Chapter 1: Chapter 1: The Awakening of Destiny
The world was dark, an endless void filled with silence, until Lin Tian's consciousness began to stir. Slowly, his mind awakened, bringing with it a flood of questions. Where was he? How had he gotten here?
He remembered fragments—a world where he worked tirelessly, a mundane life filled with stress and monotony. Then came the accident, a blinding light, and now this.
A voice, cold and mechanical, echoed in the emptiness.
"Welcome, Host, to the Eternal Sovereign System. You have been chosen to embark on a journey of unparalleled power and destiny."
Lin Tian froze. His heart raced as the words settled in. "Eternal Sovereign System? What is this? Where am I?"
The voice continued, ignoring his questions.
"You have been transmigrated into the world of Douluo Dalu, a realm of martial spirits and soul power. As the system's host, you will rise to become this world's most powerful existence. To ensure your success, the system will guide you and provide all necessary resources."
Lin Tian's confusion gave way to excitement. Douluo Dalu—a fictional world he had loved, filled with soul masters, epic battles, and intricate politics. He had fantasized about living in such a world, and now it was real.
"Initial benefits are being distributed. Prepare for awakening."
Before Lin Tian could process the words, his body was engulfed in a warm, golden light. A surge of energy coursed through him, filling him with strength and vitality.
"Congratulations, Host! You have been granted: Soul Power Level 20."
His eyes widened. Soul Power Level 20 meant he was already a rank-20 Spirit Grandmaster—a feat unheard of for someone his age. The system wasn't done yet.
"Next reward: Martial Spirit Awakening. Transferring Host to Awakening Ceremony."
---
The darkness melted away, replaced by a grand ceremonial hall. The air crackled with energy, and before him stood a towering crystal orb, pulsating with a faint light. A figure materialized, robed in white, their face obscured.
"Step forward, young one," the figure intoned. "Place your hand on the orb and awaken your martial spirit."
Lin Tian hesitated for only a moment before stepping forward. His hand trembled as he touched the orb's cold surface. A brilliant light erupted, and the hall was filled with a majestic aura.
Two forms materialized behind him. One was a radiant, golden sword, exuding an air of divine authority. The other was a blazing crimson phoenix, its fiery wings spreading wide.
The figure's voice wavered with awe. "Twin martial spirits… The Divine Celestial Sword and the Crimson Flame Phoenix. Such power is unprecedented."
The system chimed in.
"Congratulations, Host! You have awakened two top-tier martial spirits. These spirits possess unlimited growth potential and will be your greatest assets."
Lin Tian felt the weight of the moment. Twin martial spirits were an anomaly, and his were nothing short of legendary.
"To aid your journey, you will now receive your first soul ring: a 10,000-year Dark Thunder Wolf ring. Absorbing it will grant you the skill: Thunder Strike."
A black soul ring materialized before him, its energy pulsating with a dangerous aura. Lin Tian instinctively reached out, and the ring fused with his Divine Celestial Sword. Pain shot through his body as the energy integrated, but he endured, gritting his teeth.
Moments later, the pain subsided, replaced by a sense of overwhelming power. He raised his hand, and a bolt of crackling lightning shot forth, leaving a deep scorch mark on the ground.
"This… this is incredible," Lin Tian whispered, his voice filled with wonder.
"Martial Spirit Awakening complete. Host's identity established as Lin Tian, a prodigy orphan from a small village. The journey begins now."
---
Life in the Village
Lin Tian found himself standing in a bustling village square. The system had seamlessly integrated him into this world, providing him with a backstory as an orphan raised by the village elder.
Over the next few weeks, Lin Tian adapted to his new life. The villagers were kind, though they viewed him with a mix of awe and curiosity. His innate talent and newfound powers quickly became the talk of the village.
Under the system's guidance, Lin Tian honed his skills, mastering Thunder Strike and improving his combat techniques. He hunted spirit beasts in the nearby forest, completing system-assigned missions that rewarded him with valuable items and experience.
One day, the system presented a new mission.
"Mission: Enroll in Shrek Academy. Reward: 10,000-year Frost Tiger Soul Ring and Frost Barrier skill."
Shrek Academy—the most prestigious institution for soul masters. Lin Tian had read about it in the novel. This was the first major step in his journey.
---
The Journey Begins
With the villagers' blessings, Lin Tian set off for Shrek Academy. The road was long and fraught with danger, but the system's missions and rewards made it manageable. Along the way, he encountered rogue spirit beasts and bandits, each fight sharpening his skills and building his confidence.
One evening, as he rested by a campfire, the system surprised him with an announcement.
"Companion acquired: Yue'er. A loyal maid with unparalleled combat skills has been assigned to protect you."
Lin Tian looked up, startled, as a figure emerged from the shadows. Yue'er was breathtakingly beautiful, her silvery-white hair shimmering in the firelight and her violet eyes filled with determination. She knelt before him, her voice soft but resolute.
"Master, I am Yue'er. I have been sent to serve and protect you."
Lin Tian blinked, unsure how to respond. "Master? That's not necessary. Just call me Lin Tian."
Yue'er hesitated, then nodded. "As you wish, Lin Tian."
Though she was reserved, Yue'er proved to be an invaluable ally. Her combat prowess and strategic mind saved Lin Tian from several dangerous encounters, and her quiet devotion gradually earned his trust and admiration.
---
Arrival at Shrek Academy
By the time Lin Tian reached Shrek Academy, he was already a formidable presence. With his twin martial spirits and two 10,000-year soul rings, he was far beyond the average applicant.
The entrance exams tested his strength, intelligence, and adaptability. Lin Tian passed each trial with ease, his performance leaving the instructors speechless. Fellow applicants, including Huo Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing, couldn't hide their admiration.
As Lin Tian settled into life at the academy, he quickly rose to prominence. His charisma and natural leadership earned him the respect of his peers, while his strength and determination impressed the instructors.
Yet, Lin Tian knew this was only the beginning. The system's missions grew increasingly challenging, pushing him to strive for greater heights. With Yue'er by his side and his ambition driving him forward, Lin Tian vowed to become the strongest soul master this world had ever seen.
To Be Continued...