Chapter 8 – New Year, New Power
After a year of hard training, the long-awaited moment had finally arrived. Lu Xingchen and his team had reached level 20, and while they were happy with their achievement, they knew this was just the beginning of their long journey. However, they couldn't afford to rest for too long. A greater goal lay ahead of them: the quest for the soul rings they needed to continue their cultivation process.
On a quiet afternoon, Xingchen led his team toward the Headmaster's office. They had discussed this beforehand, and now it was time to seek permission and guidance from the most experienced person in the academy.
"We've reached level 20, but we still need soul rings to move on to the next stage," said Xingchen firmly as they stood outside the Headmaster's door.
Zhan Wu nodded in agreement. "I think we're ready, but we also need the Headmaster's help. The journey to find the soul rings is not an easy one."
Mei Yun looked at the door with respect. "I hope the Headmaster will be willing to help us. We've done our best in training, but we know there's still so much to learn."
Yao Han, who was usually more reserved, nodded slowly. "This is a big step for us. We need to be well-prepared."
Xingchen took a deep breath. "Let's go in. There's no time to hesitate. We're ready."
With determined hearts, they knocked on the Headmaster's door. A moment later, the Headmaster's voice came from inside.
"Come in."
The door opened, and they all stepped inside. The spacious and neatly organized room had the Headmaster sitting behind a large wooden desk, reading an old book that lay in front of him. With a wise smile, the Headmaster looked at them.
"Ah, children. It seems you are ready to make an important request, yes?" the Headmaster said, closing the book and looking at them.
Xingchen stepped forward, bowing his head respectfully. "Headmaster, we've reached level 20. We feel ready to continue our journey, but we need soul rings to move on to the next stage of our cultivation."
The Headmaster nodded slowly. "I've heard about your progress. I'm very impressed with your hard work and perseverance so far. However, finding soul rings is not an easy task. It's a journey filled with challenges and dangers."
Zhan Wu immediately spoke with enthusiasm, "We know, Headmaster. But we're ready to face any challenge. We believe that with your guidance, we can do it."
Mei Yun added, "We want to do this together. We believe that our unity is the key strength that will lead us to our goal."
The Headmaster smiled wisely. "I'm glad to hear such strong determination. Seeking soul rings is not something to be taken lightly. But if you truly want to move to the next stage, I will help you. There are many places outside the academy where you can find soul rings, but not all of them are safe. You must be cautious and prepare well."
Yao Han, who rarely spoke, finally opened his mouth. "Headmaster, are there specific places we can go to search for soul rings that match our abilities?"
The Headmaster thought for a moment. "There are several locations you can visit, but I recommend caution. One of them is the Yama Forest in the northern region. That place is known for the presence of powerful beast spirits. There, you may find soul rings that match your strength, but you must be prepared to face danger."
Xingchen looked at the Headmaster attentively. "We will be careful, Headmaster. We want to prepare ourselves as best as we can before setting out. Is there anything else we need to know before starting our search?"
The Headmaster nodded. "Besides strength, you also need sharp instincts. Many people fail in their search for soul rings because they focus too much on physical power and techniques, but they forget that sharp instincts and quick decision-making are just as important. You must choose wisely, and don't hesitate to retreat if the situation becomes too dangerous."
Zhan Wu nodded seriously. "We understand, Headmaster. We will rely not only on our strength but also on our wisdom."
"Good," replied the Headmaster with a smile. "I will provide you with further guidance regarding the routes you can take and the additional supplies you will need. But you must go with clear determination, and only with full preparation."
Mei Yun expressed her gratitude, "Thank you for your help and guidance, Headmaster. We will be ready for this journey."
The Headmaster stood and faced them attentively. "Never forget one thing—while you are searching for soul rings, your true goal is to grow, to become stronger, and to continue moving forward together. Don't just focus on the soul rings, but on the journey you are about to undertake."
Xingchen and his team nodded respectfully, realizing that the Headmaster's guidance was the first step in their great journey ahead. They knew that the quest for the soul rings would take them to much greater places, filled with challenges that would test both their strength and their bond of friendship.
With confidence and burning spirit, they left the Headmaster's office, ready to take the next step in their quest.
After leaving Headmaster Mo Xuan's office, Xingchen and his team walked out toward the academy's courtyard, each with thoughtful expressions and anticipation. They knew that this journey was not something to be taken lightly. There was much they needed to prepare, from supplies to strategies they would use during their soul ring quest.
"A place like the Yama Forest… it sounds terrifying," Mei Yun said with some hesitation. "We need to make sure we're all ready, both physically and mentally."
Xingchen turned and gave her a reassuring smile. "We've trained for this, and we know we can rely on each other. That's the most important thing."
Zhan Wu lightly patted Mei Yun's shoulder. "We're not just a team, we're family. So, whatever happens, we'll face it together."
"Exactly," added Yao Han calmly. "We must take care of each other and always think ahead. Don't rush or make hasty decisions."
Xingchen gazed at the bright afternoon sky, feeling the fire of determination within him. "We'll do it. We'll leave here as more than just ordinary cultivators. We'll become an unstoppable force."
With even stronger resolve, they stepped forward toward the place that would forever change their journey. A journey that would not only test their strength but also the loyalty and bonds they shared with one another.