Chapter 6: The Awakening of Divine Power
The night outside the Celestial Temple was calm, yet Lin Tian's aura was anything but. His body pulsed with divine energy as he absorbed the Celestial Core, feeling his soul and martial spirits strengthen in unimaginable ways. Yue'er stood by his side, her hand gripping her sword, ever watchful.
"Master, are you alright?" Yue'er asked softly, concern evident in her voice.
Lin Tian opened his eyes, which now gleamed with a faint golden light. A small smile formed on his lips. "I'm more than alright. The Celestial Core has granted me the power I need to face the challenges ahead."
He raised his hand, and a faint, shimmering aura surrounded him. The system's voice echoed in his mind:
"New abilities unlocked: Celestial Spirit Armor and Divine Perception. These will assist you in battles against stronger enemies."
Lin Tian clenched his fist, the newfound energy coursing through his veins. "Let's return to Shrek Academy. Our journey is far from over."
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A New Enemy in the Shadows
As they descended the mountain, Yue'er's sharp instincts caught something amiss. "Master, we're being followed," she whispered, her tone serious.
Lin Tian stopped, closing his eyes to focus on his Divine Perception. His enhanced senses immediately detected three figures hiding in the shadows of the trees ahead.
"Come out," Lin Tian commanded, his voice calm yet firm.
The figures stepped forward, revealing themselves to be rogue soul masters. Each carried an air of danger, their soul rings glowing ominously in the dim light.
"You're Lin Tian, aren't you?" the leader sneered. He had five soul rings—two yellow, two purple, and one black. "Word of your exploits has spread far. Hand over that power you just gained, and we might let you leave alive."
Lin Tian's eyes narrowed. "You think you can take what's mine? You're welcome to try."
The rogue soul masters attacked simultaneously, their martial spirits unleashing a barrage of elemental and physical strikes.
Lin Tian activated his Celestial Spirit Armor, a radiant, translucent barrier that absorbed the initial onslaught. With a swift motion, he countered with Thunder Strike, lightning arcs branching out and stunning two of his attackers.
Yue'er joined the fray, her blade a blur as she danced around the battlefield. She struck with precision, forcing the third enemy to retreat.
"You're stronger than I thought," the leader growled, activating his ultimate skill—a massive Shadow Serpent that lunged toward Lin Tian.
But Lin Tian stood his ground. Using his Starfire Domain, he conjured a fiery vortex that incinerated the serpent mid-air. Before the leader could recover, Lin Tian closed the distance and unleashed a powerful slash with his Divine Celestial Sword, ending the fight.
The remaining rogues fled, leaving their leader incapacitated on the ground.
"Spare me!" the rogue begged, his arrogance shattered.
Lin Tian sheathed his sword, his expression cold. "Consider this mercy a warning. Cross me again, and you won't walk away."
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A Hero's Return
By the time Lin Tian and Yue'er returned to Shrek Academy, news of their journey to the Celestial Temple had already spread. The students and teachers alike greeted them with a mix of awe and curiosity.
Ning Rongrong ran up to him, her face lighting up. "You're back! And you look… different."
Lin Tian smiled faintly. "Let's just say the trip was productive."
Flender, the headmaster, approached with a serious expression. "Lin Tian, we've heard rumors about your clash with rogue soul masters. Is everything under control?"
"Everything is fine," Lin Tian replied. "But it's clear that my presence is attracting attention. We need to prepare for what's to come."
Flender nodded, his respect for Lin Tian growing. "Shrek Academy will stand with you. Your growth is vital not just for yourself, but for everyone here."
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A Bond Deepens
That evening, Yue'er prepared tea for Lin Tian in his dormitory. She watched him silently as he meditated, his aura radiating tranquility.
"Master," she began hesitantly, "I'm grateful to have accompanied you on this journey. Seeing your strength and resolve has only deepened my loyalty to you."
Lin Tian opened his eyes, meeting her gaze. "Yue'er, you've been more than just a protector. Your unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my growth. I trust you completely."
Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she quickly bowed to hide her expression. "Your words mean everything to me, Master."
The air between them grew warm with unspoken emotions, but before either could say more, a knock at the door interrupted them.
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The Next Challenge
It was Zhu Zhuqing, her expression serious. "Lin Tian, Flender wants to see you. He mentioned something about a tournament."
Lin Tian stood, curiosity piqued. "A tournament? This should be interesting."
As he followed Zhu Zhuqing to the main hall, Yue'er silently vowed to protect him at all costs. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she would face them by his side.
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To Be Continued...