Xu Tian sat in deep meditation, feeling a surge of excitement course through his veins as the essence of the Eternal Soul Mantra unfolded within his mind, imparted by the enigmatic broken black pearl. "This is incredible! Finally, a breakthrough!" he thought, his heart racing with newfound hope and a sense of childlike wonder.

The mantra provided an elaborate roadmap for soul cultivation, meticulously detailing stages of Spirit Essence Gathering and the formation of a 13-layer soul flame. "This isn't just cultivation; it's an art form," Xu Tian marveled, the complexity and potential of the technique igniting his enthusiasm. Each layer required careful nurturing and precise integration of spirit essence. "Hmm, this is going to be tricky, but it feels... right."

In awe, Xu Tian absorbed the immense potential and inherent dangers of this cultivation path. The mantra described transforming the soul into a flame-like form, advancing from a mere spark to a potent, multi-layered flame. "The soul flame must be nurtured like a delicate plant," he understood, visualizing the delicate stages of its growth. The teachings emphasized the importance of protecting the flame during its initial, fragile stages to avoid severe setbacks.

The Eternal Soul Mantra also warned of the Dao Flame Tribulation that occurs upon reaching the full circle stage, a critical and perilous test for any cultivator. "The tribulation will be a real test," Xu Tian acknowledged. The teachings included refining a Foundation Establishment Dao Pill, which could convert the tribulation's destructive force into beneficial karma. "Alchemy will play a crucial role in this journey."

Xu Tian marveled at the intricate details provided. "I must master this mantra," he vowed, feeling a mix of awe and determination. "This is my path to transcend my limitations and achieve greatness."

Emerging from meditation, Xu Tian heard Bao-er's worried voice calling his name. "Big Brother Xu, are you alright?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with concern.

Xu Tian opened his eyes and gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm fine, Bao-er. Just... got a lot of new stuff to digest," he said, patting her head gently. "Nothing to worry about."

"But you screamed... I thought you were in pain," Bao-er replied, her voice trembling slightly.

"Ah, it was just a bit... overwhelming," Xu Tian admitted, his tone calm and soothing. "Really, I'm okay."

"I'll keep watch for you, Big Brother Xu," Bao-er declared, her small frame filled with determination. "I'll make sure no one bothers you!"

Xu Tian chuckled, appreciating her earnestness. "Thanks, Bao-er," he said warmly. While he treasured her concern, he opted to keep the specifics of the Eternal Soul Mantra and the broken pearl to himself. "No need to burden her with these details," he thought.

Seeing her anxiety give way to admiration, Bao-er nodded resolutely. "No one will disturb you, I promise," she said, puffing out her chest with a serious expression.

Having such a loyal companion was invaluable. "Having you by my side means a lot," Xu Tian reflected gratefully. Giving her one last reassuring smile, he prepared to dive back into his cultivation practice. "Alright, back to work!"

Settling back into meditation, Xu Tian recited a Buddhist mantra from the Eternal Soul Mantra, focusing his mind and drawing in spirit essence. "Here we go again. Time to gather that spirit essence," he thought as the energy began to flow into him, feeling like a warm, gentle current. "Yes, this feels perfect," he inwardly celebrated, feeling invigorated.

Visualizing the flame within his soul, Xu Tian meticulously guided the spirit essence to form the first layer. "Failure is just part of the journey," he reminded himself, resonating with the mantra's teachings. Several failed attempts did little to dampen his enthusiasm; instead, each setback sharpened his focus. "Come on, Xu Tian! You can do it!"

Every failure taught him more about manipulating spirit essence. "Patience and persistence," he echoed internally, remembering the mantra's guidance. Finally, after relentless effort, he succeeded, forming the first layer flame—a small but bright flicker within his soul. "Yes! I did it!" he breathed, feeling the warmth spread throughout his being.

The first layer flame felt alive, its energy filling him with a sense of completeness and purpose. "This is just the beginning," he realized, excitement and determination bubbling within him. The successful formation of the first layer brought intense clarity and connection to the elemental laws around him.

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With the first layer flame established, Xu Tian was ready to practice advanced techniques of the Eternal Soul Mantra. He could feel the burgeoning power of the Soul Flame technique within him, appreciating its potential for both alchemy and combat. Conjuring a small, white flame in his hands, he marveled at its purity and control. "This flame... it's extraordinary."

Xu Tian experimented with controlling the flame, making it dance and flicker in response to his thoughts. "It's like the flame is an extension of my will," he noted, sensing the deep connection between the soul flame and his spiritual state.

The mantra detailed other techniques he could master, such as Spirit Ward and Mind's Eye. "I'm just scratching the surface," he thought in wonder. "There's so much more to learn."

With renewed determination, Xu Tian immersed himself deeper into the cultivation. Each practice session left him with a deeper understanding of the flame's responsive nature. He experimented with controlling the flame's size and intensity, trying to make it sustain a consistent form. "It's like coaxing a temperamental child," he thought with wry amusement, "but I can see the progress."

Xu Tian spent hours meticulously honing his control over the flame, noticing how its qualities evolved with subtle adjustments in his thoughts and emotions. The connection between his inner state and the flame's behavior became increasingly evident. "This isn't just about power," he realized, "it's about harmony."

Xu Tian opened his eyes to find Bao-er asleep nearby, her small hand clutching his sleeve tightly. Smiling warmly, Xu Tian felt deeply touched by her unwavering loyalty. "She's so dedicated," he thought, a grateful warmth spreading through him.

Seeing Bao-er sleep so peacefully brought a sense of normalcy and comfort. "In this chaotic journey of mine, she's my constant anchor," he mused, gently covering her with a blanket to keep her warm and comfortable.

Deciding to take a break himself, Xu Tian allowed his body to rest. "I need to regain my strength," he thought, feeling the physical and mental fatigue from his intense cultivation efforts. Reflecting on his progress, he felt a swell of pride and hope. "I'm on the right track. Things are finally looking up."

The bond he shared with Bao-er strengthened his resolve. "I must succeed, not just for myself, but for her too," he vowed silently. Lying down, Xu Tian closed his eyes, surrendering to the pull of sleep. "Tomorrow is another step forward."

As he slept, dreams of future achievements and lofty heights filled his mind. The night passed peacefully, allowing both Xu Tian and Bao-er to rest and recover their energies. He envisioned a future where his mastery over the Eternal Soul Mantra would unlock realms of possibilities, not just for him but for everyone he cared about.

From the shadows, the late-stage qi cultivator sent by Xu Ming diligently observed Xu Tian. "The kid's making significant progress," the protector noted, impressed by Xu Tian's advancement. He puzzled over the young man's alternating screams, joyful exclamations, and sudden meditations. "What exactly is he experiencing?"

Xu Tian's conjuring of a white flame in his hands intrigued and baffled the protector. "What kind of technique is that?" he wondered, unfamiliar with the nuances of soul cultivation. Even as curiosity nibbled at him, the protector remained vigilant, ensuring Xu Tian's safety.

Seeing Bao-er's dedication and unwavering loyalty, the protector couldn't help but be impressed. "She's incredibly brave and loyal," he thought, admiring her courage and determination despite her young age and lack of cultivation.

The protector considered Xu Tian's unique path and its potential impact on the Xu clan's future. "This could change everything," he mused. Resolving to continue his watchful protection, the guardian prepared to intervene if needed. "His journey has just begun."

The protector, though unseen, followed Xu Tian's every move. He admired the young man's resilience and the purity of his intentions. "Perhaps this journey will shape him into the leader the Xu clan needs," he mused, settling back into his vigilant watch.

Back at the Xu clan headquarters, the first elder discussed Xu Tian's unusual departure with a shadowy figure. "It's odd, Xu Tian leaving alone like that," he murmured, suspicion evident in his tone.

The elder's displeasure and resentment were palpable as he spoke. "Especially since the patriarch punished my son with ten lashes because of Xu Tian," he spat, seething with bitterness. He saw eliminating Xu Tian as a way to undermine the patriarch and restore his own power within the clan.

"You know your mission," the elder hissed, narrowing his eyes at the shadowy figure. "I want him gone."

The shadowy figure, an assassin at the initial Foundation Establishment stage, nodded and disappeared into the night, intent on completing his deadly task. "Xu Tian's days are numbered," the elder muttered to himself, his voice dripping with malice.

The elder watched the assassin leave, satisfaction and anticipation growing within him. "Soon, my influence will be restored," he thought, fantasizing about a future free from the threat Xu Tian posed. His schemes set into motion a series of events that would test Xu Tian's strength and resolve like never before.

The elder's mind raced with thoughts of the coming power shift. "With Xu Tian out of the way, the patriarch's influence will falter," he planned, envisioning his rise to dominance. "This is my chance to claim what's rightfully mine."

As the night deepened, the first elder felt a twisted sense of gratification. "Success is within reach," he mused, his eyes gleaming with ambition.