NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 7: Chapter 7: The Tournament Invitation
The main hall of Shrek Academy buzzed with energy. Students and faculty gathered, their voices a mix of curiosity and excitement. Lin Tian, flanked by Yue'er and Zhu Zhuqing, entered with his usual calm demeanor, immediately commanding attention.
Flender stood at the center, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd before settling on Lin Tian. "You're here. Good. There's an important matter we need to discuss."
Beside him stood a messenger clad in the royal insignia of the Heaven Dou Empire. The man stepped forward, bowing slightly before addressing the room. "Shrek Academy has been formally invited to participate in the Continental Advanced Spirit Master Academy Elite Tournament. It is a prestigious event, showcasing the best talents from across the continent. This year, the stakes are higher than ever."
Lin Tian's gaze didn't waver as he listened. Flender continued, "This tournament isn't just about glory. The winning academy will receive resources, influence, and the favor of the empire itself. But be warned—this competition attracts the strongest academies, including the elite Blazing Academy, Tianshui Academy, and even Spirit Hall's Holy Academy."
The mention of Spirit Hall caused murmurs among the students. Lin Tian's expression remained impassive, but inside, he felt a spark of interest.
The messenger added, "The tournament begins in two months. Each academy must select seven representatives for their team. Train hard, as the challenges ahead will test your strength, strategy, and unity."
Flender nodded. "This is a chance for Shrek Academy to prove itself. Lin Tian, as our strongest student, you will lead the team."
Lin Tian inclined his head. "Understood. I'll ensure we're ready."
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Rising Tensions
After the meeting, Lin Tian returned to the training grounds, where the other potential team members awaited. The group consisted of familiar faces—Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, Oscar, Tang San, Dai Mubai, and Ma Hongjun.
As the leader, Lin Tian assessed their strengths and weaknesses. Though each possessed unique abilities, their teamwork needed refinement.
"We have two months," Lin Tian began, his voice steady. "Our goal isn't just to participate but to dominate. To do that, we need synergy. Starting tomorrow, we'll train as a unit. I'll ensure each of you is pushed to your limits."
Dai Mubai crossed his arms, his pride evident. "You may be strong, but leadership is more than power. Do you think you're ready to guide us?"
Lin Tian met his gaze calmly. "This isn't about individual egos. If you can't trust me as your leader, step aside. I won't tolerate weakness or dissent."
The tension between them was palpable, but before it could escalate, Tang San intervened. "Enough. We're a team. Let's focus on improving together."
Reluctantly, Dai Mubai nodded, though his competitive spirit burned brightly.
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The Training Begins
The next day, Lin Tian led the team into the dense forest surrounding Shrek Academy. He had devised a rigorous training regimen, combining physical endurance, tactical drills, and combat simulations.
"Today's goal is survival," Lin Tian announced. "You'll face real soul beasts, and you'll rely on each other to succeed. Yue'er and I will observe but won't interfere unless necessary."
The team ventured into the forest, their senses heightened. Before long, they encountered a group of Wind Scorpions, their agile movements and venomous stingers posing a significant threat.
Tang San took the lead, using his Blue Silver Grass to entangle the creatures, while Dai Mubai unleashed his White Tiger Martial Spirit to deliver powerful blows. Ning Rongrong enhanced their abilities with her support, and Zhu Zhuqing struck with deadly precision.
Despite their individual strengths, their coordination faltered at times. Lin Tian watched silently, taking mental notes.
After the battle, he addressed them. "Your power is undeniable, but your timing and communication are lacking. A single mistake could cost us victory in the tournament. We'll repeat this exercise until you operate as a seamless unit."
The team groaned but complied, recognizing the wisdom in his words.
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A Mysterious Observer
Unbeknownst to the group, a cloaked figure watched their training from the shadows. Their eyes glinted with curiosity as they observed Lin Tian's leadership and the team's progress.
"So, this is the prodigy everyone's talking about," the figure murmured. "He's impressive, but is he ready for what's coming?"
The figure disappeared as silently as they had arrived, leaving no trace of their presence.
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A Test of Strength
One week into the training, Lin Tian decided to challenge the team with a sparring match. He and Yue'er would face all six members simultaneously.
"If you can land a single hit on me, I'll consider today a success," Lin Tian said, his tone unwavering.
The team exchanged glances, understanding the difficulty of the task.
As the battle began, Tang San coordinated their efforts, using his control abilities to create openings. Dai Mubai charged forward, supported by Oscar's buffs and Ning Rongrong's enhancements. Zhu Zhuqing flanked from the side, while Ma Hongjun unleashed fiery attacks.
But Lin Tian's Phantom Step made him nearly untouchable. He weaved through their attacks effortlessly, countering with precision. Yue'er's swordsmanship kept them at bay, her strikes calculated and relentless.
Despite their best efforts, the team failed to land a single blow. Lin Tian finally called for a halt.
"You're improving, but you're still relying too much on individual abilities. In the tournament, your opponents won't give you a second chance. Focus on exploiting weaknesses as a team."
Though exhausted, the group nodded, determination in their eyes.
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Unveiling a Secret
One evening, after a long day of training, Yue'er approached Lin Tian with a hesitant expression.
"Master, may I speak freely?" she asked.
Lin Tian gestured for her to continue.
"I've been hiding something from you," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I possess a second martial spirit—a rare one inherited from my bloodline. It's called the Moonlit Guardian."
Lin Tian's interest was piqued. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
"I didn't want to overshadow your journey. But with the tournament approaching, I believe it could be an asset to our cause."
Yue'er activated her second martial spirit, and a glowing silver wolf materialized beside her, radiating a calming yet powerful aura.
Lin Tian smiled. "Your loyalty has always been your greatest strength. This revelation only proves your dedication. Use it wisely, Yue'er. Together, we'll achieve greatness."
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The Countdown Begins
As the two-month deadline approached, the team's progress was undeniable. Their teamwork had improved drastically, and their individual strengths had been honed to perfection.
One evening, as they rested after training, Ning Rongrong voiced a question that lingered in everyone's minds. "Lin Tian, why do you push yourself so hard? What drives you?"
Lin Tian stared at the stars, his expression thoughtful. "I'm not just fighting for myself. I have a destiny to fulfill, one that transcends this tournament or even this world. But for now, my goal is simple—to ensure all of us reach our full potential."
His words resonated deeply, inspiring the group to push themselves even harder in the days that followed.
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The Day of Departure
Finally, the day arrived. The team gathered at the academy gates, their spirits high and their resolve unshakable. Flender and the other instructors saw them off with words of encouragement.
"Remember, Shrek Academy has always been about defying expectations," Flender said. "Go out there and show the world what true strength looks like."
As they set off toward the tournament venue, Lin Tian felt a surge of confidence. The challenges ahead would be formidable, but he knew they were ready.
Yue'er walked beside him, her presence a quiet reassurance. "Master, no matter what happens, I'll be by your side."
Lin Tian nodded, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "And together, we'll carve our names into history."
To Be Continued...