NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Whispers of Spirit Hall
After their victory over Tianshui Academy, the Shrek team returned to their quarters, the adrenaline of battle still fresh in their veins. The team members were jubilant, but Lin Tian's mind was elsewhere. Yue'er's warning about Spirit Hall's presence lingered in his thoughts.
Tang San approached him, noticing his pensive expression. "Lin Tian, you seem troubled. Is it about Spirit Hall?"
Lin Tian nodded, his golden eyes narrowing. "Their interest in this tournament isn't just casual. They're watching for something—or someone. We need to stay vigilant."
Tang San's gaze hardened. "If they make a move, we'll be ready."
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The Next Round
The schedule for the next round was released the following day. Shrek Academy would face Blazing Academy, one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
"This will be a tougher fight," Flender warned during their strategy meeting. "Blazing Academy specializes in fire-based attacks, and their team captain, Huo Wushuang, is known for his explosive strength and aggression."
Lin Tian studied the lineup. "Their strength lies in overwhelming their opponents with power. But their weakness is their lack of flexibility. If we can disrupt their rhythm, they'll crumble."
Tang San suggested, "I can use my Blue Silver Grass to create a perimeter, forcing them into a controlled area. Zhuqing and I can strike from the shadows while Rongrong enhances our defenses."
Lin Tian nodded. "Good. Yue'er and I will handle Huo Wushuang directly. The rest of you focus on dividing and conquering their team."
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The Clash of Flames and Stars
The coliseum was even more crowded than before, the anticipation for the match palpable. As the Shrek and Blazing teams entered the arena, the temperature seemed to rise, a reflection of Blazing Academy's fiery aura.
Huo Wushuang smirked at Lin Tian. "Finally, we meet in the arena. I've heard a lot about you, but let's see if you're as strong as they say."
Lin Tian's expression remained calm. "You'll find out soon enough."
The referee signaled the start of the match.
Blazing Academy wasted no time, their team members unleashing waves of fire that spread rapidly across the arena. The heat was intense, forcing the Shrek team to act quickly.
Tang San's Blue Silver Grass emerged, forming a barrier that absorbed and deflected the flames. Zhu Zhuqing darted through the chaos, her speed and agility allowing her to close in on Blazing Academy's rear guard.
Meanwhile, Lin Tian confronted Huo Wushuang directly. The Blazing captain summoned a massive Flame Tiger, its roaring heat causing the air around it to shimmer.
"Impressive," Lin Tian said, his voice steady. "But not enough."
With a flick of his wrist, Lin Tian activated his Celestial Spirit Armor, the radiant barrier shielding him from the tiger's flames. He countered with Starfire Blades, energy constructs that slashed through the tiger, dispersing it into embers.
Huo Wushuang gritted his teeth, summoning all his strength for a final attack. "You won't defeat me so easily!"
He launched a blazing punch, the sheer force of it creating a shockwave. Lin Tian met it head-on, his Divine Celestial Sword glowing with concentrated energy. Their clash created an explosion of light and heat, forcing the spectators to shield their eyes.
When the dust settled, Lin Tian stood victorious, his aura undiminished. Huo Wushuang collapsed to his knees, his energy spent.
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A Turning Point
With their captain defeated, the remaining members of Blazing Academy fell one by one. The Shrek team's coordination and strategy proved superior, securing them another victory.
As they exited the arena, Lin Tian noticed the same cloaked figures from before. This time, one of them stepped forward, blocking his path.
"You're quite skilled," the figure said, their voice low and ominous. "But power like yours attracts enemies. Be careful, Lin Tian. Spirit Hall has taken notice of you."
Before Lin Tian could respond, the figure disappeared into the crowd.
Yue'er placed a protective hand on her sword. "Master, we should take this warning seriously."
Lin Tian's expression hardened. "I've been prepared for Spirit Hall's attention. If they come for us, they'll regret it."
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An Unexpected Encounter
Later that evening, as Lin Tian walked through the city, he encountered a young woman with striking blue hair and a serene presence. She was surrounded by admirers, but her gaze locked onto Lin Tian as if she recognized him.
"You must be Lin Tian," she said, approaching him.
"And you are?" he asked, his tone cautious but curious.
"I am Shui Yue'er, Shui Bing'er's sister," she replied with a gentle smile. "She spoke highly of you after your match. I wanted to see the person who defeated my sister so effortlessly."
Lin Tian nodded. "Your sister is strong. She led her team well."
Shui Yue'er's smile widened. "You're humble for someone so powerful. I look forward to seeing how far you'll go in this tournament."
As she walked away, Yue'er appeared at Lin Tian's side, her expression unreadable. "Master, do you trust her?"
Lin Tian shook his head. "Trust is earned, not given. But I sense no ill intent from her… for now."
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The Gathering Storm
Back at the Shrek quarters, the team prepared for the next round. Tang San approached Lin Tian with a map of the tournament structure.
"Our next opponents are from Skyfire Academy," he said. "They specialize in aerial combat, which will make them harder to pin down."
Lin Tian studied the map. "We'll need to adjust our tactics. Tang San, your control abilities will be crucial for grounding them. Zhuqing, focus on eliminating their supports quickly. Yue'er and I will keep their main attackers occupied."
As they discussed their strategy, the atmosphere grew tense. Each victory brought them closer to the championship—and closer to the watchful eyes of Spirit Hall.
Lin Tian stood, his resolve unwavering. "We've come this far. No matter what obstacles await, we'll face them together. This tournament is only the beginning."
To Be Continued...