Soul land: Primordial Sun

The interior of the Spirit Hall branch was simple yet dignified, with polished wooden floors and golden banners adorned with the Spirit Hall insignia. Shen stepped forward, his steps steady despite his youthful appearance.

The receptionist, an amiable middle aged lady Spirit Master, greeted him warmly. "Welcome, young master. How may the Spirit Hall assist you today?"

Shen offered a polite smile, his golden eyes gleaming. "I've come to register myself under the Spirit Hall's jurisdiction and declare my guardian's residence here. I believe in the Spirit Hall's vision and its contributions to awakening and nurturing Spirit Masters. I hope I can be a part of that."

The receptionist's face lit up. "How admirable! Spirit Hall always welcomes those who recognize our efforts. May I have your name and your guardian's details?"

Shen nodded, quickly forming his story. "My name is Long Shenyang, and I'm here with my uncle, Ren Tai, who is both my guardian and mentor. We recently arrived in Dolphin Wave Town from one of the nearby islands."

The receptionist scribbled on a parchment, nodding as she wrote. "Your guardian's name, Ren Tai—and is he a spirit master?"

"No he is not," Shen replied showing a sad expression, deciding to hide his subordinates' strength. "We plan to settle here for the foreseeable future while I grow into my abilities. It's comforting to know Spirit Hall works tirelessly to awaken the potential of so many."

The receptionist's chest swelled with pride. "Indeed, young master. Spirit Hall ensures no one's talent is overlooked. We host spirit awakenings twice a year to give even the most humble child a chance to rise in the world."

Shen's smile deepened. "How noble of the Spirit Hall. The leadership must be exceptional to maintain such a vision."

The receptionist hesitated for a moment, lowering her voice slightly. "Our esteemed Pope Qian Xunji has indeed done much for the Hall. Though he has no personal disciples as of yet, his guidance ensures that Spirit Hall remains unparalleled."

Qian Xunji, Shen thought, confirming his suspicions. So, the timeline is indeed before Tang San's era. Interesting.

"Thank you for your assistance," Shen said aloud, masking his thoughts. "I look forward to being a part of Spirit Hall if I am able to awaken a martial spirit with soul power."

The receptionist completed his registration and handed him a small badge engraved with the Spirit Hall insignia. "This batch is proof of your identity and can be shown in in any of the branches of spirit hall as proof of your identity."

Shen accepted it with a courteous nod. "You've been most helpful. Farewell."

He turned and exited the branch, his mind already planning his next steps.

Back at their seaside home, the sun was beginning to set.Fu Lian was sitting on the porch, nibbling on another bun Ren Tai had provided. Her wide eyes brightened when she saw Shen return.

"Come inside," Shen said, motioning for her to follow.

Once they were all seated, Shen addressed her. "Fu Lian, rest well tonight. Tomorrow, we begin your lessons. You'll learn to read and write. It's essential for survival."

Her expression turned hesitant, but she nodded, determination flickering in her eyes.

Shen looked at his guards. "Uncle Tai, I'll also be joining her in these lessons. While I know the language, I still need to master the written form. Have the necessary materials prepared."

"As you wish, young master," Ren Tai replied.

After ensuring Fu Lian had everything she needed for the night, Shen retreated to the courtyard.

The iron sword Shen had purchased from a blacksmith earlier lay waiting for him, its weight feeling balanced in his small hands. Though it wasn't anything special, it was good enough for practice.

The Crescent Sun Style was a sword art rooted in harnessing the power of the sun through precise and flowing movements. It had five forms, each more intricate and deadly than the last:

1. Rising Dawn – A swift upward slash designed to catch opponents off guard.

2. Solar Arc – A wide, flowing slash mimicking the sun's trajectory across the sky.

3. Burning Edge – A powerful thrust that concentrated energy at the sword's tip.

4. Eclipse Guard – A defensive technique using circular movements to deflect attacks.

5. Flare Burst – A finishing move combining speed and power to overwhelm the opponent.

Shen began with Rising Dawn, his small frame flowing through the movements with surprising precision. The slash cut through the air, each strike stronger and more refined than the last.

As he transitioned into Solar Arc, his focus deepened. The movements felt natural, as though his body already knew the steps.

This style is truly remarkable, Shen thought. Once I awaken my Divine Solar Sword, these techniques will shine even brighter.

The night grew darker, but Shen continued to practice, his determination unyielding. Every swing of his sword carried the weight of his ambition and the resolve to rise above all in this new world.

From the house, Fu Lian peeked out, watching him silently. Though she didn't fully understand what drove him, she could feel his intensity—a fire that burned brighter than anything she'd ever seen.

For Shen, this was only the beginning. His foundation was being laid brick by brick, and with each passing day, his destiny grew closer to being within his grasp.