No matter how many times I experience it, I can never get used to it. Its always an unpleasant sensation.
Afterall, every moment before death is a completely different situation.
Wo-woong!
A barrier unfolds on the Flying Immortal Platform under my feet, and the surrounding space stabilizes.
The situation is right after ascending to the Bright Cold Realm.
And then.
That disgusting voice I heard at the end of my last life.
"Make your choice. We'll soon scatter according to the guidance of the Bright Cold Realm's seniors. Which faction will you join?"
I blink my eyes and look around.
Jin Byuk-ho.
Heo Gwak.
Cheongmun Sunwoo.
Seo Hweol...
And.
The Mad Lord.
After looking around once more,
I look at Kim Yeon, who is foaming at her mouth, collapsed next to the Mad Lord.
"...Could you please hold on for a moment?"
Without waiting for Seo Hweol's response, I immediately approach the collapsed Kim Yeon next to the Mad Lord.
The Mad Lord's eyes sparkle, but ignoring his gaze, I immediately press the acupoint of the fainted Kim Yeon.
"Uh, Ugh!"
Kim Yeon gasps for breath and opens her eyes.
"Wha, what? Is that you, Deputy Seo?"
And before Kim Yeon could fully regain her consciousness.
I hugged her tightly.
"Hoho"
The Mad Lord looks at me with interest, and confusion is evident in the eyes of the others.
"Yeon-ah."
I call her name.
"I like you. And I will continue to like you."
The promise I made with her in the last life.
Continuing into the future, into the next life.
Even if the Kim Yeon of the next life is not the one I know.
I promised to love her, over and over again.
So, without hesitation, I held her and confessed.
"Ye, yes?"
Kim Yeon looks around, bewildered, not understanding the situation.
Then, her face suddenly turns bright red.
"Ah, no Is this, a dream?"
While holding her, I infuse her body with the spiritual power of Yuan Lis Blood Body without revealing my Formless Sword.
A small spell is engraved within her body.
A spell so I can continue to track her position in the future.
Since its made referencing the spiritual energy circuits of the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress, theres no worry of being detected by the Mad Lord inside the fortress.
After holding the still confused her a bit longer,
I stand up and speak.
"Sir Jo Yeon."
A madman doesnt understand unless spoken to under the logic of the madman.
However, I have fully understood the logic of this madman by associating with him for over a thousand years..
"Yeon has the qualities of an excellent puppeteer. As someone who was her colleague, I can attest to that."
"Hoh?"
"So, please raise her to be an excellent puppeteer. Someday, I will enter the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress and become one of your [residents]. As a [resident] of the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress, I wish to be controlled by Yeon, who has become a puppeteer. I wish to be controlled by a fully accomplished puppeteer, so please do not modify her too much."
I fully lay bare my infatuation in front of him, saying I wish to be manipulated by the person I love.
Theres no logic more appealing to a madman obsessed with puppets.
As expected, the Mad Lord bursts into tears and claps wildly.
"Ahhh! Beautiful! Okay, okay! I'll do that! I will teach this child well. But, does that mean you want to become a [resident] right now?"
I shake my head.
"No. If you modify me in my current state, you would only get a Qi Building stage puppet. I do not wish for such a weak puppet to be used by Yeon. Therefore, I will train to become a more excellent puppet and will come to the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress on my own someday."
"Aaaaaah!"
The Mad Lord sheds tears of emotion.
"What a splendid fellow! Okay, okay! The doors of the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress will always be open for you!"
Kim Yeon, with a puzzled expression, listens to our conversation, and the Mad Lord, moved to tears, pats my shoulder.
Adjusting my explanation to fit the logic of the madman seems to have made it clear.
'This should be for the best.'
I bow to the Mad Lord and turn around.
I can't take Kim Yeon away from this madman right now.
Its clear that trying to take what he considers his would only make him more agitated and lash out.
I turn my back on the Mad Lord and look at the other forces.
Its obvious who I will go to.
'First.'
"I have always admired the reputation of Azure Tiger Saint Cheongmun Sunwoo, the founder of the Azure Heaven Creation Sect and the great ancestor of the Cheongmun Clan. Since I have had connections with the people of the Cheongmun Clan before, may I have your permission to receive the teachings of Azure Tiger Saint?"
I speak in the language of Byeokra and perform a respectful bow to Azure Tiger Saint.
Azure Tiger Saint laughs heartily with his arms crossed.
"Hahaha! Good! The Azure Heaven Creation Sect does not discriminate against anyone, so you too can become a distinguished disciple of our sect!"
"Thank you!"
And just like last time, when the green-armored wooden man tells us to go to our respective forces,
"DontWantToDontWantToDontWantToDontWantTo ... Do not command me...! [She] is speaking! Silence!"
The Mad Lord, having a tantrum, opens a box and takes out the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress.
Kugugugu!
And, just like last time, the same scene unfolds.
Seo Hweol quickly flees with Gyu-ryeon and the demon beasts, and Azure Tiger Saint erects a familiar barrier.
Kugugugugu!
The blue barrier covers my surroundings.
The sky flashes as the Mad Lord and Four-Axis cultivators collide.
And then.
Swoosh!
The Mad Lord, once again, captures the green-armored wooden man with the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress and flies off into the distance with [Her].
[That madman!]
[Issue a bounty for him!]
The cultivators on the Flying Immortal Platform shout angrily towards the Mad Lord.
As the cultivators are raging against the Mad Lord,
Azure Tiger Saint looks at me worriedly and asks.
"By the way, are you really going to become a puppet to seek out that madman?"
I shake my head.
"No. I only said so because the person who was collapsed next to him is someone I like."
"Hahaha! Brilliant! To deceive that madman, the Mad Lord, for the sake of a comrade!"
Azure Tiger Saint laughs heartily.
Fsssh...
Azure Tiger Saint lifts the barrier, and Jin Byuk-ho and Heo Gwak also release their barriers, laughing.
"That's quite the feat. Deceiving that madman to ensure the safety of a comrade."
"It's a pity. Black Ghost Valley would have treated you well if you chose to come.
Heo Gwak looks at me with their androgynous appearance, licking their lips.
I also show my respect and reply.
"Having a small connection with Elder Song Jin of Azure Ghost Valley, I too feel a bit regretful."
"Oh, with Elder Song?"
"Yes, the great person who decided to stay in the lower realm to protect the Nether Crossing Ship that was destroyed in battle with the Mad Lord."
"Ah, to think you were an acquaintance with Elder Song, truly regrettable. If you had come, we would have treated you well."
"Haha, having had a relationship with the Cheongmun Clan before..."
"Then, it can't be helped..."
After briefly interacting with Heo Gwak,
I then respectfully address Jin Byuk-ho.
"I have something to say to the Sect Master of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect."
"What is it?"
Jin Byuk-ho, who was watching our conversation with interest, asks.
I speak directly without beating around the bush.
"By any chance, do you know about the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect's immortal treasure, the Heavenly Lightning Banner?"
"...? Of course. It's the divine artifact of our sect..."
"Then..."
Without hesitation, I tell Jin Byuk-ho about the contents of the upper stele that was in the lower realm.
"...thus, due to the great war 40,000 years ago, the top part of the stele was damaged. And as I mentioned, possessing the immortal treasure Heavenly Lightning Banner can be dangerous..."
Kwarrrr!
Lightning struck down from the sky towards me.
"...!"
I clench my teeth and collapse as Im struck by the lightning.
[How dare you, spouting nonsense about our sect's immortal treasure as if you know anything about it...!? Do you have any proof that what you're saying is true? If you knew this, why didn't you speak up when we met last time?]
Kurung, Kurung!
Jin Byuk-ho's body is enveloped in golden lightning, transforming into a lightning deity.
[You wouldn't say something absurd like you didn't know this when we met in the lower realm last time, would you? You're not going to tell me that during the few days of our ascension, you found the old temple of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect in the middle of the Heaven-Treading Desert, discovered the top part of the stele in the center of that temple, and deciphered the ancient language to learn all this?]
"..."
He guessed correctly, but admitting it would seem like a mockery to him and will only fuel his anger further.
[Be thankful you joined the Azure Heaven Creation Sect! If it weren't for Azure Tiger Saint's face, I would have turned you into ashes and sold your soul to Black Ghost Valley!]
Pajijijijitt!
After absorbing the golden lightning back into his body, he turns and walks away from the Flying Immortal Platform.
Other cultivators from the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect who have come with him follow suit.
"Hmm, honestly, your words dont carry much credibility, so it's no wonder Master Jin of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect reacted that way. Maybe when you have cultivated more and your words carry more weight, you can try speaking again."
Tap, tap!
Azure Tiger Saint pats my shoulder, and a blue spiritual energy envelops my body, healing my wounds.
"...Thank you."
Woosh!
Then, from above the sky.
The Four-Axis cultivators who failed in their pursuit of the Mad Lord descended.
[First, lets make identity plaques for everyone. Follow me.]
Guided by the Four-Axis cultivators, members of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, Azure Heaven Creation Sect, Black Ghost Valley, as well as various other cultivators from the righteous and devilish alliances followed them.
We descended from the Flying Immortal Platform and moved to another location.
[This place is called Kunlun Castle, located in the domain known as the Kunlun Central Area.]
A blue-skinned cultivator of another race led us and continued explaining.
[With the vitality of the Bright Cold Realm and the opening of spatial rifts connecting to the lower realms, we built the Flying Immortal Platform here to manage those who come from the lower realm. Since numerous races ascend from numerous lower realms, there are no wars or conflicts in this place.]
'Numerous lower realms...'
Indeed, there are other lower realms besides the Head Realm.
'In my past life, I only lived as a puppet for countless years, never having access to proper information.'
At best, I only know when major events will occur.
We follow the Four-Axis cultivator through several gates of Kunlun Castle, moving towards a destination.
When we pass through a large blue jade-colored gate of Kunlun Castle,
Bustle, bustle...
We see a massive crowd.
"Oh, who are these?"
Interest sparkles in Azure Tiger Saint's eyes.
I look at the people in the grand hall, slightly intimidated.
Each one is a Heavenly Being cultivator.
[These are cultivators who ascended from different lower realms than you. They came up using different Flying Immortal Platforms. Kunlun Castle has many such platforms.]
After finishing his words, the Four-Axis cultivator flies up and shouts.
[Cultivators who ascended from the Astral Realm, head over there, and those from the Decaying Corpse Realm, go in that direction!]
Following his words, dozens of cultivators head to their respective destinations.
Azure Tiger Saint asks the Four-Axis cultivator.
"What are the Astral Realm and Decaying Corpse Realm?"
[Oh, I havent explained that to your group yet. To put it simply... was your land flat or round?]
"Um...?"
[The lower realms protected by some invisible force, where the land is flat, are collectively called the Decaying Corpse Realm. The lower realms where the land is round and the sky stretches infinitely are known as the Astral Realm.]
Hearing this, Azure Tiger Saint and others look towards where the Decaying Corpse Realm cultivators go.
"Then we must be from the Decaying Corpse Realm."
Azure Tiger Saint walks among the Decaying Corpse Realm ascended cultivators, and Jin Byuk-ho and White Bone Ghost Devil also lead their respective Heavenly Being elders into that group.
The Heavenly Being cultivators from other lower realms, sensing the early Four-Axis stage auras emanating from Azure Tiger Saint, White Bone Ghost Devil, and Jin Byuk-ho, cautiously step back.
[Now, let's issue the identity plaques. Everyone...]
Azure Tiger Saints Heavenly Being elders, and the Nascent Soul cultivators following them were able to receive their identity plaques.
However, the numerous disciples of the sects brought from the lower realm were told they couldn't all receive identification plaques.
[Damn it! Youre telling me you brought your entire sects to ascend together!? How is that even possible with the spatial pressure increasing to insane levels!?]
The elder of Kunlun Castle responsible for creating identification plaques is visibly frustrated, shouting loudly.
[Are you telling me I have to create identity plaques for millions of these people!? Stop talking nonsense! Make some sense! What kind of monsters are you to collectively ascend your entire sects!? Even if you reduced the burden by deploying formations within compressed spaces, it still doesnt make sense!]
After some arguing, it was decided that the disciples of the three sects would go to the Human Territory to receive their plaques.
And then.
Kugugugugu!
We, led by the Four-Axis cultivators who came to meet us from each race.
Scattered from Kunlun Castle to various racial territories.
"Ha, this is crazy. Our Human Race ascended in such large numbers this time..."
Our Four-Axis guide,
Heo Ryeong, one of the ancestors from Black Ghost Valley, looks at us incredulously.
"Really... Even though they are my latter generation, what have they done?"
"Heo Gwak greets the ancestor."
"...I heard you ascended to the Four-Axis as soon as you ascended. Really... this generation, huh..."
Heo Ryeong looks around at us for a moment, then with a flick of his tongue, floats into the air.
"Now then, everyone follow me! We're going to the Human Territory!"
Including other human cultivators who ascended from different lower realms, those from the three sects took out their flying artifacts and headed towards the Human Territory.
Whooooosh!
Chief Oh Hyeon-seok and I first boarded the flying artifact provided by Azure Tiger Saint and flew off.
I could have flown there directly with my Formless Sword, but fearing I might be mistaken for a spy from the Heart Tribe, I slowly unraveled the Formless Sword from within my body and dispelled it.
The Four-Axis cultivators fly at the front, and since the flying artifact carrying me and Chief Oh follow right behind Azure Tiger Saint, I can hear the conversations among the Four-Axis cultivators.
"Ancestor, could you perhaps give us a brief explanation about the Bright Cold Realm?"
"Sure, it's not anything difficult. Although there mustve been information handed down to you, let me explain first..."
Information regarding the Bright Cold Ream begins to flow from Heo Ryeongs mouth.
"There are three major tribes in the Bright Cold Realm: the Heaven Tribe (), the Earth Tribe (), and the Heart Tribe ()."
"Hmm? But it seemed like there were many more races in the grand hall we were just in..."
One of the Heavenly Being cultivators following behind mutters in confusion, and Heo Ryeong responds.
"That's correct. There are an enormous number of races. However, since it's impossible to know all of them, in the Bright Cold Realm, the characteristics of the races are broadly divided into three: Heaven, Earth, and Heart."
He continues his explanation.
"The criteria for dividing into the three major tribes is just one thing: [Vision].
The Heaven Tribe are those who find rituals suitable for their race, offer sacrifices to the heavens, and possess the eyes to read celestial energy. Our Human Race is included in this category.
The Earth Tribe are those who train their bodies, pushing physical limits to awaken certain senses, possessing the eyes to read the spiritual energy of the Earth. Mostly, the demons born from beasts make up the absolute majority.
And lastly, the Heart Tribe..."
I listen even more intently, focusing on Heo Ryeong's explanation regarding the Heart Tribe.
-x-X-x-
Pausing for a moment, Heo Ryeong frowns slightly.
With a somewhat displeased expression, he says,
"The Heart Tribe, broadly speaking, refers to those capable of reading emotions and the very essence of sentient beings, their heart essence. By mastering what the Heaven Tribe and Earth Tribe call the Heart Path Method, they can perceive the colors of emotions and, furthermore, read minds themselves."
Heo Ryeong, who has been frowning, continues with a look of slight confusion.
"Of course, in reality, these Heart Tribe folks are just grouped together for classification. Compared to the Heaven and Earth tribes, theyre nothing more than dregs. The number of genuine Heart Tribe experts is less than ten thousand, which is insignificant compared to the Heaven and Earth Tribe Masters that are so numerous they cant be counted. Ten thousand, ha! Even my descendants alone number more than that"
'Is the Heart Tribe scarce in high-level cultivators?'
I carefully absorb the basic information about the Bright Cold Realm that Heo Ryeong is providing.
Just then, Azure Tiger Saint, who was listening to Heo Ryeong, asks a question.
"Wait, I have a question, senior. You mentioned that seeing the colors of emotions or cultivating the body is characteristic of the Heart and Earth tribes.... In my case, and in the case of the cultivator Mad Lord Jo Yeon, it's possible to see the colors of intent, and I have also cultivated a method for training the body... If the distinction between tribes is based on the methods cultivated, doesn't that mean there's essentially no difference?"
Heo Ryeong responds with a grin.
"No, there is definitely a difference. As you said, firstly, the Heaven Tribe acquires the ability to read celestial energy by finding their unique ritual method. They can also theoretically obtain the vision of the Earth Tribe by separately training their bodies, and if they acquire the Heart Path Method, they could, in theory, gain the vision of the Heart Tribe. Theoretically, the Heaven Tribe can learn all the methods of the three major tribes. That is why the Heaven Tribe is called the most noble tribe, and why the Human Race of the Heaven Tribe is one of the ruling races of the Bright Cold Realm."
'Then why was I killed last time?'
I feel puzzled as I listen to Heo Ryeong's explanation.
"As for the Earth Tribe, they can theoretically gain the vision of the Heart Tribe if they learn their unique Earth Tribe Method, demon beast methods, and separately the Heart Path Method. However, the Heart Tribe is too foolish to learn either the Heaven or Earth Tribe Methods. They are mere scraps that can only diligently dig into their own Heart Path Method. Among the Heaven Tribe, there are three Star Shattering cultivators, while the Earth Tribe only has two. The Heart Tribe is a pathetic race with only their supreme leader at the Star Shattering stage. Before this leader, they were just a slave race.
I gain an understanding of the Heart Tribe while listening to Heo Ryeong's lengthy criticism.
'I thought they were a tribe specialized in the Heart Path Method.'
They turned out to be a weak race that could only learn the Heart Path Method.
"If those mere ten thousand proper members of the Heart Tribe hadn't all mastered the extremely esoteric Heart Path Method, they would have long been captured and utterly annihilated! While members of the Heaven and Earth Tribes can learn consciousness methods or see the colors of emotions based on experience, they cannot achieve 'beyond that' no matter what.... That's why the Heaven and Earth Tribes are desperately trying to capture members of the Heart Tribe to uncover the secrets of the Heart Path Method."
Theoretically, the Heaven Tribe can learn the Heart Path Method.
But it seems that in practice, there is practically no one in the Heaven Tribe that has succeeded.
Heo Ryeon keeps fiddling with his side as he curses the Heart Tribe.
"...In reality, the Heart Tribe is essentially hunted by the Heaven and Earth Tribes. That's why, at the Flying Immortal Platform, the Heaven and Earth Tribes can welcome disciples ascending from the lower realms, but the Heart Tribe is not granted this right."
'I see blue lines converging there.'
I read his intent and guess.
Judging by his behavior and psychology, it seems he once had a piece of his side torn away by a member of the Heart Tribe.
After a while of ranting about the Heart Tribe, Heo Ryeong also talks about other races.
The powers, types, etc., of all the races in the Bright Cold Realm.
I absorb the information I couldn't properly learn before when I was captured and modified by the currently wanted Mad Lord.
"In the Bright Cold Realm, there is one Sacred Vessel Sacred Master, five Star Shattering Esteemed Ones, one Star Shattering Heart Tribe Esteemed One, and Integration Grand Cultivators are scarce, ranging from several to only one or two per race. Also"
For a while, I listened to Heo Ryeong explain basic information about the Bright Cold Realm.
Finally, we arrived at the place called the Human Territory .
Kugugugu!
'So this place is the Human Territory ...'
I look at the majestic scenery unfolding before my eyes with a small exclamation of awe.
Fwoosh!
A region covered in white clouds from all sides.
Breaking through the clouds, we can see massive Sky Islands floating in every direction.
Dozens, even hundreds of Sky Islands, similar to Ascension Path, are floating above the white clouds.
Each of the Sky Islands are covered with a faint spherical barrier.
"This is the Cloud Island Archipelago, where our Human Race has settled. First, you should head to the smallest Sky Island over there, known as Temporal Fate Island, and issue identity badges to the disciples. After that, everyone must disperse."
"Hmm, must we separate?"
Azure Tiger Saint asks with a hint of regret as he looks around the scenery.
"Yes. If you were all at the Heavenly Being stage, it wouldn't have been an issue... but aren't all the leaders of each faction at the Four-Axis stage?"
Heo Ryeong crosses his arms and speaks.
"According to the regulations of the Human Territory, having more than three Four-Axis Masters in one Sky Island is restricted.
"Hmm, well, that's fine. It would be annoying if the three sects sat in one place and quarreled over resources."
Jin Byuk-ho nods in agreement.
"Let's go to Temporal Fate Island then."
Thus, we fly towards the place called Temporal Fate Island.
During our journey, something felt off.
"...? Wait, something's strange."
Azure Tiger Saint furrows his brows.
I, too, squint towards Temporal Fate Island, which is gradually getting closer in the distance.
'Something about the perspective...'
And shortly after,
Not only I, but also Azure Tiger Saint, Jin Byuk-ho, and Heo Gwak's faces are all etched with astonishment.
'That, that is...'
The thin veils that cover each Sky Island are expanding into thick barriers with immense power.
And what seemed like a Sky Island the size of Ascension Path size at most, starts to grow tremendously large.
'This is insane...'
Kugugugugu!
"Lets enter Temporal Fate Island!"
Temporal Fate Island, the smallest island, boasted its insane size as we approached it closer.
Ascension Path?
Its incomparable to that.
Its rather....
'The Heaven-Treading Desert...?'
It boasts a size that combines the three countries of Byeokra, Yanguo, and Shengzi.
The size of the Heaven-Treading Desert occupies a quarter of the Head Realm's continent, an immense size!
I look at the other dozens of 'islands' visible beyond Temporal Fate Island.
'Those, from a distance, are at least six to ten times larger than Temporal Fate Island...'
In my previous life, I was trapped in the body of General Seo and spent most of my time inside the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress, so I couldn't grasp the scale of the Bright Cold Realm.
But now, I truly feel it.
The Bright Cold Realm.
The Human Territory within the Heaven Tribe's domain.
Each of these numerous Sky Islands in the Human Territory is about the size of the Head Realm I had lived in or slightly smaller.
"Open!"
Swoosh!
As Heo Ryeong gesturs towards the vast barrier, reminiscent of the ocean, the barrier in front of us splits, creating a massive hole large enough for us all to enter at once.
"Go in."
"..."
We, momentarily stunned, follow without a word into Temporal Fate Island.
Kugugugugu!
Temporal Fate Island is a place where strong winds blow fiercely.
The area seems more like a wasteland, overflowing with rocks, stones, and sand, rather than a place suitable for living.
"Follow me!"
We follow Heo Ryeong to one side of Temporal Fate Island, a rocky mountain area.
When Heo Ryeong forms a hand seal, one of the mountains gradually becomes transparent, revealing a huge palace hidden inside.
A gigantic palace, the size of a whole mountain, greets us.
"Everyone, go in and receive your identity plaques!"
Heo Ryeong forms another hand seal and pulls out thousands of ghosts from his sleeve.
His ghosts lead the disciples of the three sects, numbering in the millions, to different areas, and we each follow the groups of ghosts, receiving identity plaques in various parts of the palace.
After a while,
Snap!
I too received my identity plaque.
On the back of the plaque, the character for "Heaven" is embossed.
On the front, the words "Human Race" and "Seo Eun-hyun" are engraved.
And beneath that, in small letters, engraves 'Disciple of Azure Heaven Creation Sect,' indicating my affiliation.
It was a massive undertaking to issue identity plaques to millions at once, but surprisingly, the process of distributing the plaques was completed quickly.
Inside the gigantic palace, the size of a mountain, the people of the Bright Cold Realm's Human Race were bustling with activities, handling their duties. As the minor tasks were all processed through spells, the work was done quite efficiently.
Approximately half a day later, everyone had received their identity plaques and became official members of the Bright Cold Realm's Human Race.
"Now that the basic identity verification in Temporal Fate Island is complete It's time to choose your respective Sky Islands. Those who came from other realms and are at the Heavenly Being stage can freely choose and enter any Sky Island. As for the three sects from the Head Realm"
Heo Ryeong sighs softly.
"I'm sorry, but you don't have a choice. Since you belong to a faction with a Four-Axis stage leader, you can't just enter any Sky Island. For those from Black Ghost Valley, just follow me. As for those from the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect and Azure Heaven Creation Sect, youll have to disperse completely."
"Understood."
"Yes."
Azure Tiger Saint nods, and Jin Byuk-ho responds with a grim expression.
Watching them, I suddenly feel curious.
'The Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect also has a long history, so why is no one from there coming out to greet us?'
Reaching the Four-Axis stage significantly extends ones lifespan.
It would have been enough for the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect to establish their place with just a few of their ancestors who ascended thousands of years ago.
'Whats going on?'
After a while,
Jin Byuk-ho and Azure Tiger Saint went below the palace to a map showing the Sky Islands and decided to disperse by choosing their appropriate Sky Islands.
"Then, head to the Sky Island marked on the map. Each Sky Island has a Human Race Administrator, so you can ask them for guidance. Now, Ill take my leave"
Heo Ryeong effortlessly boards the Nether Crossing Ship and, along with Black Ghost Valley, heads towards a distant black Sky Island.
"Then, I wish you good luck from this point, Azure Tiger Saint.
"I, as well."
After exchanging farewells, Azure Tiger Saint and Jin Byuk-ho fly off in opposite directions.
After some distance from Jin Byuk-ho,
I ask Azure Tiger Saint something Ive been curious about.
"Lord Azure Tiger Saint."
"Call me master from now on."
"Ah, yes, master. I have a question."
Far in the distance, the Sky Island chosen by Azure Tiger Saint can be seen.
"Why is it that Black Ghost Valley had ancestors come out to greet us, but the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, despite its long history, had no one, and Elder Jin seemed unhappy?"
To my question, Azure Tiger Saint clicks his tongue.
"I don't know the details either. But according to rumors, it's said that after a great chaos struck the Head Realm 40,000 years ago, the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect lost proper contact with the Upper Realms. The ancestors of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect, who ascended to the Bright Cold Realm from the Head Realm before this chaos, were also involved in a great war related to the sect 40,000 years ago, suggesting something went wrong. As a result, aside from a few ancestors who ascended thousands of years ago, the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect has had little means of contacting the Bright Cold realm. The ancestors of the sect who recently ascended are also mostly weaker than even Jin Byuk-ho."
"I see."
So, there was no ancestor of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect to warn about the immortal treasure.
'Should the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect be left as it is?'
A sect doomed to be annihilated by a True Immortal in a few years
What can be done to save them?
'Theres only one answer.'
I need to become stronger.
To make that brutal sect listen to me, I need to grow in power.
'First, let's get stronger.'
I strengthen my determination and resolve myself.
"Uhhhhh."
"Are you alright, Chief Oh?"
Beside the flying chariot.
Looking at Chief Oh Hyun-seok, whos suffering from motion sickness and panic,
I click my tongue in sympathy.
The flying chariot is fast, but without the convenience of modern airplanes, its very shaky.
Cold wind continuously enters through the gaps in the door, and Chief Oh Hyun-seok has been trying to survive the combination of flight sickness and cold wind since departure.
I pressed various acupoints on his body to alleviate his discomfort, but the continuous shaking of the chariot seemed to worsen his motion sickness.
"Just hold on a little longer. It seems were almost there."
Kugugugugu!
The thick barrier surrounding the Sky Island draws nearer.
Flash!
Azure light starts to swirl around Azure Tiger Saint's fist.
"To contest for a place in the Sky Island, we must battle the internal forces and seize their territory! The Human Race Grand Alliance supports this survival-of-the-fittest competition, believing it benefits the Human Race! Do you all understand? Whether it's the lower realm or the Bright Cold Realm, the essence is the same!"
Kugugugu!
Immense fighting spirit emanates from Azure Tiger Saint.
"The survival of the fittest! Only the strong survive! Now, disciples of the grand Azure Heaven Creation Sect, let's see how capable these natives of the Bright Cold Realm are!"
Kugugugu!
Disciples of the Azure Heaven Creation Sect, one after another, start to exude formidable combativeness.
'The Cheongmun Clan was just child's play.'
The Cheongmun Clan, known for its fierce veneration for the Dao of Combat, is nothing compared to the aura exuded by the Azure Heaven Creation Sect.
"Now, it's time for the rolling boulder to crush the stationary rock! Let's enter our new home, Azure Cold Island!
Kwaang!
Azure Tiger Saint leads the way, crashing into the barrier of Azure Cold Island, creating a huge opening.
Woo-woong!
An announcement echoes throughout Azure Cold Island.
At the center of Azure Cold Island, atop a gigantic jade mountain peak.
In a blue pavilion there, several Heavenly Being cultivators are discussing.
"We've received a message from Temporal Fate Island. A sect called the Azure Heaven Creation Sect from the lower realm has come to Azure Cold Island to fight for territory!"
"A sect from the lower realm ascended? What are you talking about?"
"It's news from Heaven-Earth Palace. Apparently, there are monsters who ascended with their sect and the leaders reached the Four-Axis stage as soon as they ascended."
"Four-Axis? Damn. The regular sects in Azure Cold Island won't stand a chance. To face such power"
"West Spirit Gate, West Spirit Gate should step in!"
Many Heavenly Being cultivators look at a man seated in one corner of the pavilion.
"Elder Wei, doesnt the West Spirit Gate have a Four-Axis senior? As the leading sect of Azure Cold Island, it's time to assert your authority"
The man in a dark blue robe chuckles.
"Isnt that too much a funny request?"
"What!?"
"Are you suggesting that the grand elder from our main sect should confront mere newcomers from a lower realm? It's like using a dragon-slaying sword to kill a chicken. How strong can these newly ascended ones be? They have never even witnessed the true cultivation methods of the Bright Cold realm. This contest for territory is merely a pretext, it will suffice to simply allocate them a corner in Azure Cold Island.
"B-but I heard theres a Four-Axis cultivator among them"
"Ha, the sect formations in your factions should be enough to handle one early stage Four-Axis cultivator. Don't make a fuss. And seriously, do you think this so-called Azure Heaven Creation Sect came here to genuinely engage in competition?"
Another Heavenly Being cultivator speaks with a dark expression.
"The only way for a new force to establish itself in a foreign land is through competition, is it not?"
"Not necessarily. Submitting to a stronger power is also a method. In other words, this Azure Heaven whatever sect is basically saying, We have the strength of Four-Axis and the will to fight. Theyre showcasing their advantages to sell themselves at a high price to the strongest power in Azure Cold Island
"Urgent news!"
Interrupting Elder Wei's words, someone rushes into the pavilion.
"West Spirit Gate has fallen!!!"
At that moment, as if his brain froze, Elder Wei of West Spirit Gate became completely petrified.
Kwaaaang!
"Here lies the best spiritual vein! From today onwards, this place belongs to the great Azure Heaven Creation Sect! Yield your place to us!"
Azure Tiger Saint laughs heartily as he grabs the collar of a Four-Axis cultivator in West Spirit Gates highest pavilion.
Similar events are also occurring throughout the Human Territory.
Thunder Spirit Island
Supreme Thunder Spirit Sect, Thundercloud Pavilion.
The place where Thundercloud Pavilion once stood has literally become 'where Thundercloud Pavilion once stood.'
Kurung, Kururung!
Fizz, Fizzzz!
Wielding a flag wrapped in the power of lightning, Jin Byuk-ho of the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect looks down upon Thundercloud Pavilion with cold eyes.
"In this Thundercloud Pavilion, despite being an ascendant from the Golden Divine Heavenly Thunder Sect of the lower realm, a traitor has forgotten their roots and sold the sect's secret methods for luxury. If they don't come out within a count of ten, I'll obliterate the entire Thunder Spirit Island. One, two, nine, ten."
Kwarurung, Kwarurung!
Jin Byuk-ho rapidly counts to ten without giving the opponent a chance to respond and swings the flag.
Simultaneously, the entire Thunder Spirit Island is enveloped in lightning.
Keiyaaaaaaaa
Kieeeyaaaa
Black Mist Island.
Above the Black Mist Island, filled with yin and ghostly energy, two black ships are floating.
"The Nether Crossing Ships have finally ascended. Today, Black Ghost Valley will reclaim its place as the foremost sect of Black Mist Island"
Kugugugu!
Heo Ryeong gathers ghostly energy from his entire body, and Heo Gwak begins to muster a horde of hundreds of thousands of ghosts.
Above the dark Nether Crossing Ships, blue ghost flames flickered.
The influence of Black Ghost Valley began to cast its shadow over Black Mist Island.
Elsewhere in the Human Race Territory, Cloud Island Archipelago.
Numerous newly ascended cultivator factions began pushing out the existing groups to establish their own areas.
"Kugh! This insolent fellow! A mere lower realm creature!"
Kwagwang!
A blue light spreads in all directions, and far away, the Four-Axis cultivator caught in the hands of Azure Tiger Saint begins to exert their power.
[Hahaha! Are you planning to fight seriously now? As theres no chance of victory, youd better just surrender your area to our main sect!]
Kugugugu!
Azure Tiger Saint's momentum also begins to grow.
The two Four-Axis cultivators start to battle, rising into the sky.
Simultaneously, the voices of the Four-Axis cultivators resonate in all directions.
[Listen, West Spirit Gate! Show these lower realm fools the power of native Bright Cold Realm cultivators!]
[Azure Heaven Creation Sect disciples, listen!]
Kwagwangwang!
Azure and blue light covers the sky.
Azure Tiger Saint's voice rumbles loudly.
[We will win!]
Its only one statement.
But its all that is needed.
Kugugugu!
The Azure Heaven Creation Sect begins to overpoweringly push out one of Azure Cold Islands sects.
I look down from the flying chariot, pondering.
'Is there no intention of even attempting negotiations?'
The cultivators of Temporal Fate Island mentioned to Azure Tiger Saint that conquest is a method of integrating into a new area.
Although the method itself is accepted, I hadnt expected them to storm in so bluntly without any discussion.
'It seems I can't adopt the quiet and disciplined training approach I had at the Cheongmun Clan...'
As I shake my head in disapproval,
Kwaang!
Suddenly, a strange figure falls in front of the flying chariot I am in with Director Oh Hyun-seok.
He appears to be an elder of this West Spirit Gate.
"Cough! Cough! Damn it How could such monsters ascend from the lower realm!"
After grinding his teeth for a moment, the elder and I lock eyes.
He glares at me, grinding his teeth.
Kugugugu!
A tremendous surge of Nascent Soul stage aura emanates from him.
"Ah, you must be the precious disciples of the sect. You are now my prisoners!"
As I watch him for a moment, I sigh softly and stepped off the flying chariot.
"Hahaha, wise of you to surrender quickly. Ignorant lower realm beings Once the conquest is over, well use your lives as bargaining chips"
'Formless Sword won't work here.'
Well, no matter.
I can handle him even without the Formless Sword.
Woo-woong!
I gather spiritual power from the Blood Body Skin Armor still enveloping me and begin forming a spell.
"Uh?"
As he looks puzzled,
Kuguguguk!
A blood-red tree grows from the ground, gradually coalescing beside me and transforming into a wooden puppet.
Kududuguk!
I place my hand on the wooden puppet and quickly etch a spiritual circuit.
The puppet gradually transforms into a familiar face.
Woo-woong!
After a while,
The completed puppet's spiritual circuit absorbs the surrounding heaven and earth spiritual energy, beginning to emit tremendous spiritual pressure.
I look emotionlessly at the West Spirit Gate elder.
"This friend here is named General Seo, a kind-hearted fellow despite his appearance. It would be nice if you could play with him."
Woo-woong!
For the past thousand years, I had meticulously studied the structure of the body and circuits.
Knowing the structure inside out, I can now replicate it at any time.
Of course, the real General Seo's body contained incredibly expensive materials in abundance, so its impossible to create a true Four-Axis stage puppet in less than a second.
Therefore, the power of this hastily made puppet is roughly.
Kwaaang!
'Early Nascent Soul stage, perhaps.'
I ponder this as I watch General Seo mass-produced version shooting beams from his eyes.
The elder of the West Spirit Gate hurriedly dodges the beams and begins preparing his spells.
Seeing the West Spirit Gate elder still appearing composed, I begin creating another General Seo puppet.
Translator Notes: We get more info on the three main tribes and the power structure of the Bright Cold Realm. Im curious why the Heaven Tribe cultivators couldnt learn the Heart Path Method while our MC was able to. Also Temporal Fate Island might not be the definitive name as the author didnt give the Hanja/Chinese characters.
Other than that, this chapter was jokes lmao. From Elder Wei getting absolutely face-slapped, Azure Tiger Saint acting as a true muscle head, Jin Byuk-ho skipping counts, and Seo just casually creating a Nascent Soul puppet, especially General Seo mass-produced version xDD.
-x-X-x-
Whirring!
Flash!
A third beam of light shot out from General Seo's eyes.
"Kughh!"
West Spirit Gate's Nascent Soul Elder, Wei Tak, frowned and blocked the beam.
'A brat who's barely even at the Qi Refining stage managed to summon a Nascent Soul puppet!'
However, Wei Tak is just annoyed, not overly strained.
After all, its merely an early stage Nascent Soul puppet, barely a step beyond Core Formation.
Even though his spiritual power has weakened, as a mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator, Wei Tak is not about to lose.
'Im almost done with my spell. Now'
Just as he was about to finish his spell and annihilate the puppet in front of him,
Pop!
The puppet, named General Seo, which had been gathering energy in its eyes suddenly exploded on its own.
Wei Tak was briefly stunned but soon realized the situation.
"Ah, I see."
It was overloaded.
It could launch Nascent Soul level attacks thrice, but that is its limit.
Trying to shoot beams more than three times would cause it to break down, a puppet with an almost laughably limited capability.
"Tsk, tsk, its only fitting for a Core Formation puppet that can shoot Nascent Soul level attacks thrice."
A sneer appears on Wei Tak's lips.
"Well, it was an amusing resistance. Now, just surrender..."
And when Wei Tak looked down towards where Seo Eun-hyun was,
He had to widen his eyes in disbelief.
"...What?"
A total of seventeen 'General Seo' are gathering energy beside Seo Eun-hyun.
Seo Eun-hyun clicks his tongue and forms a hand seal.
Kuguguguk!
Crack!
Right beside him, an 18th puppet is being formed.
"One puppet can use a Nascent Soul stage attack three times before breaking. Indeed, with such inferior materials, even with Mad Lord's circuits, it cant hold up"
"What, what!?"
Click, click, click!
The 18 'General Seos' simultaneously opened their mouths.
Flash!
"General Seo Cannon, fire."
Beams shot out from the mouths of the 18 puppets, all aimed at Wi Tak.
He released his prepared spell, but it was dispersed by the 18 beams.
Engulfed in the torrent of light, Wei Tak yelled out a curse that was swept away by the explosion.
I watched as the West Spirit Gate's Elder, Wei Tak, scorched and fell.
"Kugh, keughu!?"
Indeed, as expected of a Nascent Soul cultivator with incredible vitality.
He hasnt died even though his entire body is charred.
"He-heugh, harghh. Heuarghh!"
Of course, he attempted to escape, seeing me as if I were a terrible nightmare.
Clatter, clink
Wei Tak's clothes tore apart, and several items fell from his bosom.
I slowly approached and picked up the items.
Several talismans.
And a scroll magic artifact that emits faint spatial vibrations.
"This is"
I tried to open the scroll artifact, but it didnt budge, seemingly sealed.
'A seal'
I chuckle softly, looking at the artifact.
Fzzt, fzzt
Energy gathers at my fingertips.
Simultaneously, the Mad Lords circuitry starts to overlay on the surface of the scroll artifact.
The grand circuits that operate the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress.
The circuits capable of mimicking the soul of a living being, began to overtake the artifact, breaking through the seal.
Whirring!
Before long,
Mad Lords circuits broke through the seal on the scroll.
Bang!
A faint light burst from the scroll artifact, and the sealing spell was broken.
Woo-woong!
As I infuse spiritual energy into the scroll, it floats into the air.
And then,
Swoosh!
The scroll unfurls in the air.
"This is"
A scroll-shaped space artifact!
Inside the scroll are several paintings.
As I carefully reach towards one of the paintings, my hand naturally enters inside.
"Wow"
I reach for one of the items inside the painting and pick it up.
Woo-woong!
Its a dharma treasure emitting a powerful light, appearing quite formidable.
"It's even more convenient than a storage bag"
Typically, storage artifacts have the downside of not allowing the inside to be seen, sometimes making it hard to find what was put inside when trying to take it out again.
Of course, if one's consciousness is inserted into the storage artifact, they can quickly find what they are looking for.
However, the fact that one can see inside the storage artifact with their naked eye, seeing exactly where and what is placed inside, offers significant convenience.
I begin to rummage through the West Spirit Gate elder's scroll artifact, extracting his assets.
'A pair of twin flying dagger dharma treasures. Several unknown poisonous herbs. And books about spiritual beasts, spiritual trees, spiritual insects and there are four million spirit stones?
This is equivalent to several years' worth of budget for a lower realm cultivator clan.
'And six unidentified talismans, each emitting extraordinary spiritual energy, and lastly, this is'
I take out a white jade tablet from a corner of the scroll artifact.
'Oh, is this West Spirit Gate's secret method?'
The jade tablet is densely inscribed with the language of the Bright Cold Realm.
'Hmm, looks like I need to learn the Bright Cold Realm language.'
I sighed softly and carefully put the jade tablet into my pockets for now.
Some time later.
Azure Tiger Saint won against the grand elder of West Spirit Gate, and the Azure Heaven Creation Sect achieved victory over West Spirit Gate.
"From now on, this place belongs to our grand Azure Heaven Creation Sect! Everyone, get out!"
Defeated by Azure Tiger Saint, the grand elder of West Spirit Gate gnashed his teeth and flew away, followed by the rest of West Spirit Gate disciples.
"Hahaha. Now, we have won! All disciples, prepare to move"
Kugugugu!
Azure Tiger Saint takes out a scroll from his embrace.
Like the one I had seen before, its the scroll with the landscape painting drawn on it.
Suddenly, the painting begins to emit light.
Flash!
Simultaneously, the mountain painted on the scroll begins to emerge from within the scroll.
Kugugugu!
A small mountain range falls next to West Spirit Gate's peak, forming a small mountain next to it.
Koo-woong!
A tremendous boom echoed in all directions, raising a cloud of dust.
'It's insane every time I see it.'
The idea of ascending with their entire sect in a spatial artifact, bringing them to the Bright Cold Realm, is almost unbelievable.
Koong!
As I stood dumbfoundedly watching this spectacle with Chief Oh, who is still in the flying chariot and struggling to grasp the situation, Azure Tiger Saint descended from the sky in front of us.
"Now that both of you are disciples of Azure Heaven Creation Sect, I will inform you of the place where you will reside from now on."
Thus, on that day in the Bright Cold Realms Azure Cold Island,
My life in the Azure Heaven Creation Sect began.
After Azure Heaven Creation Sect sorted out the hierarchy with West Spirit Gate, they sent disciples to the surrounding factions to announce that as of that day, Azure Heaven Creation Sect had become the number 1 sect of Azure Cold Island.
Simultaneously, after officially registering the sect's territory with the help of Azure Cold Islands Administrator who manages the disputes in Azure Cold Island,
People of the Human Race Grand Alliance were invited to give extensive lectures on the Bright Cold Realms language, geography, climate, culture, and astronomy.
Especially, the Bright Cold Realm's language and astronomy are essential elements for cultivation and had to be properly learned.
'So in the Bright Cold Realm, that is the Horn Star.'
In my previous life, surrounding races were conquered through the Wonderfully Mysterious Fortress, kidnapping and forcibly extracting information.
In this life, under Azure Heaven Creation Sect, I could systematically acquire information.
And, Chief Oh Hyun-seok, without understanding what was happening, also quickly learned the Bright Cold Realms language.
It took about 6 months for Azure Heaven Creation Sect to completely settle and establish its position in Azure Cold Island.
"Hooooo"
"You seem a bit better now."
"Yes. Thanks, Deputy Seo."
The last 6 months were incredibly busy.
Learning the Bright Cold Realm's language, reacquainting myself with the constellations of the Bright Cold Realm from scratch.
Not just that, settling in Azure Cold Island and completely reorganizing into Azure Heaven Creation Sect, being called here and there to become familiar with people.
'I was okay, but I wonder how Chief Oh felt.'
He must have been incredibly busy and confused, dropped into a strange place for the first time, learning a strange language, and becoming acquainted with strange people.
Over the past 6 months, we barely saw each other's faces, knowing only that the other was somewhere, as we had to constantly go here and there.
Recently, as the sect stabilized a bit and we had the chance to meet each other again, I was helping train Chief Ohs body.
"Moving the body helps clear the mind. Indeed, there's nothing like exercise to clear away idle thoughts. But Deputy Seo, I've only seen you groan at the office You surprisingly look like a P.T (personal trainer) here, which is quite fascinating."
"Haha, thank you."
'What does P.T mean?'
Anyway, since it was clearly a compliment, I just smiled and accepted it.
"Chief Oh, you handle your body quite well."
I evaluated his movements while teaching basic recommended stances and techniques.
Certainly, he hasn't grasped the true essence of martial arts immediately with innate talent like Kim Young-hoon.
However, its evident that he has considerable control over his body.
"Well, it's always been like this at the company. Even when going hiking with Director Kim Young-hoon, the female employees would faint halfway, and you and Section Chief Jeon would collapse exhausted. It was only Director Kim and I who always succeeded in reaching the summit. Hahaha!"
"It's probably because both of you have always been good at using your bodies."
As we talked, memories from the company began to sneak into my mind subtly.
There was a time when we went on a hiking workshop with Executive Director Jeon Myeong-cheol at the company.
Actually, Jeon Myeong-cheol only went up a little before veering off to a spring midway, and told the others to go to the summit and take proof. Kim Young-hoon and Chief Oh Hyun-seok were the only ones to climb to the top.
The female employees all fainted halfway and collapsed sitting on a bench, and only I and Section Chief Jeon somehow managed to continue. Unfortunately, we ended up just sitting down in front of the steep mountain path.
'Looking back at that time...'
While Kim Young-hoon climbed the mountain without wasting energy, sensibly managing his stamina, Chief Oh Hyun-seok showed a stamina that didn't run out no matter how much he used, all the way to the end.
'He always had a body like a monster...'
I reminisced about the distant past as I watched Chief Oh Hyun-seok, having finished his physical training.
Just then.
Wo-woong!
From afar, a blue light quickly flew and landed before us.
As the lump of blue brilliance subsided, a figure walked out from within.
A towering figure, about eight feet tall (2.4 meters).
Walking around shirtless, his abs are sharply defined as if carved by a knife.
Its Azure Tiger Saint.
"Ive seen the master."
"I-I greet the master."
Still unfamiliar with the language and manners of this world, Oh Hyun-seok stuttered his respects.
However, Azure Tiger Saint, with a carefree laugh, indicated that such formalities were unnecessary.
I have no need for such tiresome formalities. My coming here is because as Azure Heaven Creation Sect is well settled in Azure Cold Island and you both have become fluent in the Bright Cold Realms language, it seems about time to start learning
"I thank the master."
"Ah, yes Th-thank you."
Chief Oh Hyun-seok still seemed to have a hard time grasping the concept of cultivation methods.
Confused, he followed my lead and expressed his thanks.
"Before I start teaching the methods, let's properly conduct a test to determine your aptitudes."
Azure Tiger Saint spoke, his muscles twitching noticeably.
Excluding the first day in the Bright Cold Realm when we first ascended,
Azure Tiger Saint almost always went around shirtless.
I think he said its manly.
"Primarily, most of the methods of our Azure Heaven Creation Sect are specialized in combat. Though we've acquired some different cultivation methods after taking over West Spirit Gate, they arent the mainstream.
Oh Hyun-seok, you possess the legendary physique known as the Unique Holy Body, and Seo Eun-hyun, you... I don't know what it is exactly, but you managed to ascend on your own. Both are worthy to be my direct disciples."
I feel an ominous premonition.
"In a nutshell, as my direct disciples, you won't need the methods obtained from West Spirit Gate, but will learn our own secret methods. But first, to understand what to focus on and how to instruct you, let's have a simple test today."
"May I ask what this 'simple test' entails?"
Feeling a sense of foreboding, I cautiously asked him.
And Azure Tiger Saint, with a sly grin, raised his fist.
How can his one fist be as big as my head?
"With an all-day free sparring with me of course. Come, both of you. I'll try to adjust my strength to the Qi Refining stage."
"What does that-"
Before Chief Oh could fully comprehend,
Bang!
Azure Tiger Saint's fist, as big as a head, strikes Chief Oh's abdomen.
Chief Oh's eyes roll back as hes sent flying far away.
Whizz!
The next moment, a red line targets my abdomen.
I hastily evade Azure Tiger Saint's punch by reading his intent.
Azure Tiger Saint's fist punches a huge rock behind me where I had just been standing.
Crash!
The rock the size of a yard shatters into pieces from the impact.
I briefly fall silent, before asking Azure Tiger Saint.
"Didn't you say you would adjust to the Qi Refining stage?"
"Hmm? When I was at Qi Refining, I used to fight like this."
...
That was clearly a Qi Building level strike.
I involuntarily have a new admiration for Azure Tiger Saints monstrous strength before taking my stance.
'I guess martial arts are out of the question.'
Not knowing where the line is drawn for the Heart Tribe and how human cultivators identify members of the Heart Tribe, its best to be cautious.
But.
'Still, just 'moving my body' should be fine'
Without using Formless Sword or Gang Sphere, purely relying on my consciousness to read and dodge the opponent's attacks should be fine.
"Haha, nonetheless, to dodge my strike. Indeed, you seem promising. Now shall we continue?"
Boom!
As Azure Tiger Saint stomped, blue light emerged from beneath his feet and flowed into Chief Oh Hyun-seok, who was lying unconscious and bleeding in the distance.
'Is he going to keep healing and training us even if our bodies are completely destroyed?'
What kind of insane training method is this?
'No, it's not even training yet. Just checking our aptitude...'
I swallow nervously.
Azure Tiger Saint's training method might be more cruel than I imagined.
"Alright then. Since I've got promising disciples, shall we have some fun?"
Boom!
Azure Tiger Saint laughs heartily and charges at me again.
Flash!
I dodge his punch by reading his intent.
At that moment.
Flash!
The trajectory of his intent shifts, becoming hard to discern.
Simultaneously.
Whoosh!
Azure Tiger Saint's fist narrowly misses me.
Had I made even a slight mistake, I would have been hit directly.
Seeing this, I gasp for air, and Azure Tiger Saint chuckles.
"Changing intent This is, Three Flowers Gather at the Summit!?"
"Oh? To 'see' and dodge that. Are you also at the Three Flowers Gather at the Summit?"
Thud! Boom!
Azure Tiger Saint clapped his fists together joyously, with blue energy rippling around him each time.
"I didn't expect the master, the Founder of Azure Heaven Creation Sect, to have learned mortal techniques. Have you learned martial arts?"
"Hmm, I haven't exactly learned martial arts. It's just... my method itself is about training the body, so naturally, I end up fighting a lot with my body. After frequently fighting... at some point, I started seeing the opponent's intent visualized."
From Azure Tiger Saint's body, thousands of threads flow out.
Each is optimized for combat!
I sweat coldly, blocking those threads with my intent, dodging them all.
"And then, at some point while fighting, fighting, and fighting some more, I saw my intent and the opponent's intent mix together, turning purple. From that day, I could see the colors of other human emotions if I focused. Well, of course, I don't care about intents not related to combat, so I didn't delve deeper into the general emotions of intent..."
Boom, boom, boom!
Azure Tiger Saint's fists filled all four directions in front of me.
"I found the state that mortals call Three Flowers Gather at the Summit quite useful in combat! Ha ha, it seems you've also reached Three Flowers Gather at the Summit! Good, let's have some fun!"
Azure Tiger Saint, with an even more excited expression, pushes harder, infusing more strength into his fists towards me.
'After all, Three Flowers Gather at the Summit often blooms in the midst of extreme real combat...'
Hence Azure Tiger Saint, who frequently engages in physical combat, reaching Three Flowers Gather at the Summit isnt surprising.
'But now'
I dodge his punches while feeling genuinely exhilarated for the first time in a while.
'How long has it been since I've fought and measured moves with someone through intent?'
Things I couldn't even attempt if it wasn't Kim Young-hoon.
Ordinary martial artists couldn't match me in pure force, so they weren't considered opponents.
However, here is an opponent with whom I could match moves somewhat and who is far beyond me in terms of pure strength.
'Shall we have fun for a change?'
I smirk, exchanging intents with Azure Tiger Saint.
Blue and red threads intertwine in the air, turning into purple.
Each others movements and actions become predictable.
A line extending from Azure Tiger Saint targets my forehead.
A blow that can shatter my skull.
I slightly tilt my head to dodge his fist, then shoot my intent towards his legs.
Azure Tiger Saint, in turn, kicks towards me, but my intent was a feint.
I grab Azure Tiger Saint's arm, still not retracted from his punch, and smoothly redirect the force of his punch with fluid motion.
Bang!
...Huh?
I stimulated part of the force in his punch, changing its direction.
The redirected force inside Azure Tiger Saint's arm collided, causing him to be slightly shocked by his own force.
"Oho"
Azure Tiger Saint's eyes sparkle with interest.
Chi...
A slight shock entered Azure Tiger Saint's arm, which was then covered in blue light.
"...Very good. Excellent... Shall we continue?"
Tadatt!
Azure Tiger Saint charges at me again.
The attack aimed at my knee is dodged by twisting half a step, and I counterattack at the ribs.
The movement trying to step on my foot is evaded by stepping back half a step, then I counterattack at the pelvis.
His punch aiming at my head is dodged by slightly turning my head, then I strike his upper arm three times in retaliation.
The attack with the elbow coming down is dodged by entering his embrace, then I strike down at the collarbone in retaliation.
The movement trying to enclose me by grabbing my arm is met with a strike at the solar plexus, then I escape downwards.
Immediately, seven red intents aim at me.
Each targeting my lower body, anticipating my dodges.
But instead, I charge forward, connecting 14 red lines aiming towards Azure Tiger Saints vital points.
Boom, boom, boom!
Azure Tiger Saint doesnt bother protecting his vitals and attacks me.
However, I dodge all seven attacks with flowing steps, as planned, and strike all of Azure Tiger Saint's vital points.
Yet.
'Why am I the one hurt when Im the one who attacked?'
I chuckle hollowly, looking at my bruised fists.
'Hes shirtless but its like hitting diamond instead of flesh'
In the pure realm of martial arts, I overpower Azure Tiger Saint. However, in terms of pure strength, we are in entirely different weight divisions.
Hes just hard!
So ridiculously solid!
And the feeling that one punch from that fist can disintegrate my limbs.
It's a fighting style that enforces a bizarre illogic: You can hit me as many times as you want, but I only need to hit you once.
That is Azure Tiger Saints way of fighting.
'If I use the Formless Sword, I can at least make an impact'
As Im contemplating this, Azure Tiger Saint smiles even wider, infusing more power into his fist.
Kugugugu!
"Sorry for holding back in our fight, disciple"
The air around him vibrates.
"Now that I know your strength"
Wo-woong!
Visible energy to the naked eye from the atmosphere flows into Azure Tiger Saint's body.
"Now, I'll fight you at the Qi Building stage!"
Boom!
With the speed comparable to a Core Formation cultivator's Flying Escape Technique, Azure Tiger Saint charges at me.
"This!"
I narrowly dodge his fist.
Crash!
A small hill behind me is sent flying away from Azure Tiger Saints punch.
I laugh helplessly.
"Is that Qi Building level?"
"I fought like this at the Qi Building stage. Jin Byuk-ho, Heo Gwak, those guys as well. They all played around like this, it's not that strange, right?"
""
"Alright, then. Try catching this!"
Flash!
Azure Tiger Saint appears before me in a flash, raising his fist.
I swallow my laughter, reposition myself in that brief moment, and gather energy at my fingertips.
And then.
We collided.
Shhhh
Azure Tiger Saint brushed off his hands, looking at his disciple.
"Alright, I've figured out how to teach you. Excellent. To think you've also reached the stage of Three Flowers Gather at the Summit, my disciple. If we just train your body to be a bit tougher, you'll make a fine sparring partner."
""
Seo Eun-hyun doesn't respond.
His eyes are rolled up with his right arm and entire right shoulder blown off.
"Perhaps I was too harsh."
Wo-woong!
Azure Tiger Saint emits a blue light, patting Seo Eun-hyun's shoulder, helping his right arm regenerate.
While infusing life force into Seo Eun-hyuns body and healing him, Azure Tiger Saint looks at his fist.
""
From start to finish, Seo Eun-hyun sparred with Azure Tiger Saint barehanded.
Even though Azure Tiger Saint restricted his strength for the assessment, Seo Eun-hyun is initially someone he can crush with just his little toe.
'Hmm, this guy'
Azure Tiger Saint, looking at Seo Eun-hyun who is still unconscious standing up, grins.
Drip, drip
Blood is seeping out from a crack-like wound on Azure Tiger Saint's fist.
"Interesting. We clashed fist against fist..."
He pondered, looking at the slash-like wound.
'But isn't this almost like a sword wound?'
Chi...
Although the slash-like sword wound healed immediately as Azure Tiger Saint exerted force, he looked at Seo Eun-hyun with curious eyes.
'I only thought that child with the Unique Holy Body was interesting, but this guy might also possess a very unique quality...'
Grin.
Azure Tiger Saint smiles looking at Seo Eun-hyun.
"I wonder how much of a monster you'll become once you've mastered body refining methods."
Azure Tiger Saint chuckles and turns around, approaching Oh Hyun-seok who is just waking up.
"Now, let's continue assessing your other qualities."
"Just a mome-"
Kwaang!
In a corner of Azure Heaven Creation Sect.
In front of the residence of Seo Eun-hyun and Oh Hyun-seok, blue light continues to flicker.
"...Huff!"
'Is this the fifteenth death?'
I shiver, looking around for Seo Hweol, but fortunately, he isn't there.
"...Not dead."
"Hahaha, people don't die that easily."
Startled!
I shudder for a moment looking at Azure Tiger Saint.
But I sigh in relief looking around.
Fortunately, the place emitting a medicinal scent is the Azure Heaven Creation Sect's medicine hall.
"I've shown an unsightly side. My apologies, master."
"No, it's alright. Anyway, I've roughly figured out yours and Oh Hyun-seok's qualities. I also know how to teach you going forward. So, let's start practicing the methods from today."
Wo-woong!
Next to Azure Tiger Saint, a scroll-like storage artifact floats up.
The scroll unfurls, revealing its contents, and Azure Tiger Saint reaches into the scroll, pulling out a large stele.
Kuong!
The steele is densely written in the language of Byeokra.
"Here, this is the method you'll be learning from today."
The name of the method is Starlight Protective Void Body.
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