Chapter 13: THE CRIMSON SERPENT’S TRIAL
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The desert landscape changed dramatically as GODFIFA's group traveled deeper into the wilderness. The golden sands gave way to red-hued dunes, and the air carried an oppressive heat that felt almost alive. This part of the desert was infamous: the Crimson Serpent's Domain, a region ruled by a mysterious beast known to slaughter intruders indiscriminately.
"We're being watched," Medusa said, her tone sharp as her violet eyes scanned the horizon.
Xiao Yan and Xuner tensed, but GODFIFA's calm expression didn't waver.
"I know," he said, his voice steady. "Let it come. I've been waiting for an opportunity like this."
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The First Attack
The ground trembled as a massive serpent burst from beneath the dunes, its scales glinting like molten metal. It was over fifty meters long, its fangs dripping with venom that sizzled on the sand.
"A Dou King-level beast," Xiao Yan whispered, gripping his weapon tightly.
"Higher," Medusa corrected, her expression grim. "It's nearing the Dou Emperor level."
The serpent lunged at GODFIFA, its speed defying its size. But GODFIFA remained rooted in place, his gaze locked onto the beast. Just as it struck, his dou qi erupted, forming a barrier that deflected the attack with a deafening crash.
"Is that all you've got?" he taunted, his voice brimming with confidence.
The serpent hissed, its eyes narrowing with rage.
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The Dance of Power
GODFIFA leaped into the air, his movements as fluid as water. The Talent Tree within his inner space pulsed, its branches glowing as they absorbed the serpent's ambient dou qi.
Cultivation Progress:
Stage: Dou Grandmaster (3-star)
Unique Features:
Energy Vortex: Amplifies absorption speed by 150%.
Battle Suppression: Reduces the opponent's dou qi efficiency by 20%.
With a flick of his wrist, GODFIFA unleashed a torrent of energy, striking the serpent's midsection. The beast roared in pain, its body coiling defensively.
Meanwhile, Xiao Yan and Xuner watched in awe.
"He's on another level," Xiao Yan muttered.
Xuner's admiration deepened, her golden eyes sparkling as she whispered, "He's unstoppable."
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Medusa's Intervention
As GODFIFA engaged the serpent, Medusa stepped forward, her violet hair billowing in the wind.
"Don't think I'll let you have all the fun," she said, a playful smirk on her lips.
With a wave of her hand, she summoned a wave of violet flames that engulfed the serpent. The beast thrashed wildly, but Medusa's flames were relentless, their intensity forcing the serpent to retreat momentarily.
GODFIFA landed beside her, his smirk matching hers. "Not bad, Medusa."
"Don't get cocky," she replied, though her tone carried a hint of admiration.
Their combined assault was devastating. The serpent, overwhelmed by their power, collapsed in a heap, its body twitching as its life force faded.
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The Spoils of Victory
As the serpent took its last breath, its body began to disintegrate, leaving behind a shimmering crimson orb—the Serpent's Core.
System Notification:
Special Energy Source Detected. Would you like to integrate the Serpent's Core into the Talent Tree?
GODFIFA's eyes gleamed. "Yes."
The Talent Tree absorbed the core, its branches growing thicker and radiating an even more potent energy.
Talent Tree Update:
Branch Expansion: Increased capacity for dou qi.
Beast Resonance: Allows partial mimicry of beast traits during combat.
GODFIFA felt a surge of power, his cultivation progressing rapidly.
Cultivation Progress:
Stage: Dou Grandmaster (4-star)
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A Romantic Interlude
Later that night, the group camped near a small oasis. As the others rested, Medusa approached GODFIFA, her expression softer than usual.
"You handled yourself well today," she said, sitting beside him.
GODFIFA chuckled. "Was there ever any doubt?"
She rolled her eyes but smiled. "You're insufferable."
They sat in comfortable silence, the moonlight casting a gentle glow over the oasis. After a while, Medusa spoke again, her tone uncharacteristically hesitant.
"You're different from the men I've known," she admitted. "You don't just chase power—you command it. And yet, you're… kind."
GODFIFA turned to her, his piercing gaze meeting hers. "And you're not just a queen. You're a warrior, a survivor, and someone I deeply respect."
For a moment, their usual banter gave way to something deeper. Medusa leaned closer, her eyes searching his for answers she couldn't quite voice.
"Don't make me regret trusting you," she whispered.
"You won't," he replied, his voice firm yet gentle.
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The Weekly Random Draw
The system chimed again, offering its weekly selection of rare items:
1. Celestial Void Elixir: Temporarily doubles cultivation speed for a month.
2. Infinity Saber Technique: A high-tier offensive Dou Technique.
3. Ancient Soul Resonator: Enhances soul control and perception.
After careful deliberation, GODFIFA chose the Celestial Void Elixir, knowing it would accelerate his cultivation and provide a crucial advantage in the coming battles.
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The Path Forward
As the first rays of dawn broke over the horizon, the group prepared to continue their journey.
Xuner approached GODFIFA, her usual composure replaced by a rare vulnerability. "Thank you for protecting us," she said, her voice soft.
GODFIFA smiled, his tone reassuring. "Always."
With their bonds stronger than ever and their power growing with each step, they ventured onward, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
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