Douluo Continent: From Internal Martial Arts to the Law of Heaven and Earth

I have finally arrived at Tiandou City. A brand new path of cultivation is about to begin. I wonder how far I will ultimately improve here.

Let your thoughts wander freely, let your ideas spread unrestrained, the sun overhead gradually sets in the west, tinged with orange-red afterglow, casting long shadows of the rockery and pavilion onto the flower carpet and the pond surface.

The moon quietly climbed onto the treetops, casting its soft moonlight, which intertwined with the afterglow of the setting sun, covering the courtyard with a gentle halo.

When Tangshan came to his senses, he realized that he had been daydreaming all afternoon, but when he thought about the feeling of his mind soaring and being unrestrained just now, he did not feel that he had wasted his time for meditation.

Feeling the peace within, with the evening breeze bringing the fragrance of flowers and the coolness of spring water, he slowly closed his eyes and began to reflect on his progress in cultivation over the past period, while also setting his goals for the next stage of cultivation.

P.S.: Thank you to Xiaoqiaorenne and Pineapple Snow's Lonely Seeker for the rewards, I am deeply grateful. Thank you to reader 20250115081453561 for the 22 monthly tickets, I am overwhelmed by so many! On a side note, I just discovered that you all are truly kind to Qian Renxue, more than half of your donations came from people who died saving her. Also, these are all free words, so don't worry.

Chapter 86: Cultivation Summary and Planning, Report from the Imperial Palace (Please subscribe to read further)

The previously set goal of studying the application of soul power, that is, creating one's own soul skills, has not made much progress. Obviously, I underestimated the difficulty of creating my own soul skills. This goal can be put aside for the time being, and it will not be too late to continue it in the future after I have a better understanding and application of soul power.

Aside from researching and creating my own soul skills, my current cultivation actually consists of two parts: one is soul power cultivation and meridian research, and the other is internal martial arts cultivation and the development and strengthening of physical qualities.

The former's meridians have already expanded to the Hand Jueyin Pericardium Meridian. At this rate, I should be able to incorporate all twelve meridians into my soul power circulation within one or two years at most. The latter's bones and internal organs will need about one or two more months to be fully refined. This period should be enough time for me to cultivate my soul power to level 20 and obtain my second soul ring.

After summarizing what he had gained during this period, Tangshan began to plan his next stage of spiritual practice.

First, there's the exploration of willpower. I need to find the ideology that best suits my mind, and then transform it into my own will, paving the way for the breakthrough of Dan Jin. As for Hua Jin, I've already filled my entire body with An Jin; all that's lacking is the continuous tempering of my physique. Breaking through to Hua Jin is just a natural progression.

Before reaching the third ring, achieving perfect mastery of internal energy should be a sure thing.

In addition, when breaking through to the second ring, the experiment of will interference soul skill needs to be continued. It is unknown whether the soul skill "self-control" will play a special role in it.

Tang Shan looked up at the bright moonlight, his eyes slightly narrowed, his gaze full of thought.

He looked down at the few carp in the pond, and a surge of soul power slowly emanated from between his fingers, gently probing into the water and creating subtle ripples.

The carp in the pond were clearly startled by the sudden commotion and hurriedly darted and fled in the water.

Tang Shan smiled slightly, withdrew his hand, and with a gentle tremor of his skin, all the water droplets were shaken off, and his palm quickly returned to dryness.

Instead of returning to his room, Tang Shan simply sat cross-legged by the pool and entered a meditative state.

The refined and condensed soul power rises from the dantian and flows into the Lung Meridian of Hand Taiyin. Then, it slowly circulates according to the flow order of the major meridians, transforming the free soul power absorbed from heaven and earth into a part of one's own cultivation, and steadily settling into the dantian.

His cultivation level steadily increased little by little through the continuous circulation of soul power, and his soul power became more and more refined and pure as it flowed.

A faint glow emanated from Tang Shan, giving him a hazy, ethereal aura.

"Your Majesty, which prince do you favor more?"

Ning Fengzhi put down his teacup and looked at Emperor Xueye sitting opposite him.

"I naturally favor Qinghe. After all, he is the eldest son, and he is humble, gentle, and knows how to conduct himself properly."

Emperor Xueye put down the memorial in his hand and slowly responded.

"However, the second brother is also quite good. He is steady and reliable in his work, which makes people feel at ease. Sect Master Ning, if it were you, what would you choose?"

"I would choose Qinghe."

Upon hearing Emperor Xueye's question, Ning Fengzhi did not hesitate at all and quickly gave his answer.

"Although our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School is the second largest sect on the continent, we can only cultivate up to the seventh ring. Not every era has a powerhouse like Bone and Sword Douluo serving as elders. Therefore, to sit on the position of sect leader, excellent social skills and a humble attitude are necessary conditions. For us, being tactful is far more important than being calm and composed. Moreover, true composure is based on thoroughness, and those who are too thorough often find it difficult to tolerate things that are beyond their control."

"I see."

Emperor Xueye seemed to be deep in thought, having already understood the deeper meaning behind Ning Fengzhi's words.

Xue Qinghe is humble and gentle. If he were to ascend to the throne, he would likely adopt a policy of appeasement, which would be the best option for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, which has no offensive capabilities.

As for the Second Prince Xue Shan, he appeared calm and composed in his dealings with others, but Ning Fengzhi saw through the strong desire for control hidden beneath that composure.

Otherwise, a truly steady and prudent person would never establish their prestige in the army so quickly. Such eagerness to seize power would only arouse the suspicion of the current emperor.

If Xue Shan were to ascend to that position, as the ruler of a nation, how could he allow a powerful force like the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School to exist under his command? He would inevitably erode, control, and even force the sect to either submit or become adversaries.

Although the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School is unlikely to be destroyed given its current strength, it will certainly create an irreparable rift between the school and the Heaven Dou Empire.

"Let's wait for Qinghe to return and see what he gained from this trip."

Emperor Xueye didn't say anything more, but he had subconsciously lowered the possibility of Xue Shan inheriting the position of Crown Prince or even the throne. After all, he knew very well that the reason why the throne of the Heaven Dou Empire had been so stable until now was largely due to the fact that successive emperors were skilled in social interaction and maintained excellent relationships with various kingdoms, duchies, and even Soul Master forces.

Otherwise, the royal family would not have any truly top-tier martial spirits, and the highest-ranking royal retainers they painstakingly cultivated would only be Soul Douluo, making it impossible for them to maintain their position for long.

Leaving aside the external threats to the Star Luo Empire, the various factions within the empire have probably already divided up the royal family's prize.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince requests an audience."

A maid gently knocked on the door and respectfully reported to Emperor Xueye.

"Let him in."

Emperor Xueye gave the order in a deep voice.

Soon, Xue Qinghe entered the study with his own friendly smile, bowing to greet the two people inside.

"Greetings, Father Emperor; greetings, Sect Leader Ning."

Looking at Xue Qinghe, who was now radiant and had a more agile and sharp temperament, a glint flashed in Emperor Xueye's eyes.

"Qinghe, it seems you've had quite a haul on your trip to Ironwall City."

Xue Qinghe did not feign modesty, but replied solemnly, "I have indeed come to understand some principles and insights about how to conduct myself in society."

Looking at his outstanding son, Emperor Xueye smiled and nodded: "Have you finished writing your report on this trip? If not, it's fine to submit it later. You've been traveling all day, so get some rest."

Xue Qinghe's smile faded slightly, and his expression became somewhat serious. He took out the memorial he had written with Tang Shan's help from his soul tool, handed it to Emperor Xue Ye with both hands, and said, "Reporting to Father, I have finished writing it. However, some of the contents may be slightly biased. Please forgive me, Father."

Emperor Xueye immediately became interested.

What exactly was written in the memorial that made Xue Qinghe bring up its biased content? And since he knew it was biased, why did he still record it truthfully?

This was exactly the idea Tangshan suggested: first, raise expectations appropriately, so that when Emperor Xueye saw some of the "Second Prince's" actions later, he would be mentally prepared in advance and more likely to accept the subsequent arrangements.

When Xue Qinghe heard Tang Shan's idea, he was amazed and Tang Shan could only helplessly take credit for it.

He couldn't very well explain to Xue Qinghe that it was like wanting to open a window in a house; first, you had to deliberately say you wanted to tear the roof off, and then take a step back and suggest opening a window, which would be more easily accepted.

"Alright, you can leave now and go back to get some rest."

Emperor Xueye did not rush to review the memorials. Seeing the undisguised exhaustion in Xue Qinghe's eyes, he considerately asked him to step down first.

"Your subject takes his leave."

Xue Qinghe bowed and left the study, walking out of the palace.

She stood outside the palace gates, looking back at the layered, magnificent palace complex, a flame of ambition burning in her eyes.

His slender hand slowly rose to his eyes, his five fingers slightly curled, as if he wanted to firmly grasp the entire palace in his palm.

"Sooner or later, everything here will be mine."

……

Tang Shan emerged from his meditative state feeling refreshed and invigorated. He reached up to touch his shoulder and found his clothes were damp.

The morning dew had already soaked the fabric.

So Tang Shan simply took off his shirt and started practicing internal martial arts in the courtyard, shirtless. He began with a sinking of the shoulders and a drop of the elbows, powering his limbs from his waist and back. The force of his punches, carrying a booming sound of qi and blood, was like a hidden thunderclap with each strike. The blue bricks beneath his feet trembled slightly, and fine cracks quietly spread. His qi and blood surged like a tide in his meridians, and warm energy flowed throughout his body, relaxing his muscles and bones wherever it passed. The chill of the early morning was instantly dispelled, and his skin glowed with a healthy red.

The punches, hooks, and sweeps are connected smoothly and effortlessly. The moves are fierce and powerful yet disciplined. Hidden strength is concealed beneath the fists, and the air seems to be compressed at the point of contact, creating faint ripples of energy.

A thin mist hung in the courtyard. The mist touched Tang Shan's warm skin, instantly turning into a fine layer of water vapor that slid down his smooth muscle lines before quickly dissipating upwards. In the hazy mist, Tang Shan's figure seemed shrouded in a dreamlike cloud of smoke. His muscles rippled with each move, outlining strong lines. His punches were powerful and domineering, yet also possessed a graceful and agile quality. Every breath was perfectly synchronized with his movements, drawing upon the faint spiritual energy of heaven and earth, resonating with the blood and qi within his body.

As the sun gradually rose, Tang Shan, who had just finished his morning exercise, went into his room to tidy up a bit when there was a knock on the door outside the courtyard.

"coming."

Tang Shan walked curiously to the door, opened the courtyard gate, and saw Xue Qinghe standing outside, followed by a row of maids.

"Greetings, Your Highness."

Tang Shan saw that Xue Qinghe was followed by servants, so he quickly put away his casual manner and bowed respectfully.

"It's alright, no need to be so polite with me." Xue Qinghe waved his hand, then turned to the maids behind him and ordered, "Bring everything in."

Under Tang Shan's watchful gaze, four maids carried a huge stone table into the courtyard. Judging from the faint fluctuations of soul power emanating from them, they clearly possessed a certain amount of innate soul power, but most likely, like Yu Xiaogang, they were only at the half-level, at most able to slightly enhance their physical attributes with their soul power.

"Your Highness, what is this?"

Looking at the stone table that had suddenly appeared in front of him, Tang Shan was a little confused and asked in bewilderment.

"I'd like to learn more about the cultivation methods of internal martial arts from you. I'll probably come and practice with you in the mornings from now on, and we can have lunch together afterwards. What do you think?"

"Of course, you're welcome."

Tang Shan had no reason to refuse Xue Qinghe's request, and he could also gradually reverse Xue Qinghe's previous laxity in cultivation by sticking to his morning exercise.

clap clap!

Xue Qinghe clapped twice, and then one by one, the maids, each carrying a small basket, entered the courtyard, opened the baskets, and placed the exquisite breakfast items inside on the stone table.

Once all the maids had taken the food out of their baskets, the stone table, which was about three or four square meters in size, was filled with a dazzling array of breakfast dishes, their aroma filling the air.

"Let's eat first, and then I'll tell you about the information I've gathered over the past few days about second-ring soul beasts that are suitable for you."

Upon hearing that Xue Qinghe had found quite a few suitable soul beasts, Tang Shan was overjoyed. He stopped being polite with Xue Qinghe and sat down at the stone table to eat heartily.

Clearly, Xue Qinghe had put thought into this breakfast. Having spent these days together, she had already figured out Tang Shan's appetite. Today's breakfast was not only exquisite and delicious, but also very generous in portion, which was just right for Tang Shan's appetite after his cultivation.

"This is a porridge made with ground beef and pearl rice, and this is steamed snow eggs with century-old lotus seeds. This is a bun made with golden wheat flour and antelope meat..."

Xue Qinghe pointed to the breakfast menu on the table, picked up his utensils, and ate with Tang Shan.

Chapter 87 Ultimate Attributes, External Soul Bone, and the Wrath of Emperor Xueye

This breakfast is extremely nutritious, with ingredients ranging from rare and precious herbs to the body tissues of spirit beasts. Once it enters the mouth and stomach, it is quickly digested and divided into three streams of energy.

The first surge of heat enters the blood and qi, merging with it and continuously enhancing Tangshan's physical fitness;

The second warm current enters the meridians, transforming into gentle energy. While nourishing the meridians, it settles within them, quietly waiting for Tangshan to refine it and transform it into a part of his cultivation.

A third cool current of air traveled up the Du meridian, penetrating deep into the mind and nourishing Tang Shan's spirit.

Wow, this breakfast not only tastes amazing, but it also nourishes your energy and spirit. Tangshan was filled with emotion and could only say that having a powerful patron is truly wonderful, and being a kept man is incredibly satisfying.

After seeing that Tang Shan had finished eating and drinking, Xue Qinghe sent someone in to clear away the dishes. Once all the maids had left, she took out several documents from her storage soul tool and handed them to Tang Shan, explaining in detail: "The main gathering places for soul beasts in our Douluo Continent are just a few: the Star Dou Great Forest, the Sunset Forest next to Tian Dou City, and the far north. Your requirement is for power-type soul beasts around four to five thousand years old. I have mainly sent people to search in the Sunset Forest and the Star Dou Great Forest. As for the far north, firstly, it is too conspicuous, and secondly, the vast majority of them are ice-attribute soul beasts, so there is not much point in searching there."

Hearing that Xue Qinghe had actually dispatched people to search the Sunset Forest and Star Dou Great Forest, two habitats of spirit beasts, was somewhat unexpected for Tang Shan. In his view, sending people to even one place to help him search was already a significant investment. After all, Tang Shan required spirit beasts to be four to five thousand years old. To escape safely from spirit beasts of that level, one would need at least the cultivation level of a Spirit Master. Considering the need to prevent unforeseen circumstances, it would be safer for each spirit master searching for spirit beasts to be a Spirit King.

In other words, Xue Qinghe dispatched a large number of Soul Kings to help him find suitable Soul Beasts. Moreover, judging from her words, if the environment in the far north were not so harsh and the risks too high, she would have sent people to that place to investigate.

"Your Highness, that's enough, absolutely enough. There's no need to go to the far north." Tang Shan quickly thanked him, while trying to dissuade Xue Qinghe from sending people to the far north.