Chapter 29: Encounter with Zhao Duan

After hours of intense explanation, Instructor Xiao finally paused, taking a moment to assess his students. The Soul Manifestation classroom buzzed with anticipation as the air hummed with the mysteries of the cultivation technique. The students exchanged glances, each trying to hide their confusion behind a mask of understanding.

"Now, I hope you've all grasped the fundamental theory behind Soul Manifestation," Instructor Xiao proclaimed, his voice resonating through the room. Every student nodded in approval, concealing the truth that the intricate concepts had flown over their heads. Determined to keep up appearances, they flashed confident smiles and hoped their peers wouldn't see through the facade.

Instructor Xiao wiped the beads of sweat from his forehead, his eyes gleaming with excitement. He had dedicated his life to Soul Manifestation cultivation, and now it was time to guide his students onto the same path. "Since you all have a solid grasp of the theory," he continued, "it's now time for you to experience the practical skills behind it."

A collective murmur of anticipation rippled through the classroom. The students leaned forward, eager to embark on this practical journey. It was a chance to bridge the gap between theory and reality, to witness the enigmatic phenomenon of Soul Manifestation firsthand.

With a commanding presence, Instructor Xiao beckoned his students to follow him. The Soul Manifestation class of all years assembled in a determined march, a diverse group of aspiring cultivators. Hall Master Liu Mei, known for her wisdom and strength, had also been invited to accompany them. Her mere presence instilled a sense of reassurance and trust.

The group ventured deep into the Eternal Dark Forest, where the ancient trees stood tall and imposing. The air grew heavy with an otherworldly energy, casting a veil of mystery over their surroundings. Rays of sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, creating pockets of light that danced on the forest floor.

Instructor Xiao led the way, his steps purposeful and sure. His experience as a cultivator shone through his calm demeanor, and the students couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence as they followed his lead. They trekked deeper into the forest, anticipation and excitement coursing through their veins.

Finally, they arrived at a small clearing nestled amidst the ancient trees. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of nervousness and exhilaration. It was here, in this sacred space, that they would witness the true essence of Soul Manifestation.

"In Soul Manifestation cultivation, the acquisition of beast souls is crucial," Instructor Xiao explained, his voice carrying a hint of awe. "Today, we stand on the precipice of witnessing the devouring of a beast soul." Gasps of anticipation echoed through the clearing as the students leaned in, their eyes wide with curiosity.

A brave student raised their hand, eager to grasp the full scope of the experience. "Sir, who among us will undergo the breakthrough to the Qi Condensation Stage?" The question hung in the air, anticipation building as they waited for Instructor Xiao's response.

Instructor Xiao's face softened, his eyes brimming with wisdom. "A valid question," he acknowledged, "but today, it is not one of you who will achieve that breakthrough. It is I who shall ascend to the Core Formation Stage." Gasps of astonishment erupted from the students. The Core Formation Stage was a realm of cultivation that many dreamed of but rarely achieved. The realization that their instructor was on the cusp of such a profound accomplishment filled them with a newfound respect.

Eager to move forward, Instructor Xiao clapped his hands, drawing everyone's attention. "But let us not dwell on my personal journey today," he declared. "Instead, let us focus on the grandeur of this moment and the lessons that await us. We shall venture deeper into the forest, in search of a second-tier beast. With Hall Master Liu Mei by our side, we need not fear. She will ensure our safety, and together, we shall witness the wonders of Soul Manifestation."

The students exchanged glances, their apprehension tempered by the reassuring presence of Hall Master Liu Mei. Her gentle smile and aura of strength calmed their racing hearts, replacing their concerns with a renewed sense of determination.

Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

With each step, the forest grew denser, the air crackling with primal energy. The students felt a tingling sensation, an invisible thread connecting them to the mysteries of the forest. The hunt for the second-tier beast had begun, and the path to Soul Manifestation beckoned them forward, full of promise and adventure.

As the students pressed forward, the forest came alive with the presence of first-tier beasts. One by one, the ferocious creatures lunged at the group, their fangs bared and claws ready to strike. However, before any harm could befall the students, Hall Master Liu Mei stepped forward with grace and power.

With a single swift motion, she unleashed a devastating attack, obliterating the first-tier beasts effortlessly. The students gasped in awe, their eyes widening at the display of strength from a golden core cultivator. The power radiating from Hall Master Liu Mei was both inspiring and humbling, solidifying her reputation as a formidable cultivator.

Amidst the chaos of battle, a seemingly average-looking student approached Tang Jian, introducing himself as Zhao Duan. His sincere smile and friendly demeanor caught Tang Jian off guard, prompting him to question how Zhao Duan knew his name.

Zhao Duan chuckled warmly, his eyes filled with genuine admiration. "Hello, student Tang Jian. I am Zhao Duan," he said with a sincere smile. Tang Jian looked through him and replied with a smile in return, "Greetings, student Zhao Duan. How do you know my name?"

Zhao Duan's smile widened as he chuckled a bit. "Who wouldn't know about you, student Tang Jian, after your great performance at the Trial of Spiritual Pressure?" Tang Jian's expression turned to one of surprise as he realized that his actions during the trial had garnered attention.

"I see," Tang Jian replied, regaining his composure. "Since you've reached out to me, you must have something to discuss."

Zhao Duan nodded, his smile never faltering. "Indeed, student Tang Jian. I have been observing your progress, and I believe we can benefit from each other's strengths. I have a proposition for you, if you're interested."

Curiosity flickered in Tang Jian's eyes as he leaned in, intrigued by the offer. He knew the path of cultivation was often one of alliances and shared knowledge. "Please, enlighten me, Zhao Duan. What is this proposition you speak of?"

As Zhao Duan's smile faded, his expression turned serious, capturing Tang Jian's attention. "I heard that some beast hunters found a corpse of a first-tier green viper in the forest," he revealed, his tone filled with intrigue.

A realization struck Tang Jian like a bolt of lightning, his mind racing back to his previous encounter with the green viper and the phantom boar. "I've heard about it too, student Zhao Duan," Tang Jian responded, his eyes reflecting a tinge of disappointment. "But I heard that there wasn't a core inside the green viper. Without its beast core, it holds little value for us."

A sly smile curled upon Zhao Duan's lips, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "That's true," he acknowledged, "but do you know that the green viper had just laid eggs before its demise?"

Tang Jian's eyes widened in astonishment as he absorbed this new piece of information. The value of fresh beast eggs surpassed that of a mere beast core. If a cultivator could successfully establish a connection with a beast from its infancy, it could potentially form a powerful contract. The chances of a newborn beast accepting a cultivator were the highest, akin to hitting the jackpot in the Thousand Dao Realm.

A surge of excitement coursed through Tang Jian's veins as he grasped the implications. The thought of obtaining newly born beast eggs held immense potential for his cultivation journey. It was a rare opportunity that could potentially elevate his strength to new heights.

His gaze met Zhao Duan's, a mix of curiosity and determination gleaming in his eyes. "Are you suggesting that we should search for the green viper's eggs?" Tang Jian asked, his voice filled with newfound enthusiasm.

Zhao Duan nodded, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "Exactly, student Tang Jian. By seizing this opportunity, we can unlock a valuable resource that could aid us on our cultivation path. Moreover, whoever is recognized by the newly born beast will have the chance to own it without any complaint. It's a fair chance for both of us."

Tang Jian nodded in agreement, his expression hiding his true intentions. "You're right, Zhao Duan. It's an opportunity that shouldn't be missed. Whoever the beast chooses will have a great advantage in their cultivation journey."

In reality, Tang Jian had no intention of sharing the beast egg with Zhao Duan or anyone else. He saw this as an opportunity to claim the powerful beast for himself, regardless of who the beast would recognize. His mind was set on taking the beast egg for his own cultivation progress.

As they continued their conversation, Tang Jian maintained a facade of agreement and friendship. Deep down, he plotted and schemed, devising a plan to ensure he would be the one to possess the beast egg.

Little did Zhao Duan know that Tang Jian's motivations were driven by selfish desires. Tang Jian had no intention of sharing the spoils of their quest, and he would stop at nothing to claim the beast egg as his own.

With his hidden agenda set, Tang Jian and Zhao Duan ventured further into the Eternal Dark Forest, their footsteps resonating with determination. The hunt for the green viper's eggs had become more than just a quest for Tang Jian. It had become a test of his cunning and a means to secure his own power.