Death Spider King

As the trio ventured deeper into the Great Star Dou Forest, Zang Wei and Bibi Dong couldn't help but marvel at the incredible diversity of spirit beasts that called this place home. The forest seemed to teem with life, each creature more fascinating than the last.

Jin Louyu chuckled softly at their excitement, finding their youthful enthusiasm quite endearing.

In most cases, youngsters their age were not allowed to venture so deep into the forest, especially not for the purpose of hunting their first spirit rings. Typically, they would be guided through smaller, safer forests by their classroom teachers, gradually learning the skills necessary to survive in the wild.

However, as the future pillars of Spirit Hall, Zang Wei and Bibi Dong had been granted special privileges. The Spirit Hall Academy had invested significant resources in their education, ensuring they were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Seeing Zang Wei's tireless dedication to study and training had inspired Bibi Dong and their classmates to put in more effort as well.

Zang Wei had spent the past five years diligently cultivating and studying, rarely taking breaks. The few moments of respite he did allow himself were usually spurred by his classmates' invitations, like when Yue Guan organized camping trips.

These occasional outings were the only times Zang Wei relented in his intense training regimen.

He often yearned to ease up on his rigorous routine, but the thought of his family back at the orphanage, relying on him for their well-being, kept him going. He couldn't bear the idea of letting them down.

Observing Zang Wei's unwavering dedication had motivated his classmates to push themselves harder as well, although they couldn't match his level of commitment. Zang Wei noticed the changes in their attitudes but said nothing, content that they were making progress.

With a Level 98 Hyper Douluo accompanying them, Zang Wei and Bibi Dong felt relatively at ease as they scoured the forest for a suitable spirit beast. Zang Wei had a particular plan in mind: he intended to acquire a 10,000-year-old spirit ring for both of his martial spirits.

While his master, Qian Daoliu, had initially suggested waiting until a later stage of cultivation to add spirit rings to their second martial spirits, Zang Wei had his own reasons.

His Twin Martial Spirit, paired with the Yin Yang Complement technique, allowed him to maximize the benefits of physical training, far exceeding the usual results. Additionally, the Life Wine Gourd was incredibly beneficial for his physical conditioning and served as an emergency resource.

Qian Daoliu had advised Zang Wei to share the Yin Yang Complement technique with his family at the orphanage only when he could develop additional techniques to make it impossible for others to steal. They also needed safeguards to prevent unauthorized sharing.

Zang Wei had readily agreed to his master's advice, understanding that openly sharing such a technique could attract unnecessary attention. He intended to develop more techniques and safeguards to protect his family.

He had also come across books in the Spirit Hall's archives that hinted at the concept of spirit beasts sacrificing their entire cultivation for the benefit of spirit masters. This notion intrigued him, and he believed that exploring this field could yield new discoveries that would benefit Spirit Hall and strengthen their ranks.

Despite their diligent search, several days passed, and the trio had yet to encounter any spirit beasts that piqued their interest. The forest's vastness seemed to hold endless secrets, and they remained determined to find the perfect spirit beasts for Zang Wei and Bibi Dong.

The days in the Great Star Dou Forest passed by, filled with exploration and anticipation. Zang Wei, Bibi Dong, and Jin Louyu continued to delve deeper into the forest, marveling at the diverse array of spirit beasts that called this place home.

Zang Wei couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the knowledge and opportunities he had received at Spirit Hall Academy. The dedication and hard work he had put into his studies and training were starting to pay off.

He knew that every step he took in the forest was a step towards becoming a stronger Spirit Master.

Bibi Dong had also grown immensely during these five years. Her determination to keep up with Zang Wei had pushed her to new heights. She had become a formidable force in her own right, and her determination to acquire an older spirit ring burned just as brightly as Zang Wei's.

Jin Louyu observed them with a proud smile. He saw potential in these young Spirit Masters, a potential that could one day elevate Spirit Hall to even greater heights.

He knew that their journey in the Great Star Dou Forest was more than just a hunt for spirit rings; it was a test of their character and resilience.

As they continued their search for a suitable spirit beast, the trio maintained their focus. They knew that the right opportunity would present itself when the time was right.

Spirit beasts in the 10,000-year range were rare and elusive, and capturing one required patience and strategy.

Zang Wei occasionally broke the silence with a thoughtful remark, "Master, do you think it's possible for a spirit master to cultivate the abilities of a spirit beast they've absorbed a spirit ring from?"

Jin Louyu considered the question for a moment, "It's a possibility, young one. Spirit Masters are known for their adaptability and creativity.

If one were to study a spirit beast's abilities thoroughly and possess the necessary understanding, it might be feasible."

Bibi Dong chimed in, her curiosity piqued, "But wouldn't that require extensive knowledge of spirit beasts and their abilities? It sounds like a daunting task."

Jin Louyu nodded, "Indeed, it would be a challenging endeavor. Spirit Masters often focus on their own martial spirits and abilities.

However, there have been instances in history where individuals have attempted to emulate spirit beast abilities. It's a path fraught with difficulties, but not impossible."

Their conversation continued as they scoured the forest for signs of a suitable spirit beast. With each passing day, their determination only grew stronger, and they knew that their patience and perseverance would eventually be rewarded with the spirit rings they sought.

...

After days of relentless searching, Zang Wei, Bibi Dong, and Jin Louyu finally stumbled upon a spirit beast that seemed to be a perfect fit for Bibi Dong. It bore a name similar to her martial spirit, the Death Spider King.

The discovery of the Death Spider King filled Bibi Dong with excitement and anticipation. She believed that this spirit beast could potentially unlock new abilities for her martial spirit, the Death Spider Emperor.

He playfully suggested that she might now be capable of spitting webs from her posterior, a remark that earned him a swift and furious reaction.

"Hey, Dong Dong, now that you're the Death Spider Queen, maybe you'll surprise us all and start spitting webs from your peaches!" 

"What did you just say!? And what with that nickname, Smelly Wei!?"

Bibi Dong attempted to punch him in the face, but Zang Wei deftly dodged her attack, leaving her huffing in annoyance. But she couldn't stay mad for long, and their laughter echoed through the forest.

Once the momentary tension had passed, Bibi Dong turned to Jin Louyu, her eyes gleaming with excitement. She politely asked for his assistance in hunting the Death Spider King, a request to which Jin Louyu readily agreed.

However, he turned to address both youngsters with a contemplative look.

He proposed a more engaging challenge, asking if they wanted to contribute to the hunt in some way. Their eager nods and shining eyes revealed their unbridled enthusiasm. This was an opportunity beyond their wildest dreams—to fight alongside a Level 98 Hyper Douluo against a 10,000-year-old spirit beast.

It was an opportunity they had never expected to embark upon so soon.

Yet, their rationality kicked in as Zang Wei inquired about the specifics. He pointed out that their current strength might not be sufficient to withstand the oppressive aura of the Death Spider King.

Jin Louyu chuckled, appreciating Zang Wei's level-headedness. The Death Spider King was indeed a formidable opponent, and it would be too dangerous for them at their current level.

However, he did propose an alternative.

He suggested that after they obtained their spirit rings and gained more experience, they could try their hand at hunting weaker spirit beasts to gain valuable combat experience. This idea resonated with Zang Wei and Bibi Dong, who saw it as an opportunity to grow stronger and prepare for future challenges.

With the Death Spider King still in their sights, they decided to proceed with the hunt, but Jin Louyu would handle the majority of the combat. Zang Wei and Bibi Dong would just observe and learn.

As Jin Louyu initiated the battle with the Death Spider King, he made it clear that he would demonstrate how to fight a spirit beast, focusing on using his first three spirit skills. Zang Wei and Bibi Dong nodded in agreement, eager to observe and learn from the experienced Hyper Douluo.

Closing the distance to the formidable Death Spider King, Jin Louyu wasted no time in launching his first spirit skill, the Golden Crocodile Golden Roar. Multiple beams of golden energy shot towards the spirit beast's head, aiming for its vulnerable eyes.

The impact of the beams caused the Death Spider King to emit an ear-piercing screech, so loud that both Zang Wei and Bibi Dong instinctively covered their ears.

In response to the attack, the Death Spider King reacted swiftly. It released a vast web, covering the entire area and obscuring their vision. Simultaneously, it exuded a sinister Death Miasma from its pores, creating an oppressive atmosphere.

Jin Louyu, aware of the Death Spider King's abilities, allowed the situation to unfold to demonstrate to the young disciples how to handle such challenges.

Zang Wei and Bibi Dong, though momentarily disoriented by the sudden web and the oppressive aura, watched attentively. They understood that this experience was a valuable lesson, providing them with firsthand knowledge of how to confront and adapt to the tactics and abilities of powerful spirit beasts.

Jin Louyu, still maintaining his composure, began to navigate the challenging situation, showcasing his mastery of combat. He intended to teach Zang Wei and Bibi Dong not only how to engage with spirit beasts effectively but also how to remain composed under pressure, a crucial skill for future spirit masters.

As the Death Spider King screeched and released its web, enveloping the area in its sticky embrace, Jin Louyu remained undaunted. With experience and composure, he activated his second spirit skill, the Golden Crocodile King Scale Armor.

His body shimmered with a golden aura as his skin toughened and became as resilient as the scales of a crocodile.

Despite the oppressive Death Miasma, Jin Louyu maintained his focus and continued to demonstrate his skills to Zang Wei and Bibi Dong. He knew this was a valuable teaching opportunity, and he wanted them to witness how to confront and adapt to a challenging situation.

With the protective Scale Armor in place, Jin Louyu sprang into action. He swiftly moved through the thick, sticky web with ease, demonstrating his agility. He then activated his third spirit skill, the Golden Crocodile King Chomp.

His jaw extended unnaturally wide as he clamped down on the Death Spider King's leg, delivering a powerful bite.

The Death Spider King writhed in pain, attempting to strike back with its deadly fangs and claws. Jin Louyu skillfully evaded its attacks, showcasing his combat prowess and control over his spirit skills. He managed to disarm the spirit beast, making it vulnerable.

After showing the youngsters what they needed to do in multiple situations and how to use their skills effectively, Jin Louyu decided it was time to conclude the battle. With one final display of power, he unleashed a devastating attack that incapacitated the Death Spider King.

It was a triumphant moment as he demonstrated the culmination of his years of experience and mastery over his martial spirit.

Turning to Bibi Dong, Jin Louyu nodded in approval. He understood that it was time for her to complete the hunt and absorb the spirit ring. Bibi Dong stepped forward, her eyes filled with determination, and wanted to swiftly end the life of the Death Spider King, ensuring a successful spirit ring absorption.

But before she can kill the spirit beast, Zang Wei shouted, "Wait for a second Dong Dong!"