Eternal charm: The Rise of a Divine Hero from Douluo

The moon hung high in the sky, casting a pale glow over Shrek Academy. Lin Tian stood on the balcony of his dormitory, his thoughts heavy. The battle with the Starfire Dragon and the newfound power of his Starfire Domain filled him with both pride and responsibility. He knew the path ahead would only grow more challenging.

Behind him, Yue'er silently approached. Her presence was calm yet protective, always a comforting constant. "Master," she began softly, "you've been staring at the stars for hours. Is something troubling you?"

Lin Tian turned, a faint smile on his face. "Just thinking. Every step forward brings me closer to my goals, but it also draws more attention. There will be challenges, Yue'er—stronger enemies, greater stakes. I have to be ready."

Yue'er's gaze softened. "You're not alone in this, Master. Your strength inspires those around you, and we will always stand by your side."

Lin Tian nodded, her words a reminder of the bonds he was forming. But deep down, he knew some battles would have to be fought alone.

---

An Unexpected Visitor

The next morning, Lin Tian's routine was interrupted by a commotion near the academy gates. Curious, he joined the gathering crowd, where a luxurious carriage adorned with the emblem of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan had arrived.

From within stepped a regal figure—Ning Fengzhi, the clan master himself, accompanied by a towering warrior exuding immense power: Sword Douluo Chen Xin. Their presence commanded respect, and even the instructors of Shrek Academy hurried to greet them.

Ning Fengzhi's gaze swept over the crowd before settling on Lin Tian. "So, this is the young prodigy I've heard so much about," he said, his tone measured but curious.

Lin Tian stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Clan Master Ning, it's an honor to meet you."

Ning Fengzhi smiled faintly. "The honor is mine. Your exploits in the trials and your handling of the Starfire Crystal have already reached my ears. I came to see for myself if the rumors were true."

Sword Douluo Chen Xin, who had remained silent, studied Lin Tian intently. His sharp eyes seemed to pierce through Lin Tian's very soul, as if weighing his worth. Finally, he nodded. "The boy has potential. His aura is... unique."

Ning Fengzhi chuckled. "High praise from Sword Douluo. Lin Tian, I would like to extend an invitation for you to visit the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan. I believe there is much we can learn from each other."

Lin Tian's expression remained calm, though inwardly he recognized the significance of such an offer. "I'm grateful for your invitation, Clan Master Ning. I will consider it carefully."

As the carriage departed, whispers broke out among the students. Lin Tian's connections and rising reputation were now undeniable.

---

A Rival Emerges

Later that day, as Lin Tian trained with Yue'er, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing, a new figure entered the training grounds. He was tall and imposing, with short silver hair and piercing blue eyes. His presence immediately drew attention.

"I've heard about the so-called prodigy, Lin Tian," the newcomer said, his voice cold. "I am Bai Yu, a direct disciple of the Star Luo Empire's royal family. I challenge you to a duel."

Lin Tian glanced at him, unfazed. "A duel? And what do you hope to gain from this?"

Bai Yu smirked. "I want to see if the rumors about you are true—or if you're just another overhyped soul master. Let's make it interesting. If I win, you'll concede your spot in the academy's team for the tournament."

Ning Rongrong frowned. "Who does he think he is? Lin Tian, you don't have to accept this."

Lin Tian held up a hand, silencing her. "I accept. But if I win, you'll acknowledge my strength and stay out of my way."

The crowd quickly gathered at the sparring grounds, eager to witness the clash.

---

The Duel

Bai Yu's martial spirit was revealed to be the Silver Wolf, a ferocious and agile beast known for its speed and sharp attacks. His soul rings—two yellow and one purple—glowed brightly, a testament to his strength.

Lin Tian activated his Divine Celestial Sword, its golden blade humming with energy. His three rings—two yellow and one purple—shone in response, matching Bai Yu's aura.

The duel began with Bai Yu launching himself at Lin Tian, his claws glowing with silver light. His speed was remarkable, but Lin Tian's reflexes were sharper. He parried the attack with ease, countering with a quick slash of his sword.

Bai Yu dodged, a smirk on his face. "Not bad. But let's see how you handle this."

He activated his second soul skill, Silver Fang Strike, unleashing a flurry of razor-sharp energy waves. Lin Tian responded by summoning his Frost Barrier, the icy shield absorbing the onslaught.

"Is that all you've got?" Lin Tian taunted, his tone calm.

Angered, Bai Yu activated his third soul skill, Wolf's Frenzy, increasing his speed and power exponentially. He became a blur, striking from multiple angles.

But Lin Tian remained composed. Drawing on the power of his Crimson Flame Phoenix, he unleashed a fiery explosion, forcing Bai Yu to retreat. Before Bai Yu could recover, Lin Tian combined his Thunder Strike and Starfire Domain, creating a devastating beam of energy that struck Bai Yu squarely, sending him crashing to the ground.

The arena fell silent as the dust settled. Bai Yu struggled to stand but eventually lowered his head. "I concede. You're stronger than I thought."

The crowd erupted into cheers, Lin Tian's dominance once again proven.

---

A New Mission

As the day ended, Lin Tian returned to his dormitory, where the system's voice echoed in his mind.

"New mission unlocked: Investigate the Ruins of the Celestial Temple. Objective: Retrieve the Celestial Core and uncover the secrets of an ancient god. Reward: Celestial Spirit Armor and insight into divine powers."

Lin Tian's eyes gleamed with determination. The path to divinity was becoming clearer, and he was ready to take the next step.

"Yue'er," he said, turning to his loyal maid. "Prepare for our next journey. We're heading to the Celestial Temple."

Yue'er bowed. "As you wish, Master. I'll ensure everything is ready."

As Lin Tian gazed out the window, the moonlight illuminating his figure, he couldn't help but feel the weight of destiny on his shoulders. But he welcomed it. This was only the beginning.

To Be Continued...