Douluo Dalu: Eclipse de Almas

The sun slowly rose over Thousand Shadows City, its rays filtering through the mist surrounding the mountains. The energy in the air was palpable, as if fate was preparing the inhabitants for something great.

Xu Tian and Yue Lian stood at the entrance of the city, adjusting their equipment and checking supplies. Although they had rested for a few hours after their encounter with the Matriarch, their minds were focused on what was coming: the journey to the legendary Sea God Island.

"Are you sure about this?" asked Xu Tian, ​​casting a glance towards Yue Lian as she checked her storage bag.

"We have no other choice," she replied, determination in her eyes. "If we want to face the Spirit Hall, we must become stronger. This is the only way."

Before Xu Tian could reply, a calm voice interrupted their conversation.

"Ready to go?"

They both turned to meet Tang San, who was approaching with calm steps. Now that they could see him in full light, his presence was even more intriguing. He wore a blue robe that seemed to move with the wind, and carried a peculiar weapon on his back: a black staff with intricate engravings, radiating an ancient and powerful aura.

"So, you are Tang San," Xu Tian said, crossing his arms as he watched him intently. "Why do you decide to join us? This doesn't seem to be just for the Sea God's legacy."

Tang San gave a faint smile. "You're direct. I like that. You're right, I'm not here just for the legacy. I have my own reasons, but our goals seem to align for now. Besides, it's always better to travel with someone than alone, especially in a place as dangerous as Sea God Island."

Yue Lian, who had been silently watching him, finally interjected. "What do you know about that island? The Matriarch seemed quite certain that it would be a deadly test."

Tang San looked at her, his expression turning serious. "I know that Sea God Island is not a place for the weak. It is said to be protected by the Seven Guardians of the Sea, each more powerful than the last. Overcoming their trials requires not only strength, but also will and teamwork. If we are unable to act as a unit, we will fail."

---

After a brief exchange, the group left the city and entered the paths that would take them towards the southern coast of the continent. According to the Matriarch's instructions, Sea God Island was only accessible through a hidden portal, located on an isolated beach known as the Bay of Fallen Stars.

The journey was long and arduous. They passed through dense forests, crossed rushing rivers, and climbed steep hills. During the nights, they camped under the starry sky, and it was during these calm moments that they began to get to know each other better.

One night, as Yue Lian prepared a campfire, Xu Tian watched Tang San, who sat cross-legged, meditating. The spiritual energy around him flowed with stunning precision, as if the world itself responded to his presence.

"Your control of spiritual energy is… different," Xu Tian commented, breaking the silence.

Tang San opened his eyes, a bright blue spark in his gaze. "I have trained all my life to perfect it. But you are no rookie either. The aura of your martial spirit is intense, almost scorching. What is your story?"

Xu Tian hesitated for a moment before answering. "My martial spirit is the Sun of Dawn. It is a family heirloom… but it was not enough to save my family. I was betrayed by those we trusted. Since then, I have trained to ensure it never happens again."

Tang San nodded, understanding the weight behind his words. "Pain may be a cruel master, but also a great motivator. If you channel that force in the right way, you will become unstoppable."

Yue Lian, who had been listening silently, joined the conversation. "Both of you have faced losses. But we must not forget that this is not just a quest for power. It is an attempt to change the world, to prove that light and darkness can coexist."

His words echoed in the air, and for a moment, the three shared a mutual understanding. Although their paths had started out differently, they were now united by a common purpose.

On the third day of travel, they arrived at a narrow gorge that connected to the coastal region. However, something was off. The air was heavy, and a dense mist covered the path.

"This wasn't on the map," Yue Lian commented, her eyes narrowed as she tried to analyse the terrain.

"It's a spirit formation," Tang San said, placing a hand on the ground. "Someone or something is trying to block our path."

Suddenly, a roar echoed in the distance, and a figure emerged from the mist. It was a Twilight Lion, a top-level spirit beast, its golden fur shining with blinding intensity. Its eyes burned with a mix of fury and intelligence, and its presence made the ground beneath their feet tremble.

"A Twilight Lion," Xu Tian muttered, unsheathing his weapon. "This won't be easy."

Tang San smiled lightly, placing both hands on his staff. "Then it will be a good warm-up before we reach the island."

Yue Lian spread out her hands, and a sphere of moonlight began to form between her palms. "Don't underestimate it. These lions are known for their ability to absorb light and transform it into destructive energy."

The Twilight Lion roared again and charged towards them with surprising speed. The group scattered, each taking a strategic position as combat began.