บท 33: First fight with spirit beast
As Feng Xuan ventured deeper into the dense forest, he remained vigilant, each step deliberate and cautious. The shadows of towering trees danced around him, casting an eerie ambiance. Suddenly, a rustling sound nearby broke the stillness, and Feng Xuan instinctively readied his bow, his senses on high alert.
Emerging from the underbrush was a fierce-looking spirit beast, a Serpent-Tailed Fox with gleaming eyes and sleek fur. Feng Xuan quickly assessed the creature—it was likely around 100 to 200 years old, not the Phantom Hawk he sought, but a formidable opponent nonetheless.
The fox let out a low growl, its tail whipping through the air as it prepared to pounce. Feng Xuan tightened his grip on his bow, drawing an arrow and taking a deep breath to steady himself. He recalled Shivarjuna's teachings on aiming and concentration, his mind focused and clear.
The fox lunged forward with surprising speed, its fangs bared. Feng Xuan released his arrow, the projectile slicing through the air with precision. The arrow struck the fox in its shoulder, causing it to stumble but not stopping its advance. Feng Xuan quickly nocked another arrow, his movement's fluid and practiced.
As the fox closed the distance, Feng Xuan sidestepped gracefully, drawing his bow to its full length. He released another arrow, this time aiming for the fox's legs. The arrow found its mark, and the fox yelped in pain, its movements becoming erratic.
Seizing the opportunity, Feng Xuan drew a third arrow, his focus unwavering. He aimed for the fox's chest, where its heart lay. The arrow flew true, piercing the fox and bringing it down. The beast let out a final, anguished cry before collapsing to the ground, its body twitching before going still.
Feng Xuan stood over the fallen beast, his breathing heavy but controlled. He felt a mix of relief and satisfaction, knowing that his training had paid off. He silently thanked Shivarjuna for the guidance and wisdom that had enabled him to handle the encounter with skill and precision.
After a moment of contemplation, Feng Xuan knelt beside the fox, studying it carefully. Although it was not the spirit ring he sought, the battle had been a valuable test of his abilities. He knew that more challenges awaited him, and each one would bring him closer to his ultimate goal.
Rising to his feet, Feng Xuan took a deep breath and continued his journey. The encounter with the Serpent-Tailed Fox had only strengthened his resolve. With each step, he moved deeper into the forest, determined to find the Phantom Hawk and claim the spirit ring that would unlock his true potential.
Feng Xuan's search for the elusive Phantom Hawk proved to be more challenging than he had anticipated. The forest seemed endless, and the dense foliage made tracking the spirit beast difficult. He pressed on, running through the forest for two days without rest. His determination was unwavering, but the toll on his body was becoming apparent.
Unbeknownst to Feng Xuan, Shivarjuna's presence within his second martial soul space was more than just a guiding force. Shivarjuna's yogic energy circulation created an aura around Feng Xuan that subtly repelled higher-level spirit beasts, allowing him to move through the forest without encountering threats beyond his current capability. This unintentional protection had kept him safe, though Feng Xuan was unaware of it.
On the third morning, as the first rays of sunlight pierced through the canopy, Feng Xuan paused by a clear stream to drink and collect his thoughts. The tranquil setting offered a brief respite from his relentless pursuit. As he knelt by the water, he felt a gentle yet powerful presence emanating from within.
"Master Shivarjuna, I've been searching for days without success. I fear I'm not making any progress," Feng Xuan thought, seeking his mentor's wisdom.
Shivarjuna's calm voice resonated in Feng Xuan's mind, reassuring him. "Feng Xuan, your perseverance is commendable. Trust in your instincts and the skills you've honed. Sometimes, the journey itself provides the answers you seek."
As Feng Xuan pondered these words, he noticed subtle signs around the stream—scattered feathers and claw marks on a nearby tree. His heart quickened. These could be indications of the Phantom Hawk's presence. Renewed with a sense of purpose, Feng Xuan resumed his search, this time more attuned to his surroundings.
For the next several hours, Feng Xuan moved with heightened awareness, following the trail of clues. The forest seemed to grow quieter, the air charged with anticipation. His keen eyes caught sight of a massive shadow gliding through the trees—a Phantom Hawk, its age an impressive 830 years. His heart quickened with both excitement and apprehension. This was the moment he had trained for, but he knew the battle ahead would be no easy feat.
Drawing upon every ounce of his training, Feng Xuan readied his bow and squared his stance. The Phantom Hawk swooped down with startling speed, talons slicing through the air. Feng Xuan dodged narrowly, feeling a rush of wind as the hawk's claws grazed his arm, leaving a deep gash.
Undeterred, Feng Xuan countered with a flurry of arrows, each aimed with precision at the hawk's vulnerable points. The beast fought back fiercely, its movements a blur of agility and power. Feng Xuan's focus intensified as he danced around the hawk, evading its attacks and striking whenever an opening presented itself.
The battle raged on, each moment testing Feng Xuan's skill and endurance. Despite his wounds, he refused to yield, drawing strength from his determination to overcome this formidable opponent. With a final, decisive shot, Feng Xuan's arrow found its mark, piercing the Phantom Hawk's heart.
After the intense battle with the 830-year-old Phantom Hawk, Feng Xuan knelt beside the majestic bird, its once vibrant plumage now still. The spirit ring, glowing a vibrant yellow, hovered above the hawk's body, pulsating with ancient energy. Feng Xuan's heart raced with a mix of excitement and reverence as he prepared to consume it—a crucial step in his journey as a spirit master.
Beside him, Shivarjuna's presence in his second martial soul space provided a calming influence, guiding him through the intricate process of spirit ring absorption.
Shivarjuna's voice echoed in Feng Xuan's mind, steady and reassuring. "Focus your inner energy, Feng Xuan. Harmonize your spirit with the essence of the spirit ring. Allow it to flow through you."
Taking a deep breath, Feng Xuan closed his eyes and centred his thoughts. He extended a hand towards the yellow glow hovering above the hawk's body, feeling a tingling sensation as he made contact with the spiritual energy radiating from the ring.
With Shivarjuna's guidance, Feng Xuan began to draw the energy of the spirit ring into himself. He visualized a connection forming, a gentle merging of his own spiritual essence with that of the Phantom Hawk's ancient wisdom and strength. The process was gradual yet powerful, each moment deepening his bond with the spirit ring.
As the absorption continued, Feng Xuan felt a surge of vitality coursing through his veins. The yellow light intensified briefly, enveloping him in a warm embrace of spiritual energy. Images flashed before his closed eyes—memories and insights from the Phantom Hawk's long life, its knowledge and experiences now becoming a part of him.
Shivarjuna's voice offered gentle encouragement throughout, guiding Feng Xuan through any moments of resistance or imbalance. Together, master and disciple navigated the intricate dance of spirit absorption, ensuring that Feng Xuan could harness the full potential of the yellow spirit ring without overwhelming his own spiritual core.
Hour passed, though to Feng Xuan, it felt like an eternity of profound connection and transformation. Finally, as the last traces of energy flowed into him, the glow of the spirit ring subsided, leaving him with a sense of profound accomplishment and newfound strength.
Opening his eyes, Feng Xuan rose slowly, feeling the tangible effects of the spirit ring's power coursing through him. He turned to Shivarjuna, a deep gratitude reflected in his gaze. "Thank you, Master Shivarjuna," he said softly. "I couldn't have done it without your guidance."
Shivarjuna nodded, his expression serene yet proud. "You have done well, Feng Xuan. This is just the beginning of your journey. Embrace the power you have gained and continue to grow."
With the spirit ring integrated into his martial soul, Feng Xuan knew he had crossed a significant threshold in his path as a spirit master.
Shivarjuna spoke first, his voice calm and resonant within the spiritual realm. "Feng Xuan, you have integrated the Phantom Hawk's spirit ring successfully. Now, it is time to use your first spirit skill. This skill will be a testament to your mastery and a reflection of your bond with the Bow Vijaya."
Feng Xuan nodded, his thoughts focused on the training and insights gained from his recent battles and absorption. "Master Shivarjuna, how should I use my first spirit skill? How will it manifest?"
Shivarjuna's eyes twinkled with ancient wisdom as he replied, "Your first spirit skill, derived from the Phantom Hawk's essence, will enhance your archery prowess. It will grant you heightened accuracy and speed in releasing arrows, aligning perfectly with your martial soul's affinity for the bow."
Feng Xuan absorbed this information, his excitement growing. "And my current soul power, Master? How does it compare now that I've absorbed the yellow spirit ring?"
Shivarjuna assessed him thoughtfully before responding. "Your soul power has grown significantly, Feng Xuan. The Phantom Hawk's essence has infused you with additional spiritual energy and resilience. You are now better equipped to face stronger adversaries and delve deeper into your martial soul's potential."
Feng Xuan nodded again, a sense of gratitude washing over him. "Thank you, Master Shivarjuna. I will strive to honor the teachings you have imparted and wield this new skill with diligence and honor."
Shivarjuna placed a reassuring hand on Feng Xuan's shoulder. "Remember, Feng Xuan, mastery is not just about strength but also about balance and understanding. Trust in your instincts and continue to cultivate your skills. Your journey as a spirit master has only just begun."
With renewed determination, Feng Xuan bowed respectfully to his mentor before returning to his physical body, ready to embark on the next phase of his training and exploration of his newfound abilities.
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