The air in Spirit Hall was thick with anticipation as preparations for the final assault against the Obsidian Order neared completion. The Obsidian Core sat locked away in a protective barrier, its energy faintly pulsating like the heartbeat of a dormant beast. Every corner of Spirit Hall buzzed with activity as spirit masters, soldiers, and strategists worked tirelessly under Bibi Dong's watchful eye.
Xin Tian stood at the center of the training grounds, his body radiating divine energy. His mind was focused, replaying strategies and anticipating the challenges ahead. Though confident in his abilities, he knew the Obsidian Order would not go down without a fight.
The Council of Spirit Hall
A grand meeting was called in the hall's central chamber, attended by all high-ranking members of Spirit Hall, including the Golden Generation—Hu Liena, Xie Yue, and Yan. They were joined by Qian Daoliu and the other elders.
Bibi Dong presided over the meeting, her presence commanding as ever. She gestured toward Xin Tian, signaling him to present his findings.
Xin Tian stepped forward, his calm yet authoritative voice filling the room. "The Obsidian Core has revealed the location of the Obsidian Order's headquarters. It lies deep within the Shadow Abyss, a place filled with malevolent energy that suppresses ordinary spirit masters. Their defenses are formidable, and their leaders will undoubtedly be waiting for us."
Hu Liena frowned. "Shadow Abyss… The stories say it's a place of pure darkness, where even light is devoured. How can we ensure our forces won't be overwhelmed?"
Qian Daoliu spoke, his tone grave. "The Shadow Abyss is indeed perilous, but Xin Tian's divine aura can counteract its suppressive effects. He is the key to this mission's success."
Bibi Dong nodded. "Our forces will be divided into three units. The primary unit, led by me, will engage their main forces. The second unit, commanded by Qian Daoliu, will secure the perimeter and cut off any reinforcements. Xin Tian will lead the third unit to infiltrate the headquarters and confront their leaders directly."
All eyes turned to Xin Tian, who stood unwavering. "I accept this responsibility. The heavens will guide our path."
A Moment of Reflection
That evening, Xin Tian stood alone atop Spirit Hall's highest tower, gazing at the stars. The celestial bodies twinkled like fragments of divine will scattered across the night sky.
The system chimed softly, breaking the silence.
[System Notification]
20. Mission Update: Final Assault on the Obsidian Order
1. Primary Objective: Defeat the Obsidian Order's leaders and dismantle their organization.
2. Secondary Objective: Retrieve the Fragment of Chaos sealed within their base.
3. Rewards:
1. Divine Spirit Ring Upgrade (All Rings Elevated to God Tier).
2. New Martial Soul Ability: Eternal Balance.
Xin Tian closed his eyes, allowing the system's words to sink in. The promise of greater power was tempting, but it came with the weight of responsibility. He had to succeed—not for himself, but for the countless lives threatened by the Obsidian Order's schemes.
Allies and Preparations
Before the final march, Xin Tian took time to strengthen bonds with his allies. Hu Liena approached him during training, her expression curious.
"You're different from anyone I've ever met," she said. "So calm, so sure of yourself. Do you ever feel doubt?"
Xin Tian paused, considering her words. "Doubt is natural. It reminds us of the stakes. But I've learned that the heavens' will is unyielding. I trust in that will and in the people fighting by my side."
Hu Liena smiled faintly. "I'll take that as a reminder to trust in you."
Meanwhile, Qian Daoliu observed Xin Tian from a distance. The elder approached him later, offering advice born from decades of experience. "The Obsidian Order will use every trick they have. Don't underestimate their cunning. Remember, even gods can be deceived."
Xin Tian nodded. "I'll stay vigilant. Thank you for your guidance, elder."
The March to Shadow Abyss
The day of the assault arrived. Thousands of Spirit Hall's finest warriors gathered outside the grand hall, their banners fluttering in the wind. Bibi Dong addressed them, her voice resonating with authority.
"Today, we strike at the heart of darkness. The Obsidian Order has threatened the balance of this world for too long. Under the heavens' gaze, we will bring them to justice!"
Cheers erupted from the crowd as the army began its march. Xin Tian walked at the head of his unit, his divine aura shining like a beacon of hope.
The journey to the Shadow Abyss was arduous. The terrain grew more treacherous as they neared their destination, and the oppressive energy of the abyss began to weigh on the weaker spirit masters. Xin Tian activated Divine Convergence, his radiant light dispelling the darkness and bolstering his allies' morale.
A Dire Revelation
As they reached the edge of the Shadow Abyss, Xin Tian's system issued an urgent warning:
[System Notification]
21. Danger Detected: Chaos Fragment Activation Imminent.
1. Description: The Obsidian Order is attempting to awaken a primordial force of destruction. Immediate action required.
Xin Tian relayed the information to Bibi Dong and Qian Daoliu. The elder's expression darkened. "If they succeed in awakening the Chaos Fragment, it could destabilize the entire continent. We must act swiftly."
Bibi Dong's eyes gleamed with determination. "We'll proceed as planned. Xin Tian, the success of this mission depends on you. Stop them at all costs."
Xin Tian bowed slightly. "I won't fail."
The Descent
The army descended into the Shadow Abyss, the oppressive energy growing stronger with each step. Dark shadows moved in the periphery, their malevolent presence a constant reminder of the danger ahead.
As Xin Tian led his unit deeper into the abyss, he felt a surge of divine energy coursing through him. His martial souls resonated, their combined power forming a protective barrier around his allies.
The heavens seemed to be watching, their silent gaze urging him onward.
End of Chapter 11