Volume One: The Nature of the Devil Does Not Change"
Arc: The Great Gang War"
After two weeks of training, Scarlet King broke through to the fourth level of the Qi Refining Realm. During this time, the relationship between Liu Zai Hang and Scarlet King evolved. They became rivals of sorts, and it grew increasingly clear that they shared many similarities. Because of this, their bond deepened—less like master and disciple, and more like a two-man team.
Scarlet King stepped outside. The gentle morning atmosphere was serene; mild air brushed against his face, and the scent of damp grass filled the surroundings.
Scarlet King thought to himself, his mind as calm as a quiet seashore:
"To obtain food and primordial stones, I need to build a power group within the sect—like the other gangs—to secure primordial stone mines, food, authority, and control inside the sect."
Liu Zai Hang appeared behind Scarlet King, wearing a blue sleeping robe, and spoke enthusiastically:
"Are you thinking of forming a gang?"
Scarlet King glanced over his shoulder and replied:
"You're very perceptive, Master."
Liu Zai Hang chuckled.
"I expected it—especially since a strong disciple like you would naturally try to create a power bloc to acquire resources and food. You're like a black hole: never satisfied, devouring everything that comes close. Terrifying, yet fascinating. Don't worry, I support this decision and will help you. I enjoy watching wars and the animalistic way humans fight over resources and food. I want to see what you'll do, my little disciple."
Scarlet King smiled faintly.
"It won't be a gang. It will be a faction. Its name will be the Inkblood Rebirth Darkness Faction."
Liu Zai Hang asked curiously:
"Why choose a faction instead of a gang?"
Scarlet King replied calmly:
"Gangs are everywhere. A faction is unique. There will be only one Inkblood Rebirth Darkness Faction. It's closer to a brand. Disciples will remember it easily, and it will attract strong members."
Liu Zai Hang was taken aback by the child's way of thinking. His respect—and caution—grew as he asked:
"Who will be the first to join you?"
Scarlet King looked toward a distant figure.
"My father will be first—Lin Yuan."
In the distance, Lin Yuan was walking through the market when Long Wei appeared before him. Long Wei had white hair, dragon horns, and black eyes speckled with white dots like a star-filled night sky.
"Lin Yuan," Long Wei said calmly. "I've heard you're a remarkable talent. Do you wish to join the Dragon Gang?"
Lin Yuan looked at him nervously and thought:
(Long Wei is the leader of the Dragon Gang—dangerous, intelligent, and extremely strict. But I don't want to live in someone else's shadow. I want to become a leader.)
From afar, Scarlet King and Liu Zai Hang watched.
"Lin Yuan will be the leader," Scarlet King said.
Liu Zai Hang glanced at him.
"Because I'm just a small child who supposedly understands nothing about politics or leadership," Scarlet King continued calmly. "That's why my father will be the leader."
Scarlet King thought as he moved closer:
(And I will be the hidden leader. Lin Yuan will stand in front, while I control everything from the shadows.)
Back at the market, sweat formed on Lin Yuan's brow. He steadied himself and said:
"I'm sorry, but I don't want to join any gang right now."
Long Wei's gaze sharpened. With a casual flick of his finger, he sliced Lin Yuan's neck, leaving a shallow cut that began to bleed.
"There is no refusal in my gang's dictionary," Long Wei said coldly. "Join—or die."
Lin Yuan swallowed hard, his heartbeat racing.
"I'm sorry. I already told you—I won't join."
Long Wei reacted instantly, releasing a wave of energy toward Lin Yuan.
In that moment, Lin Yuan realized he was about to die.
(It's a shame I'll die like this… but I don't regret anything—except that I never got a wife.)
But the attack was blocked by an overwhelming force.
Liu Zai Hang appeared, his aura surging as he spoke sharply:
"Disciple Long Wei, you know that killing disciples outside the Bloody Arena is forbidden, correct?"
His expression darkened as his pressure intensified.
"Then why are you trying to kill the First Elder's disciple—and the father of my disciple?"
Long Wei bowed slightly, mock respect in his eyes.
"Great Second Elder, I was merely teaching the new disciple Lin Yuan some sect rules. He attempted to attack me first, so I defended myself. You may verify this by asking the surrounding disciples."
Long Wei cast a sharp look at the onlookers. Out of fear, they all nodded. One disciple tried to speak up, but another quickly stopped him and whispered:
"That's Long Wei—the leader of the strongest gang. Don't provoke him."
The would-be witness backed down.
Liu Zai Hang frowned inwardly:
(Long Wei is clever—using fear to turn the truth against Lin Yuan. How devious.)
At the same time, Long Wei thought calmly:
(Lin Yuan must die. If another faction recruits him, they'll grow strong enough to threaten the Dragon Gang.)
From atop a nearby building, Scarlet King watched in silence—his gaze sharp, cold, and calculating.