My head is numb.
I can't make sense of anything at all.
It feels like the heavens and the earth are turning upside down.
It feels like my brain is being crushed.
I can't endure it.
A cacophony of tinnitus rings from all directions, blurring my vision with its intensity.
I can't regain my senses.
But I'm not even allowed to go mad.
[Let's stop now.]
Suddenly!
Upon hearing those words, my mind is forcibly pulled together.
Just as I'm about to fall under the cliff's edge, it feels like someone is forcefully grabbing my hair and pulling me up.
Naturally, it brings a pain that feels as though my neck is being ripped out.
Likewise, I had to forcibly escape from the chaos with a pain that felt like my soul was being torn apart.
"Haah...! Huh...!"
[I sought you out because I'm curious about three things. Answer these three questions, and I'll leave.]
Even though my mind was forcibly calmed, it's still incredibly hard to endure.
'Endure it, endure...!'
But I must endure.
If I don't, even if I regress, I might waste countless lives over thousands, tens of thousands of years, lost in madness.
I must endure!
Ghhaaaaaaah!
Crunch!
I raise my arm, open my mouth, and bite into my wrist.
The sharp pain and metallic taste of blood cuts through the fog of confusion, anchoring me back to sanity.
Pain neutralizes the confusion, allowing me to regain a bit of sanity.
'I must, regain my composure.'
"Ask...your question."
With a trembling voice, I speak to the entity before me.
The entity in front of me smiles, as if pleased.
[Your mental strength is strong. Even for an Ender, at the beginning of their story, they are no different from insects, yet you regained your senses so quickly.]
"..."
[Very well, it seems you're ready, so I'll proceed with the questions. First question, what is the fate you received?]
"...!?"
I mustn't reveal it!
I clench my teeth.
But suddenly, such a thought passes through my confused mind.
I mustn't reveal it, but what if I don't even know what it is?
How should I respond?
As I stupidly stand still, Bong Myeong speaks.
[Hm, you still don't know?]
"..."
[Hm, curious. How can an Ender who doesn't even know their own fate endure ten years in the darkness of the Serving Command Ark and regain consciousness so quickly before me?]
Bong Myeong muses, seemingly puzzled, and then continues with the next question.
[Second question, do you know where the being that brought you here is located?]
"?"
What does that mean?
The entity that brought me here?
You're saying that us falling into this world wasn't just an accident but someones deliberate actions?
Just when Im puzzled.
[It seems you don't know this either. Well, I can't expect much from an Ender who hasn't even realized their fate. You'll remember eventually as the story progresses.]
""
What is he talking about?
As I listen to him perplexedly,
[Last question, have you ever met a Supreme Deity or a Heavenly Sovereign? Even if you haven't met them directly, have you ever heard stories about such beings from someone?]
"Uh?"
Simultaneously.
Pudduddudduk!
Aaaaaaaah!
I scream in agony, feeling as though my head will explode.
Bong Myeong's voice drills into my mind.
Unlike the first and second questions, which elicited no reaction, the third question made me feel like my head would explode immediately.
Haaaaaak! Aaaaak! Uaaaaak!
IfIexplodemyheadrightnowandkillmyselfImightfeelabitmoreconfortablemaybeImtryingtoremembersomethingIshouldntthattimeinthatvillageIdefinitely
[Calm down.]
Thud
?
What was it?
It felt like something tremendously terrifying had happened just now.
I sense Bong Myeong looking at me.
[I see, you've already had two encounters. That's a sufficient answer. Thank you for responding.]
"??"
I'm confused.
I kept my mouth shut throughout, yet this entity seemed to have gleaned something from my silence.
As I struggle to understand, Bong Myeong speaks to me.
[I've resolved my curiosity, so now you may ask whatever you're curious about. Six seconds have already passed, so you'll need to ask everything within the next four seconds.]
"Four seconds?"
I momentarily wonder why, then remember that in the presence of an entity like Bong Myeong, the concept of time is meaningless.
"If it's not too impolite to ask, if you're capable of warping time, why didn't you extend the ten seconds to about ten days instead?"
I ask, trying to steady my trembling voice.
[I am but a fragment, and the Serving Command Ark I influence is a discarded immortal treasure. Therefore, the extent of distortion can only be so much.]
"Can True Immortals distort time no"
I quickly move past the unnecessary question.
Now is the chance to ask something far more important than the abilities of True Immortal.
"What exactly is an Ender? Are there others like us?"
[What Enders are, only the Enders themselves know. That's why I asked you earlier if you had realized your fate. Enders have been around far longer than even I have.]
"Is Yang Su-jin the previous Ender? Did he also reach the state of True Immortal?"
[Correct. He was as weak as you at the beginning of his story but managed to reach the limits of a True Immortal by its end.]
"What is a story?"
[Fate.]
""
Fate...
"By any chance, the [it] searching for Enders is it you?"
[Shh.]
Pop!
Suddenly, my mouth disappears.
Literally.
My [mouth] is gone!
[It seems you have received a message left by a previous Ender. But be careful with your words. Be careful with your thoughts. Be cautious even with what you bring to your mind. My encounter with you is the result of preparations before the immortal treasure, laid out through countless histories and arrangements, as well as a form of attraction, but the method your predecessor used is a miracle of improbable odds. My method is not as safe as the miracle of the Ender..]
Somehow, if Bong Myeong were an entity in human form.
It's as if he is now placing his index finger to his lips, signaling me to keep quiet.
Of course, I can't see him clearly since I can't look directly at him, but if this entity had a human-like appearance, I felt like that's what he would be doing.
[If you try to look at something, that something will also look closely back at you. Do not think. Do not recall. Do not speak carelessly. I've left this primordial darkness in the lowest floor specifically for safe conversation with an Ender, so please do not open your mouth and invite calamity.]
""
Suddenly, my mouth is back.
I haven't been reckless with my words outside.
[Good. Always be on guard, as the [light] in the Three Thousand Worlds is a minion of [that thing]. In places where light shines, always keep your lips sealed.]
Light?
"You mean to keep my mouth shut forever."
[That might be wise in the early part of the story.]
I am astonished.
Light?
To be cautious of the light?
The way he speaks as if the light is a living being.
All the moments I had peacefully basked in the sunlight, bathed in the moonlight, and embraced the starlight suddenly became terrifying.
'So, is that why there is no [light] in this space?'
Why are you helping me, Your Eminence?
[Because Enders create miracles.]
"?"
A vague answer.
But from Bong Myeongs tone, I sense that he is not permitting any further questions.
No, rather than sensing, its more like he shows it.
"If you're willing to help, couldn't you assist directly?"
[For example?]
"Granting a wish"
[A True Immortal cannot directly give anything to an Ender, except for misfortune. I can bestow as much calamity as you wish.]
""
[Conveying information is the extent of the help I can offer. And even this is reaching its time limit.]
Bong Myeong speaks.
[Choose your last question.]
"...Can you beings know all the abilities of Enders?"
[It's not impossible.]
"!"
Just when Im startled, my vision suddenly distorts.
At the same time, I realize my body is melting away.
'Ah, I see.'
The reason I could have this conversation with this entity was because he 'permitted' it.
Originally, even facing a fragment rather than the main body should have resulted in immediate dissolution.
As soon as our meeting ended, as soon as he diverted his attention, my body and soul themselves began to disintegrate like this.
And as I melt into the surroundings,
[I'll return you to your original time.]
Hearing Bong Myeong's voice, I lose consciousness.
It's cold.
"!!!"
I open my eyes wide and look around.
Hukhah!
As soon as I open my mouth, the glow of life flows out.
I look at my forearm.
The number one hundred () is inscribed.
Its still cold, but somehow I feel warm.
Despite the deathly darkness and cold, it feels quite bright and warm for some reason.
Why is that?
'Maybe it's because I've seen an even deeper and vast darkness.'
I think of the entity I just met.
'Wait, who did I meet?'
I can't remember [his name], the [name] of that being.
I remember everything about meeting him.
But who he is seems to be erased from my mind.
Shiver, shiver.
It's terrifying.
No, perhaps it's a relief that I've forgotten his name.
'If you look at something, that something will also look at you.'
If I keep remembering his name and keep thinking about it.
He, too, will continue to look at me.
Perhaps its a form of mercy from such an incomprehensible entity towards a mortal like me.
As I calmed my heart, a familiar golden light spread from above.
Flash!
"The Immortal Beast Blood Fusion has ended. To the last remaining 100, the True Blood of Immortal Beasts will be bestowed!
Its Gyu-ryeon.
Seeing her, I finally feel I have returned to reality.
I hurriedly shout to her.
"How long has it been? How much time has passed since we were trapped here?"
"Hmm? It's been exactly 4 months and 12 days. It seems your sense of time has dulled from being trapped in the darkness."
"4 months"
Gyu-ryeon is not lying.
That meant, during these 4 months, I experienced a decade.
Within my veins, the Azure Spirit Starlight Quintessence Great Method that I had evolved over ten years flows distinctly.
And whether it was his consideration or not, the life force from the Canvas of Myriad Forms and Connections that I had consumed over the ten years is only depleted for exactly 4 months' worth.
It seems True Immortals can't give something directly to me, but they can give such indirect gifts.
"True Immortals are truly, terrifying entities."
I tremble, recalling the terrifying years spent in darkness without a single ray of light.
[He] had said he prepared about ten seconds because I had endured ten years.
That meant, if I could endure it, [He] could distort time for 100 years or even 1000 years.
No, let's not think any further.
Even if I can't remember the name, if I keep thinking about [Him], [He] might look at me too.
Although that entity was friendly to me, the mere fact that such an entity is looking at me is terrifying.
Don't think, don't think about anything, for now just be grateful to be alive.
With a sigh of relief, I follow Gyu-ryeon out of the lowest floor of Serving Command Ark.
"...thus, these promising members of the Earth Tribe have proven capable of carrying on the lineage of the Immortal Beasts. Therefore, the highest council of the True Dragon Alliance has decided to award the participants of this Immortal Beast Blood Fusion"
After the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion ended.
Being among the surviving 100, I silently recover my vital energy on the second floor of the Serving Command Ark, listening to Gyu-ryeon's speech.
But honestly, it doesn't feel very real.
'Maybe I've gone mad in the cold and darkness, and everything I'm seeing now could just be an illusion.'
The presence of [Him] was too overwhelming to bear with a sane mind.
I can understand why Jeon Myeong-hoon went mad.'
Such a [being], not with kindness but deliberately spreading malice and inflicting divine punishment.
It would be enough to drive someone like Jeon Myeong-hoon completely insane..
Suddenly, thinking of [Their] presence, the goal of stealing the Heavenly Lightning Banner feels unspeakably terrifying.
What if, while trying to steal the Heavenly Lightning Banner, I end up directly facing [such] an entity?
Can I really remain unbroken?
Is it really right to pursue this goal?
'Can I, even after seeing a True Immortal...'
That's when.
Thud....
Seo Hweol places his hand on my shoulder.
With a gentle smile, he praised me.
"Congratulations. Now that you can receive the true blood of an Immortal Beast, you will truly become a member of our Earth Tribe."
His smile is still unpleasant.
"After choosing and accepting the true blood, I will give you the Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation, the superior version of the Summoning Wind, True Blood Transformation you were given last time. Mastering the Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation will allow you to quickly assimilate the true blood of Immortal Beasts into your body and elevate your realm."
"...Haha, I'm grateful for your grace."
I force a smile.
Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation.
Just hearing the name made it clear Seo Hweol prepared a nasty surprise for me. Suggesting the Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation, his intentions are filled with vile schemes.
"Your colleague, Oh Hye-seo, is also excellently practicing the Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation I taught. If you learn the same technique, you will be able to grow quickly just like her."
Ah
I realize something.
"...With gratitude as vast as the sea, I am forever thankful."
I can tell.
Oh Hye-seo is definitely not in a normal state, and if I were to learn the technique called Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation that she is practicing, that would mark the start of my slavery under Seo Hweol.
'...Thats how it is.'
"Participant Seo Eun-hyeon, come forward!"
Gyu-ryeon calls my name among the survivors.
On the stage where the survivors of the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion are being selected, drops of true blood are prepared, and I just have to go up and choose one to receive.
I smile at Seo Hweol, who is grinning behind me.
"...Truly, I'm sincerely grateful, Sir Seo Hweol."
"Haha, not at all. It's all due to your effort..."
I let all the sweet nothings Seo Hweol spouted go in one ear and out the other.
But at this moment, my gratitude towards Seo Hweol is genuine.
Thank you, Seo Hweol.
For a moment, I nearly forgot my purpose, being chased by the terrifying existence known as a True Immortal.
But seeing Seo Hweol's scheming brought me back to my senses, his unique brand of nastiness sobering me up.
Disgust overcame fear.
'I will steal the Heavenly Lightning Banner, no matter what.'
I don't have good feelings for Jeon Myeong-hoon.
But seeing him, who always thought he was better than everyone else, losing everything and crying pitifully, reminded me of myself in the past.
To bear such a painful heart essence should only be for the Mad Lord and Seo Hweol,
And isnt it enough with just me?
If Jeon Myeong-hoon goes mad and rampages, countless humans and even devils will be slaughtered by the Lightning Harbinger Jeon Myeong-hoon.
I can prevent the tragedy that starts with Jeon Myeong-hoon.
I'll steal the Heavenly Lightning Banner and
I've decided to firmly put it into Seo Hweol's pocket, who constantly engages in disgusting schemes.
The memory of my conversation with [Him] is terrifyingly horrific and dreadful.
Shouldn't such a wonderful experience be shared?
I will definitely let Seo Hweol know.
'Thank you, Seo Hweol.'
Thanks to you, I've regained my focus.
Leaving Seo Hweol behind, I step onto the stage and stand before Gyu-ryeon.
As a survivor of the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion, you may choose one of the seven Immortal Beast True Bloods. Which one will you choose?
Droplets of blood float before me.
Each droplet represents a different Immortal Beast:
The Immortal Beast Black Dragon ().
The Immortal Beast Supreme Tiger ().
The Immortal Beast Azure Peng ().
The Immortal Beast Lustrous Glaze Peacock ().
The Immortal Beast Yin Ghost Black Turtle ().
The Immortal Beast Mountain-Destroying Demon Ape ().
The Immortal Beast White-Winged Heavenly Pegasus ().
"I will..."
Spiritual energy gathers on each droplet of blood, and the forms of Immortal Beasts flicker above them.
The shape of a dragon with black scales, the figure of a massive tiger, the appearance of an azure peng,
The form of a peacock in seven colors, the figure of a black turtle commanding ghosts, the appearance of a monkey with mountains sprouting all over its body, and the shape of a horse with white wings pass over the droplets of blood.
"I will choose this."
I pointed at one of the droplets of blood.
Author's Note:
A minor setting collection that does not have a significant impact on the plot.
The relationships between the Immortal Beasts appearing in the Regressors Tale:
The Black Dragon and the Supreme Tiger do not get along and fight whenever they meet. These two beasts generally do not get along with most other beasts and growl whenever they meet.
The Azure Peng tries to eat the offspring of the Black Dragon upon meeting and flees from the Supreme Tiger due to being overpowered. It gets along with all other Immortal Beasts except for the Lustrous Glaze Peacock.
The Azure Peng tries to kill the Lustrous Glaze Peacock upon meeting, while the Lustrous Glaze Peacock tries to lay its eggs when meeting the Azure Peng. Not just with the Azure Peng, but it also desires to mate with the Supreme Tiger, the Black Dragon, the Mountain-Destroying Demon Ape, and the White Winged Heavenly Pegasus, making it the most ill-reputed among the beasts. However, it avoids the Yin Ghost Black Turtle as its yin energy does not benefit its eggs.
The Yin Ghost Black Turtle, when meeting the Mountain-Destroying Demon Ape, brings ghosts to have a joyous time together. It is a welcomed figure among Immortal Beasts with strong yin energy but is shunned by those with strong yang energy.
The Mountain-Destroying Demon Ape and the White Winged Heavenly Pegasus, due to the nature of the powers they possess, inevitably cause natural disasters when they meet, regardless of whether their relationship is good or bad. These two Immortal Beasts always maintain a neutral relationship with other Immortal Beasts.
-x-X-x-
What I chose was the True Blood of the Black Dragon.
It was an obvious decision.
'After all, to infiltrate within the Dragon Race, it will be most advantageous to receive and refine the blood of the same Dragon Race.'
Moreover, the Black Dragon symbolizes the Supreme Yin and controls the power of water, being an Immortal Beast, which allows me to walk with my head held high within the Sea Dragon Race, a branch of the Black Dragon Race.
Furthermore, receiving the true blood of the Black Dragon would provide an opportunity to delve into the secrets of the Black Dragon King Hyeon Eum and also establish a relationship with the Mystical Scaled Fish Commanding Sect, which is set to be the vanguard against the Devil Realm invasion by the Human Race Grand Alliance.
The benefits of obtaining just one drop of the Black Dragon's true blood are not limited to just one or two.
Of course, by accepting the true blood of the Black Dragon, there is also a possibility that the Black Dragon King can influence me in return, but honestly, hes not so frightening.
The truly fearsome are not such beings.
Thinking about the sense of fear when meeting [Him] compared to the pressure when meeting the Black Dragon King, I believe I can overcome any influence the Black Dragon King might try to exert through his blood.
"Yes, the true blood of the Black Dragon, that's a good choice."
Gyu-ryeon smiles warmly, as if proud of me for choosing the true blood of the same Dragon Race.
After receiving a drop of the Black Dragon's true blood, I step down from the platform.
Seo Hweol also smiles warmly at me, showering me with good wishes.
"Indeed, you have an exceptional eye. In the Earth Tribe, there's no power as revered as that of the Dragon Race. You've made a choice you won't regret. Moreover, with the power of the Black Dragon, it will perfectly match the Summoning Wind, True Blood Transformation."
"I am thankful for your kindness."
"Good, as soon as you return to the Sea Dragon Palace, I will do my utmost to assist you in quickly refining the true blood of the Black Dragon."
'Do my utmost to help, my foot.'
But outwardly, I just smile back, not showing my true feelings in return.
"I am always grateful for Sir Seo Hweol's kindness."
Help me as soon as we return?
Sorry, but that's not going to happen.
Because 4 months before participating in the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion, I had already sown the seeds.
'It's about time for news to start coming in.'
No, the Sea Dragon King will hear the news as soon as he arrives at the Sea Dragon Palace.
I had deliberately manipulated things so that we will receive the news at that time.
I return to the Sea Dragon Palace with the other Sea Dragons, smiling alongside Seo Hweol after receiving the dragons true blood.
"Now, since such a joyous event has occurred in our Sea Dragon Race, I'm thinking of throwing a big feast this time. Oh, and...."
Just when Seo Hweol rambles on.
"Hmm?"
He suddenly discovers that countless members of the Sea Dragon Race are outside Cloud Heart Lake, where the Sea Dragon Palace is located.
"Hmm, what brings you all out here?"
"Well, that is..."
One of the elders of the Sea Dragon Race, looking anxious, bows his head in embarrassment.
"...A thief has infiltrated the Sea Dragon Palace and has stolen various precious treasures from around the palace."
"How could a mere thief infiltrate the Sea Dragon Palace?"
"That, I am ashamed to say. We are all out doing our utmost to investigate but..."
"First, tell me the extent of the treasures stolen from the Sea Dragon Palace."
"...The entire internal treasury of the Sea Dragon Palace has been plundered."
"...What?"
Seo Hweol's eyes narrow.
He transforms into his human form and, with a stern expression, looks around at the elders.
"Are you saying that unheard-of thieves easily moved in and out, stealing from the Sea Dragon Palace which you, as Heavenly Being stage elders, are supposed to guard as securely as a fortress?"
His tone, previously respectful towards the race's elders, shifts as if he is addressing his own subordinates.
"It seems to me that this is not the work of an external thief but rather, there is a thief within our own ranks, or perhaps someone who colluded with them. All of you must take responsibility for this situation where the entire internal treasury has vanished."
"...We are deeply ashamed."
For the first time, I see Seo Hweol in a 'furious' state, unlike any demeanor I had seen from him before.
But internally, I sneer.
'He's just pretending to be angry. He's not really disturbed.'
Seo Hweol doesn't seem to genuinely regret the loss of his treasury.
Its more so that he is merely using this incident as a pretext to discipline his subordinates.
'His heart is filled with malice, but he lacks greed.'
I observe Seo Hweol closely.
'But instead of greed, he is skilled at using such opportunities to enhance his political power.'
He will probably be busy sorting out the Sea Dragon Palaces internal affairs for a while using this incident as a pretext.
That is enough for me.
If I can buy just a few days, I can refine the Black Dragon's true blood to the extent that I won't need Seo Hweol's help.
From the beginning, the thieves who entered the Sea Dragon Palace were those I had brought in.
To the numerous aquatic demon beasts who lost dominion over Cloud Heart Lake to the Sea Dragon Race, I had merely opened the doors of various parts of the Sea Dragon Palace completely under my control and handed over maps detailing the palace's layout.
'Already discontent with the Sea Dragon Race, they must have eagerly stolen during Seo Hweol's absence at the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion, given the opportunity I created.'
With such an incident occurring in the Sea Dragon Palace, even Seo Hweol himself can't focus on me immediately.
Sure enough, he looks at me and says,
"It can't be helped, I will look after your practice three days later. In the meantime, do not rashly attempt to refine the Black Dragon's true blood, and try your best to enhance your vitality."
"Understood."
Seo Hweol leaves to discuss the issue of the Sea Dragon Palace's internal treasury with the Sea Dragon Race's elders, and I enter the Sea Dragon Palace, first deactivating the Blood Body Skin Armor I had been wearing during the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion.
Swish!
The flesh that had been integrated with my body falls off and forms a figure with a splashing sound.
Its Yuan Yu.
I have Yuan Yu bring ink, a brush, and high-quality silk used for sending letters in the Bright Cold realm.
Despite having the convenient method of voice transmission, sending a letter is something done when one wishes to present oneself in the best possible light to someone of higher status.
Now that I've bought three days, I must find a way to escape Seo Hweol's grasp during this time.
Its already been 10 months since I returned.
Thanks to Seo Hweol's recommendation, I am a clear member of the Sea Dragon Race.
However, Seo Hweol deliberately prevented me from leaving the Sea Dragon Palace on the pretext that I hadn't even reached the Qi Building stage.
While I had control over the inner workings of the Sea Dragon Palace, being unable to leave meant I had no interactions with others outside of the Sea Dragon Race and a few aquatic demon races near the palace.
Even if I were to learn techniques like the Summoning Wind, Sacred Blood Transformation in the future, I might be able to leave the Sea Dragon Palace, but escaping Seo Hweol's influence will be impossible.
Its time to leave the Sea Dragon Palace.
I send a letter to Gyu-ryeon, the only Dragon Race member besides Seo Hweol with whom I am acquainted.
To the respected Senior Gyu-ryeon,
This lacking junior Seo, sends this letter.
Thanks to Senior Gyu-ryeon's care, Sir Seo Hweol, all members of the Sea Dragon Race, and I have settled well at Cloud Heart Lake and are diligently cultivating in peace.
Sir Seo Hweol cannot express enough how grateful he is to Senior Gyu-ryeon. The reason for sending this inconvenient letter is to kindly request your assistance in refining the Black Dragon's true blood that I obtained by participating in the Immortal Blood Beast Fusion.
From the first meeting, I have always admired the dragon-like demeanor of Senior Gyu-ryeon, and since Senior Gyu-ryeon is a benefactor to me and the Sea Dragon Race I belong to, it would be a matter of great gratitude to the heavens if Senior Gyu-ryeon could assist in the refinement of the Black Dragon's true blood.
If Senior Gyu-ryeon assists in refining the Black Dragon's true blood, I would like to offer 20,000 spirit stones, 100 catties of Azure Sea Stone, 10 catties of Five Colored Salt, seven pieces of Scarlet Coral, and the scales shed by Sir Seo Hweol as a token of gratitude, which I received as a reward from Sir Seo Hweol for assisting him in his duties within the Sea Dragon Palace.
Moreover, as someone who has gained the trust of Sir Seo Hweol and has been bestowed with numerous treasures, after refining the Black Dragon's true blood, I plan to invite Senior Gyu-ryeon to the Sea Dragon Palace based on this favor. Sir Seo Hweol also desires to meet Senior Gyu-ryeon to inquire about the insights of cultivation, but it has always been difficult to arrange a suitable occasion for this.
Therefore, I will create an opportunity to share insights with one another. Hence, I humbly ask for your favor in assisting this junior in purifying the true blood.
From your lacking junior, Seo.
The moment Gyu-ryeon first saw Seo Hweol, it was clear that she was smitten, and during the last Immortal Beast Blood Fusion, it was evident to me that she harbored a secret affection for him, unnoticed by anyone else.
'With such a substantial offering, there's no reason for her to refuse.'
Of course, these weren't rewards given by Seo Hweol but, naturally, the spoils I would receive from the aquatic demon races after handing over the map of the Sea Dragon Palace and unlocking its protective barriers for them to steal treasures in exchange.
The demon beast races will secretly distribute the treasures among themselves by tomorrow.
After folding the silk letter, I head to the Dragon Communication Pond located somewhere within the Sea Dragon Palace.
The Dragon Communication Pond is a means of communication within the dwellings of the Dragon Race, used for holding meetings or exchanging messages over long distances among dragons.
Wo-woong!
Standing in front of the brightly shining pond, I lift the silk letter and take out the jade bottle containing the Immortal Beast true blood bestowed by Gyu-ryeon.
The Dragon Communication Pond is designed so that it can not be used by anyone other than dragons, to secure conversations shared among the Dragon Race. It requires the infusion of a dragon's essence to operate.
Of course.
Wo-woong!
As I infuse the energy from the jade bottle containing the Immortal Beast's true blood into the Dragon Communication Pond, the pond shines brightly and displays the dragons connected to the Sea Dragon Palace's Dragon Communication Pond.
The most frequently contacted dragons' forms appear prominently in the pond, with the largest being the form of the Black Dragon King Hyeon Eum, followed by a few Sea Dragon Race elders living outside the Sea Dragon Palace, then the Four-Axis stage cultivators of the Black Dragon Race, and the Heavenly Being stage elders.
'It seems there's quite frequent communication with the Black Dragon Race.'
Next to the figure of a Heavenly Being stage elder of the Black Dragon Race is Gyu-ryeon's figure.
"Gyu-ryeon, connect."
Tsst-tsst-tsst!
Gyu-ryeon's form enlarges as the Dragon Communication Pond connects to the one in her abode.
"Transmit."
Wo-woong!
I drop the neatly folded silk onto the pond connected to Gyu-ryeon's Dragon Communication Pond.
Pffft!
The pond shines and transmits the silk to Gyu-ryeon's pond.
After deactivating the Dragon Communication Pond, I manipulate the Sea Dragon Palace to erase any records of my using the pond and return to my room.
A response should arrive within three days.
About two days passed.
Kugugugu!
Above the Sea Dragon Palace, the massive figure of Gyu-ryeon appears.
Feeling Gyu-ryeon's energy, I fly above the Sea Dragon Palace, and she, who had been searching for something with her face pressed against the barrier, transforms into her human form with bright eyes upon seeing me.
Paaaat!
Transformed into a woman dressed in robes, she enters inside the barrier and stands before me, saying,
"Hem-hem, is it really true? The things written in the letter..."
Seeing her face turn red as she fiddles with her hands and asks me, I feel a twinge of guilt.
'It feels a bit wrong to use someone in love like this.'
Nonetheless, seeing her makes it clear.
Gyu-ryeon definitely has feelings for Seo Hweol.
"Yes, of course. Ah, and please, don't mention the contents of the letter to Sir Seo Hweol. I want to surprise him as well. Haha."
"Ah, I understand. That sounds good. I'll do that."
She nods her head, and in the meantime, the Sea Dragon Race elders quickly fly to the Sea Dragon Palace upon her arrival.
"Isn't that Senior Gyu-ryeon?"
"What brings you to the Sea Dragon Palace?"
"Ah..."
She coughs and gestures towards me.
"This child here has received the Black Dragon's true blood in the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion. Its very commendable that a human would try to continue the lineage of an Immortal Beast like the Black Dragon, so I came personally to assist with the refinement of the true blood."
"Ah..."
"Heum heum, I see."
The Sea Dragon Race elders seem perplexed but nod in acceptance.
However, their eyes betray their confusion about why she would go to such lengths to help someone like me, a mere human.
Just then.
Paaat!
Seo Hweol appears on the scene with a smile.
"What a warm-hearted gesture from Senior Gyu-ryeon to take care of a member of the Sea Dragon Race like this. I'm deeply moved."
"Ah, Seo, Seo Hweol has also arrived. Well, even though he's a human and has yet to reach a significant cultivation realm, he possesses a consciousness of the Nascent Soul stage and has chosen the Black Dragon's true blood. It's only natural for me to help such a talent.
She tries not to show her embarrassment in front of Seo Hweol, controlling her heartbeat to maintain a calm complexion as she speaks.
Yet, to me, its clear her affection for Seo Hweol is barely contained.
"I'm always grateful to Senior Gyu-ryeon. Seo Eun-hyun, whom I'm considering as my direct disciple, is a brilliant talent of our race. It would be a great favor if Senior could assist with the refinement."
Seo Hweol allows her to help with my refinement without objecting.
But, in the next moment.
Seo Hweol gently holds Gyu-ryeon's hand with both of his, smiling softly.
"Seeing Senior Gyu-ryeon care so much for our Sea Dragon Race and treat Seo Eun-hyun, whom I cherish, with such warmth overflows my heart with gratitude. If Senior wishes, the refinement of Eun-hyun's true blood can be conducted within the Sea Dragon Palace. I will arrange a place for it, and perhaps we could share a cup of tea occasionally. It's my wish to express gratitude since I find no other way to do so."
...!
When Seo Hweol held her hand, Gyu-ryeon failed to control her heartbeat, and her face turned explosively red.
And I bit my lip inwardly.
'Damn, the whole point of getting Gyu-ryeon to take me to her abode and assist with the refinement of the true blood was to escape Seo Hweol's influence...'
If she accepts Seo Hweol's proposal to help with my refinement within the Sea Dragon Palace, it will be problematic.
'I was counting on the Dragon Race's tendency to prefer handling matters within their own domain...'
This plan was based on the characteristics of the Dragon Race I learned while living with Seo Ran, practicing the Summoning Wind, Dragon Transformation in his abode.
But if things go as Seo Hweol suggested...
Just then.
"Hmm, hmm. Sorry, but recently, the slaves in my domain have started a rebellion, and I need to suppress them. It seems a bit difficult to accommodate your request."
"Ah, that's unfortunate."
"Indeed."
"I've also been troubled recently, as thieves broke into the Sea Dragon Palace and plundered our internal treasury. It seems your situation, Senior Gyu-ryeon, is not unlike mine."
"Indeed, the atmosphere has been quite uneasy lately. There are reports of ominous vibes from the dimensional barriers of the Blood Yin Realm, and the activities of the Heart Tribe are becoming increasingly active..."
"It's truly a tumultuous time, and it seems Senior Gyu-ryeon is facing difficulties, so... we of the Sea Dragon Race will dispatch some of our members to your domain to assist with quelling the rebellion."
"Really?"
"Yes, as I mentioned before, the recent break-in makes it feel all too similar."
Using the excuse of similarity, Seo Hweol assigned a few members of the Sea Dragon Race to Gyu-ryeon.
Though the pretext is assisting Gyu-ryeon in suppressing the rebellion, the intention is clear.
'They're meant to keep an eye on me.'
Indeed, even after managing to escape his influence, Seo Hweol's insistence on attaching surveillance is truly exasperating.
"Then, having caught such a fortunate opportunity for Senior Gyu-ryeon to assist you, I hope you refine the true blood of the Black Dragon well."
Pat-pat.
Seo Hweol pats my shoulder, encouraging me, and while pretending to do so, he slyly infuses spiritual energy into my identity plaque, obviously tampering with it.
'As soon as I arrive at Gyu-ryeon's domain, I'll have to stash away this identity plaque somewhere.'
Thinking so, I bid Seo Hweol farewell and set off with Gyu-ryeon to her domain.
After flying for about half an hour, we arrive at Gyu-ryeon's domain, a picturesque landscape filled with rugged mountains.
Between the mountains, white clouds linger, giving off the feel of a realm where immortals lived.
Her abode is located in a cave on the highest peak among the mountains.
"Now, come down here for now. And, you said you are warriors from the Sea Dragon Race?
Gyu-ryeon addresses the young Nascent Soul stage Sea Dragons who followed us.
Although they're from a slave race, the ones in my domain have caused quite a widespread rebellion, so everyone will need to put in some effort."
"We will keep that in mind."
"Though they have rebelled, they are still my property, so try to avoid a massacre and focus on capturing the leaders of the rebellion."
"Yes!"
"Then, I will proceed to assist Seo Eun-hyun with the refinement of his true blood..."
Smiling, I speak up in front of Gyu-ryeon.
"No, as a member of the Sea Dragon Race, I can't just watch the warriors struggle. I will also follow them to suppress the rebellion."
"What?"
Hearing my words, one of the Sea Dragons widens his eyes in surprise.
The suppression of the rebellion is just a pretext. In reality, they were sent to monitor me.
If that's the case, I might as well remove their pretext.
"Ah, truly a loyal talent. Though human, showing such dedication to the Sea Dragon Race."
Gyu-ryeon nods, pleased with my attitude.
"Go and assist them. It's good to see someone taking the initiative to help the faction's cause, even if from a different race. Though still at the Qi Building stage, having endured the Immortal Beast Blood Fusion, your vitality and strength should be comparable to a Nascent Soul cultivator."
"Yes, I've always wanted to repay Senior Gyu-ryeon for the kindness she has shown to the Sea Dragon Race, however small the gesture might be. Thank you for giving me this opportunity."
She smiles more warmly at my words, and the Sea Dragon warriors appear about to say something but instead bite their lips.
Wo-woong!
She raises a golden sphere of spiritual energy above her hand.
"Follow this sphere, and it will lead you to the area of my domain where the rebellion is happening. I hope you can suppress it and return."
"...Yes."
The three Sea Dragon Race warriors nod and fly out of the cave.
I sought permission from one of the warriors and climbed onto his back.
"Then, I'll be back soon, Senior Gyu-ryeon."
"Go on, then."
Just before the Sea Dragon warrior uses the Flying Escape Technique,
She seems to remember something and says,
"Ah, yes! Although they are a weaker slave race with their maximum power at the Qi Building stage, be careful."
With Nascent Soul stage power, including this junior, there are four of us. No matter how numerous or widespread the rebellion, it's merely a bit troublesome. Senior Gyu-ryeon should not worry."
"No, I've heard that a member of the Heart Tribe has appeared among the slave race."
At her words, my eyes narrow sharply.
"Even though I've heard that they are weak, only reaching the Core Formation stage in power... Still, the Heart Tribe is known for using peculiar and profound abilities, so everyone be careful."
-x-X-x-
'Heart Tribe!?'
Surprised, I hastily turn around, but by now, the Sea Dragon warriors are already flying swiftly through the sky, following the trail of light sent by Gyu-ryeon, and the distance between us and Gyu-ryeon quickly widens.
Hold on, how about asking Senior Gyu about the Heart Tribe?"
I hastily speak to the Sea Dragon warriors, but they respond indifferently.
"Didn't you hear something about the Heart Tribe or whatever being at the Core Formation stage?"
"Lets just go quickly."
"No"
Im about to say one or two things to the Sea Dragon warriors but then remember that it hasn't even been a year since we ascended.
'...Do they still not know how much the Heart Tribe is feared and revered in the Bright Cold Realm?'
Thinking about it, talking about the Bright Cold Realm when it hasn't even been a year since our ascension is pointless.
'No choice then. I'll have to leave them be.'
Following the orb of light sent by Gyu-ryeon, I think about the still naive Sea Dragon warriors.
'I'll leave them be, and while they suppress the rebellion... I'll meet the Heart Tribe.'
I've heard about the Heart Tribe before, but what exactly they do,
And what exactly is the Heart Path Method, is what I need to find out.
Its time to understand more about them.
'Let's meet them and find out what theyre about!'
Whoosh!
How many landscapes have I passed?
Flash!
The light sent by Gyu-ryeon explodes over a massive mountain range.
"This place is"
The explosion of light means we have reached our destination.
"The largest Long Spirit Wood Flower farm in the Dragon Race Territory...?"
The scene beyond the mountain range is breathtaking.
The vast farm in front of me, absorbing sunlight and shining brightly, seems to be spitting out white flames.
No, it isn't just a feeling. Around the flowers of the white plants in Gyu-ryeon's farm, there is indeed a flame-like white spiritual energy flickering.
Long Spirit Wood Flower.
Or also known as the Everlasting Flower, these white blossoms produce the essential cotton used in the majority of clothing worn by cultivators in the Bright Cold Realm.
For many cultivators, surpassing the Qi Building stage often results in their clothes being torn to shreds or becoming rags due to battles.
While high-level cultivators can create clothing through spells, those of lower levels have to change into spare clothes or walk around naked, which is quite inconvenient.
Hoping for intact clothing in the constantly warring Bright Cold Realm is laughably nave.
Thus, many cultivators quietly worried about clothing, and three solutions emerged.
Learning spells to weave clothes from spiritual energy.
Wearing clothes that can restore themselves even after being torn or burnt.
Overcoming the embarrassment and walking around naked.
The third option, while humorous, was surprisingly adopted by many, including Azure Tiger Saint. But it is chosen only by those who are very confident in their abilities.
Anyway, the first option is only feasible for high-level cultivators.
The second option, enchanting clothes with restoration spells, was chosen by many, including both high and low-level cultivators.
The main material used to make such self-restoring clothes is precisely the Long Spirit Wood Flower.
Clothes made from Long Spirit Wood Flower can be regenerated by infusing a single remaining piece with spiritual energy, even if they were completely torn or burnt, making them extremely useful.
The main ingredient, the Long Spirit Wood Flower, which thrives only in areas abundant in spiritual energy, has a unique property of continuous regeneration when its cotton is harvested with spells by high-level cultivators, ensuring a never-ending supply.
Thus, cultivators who grow Long Spirit Wood Flowers often enslave weaker races as cotton slaves to manage the harvest.
Whoosh, whoosh!
As I look at the cotton field, contemplating the Long Spirit Wood Flower,
From afar, a crimson flame is engulfing the cotton field.
"Is that the rebel army?"
"None of them even seem to have reached the Qi Refining stage."
Behind the flames, an enormous presence can be felt, a truly terrifying number.
'How many are there?'
"Now, let's go down. Everyone, suppress the slaves on your own, kill all the leaders of the rebellion, and then report to Senior Gyu."
"Will do."
The Sea Dragon warrior carrying me shakes his head, dropping me off before flying away.
The Sea Dragon warriors, paying no heed to me, swiftly fly towards the numerous demon beasts to suppress them.
I watch them for a moment before looking at the slave races setting the cotton field on fire.
'The Heart Tribe is said to be here. Being at the Core Formation level must surely mean the prowess of Beyond the Path to Heavens.'
Though Im still confused about what the Heart Tribe is, I can at least speculate after hearing from Jang Ik and witnessing his strike.
'Surely, members of the Heart Tribe can recognize each other at first sight.'
Bang, bang!
I kick off through the air, heading towards the flames.
There, the races committing arson are not just one or two.
Numerous races are mingling, setting fires.
The races of the Bright Cold Realm live exposed to the dense spiritual energy of the Bright Cold Realm, hence the majority are born with the strength of at least the Qi Refining stage.
Yet, even in the Bright Cold Realm, there are those who are weak.
Those whose natural bodies are too frail to properly absorb the dense spiritual energy of the Bright Cold Realm, unable to learn demon beast methods.
And those who could not find a sacrifice method, thus unable to learn the Heaven Tribe or Earth Tribe methods.
Such people, classified as weaker races in the Bright Cold Realm, are often captured by the Heaven and Earth Tribes to be enslaved or used as elixirs.
The numerous races currently setting fire are likely those weaker slave races working in Gyu-ryeon's farm.
Just when I think so.
Zing
Suddenly, the tension sharply rises.
A feeling as if my neck can be sliced open at any moment!
A sense predicting murderous intent, akin to future foresight
'This is'
Not just any killing intent.
Heart language!
Its the heart language exchanged between warriors who have reached the realm of Beyond the Path to Heavens.
Someone is speaking through heart language.
No, asking.
Who are you?
Zap, zap
'This is'
I smile, accepting the sensation given by the heart language.
Following that sensation, I look towards the place where this heart language is sent from.
Gyu-ryeon's information seems to be incorrect.
Not Beyond the Path to Heavens, but Treading Heavens?'
Kugugugu!
From afar, three Sea Dragon warriors are gasping for breath.
I shout at them.
"Avoid it, there's a Heart Tribe member over there!"
However, despite clearly hearing my shout, they ignore it and spew rays of light from their mouths.
And the next moment.
Flash!
Swoosh!
A crimson stream.
A sunset-colored river wave, blocking the breath of the Sea Dragon warriors.
'Ah'
I can feel it.
The one who blocked the attack of those three Nascent Soul stage Sea Dragon warriors is definitely in the Treading Heavens realm!
I suppress the excitement climbing up my spine, intending to run towards that direction.
However, just as Im about to run over there.
Shriek!
Chill!
I quickly step backward, retreating with a light-footed technique at the sudden sense of ominousness invading my mind.
Kwagwagwang!
The next moment, a huge valley appears right where I was about to cross.
"I need to complain to Senior Gyu."
Not just one Heart Tribe member, but two.
'No, maybe Senior Gyu only managed to ascertain one till now.'
Wo-woong!
From afar, a scarlet river of sunset is flowing, sweeping along three Sea Dragon warriors like a tide.
They appear as if three snakes are trapped in a sunset-colored sea.
That side is undoubtedly in the Treading Heavens realm, yet the sensation unique to the Treading Heavens realm is not something I can detect with either demon beast methods or Heaven Tribe methods.
'Detection doesn't work, huh. Seems like they don't know either...'
Step, step
I look at a figure emerging from the cotton field, a bipedal goat with white fur.
"Are you the Core Formation stage Heart Tribe member Senior Gyu mentioned?"
The creature is definitely a Beyond the Path to Heavens level expert.
I look at what this goat demon is holding.
'A whip?'
Its a thin leather whip.
A thin whip used for lashing slaves.
However, strangely, on the forehead of this goat demon holding a whip meant for beating slaves, there is a clear mark of a slave.
The goat demon with the slave mark on their forehead has an overall gentle and rounded appearance.
The fur itself seems incredibly fluffy and soft, and the eyes exude a clear and soft temperament.
Moreover, due to its small stature, it looks quite cute at first glance.
But I swallow my saliva as I observe them.
'Underneath the fur...'
I cant count how many scars there are.
Beneath the soft and cute fur, there are marks like whip lashes densely packed like rain streaks.
A formidable opponent indeed.
I raise my tension and ask,
"Are you from the Heart Tribe?"
"..."
"Is the Heart Path Method what you practice?"
"..."
"Your Heart Tribe..."
And then.
Meeeeeeh
The creature cries out and lashes the whip.
Kwagwagwang!
"!"
Again, a valley forms where the whip strikes.
'Ah, I see. Am I an idiot?'
I realize as I watch the Heart Tribe member cry out.
The demon language I am using is a universal language among demons, but now that I think about it, these Heart Tribe members wouldn't have the Earth Tribe's vision, naturally not learning the demon language.
[Hey, I asked if you were from the Heart Tribe.]
I once again speak to it using mental language, which operates on consciousness.
[Can you tell me what the Heart Path Method is? How does your Heart Tribe distinguish levels of attainment? What enlightenment have you achieved?]
Finally, I got a proper response from them.
[You've been babbling to yourself all this time. Are you trying to compete with words?]
"...Ha."
I wonder why.
Despite being insulted by an opponent of a lower realm than myself, I don't feel bad at all.
Instead, I grab the air with a bright smile.
[My apologies.]
No more words are needed.
Bo-oong!
Tearing through the air, I surge the Formless Sword throughout my body, not drawing upon demon beast methods.
Nor do I awaken the Nascent Soul, forcibly sealing the ability to perceive planes.
After sealing all Heaven and Earth Tribe methods,
I charge at them while maintaining a pure state of Treading Heavens.
'Indeed, is the Heart Path Method a martial art?'
Today, I shall find the answer.
My attack collides with that of the goat.
Kugugugu!
The scarlet river swallows the Sea Dragon warriors.
The three warriors gasp for breath as they face their opponent.
They can't identify who it is.
The techniques being used are also unknown.
Even the main body's location can't be detected.
Yet the perceived size of the consciousness feels infinitely small!
'What is this, who is this person...'
The eldest among the Sea Dragon warriors, the veteran.
Jeon Gyeok summons the storm, filling the surrounding sky as he clenches his teeth.
Kurung, Kururung!
Dark clouds infuse the Sea Dragon warriors with strength.
Normally, they would become immortal warriors who do not tire until their energy runs out, but facing this entity,
They feel like they are barely clinging to life with these techniques.
"Ugh, so you're the leader of the rebellion! I haven't heard of a Nascent Soul stage rebel force..."
Jeon Gyeok throws out any statement to probe the opponent.
But the opponent does not react.
He tries various offers and questions to probe the opponent but is met with silence.
Jeon Gyeok starts to grow anxious.
'If this continues, our energy will be completely depleted. Senior Gyu hasn't arrived yet, and to end like this...'
Just then.
[Hmmm, the owner of this domain, the Four-Axis stage Earth Tribe member, hasn't shown up?]
Jeon Gyeok brightens up upon hearing the opponent murmur.
'Right, they may do well against opponents of the same realm, but it seems they lack confidence when facing higher-level cultivators.'
Jeon Gyeok shouts with a feigned stern expression.
"We are just the vanguard. Within half an hour, Elder Gyu-ryeon of the True Dragon Alliance will arrive. We may not be able to defeat you, but we can hold you off until then."
Jeon Gyeok signals to the other Sea Dragon Race warriors to draw up their energy as if to bind the presence before them within a barrier immediately.
'Having done this much, surely they'll be flustered and try to retreat. That's when we will temporarily retreat and ask for help from Senior Gyu...'
"Everyone, surround that..."
And then.
The owner of the scarlet river chuckles.
[Such bravado. I take it the Four-Axis monster isnt coming?]
"Haha, if you want to believe that..."
[Did you think I wouldn't notice you rolling your eyes and exchanging opinions? Keke You've been anxious from the start, indeed The Four-Axis hasn't shown up.]
"...The Four-Axis hasnt arrived, but."
Jeon Gyeok quickly thinks of a way out.
"We are warriors of the Sea Dragon Race. We came prepared to die to suppress you... the Heart Tribe. If our situation becomes dire, we have techniques prepared to self-destruct..."
[That's a lie.]
"Foolish as it may be, even if we don't self-destruct, the human ally that came with us is closely related to us. If he exerts his full strength, he can unleash power at the Heavenly Being stage. If we find ourselves in danger, he will"
[That also seems like a lie.]
"So suspicious. But no matter how much you doubt, it doesn't change the truth. However, think about it. A senior of the Four-Axis stage is on her way here, we came prepared with a self-destruction technique, and in fact, having that human ally means we actually have an advantage over you. Moreover, we were ordered to capture those who started the rebellion alive, so we were only fighting moderately. Being distant relatives of the Black Dragon Race, we can draw a considerable amount of power from the ancestral blood of the Black Dragon"
[My goodness, everything except the words 'capture alive' and 'distant relatives of the Black Dragon Race' is a lie. You aren't Sea Dragons but Bragging Dragons, did you introduce yourselves incorrectly?]
"..."
Jeon Gyeok glares at his opponent.
'What in the world?'
It feels like his heart is being read.
He knows nothing about his opponent, but the opponent seems to be reading him in real-time, an eerie discomfort..
[You seem displeased. Getting more afraid, arent you?]
"..."
Not just Jeon Gyeok, but the other Sea Dragon warriors who share his thoughts turn pale.
Its clear.
The entity before them can easily read their innermost thoughts.
That discomfort and fear.
Jeon Gyeok had seen such a being only once before.
'Mad Lord, Jo Yeon...'
A lunatic who had controlled two Four-Axis stage puppets from the Lower Realm.
The sensation of having one's soul pierced through was something he had only felt in the presence of that person.
Of course, Jeon Gyeok did not believe the mad old man could read his thoughts, but there was something in common between the uncomfortable feeling given by the Mad Lord's transparent eyes and this current discomfort.
[The problem with you Heaven and Earth Tribes is this. Always, when facing the threat of death, you desperately do anything to survive. It's not necessarily bad, but wouldn't it be normal to have one or two who stick to their convictions? Have I only been dealing with small fries?]
"You are..."
[Enough, shut up. I'm not interested in playing with you fools anymore, and that guy over there seems somewhat interesting.]
The scarlet river seems to laugh with a giggle.
Jeon Gyeok tries to say something, but the next moment.
He clenches his teeth as he sees the scarlet wave rushing at him without a word.
"Damn it, are you determined to see this through to the end!"
[Hahaha, you think you can last till the end with me? Seeing that you don't know much about the Heart Tribe, you must have only recently ascended... Remember this well. The Heart Tribe... if you want to catch them, you must dig a good trap and not confront them with excessive force. With the power of your Heaven and Earth Tribes, it will never be easy.]
Peeee
At that moment, Jeon Gyeok hears a ringing in his ears.
Its the sound of singing.
'This, this is...!'
As soon as he recognizes the song, Jeon Gyeok feels the strength draining from his body.
Not just a sensation, but his life force and spiritual energy are actually being siphoned away.
'Ah, no...'
What?
To die like this?
So absurdly?
Jeon Gyeok blankly watches as life force drains out of his body.
Life is not under control.
Qi is not under his control, scattering absurdly easily.
'To die so easily...'
[Your mistake was first and foremost, not knowing about the Heart Tribe. And that I'm someone who has seen your Heaven and Earth Tribes so annoyingly often. That's about it. Farewell.]
Thwoong!
With the sound like a string being snapped, Jeon Gyeok loses consciousness.
With that, Jeon Gyeok died.
As simply and vainly as one would swat a bug.
The three warriors of the Sea Dragon Race died like this.
And the owner of the scarlet river turns their gaze elsewhere.
Where a loud explosion is occuring.
Kwagwang, Kwagwagwang!
The earth trembles, dust clouds rise, and a long whip flies in all directions.
As the whip extends,
An invisible formless sword swings like a whip.
Seo Eun-hyun charges at the goat, raising both arms and exerting force on his lower abdomen, back, and shoulders.
For an instant, his muscles seem to swell, and the Formless Sword strikes down towards the goat.
The goat is no easy opponent.
The goat swings the whip from lower right to upper left.
In that moment, the ghost infuses Qi into the whip with a twist of the wrist.
Simultaneously, the weight of the whip changes, shaking off Seo Eun-hyun's Formless Sword.
Chwack!
As the goat twists its wrist again, the weight of the whip becomes as light as a feather, and the whip quickly retracts at an astonishing speed.
Spat!
Seo Eun-hyun swings his sword, and the goat swings their whip.
A whip that changes weight, a sword that changes shape.
Their exchange appears evenly matched at a glance.
Pshht, Pshht, Pshht!
But beneath the goat's white fur, cuts are gradually grazing it.
The goat's wrists, thumb, index finger, pinkie...
Ribcage, solar plexus, navel...
Instep, heel, calf...
Shwoosh, Shwoosh!
These are the wounds on the goat's body from Seo Eun-hyun's two movements.
The goat understands,
Their opponent is going easy on them.
No, more accurately, they are being guided.
Initially, it seemed like he was cautiously pressing the goat, testing something as if to gauge the goat's strength.
But at some point, there were several occasions when he could have split the goat's head open but chose to spare him.
Unlike the goat, whose body is already reddened in places, Seo Eun-hyun's clothes are not even scratched, completely unscathed.
'The proficiency of each technique, every one of them is terrifying.'
The goat thinks as they look at Seo Eun-hyun.
'Every single one, even the simplest techniques when embedded in the changing sword, leads to a myriad of transformations, and every stroke of myriad transformations is based on extremely proficient fundamentals, reaching the level of a lethal strike.'
Moreover, the sword wielded by this person is invisible.
Though perceivable by consciousness, being invisible to the naked eye is a tremendous disadvantage.
I can't even properly grasp what's changing right now because it's transparent.'
This won't do.
'I must decide the battle with a decisive technique.'
The goat's momentum changes.
'Pouring everything I have... I shall liberate my race...!'
The next moment.
The goat's whip soars high into the sky.
Now, with a weight heavier than Mount Tai, it prepares to fall.
Seo Eun-hyun, sensing the goats intent, readies himself.
One can be guessed.
What both are about to use are the techniques they each call their ultimate.
'No matter the outcome, I will give my all in a gesture of respect!'
And when their techniques are about to clash.
Thwoong!
With a clear sound, the goat slumps to the ground.
[Heuk...!]
Strength drains from them.
A feeling of powerlessness envelops their entire body, feeling as if they can do nothing.
Between them, the scarlet river flows.
[Hello, sorry to interrupt your fun. But you see, we're out of time. The prediction that a Four-Axis stage cultivator will come directly has dropped, and we've only caught these runts... Anyway, as promised, since a Four-Axis stage did not appear, I will allow your entire race to enter the Heart Tribe Territory, as promised.]
[...! Yes! Thank you!]
I feel my whole body become lethargic and my life force drain away as I watch the babbling scarlet river before me.
'Its dangerous.'
Im sleepy.
So sleepy and exhausted. This must be her manifestation of the Treading Heavens ability.
[Hey, friend, won't you stop fighting too? Looking at you, you're from the Human Race, and you've been learning demon beast methods under the Demon Race... And it seems like you've reached the second stage of Manifestation like us. ...Honestly, I don't have much confidence in winning against you. But if you could overlook just my friend and his race's departure, I would be truly grateful.]
So, she's asking to be let go because she doesn't think she can win against me?
Had this been before, I would have scoffed at such nonsense.
But, looking up at the sky, I chuckle softly.
If attacked, great calamity.
If not attacked, smooth sailing.
'The last trick she's hiding might be quite frightening.'
I quietly calm my inner thoughts and nod.
"Do as you wish."
[Ahahaha, thank you truly. Then, by any chance, is there anything you'd like to ask? As a token of permitting our departure, I'll answer something you're curious about.]
I immediately asked her.
"What is the Heart Path Method?"
Today, I will finally learn about the Heart Path Method.
The owner of the scarlet river replies.
[Pu, Pukukukuk... Kahahahaha!]
With a fierce laugh.
As if its the funniest thing in the world.
And then her words follow.
[Look here, friend. The Heart Path Method doesn't exist in this world.]
-x-X-x-