The next morning, they met with Yu Xiaogang who agreed to guide them to the Spirit Hunting Forest, one of the safer locations near Notting City where young spirit masters could hunt for appropriate soul beasts. The journey would take them through familiar countryside before reaching the forest's edge.
"The Spirit Hunting Forest is specifically maintained for spirit masters seeking their first few soul rings," Yu Xiaogang explained as they walked. "The Spirit Hall regularly patrols the area to ensure dangerous high-level beasts don't venture into the hunting zones."
"My goal is to find either a speed-type or telekinetic ability for my sword," Lin Tianyu said. "What type of soul skill are you hoping for, Tang San?"
"Something with control capabilities would complement my Blue Silver Grass well," Tang San replied. "Snake-type spirit beasts often provide excellent binding and restriction abilities."
Yu Xiaogang nodded approvingly. "Both are wise choices for your martial spirits. The Spirit Hunting Forest should have appropriate targets for both of your needs."
When they finally reached the edge of the Spirit Hunting Forest, the managed woodland created an atmosphere that was both natural and safe. The sounds of spirit beasts echoed through the forest, but they were clearly from creatures that posed manageable threats to beginning spirit masters.
They spent several hours carefully exploring the forest while Yu Xiaogang searched for appropriate targets. Lin Tianyu discreetly activated his Desire Compass, focusing his thoughts on finding 'the safest path to the perfect control-type soul beast for Tang San's cultivation.' The compass needle pointed steadily in a specific direction, and Lin Tianyu began subtly suggesting routes that aligned with its guidance.
"Perhaps we should check that area over there," Lin Tianyu would suggest when Yu Xiaogang paused to consider their path. "The vegetation looks promising for snake-type creatures."
"The light seems better in that direction for spotting spirit beasts," he offered at another junction, steering them along the compass's indicated route.
Yu Xiaogang, believing these to be insightful observations from the merchant's son, followed Lin Tianyu's suggestions. Eventually, their guided path led them directly to where a Datura Snake lay coiled around a tree branch about fifty meters ahead, its venomous coils gleaming in the filtered sunlight.
"Excellent instincts, young Lin," Yu Xiaogang praised, then frowned as he studied the snake more carefully. "However, that one looks to be around five hundred years old. Far too dangerous for a first soul ring. We should look for something closer to four hundred years."
Tang San studied the snake intently. "Master Yu, I believe my physical conditioning might allow me to handle the increased spiritual pressure. I've been training intensively for years."
Yu Xiaogang shook his head firmly. "Absolutely not. My research indicates that first soul rings should never exceed four hundred and twenty-three years for optimal safety. A five hundred year ring could cause serious cultivation damage or even death."
"Master Yu," Tang San began respectfully but firmly, "I understand the risks, but consider this - if you monitor the absorption process directly, you could gather invaluable data about how different physical conditions might affect ring compatibility. My unique training methods could provide insights that advance your research."
Yu Xiaogang's brow furrowed in thought. "An interesting proposition, but the potential cost..."
"I've studied extensively about spirit beast absorption," Lin Tianyu added carefully. "While spiritual capacity is certainly crucial, couldn't there be merit in examining how exceptional physical conditioning might help stabilize the process? Even if the theory proves incorrect, having you present to monitor and intervene would minimize any danger."
"The knowledge gained could benefit future generations of spirit masters," Tang San pressed. "And I give you my word - if you detect any signs of rejection or dangerous feedback, I'll cooperate fully with immediate termination of the absorption."
Yu Xiaogang stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Your arguments have merit, particularly about advancing our understanding of the absorption process. And I must admit, your physical conditioning is remarkable..." He squared his shoulders. "Very well. But I will maintain constant monitoring, and you must obey instantly if I order you to stop. Is that clear?"
"Absolutely, Master Yu," Tang San agreed solemnly. "Thank you for this opportunity to contribute to spirit master research."
"And thank you for being willing to supervise this carefully," Lin Tianyu added. "Your expertise will ensure the safest possible testing of these theories."
The Datura Snake coiled and struck with lightning speed, its venomous fangs gleaming. Tang San rolled sideways, his movements precise and economical as he avoided the deadly bite. Lin Tianyu circled to the beast's flank, drawing its attention with calculated movements while Yu Xiaogang maintained a safe distance, ready to intervene if needed.
"Its attack pattern follows a three-strike sequence," Lin Tianyu called out, his analytical mind tracking the serpent's movements. "There's a brief pause after the third strike!"
Tang San nodded, weaving between the snake's attacks while scattering Blue Silver Grass to limit its mobility. The spirit beast's scales gleamed with an otherworldly purple sheen as it twisted and struck again, but Tang San was ready. He waited for the third strike, then moved in during the crucial opening.
Lin Tianyu tossed several well timed sticks and stones, creating a distraction that confused the snake's keen senses. Yu Xiaogang contributed by channeling his spirit power to create a containment field, preventing the beast from escaping.
"Now, Tang San!" Lin Tianyu shouted as the snake reared back for another strike.
Tang San seized the moment perfectly, his Hidden Weapons technique releasing a barrage of needles that found gaps between the snake's scales. The spirit beast thrashed violently but couldn't escape the coordinated assault. With one final, precise strike, Tang San delivered the killing blow, ending the battle with minimal damage to the valuable spirit ring.
The three stood panting slightly as the snake's body began dissolving into spiritual energy, leaving behind the shimmering purple soul ring. Yu Xiaogang moved closer to monitor the absorption process while Lin Tianyu maintained watch for other potential threats.
Tang San's first soul skill manifested as "Binding," which allowed his Blue Silver Grass to become significantly stronger and more flexible, capable of restraining opponents with much greater effectiveness than before.
"Excellent," Lin Tianyu praised his friend's success. "Your physical preparation made a significant difference in how much power you could safely absorb."
Yu Xiaogang stared at Tang San in amazement, clearly struggling to reconcile what he had witnessed with his established theories. "This... this shouldn't have been possible. A five hundred year soul ring on a first absorption..." He shook his head slowly. "Perhaps I need to reconsider some of my assumptions about the role of physical conditioning in soul ring absorption."
Now it was Lin Tianyu's turn. He discreetly activated his Desire Compass again, this time focusing his thoughts on finding 'the safest path to a thousand-year speed or telekinesis-type soul beast suitable for my cultivation level.' The compass needle shifted to point in a new direction, and Lin Tianyu began subtly guiding their search once more.
"Perhaps we should explore that section over there," Lin Tianyu suggested casually. "The terrain looks like it might attract the type of agile spirit beasts I need."
Following his compass guidance while appearing to follow Yu Xiaogang's lead, they eventually arrived at an area where a Shadow Cat prowled among the trees. The sleek, dark-furred feline spirit beast was known for its incredible speed and stealth abilities, and Yu Xiaogang's assessment revealed it to be approximately one thousand years old.
Yu Xiaogang's face went pale as he studied the Shadow Cat more carefully. "This is a thousand-year spirit beast! Absolutely impossible for a first soul ring. We need to find something much weaker - no more than four hundred years."
"This beast will provide either speed boosts or shadow manipulation abilities," Tang San noted. "Both would complement your sword martial spirit well, but Master Yu is right. A thousand-year soul ring could kill you."
Lin Tianyu stepped forward confidently. "I believe I can handle it. My physical conditioning has been far more intensive than Tang San's. I've been training since I was four years old, and my family has provided me with expensive medicinal baths that strengthen the body beyond normal limits."
Yu Xiaogang shook his head vehemently. "You're talking about more than double my recommended maximum! Even if physical conditioning matters - which I'm beginning to suspect it might - this is still an enormous leap."
"Master Yu, I understand your concern, but consider this - Tang San's case with the five-hundred-year ring might have been pure luck. We simply don't have enough data points to conclusively prove physical conditioning is the key factor. However, if I successfully absorb a thousand-year ring, that would provide much stronger evidence that body strengthening truly plays a crucial role in soul ring absorption limits."
"My family's resources have allowed me access to cultivation methods far beyond what's typical. I've undergone specialized medicinal baths since childhood, using rare ingredients most spirit masters never encounter. The physical enhancement regimen I've followed is arguably more extensive than Tang San's."
"Furthermore, the traditional understanding of ring absorption focuses solely on the spiritual battle, but I believe there's more to it. When we absorb a ring, we're not just fighting the beast's soul - its energy is simultaneously affecting our physical body. It's a dual challenge of both spiritual and physical resistance. With my innate soul power at level ten, I have an advantage in the spiritual aspect as well."
"I'm not suggesting we proceed recklessly. You can closely monitor the entire process. If you detect any concerning signs during absorption, I'll fully cooperate with immediate termination, even if it means sacrificing some cultivation potential. Your expertise makes this the safest possible environment for such an attempt."
"Consider the broader implications - if successful, this could revolutionize our understanding of soul ring absorption limits. The knowledge gained could benefit countless future spirit masters. Yes, there are risks, but every major advancement in cultivation theory has come from those willing to challenge established limits under controlled conditions."
Yu Xiaogang studied Lin Tianyu intently, his expression thoughtful. The boy's arguments were logical, and Tang San's case had indeed challenged some fundamental assumptions. Finally, he spoke with careful deliberation. "Your physical condition is remarkable for your age, and your reasoning has merit. Very well - but I will terminate the absorption at the first sign of genuine danger, regardless of the consequences to your future potential."
"Wonderful! Let's take this kitty down, shall we?" Lin Tianyu couldn't help but exclaim.
Yu Xiaogang took position behind a thick oak tree, his spirit power ready to contain the beast if needed. "Remember, Shadow Cats are notorious for their hit-and-run tactics. Don't let it isolate any of us."
Tang San moved left, spreading Blue Silver Grass in a wide arc to cut off potential escape routes. His newly acquired Binding skill would prove crucial in restricting the spirit beast's legendary speed.
Lin Tianyu circled right, Merchant's Blade materializing in his grip. The sword's edge caught sunlight filtering through the canopy, casting dancing reflections across the forest floor. He kept his movements slow and deliberate, avoiding any sudden motions that might trigger the cat's predatory instincts.
The Shadow Cat's midnight-black fur rippled as it tracked their approach, muscles coiling beneath its sleek coat. Its golden eyes narrowed, tail lashing back and forth as it evaluated the threat. Unlike lesser beasts, this thousand-year creature showed clear tactical awareness, head swiveling between the three humans as it calculated its options.
"Watch for shadow displacement," Tang San warned, noticing subtle distortions in the darkness beneath the trees. "They can merge with shadows to attack from unexpected angles."
Lin Tianyu nodded, keeping his blade angled to defend his flanks. The trio continued their careful advance, gradually constricting the spirit beast's space. Blue Silver Grass crept forward on one side while Lin Tianyu's sword stance covered the other, leaving the Shadow Cat fewer and fewer options for escape.
The beast's fur bristled, ethereal darkness beginning to gather around its form. Its golden eyes fixed on Lin Tianyu - clearly identifying him as the weakest target despite his drawn weapon. A low growl rumbled through the clearing, carrying otherworldly harmonics that made the shadows themselves seem to vibrate in response.
"It's about to strike," Yu Xiaogang cautioned, his spirit power forming invisible barriers to further restrict the cat's movement. "Be ready for multiple feints. These creatures rarely commit to their first attack."
The Shadow Cat's muscles bunched, darkness swirling around its form like living smoke. Lin Tianyu adjusted his grip on the Merchant's Blade, every sense straining to detect the beast's true attack angle through its shadowy deceptions. The air grew thick with tension as predator and hunters reached the crucial moment where careful positioning would give way to explosive violence.
The Shadow Cat darted between shadows with supernatural grace, its form blurring as it weaved through Yu Xiaogang's defensive perimeter. Tang San's Blue Silver Grass attempted to restrict its movement, but the feline's incredible agility let it slip through the smallest gaps. Its claws flashed like obsidian daggers, forcing Lin Tianyu to constantly adjust his position.
"Watch the flanks!" Yu Xiaogang called out, his decades of experience reading the beast's movements. "It's trying to circle behind us!"
The creature seemed to melt into darkness before materializing on their left, but Tang San was ready. His vines erupted from the ground in a calculated pattern, herding the Shadow Cat toward Lin Tianyu's waiting blade. The beast hissed and twisted impossibly, its body contorting to avoid both the grasping plants and the gleaming steel.
"Now!" Lin Tianyu's analytical mind had decoded the Shadow Cat's complex evasion patterns. His sword flashed in anticipation as Yu Xiaogang's spirit power surged forward, manifesting as a shimmering barrier that caught the beast mid-leap. The creature yowled in frustration, its supernatural grace disrupted for a crucial moment.
Tang San's Blue Silver Grass writhed beneath the earth, erupting in a carefully calculated web. The vines snaked around the Shadow Cat's hind leg just as it attempted another impossible contortion. The beast's muscles bunched and strained against the binding, but the brief immobilization was fatal.
Lin Tianyu's blade sang through the air, a perfect arc that matched the Shadow Cat's desperate attempt to twist free. Steel met flesh with surgical precision, guided by countless hours of practice and natural talent. The magnificent creature's eyes widened in final recognition of its defeat before the sword found its heart, ending its life in one clean, merciful strike.
"Extraordinary coordination," Yu Xiaogang breathed, wiping sweat from his brow. "I've never seen a Shadow Cat pushed to such desperate tactics before. Its speed and stealth abilities were truly remarkable."
Tang San nodded in agreement. "Far more challenging than the Datura Snake. If we hadn't worked together so smoothly, it could have picked us off one by one."
"Perfect," Lin Tianyu said, examining the fallen spirit beast with deep respect. "Its abilities will serve me well."
When Lin Tianyu began absorbing the soul ring, the spiritual pressure was immediately apparent. His body strained under the intense energy, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he fought to integrate the powerful soul ring.
Tang San watched anxiously, ready to intervene if the absorption showed signs of failing. However, Lin Tianyu's extensive physical training and the improvement his body had received from his simulator allowed him to gradually adapt to the pressure.
The process took nearly an hour, far longer than Tang San's absorption, but Lin Tianyu successfully integrated the thousand-year soul ring. His first soul skill manifested as "Shadow Step," allowing him to briefly move with incredible speed while leaving behind shadow afterimages that could confuse enemies.
"Remarkable," Tang San said, genuinely impressed despite his earlier concerns. "Your success proves that physical conditioning truly does affect soul ring absorption limits. Most spirit masters underestimate the importance of bodily preparation."
Yu Xiaogang stood in stunned silence for several moments, staring at Lin Tianyu as if seeing him for the first time. "This... this completely contradicts my established theories," he said slowly. "A thousand-year first soul ring should be impossible. Yet here you are, not only alive but showing no signs of cultivation damage." He shook his head in bewilderment. "I may need to completely revise my understanding of soul ring absorption mechanics. Physical conditioning clearly plays a far more significant role than I ever imagined."
As the excitement of the successful absorption settled, Lin Tianyu checked his updated status through the system interface.
[System Status]
[Host: Lin Tianyu]
[Age: 6]
[Soul Power: 13]
[Martial Spirits:
* Myriad Tools (Gold Tool Spirit)
* No Rings
* Desire Compass (Purple Tool Spirit)
* No Rings
* Merchant's Blade (Blue Weapon Spirit)
* Ring 1: Shadow Cat (Purple 1,000), Shadow Step]
[Bloodlines: None]
[Talents:
* Comprehension (Gold)
* Divine Craftsman (Gold)
* Analytical Mind (Purple)
* Memory Database (Blue)
* Minor Pain Tolerance (Yellow)]
[Techniques:
* Lin Family Basic Sword Forms (Green)]
[Knowledge:
* Soul Guide Crafting (Purple)
* Basic Cooking Knowledge (Yellow)]
[Simulation Points: 1]
As Lin Tianyu integrated his new soul skill, a system notification appeared in his mind:
[Cultivation milestone achieved: First soul ring absorbed]
[New world unlocked: Danmachi World (aka Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?)]
Lin Tianyu's eyes widened with excitement as he read the notification. He had absolutely loved that anime in his previous life! The dungeon exploration, the familia system, the incredible character development - it had been one of his favorite series. Having access to simulate experiences in that world would be amazing, especially once he had enough points saved up for a high-quality simulation.
Lin Tianyu tested his new ability, moving in a blur of speed that left multiple shadow images in his wake. The improvement to his mobility was dramatic, and he could already see how it would complement his sword techniques.
"Thank you for supporting me in this," Lin Tianyu said gratefully. "This soul skill will be invaluable for my development as a spirit master."
As they prepared to return to Notting Academy, Tang San reflected on what he had witnessed. Both of them had demonstrated that conventional wisdom about soul ring limitations was overly conservative. With proper physical preparation, young spirit masters could achieve far more than most people believed possible.
Yu Xiaogang walked in thoughtful silence, his mind reeling from the implications of what he had witnessed. Everything he had built his reputation on - his careful calculations, his conservative safety margins, his dismissal of physical conditioning as a minor factor - had been proven wrong in a single afternoon. Two six-year-old boys had just shattered decades of his theoretical work. He would need to completely reconsider his approach to spirit master development, and perhaps acknowledge that his stolen knowledge from Spirit Hall had been incomplete all along.
The journey back to the academy gave them time to practice with their new abilities and discuss their future training plans. Lin Tianyu discreetly used his Desire Compass once more, focusing on finding 'the safest path out of the Spirit Hunting Forest,' and subtly guided their return route with casual suggestions about avoiding areas that seemed too quiet or showed signs of larger predators.
Tang San's improved Blue Silver Grass showed remarkable improvement in both strength and versatility, while Lin Tianyu's Shadow Step provided him with tactical options that transformed his combat capabilities.
When they finally reached Notting Academy, both boys felt like they had taken a major step forward in their journey to become true spirit masters. More importantly, they had proven that with dedication, preparation, and proper guidance, even the most challenging goals could be achieved.