Douluo Dao : Soul Archer: The Bow of Destiny

Feng Xuan sat cross-legged under the large, tree in the training grounds, the afternoon sun filtering through the leaves and casting dappled shadows on the ground. He closed his eyes, focusing his thoughts on his mentor, Shivarjuna, whose presence he could feel beside him.

"Master Shivarjuna," Feng Xuan began, opening his eyes to look at his mentor. "I've been thinking about where to find a Phantom Hawk for my first spirit ring. Do you have any suggestions on possible locations?"

Shivarjuna, a tall figure with an aura of wisdom and strength, nodded thoughtfully. "The Phantom Hawk is a rare and elusive creature, Feng Xuan. It requires a specific environment to thrive. One of the best places to search is the Spirit Beast Forest near the Azure Mountains. The dense foliage and vast terrain provide the perfect habitat for such a spirit beast."

Feng Xuan nodded, absorbing the information. "I've heard the Spirit Beast Forest is quite vast and dangerous. Are there any particular areas within the forest that I should focus on?"

Shivarjuna stroked his chin, considering the question. "The deeper regions of the forest, closer to the mountains, are your best bet. These areas are less frequented by humans and offer the kind of seclusion that Phantom Hawks prefer. Look for dense tree canopies and areas with plenty of cover."

"What about the mountainous regions themselves?" Feng Xuan asked, thinking about the rocky outcrops and high altitudes.

"Yes," Shivarjuna agreed. "The Azure Mountains have numerous cliffs and high vantage points that a Phantom Hawk would find ideal for nesting. The higher reaches, where fewer spirit beasts and humans venture, could be promising."

Feng Xuan nodded, feeling more confident about his search. "Are there any other places I should consider?"

Shivarjuna's eyes gleamed with ancient knowledge. "Ancient ruins within the forest might also be worth exploring. Overgrown with vegetation, these ruins provide plenty of hiding spots and an environment rich in spirit energy. Cursed or dark forests, though dangerous, can be home to many rare spirit beasts, including Phantom Hawks."

Feng Xuan felt a thrill of anticipation. "Thank you, Master Shivarjuna. I feel more prepared for the search now. With your guidance, I believe I can find the Phantom Hawk and obtain my first spirit ring."

Shivarjuna placed a reassuring hand on Feng Xuan's shoulder. "You have trained hard and are ready for this challenge. Trust in your abilities and instincts. The Phantom Hawk is elusive, but with determination and perseverance, you will succeed."

Feng Xuan nodded, gratitude filling his heart. "I won't let you down, Master. I'll find the Phantom Hawk and return stronger."

Saying this, Feng Xuan felt a surge of determination. He gathered his belongings, packing essential supplies and his trusted bow. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the academy, he set off on his journey to the Spirit Beast Forest near the Azure Mountains. However, before leaving, there was one crucial stop he had to make – a visit to Su Yuntao from the Spirit Hall to get permission to hunt spirit beasts.

Feng Xuan has always talked with Su Yuntao time to time and has now became friend with him.

Feng Xuan made his way through the bustling streets of Nuoding, heading towards the imposing building of the Spirit Hall. The streets were filled with merchants, children playing, and townsfolk going about their daily lives. The sounds of laughter and chatter gradually faded as he approached the entrance of the Spirit Hall.

Inside, the atmosphere was solemn and quiet. Feng Xuan approached the front desk, where an attendant directed him to Su Yuntao's office. Knocking on the door, he waited until a deep voice invited him in.

"Feng Xuan," Su Yuntao greeted him, looking up from his desk. "What brings you here today?"

"Sir, I've come to request permission to hunt for a spirit ring in the Spirit Beast Forest near the Azure Mountains," Feng Xuan explained, his voice steady and respectful.

Su Yuntao studied him for a moment before nodding. "You've trained hard, Feng Xuan. I remember when you first awakened your martial soul. You've delay till now. I had remind you many time to you to get spirit ring but you denied. Do you have a specific target in mind?"

"Yes, sir," Feng Xuan replied. "I'm seeking a Phantom Hawk. I believe it will be the best match for my bow martial soul."

Su Yuntao's eyebrows raised slightly in surprise. "A Phantom Hawk? That's a challenging spirit beast to hunt. But if anyone is prepared for it, I believe it's you. Very well, you can have my permission tokan. Just be cautious – the forest is dangerous, and the mountains even more so."

"Thank you, Sir," Feng Xuan said, bowing slightly. "I'll be careful."

With Su Yuntao's permission token secured, Feng Xuan left the Spirit Hall feeling more confident. The journey ahead was long, and he knew he had to pace himself. Leaving the familiar grounds of Nuoding Academy, he walked through the bustling town once more. As he reached the outskirts and entered the open countryside, the sounds of the town faded behind him.

The first night, he camped under a starlit sky, the crackling fire providing warmth and comfort. He thought of his mentor, Shivarjuna, and the words of wisdom that guided him. Even though Shivarjuna resided within his second martial soul space, Feng Xuan could feel his mentor's presence and guidance. The anticipation of the challenges ahead kept him awake for a while, but the rhythmic sounds of nature eventually lulled him to sleep.

As dawn broke, Feng Xuan continued his trek, the landscape gradually changing from open fields to rolling hills. He encountered travelers and villagers along the way, exchanging friendly nods and brief conversations. Each step brought him closer to his destination and his goal of acquiring his first spirit ring.

After several days of travel, Feng Xuan finally reached the edge of the Spirit Beast Forest. The trees towered above him, their thick canopies blocking out much of the sunlight. The forest felt alive, with the sounds of birds and other creatures echoing through the dense foliage.

Taking a deep breath, Feng Xuan stepped into the forest, the air cooler and filled with the scent of damp earth and leaves. The path ahead was unclear.

As Feng Xuan journeyed deeper into the Spirit Beast Forest, he encountered various spirit beasts along the way. His senses were heightened, his every move calculated to avoid unnecessary confrontations. However, a new challenge soon presented itself—determining the age of the spirit beasts he encountered. This was crucial for ensuring he chose a spirit ring that would enhance his abilities without being too overpowering or dangerous.

Feng Xuan paused in a small clearing, taking a moment to catch his breath and consult his mentor, Shivarjuna, who resided within his second martial soul space. He closed his eyes and focused, reaching out with his thoughts.

"Master Shivarjuna, I need your guidance," Feng Xuan communicated mentally. "I'm having trouble identifying the age of the spirit beasts I encounter. How can I accurately determine their age to find a suitable spirit ring?"

Shivarjuna's calm and wise voice echoed in Feng Xuan's mind, offering reassurance. "Feng Xuan, identifying the age of a spirit beast requires keen observation and an understanding of their physical characteristics and energy aura. Focus on their size, physical features, and the intensity of their spiritual power."

Feng Xuan nodded, absorbing his mentor's advice. Shivarjuna continued, "For example, older spirit beasts often have more prominent features, such as larger bodies, distinct markings, or even scars from previous battles. Additionally, their energy aura will feel more potent and refined. Younger beasts will lack these characteristics and have a more subdued aura."

"Thank you, Master," Feng Xuan replied, feeling more confident. "I'll keep this in mind as I continue my search."

With Shivarjuna's guidance fresh in his mind, Feng Xuan resumed his journey. He paid closer attention to the spirit beasts he encountered, noting their physical traits and sensing their energy auras. This newfound focus helped him differentiate between the younger, less suitable beasts and the older, more powerful ones that would provide the ideal spirit ring.

As he ventured further into the forest, Feng Xuan spotted a group of spirit beasts near a small stream. One beast, in particular, caught his attention—a large, majestic creature with distinctive markings and a powerful aura. It fit Shivarjuna's description of an older beast perfectly.

Feng Xuan approached cautiously, his heart pounding with anticipation. He observed the beast closely, noting its size, the depth of its eyes, and the intensity of its presence. It had to be around the right age, suitable for his first spirit ring.