Step Forward

Along the way to the Martial Spirit Hall Forest—a sanctuary managed by Spirit Hall to cultivate and care for soul beasts—Yue Guan decided to engage both Hu Liena and Qing Chen in conversation. His golden hair shimmered in the sunlight as he turned to the young prodigies, curiosity evident in his sharp gaze.

"Both of you," Yue Guan began, his voice calm yet commanding, "do you have any particular soul beasts in mind for your first soul ring? This is an important decision. A suitable match will greatly enhance your martial spirits."

Hu Liena, with her confident demeanor and radiant charm, was the first to answer. "Since my martial spirit is the Charm Fox, I plan to seek out another Charm Fox soul beast. Their abilities align perfectly with my martial spirit, and their essence will ensure my charm-based powers reach their full potential." Her tone was steady, conviction clear.

Yue Guan nodded approvingly before shifting his gaze to Qing Chen. "And you, Qing Chen? Have you thought about what soul beast would suit your Charisma's Embrace martial spirit?"

Qing Chen didn't hesitate. "I've decided on a Golden Peacock," he said, his voice calm yet resolute. "Golden Peacocks are rare beasts with unparalleled charm abilities. While they lack direct offensive power, their charm and presence can neutralize enemies by bending their will. This aligns perfectly with the essence of my Charisma's Embrace and will allow me to control the battlefield in unconventional ways."

Yue Guan raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed by Qing Chen's choice. "A Golden Peacock, you say? Ambitious. They are indeed rare and notoriously difficult to handle. Their charm-based abilities make them a coveted soul beast for those who seek dominance through influence rather than brute force. However, capturing one will be no simple feat. Are you prepared for the challenge?"

Qing Chen's eyes glimmered with determination. "I am," he replied firmly.

Yue Guan chuckled softly. "Good. Determination will serve you well. Let's see if the forest holds what you both seek."

The group continued their journey as the dense forest grew thicker around them. Towering trees seemed to hum with latent energy, the air heavy with the presence of soul beasts. Each step brought them closer to the heart of the forest, where the most powerful beasts resided.

They stopped by a small clearing to rest, and Yue Guan took the opportunity to share some advice. "Remember, a soul beast's essence will determine your skill. You'll need to consider not only its compatibility with your martial spirit but also its traits. Hu Liena, a Charm Fox will bolster your seduction and control abilities, but you'll need to be precise in battle. Qing Chen, a Golden Peacock will give you unparalleled charm, but without direct attacks, you'll rely heavily on strategy and allies."

Hu Liena nodded thoughtfully, while Qing Chen listened intently.

The peaceful silence was broken by a faint rustling sound in the distance. Yue Guan's gaze sharpened as he held up a hand to signal the group to stop. "Stay alert," he whispered. "We're not alone."

Moments later, a low growl echoed through the forest, and the trees parted to reveal a Charm Fox soul beast, its silver fur shimmering in the dappled sunlight. Its eyes gleamed with intelligence and wariness as it locked onto the group.

Hu Liena's face lit up. "It's perfect," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Yue Guan smiled faintly. "Then let's see if you're ready to claim it."

As Hu Liena prepared to engage the Charm Fox, Qing Chen's attention was drawn to the treetops. There, perched on a high branch, was a Golden Peacock. Its feathers radiated a soft, golden glow, its elegant form exuding an almost regal presence.

The Golden Peacock spread its shimmering wings and released a piercing cry that resonated through the forest. The sheer majesty of the creature was enough to make Qing Chen pause. Its golden feathers caught the sunlight, refracting it into an array of dazzling hues. However, beneath its beauty lay a dangerous foe, one known for its ability to manipulate and disorient its enemies.

Hu Liena glanced at Qing Chen, her usually composed face betraying a hint of hesitation. "That Golden Peacock is rare, Qing Chen. If you don't claim it, it'll be a waste," she said earnestly. "I'll help you. My Charm Fox can wait; they're not as rare as this."

Before Qing Chen could reply, the peacock's golden eyes glowed, and a wave of charm energy surged toward them. Qing Chen felt a momentary daze, as though his will was slipping away, but he quickly bit his lip to shake off the effect. Hu Liena staggered slightly but steadied herself, her strong mental focus keeping her grounded.

Qing Chen suddenly vanished into the shadows, his dagger gleaming faintly. Hu Liena, left momentarily speechless by his sudden disappearance, turned her focus to assisting in the fight. The Golden Peacock's charm energy pulsed rhythmically, but its defenses were thin—its beauty belied its vulnerability.

Hu Liena struck with precision, her attacks disrupting the peacock's movements. However, the battle began to take its toll on her. Meanwhile, Yue Guan observed calmly, his expression revealing no concern. He could sense Qing Chen's presence, though Hu Liena could not.

After what felt like an eternity, a white flash burst through the forest—a streak of light slicing through the air. Qing Chen emerged from the shadows, his dagger plunging into the Golden Peacock's back. The majestic creature let out a final piercing cry as blood gushed from its wound. Its golden legs quivered before it collapsed to the ground, the glow in its eyes fading.

A vibrant yellow ring appeared from the peacock's fallen body, its energy pulsating in the air. Yue Guan nodded in approval. "Well done, Qing Chen. Absorb the soul ring. I'll ensure no interruptions."

As Qing Chen knelt to absorb the soul ring, Hu Liena took the opportunity to rest, her spirit power drained from the prolonged fight. Remarkably, Qing Chen completed the absorption process in less than an hour—a feat that left Yue Guan momentarily stunned.

"Impressive," Yue Guan murmured. "Such efficiency in absorbing a soul ring... Truly extraordinary."

Once Hu Liena had recovered, the group resumed their journey to find her first soul ring.

---

The power of domain

Domain of the star:

- Daytime Activation: Turns the area into a starlit night, boosting the user's power.

- Nighttime Activation: Enhances the user's star-based abilities even further.

- Effects on Enemies: Reduces all enemy attributes (attack, defense, speed, etc.) by 50%.

Domain of desire: 

- Emotional Manipulation: Weakens enemies by amplifying their desires, fears, or insecurities.

- Charm Boost: Strengthens the user's charm abilities, making them harder to resist.

- Submission Aura: Creates a psychological pressure, making people who has lower charm more likely to surrender.