MTLNOVEL Chapter 14: Chapter 14: The Calm Before the Storm
The coliseum had grown quiet after the explosive conclusion of the finals. Shrek Academy's victory was undeniable, but the atmosphere was heavy with tension. Spirit Hall's blatant interference and their unveiled threat had left everyone uneasy.
Back in their temporary quarters, the Shrek team sat in a circle. The usual post-battle excitement was absent, replaced by a grim silence. Even Dai Mubai, known for his confidence and bravado, appeared pensive.
Lin Tian sat at the center, his presence commanding yet calm. His golden eyes scanned each of his companions, taking in their expressions of concern and unease. Yue'er, as always, stood silently beside him, her protective aura enveloping him.
"Spirit Hall's interference today wasn't just about me," Lin Tian began, breaking the silence. "It was a declaration of war against Shrek Academy and everyone who opposes their ambitions."
Tang San leaned forward, his expression serious. "Lin Tian is right. Spirit Hall wouldn't have revealed their hand unless they believed they could gain something significant. Their actions today were calculated. They were testing us, and more specifically, they were testing Lin Tian."
Oscar frowned. "But why? Why target Lin Tian so openly? It's not like he's the only strong spirit master in the tournament."
Yue'er spoke for the first time, her voice soft yet firm. "It's because Master's potential threatens their plans. Spirit Hall's ultimate goal is to dominate the continent, and they see Master as an obstacle they must remove before he grows too powerful."
Rongrong's brows furrowed. "But what about the rest of us? Won't Spirit Hall target us too, just to get to Lin Tian?"
"They will," Lin Tian confirmed. "Which is why we need to be prepared. This is no longer just a tournament—it's the start of a larger conflict. We can't afford to let our guard down."
---
A Letter from Spirit Hall
As the group continued their discussion, Flender entered the room, holding a sealed letter. His expression was unreadable as he handed it to Lin Tian.
"This just arrived," Flender said. "It's addressed to you."
Lin Tian opened the letter carefully, his eyes scanning the elegant script.
To Lin Tian, the Rising Star of Shrek Academy,
Your display of strength in the finals has caught our attention. Spirit Hall acknowledges your talent and extends an invitation to join our ranks. Refusal, however, will not be taken lightly. Consider this offer carefully. The choice you make will determine the fate of those around you.
Signed, Elder Yue Lan, Spirit Hall.
The room erupted in outrage as Lin Tian finished reading.
"They dare to send a letter like that after everything they've done?" Dai Mubai growled, slamming his fist on the table.
"They're not just arrogant—they're desperate," Tang San said, his voice cold. "They know Lin Tian won't join them, but this letter is a way to force his hand. It's a threat disguised as an invitation."
Lin Tian folded the letter and placed it on the table. "They've shown their cards, but so have we. Spirit Hall will keep coming after us, but we won't let them dictate our path. From now on, we move with caution and purpose."
---
The Aftermath of Victory
The day after the finals, the city was abuzz with celebration. Shrek Academy had become the talk of the continent, their victory solidifying their reputation as one of the strongest academies.
Despite the festive atmosphere, Lin Tian remained vigilant. He walked through the bustling streets with Yue'er by his side, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of danger.
"Master," Yue'er said softly, "do you think Spirit Hall will make their next move soon?"
"They're unpredictable," Lin Tian replied. "But one thing is certain—they won't stay quiet for long. They'll strike again, and when they do, we'll be ready."
As they continued walking, a group of children ran up to them, their faces filled with awe.
"Are you Lin Tian from Shrek Academy?" one of the boys asked, his eyes shining with admiration.
Lin Tian smiled and knelt to their level. "Yes, I am. What's your name?"
"Jin!" the boy exclaimed. "You were amazing in the finals! I want to be strong like you someday!"
Lin Tian placed a hand on Jin's shoulder. "Strength isn't just about power, Jin. It's about protecting the people you care about. Remember that, and you'll become a great spirit master."
The boy nodded enthusiastically before running off with his friends. Yue'er watched the exchange with a small smile, her heart warming at Lin Tian's kindness.
"You have a way with people, Master," she said softly.
Lin Tian stood and turned to her, his expression thoughtful. "People like Jin are the reason we fight. Spirit Hall's ambition threatens the peace of this world. I won't let them take that away."
---
A Sudden Encounter
Later that evening, Lin Tian and Yue'er returned to their quarters to find Flender waiting for them. His usually composed demeanor was replaced with unease.
"We have a guest," Flender said. "She claims to have information about Spirit Hall."
Curious, Lin Tian followed Flender into the main hall, where a woman with fiery red hair stood waiting. Her presence was striking, and her sharp eyes exuded confidence.
"My name is Huo Ling," she introduced herself. "I was a member of Crimson Flame Academy, but more importantly, I've worked for Spirit Hall in the past. I've come to warn you about what's coming."
Lin Tian crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. "Why should we trust you?"
Huo Ling met his gaze without flinching. "Because I've seen what Spirit Hall is capable of. They're not just targeting you—they're preparing for something far bigger. If you don't act now, it might be too late."
"What do you mean?" Tang San asked, stepping forward.
Huo Ling hesitated before answering. "Spirit Hall is gathering resources and manpower to create an army of spirit masters loyal only to them. Their goal is to eliminate any opposition and establish absolute control over the continent. And you, Lin Tian, are one of the few people who can stop them."
The room fell silent as the weight of her words sank in.
"What do you want in return for this information?" Lin Tian asked, his voice calm but firm.
"Protection," Huo Ling admitted. "I betrayed Spirit Hall by coming here. If they find me, they'll kill me."
Lin Tian studied her carefully before nodding. "You'll have our protection. But if you're lying, there will be consequences."
Huo Ling smiled faintly. "I wouldn't expect anything less."
---
A Plan Takes Shape
With Huo Ling's information, the Shrek team began formulating a plan to counter Spirit Hall's growing influence.
"We need allies," Flender said. "If what Huo Ling says is true, we can't fight Spirit Hall alone. We'll need the support of the major powers on the continent."
"Sea God Island, Star Luo Empire, Heaven Dou Empire, and even some independent academies might align with us," Tang San suggested.
Lin Tian nodded. "We'll reach out to them, but we need to act quickly. Spirit Hall won't sit idle while we gather strength."
Yue'er stepped forward. "Master, I'll handle the communication with Sea God Island. My abilities will allow me to travel quickly and discreetly."
Lin Tian placed a hand on her shoulder. "Be careful, Yue'er. Spirit Hall will be watching for any signs of movement."
She nodded, her resolve unwavering. "I'll return safely, Master."
---
The Calm Before the Storm
As night fell, Lin Tian stood on the balcony, gazing at the stars. The events of the past few days weighed heavily on his mind, but his determination burned brighter than ever.
Yue'er approached him quietly, her presence as soothing as the moonlight. "Master, are you worried?"
Lin Tian glanced at her, his expression softening. "A little. But I know we'll overcome this. Together."
Yue'er hesitated before speaking. "Master, no matter what happens, I'll always be by your side. You're not alone in this fight."
Lin Tian smiled faintly. "I know, Yue'er. And I'm grateful for you."
As the stars glittered above, the two stood side by side, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a silver glow over Shrek Academy's temporary quarters. Lin Tian leaned against the balcony railing, his mind heavy with thoughts of Spirit Hall's looming threat. Yue'er's presence beside him was a silent comfort, her unwavering loyalty a source of strength.
---
A Meeting of Minds
The next morning, the Shrek team gathered in the central hall to discuss their next steps. Huo Ling's intel had given them a clearer picture of Spirit Hall's plans, but it had also revealed the sheer scale of the enemy they faced.
Flender addressed the group, his tone serious. "Spirit Hall isn't just targeting us. They're moving against the entire continent. If we're going to stop them, we need to unite the forces that oppose them."
Tang San nodded. "The Heaven Dou Empire and Star Luo Empire are our best options for military support. Sea God Island has unparalleled spiritual knowledge, and their forces would be invaluable. But convincing them won't be easy."
"Leave Sea God Island to me," Yue'er said, stepping forward. "Their guardian spirit masters are highly vigilant, but I have connections there. I can open a path for negotiations."
Flender looked at her, nodding. "Good. But be careful. Spirit Hall will be watching for any movements toward Sea God Island."
"While Yue'er handles that," Lin Tian said, his voice calm yet commanding, "we'll begin building alliances with the Heaven Dou and Star Luo Empires. Huo Ling, you've worked for Spirit Hall. Can you provide us with a list of their current movements and strongholds?"
Huo Ling hesitated for a moment before nodding. "I can. But the most important thing you need to know is that Spirit Hall has already infiltrated the courts of both empires. They have spies and sympathizers everywhere."
Oscar frowned. "That complicates things. How do we know we can trust anyone?"
Tang San placed a hand on his chin, deep in thought. "We'll have to approach this carefully. We need allies, but we can't reveal too much too soon."
Lin Tian's golden eyes glimmered with resolve. "We'll start with those we can trust—people who have already shown their loyalty to justice and balance. The rest will come later."
---
A Test of Loyalty
Later that day, Lin Tian called Huo Ling aside for a private conversation. The two stood in the quiet courtyard, away from prying ears.
"Huo Ling," Lin Tian began, his tone measured, "I need to know why you truly left Spirit Hall. Betraying them is no small decision, and your life is now in constant danger because of it."
Huo Ling's gaze faltered for a moment before she met his eyes. "At first, I joined Spirit Hall because I believed in their vision. They promised unity and strength for all spirit masters. But over time, I saw their true nature—how they manipulate and destroy anyone who opposes them."
She paused, her voice heavy with emotion. "They forced me to do things I can never take back. When I saw what they were planning for this tournament—using it as a platform to send a message of fear—I knew I couldn't stay silent anymore."
Lin Tian studied her carefully, his expression unreadable. "And what do you want now? Revenge? Redemption?"
Huo Ling's voice softened. "I want to make things right, if that's even possible. I want to fight against the monster I once served."
Lin Tian nodded slowly. "If that's the truth, then you have my trust. But know this—if you betray us, I won't hesitate to deal with you myself."
Huo Ling nodded, her resolve firm. "I understand. I won't let you down."
---
Preparing for Departure
The next morning, Yue'er prepared to leave for Sea God Island. She stood in the courtyard, her elegant figure draped in a cloak that shimmered faintly in the sunlight.
Lin Tian approached her, his expression calm but concerned. "Are you sure about this? It's dangerous, even for someone as skilled as you."
Yue'er smiled softly. "Master, you've always taught me to face challenges head-on. I'll be careful, and I'll return with allies for our cause."
Lin Tian reached into his storage ring and retrieved a small crystal pendant glowing with faint golden light. "Take this. It's a protective artifact. If you're in danger, it will activate automatically."
Yue'er accepted the pendant, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Thank you, Master. I'll treasure it."
As she prepared to leave, the rest of the team gathered to see her off. Tang San handed her a sealed letter.
"This contains information about Spirit Hall's known movements," he explained. "If you encounter anyone who's willing to help, share this with them."
Yue'er nodded, her gaze sweeping over the group. "Take care of Master while I'm gone. I'll return as soon as I can."
With that, she vanished into the distance, her figure blending seamlessly with the horizon.
---
Spirit Hall's Shadow
Meanwhile, in a hidden chamber deep within Spirit Hall's headquarters, a group of high-ranking elders gathered around a circular table. At the head of the table sat Yue Lan, her expression unreadable as she addressed the group.
"Lin Tian and his companions have proven to be more troublesome than anticipated," Yue Lan said, her voice cold. "Their victory in the tournament has rallied public support, and their strength continues to grow."
A male elder frowned. "Why not deal with them directly? Send an elite squad to eliminate them before they can cause more trouble."
Yue Lan shook her head. "No. That would only make them martyrs. We need to discredit them first—turn public opinion against them. Then we'll strike when they're at their weakest."
Another elder leaned forward. "And what of Huo Ling? She knows too