《Winter Sovereign》


 Chapter 1: The Summit of Cultivation & Going home

    In a world with a blue sky, there is a massive azure floating castle with numerous castles of varying colors floating around it. They were splendidly arranged forming a magnificent view.


    In the area, there were numerous individuals going their way.


    There were graceful and beautiful women who appeared as goddesses or fairies. There were valiant and handsome men who looked as if gods or immortals.


    They were flying here and there.


    It was the Divine Plane of Water, RecquirCastle.


    The home to one of the strongest existences in the world, a Sovereign Paragon.


    Those who reached the absolute apex of cultivation and are invincible to all who stepped into the Divine Realm and are matched only by those who reached the same realm.


    Inside the main castle, there were two figures sitting inside a large hallway.


    One figure had long hair, a youthful face akin to a goddess and emitted an aura that gave you a feeling of harmony. A feeling as if there was flowing water.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    The other figure had fiery short red hair and a handsome face akin to a valient war god. He gave off a feeling of intimidation as if a returning general had arrived.


    "So, Serra, you intend to return home?"


    The fiery man spoke with a rough voice.


    "Yes, Brother Kruez, it''s been countless years since I left. I''d like to see how my home has become."


    The other spoke with a voice as pleasant as a melody.


    "Heh, home huh..."


    Kruez muttered as if reminiscing.


    "It''s truly been a while. Eh, but no one''s left there for me to see. My parents and friends bit the dust a long time ago."


    "Indeed, but still, I''d like to see my home. I''m eager to see how my sect in my home is."


    "Sect? Ah, the Flowing Spring Sect..."


    The Flowing Spring Sect exists in the Divine Plane of Water as well. In the other Higher Planes, branches of the sect exists as well as in other minor planes. It''s a massive sect with millions of powerful cultivators gathered together. Serra, the patriarch is a kind man and often pointed out guidance towards his disciples. This guidance from someone who stood at the summit was something that aided many in gaining breakthroughs becoming stronger. Furthermore, Serra is a Sovereign Paragon. No one with a sane mind would ever dare annoy a Sovereign Paragon. Besides, the sect is by no means evil.


    "Well then... I''ll go now. I''ve already informed my disciples."


    "I see... Take care then. I might go and see you later."


    With a blue flash, Serra left.


    "Home huh...Should I go too?"


    With that, Kruez left as well.

 Chapter 2: Descent

    Within chaotic space.


    There were numerous tears in space and violent waves of power.


    It was as if it was a sea.


    Within this sea, anything and all would be destroyed.


    A blue light flashed and a lone figure appeared within the sea.


    Numerous waves flowed towards the figure.


    The figure waved his hand and a blue sphere surrounded him.


    The waves couldn''t reach him at all.


    "How troubling... I can''t see well my world like this... Hm, for now, I''ll calm the waves down."


    The figure spoke and waved his hand.


    And just like that, the waves calmed down.


    The figure looked around.


    "Oh, there it is. So this is where my home is...Sierra... My home... wait for me..."


    Serra, let out a nostalgic voice filled with longing.


    Smiling lightly, he disappeared with a flash.


    With no one calming the waves down, the waves became turbulent and chaotic once more.


    <hr>


    In Balt Forest.


    Balt Forest was known as a dangerous place filled with terrifying magical and demonic beasts rank 8 and above. There was a rumor that a terrifying rank 10 plant-type demonic beast was ruling the forest.


    In the very center of this forest, there was a beautiful large flower in the center of a field of flowers.


    This large flower was devilishly beautiful was colored red akin to blood.


    Then, this flower bloomed.


    Within the flower, was a beautiful young girl.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Wearing a crown of flowers, she had green eyes that shown like emeralds, long light green hair flowing behind her haid. Her lips were scarlet. And she had snow white skin.


    Gazing upon the field of flowers, the girl spoke.


    "I''m hungry... Should I go eat some magical beasts or humans later?"


    She spoke in a melodic voice.


    "I guess I''ll go... Hm?"


    Noticing something strange.


    There was a blue light shining in front of her.


    Within the light, a figure dressed in azure robes appeared.


    A beautiful figure indeed.


    "A human...? To appear in my territory... how convenient. You''ll serve as my meal."


    Smiling in a devilish manner, the girl grinned as if her prey appeared before her.


    The flower rose up and large vines began to appear beneath the flower.


    The figure with light blue eyes looked at sight and said.


    "Hmm...Where am I? I''m not too sure. It''ll be boring to use my sense to know this world. Hey little girl, tell me, where am I?"


    The girl laughed.


    "Why do you need to know? You''re going to die here."


    The figure scratched his head and smiled wryly.


    "Sigh... I just got here and a girl is threatening me..."


    The figure, Serra, then released his aura.


    Immediately, the girl stiffened.


    A terrifying aura spread manifested in the boy.


    This terrying aura was pressing down on her.


    The flower began to kneel and the girl stopped smiling.


    Before her, she felt an aura as vast as the sea and as immovable as a mountain pressing down on her.


    "Hmm...? You could slightly resist my aura? I just released a little but you could resist it? Interesting, you must be at least a rank demonic beast then."


    A stronger aura was released.


    The girl shivered and released her aura to resist his.


    "Oh dear... I suppose I''ll just beat you a beat then ask questions later."


    Serra laughed.


    "What... WHAT ARE YOU!?"


    The girl shouted while shivering in fear.


    She glared at the boy before her.


    "This should teach you a lesson to pick your fights. Little girl."


    With that, he flicked his finger.


    A terrifying force then headed towards the girl and knocked her backwards.


    "UGH!"


    She smashed into a tree and spat out blood.


    "What power..."


    She shivered in fear.


    "Who are you!?"


    She shouted towards the boy.


    "Is that what passes as manners in the world of Sierra today? Asking for others name before giving out your own?"


    Serra sighed.


    "My name is Serra Recquir. You are?"


    He then asked.


    "I''m Maya."


    The girl then introduced herself.


    Extremely wary of the foe before her.


    Faced with a strong opponent before her, she was very cautious.


    "What do you want!? Why did you come to my territory!?"


    "I didn''t come here willingly. This is just where I landed."


    Serra nonchalantly spoke.


    "What!?"


    "Anyways... I need a guide... I suppose I''ll just tame you and make you my servant then."


    "What did you just say!?"


    The girl roared in anger.


    A human dared to say he''d tame her.


    Even a Monarch would not dare such a thing.


    "Don''t be too arrogant human! You might have taken me by surprise but that won''t work against me again!"


    Maya roared.


    "I am Maya, a Queen Rafflesia and lord of the Balt Forest! What right does an arrogant human have to say such things to me!?"


    Massive vines and flowers began to bloom around her.


    "Face my wrath, arrogant fool!"


    Those massive vines then attacked Serra.


    "Arrogant fool? That applies to you, not me. Who do you think you are? A mere lord of the forest has no right or power to defy me?"


    Serra let out an arrogant voice filled with certainty.


    "Hmph, I suppose I''ll spent some effort in taming you then."


    With that, he raised his hand.

 Chapter 3: The World of Sierra

    Before Serra, there were hundreds, thousands of vines that lashed out as whips surging towards him from all directions.


    Yet before them, he remained composed.


    As if, he''s just taking a small exercise after a meal.


    He emitted an aura as unmoveable as the mountain, as vast as the sky as unfathomable as the seas.


    "It doesn''t matter how many of these there are."


    He spoke calmly.


    "Speak as arrogantly as you can human. You''re going to die either ways."


    The vines were nearing him.


    These vines would definitely tear him to shreds. It doesn''t matter what his cultivation is. Even an Emperor would die with this attack.


    Maya sneered.


    But, there was a faint feeling of fear within her.


    What''s with this feeling...? Am I afraid...? Do I feel that it won''t reach?


    Furious, she shook off those thoughts.


    "To be able to unleash power to this degree, you must indeed be a Rank 10 Demonic Beast. Given your appearance, you must be a Queen Rafflesia. One that''s lived for over ten thousand years..."


    Serra gave a calm assessment of her.


    "But no matter, all things shall freeze before me."


    With but a thought, a massive torrent of power surged forward.


    With that power, he gave the surging vines a gentle touch.


    The vines stopped.


    "What!?"


    Maya exclaimed.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    Slowly, that vine began to turn white.


    "Its... Freezing...?"


    Indeed, that vine froze.


    The ice spread to the surroundings immediately and froze all the vines within moments.


    Maya widened her eyes and opened her tiny mouth in shock.


    "Shatter."


    With that one word, as if heeding that one command, the thousands of vines frozen shattered.


    Maya fell to her knees.


    She was frozen in fear and was trembling.


    "Now then... Will you follow me? Or will you shatter like glass like the vines?"


    Servitude or death.


    That was what was implied.


    After thinking for a moment, Maya knelt before him.


    "I will serve you."


    As of this moment, the Queen of Balt Forest is no more.


    "A wise choice."


    Serra smiled amiably.


    "Now then... Tell me about the world of Sierra."


    <hr>


    The world of Sierra.


    In the past, there were seven continents. Astlan, Keifer, Iroro, Black Death, Purgis, Meis and Zordia.


    It was the golden age of cultivation where numerous powers contested for the world.


    It was a terrifying battle where the strong cried tears of joy and the weak could only weep as they were born in the wrong era.


    It was a savage era. Filled with numerous mighty cultivators as numerous and as common as the clouds.


    In that savage era, the continents of Keifer, Meis and Iroro were destroyed.


    Astlan, Black Death, Purgis, Meis. The continents that survived weren''t left untouched and had lands destroyed in the conflict.


    In the end, no one won the battle for supremacy as all the powerful cultivators perished in battle against one another.


    A dark age followed for thousands of years until finally, an old sect grew to to power and seized the world.


    That sect grew to an empire and under it''s rule, the world prospered.


    That empire was known as the Recquir Empire.


    And the sect was known Flowing Spring Sect.


    The empire flourished after thousands of years but gradually weakened due to various reasons.


    It still exists today in the Astlan continent.


    Currently, there is a war going on in the world.


    The demonic beasts that possessed intelligence, hoped to conquer the world.


    To counter this, the humans all formed an alliance and are still struggling against them to this day.


    Althought conflicts exists here and there, it''s still relatively peaceful with a good balance.


    <hr>


    "I see... So it still exists."


    Serra sighed.


    He felt happy that his home, his sect still existed.


    But he was saddened that his continent, Meis, was destroyed.


    "Maya, where are we right now then?"


    "We are at the Balt Forest, located in the Black Death continent, master."


    Although Maya acted rude and arrogant before, she was now meek and quiet right now.


    She wouldn''t dare act disrespectful towards her master now.


    "Hmm... I believe I''ll pay my home a visit first then."


    With a wave of his hand, a blue aura manifested around Maya and Serra.


    "For now, I think I''ll pay the rulers of the Black Death continent a small visit."


    I''m curious on how powerful the strongest beings are in the world today. While I''m at it, I might as well take a few more servants since it would be inconvenient without some.


    With this line of thought, Serra left for the capital of the Black Death continent.

 Chapter 4: Rulers of the Black Death continent

    From far up above in the vast blue sky.


    There was a smiling young man and a little girl wearing clothing made out of plants trapped in a sphere of blue light.


    She looked towards the young man.


    "Maya, is that the capital of the demonic beasts?"


    Serra asked her.


    "Yes, my master. That is Grouvin, the city where Demon Lord Arsin lives."


    "Hoh... I should pay him a visit then. Time to go down a bit."


    Serra and the blue sphere descended down.


    They landed to a deserted forest area.


    "Maya, stay here. Wait for me to come back."


    With that Serra disappeared.


    <hr>


    Within the Grouvin Castle.


    In the Throne Room, there was a devilishly handsome young man with white hair and pale skin.


    He had demonic red eyes.


    He was Demon Lord Arsin. A Rank 15 Demonic Beast.


    He was in his Throne Room. It was a luxurious room with dark red decorations.


    A terrifying demonic beast who gained intelligence and established an army of his own in the world and desired the world.


    There were numerous powerful creatures located near his throne. All of them Demonic Beasts.


    "How goes the war?"


    A valient looking war general spoke.


    "My lord, we are currently fighting against the humans in the Zordia continent. Grekko is leading our troops there."


    He spoke in a fiery voice.


    "As for the Astlancontinent?"


    "My lord, we''ve gathered some success and captured their twin princesses. Eisel and Meileen Recquir. They are at our prison right now."


    "Good."


    Demon Lord Arsin smiled.


    "We''ll force the Recquir Empire to hand over the Leviathan Frostblade."Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    The creatures there began to snicker and laugh.


    "Oh dear...You actually captured two of my own? And you''re even intending on stealing my Leviathan Frostblade? I suppose I should stop this then."


    A calm young voice broke the laughter of the creatures.


    "Whose there!?"


    The fiery red man roared.


    The other creatures began to snarl and emit their auras as they looked around.


    "Hmm...Who are you, little boy?"


    The Demon Lord stared at the boy in front of him.


    He had light blue hair and was a young man.


    "Me? I''m from the Recquir Empire. I heard something interesting here so I decided to stop you."


    He casually replied.


    "Insolent fool!"


    The red man roared and charged out.


    The other creatures charged out as well.


    "Too hasty."


    Serra spoke then disappeared just as the creatures were about to reach him.


    *Crashed*


    "Ugh!"


    "Hmm... You have some ability."


    The Demon Lord spoke.


    "My lord, no need for you to act! We''re enough to deal with this bastard!"


    The red man roared.


    He charged out again.


    He raised his fist and his fist began to glow fiery red.


    Serra smiled.


    Just as he was about to reach him, Serra stopped him with a finger.


    Immediately, the true energy within that fist faded away.


    "Too weak."


    Serra spoke.


    With a thought, he launched the man back and he flew and crashed through a wall.


    "Is that all you have?"


    Serra took a closer look at the man.


    "A Pyre Drake... And Rank 12 too? Interesting. You must''ve taken at least seven thousand years to reach this far. I suppose the level of power in this world hasn''t declined that much."


    Serra laughed.


    "What did you say!? How could you know about me!?"


    The red man roared.


    The Demon Lord gazed at Serra and spoke.


    "Enough Luik. Leave him to me."


    "But my lord!"


    The red man began to protest.


    "Enough! You can''t defeat him."


    With that, Luik stopped but glared at Serra.


    "Who are you human?"


    "Me? My name is Serra Recquir."


    Serra introduced himself without much thought.


    "Serra Recquir... Where have I heard that name before..."


    The Demon Lord pondered.


    Immediately, the door opened and a beautifulwoman with nine tails ran out.


    "Sirene? Why did you come here?"


    The Demon Lord spoke.


    But the woman did not answer and turned to stare at the young man.


    "It can''t be... I thought that this aura was familiar but I didn''t think I''d see you again."


    She spoke with tears coming through her eyes.


    "You know him?"


    The Demon Lord spoke.


    His attendants looked incrediously towards her.


    "Hmm... You are... Aren''t you that little fox from before?"


    Serra looked at her with some surprise as well as delight.


    But his remark drew some shock from the Demon Lord as well as his attendants.


    Little fox? He dared to address the left arm of the Demon Lord, Lady Sirene, who commanded the 2nd Legion of the Demon Lord as "little fox"!?


    What was his relationship with her!?


    "Master! I''ve missed you so much for thousands of years!"


    She immediately leapt and hugged Serra.


    She eagerly rubbed her face on him.


    The attendants were shocked once again.


    "Sirene, can you introduce who he is?"


    The Demon Lord spoke quite surprised that one of his trusted generals would do such a thing.


    "Yes... This is Serra, founder of the Recquir Empire and the one who conquered this world."


    With that introduction, the entire room was shocked and stunned.


    The legendary founder who reigned as the ruler of the world thousands of years before!?


    "That''s impossible! How could you be alive? Serra Recquir perished thousands of years ago!"


    "Ah, that''s wrong. I never died."


    Serra wryly explained.


    "I merely left this world and ascended to the Higher Planes."


    "What!? Higher Planes!?"


    They were shocked.


    They were shocked that the legendary being who reigned supreme in the world was still alive and well.


    "That''s correct. After you pass the realm of Emperors, you can sense the worlds laws. If you can sense and master a Law, you can ascend to the Higher Planes on your own."


    Serra spoke casually but the listeners were stunned and shocked. There was a realm above the Emperor realm?

 Chapter 5: Whats Beyond the Realm of Emperors

    Serra spoke wryly with Sirene still clinging on him.


    Ignoring that, Serra began explaining everything.


    "When starting out cultivation, humans first start forming their martial cores, becoming Martial Apprentices. After that, Martial Seniors, then Martial Experts. After this, they reach the Nascent Realm. They pass the elementary, intermediate then advance stages before advancing towards Profound Realm. Following the same process, Warrior Realm, Sage Realm, White Sage, Black Sage, Gray Sage, Knight Realm, King Realm, Lord Realm, Monarch Realm and finally Emperor Realm."


    Serra casually explained the basics that all these experts knew.


    They were confused why he would explain something basic but they didn''t interrupt him.


    After all, even Demon Lord Arsin was listening intently.


    "The method of advancing is simply gaining true energy and processing it and making it your own strenght. However, that won''t do at all in the Emperor Realm. In order to transcend the Emperor Realm, you need to sense the laws. After reaching the realm of Emperors, you can sense laws now."


    "Laws? What are they?"


    Demon Lord Arsin asked.


    "Laws are the very powers that keep the world together. Wind, Fire, Earth, Water and even Death and Life. Perhaps you know of elements? When forming a core, you choose an element to form your core. That decides what type of enery you can absorb and decides which path you can take. In my case, my core was Water. Thus, I sensed the Law of Water to ascend to the Higher Planes."


    "Water... Wasn''t the area that became the battlefield of the peak experts then the sea?"


    Sirene muttered.


    "Yes. The final battlefield that decided everything was the sea. Back then, there were 13 continents, after the major battles, only several were left. We decided that we could not continue like this and settled the battle in a place devoid of land. And yet... After that battle, I did not expect that more large-scale battles would eventually ruin a few more continents..."A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Serra spoke in sorrow.


    The other experts experienced quite a shock.


    "Wait, Sirene, you did not know?"


    "Yes... Back then, I was too weak and had to stay behind. I had no way of knowing the outside world..."


    Sirene spoke.


    "Still, sensing the world''s laws is still a difficult endeavor. Sensing the law and comprehending it allowed me to gain a significant boost in power and allowed me to clinch victory in that dire moment. Afterwards, I began building my empire and consolidating my power. I eventually comprehended enough power and was finally able to ascend. I made sure to leave records of how I ascended. What happened to those records?"


    "Records? You left records?"


    This gave everyone present a surprise.


    Records of how the Supreme Expert ascended were left behind?


    At this moment, all experts present were thinking of one thing.


    Whose the damm fool who destroyed those records...!?


    If the numerous supreme experts who reached the pinnacle of the Emperor Realm heard this, they would be cursing that fool as well.


    "...Well, I suppose that can''t be helped..."


    Serra spoke wryly.


    "That aside, I''ll be taking my kin and putting an end to this war. What experts truly desire is reaching the world beyond this. The realm beyond the Emperor Realm."


    All experts listened.


    Indeed, although they did value their kin and did wish to claim the world, what they truly desire is gaining power. Now that they know of a world beyond this one, they wish to see that vast new world. The realm beyond that of Emperors.


    "This world, the world of Sierra is merely a minor world. There are countless minor worlds out there. The Higher Planes consist of several worlds. Each world far vaster than numerous minor world combined with numerous treasures each more valuable than a single minor world. Each Higher Plane is filled to the brim with numerous experts beyond the realm of Emperors."


    This shocked all the experts present.


    A world filled to the brim with experts beyond the Emperor Realm!?


    No matter the race, it''s extremely difficult to reach the Emperor Realm. A lifetime even.


    And yet, a world filled to the brim with such experts?


    "What? Don''t be so surprised. After reaching the realm above the Emperor Realm, you''ll find that you now posses eternal youth. You will never age or gain sickness anymore. Given the number of countless worlds, they''ve given birth to a vast number of supreme experts."


    Serra laughed lightly.


    "Now then, I suppose I''ll state some demands here. I didn''t come here for a stroll you know?"


    The faces of all the experts present changed.

 Chapter 6: Serras Demands and Conditions

    "For my demands, I''ll be taking back my kin, put an end to this war and Sirene will be coming with me. Rest assured, I won''t be taking all these things for free."


    Serra made some difficult demands.


    The war between humans and demonic beasts was necessary for both sides.


    Taking the two princesses of the Recquir Empire was extremely difficult and Sirene was the left hand of the Demon Lord...


    But, the other side was the Supreme Expert of the past, Serra Recquir who possess the power to annihilate the entire Demon King''s Army with but a finger.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    They could not resist.


    "To compensate for your lost, I''ll raise back all the continents destroyed and give you four continents to live in as your territory. I''ll teach you how to sense the laws of this world and I''ll give you a weapon I personally forged."


    The Demon Lord''s eyes perked up.


    With these conditions, the gains exceed the losses by a large margin. It''s would be foolish to refuse.


    "I accept your terms."


    The Demon Lord spoke.


    "My lord!"


    The red man raised his voice in alarm.


    "Luik and everyone else, recall all our armies invading the humans immediately. Sirene, I''ll release you of your services now. I''m grateful for all your help up until now."


    """Yes your majesty!!!"""


    All his retainers left in a hurry.


    "Well then... Sirene, take those two outside the capital, I''ll be waiting for you there. I''ll speak to the humans and deal with those that intend to continue the war."


    With a flash, Serra left.

 Chapter 7: Twin Princesses of the Recquir Empire

    "Well then... That''s over with for the trip towards the Capital of Demonic Beasts..."


    Serra reappeared in a forest near the place where he left Maya.


    "For the Demon King... I suppose I''ll make a sword."


    Serra said to himself while thinking.


    He raised his hand. Near his hand, a blue glow shined brightly for a few moments.


    The light faded revealing an ornamental blue sword.


    This blue sword was beautiful to behold.


    A flower was the style of it''s hilt. It''s blade shone a blue luster.


    Yet, one could feel the great depth of power within it.


    This sword was one for killing.


    A sword that severes ones life without life.


    "This should do."


    Serra waved his hand and contained the sword in his spacial ring.


    "Time to meet Maya... Speaking of which, I did say I''d take a servant... I suppose Sirene should suffice for that."


    Serra took a step.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    In an instant, he reached Maya.


    Maya was playing with flowers at the moment.


    "Hello."


    "Hya!"


    Maya let out a high-pitched scream and dropped the flowers she was holding.


    "M-Master! Don''t startle me like that!"


    Maya said blushing furiously.


    "Ignore the trivial stuff."


    Serra spoke indifferently.


    But there was amusement in his eyes.


    Maya glared at him.


    He may be stronger than her, but as a girl, she can''t stand this embarassement.


    "Someone will reach here soon. Someone who knew me from long ago. Aside from her, there are two others. After they arrive, we''ll leave."


    "?"


    Serra then walked slowly towards a tree and slept there.


    Maya glared at him while still blushing but took this opportunity to regain her composure.


    After some time, a woman with nine-tails and two girls arrived.


    Maya was stunned when they appeared.


    This woman was Sirene! The left-hand of the Demon King Arsin and a Rank 14 Demonic Beast far stronger than her! As for the two girls, although they wore luxurious clothing, she ignored them. They were just brats.


    Just a bunch of ants she could easily crush.


    "Oh, you''re already here."


    Serra woke up from his nap and drowsily shook himself.


    The two girls looked wearily at him and the girl near him.


    They were the twin princesses of the Recquir Empire, Eisel and Meileen Recquir. They both had light blue hair and sapphire eyes. They had the same features.


    They were very suspicious and puzzled on why they were taken here.


    They were recently taken prisoner and were staying in their rooms when suddenly, one of the Demon King''s generals appeared and took them both here.


    "Ah, I''m Serra Recquir. I''m here to take you two back home."


    They were startled. Why would someone call himself the same name as their legendary ancestor?


    "What? Who are you esteemed senior?"


    Eisel spoke.


    "I just spoke... I''m Serra Recquir. Founder of the Recquir Empire and your ancestor."


    Serra kindly repeated himself.


    They didn''t believe him.


    "He''s speaking the truth... Also, he just forged a truce between humans and demonic beasts just now."


    ""What!?""


    A truce?


    The war between the two races were just starting.


    How could there a truce now?

 Chapter 8: Towards the Empire

    "Well then, regardless of how confused you two are, we''re returning to the Imperial Capital."


    The two were very confused.


    Returning?


    How?


    A blue sphere glowed covering all five of them.


    "Let''s go."


    The sphere soared above rapidly.


    Despite it''s speed, the five felt comfortable.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    They quickly headed towards the Empire.


    ""What''s this!? How are we flying!?""


    The two were shouting.


    "Don''t worry. We''re safe."


    Immediately, the two felt a calming aura soothe them.


    Although slightly fearful, they were slowly feeling calmer.


    "I truly am Serra Recquir. You don''t need to doubt this whatsoever."


    Serra assuaded the two.


    "At the very least, I''m not hostile to the Recquir Clan."


    "I see... Then, esteemed ancestor, why would you return only now...?"


    They both believed him at the moment.


    At the very least, someone with such power would not make such a boring lie.


    Someone who had enough power to force a truce between humans and demonic beasts... only their ancestor could do that.


    "I had many tasks in the Higher Planes. I only had now to return."


    Serra spoke nonchalantly.


    "Oh, we''re here."


    Before explaining further, they reached the Capital already.

 Chapter 9: The Capital

    The Capital of the Recquir Empire featured many elegantly designed buildings. Magical beasts and the like were used as carriages and many of the people walking by looked proud.


    As citizens of the Recquir Empire, they were proud to be able to walk within the streets of the capital.


    Majority of the living beings here were cultivators.


    Evidently, there''s a rule enforcing that ordinary people were not allowed to come here.


    Therefore, the Capital became a place where those who had the right to stay were proud and lofty individuals.


    And Serra can see that there are plenty of aristocrats with their servants around.


    Aristocrats in the Recquir Empire possessed power, wealth and excellent martial arts.


    They were proud people.


    Serra can easily tell them apart from their aura''s, their rich essense as well as the pride and bearing they give off.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "Hmph, too noisy."


    Maya muttered to his side.


    Theywere currently above the capital.


    The blue sphere had a stealth ability hiding it from within view of the commoners and the usage of profound energy.


    The stealth ability of a Sovereign Paragon, how could mere mortals of a lesser plane possibly hope to detect it?


    "Sigh...Those arrogant fools... It''s precisely because of them that I left the Recquir Empire..."


    Sirene muttered to his side as she gazed at the nobility with disdain.


    Now that Serra recalled, Sirene had grievances with nobility and still bears a grudge towards them to this day despite the one''s she hated already dead.


    Women are scary...They really know how to hold a grudge.


    Eisel and Meileen were gazing at the capital filled with happiness.


    They were happy to return home safe and sound.


    "Well then, let''s go to the castle first. It''s been a while since I''ve been there. I wonder what changed?"


    Serra spoke curiously.


    Maya looked bored.


    Sirene looked at the nobility down bellow with disdain still.


    The blue sphere moved towards the castle garden.


    They descended towards the flowers.


    "Hmm... Now then, for a quick check."


    Serra spoke and spread his divine sense towards the entire city.


    With his powers, he can easily detect those who have the same bloodline as his.


    He detected within the throne room a tired man bearing regal features.


    "Oh, found him."


    The man bore similar features to Eisel and Meileen.


    A blue flash covered their bodies and they disappeared.

 Interlude: A Fathers Worry

    Within the Throne Room of the Recquir Castle.


    Lucas Recquir was sitting in his throne.


    His face was pale.


    "Eisel...Meileen... Forgive your foolish father. But... I must do what I can for the clan."


    He spoke with sorrow...


    He received grave news that the Demonic Beasts had taken his daughters as hostages.


    Enraged, he sent out his troops to intercept them but they failed.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    Disappointed, he sent his retainers away so he can be alone.


    "However... I won''t give up. There''s still hope to rescue them without losing our heirloom...."


    He spoke decisively.


    As a father, all he wants is the safety of his children.


    But as a king, he can''t allow his feelings to get in his judgement.


    The lives of hundreds and thousands rests in his shoulders.


    But even so...


    "If only... If only our ancestor was here... We wouldn''t be in such dire traits..."


    He looked back at the ancient records of his clan.


    On the secret library only previous clan leaders, previous emperors could access, there was a message from their ancestor.


    That he still lived, and that he would one day return.


    But countless years passed since then.


    Many emperors hoped for his return, but he never came back.


    Even so, he would still hope.


    Hope that their ancestor would return to lead them to glory.


    That he would save his daughters.


    "Alas... How could this come to pass..."


    His voice echoed out in the hollow throne.

 Chapter 10: Reunion

    "Maya, Sirene we''re going to meet up with the current emperor. Will you two follow me or will you wait for me here?"


    Serra questioned his two attendants.


    "I''ll stay here. Humans bore me."


    Maya said clearly uninterested with human affairs.


    As a Demonic Beast who didn''t participate in the war against humans, she was never interested in humans to begin with. Maya was a plant-type demonic beast who preferred to rule her territoy in peace. Thus, though she never served the Demon King, she still treated them in a friendly manner thus the Demon King and his armies left her alone.


    "I''ll follow you master."


    Sirene spoke respectfully.


    Although Sirene despised humans, nobility the ones she hated the most, she loved and adored her master who took care of her in the past.


    "There might be a bit of trouble if Sirene comes along but I can deal with it easily enough. Eisel, Meileen, you two lead the way."


    The two nodded.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ""Yes Ancestor.""


    The two princesses were convinced that he was their ancestor now. He possessed enough power to rule the world with ease.


    Even if he was lying about being their ancestor, what of it?


    Rather, it was more important which side this supreme expert was on.


    Supreme Experts all have a sense of pride and noble bearing.


    They walked a harsh path and were lofty individuals who considered such deeds beneath them.


    The two princesses headed towards the castle.


    <hr>


    "Ah... The flowers are truly beautiful today."


    A gardener spoke while humming a tune.


    She gazed towards the field of blue flowers with satisfaction.


    "Hm?"


    She caught sight of two people running in that field of flowers.


    "Those two are...? Princess Eisel and Princess Meileen!?"


    She was shocked.


    She received news that the two were captured.


    She was worried sick and decided to dedicate herself to work while praying that they would one day return.


    However, how could they return this fast!?


    Heavens, was she having a daydream?


    "Lein? It is you!"


    Princess Eisel spoke joyfully and hugged her.


    That brought her back to her senses.


    "Pr-Princess! You''re back safe and sound!"


    From behind them, she saw a youth and a mature woman walking towards them.


    "And they are...?"


    "Ah...They''re the ones who rescued us."


    "What...? I see. Then thank you so much for rescuing our beloved princesses."


    She bowed towards them.


    "We''ll head towards Royal Father now. Please carry on with your duties."


    They bowed and left.


    Lein was smiled with joy and began watering the plants again.


    "What beautiful flowers... As expected of the gardener of the Imperial Castle."


    However, they looked much more beautiful than before and it wasn''t due to the weather or the flowers themselves.

 Not a chapter, but something to fulfill the quota.

    My Haunted Elementary School Year


    In the six years of middle school I spent, my last year was the most memorable and not for good memories and stuff like that. You see, I was sixth year student. I was at the highest floor, 5th or 6th floor of the second building. For the first months, it was a normal regular school life but after a certain incident, things turned out of control.


    There was a bathroom for the main building and the secondary building. I''ve always used the secondary building since it was close. I''ve only visited that place when we were near graduation though. But the incident that happened there was the start of everything... all the bizarre horrors that occured at school that put the whole place in chaos! I had several friends who decided to ,for some stupid unknown reason, record their trip to the main building bathroom. But there was a catch. In that video, they caught an evil spirit. Spirits can''t be classified as evil just because their dead, but believe me when I say that after all the chaos and trouble that spirit put us through, calling it an evil spirit is already generous enough.


    That spirit began possessing a girl in our class.


    That girl was weak spiritually and was often possessed.


    I thought it was abnormal but I got used to it after being possessed became a regular occurence. It often happened thrice a week. There was a time I thought it happened everyday. But things took a drastic turn that day... That day, it wasn''t only her that was possessed.


    The entire building had evil spirits rampaging everywhere! It was chaos I tell you! People were getting possessed left and right. Students were struggling to tie up possessed classmates while teachers were trying to calm the chaotic situation. In our panic, we left our stuff at our classrooms and left. That scene of chaos though... I doubt I''d ever forget it in my fear and panic...


    The sight of papers and stuff flying all over... The demonic faces of possessed students... The desperate students trying to tie down the struggling possessed students... The teachers who were clearly having an extremely difficult time trying to restore order... And all the people running and screams of fear...


    I only studied at that school cause it was close... But if I knew of the stories regarding that school and it''s rumors... I doubt I''d study there.


    Rumors including that the school was formerly a hospital... Rumors that it used to be a graveyard...


    I''ve even heard of stories from my classmates.


    My classmate, a girl, said that she was alone there in highest floor and met a teacher. I don''t remember how that meeting turned out, however, that classmate of mine, when she asked about that teacher, she learned that the teacher she met, was already dead for many long years now...


    Once, my little brother who studied there had a boy scout field trip. And of all places, they held their camping at school and slept in the classrooms. And guess where? The second building of all places! I''ve heard some stuff about that place from my brother. Apparently, he didn''t get much sleep. And given what happened... I don''t blame him. He''s had a rough night. He reported seeing all sorts of spirits of deceased students and other spirits there... With his classmates... However, how could he say that when he was supposed to be sleeping and camping there...? That means he didn''t get any sleep at all... I don''t know what the heck is wrong with that teacher... Or my brother for that reason... Of all the places to decided to hold a camping event, why a haunted school? Are they used to it? And for my brother... I know grades are important but... If you get a choice of a warm bed and good food or a haunted cold school with spirits to accompany you... Why choose the haunted school of all places... I don''t care if I get good grades, I''m not camping in there with ghosts!Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Well, after all that chaos, stuff calmed down.


    But those damm ghosts played one last prank in my graduation picture.


    ...In my graduation picture, I was at the top left. There was something strange with how I looked. I was shining white. If my classmates didn''t know that I was a student there, they''d have thought I''m a ghost who made sure to make a final memory with them... But of all the people they could have pranked... Why me...?


    A peek into a world I wished I never knew


    Some time ago, I was running errands for my brother. It wasn''t anything big. I just had to help out with some lifting. But a certain crazy thief just made that ordinary day unforgettable.


    I was looking toward the area when I heard the people near me make some gasps. I looked at them and saw them staring at something in front of them.


    I was puzzled and looked there.


    What I saw gave me greatest shock of my entire life.


    I saw a woman with colored skin and black hair. Though I didn''t look closely, she was quite slender and a beauty maybe. But that''s not important. The thing is, she was completely naked in broad daylight. I was stunned.


    What on earth is this pervert doing here...?


    I entered the place where I was supposed to deal with the lifting and stayed there for a while.


    Afterwards, I heard that the woman entered the store adjacent to where I was, stole some clothes and left.


    No one bothered to stop her.


    ...In this world, apparently there are all sorts of crazy lunatics and thieves with unusual methods of thievery that are just plain ridiculous that actually worked.


    Why you should always trust instinct


    I''ve heard that instincts should be trusted.


    If you follow it, you can stop a tragedy from happening.


    And if you don''t, expect that tragedy to come straight at your face.


    As someone who experienced both, I can guarantee that truth.


    For the good part, I once purchased a video with... rather adult content. It had an anime cover to disguise it''s contents though. I left it in my bag along with the video player. I was just eating my lunch when a certain feeling nagged into me and I began to run. I headed straight to where my bag was and found my mother leading my little sister to watch that adult video on the video player from my bag.


    It was good of my instinct to warn me. Otherwise, there would be a horrific tragedy that would scar my life from henceforth.


    For the bad part, I was eating some snacks when I felt a feeling tugging towards my left cheek. I ignored it because I was lost in thought and eating a tasty snack. When it got a bit unbearable, I looked towards my left and found... My classmate kicking a soccer ball towards me. And it hit me. STRAIGHT. AT. MY. FACE. Of course, I got revenge and gave him a piece of my mind.


    Good friends


    If you''re friends with someone and you see something that might harm your friend, stop it. And if you see something that might benefit him, show it to him.


    Once, I found the book about martial arts that my friend lost. So I returned it to him.


    Another time, I discovered that he got tricked by some senior students that there was no classes on Monday and he believed it. To be honest, I thought it was true but I decided to come just in case. As expected, there was classes. So, at lunch time, I reported to the people in charge what happened and gave my friend a call. My friend was busy somewhere and I talked to his mother. My friend gave me his number and I was acquianted with his mother. I told her to give him a message for me. It goes like this, "Oi Joel, what the heck are you doing! There''s classes today! Why aren''t you at school!?". Later on, he did arrive looking very glum. I heard that the senior students received a lecture afterwards.


    Lastly, my friend caught the chickenpox and only I caught it before. So, during the duration of his sickness, I often visited him to cheer him up, pass notes so he won''t lag behind and other stuff. I kept him company. I was annoyed at how the others thought I was being romantic with him though... Come on... This is the noble friendship between men.


    A relation between friends is a beautiful thing.  As men, we helped each other, competed with one another and had the fun of our lives. We stood tall together side by side and gazed at the place we longed to be. A relation of true equals. And although I reported the stuff I did for him, he helped me out a plenty as well. If he wasn''t so important a friend to me, why else would I go to such lenghts to help him?

 Chapter 11: Ancestor of the Recquir Clan

    Serra followed Eisel and Meileen towards the throne room.


    For some reason, there weren''t that many guards present.


    It was because the King sent them out and he wanted to be alone for some time so he sent out all his guards and servants outside the castle.


    There was no fear of assassination for Lucas Recquir was a powerful expert of his own right.


    At present, Lucas detected a few people headed towards him.


    But upon detecting their aura''s, he was shocked and overjoyed and therefore did not attempt to stop them.


    Serra and the rest soon reached the throne room.


    Similar to the Demon King''s throne room, it was luxurious with blue crystals decorating the room.


    The Recquir clan was a powerful family who were practioners of ice and water.


    There were plenty of sculptures detailing powerful aquatic or icy demonic beasts made out of blue crystals.


    ""Royal Father!""


    The twins exclaimed at the same time.


    At the throne sat a regal middle-aged old man.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    He had graceful features and looked very suave and handsome.


    At present, he was overcome with joy at the sight of his daughters home.


    The two daughters hugged their father and were in tears.


    "I never thought I''d see you two again..."


    Immediately, an aura that radiated of sorrow that could cause men and women alike to weep shone through.


    If it weren''t for the power of the people near, they would have broken into tears as well.


    Interesting. It appears that they heeded my words to focus on cultivation.


    Serra thought to himself.


    He wasn''t disappointed towards his descendants.


    "Hm...? And who are these two? They seem familiar to me but who are they?"


    "Royal Father, he is our ancestral founder, Serra Recquir!"


    "What!?"


    Lucas exclaimed.


    Immediately, he took a close look at them.


    "You are...? Our ancestor?"


    Serra smiled at him.


    "Indeed I am. Lucas Recquir."


    "Wait. How could you possible be our ancestor? I do know that he never died and that he left for the higher planes, but it''s impossible for him to return just now..."


    How could the king believe such a coincidence?


    His daughters were kidnapped yesterday and they return now rescued by their ancient ancestor who happened to return today?


    That''s simply a dream!


    "Well then... Let me show you a bit of my power."


    Serra smiled lightly then released his aura for an instant towards Lucas alone.


    The others did not feel anything.


    In that instant, Lucas felt as though he was stranded within a bottomless ocean.


    Utterly unfathomable and he was staring right at a massive beast that he could not hope to match.


    "See?"


    Serra smiled again.


    Lucas returned to his senses.


    It was as if the feeling of fear and despair he felt vanished in an instant and he was back in his throne.


    But that power... He was certain that he had no hopes of victory against this youth.


    And he was also certain that he was a powerful practicioner of water and ice arts.


    Even more so then their ancient elders guarding the ancestral shrine.


    Lucas knelt before him.


    "Lucas, 1041st king of the Recquir Empire greets the ancestral founder."

 Chapter 12: A new era

    As Lucas knelt before him, Serra smiled.


    "Oh, I thought I''d have to do more to convince you of who I am."


    "There''s no need. In the ancestral shrine, we have a sculpture and painting of how you look and it''s been carefully preserved all this time. Therefore, when I saw you appearance, I was certain that it may indeed be the ancestral founder. Furthermore, your power that is without a doubt beyond that of any supreme expert confirms it."


    In the world of cultivation, might makes right.


    If Serra didn''t reveal his power beforehand and simply told him so, Lucas might not have believed it.


    But since he revealed his power, Lucas was convinced.


    "Before we speak, Eisel, Meileen, you two would take care to leave this place and rest. We have some important matters to discuss."


    Serra looked at the two.


    "My dear daughters... Please leave for a moment. I will speak towards you two later."Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    ""Yes Royal Father.""


    They both bowed and left promptly.


    "They''re quite disciplined. They''re good children."


    Serra praised them both.


    "Thank you for your praise, ancestral founder."


    Lucas was beaming.


    He was proud to have his daughters praised by the founder.


    "First, I will raise the continents ruined in the Great War and bring them back. That should solve the issues with population."


    Lucas was shocked.


    Raise continents?


    Given the few remaining continents, raising a few will undoubtedl solve their issues with population growth.


    In fact, it may even stop the war!


    Both sides know that this war is a necessity and they''re both aiming to win.


    "Also, I''ve already discussed things with the Demon King. He''s agreed to my offer and will accept peace."


    Lucas was shocked once more.


    He''s already spoken to the Demon King!?


    If so, then we may gain peace at last.


    "Within a few months, I''d like you to gather all the leaders of the human race here. Also, make sure to recall all supreme experts at the Emperor Realm, I''ll teach them myself."


    "Yes Founder!"


    Personal teaching from the Ancestral Founder, the supreme expert who ruled the world countless years ago?


    Anyone would go mad with excitement at such a prospect that would allow them to become supreme experts themselves.


    With the Ancestral Founder, the human race would be united.


    Furthermore, with peace with the Demonic Beasts guaranteed and the Ancestral Founder personally teaching their supreme experts, the Recquir Clan would soar in glory just like they did countless years ago when their founder led them to rule the world!


    This was the start of a new era! A glorious new era for the Recquir Empire!

 Chapter 13 Alliances Convention

    "Ancestor, for this matter, I must speak to the other leaders of the human race. They must know."


    Lucas spoke in a respectful tone towards Serra.


    "True. But before they do, I will completely raise the fallen continents."


    "Ancestor, how about raising the fallen continents before their eyes? It would prove your credibility and gain their assistance. Without proof, they won''t follow."


    Lucas hurriedly dissuaded Serra.


    "Yes. The others are full of pride and they have their own people to consider. However, it would be unlikely to raise a good enough reason to make the other leaders of the human race gather without doing so."


    "Then, I suggest raising up one continent first. That should suffice to gather all the leaders of the human race."


    "Mn. Indeed. The resurfacing of a new continent is enough reason for them to gather."


    Serra gave his approval.


    "Then, how about getting the Demon Lord to join the conference?"


    "Hm... Since we''re having an alliance, then it''s possible but at the current moment, the entire human race believes that we''re at war with the Demonic Beasts. The other leaders of the human race would raise their swords, not their wine, once they see the Demon King."


    "Yes. The Demon King is currently recalling his armies at present. His rapid withdrawal and the rise of a new continent should suffice for all the leaders of the human race to gather."


    The leaders of the human race are all elite individuals holding great power and ruling over their own territories with thousands of soldiers at their command.


    They''re each responsible for an area they guard and are focused on their duties.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    They do have meetings with other nations, but they usually send out their envoys. The main leaders are usually not in attendance.


    Unless a major event breaks out, forcing the conference of all the leaders of the human race, they would at most send out only envoys.


    But at this time, the withdrawal of the Demonic Beasts and the rise of a new continent is enough to force a meeting between all the leaders of the human race.


    <hr>


    Two days later, at the Sky Blaze Palace.


    "What was that? Disciple, repeat what you said!"


    A valient man with red robes and fiery red hair spoke in a loud manner towards a black robed youth bowing in front of him.


    "Yes master. My fellow disciples and I investigated the Demonic Beast camp within the area, but we found no demonic beast in sight. We found traces however that they left the area."


    The man furrowed his brows.


    "What''s going on... Why are the Demonic Beasts withdrawing...? Why would the Demon King recall them?"


    The man wondered to himself.


    But there was none to answer him.


    "Hmph. I don''t know what you''re planning, but there won''t be any glory or victory for you and your kind."


    The man said coldly.


    "Disciple! Call the Sky Knights, tell them to report to me at once!"


    "Yes master!"


    At once, the black-robed youth left in a flash.


    "Hmph, this sudden move might end up alerting the rest. There would probably be a Nation''s Conference soon. Better get ready otherwise those old bastards won''t shut up."


    The red man muttered to himself.


    <hr>


    At the Golden Eagle Hall.


    "Hmm... What could those vile creatures be plotting now?"


    "That is a puzzling thing indeed second brother."


    "This isn''t the time to be wondering what they''re doing, we should send out scouts towards the Black Death continent right now."


    Within the hall, there were three men wearing golden robes. All three of them had similar features and were graceful, handsome and elegant.


    "Whatever that vile king is plotting, it must not come to pass."


    "Indeed."


    "Shall we sent out the Golden Eagles?"


    The man at the middle started thinking.


    "Very well. Send them out."


    "Guards!"


    The man at the left cried out.


    Numerous soldiers wearing golden armor and showing powerful auras showed up in great numbers.


    "Call the leader of the Golden Eagles here. Immediately."


    """Yes, Hall Master!!!"""


    They shouted in unison before bowing and dispersing.


    "There might be a Nation''s Conference soon..."


    "Is that so?"


    "If so, then shall we make preparations?"


    "That''s indeed so, brothers. Let us make preparations for a conference."


    The man in the middle spoke confidently.


    <hr>


    All the leading forces commanding the human race were preparing for a Nation''s Conference. But even so, it would still take time. They didn''t know, however, that there would be a massive event that would hasten the Nation''s Conference soon.

 Chapter 14: Guidance

    Serra was currently pondering in his room.


    Lucas prepared a magnificent and luxurious room for him in a secluded part of the castle.


    There were also some guards and maids posted nearby to answer to his demands.


    "For the continent I''ll raise, it shall be the Meis continent. I suppose I should go raise it right now."


    If the various heads of the alliance heard those words, they might cough out blood.


    The withdrawal of the Demon King''s forces already caused them to worry, now the rise of a new continent?


    They might cough up blood for real this time.


    They would undoubtedly connect the withdrawal of the Demon King''s forces and the rise of a fallent continent together.


    As for what they imagine what will happen in the future...


    They might get so worried that they might not be able to sleep easily.


    "But before I go, perhaps I''ll check on my two descendants?"


    Serra smiled lightly before reaching out towards the bell in the desk near his chair.


    The two descendants he was referring to was undoubtedly Eisel and Meileen.


    *Ring*


    The bell let out a melody.


    *Creak*


    The door opened to reveal a young lady dressed in the clothes of a maid.


    The maid outfit fitted her black hair and eyes quite well.


    "You called for me, milord?"


    She asked in a respectful tone.


    I wonder who this youth is for the king to tell us to obey him unconditionally and treat his words as the words of the king himself.


    The maid wondered to herself.


    Still, it didn''t show in her face.


    On the other hand, Serra felt a bit troubled.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    So Lucas gave such orders? Well, it can''t be helped but still... I''m not really fond of this kind of treatment... Also, maids nowadays are quite professional. Her thoughts aren''t showing at her face at all... The maids back in the day weren''t this good at all... Her cultivation is quite impressive too.


    As a supreme expert, reading the thoughts of mortals is a simple matter.


    Although this maid was quite a skilled expert as well.


    Serra felt troubled at how his descendants worshipped him while impressed at how domestic workers improved their methods and standards.


    Of course, it didn''t show in his face at all.


    For a moment, the two who didn''t let their thoughts and emotions stared at one another.


    Serra with a gentle smile and the maid with an expressionless face.


    "Tell me where Princess Eisel and Meileen are."


    The maid bowed.


    "They are cultivating at the sacred grounds at present."


    "I see. Take me there."


    The maid furrowed her brow a bit.


    Cultivation at the sacred grounds usually shouldn''t be disturbed.


    She would caution him if it weren''t for the king''s orders.


    "Please follow me."


    She bowed and began to walk gracefully out of the room.


    "Oh yes, I forgot to ask something."


    The maid stopped walking and turned towards Serra.


    "What''s your name?"


    The maid was silent for a moment.


    "It''s Cordelia, milord."


    <hr>


    Inside the Sacred Grounds.


    The Sacred Grounds was large underground chamber.


    The elemental essence of water and ice here was very high.


    There were many experts of the Recquir Empire cultivating in silence.


    Within the center, the place with the highest quality of elemental essense, were two girls.


    Eisel and Meileen Recquir.


    "This is where they are, milord."


    The maid respectfully bowed towards Serra.


    "Good work."


    Serra gazed at the two training seriously.


    Eisel, the graceful and elegant princess was cultivating letting no expressions show on her face as she gathered elemental essence and refined it.


    Meileen, the mischievous princess was the same and was sitting beside her.


    Looking at them, they truly were twins.


    If they showed the same expression while cultivating, their aura''s match.


    Making it difficult to determine which princess is Eisel and which is Meileen.


    But for Serra, he can peer at their souls and determine their identities easily.


    It would be inappropriate for him to disturb them right now.


    So, Serra sent out mental messages towards their minds directly.


    Passing out information and words.


    Eisel, Meileen heed my words. Cultivation is like sailing the rough seas. Be steady and cultivate at a steady pace. Here are some techniques to absorb elemental essense much more smoothly. And some techniques I once practiced and developed in the past. Continue your cultivation.


    There was change in the expressions of both princesses.


    A large amount of information detailing high-level cultivation techniques and combat techniques flowed into their minds and they instantly memorized them.


    They simultaneously opened their eyes and gazed at the youth in front of them.


    Serra smiled lightly and signalled them to stay quiet.


    "Let''s go."


    Serra began to walk away.


    How strange. He''s not even going to say hello or cultivate? This is the Sacred Grounds! What a strange senior. He must be some supreme expert who hides his true appearance. That or some eccentric weirdo.


    As usual, the maid Cordelia didn''t show her feelings in her face but Serra clearly heard her thoughs.


    ...I''m not really fond of being called a weirdo but I suppose it looks that way to others doesn''t it...


    Serra was slightly depressed, but as expected, it didn''t show in his face.


    In a way, this was truly a weird pair.

 Chapter 15: Rise of the Meis Continent

    After Serra gave guidance towards the two princessess, he returned to him room.


    He sent out Cordelia and sat in a chair in his room.


    "Hmm... It should be time to go now."


    Serra looked up towards the sky.


    "It''s finally time to truly return to my home..."


    Serra called out in a nostalgic voice filled with longing.


    In his heart, returning to his world and to his descendants can''t truly be counted as returning home.


    As long as he hasn''t stepped on the land he was born in, he truly can''t say he returned home.


    He had that wish ever since he returned here.


    Of course, due to certain matters, he had to restrain himself, but  now, nothing can restrain him.


    Thus, it is finally time.


    He gazed upwards.


    In a moment, he disappeared without a sound in his room.


    <hr>


    Above a vast sea, Serra appeared.


    "Meis... My home... My clan... My sect... I''ve finally returned..."


    Serra gazed beneath the sea.


    His eyes became teary-eyed as he stared down below the land he was born.


    Seeing it buried beneath the oceans filled him with sorrow, but it will change soon.


    "Not soon, it will change now."


    Serra corrected his thoughts and released his aura.


    When he released his aura towards Maya, towards the Demon King, towards his descendants, he only released a small amount of power.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    But now, he truly released his full power.


    Instantly, all the experts in the world trembled.


    They felt a massive awe-inspiring power towering over the heavens cover their world.


    All the experts in the world trembled.


    <hr>


    Within the Demon King''s Castle.


    "This power is... Serra?"


    The Demon King in his throne spoke.


    This aura was truly familiar to him.


    Serra had released it towards him only a few weeks ago.


    But at that time, it was only a small fraction of his power.


    Yet, faced with that power, the Demon King could only tremble.


    But this power was far too vast...


    The Demon King felt that power at that time to be as vast as the sky, as unfathomable as the sea and as immovable as the mountains, but this level of power...


    That power at that time was only a drop of water in the ocean in comparison to this terrifying amount of power.


    "So this is the true power of that man... The true power of one who reached the absolute pinnacle of might."


    The Demon King let out a voice filled with awe and fear... and within it, a voice filled with envy.


    "One day... I will definitely gain this much power for myself... I will stand upon the same summit that man stands upon..."


    He let out a voice filled with determination and loftiness as well as arrogance and pride.


    "I will definitely reach it... No matter what..."


    The Demon King spoke as his held a devilish glint in them.


    To lead his race and gather a place to call their home was indeed a wish he held.


    But his true desire is to gain strenght and power that stood at the apex of cultivation.


    Faced with power of one who reached it, his heart began to burn with ambition.


    <hr>


    Serra felt his power expand.


    His controlled his power and forced it to gather towards him.


    He then spread it towards the Meis continent that slumbered beneath the seas.


    A blue aura covered Serra.


    Tremendous power filled him to the brim.


    When one gazed at him, they would feel as if a god descended upon the mortal world.


    A sovereign has descended.


    All living beings can only tremble before his glory.


    "Rise."


    With this one word, as if the world heeded it''s ruler''s wish, the Meis continent began to rise.


    The countless living sea creatures living within the fallen Meis continent began to hurriedly flee.


    They already felt the sovereign''s aura and were frozen in fear.


    Once they felt the land beneath them rise, they immediately began to flee in fear.


    Slowly, the land began to resurface within the sea.


    Within moment, the Meis continent truly resurfaced.


    However...


    As it was previously a part of the sea for thousands of years...


    The things left were ruined buildings, corpses of dead magical beasts and ancient humans as well as seaweed and all sorts of stuff.


    "Hmph."


    With but a thought, all of it were pushed aside towards the sea.


    That included the fish that were unable to escape the rising continent in time.


    However, with all of them gone, the Meis continent was barren.


    With the exception of the ruined buildings of ancient times that were left untouched.


    Serra disappeared once more.


    With him gone, the aura also started fading away.


    But how could such immense power disappear instantly like that?


    Some bits of power remained.


    But that power was so great that even Emperor level experts trembled.

 Chapter 16: My Town, My Sect, My Home

    Serra gazed at the barren continent, towards the ruins of his former home.


    Towards this, Serra felt nostalgic and sorrowful.


    With a thought, a blue sphere covered the entire land.


    Within this sphere, time itself seemed to reverse.


    The buildings seemed to get younger and it''s ruins were slowly being restored to their former glory.


    The blue sphere then faded revealing the town once more.


    Mighty walls impenetrable to any foe.


    A tall castle of stone.


    A town that seemed quite lively but without a single soul in sight.


    "One day, I''ll restore this city to it''s former shape... But before that..."


    Serra began to fall.


    He descended slowly upon the land almost like an immortal arriving from heaven.


    Then, he began to walk slowly towards the city.


    Within a few moments, he arrived at it''s mighty gates.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    He closed his eyes.


    He remembered the time when he returned here as a mighty hero of the sect.


    He remembered how the gates opened at the cheers and roars of his people.


    He remembered their joy, their passion, as they called his name.


    Serra slowly opened his eyes.


    With but a thought, the mighty gates opened.


    Serra walked towards the town lost in memories.


    He remembered the faces and names of his fellow disciples, his comrades, his family, his teacher and all his friends in this town.


    The town where he was born.


    He walked in the midst of the town alone in silence.


    After a while, he arrived in a secluded space in the city.


    Before his eyes was a small wooden house made of rotting wood.


    It was of poor condition.


    But even so, Serra walked towards its door.


    Filled with nostalgia in his voice, he spoke as knocked.


    "Mother, I''m back."


    Even if he knew that his voice will never reach the one he intended to speak to.


    He opened the door.


    *Creaaaak*


    Within the wooden house, was a small bed made of rags and a few boxes.


    Serra returned this town to the time from when he returned here that day.


    He slowly walked towards the small bed with tears in eyes.


    He slowly stroked the bed.


    He then lied in the bed.


    His bed.


    He closed his eyes as remembered his mother.


    Her gentle smile, her kind voice and her eyes brimming with understanding and love.


    "Mother... I''m finally back home. My town, my sect, my home... Sorry it took me, your foolish son so long..."


    He slowly opened his eyes.


    "In this world, I am the supreme ruler. In the Higher Planes, I am an emperor who rules over all. Who can order the rise and fall of countless living beings. But in this small house, I am nothing more than your foolish son."


    He went towards his the door and closed it.


    He returned to his bed and lay in it once more.


    Closing his eyes, he began to dream of his early days in a time long, long ago...


    When he was not the Winter King, Serra Recquir, founder of the Recquir Empire.


    When he was just a young child hoping to become a man his mother would be proud of.


    Slowly, he fell asleep.

 Chapter 17: Panic and anxiety

    While Serra slept, panic and chaos spread amongst the humans and demonic beasts.


    It was much calmer on the demonic beasts'' side however.


    The Demon King was aware of Serra''s existance and gave the order for all of them to calm down as this was merely the power of someone the Demon King knows and therefore is not a threat towards them.


    This calmed down the demonic beasts but they were wondering in their hearts who this person the Demon King knows but they were much more relieved to know that it was not their enemy whoever this being is.


    On the human''s side on the other hand, they were full of fear and panic towards this unknown being that unveiled that tremendous amount of power and raised a new continent.


    Upon the rise of the new continent, various experts from both sides flew towards the source and were dumbfounded upon the sight of a new continent.


    With some research, they immediately identified the continent as the Meis continent.


    However, they knew that the continent was buried beneath the seas for countless years.


    Why would it rise now of all times?


    Furthermore, the entire continent was barren with only lakes and mountains but no patch of grass anywhere.


    The various major powers investigated the continent and found a city from the ancient era.


    However, it was perfectly intact.


    The various experts guessed that the supreme expert responsible for raising the continent was there and they hesitated on what to do.


    If they press forward, they might offend that expert and it may lead to the extermination of their clans and sects.


    So they retreated and reported it to their superiors.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    The various major powers were discussing this and linked it to the withdrawal of the demonic beasts.


    They were in panic over this unknown being who might be their foe.


    Immediately, a few major powers held a discussion in a private location.


    <hr>


    Within a secluded mansion, there were several figures.


    They each exuded a powerful aura and were in a circle discussing important matters.


    There was a fiery man with a red robe, three figures wearing golden robes and various other experts.


    "I believe that the rise of the new continent is linked to the withdrawal of the demonic beasts and it may be our enemy."


    One of them spoke out.


    "What you say is indeed possible, however, that would spell disaster for our side. What do our scouts say at present?"


    Another spoke.


    "According to our scouts, they don''t dare enter the city and they feel no aura whatsoever, however, they still feel the remnants of power lingering in the region."


    This made the faces of everyone present quite grave.


    "Hopefully, the being responsible for this is not our enemy but if it is... I''m afraid we have little choice but to bend our heads."


    A grave voice sounded.


    "What nonsense! As if we, who lead humanity to prosperity, would bow our heads!"


    The fiery man spoke in an enraged voice.


    "Calm down. It is indeed infuriating for us to bow our heads, but we must do so for the survival of our race."


    The one in the middle of the trio of men in golden robes spoke.


    "Elder brother is correct."


    "We should bow our heads now, then retaliate later."


    The other two men approved.


    "Tch! If I have to bow my head to some shitty beasts, then I''d rather fight to the death then die."


    The red man spoke again.


    His voice sounded final.


    "I won''t stop you if that''s the case, but we aren''t certain yet. We should sent out an envoy to invite the expert present there and discuss what our final decision should be."


    The man in golden robes spoke again.


    "He''s correct. However, we can''t represent all the major powers in this venture, so I suggest we contact them and host an Alliance Conference."


    "Indeed! We need to stand united to determine a proper approach."


    "So it shall be."


    The red man looked irritated but consented in the end.


    "If that''s all, I''m going now."


    He left in a bad mood.


    "Hmph, that man still haven''t calmed down his temper."


    "Enough is enough, let''s leave already and prepare for the Alliance Conference."


    "He''s right. Let''s go."


    One by one, they left filled with fear and unease in their hearts.


    They each began to prepare for the alliance conference to address the issue of the withdrawal of the demonic beast, the rise of the new continent and the person who may be responsible for all of this who may be resting in the ancient city.


    They also arranged the conference to be within three days and sent letters to all the major powers.


    The Alliance Conference... shall be held in the Recquir Empire.

 Chapter 18: Preparations

    In the Throne Room of Castle Recquir.


    Lucas sat in his throne with a stern gaze as he looked towards his retainers.


    Below him were four knights surrounding three people.


    The three people kneeled in respect towards the king.


    "Speak."


    With that one word, the one in the middle of the three raised his head and spoke.


    "Your Highness, we have come to inform you that due to the recent events, there shall be an Alliance Conference soon."


    Lucas nodded his head.


    "We have known that the Alliance Conference would soon commence. We have already received word of it in a letter earlier. So, what are the finer details of the meeting?"


    Lucas asked.


    "The leader of the Golden Eagle Sect has summoned all the leaders of the human race to an alliance conference. And the location of the meeting place shall be the Recquir Empire. It shall be held two weeks later."


    The messenger spoke respectfully.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Hmm... Held here? Why should it be here?"


    "Your Majesty, the locations of the previous Alliance Conference''s were held by the other major powers, the Recquir Empire, or rather the Flowing Spring Sect is the only major power where the Alliance Conference wasn''t held before. Therefore, following the order, the Recquir Empire is where the Alliance Conference shall be held."


    "Hmm... Very well. We have received the summons of the Alliance Conference and shall be pleased to hold it in Our Recquir Empire. As guests of the Empire, We advise you all to rest in the castle for the night."


    Lucas assented to the request.


    "We are honored, Your Majesty."


    The messengers respectfully bowed their heads, gave their thanks and left as they were dismissed.


    Alone in his throne, Lucas began thinking.


    "It should be time soon. Hopefully, we can avert the chaos and let everything conclude peacefully. For now, I shall inform Ancestor. It''s fortunate that the Alliance Conference shall be held here."


    Lucas thought.


    "I shall pay him a visit then."


    Lucas rose from his throne and left for his room.


    Serra had left a certain artifact that allowed him to communicate with him from afar, this should be the ideal time to use it.


    <hr>


    "I see... So it will be held in our empire..."


    A blue orb began to flash as it let out a voice.


    It was Serra''s voice.


    The artifact only allowed voices to reach.


    "Ancestor, your instructions please."


    Lucas asked respectfully.


    "Lucas, arrange for me to be able to attend as someone the others won''t pay too much attention to. It is a stroke of fortune that it will be held here. I will reveal myself and explain the arrangements in time. For now, begin preparations."


    "Yes, Ancestor."


    With that, the light within the orb faded and silence filled the room.


    "Now then... It''s time for me to work."


    Lucas began heading to his throne while thinking of his next task.

 Chapter 19: Arrival

    Within the Recquir Palace Throne Room.


    "My lord, the preparations are complete. We have prepared the rooms for all the guests and the hallway has also been prepared."


    A knight respectfully kneedled before Lucas.


    "Well done. All that''s left is to wait for them to appear."


    The knight bowed then left.


    Lucas let out a sigh as he began to ponder.


    "Everything is ready now. Our Ancestor will also be arriving soon."


    There''s no need to worry whether or not Serra would arrive on time. He can easily travel to anywhere in the world in an instant.


    Lucas smiled.


    It was a smile certain of his victory.


    Suddenly thinking of something, Lucas summoned a knight standing by.


    "Tell me, how are my daughters doing at present?"


    The knight bowed then spoke respectfully.


    "They are steadily cultivating well. But something strange did occur."


    "Oh? What happened?"


    "A certain youth came accompanied by one of our maids and then came to where they were. After he left, they''re cultivation suddenly began to progress further."


    "Hmm... I see, you may go now."


    "By your will."This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    The knight bowed then left.


    "Good good good... So our Ancestor guided them I see... Splendid... Hahahaha..."


    Lucas laughed and he was in a very good mood.


    "This is truly the era where our clan rises to prominence once more."


    <hr>


    Capital of the Recquir Kingdom.


    "We respectfully greet you, Milord."


    A group of knights bowed in respect towards three bald men wearing golden robes.


    "Good of you to come... Now, lead us to the palace."


    "Of course, please come this way."


    The knights led them towards a luxurious carriage and they headed to the Palace.


    <hr>


    Recquir Palace.


    "My lord, the three masters of the Golden Triad Temple have arrived."


    "So they''ve arrived? Excellent. I''ll head over there right away."


    Normally, the King wouldn''t receive the visitors however the guests were powerful figures who were no less inferior in terms of status to him, so receiving them is considered common courtesy.


    Immediately, Lucas arrived at the Palace doors.


    The doors swung open to reveal three men in golden robes.


    "It has been a long time, Clan Lord Lucas."


    The man in the middle spoke.


    Lucas laughed heartily and spoke.


    "Come now, no need for formalities between us. I trust you three have been well?"


    "Of course we have. My brothers, greet the Clan Lord."


    The two other men stepped forward.


    ""Greetings Clan Lord Lucas.""


    "I offer the same greeting gentlemen."


    The conversation between the two parties was warm and amiable.


    Although not all of humanity were in good terms with each other, the leaders obviously were otherwise they wouldn''t be so united against all threats.


    Humans were selfish and greedy by nature.


    However, a terrifying force had forced them to unite and put away their grievances.


    They cannot stand up against any external threat if they have any internal struggles.


    This occurred thousands of years ago.


    Back then, the human race had plenty of internal strife and wars between each other but the Demon Lord appearing had forced them to reconcile even though grudges remain. However, after countless generations passed those grudges faded away.


    Though it''s hard to say if they would remain the same even after the threat has been lifted.


    "Well then, brother Zhen, brother Ken, brother Ren, my maids will guide you to your rooms. I''m sure you require rest after such a long journey. Although I do question where are your subordinates?"


    "We will take your kind offer then. As for our subordinates, we had to leave them behind to help deal with any situation that arises."


    Zhen, the one in the middle explained.


    "I see... Then please rest well until the banquet starts. Speak to any of the maids if you have any needs to attend to."


    They exchanged some more idle chatter before parting.


    A knight then appeared and reported the arrival of more guest and Lucas departed to meet them.

 Chapter 20: Banquet

    Recquir Palace Throne Room.


    One by one, the guests of various major powers arrived. Before they hold the official meeting, they would first hold a banquet. It was a common act of courtesy held by the sovereign of the territory where they hold the meeting.


    The area where they will hold the banquet is the throne room which is the largest room in the castle and is appropriate for the banquet.


    Lucas stood in his throne and was wearing luxurious and grand clothing fitting for the event.


    "Greetings, ladies and gentlemen, honored guests of the alliance! We welcome you into our abode. We hope you all enjoy yourselves here."


    With that, the party officially started.


    The various guests raised their glasses as a sign of respect then proceeded to their own circles to pass the time.


    This was a time to unwind and relax the tension.


    However, it was still a time of uncertainty as they all felt a sense of crisis due to the turbulent times.


    After some time, it was time to introduce the various major powers.


    One by one, each major power was introduced.


    The various aristocrats began to clap and cheer as one major power after another were introduced.


    All of these figures possessed power, wealth and authority and were powerful cultivators with a wealth of experience of countless battles and mighty armies of cultivators under their command.


    Finally, they introduced the final guest.


    "Serra Recquir has arrived!"


    There was slight confusion.


    Naturally, it was a name unheard of in this modern age.


    When the door opened, it revealed a frail and slender youth with light blue hair.


    He looked quite similar to a girl that some mistakened him for a royal daughter at first glance.


    "Hm? Who is this Serra Recquir?"


    "Don''t know. First time I''ve heard of him."Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "Perhaps a noble of the Recquir lineage making his debut?"


    The youth merely smiled quite gently.


    Among the major powers, there were some who were curious while others were indifferent.


    The likes of aristocrats making their debuts is merely trivial mundane matters.


    However they were curious why he had the same name of the ancestor of the Recquir Clan.


    Serra naturally heard everything they said.


    He gazed at Lucas'' eyes and sent mentally.


    I''ll introduce myself towards the others myself.


    Lucas nodded then proceeded to speak with others.


    Serra headed towards the three men in golden robes.


    The three were locked in their own conversations and were slightly displeased that he would interrupt.


    "Hello. I''m Serra Recquir."


    "Hm? Who are you, brat to interrupt your elders when speaking?"


    One of them spoke irritated.


    Serra merely smiled then disappeared.


    The three showed confusion when he suddenly reappeared in front of him.


    "Oho? You''re the one rude to your elders you know."


    "Huh!?"


    In shock, he attempted to strike.


    Serra caught that strike with ease and shut down his attack.


    He gazed at him and sent mentally towards all of them.


    You can''t defeat me. I''m far stronger than all three of you combined.


    Serra released a bit of his aura towards them but restricted it so that only the three of them could feel it.


    Immediately all three of them were shocked.


    What a terrifying aura... Who is this senior? Why would he name himself as Serra Recquir and hide his true form?


    Zhen spoke hurriedly.


    "Senior, forgive us for our insolence."


    "Brother Zhen!"


    The one who spoke rudely spoke in alarm.


    "Quiet brother. You felt his power. He''s far stronger than the three of us."


    Ren immediately bowed his head in shame.


    He gazed nervously towards this youth who was far stronger than him.


    "Speak, senior why would you speak to us and moreover hide your true form?"


    Serra smiled.


    "Hide my true form? This is my true form."


    "Oh? I see, forgive me for my rudeness then. So, why would you speak to us?"


    "It''s nothing special, I merely have things to ask of you."


    "Then please speak. This junior will answer your questions for you."


    <hr>


    The three headed towards a table and were sitted.


    "Well then, I believe you would be curious as to who I am right? I believed that it would be appropriate to introduce myself truly to a few major powers ahead of time."


    "Please speak senior."


    The three were naturally curious as to who this senior is.


    "Well to start, I am Serra Recquir."


    The three were waiting for more answers.


    "By that, I''m not a fake or some descendant named after the ancestor of the Recquir Clan, but the actual ancestor."


    Serra introduced himself casually.


    He felt no joy in shocking or stunning anyone with awe at who he is.


    But the three felt a great shock.


    To be stronger than them who were at the pinnacle of humanity...


    They were convinced that it was true.


    The ancestor of the Recquir Clan was still alive and well...


    This is a grave shock to the three of them.


    "How could that be possible... That legendary figure died years ago..."


    "Oh? Died? I merely ascended to the higher planes."


    "Ascended?"


    Serra explained about the higher planes.


    The three of them were once more shocked.


    "Such a world exists...?"


    "So this we are not at the pinnacle of cultivation..."


    "To be precise, it''s merely the true starting point."


    Serra lauged lightly then began to ask more questions.


    The three answered as they best could then Serra left and began to ask other major powers, leaving the three to their own thoughts.

 Chapter 21: Convention

    Recquir Palace Meeting Room.


    After some time, the banquet concluded and the various aristocrats retired leaving only the important guests.


    As cultivators, they had far stronger bodies than regular people. The party might tire out normal people but they''re unaffected by it.


    They proceeded to a secret underground room with various enchantments.


    Of course, the room was investigated by the other major powers to guard against enemy spies.


    It would be the pinnacle of stupidity if they actually didn''t investigate beforehand.


    Naturally, Lucas agreed to it.


    Refusing here without good reason is foolish.


    "Now then, let us begin the conference in earnest."


    As the one hosting the conference, Lucas had the right to lead it.


    This was a condition that was agreed on beforehand many generations ago.


    Everyone present nodded.


    "The issues here is the sudden rise of a continent, that city that sprung out of nowhere and the being present. We also need to discuss the sudden withdrawal of the Demon King''s forces and the outburst of power we all felt afterwards."


    Once again, everyone nodded.


    "First off, is the sudden withdrawal of the Demon Lord''s forces. The Demon Lord had suddenly withdrawn all his forces from even key areas within the continent."The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    They started from the sequence of events first.


    "I believe that this event is connected to the events before it."


    One of them stated.


    "Agreed. That is indeed possible however it may also be possible that they may simply know something about it and are taking precautions. It is possible that they know something."


    Several voiced sounded out their agreement.


    "To handle it, should we sent a message or some spies first?"


    Someone suggested.


    "That area is far too dangerous. Furthermore, with all the Demon Generals gathered together, espionage will be nigh impossible."


    It was immediately denied.


    "In this case, I believe it''s best we send out a message instead to probe them out."


    "Agreed. There is none present here that specialized in espionage therefore sending a message is the prudent option."


    "I agree. None of us here are good with that stuff anyways."


    "Indeed."


    Everyone affirmed.


    "Good, so it''s settled that we''d send a message? Which one will send a message?"


    "I''ll handle it."


    No sooner had they concluded they''d send someone did someone volunteer.


    "Oh? Mistral Palace Head, you will go?"


    "Indeed. I believe I have the best chance of escape here."


    A middle-aged woman stood up and spoke.


    She was quite a beauty with her fair violet hair.


    "With that concluded, our next topic is that burst of power."


    Everyone felt a sense of dread and tension.


    This was far more important.


    "Everyone present here felt an intense amount of power rise up then fall. When we investigated, we found a massive continent present over there. Within it, we also found a city. Furthermore, we find the continent bizarre. Although it was recently buried beneath the sea, it is filled with dry land, forests and plains. No sign of sea creatures, seaweed or other various things. From research, we concluded that it''s an ancient continent that fell to ruin many ages ago."


    "I believe that the one responsible for that burst of power is the one residing in that city."


    "Indeed."


    "It''s highly likely. Furthermore, this is a critical issue that may be connected to the Demon Lord."


    An immediate uproar sounded out.


    They soon unveiled all the facts present and began speaking of various possibilities, preventions, measures and other countermeasures they may need to try.


    The meeting is starting to get noisy.

 Chapter 22: Introduction

    "We currently have our scouts near the city, however, they''ve reported seeing a figure flew up from within the city. We can deduce from this that whoever was there has recently left."


    There are scouts that are indeed near the city. They have various communication artifacts and methods that allow communication from a far distance.


    Although they did indeed see someone leave, the scouts did not enter for fear of any surprises that being left behind.


    "So, should we send the scouts out towards the city?"


    "No, it''s too risky. Furthermore, we should determine why that person would bring back that continent and that city to begin with. The continent is quite lifeless though."


    "Indeed. We need to determine why."


    One respected figure rose up.


    "This old one thinks that the being who used his power to raise the ruined continent would be a senior from the ancient era."


    "What?"


    "That''s impossible!"


    A survivor of the ancient era? How''s that possible? Someone from that era actually lived up until now and is still alive?


    "That''s the only conclusion I came up with. In our ancestral records, there is knowledge that the Emperor Realm is simply the first step."


    This prompted all the listeners to listen carefully.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "In that ancient era, there was one being who broke through the Emperor Realm and ascended to a new world."


    He paused then drew a long breath before speaking.


    "That great senior left this world but left records of that ancient truth. I came upon this conclusion when I recalled what the name of the continent is. The Meis continent. You should be more familiar with it, right, Lucas?"


    "That''s correct."


    Lucas nodded.


    "The one who ascended was our ancestor. And his homeland was the Meis Continent that was ruined ages ago."


    This drew many gasps and shocked the group.


    "Wait a second. What was that senior''s name?"


    This drew silence.


    "Name? My name is Serra Recquir."


    An odd voice sounded out within the room.


    They looked to the source and found the youth introduced earlier in the banquet.


    He was sipping tea quietly in a free chair.


    He smiled as he sipped tea.


    This shocked the crowd once more.


    How could someone get in here without anyone noticing him?


    Furthermore, this was a gathering of the greatest experts in the world.


    But Lucas and the three men in golden robes weren''t surprised.


    "I''m the one who raised the Meis Continent, my homeland, and forced the Demon Lord to withdraw his forces."


    This shocked the crowd again.


    They didn''t feel that it''s real.


    This young boy, who could easily pass as their grandson, was the supreme expert who reigned supreme countless years ago?


    "Wait, what proof do you have!?"


    One of them cried out.


    "That''s right! How could we believe that a young child like you is the one responsible for all of this!?"


    They all cried out.


    "Aha... Proof? Very well. Here''s your proof."


    Serra smiled, then unleashed his aura towards them.


    But restricted it to only this room.


    Instantly, everyone present within the room felt a suffocating aura of power that inspired dread and terror.


    After a moment, it ended, but everyone was drenched in sweat.


    "So, believe me now?"


    Serra asked with a smile.


    "Yes yes yes! We believe you great senior!"


    "Forgive us, our eyes were blind!"


    They responded in panic.


    "Well then, time to discuss some specifics and to detail my plans and intentions."


    Serra smiled and revealed a mature aura that shouldn''t appear in someone who looked so young.

 Interlude: Arrival

    Within the Higher Realms. Serra''s Region.


    It was the same as ever even though Serra left.


    The attendants who follow him still guard the room where he resided in and numerous powerful cultivators come and go.


    It was very lively.


    Suddenly, a woman appears near the horizon.


    She was quite a beautiful woman.


    Her hair was the color of the Autumn leaves with orang irises and a fair face.


    She was a slender beauty and stood near the horizon crossing her small arms.


    She then let out a yell that resounded through the entire area.


    "SERRA, YOU FOOL!!! I''ve come back! Now show yourself before me!!!!!!!"


    This voice resounded through the ears of everyone within the region present.


    Leaving some lesser cultivators stunned with their ears dripping blood.


    "Who the hell was that!?"


    "Are we under attack!?"


    "Who would dare offend one the four Seasons Sovereigns!?"


    There was panic.


    The attendants hurriedly calmed them down.


    "No, that''s not it..."


    "It''s Aura... It''s definitely her..."This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    "Aura? Wait a sec... The Sovereign of Autumn!?"


    This left some newcomers and those unfamiliar with her shocked.


    <hr>


    Within one of the rooms.


    A middle-aged old man was silently cultivating.


    The moment he heard that voice, he opened his eyes in surprise.


    "Oh... The Mistress is here... I should go."


    He stood up and headed up.


    <hr>


    Aura Fertiner flew up above the palace and was waiting looking very proud and arrogant.


    A middle-aged man flew up towards her.


    The cultivators looked at him in surprise.


    As cultivators, they naturally could see far greater eyesight.


    All the flying cultivators flew back down in terror of arousing her wrath.


    "That''s Basil! Serra''s disciple and the governor!"


    "It appears that he knows her..."


    "Of course he does, he followed Serra for a long time, how could he not know about her and their relationship?"


    Aura looked displeased at those cultivators she viewed as ants discussing her and with a wave of her hand, sealed all sound within the two of them.


    Aura looked irritatedly towards Basil.


    "Oi, where''s Serra?"


    She demanded.


    No one would usually speak rudely to him given his master''s status and power but he paid it no heed and respectfully cupped his hands.


    "Respectful greetings to you, Lady Aura. Lord Serra has gotten homesick and departed towards his homeland."


    "What? And he didn''t tell me!? The nerve of that guy!"


    This left her furious.


    "Wait, that''s not it... Lord Serra considered about it and sent a messenger towards you..."


    Basil hurriedly explained on his lord''s behalf.


    "Messenger...? Ah, that guy."


    A light of understanding dawned within her eyes.


    "I thought it was some random message from the Emperor."


    A troubled look appeared on Basil''s face.


    "Well, doesn''t matter. Tell me where he is right now and I''ll head to him."


    "Er... That''s..."


    "Stop spouting nonsense and tell me already or do you want to get hurt first before you speak!?"


    She demanded aggressively.


    "He went to..."


    Basil explained where Serra went.


    Upon hearing the answer.


    "Good, I''m going then."


    She then flew straight to where Serra was and left Basil hanging in the air.


    Basil looked helpless and shook his head.


    "My lord... please be careful... To think such an unreasonable woman is his wife... I really pity him..."


    Basil hoped his lord would be alright.


    Such an agressive and fiery woman even worse than the Summer Sovereign was Serra''s wife... Such a relationship was something that Aura forced on him and he accepted in the end.


    But even though Aura was extremely powerful with a grand status and overwhelming power, no one was envious of her husband regardless of who they are.


    Primarily because of Aura''s temper and personality, only someone retarded would court her.


    So, although Serra was very powerful and on par with her, they all pitied him and admired him for lasting this long against such a girl like this.

 Chapter 23: Human Race

    "So, respected senior, what do mean you''re responsible for everything?"


    "Exactly as it sounds. I''m the one who spoke to the Demon Lord and asked him to withdraw his armies and end the war in exchange for my tutelage."


    The leaders of the human race began to protest.


    "But, senior, if the war ends, how will we deal with the population?"


    "Indeed. Furthermore, why would we need to deal with the Demon Lord with peace?"


    "Humans will always be superior to others!"


    Their opinions were indeed valid.


    "I understand where you''re all coming from, but that kind of thinking is too naroow and unfitting for a cultivator. In other worlds, there are worlds where demonic beasts and humans live together in harmony and there are indeed demonic beasts who became supreme experts who eventually journeyed towards the Higher Planes."The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    These words calmed them down but they were still reluctant.


    "Indeed... There demonic beasts are as intelligent as humans and can be reasoned with but still..."


    "Not to worry, I intend to stay here for a long time unless I leave for some momentary business, but I intend to make this place my residence. The Demon Lord would never dare to attack so long as I remain here."


    This removed the suspicion and doubt they have.


    With someone as powerful and immortal as this great senior, they truly have nothing to fear.


    "Aside from my continent, I intend to bring back the other continents. It shall be ruled by both Demonic Beasts and by Humans. You all best begin preparations."


    Afterwards, Serra began to explain his next plans to benefit the Human Race and the Demonic Beasts.


    Serra didn''t show mercy towards the Demonic Beasts due to benevolence. He had many friends and disciples who were originally Demonic Beasts such as Syrene. He had no bias towards them and he didn''t have strong racial feelings towards the human race as a whole.


    This combination of factors led him to spare them his power.


    After all, they''re still living beings trying to live in this world just like them. There''s no need for any biased decisions that are narrow minded.


    Furthermore, they should help strengthen the prowess of this world as a whole.

 Chapter 24: Conclusion of the crisis

    After Serra finished explaining everything, he left the meeting room.


    He left the same way he came, disappearing into a blue light.


    One by one, the leaders of the human race gazed at Lucas in a meaningful way before bading farewell and departing to fufill their tasks.


    Finally, Lucas was left alone.


    A few moments after the last guest left, Lucas burst out in laughter.


    "Hahahahaha... This is truly magnificent. Our Recquir Clan is rising to become the leader of this world... Truly a blessing from heaven..."


    Lucas was a man who never had a great ambition. Only wishing to fulfill his duties and be a good father to his children.


    For this reason, he''s only had a few wives and was never too extravagant or too ridiculous.


    But now... With the power to rule over the world at his fingers, how could he calm down!?


    Serra has little interest in mundane matters and would most definitely leave it to him.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    However, he didn''t do this just because Lucas was his descendant.


    He peered through Lucas soul and knew that although he can be overwhelmed with excitement...


    "I should bring out that Thousand-Year White Grape wine... But I shouldn''t get carried away. I''ll celebrate and make sure to do my duties well."


    He is an intelligent man and wouldn''t be swayed by his greed or ambition and do what is right.


    Serra truly has great foresight.


    He knew this man had what it takes to be a wise king.


    <hr>


    "Master, please have some more."


    Currently, in his room, Syrene was there serving Serra with some fine wine.


    "How pleasant."


    Serra remarked as he sipped the wine.


    "Speaking of which, how is Maia?"


    "Oh, that little girl? She''s rooted in the garden saying she likes it there."


    "Oh."


    The garden of the Recquir Palace had many rare spirit flowers that brimmed with elemental essence. It was paradise for plant-type demonic beasts like her.


    Paying her no more mind, Serra began sipping his wine and enjoying the flavor.


    "Well now... I''ll begin teaching that Demon Lord at sometime later... For now, I should pay my disciples a visit..."


    "Master, you''re leaving?"


    "Just a short visit. Why don''t you come with me?"


    This made Syrene overjoyed.


    She was always resentful at not being able to follow her master.


    "Of course I will!"


    "Haha, good girl."


    Serra patted her head.


    "Should I also bring some of my descendants along?"


    Serra pondered.


    It might be a good experience but they might be busy...


    I should ask Lucas.


    Serra thought to himself.


    "But I''ll enjoy some more fine wine first."


    There''s no need to hurry. I''ll stay around for some time before I go.


    Serra regretted this decision a few days later when his wife arrived.

 Chapter 25: Aura Autumn

    Demon Lord''s Palace.


    Serra stood before the Demon Lord with Syrene beside him.


    "Excellent work. You''ve finally taken the first step."


    Serra said approvingly.


    The Demon Lord laughed.


    He''s struggled hard in that world...


    Serra created a mini-world where time was accelerated greatly.


    It made the few days a few thousand years for the Demon Lord...


    But it was worth it.


    The Demon Lord made the first step after the Emperor Realm.


    "I''ve fulfilled part of my promise to you. Now that you''ve reached this realm, I''ll pass this onto you."


    Serra gathered plenty of elemental essense in his hand.


    The light was blinding and gathered at rapid speed towards his hand.


    "This spear, is the Trishula Spear. It will serve you well."


    The light took shape of an ornamental blue spear and it floated towards the Demon Lord.


    The Demon Lord took the spear in his hand and raised it high.


    "Hahaha... Excellent... Such power..."


    The Demon Lord rejoiced.


    He clearly felt the great power within this spear.


    "The promise has been kept as you''ve upheld you''re agreement. Congratulations. You''re quite talented among Demonic Beasts."


    Serra spoke in praise.


    He smiled.


    "You should rest and refine your strenght."


    Serra then left with Syrene leaving him alone.


    The Demon Lord sat and began meditating immediately.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    <hr>


    "Haha... My homeland is quite more interesting than the Higher Planes."


    Serra spoke while in flight.


    "I''ll head back to the castle now."


    Serra intended to build a castle for himself as his own residence but since he was leaving for a short time, he''ll build it when he returns afterwards.


    He''s already arranged things with Lucas.


    "Speaking of Lucas... He''s done well."


    Serra thought of that stern descendant of his.


    He took charge and seized benefits for his clan but wasn''t too overbearing and took a reasonable amount.


    This left the other clans with good enough benefits for them to claim with left none dissatisfied.


    "It''s far better to live in harmony indeed."


    Serra thought to himself.


    "Oya? I''m here."


    Serra saw the castle in sight and descended.


    He could have arrived in an instant but Serra preferred to feel the wind while in flight instead.


    Since he''s reached the pinnacle, it''s pointless to rush.


    "And I''m here..."


    Serra then started walking slowly with Syrene towards his room to enjoy some more wine but fate did not allow it.


    "SERRA!!! COME ON OUT WHEREVER YOU ARE!!!"


    A tremendous, powerful and overbearing voice filled with arrogance resounded throughout the world nearly breaking the eardrums of some people.


    Serra''s face paled immediately.


    He let out a sigh and said.


    "Syrene, stay back for a bit."


    "Wait, master, is that an enemy!?"


    Syrene spoke in worry.


    "No, it''s not. But I''d rather it be an enemy instead."


    Serra spoke bitterly which left Syrene wondering.


    While the living creatures were panicking, Serra soon reached the owner of that voice.


    "Sigh... Aura... Why is the Autumn Sovereign here causing a ruckus...?"


    He saw a beautiful young girl with hair the color of autumn.


    She was truly beautiful.


    Upon seeing him, Aura rushed towards Serra.


    "Of course, it''s to see you!"


    She happily hugged Serra with a strong tackle.


    Serra put on a troubled smile but resisted this blow.


    "If you''re going to hug me... Why can''t you do it normally...?"


    He complained.


    "Hmph, the only one with the right to become my husband is someone who can take my hug at full power!"


    She explained in a self-righteous manner.


    "Aura...You..."


    Serra looked even more troubled but let it slide.


    "Still, hubby, you should have told me yourself that you''re going back to your home! I would have been able to introduce myself properly."


    "Why would you do that...? They''re not my parents, just my descendants..."


    Serra complained.


    "And...I want to visit your mother''s grave."


    That line silenced Serra.

 Chapter 26: Introduction

    Serra looked surprised at the moment and he calmed down and understood.


    Despite Aura''s usual character, she''s quite devoted as a wife and is actually quite rigid when it comes to traditions.


    Most marriages done in the Higher Realms aren''t really grand and are quite simple.


    "I see... Then before that, shall I introduce you to some of my descendants?"


    At the moment, anyone without prior knowledge of Aura would think that she''s a kind and caring, faithful and filial wife.


    "Very well. Though paying my respects to the dead is important, the living have always taken priority over the dead."


    Aura smiled enchantingly at Serra.


    Serra paused and blushed a bit.


    Aura laughed again.


    "Smitten again Serra? Haha, though many presume you to be the cold-hearted Winter Sovereign you''re actually the one with the best reputation among us."Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Indeed.


    The Spring Sovereign is known for having a fierce temper and is quite brutal.


    The Summer Sovereign is known for being a hermit and usually detests other''s company and only enjoys the company of very few.


    The Autumn Sovereign is the most brutal and harshest of them all. Leading a large group of madwomen along with her and she rampaged without care in the Higher Planes.


    The Winter Sovereign is known to be benevolent and kind. Forgiving others for minor and trivial matters and is the friendliest among them.


    It''s because of this that the Winter Sovereign is known as the one with the most number of friends among them.


    "Then come."


    Serra extended his hand towards Aura.


    Aura took it and smile gently.


    "Let''s go, my dear Serra."


    <hr>


    They both descended towards Maia and Syrene.


    They both sighed in relief when they saw Serra.


    "Master, she is?"


    They were curious on who the beautiful woman who appeared with Serra is.


    "This is Aura. My wife."


    "Wife!?"


    "Oh."


    Syrene was surprised while Maia was indifferent.


    "You must be the small fox Serra mentioned to me before, Syrene. And this little plant is unfamiliar to me. Thank you both for taking care of my husband."


    Serra rolled his eyes towards how Aura just acted.


    Aura... Why act like this...?


    But he didn''t show it, simply smiling in approval.


    "Yes! A pleasure to meet you."


    "I''m Maia. I followed Serra after getting subjugated by him."


    Maia introduced herself while Syrene greeted her politely.


    "Well then, let''s head back to the castle. I''d like to introduce you to my descendants."


    "Very well. There is a need for me to meet them."


    Aura laughed.

 Interlude: Spring Sovereign and Summer Sovereign

    Within a forest in an unknown location.


    There was a young man tending to flowers in a garden.


    He looked solemn and quite handsome.


    An aura of harmony and tranquility emerged from him.


    He looked up towards the sky then turned around.


    "So you''ve come... Summer Sovereign."


    He spoke in a tranquil voice.


    "Of course I have. I''ve come to ask you something."


    A voice sounded out of nowhere.


    Then, a fiery man descended.


    "Been a while, Spring Sovereign."Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    He greeted the tranquil man.


    "Why are you here?"


    He asked.


    "Simple, can you come with me to Serra''s homeland?"


    "Homeland? In the mundane planes?"


    "Yep."


    "Why? You can come there yourself."


    He asked puzzled.


    "Well, I''d come if I wanted alone but the Autumn Sovereign is there too."


    "Aura is? I see... I understand why you''ve come."


    The Spring Sovereign nodded his head in understanding.


    If the Summer Sovereign goes to Serra''s homeland as well, that would mean that three of the Four Season''s Sovereigns would be present.


    The Winter Sovereign, Serra Recquir.


    The Autumn Sovereign, Aura Autumn.


    And the Summer Sovereign, Kruez Elsace.


    That leaves the Spring Sovereign, Elric Oslo.


    "Good that you get it. It''ll be cruel to leave you out alone."


    "So that''s why you''ve come to invite me. Very well, I''ll go."


    He agreed.


    "Great."


    Kruez laughed.


    "Before that, I''ll get someone to water my garden for me."


    Elric sent a mental message towards one of his followers.


    "Well then, shall we?"


    "Let''s go. I''m interested to see Serra''s homeland."


    "Yeah, it''ll be great to see each other again too."


    The four peak experts of the world of cultivation would all be descending on a mortal plane.


    This is a great event that would leave many stunned and surprised.


    But only the ones involved know the event.


    Many of their attendants are unaware and simply think that they left for some other place.

 Chapter 27: Aura Autumn

    Within the Recquir Castle.


    Lucas was dazed when a beautiful maiden appeared behind his ancestor.


    She was a beautiful and mature woman.


    "This... this lady is...?"


    Despite being married for many years, Lucas had difficulty keeping his composure before her beauty.


    "This is my wife, Aura Autumn, the Autumn Sovereign. I''ve told you of the Four Season''s Sovereigns before right?"


    "Well yes... but..."


    Upon hearing her name and her status, Lucas felt electrocuted on the spot.


    Serra told him about the Four Seasons Sovereigns some time before.


    That he''s the weakest of the four due to the element he cultivates in and his techniques mainly supportive.


    The other three are far more offense-oriented and are very powerful.


    Lucas felt cold sweat trickling down in his hair.


    He suddenly composes himself and respectfully greets her.


    "Greetings, senior, I am Lord Serra''s descendant, Lucas III Recquir. Current king of the kingdom. Forgive me for my unsightly display."


    Lucas bowed in reverance.


    Aura nodded.


    "Pleased to meet you. I can see that you are indeed of the same lineage as my Serra."


    Lucas displayed a slightly strange expression.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Given Aura''s appearance as a mature older woman and Serra''s appearance as a youth, it seems like a certain lady aristocrats with an interest in younger boys.


    But he definitely won''t say such a thing as appearances can be quite deceiving.


    Serra said that the other three sovereigns are stronger than him. Which means they''re all quite old and this lady might be even older than his ancestor.


    But of course, Lucas knows better than to speak of a lady''s age.


    "Now then, Serra spoke of two descendants did he not? I''m interested in seeing some of my descendants as well."


    Lucas was shocked.


    "Ah yes... I didn''t mention before but Aura originally lived in the Higher Planes but for reasons descended to our plane. She was still quite weak then and we fell in love and ascended together."


    Serra explained.


    "I...I see..."


    Lucas nodded.


    Aura Autumn was the only one among them that had the seasons as her surname.


    In truth, that''s merely because she discarded her clan name ages ago due to grievances with her clan.


    Due to various reasons, she was exiled from her clan with her parents executed due to discord within the clan.


    She was forcefully exiled to Serra''s homeland and they met and fell in love.


    Afterwards, she returned to the clan in glory as a supreme expert and claimed vengeance before departing.


    Leaving her previous clan in ruins and tatters.


    She eventually formed a new clan by herself.


    Naming her clan the Autumn clan after the season in which she fell in love with Serra.


    The Four Sovereigns named themselves after the element they cultivate in and the season they love the most.


    They each have a strong reason to represent the various seasons they chose.


    Elric''s Spring, Krues'' Summer, Aura''s Autumn and Serra''s Winter.


    Lucas does not know why but he knows better than to ask why.


    "Lucas, arrange a room for us two."


    Serra asked Lucas.


    "Of course. Please leave it to me."


    Lucas took his leave and ordered several maids to arrange their room.


    Serra already has a room prepared but it''s not enough for both of them.


    "Well then, let''s go Serra."


    "Yes."


    Aura and Serra entered their room as a pair.


    "Since we''re here, allow me to show you a certain board game I obtained just recently."


    Serra started.


    As peak experts, aside from managing their subordinates and devising new techniques, they mainly focus on their hobbies. Board games are actually quite popular for them as they can play for thousands of years each session.


    They simply have too much free time.


    As peak experts who reached the absolute summit, they''ve lost all motivation the moment they reached the summit and achieved their goals.


    So, they''ve spent their time on their hobbies instead.


    "Really? Let me see..."


    Aura went over.

 Chapter 28: Idle chatter and catching up

    Within Aura and Serra''s room.


    "This is a game Lucas introduced to me some time ago. This is a game used by generals to determine superiority in tactics and strategy."


    "Oh. Explain the rules already."


    Aura liked these kinds of games.


    Speaking of which, they used to play board games like this often to pass the time before.


    "Calm down. You were always impatient... Now then, this game has a general and other units. You can only move them according to their patterns... It''s similar to chess, but it''s slighty different and made to be much more detailed..."


    Serra explained the rules to Aura.


    As they were both very intelligent, they already memorized the rules once.


    "Alright! Let''s start! Today''s the day I wipe my humiliation of 12,746 defeats and claim my 7,369th victory!"


    Aura said spirited.


    "I''ve won consecutively for 3,999 times now... It''s high time I achieve my 4,000th victory! It''s an excellent choice to choose a new game to claim it."If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Serra spoke with pride.


    "Hmph, just watch!"


    <hr>


    "Hahaha, take this! Today''s the day I end your reign!"


    "Try as you will, I will win."


    Aura claims an advantage early game.


    <hr>


    "Now''s the time! You''re worn out from all those battles, time to end this!"


    "Ah! No way I''m going down that easy!"


    Serra counter-attacked mid-game and made a decisive blow.


    Aura defends frantically.


    <hr>


    "Game, Set and Match!"


    Serra proclaims in triumph.


    "Ah! How could I lose!?"


    Aura grieves.


    "And that''s my 4000th victory, thank you."


    Serra smiles victoriusly.


    "Urk, again!"


    "Hahahaha, try again as much as you like! I will win again and again!"


    Serra proclaims with vigor.


    Only at this time would Serra act immature or just like his looks.


    So the game restarted.


    As always, this kind of game is Serra''s forte.


    So he continued to win.


    Aura was irritated and demanded more rematches.


    While playing, they also began to catch up on recent events.


    "By the way, why did you decide to return to your homeland now after reaching the top?"


    Indeed. It''s only been a few years since Serra finally broke through to reach the same level as the others.


    In order, it was Elric, Kruez then Aura and finally Serra. The seasons also determine the order wherein they reached that stage.


    "I decided a long time ago I''d return after reaching the pinnacle."


    Serra spoke casually.


    "That''s pretty impressive... Reaching the top for such a casual reason."


    "Doesn''t really matter... I simply wished to reach the peak. Oh, and I''ll be taking this."


    Serra spoke as he captured an important official.


    "Ah!"


    Aura got careless and lost an important piece.


    "How underhanded!"


    She complained.


    "Your fault for being careless."


    "Grr..."


    She lost that game easily.


    "Again!"


    They continued their chatter. But Aura didn''t let herself remain careless.

 Chapter 29: The Sovereigns Reunion

    Within Recquir Castle.


    Serra was in a good mood today.


    Aura, on the other hand, was sulking beside him.


    "What a beautiful day. I managed to increase my wins up to fifty."


    Serra said cheerfully.


    "Ack... You were too underhanded... Especially that last one where you took advantage of me..."


    Aura muttered.


    Despite sulking, she looked like a gloomy beauty throwing a tantrum so it didn''t have any damage at all.


    This increased Serra''s good mood which made Aura sulk even more.


    "Well, let''s go out and meet Lucas and those two girls."


    Serra spoke.


    The two of them were playing all night.


    Yet they didn''t feel an ounce of fatigue.


    As expected of supreme experts.


    Serra and Aura left the room side by side.


    They were quite beautiful to look at.


    Just like a painting.


    Any artist would regret not getting the chance to draw them.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    They soon arrived at the dining room where Lucas and the two princesses were seated.


    "Greetings Ancestor."


    Lucas spoke respectfully.


    Eisel and Meileen did the same.


    Aura and Serra merely nodded.


    "They look quite cute. As expected of people who descended from me and my darling Serra!"


    Aura spoke with pride.


    Eisel and Meileen blushed a bit.


    Aura then appeared in front of them and patted their hands.


    After some time, they were all seated.


    Eisel and Meileen were seated together.


    Aura and Serra were the same.


    Lucas sat alone at a corner.


    Soon, servants appeared and brought their food.


    "Hm? Interesting... The meat of a fairly strong magical beast was used for this."


    Serra appraised.


    "Indeed. It came from the Calydian Boar. A fairly common boar near the north."


    Lucas explained.


    Though it''s common there, it requires great skill to capture and process it''s meat to serve as food.


    They also help strenghten the body due their vitamins and properties.


    Aura and Serra enjoyed the good food along with their descendants.


    <hr>


    As they finished eating, Serra suddenly looked up.


    "Hm... Aura... Those aura''s... Aren''t they..."


    Aura also looked up.


    "Yes... There''s no room for mistake."


    She spoke with certainty.


    "Those two... Why would they be here...? I can understand Kruez... But why would even Elric show up?"


    Serra asked puzzled.


    "It won''t solve anything if we ponder, let''s head out and greet them."


    Aura spoke.


    "Ancestor? What''s the matter?"


    Lucas asked worried.


    "Nothing to be alarmed at. It''s merely some old friends of ours."


    Serra spoke to dissuade any fear from them.


    "Let''s go."


    Serra spoke.


    "Yes."


    Aura agreed.


    Then, they both disappeared.


    <hr>


    Up above the skies.


    There were two figures who were flying towards Recquir Castle.


    They were Kruez and Elric.


    "Hm... So this is Serra''s homeland... It''s a bit small."


    Elric commented.


    "No, it''s just that the Higher Planes are too large."


    Kruez interjected on the side.


    "I don''t really understand why there''s a point in going to such a small place..."


    Elric spoke.


    "Well, these mundane planes are small... But they''re quite interesting as well you know?"


    Kruez laughed lightly.


    "Oya? Looks like there''s the welcoming party."


    They spotted two figures flying towards them.


    It was Serra and Aura.


    "Elder brother Elric. brother Kruez! What are you two doing here?"


    Serra spoke as they arrived before them.

 Chapter 30: Gathering

    In the skies of the continent.


    Serra and Aura were floating side-by-side as they faced Elric and Kruez.


    "I didn''t receive a message regarding this visit..."


    Serra spoke.


    "Haha... If we actually did that, it wouldn''t be much of a surprise isn''t it?"


    Kruez spoke laughing.


    "Still... If you did say so, I could have at least prepared something like a feast..."


    Serra muttered.


    "No need for that. It''s just us here, isn''t it? No need for formalities."


    Elric spoke.


    He always did dislike formalities.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Well, if you say so..."


    "Now now... No need for that... It''s been years since we''ve all been reunited. Let''s enjoy it at least."


    Aura spoke between them.


    "Aura''s right. On a side note, let''s go down already..."


    Kruez interjected.


    "Well... Let''s go down."


    They soon descended upon a nearby mountain.


    "Time to work."


    Kruez spoke then raised his hand.


    Immediately, a tunnel formed in the mountain.


    They entered the cavern to see a table and four chairs.


    "How crudely designed."


    Elric remarked.


    "Ah, shut it. Intricate stuff like this isn''t my specialty."


    Kruez complained.


    "Let''s just sit."


    Serra said.


    They all sat down.


    "So... Why are you both here?"


    Serra started.


    "Well, I heard you two were here so I decided to visit."


    Kruez started.


    It was a simple reason.


    "...You don''t have anything to do at all, do you?"


    Serra muttered.


    "Well, I was bored. Besides, my subordinates can deal with everything."


    Kruez said.


    "I got invited. Since I''m free, I decided to come."


    Elric spoke quietly.


    "...You guys have too much free time..."


    Serra spoke.


    "But aren''t we all the same?"


    Aura spoke.


    Indeed. By being the strongest, they were all unchallenged.


    Their strength has already been proven.


    No one is foolish enough to challenge them.


    As a result, they truly have nothing left to do.


    As the ones who reign at the top, they''ve left majority of the work to their subordinates.


    They pretty much have a tremendous amount of free time.

 Chapter 31: Returning to Recquir Castle

    In the cavern Kruez casually made.


    The four had a good discussion to catch up with each other on recent events and the situation suddenly came to the point where they had nothing much left to talk about other than idle chatter.


    "Since we have nothing left to talk about... How about we discuss our subordinates over at my descendant''s castle?"


    Serra proposed.


    "Sure. The wine Kruez brought isn''t that good anyways."


    Aura supported.


    "Oi oi oi... This is the wine made from Flare Devil fruits that can nourish your body... It''s a rare product you know...?"


    Kruez complained.


    "And how is that supposed to benefit any of us here?"


    Elric retorted.


    "Sigh... Flare Devils are considered one of the most difficult enemies and are very rare... Fruits from them are hard to come by you know..."A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Flare Devils are a type of plant born in very hot areas with a tremendous amount of fire essence. They''re considered rare in the mundane planes and common in the Higher Planes.


    Flare Devils have intelligence of their own and are very powerful.


    So they''re considered a plague by cultivators.


    They''re nothing but ants in the eyes of everyone present though.


    Aside from that, the Flare Devil fruits are extremely hard to obtain. They come from Human Flare Devils.


    Flare Devils that can take human form. The fruits are generated by using up a ton of their own strength.


    .They have high intelligence and are considered kings among them. The fruits they possess are very valuable and are very delicious.


    Unfortunately, as a result of eating them for many long years, the present company have no real attachment to them.


    Furthermore, they have tons of them so they''re not really rare.


    "Enough of that nonsense and let''s go already."


    Aura spoke.


    Kruez let out a sigh then left along with them.


    <hr>


    The group soon arrived at Recquir Castle.


    "Well now... It''s a good place. Far better than Kruez''s cavern."


    Elric spoke.


    "Oi."


    Kruez complained.


    "Stop that you two..."


    Serra spoke.


    "And we''re back."


    Two figures soon greeted them.


    It was Maia and Syrene.


    ""Master!""


    They rush towards them.


    "Calm down. It''s nothing serious."


    The two breathe a sigh of relief but are alarmed at the two who appear by their side.


    "And they are...?"


    They asked warily.


    "Just old friends."


    Serra spoke.


    This calmed them down.


    "Well... Let''s head back inside, shall we? We''ll introduce them then."


    With that, they head back inside.

 Chapter 32: Introduction and Hierarchy within Sovereigns

    Recquir Castle.


    Within the throne room, all the less noteworthy figures have left with only the twin princesses and Lucas present.


    Maia and Syrene were also present.


    "Ancestor, these two respected seniors are?"


    "Old friends. They''re also my equals yet stronger than me still."


    Serra explained with a laugh.


    This stunned the three of them.


    Stronger than they''re ancestor?


    The three had already considered they''re ancestor as the strongest in their hearts.


    That they''re ancestor would claim two to be stronger than him and would appear before them?


    Of course they''d be badly startled!


    Fortunately, Lucas was mature and could regain his composure.


    "I see... Old friends...?"


    "Indeed. Now, arrange some place to chat and eat for us."


    Serra commanded.


    "Yes, Ancestor."


    Immediately, Lucas arranged some food and wine at an elegant table and they all sat down.


    "So, who are these respected seniors?"


    Lucas asked.


    "They''re Elric, Spring Sovereign and Kruez, Summer Sovereign."


    "I see... An honor to meet your acquantance, respected seniors."


    Lucas bowed his head.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    It was not an easy thing to have a king bow his head, however, these two were far stronger than him and could obliterate their empire with ease.


    It was not shameful to bow his head.


    Furthermore, these two were friends.


    That aside, their ancestor was also present and wouldn''t allow such a thing.


    "Ancestor. Can I ask a question?"


    Meileen raised her hand to ask.


    "Hm? What is it?"


    "Ancestor, why did you claim yourself the weakest of the four sovereigns but claimed that they wouldn''t be able to harm you?"


    This was a valid question.


    Lucas, Eisel, Maia and Syrene also wanted to know and perked their ears.


    "Oh. That''s simple. I suppose I''ll explain."


    Serra manipulated the water to form a sphere.


    "To start with, imagine this sphere as power or as an ore. Power is power, it can rival others or be superior to another. However, this sphere can''t always beat another."


    Serra manipulated the water to form another sphere near the first one.


    "Techniques... Tactics... Styles... Strategies... These can change the shape of the power to something else. Now, think of these spheres as ores. Ores... In it''s raw state, are useless. However, after refining, it can be turned into weapons or various metals for valuable uses."


    Serra explained.


    "This ore here..."


    Serra pointed to one sphere.


    "It can represent my power. Now, watch this."


    The sphere transformed into a shield.


    "Each cultivator has trained and refined his or her power to their own styles. Some are more adept at defensive techniques or supportive techniques which is why their sphere would be a shield. Something well suited to defense but ill-suited to offense."


    "Oh."


    The others understood immediately.


    Indeed. Ore was like that.


    In it''s unrefined state, you could use it to attack someone by throwing it.


    But that was crude and unrefined.


    A waste of effort.


    However, if you forge it into a weapon, it would be more efficient.


    "I''m similar to this shield. My techniques that I developed or learned are all defensive and supportive in nature. These guys can''t harm me that much thanks to my defenses. We have the same basis of power however the way we refined these powers determined our ranks."


    Serra explained.


    "My power would be a shield."


    Serra pointed to the shield of water.


    "I''m extremely tough and can''t be killed. My supportive techniques are the highest class."


    Serra pointed to the other sphere.


    It formed into a spear.


    "This represent''s Aura''s power. Like a spear, it has long range, flexible and very well suited to penetration."


    Then, Serra pointed to the shield again.


    It transformed into an axe.


    "This represent''s Kruez''s power. An axe had great destructive strenght and power. But''s it''s unrefined and is difficult to wield and relies mainly on pure power."


    Serra pointed to the spear.


    It turned into a sword.


    "This represents Elric''s power. A sword is flexible and can be used in various ways. Be it defense or offense. I''m the weakest. Followed by Elric. Then Aura, then Kruez."


    Serra explained.


    The other three sovereigns nodded.


    There was nothing wrong with that analogy.

 Chapter 33: Serras Reputation

    The four sovereigns were still in discussion.


    "Well, that sums our hierarchy."


    Serra said with a laugh.


    "True. But there''s a difference in power regarding our followers..."


    Elric spoke.


    "Difference?"


    Meileen asked.


    "Indeed. As each of us have specialized techniques and abilities, we each have various factions serving us. However, Serra''s faction is the largest with branches in every major city in the Higher Planes as well as thousands of mundane planes in their service."


    "What?"


    This surprised them.


    Serra, the weakest of the four, has the most followers?


    "But... Usually, they''d rather follow the strongest right?"If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Lucas stated a valid point.


    "That''s true... However, the three of us... We all have bad pasts..."


    Kruez spoke with chagrin.


    "Indeed. The three of us are rather violent with our reputations as mass murderers. And we did indeed commit a lot of misdeeds..."


    The three spoke with a laugh.


    "Misdeeds?"


    Serra gave an explanation.


    "Well... The three of them mostly solved everything with force."


    "That''s too blunt!"


    Kruez cried out.


    "...Kruez... Guilty of destroying 43 major cities and exterminating around 483 factions."


    "Ack!"


    Kruez groaned.


    "..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "Well, as you see... Serra dealt with things much better than we did. He also spared some factions who had malicious intentions by not completely exterminating them... As for us... We cut them by the root."


    Elric spoke calmly.


    "Furthermore, Serra is the best healer and strongest defender. He''s healed a lot of otherwise irreversible wounds. It''s rumored that half the strongest practicioners are indebted towards him one way or the other."


    "Ancestor..."


    Lucas and the rest looked at Serra in awe and reverance.


    "It''s said that only Serra has the right to determine whether or not an injury is incurable or not. The top authority in the field of medicine."


    With such a reputation, not even the most malicious cultivators would dare harm him.


    Given the number of factions who he saved and the reason that Serra healed everyone regardless of whether they''re good or bad, they would never harm him since if they''re injured, he can save them.


    And of the numerous cultivators who approached him, none had been denied.


    "After Serra, there''s Aura''s faction, then mine with Kruez as the last."


    The power of each faction was determined by their deeds and reputations.


    In this, Serra has the absolute advantage.

 Chapter 34: Situation on Serras world

    "Speaking of which... Serra, this world is ar too peaceful if you ask me."


    Kruez spoke to Serra.


    "Too peaceful? What do you mean?"


    Serra asked puzzled.


    "Well... Mundane worlds... They''re usually filled with conflict. Even worlds that are united as one have rebels or various other massive conflicts."


    Kruez explained.


    "I know that. So, what are you saying?"


    "It''s simple. Even the worlds governed by sovereigns have various factions struggling against each other. But this world is a bit too peaceful."


    "Oh, that''s because of the truce I''ve made the powers of this world sign."


    "...What?"


    This surprised them.


    "I intend to stay here permanently and only leave occasionally. So, I prefer a peaceful world."


    "Oi... That''s detrimental towards the cultivation of this world..."Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Kruez muttered.


    Indeed, conflict helps progress move forward.


    One can say it''s necessary for a world to develop.


    Especially so for cultivators.


    Conflict helps them breakthrouhg bottlenecks.


    Without them, it''s no exaggeration to say that they may get stuck there for eternity.


    "Well, I did put an end to the war... But I made an exception for one continent."


    Even Serra understood the need for conflict.


    Therefore, he had a certain continent serve as a battleground for both races. This way, conflict still exists.


    "...Even to this day, I find it strange that a pacifist like you reached the absolute pinnacle of cultivation."


    Elric spoke quietly.


    The other three sovereigns reached the pinnacle through immense effort throughout countless years while Serra reached the same realm through refining his arts instead of contant combat.


    "Sigh... I''m envious of the path you took."


    Elric spoke wistfully.


    The same went for the other three.


    "How was this world before you returned here, Serra?"


    "Well... This world was where the human race and the demonic beast race rallied together to fight against each other."


    "Oh? That''s pretty common."


    The mundane worlds were quite unique. Only a few worlds existed where they do not exist.


    "...Although all of us present have different backgrounds... You''re the most plain out of all of us, Serra."


    "One''s roots hardly affect one''s fate. The strong claim their own destiny."


    Serra replied calmly.


    This saying was indeed true.


    Lucas and the other''s understood this saying.


    But the number of those who can fulfill it are few.


    Though the four gathered here are among them.


    "Anyways, aside from the truce. I also raised several continents and made other arrangements. This world is peaceful as it is. But progress will be made."


    Serra spoke as if predicting the future.


    Indeed, now that peace has come, the various races can begin other types of research other than that of war. A new age has come for this world.

 Chapter 35: Deciding on a new course of action

    Recquir Palace.


    "Well... It''s nice to reunite like this, isn''t it?"


    Aura spoke.


    The other three nodded their heads.


    They parted ways many years ago.


    Aside from Serra and Aura who regularly remain in contact with each other, the other two are usually travelling or separated.


    Kruez likes to wander around as a free spirit while Elric prefers to stay in one place.


    Aura and Serra prefer to stay together by themselves.


    They only separate when they have matters they need to attend to in their own factions.


    So, it''s very rare that they all gather together.


    There is an annual meeting where they gather together with their various factions but they can''t act as they want to with all their subordinates around to preserve their reputation and image.


    "Still, we can''t stay here for that long..."


    "True, how long can you guys afford to stay?"


    Serra intends to stay here permanently.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Aura prefers to stay with Serra.


    Kruez likes to wander so even if he stays and just wander the world, it''ll merely take him a few years.


    Elric prefers to stay in close contact with his faction so he''s the first to leave.


    "I guess I''ll wander this world a bit. It''s been a while since I last visited a mundane plane. So, I''ll take it easy."


    Kruez answered in a carefree tone.


    "As for me... I''ll leave after a few days."


    Elric spoke in a stern manner.


    "So soon? You could stay for a few more years."


    "No need. I have an important matter to attend to."


    Elric refused the offer.


    "Important?"


    This interested them.


    Something Elric views as important?


    What could it be?


    "It''s a plant-type spirit beast I''m raising."


    "What? That''s normal."


    Kruez muttered disappointed.


    "Not really. It''s a mutated variety. Perhaps the only one of it''s kind."


    "Oho? Well now... I''m interested."


    Serra spoke.


    Among their group, only Serra and Elric like flowers.


    They both have a garden but Serra unfortunately had his garden destroyed by certain magical beasts so he has to restart.


    The two began a discussion regarding rare plants while Kruez and Aura left.


    They know it''s pointless to stay when the two start talking about gardening.


    <hr>


    "Well, it''s time to leave."


    "Yep. It is."


    Kruez and Elric are going to leave now.


    So, Aura and Serra came to see them off.


    "Let''s meet again like this."


    "Agreed."


    With the promise of next time, they left.


    "So, Serra, what are you going to do now?"


    "Me? I think I''ll need to leave and see some disciples of mine."


    "Disciples?"


    "Yes. So, Aura, can you stay here and watch over this world for me for some time?"


    Serra intended to visit some disciples however the world is in a critical stage.


    He''s worried something might happen so he wanted to leave someone in charge to watch over this world.


    "Sure. It''s the duty of the wife to stay at home while his husband leaves, right?"


    Aura spoke playfully.


    Serra smiled."


    "Thank you. First, I need to speak to Lucas."


    So, Serra left to find Lucas.

 Chapter 36: Temporary Departure

    Recquir Palace Gardens.


    Lucas Recquir, King of the Recquir Empire stood before his ancestor.


    "Ancestor, what do you need of me?"


    Lucas spoke respectfully.


    "Lucas, I will be temporarily leaving this world."


    Serra started out.


    "Leaving?"


    This surprised Lucas.


    Given the current situation, Serra''s existance was necessary for the current development and change of the era.


    "No need to fear, Aura shall stay to ensure everything works out."


    This let Lucas sigh in relief.


    "I see. Until when will you return?"This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Serra thought about it for a moment.


    "A few months at the very least. I merely need to settle matters regarding my disciples. I will soon return."


    "Very well. We will do our utmost until then."


    Lucas bowed.


    "Lucas, when I return, I hope that everything would be settle properly then. I expect great things from you."


    "Yes, Ancestor. I will fulfill your expectations."


    Serra smiled.


    "Excellent. As expected of one of my descendants. You truly stand at the caliber of kings."


    This made Lucas feel proud.


    To have his great and noble ancestor praise him...


    It was a great honor.


    "Now then... It''s time to go."


    Serra looked up then faded away.


    <hr>


    In the sky.


    High up above, Serra tore through a dimensional crack then entered it.


    The dimensional rift was unstable and endlessly violent.


    Serra didn''t even blink as they raged towards him.


    A pale blue sphere guarded him fiercely and the waves were unable to harm him the slightest.


    Serra headed forward at rapid speed.


    He crashed towards the waves.


    They were completely unable to deter him.


    These torrentrial waves were a calamity towards all but four individuals.


    And Serra was one of those four.


    So these Dimensional Waves hold no threat towards him.


    After some time, Serra stopped moving and tore another crack.


    "Now then... My old disciple... How much have you achieved within that chaotic world? Come and show me how far you''ve grown."


    Serra spoke with a hint of a playful smile.


    Then, he entered through that crack.

 Chapter 37: World of Keives

    In a barren mountain.


    A blue light flashed and a figure of a young man appeared.


    "So this is Keives... It''s been some time since I''ve been here."


    Serra spoke with nostalgia.


    Indeed, in the past, he was escaping from a certain natural disaster.


    In the Higher Planes, there are some terrifying natural disasters born in that world.


    They''re an absolute calamity to all who encounter them.


    In desperation, Serra broke through the dimensions and jumped to this world.


    He was in quite a horrible state back then.


    To recover his strenght, he decided to disguise himself as a mortal and lived in peace.


    He spent several hundred years like that.


    When he reached his ''lifespan'', he would orchestrate his death then depart to another place to disguise himself as a mortal once more.


    In his journey, he met a young boy who was abandoned by his family.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    That boy managed to escape alive but his family who abandoned him eventually met their demise.


    After they left him, they encountered a magical beast wave and died.


    Quite an ironic twist of fate.


    They abandoned him to escape alive but he lived while they died.


    Serra liked this boy since despite such a past, he was able to put aside his anger and focus on living on the present.


    That kind of strenght... He admired it.


    So he took him on as a disciple.


    One day, he was able to leave.


    After settling his affairs in this world, he left.


    Now... How was his disciple doing?


    Serra could sense the ties of karma and could see that his disciple was still alive.


    "It would be boring if I just waltz in like that. So, I''ll spy on him a bit first."


    Indeed... That would be a boring way to greet him.


    Serra wasn''t usually like this in the past.


    But years of boredom made him a bit more mischievous.


    "First... Let''s check the situation."


    Serra scanned the surroundings and found magical beasts, humans and a city nearby.


    "Time to head out."


    Serra flew off.


    <hr>


    Human City.


    Serra appeared in a narrow street where there was no one present.


    He mixed in the crowd that didn''t seem to notice that he appeared from nowhere.


    He looked like a simple well-mannered young man.


    Serra needed information.


    "Now... How do I go about it...?"


    Serra began to ponder as he walked.


    "Hmm... Ah yes... I remember Aura''s methods..."


    Serra thought about his dear wife and decided on a simple course of action.


    Aura told the story of when she visited a mundane world.


    The first thing she needed was information.


    Therefore, she went to the best information dealer possible.


    The underground information network from a powerful underground force.


    Serra simply referred to them as underground since their is a myriad ways to call them.


    "Now... Let''s go."


    Serra disappered in the crowd.


    But no one noticed him go.

 Chapter 38: Auras method of Information Gathering

    In the city.


    Serra recalled his darling wife''s words when she told Serra her method of gathering information. On a side note, the other two have also used this method and guarantee it''s effectiveness.


    He didn''t originally like this idea but when this was further explained...


    He changed his mind.


    If his friends and his lover says so, why should he doubt them?


    Being skeptical is a good habit.


    But with proof in his eyes, why should he hesitate?


    Could this be a case where, ''Love is blind''?


    Unfortunately, regardless of the age or status of the ones afflicted, this disease affects them all with 100% accuracy.


    And so, Serra decides to use Aura''s method of gathering information.


    <hr>


    Aura''s method of gathering information was quite simple.


    Yet it had a rather clever and well-thought of approach.


    Still, the method of gathering information is executed by...


    Attacking underworld organizations and taking information from them.


    Indeed... This is quite despicable and rude.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    However, underworld organizations deal with crime.


    They do things like assasinations, robbery, kidnapping and other crimes so they shouldn''t complain when this happens to them.


    Hence, as Aura said,


    "Since they''re criminals, they should be prepared to have the same crimes afflicted to them. They do evil deeds everyday without cause for concern, they''re ruled out."


    This is a clear case of double standards so Serra was hesitant but Aura and the others succeeded in convincing him in the end that since it''s criminals, not innocents, then there''s no problem.


    For a more detailed explanation, Aura said this:


    "When gathering information, it''s fine to speak to commoners but they usually only know the local news and some major news that were already filtered by major powers and aren''t worth knowing that much. To get detailed information about the world, you can speak to scholars who are knowledgeable of history or check the library. It''s a simple matter to learn their language and master it. However, most of that knowledge are filtered as well and are written under the orders of those above and don''t possess any crucial information. They have to worry whether or not that major power would come after them after all. Thus, the best way to gather accurate information, is to go to the underworld organizations and take their information. They hardly care about others as they operate from the shadows and thus possess unaltered information. In the underworld, information is just as valuable as treasure."


    From these words, Serra decided to trust his wife''s judgement.


    And thus, Serra decided to attack an underworld organization to gather information.


    <hr>


    At present, Serra was standing in front of a scar-faced man who was glaring at him.


    "Who the hell are you!?"


    He roared.


    His base was attacked and his subordinates beaten one by one until the intruder finally arrives.


    And the intruder is actually a delicate-looking young boy!?


    "Just a passing traveler. I need information so I came to take it from you."


    "What!? Like hell we will you shameless bastard!"


    He grew even angrier.


    Even the boss of an underworld organization has his pride.


    He won''t go down without a fight.


    "Sigh... So I''ll have to use this then."


    Serra unleashed his aura upon them.


    Instantly, they cowered in fear.


    They couldn''t even think properly.


    Damm it! How could such a thing happen to us!?


    They roared in fury at their own hearts.

 Chapter 39: History

    Within the secret base of an underground organization...


    "S-Senior! Please have mercy! Let us serve you!"


    The leader cried out in fear while cursing his misfortune.


    Why did this happen to us!? We made sure never to offend any powerful figures!


    The leader thought to himself as he pondered why someone like this was at his face.


    "Don''t be too worried. I merely need some information from you."


    Serra spoke kindly.


    Although he followed Aura''s advice, he''s not so shameless as to follow the creed, ''Plunder what they have, they''ve evil anyways, they should be grateful to be of service to me and that I didn''t wipe them out!'' like what Aura would do.


    He gazed at their memories and knows that they''re by no means purely evil.


    They may engage in espionage and thievery but they avoid killing and actually help keep the peace around the city in the slums.


    They remind him of someone he once called ''big brother'' in the past who used to take care of him.


    "All I need is information regarding the history of the world. I''ll give a small reward if you give me an accurate report."Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    "Yes, senior!"


    The leader roared out in delight.


    Good! This is actually a blessing in disguise!


    He secretly cheered.


    "Men, move out and bring me the history book and all reports on recent events!"


    He ordered his subordinates.


    """Yes, Leader!!!"""


    They called out.


    <hr>


    Within half an hour, they gathered all the information Serra seeked.


    He stayed within a rather luxurious room while some attendants served him snacks and tea.


    "Good... I''ll call for you after I finished reading these reports."


    "Yes, senior."


    The leader called out respectfully then left with his subordinates.


    "Now then... Time to find out what happened..."


    Serra began busily browsing the reports and history book they brought.


    <hr>


    For many long years, the world was torn in the war between two great empires.


    The Red Heart Empire and the Sunlei Empire.


    They clashed and fought for the throne of hte world.


    Winner takes all was it truly was.


    However, the damge this war brought out gave all the world great suffering.


    Finally, a great hero rose up and lead his army to battle.


    He defeated both empires then married the princesses of both empires to unite the two into one.


    He then established dominion over the world becoming it''s sole ruler.


    Contrary to what other''s predicted, he was benevolent and spared the royals who instigated that brutal war.


    He then spent 200 years as Emperor rebuilding the land.


    When he finally finished, he passed down the throne to his son and established the Winter Lotus Sect to teach the new generation his skills.


    Many other great masters joined him and together, they created the Lotus Alliance where they would gather talented youths to train as their disciples and pass down their arts.


    Peace reigned over the world ever since, with that mighty hero guarding this world even after thousands of years.


    The name of this great hero is... Ren Wintercleave.

 Chapter 40: Useful News

    Within the Secret Base...


    "Impressive... So you''ve come so far, my little disciple"


    Serra spoke impressed.


    Serra knew that Ren had tremednous potential.


    But to quell the chaos of this world and emerge as it''s ruler...


    That was a grand feat worthy of awe.


    Serra gazed far away towards a distant place where they first met.


    "It''s time to fulfill my promise. Ren, my little disciple, who took the surname ''Wintercleave''... Let us meet once more."


    <hr>


    Serra called to the leader of the organization.


    "Yes, Senior."This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "I''m done reading. I''m satisfied with your service and here is your reward."


    Serra manifested a blue oriental armor in front of the man.


    "This armor is called Lazurite. It will serve well as your reward."


    The man hugged the armor with an excited expression.


    "Thank you, Senior!"


    "Well then... Time to leave.""


    "Wait, Senior!"


    Just as Serra was intending on leaving, the leader called out to him.


    "Hm?"


    "If you''re intending on seeking Lord Ren, the Great Grandmaster, there is a tournament going on at the Wintercleave Capital. He will be present to judge and host the competition."


    This news interested Serra.


    "Oh? A tournament you say? An interesting way to  choose talented youth."


    Serra spoke while smiling.


    "If that is all, I will leave now."


    "Yes, Senior."


    Serra disappeared in a flash of light.


    <hr>


    "Goodwin Cragel..."


    Serra appeared up above the secret base.


    "Hm... You may be a criminal, but you have a good heart. Consider this as an extra."


    Serra cast a spell on Goodwin.


    This spell would make Goodwin have better regeneration speed comparable to magical beasts.


    Serra cast this spell without Goodwin''s knowledge.


    "Now then... Tournament, huh... Perhaps I''ll attend. Just as I tested the current generation in my world... Perhaps I''ll also test the generation in this world."


    Serra spoke with a knowing smile as he left for the Wintercleave Capital.

 Chapter 41: Using the same trick twice is old-fashioned

    Serra had finally arrived in the Wintercleave Capital.


    "What a bustling city."


    Serra remarked.


    This world was far larger than his own homeworld.


    For the nation that conquered this world, it''s only appropriate that they have a large capital.


    Serra understood this quite well.


    After all, given his own and his comrades residences, isn''t it a given?


    As those that stand at the pinnacle of cultivation, they decided that long ago that they must act as their status demands.


    The world of cultivation is the past was extremely lawless and chaotic.


    It was only when the four of them rose up to reach the pinnacle that they subdued all the powerful forces that waged war on the Higher Planes and brought peace.


    There were still deaths, wars and conflicts in the world, but at a much smaller scale.


    After all, with the Four Season''s Sovereigns governing the land, it''s finally peaceful and the weaker cultivators now have a chance to grow.


    Serra remembered his bitter experiences in the past when he first arrived in the Higher Planes.


    Weak cultivators like themselves were bullied around and killed or used as fodder by those above them.


    Most cultivators arriving therefore had a 20% chance of survival.


    Serra shook his head and began thinking on how he should meet his disciple.


    "I could use Aura''s methods again but it''s not that efficient to use the same trick twice. For now... Perhaps I''ll just do the more normal approach and ask around."If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Indeed, furthermore, althought Serra had used that method, he never really intended to harm someone.


    He merely used it for future reference.


    It was quite effective though and saved him time.


    With a thought, Serra appeared in within the crowd but none noticed him.


    In the busy streets, none could see that this man suddenly appeared out of thin air.


    "Now... I suppose anyone would do."


    <hr>


    Within the alleyways, there were a group of people arguing and fighting.


    "Daring to attack us, don''t you know the price you''ll pay!?"


    A heroic woman shouted at several men wearing vulgar expressions.


    "Hahaha, and so what? This might be the Capital, but this is our territory! Furthermore, we have the backing of someone quite high up here! Shout all you want, none will come to save you!"


    Afterwards, they laughed.


    The heroic woman had a vexed expression on her face and her companions had the greatly dismayed faces.


    "Speak! Who ordered you to attack us!"


    This heroic woman was quite intelligent.


    She knew that the Capital wasn''t a place for fights for the law was enforced here.


    However, she also knew that there were exceptions such as when high-ranking nobles or aristocrats would have the Winter Claw Guard would not appear in a certain area while rogues would attack.


    This was one such occasion.


    "Haha, you''ll know soon when I bring you to my boss. He was quite mighty generous too. He told us he only needed you alive and unhurt while we could do as we please with the rest! A lucky day for us indeed eh!"


    The vulgar man who looked like the leader shouted.


    "Hehehe, I''ve had enough with those petty wenches. Time for some fresh fruits!"


    "I''ve long heard how beautiful the maidens of the Sky Blossom Sect are and how rare it is that men get to enjoy them. I''m looking forward to this taste!"


    "Hahaha, I can''t wait to enjoy them!"


    The other men let out vulgar laughs.


    "Hmph, don''t take us lightly! We''re not just a bunch of pretty flowers you can pick as you please!"


    The heroic woman shouted in a valorous voice while she drew her spear and took a stance.


    Her red hair swaing beautifully in the wind as she prepared for battle.


    Her fellow disciples took out their various weapons and prepared to fight as well.


    "So these little ladies think they can fight us? What a joke! Think you can take on me, Bado of the Green Ghost Tiger Gang? Alright boys, you know the drill! Anyone except that lass is fair game."


    His men let out vulgar laughs as they also prepared for battle.


    They were up against the cream of the crop of a second-rate sect.


    Although their strenght and numbers was far superior, disciples of such sects usually have trump cards of their own.


    As they were preparing to duke it out, a third party intervened and knocked all the men out.

 Chapter 42: Disciple

    Serra gazed at the two parties lying unconcious before him.


    "Hm... I intervened at the moment before the battle begins but what do I do now...?"


    Given his senses, Serra long heard the cause of this dispute.


    Apparently, this party that consists of young women either offended someone high up or attracted his interest.


    That person is definitely male since he''s coveting this heroic woman''s body.


    "Sigh... This again... I wonder why I have to keep intervening in these events."


    Serra muttered to himself as he pondered on what he should do.


    "Ah yes... Perhaps that method will work."


    Light flashed in Serra''s eyes as he thought of a way to deal with this situation as well as a method to get himself in the competition.


    After all, he''s always been a benevolent person.


    Helping mortals is kind of a pastime for him.


    <hr>


    "Ah...W-what happened...?"


    The heroic woman woke up and gazed at her surroundings.


    She was sleeping in a wooden bed.


    "Hm!? Where''s everyone else!?"


    She immediately sat up in surprise as she remembered what just happened.


    "Hm? You''re awake at last."


    The door opened to show a young man with delicate features as well as blue hair.


    If there''s a need to say something special of him, it would be his deep blue eyes that reminds her of the sea.


    "Who are you?"


    She asked calmly.


    As the leader of the team her sect sent, she wasn''t a fool and was actually a mature and wise leader.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "My name is Serra. You see, my master and I came here to participate in the competition."


    "Master?"


    "Yes, my master and I came across you girls as well as those guys and heard you''re conversation. My master couldn''t stand such an event and intervened."


    "I see... Thank you for your help. Where''s your master now?"


    She was relieved.


    "My master had urgent business to attend to, so he left early."


    "I understand. Wait. Where''s my companions?"


    She asked alarmed.


    "Companions? Ah, those girls to ask? They''re in other rooms in this inn you see."


    "Hah... Great."


    She was relieved the situation ended well.


    It was a dire situation for them.


    "My name is Lilia of the Sky Blossom Sect."


    She then introduced herself.


    "If I may ask, where are those ruffians who attacked us? I''d like to know who they''re working for and why they attacked us in detail."


    This made Serra look troubled.


    "I''m not sure what to say here... But my master took them to the prison handled by the guards."


    "Prison?"


    <hr>


    In another place and time in the dungeons.


    The ruffians who attempted to attack Lilia and her companions woke up in cold pavement in a cell.


    "Huh... Where is this? What happened!?"


    They cried out in alarm.


    "Oh, good. You''re awake."


    They hear a voice coming through from the side.


    They find a stern guard looking at them behind iron bars.


    "Huh, who are you!?"


    "Me? I''m Captain Fang of the Winter Claw Guard. Now then... Tell me, I gained a witness report that you lot dared to commit a crime in the Wintercleave Capital which is a blatant insult to our Winter Claw Guard."


    "WHAT!? Winter Claw Guard!?"


    The men''s faces paled.


    "Hmph, who cares if you''re some Captain! Release us immediately! Don''t you know who you''re dealing with!? You can''t deal with the person behind us!"


    One of his underlings spoke.


    "Oho? So someone''s behind you? Good good good..."


    The man laughed as he said good three times.


    "So there is actually some fool who dares to make light of us and trespass into our territory I see. The Winter Claw Guard hasn''t bradished it''s fangs in years and someone already dares to insult us?"


    The man laughed a bit more but his eyes weren''t smiling.


    "Don''t you know...? The Winter Claw Guard acts with the authority of the Lord. In other words, to insult us, is the same to insult the founder."


    The men''s faces paled.


    Even the underling who shouted just now.


    <hr>


    Back to Serra and Lilia.


    "I see... So you''re master is involved with the Winter Claw Guard?"


    "You could say that. I came to this tournament to see one of master''s fellow disciples. To see him, I need to participate in the tournament."


    "Oh. Then why not register with us?"


    "Hm? It''s fine, I can register on my own."


    Serra dissuaded her.


    "No. You''re master might not know this, but the tournament format this time is that of a five-man team."


    "Eh?"


    Serra looked quite shocked.


    "There was originally five of us but one of my junior sisters had an accident and couldn''t participate. Therefore, the four of us continued our journey while looking for a fifth member in this capital. If you don''t have a team, why don''t you enter with us?"


    She offered.


    They helped her so it was natural to repay their kindness with gratitude.


    "Is that so? Then I''ll graciously accept."


    "Excellent. I''ll see the rest of my junior sisters then and speak to them."


    "Allow me to escort you there."


    Serra offered with a smile.

 Chapter 43: Meeting Up

    Inn.


    Serra led Lilia to her companions rooms.


    By then, they were more or less awake.


    After meeting up, they went down and had something to eat.


    They sat down at a round table and began to talk.


    "This is Serra and he will be our fifth member."


    Lilia introduced Serra to her companions.


    The others already know that Serra''s master was the one who saved them.


    "Okay. Little brother Serra, I''m Aies."


    A young girl with red twintails introduced herself.


    "A pleasure to meet you."


    Serra replied courteously.


    "Thanks for saving us back then, Serra. I''m Seilin."


    A tall and slender woman with purple hair introduced herself as she expressed her gratitude.


    "Not at all. It was my master who intervened. I just helped slightly."


    Serra smiled as he replied.


    "I''m the last one... I''m Luisa."This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    A stern woman with short green hair spoke.


    "Good to meet you."


    At present, the four girls had a good impression on him.


    Serra was a young man but had a mature air around him.


    He was humble and kind.


    An amiable person who calms people around him.


    Serra in the inside was quite surprised though.


    Usually, such an arrangement would make him a bit suspicious.


    However, he finds that none of these girls were suspicious.


    Serra then asked.


    "You girls are quite kind. Usually, people would be suspicious at how such a thing happened."


    He remarked.


    "Not at all. If you were the one responsible, you wouldn''t have helped us."


    Lilia replied kindly.


    "I see..."


    Serra smiled.


    He understood these girls a bit better now.


    They weren''t naive.


    They simply trusted their instinct.


    "More importantly. How should we prepare for the tournament?"


    Seileen cut in.


    "Indeed. In the tournament, the positions are Captain, Vanguard, two Rear Guards and Support."


    "Positions?"


    Serra asked puzzled.


    "Yes. The Five-Man team tournament can be fought in different styles."


    Aies replied.


    "There is a team battle where all five fight against each other, there''s the Wolf Pack where one member fights one on one. When one falls, another member takes their place until all members of the opposing team are beaten. Finally, there''s the Captain''s battle where the battle is decided by their Captains."


    Luisa explained.


    "I see... So these three are the methods that teams use to determine victory?"


    "That''s right."


    Lilia replied.


    "It''s quite a simple format. But it sounds quite exciting."


    Serra spoke.


    "So, what are our positions?"


    "Well... Lilia is the Captain. Luisa is the Vanguard. Aies and Seileen are the Rear Guards while your the Support."


    "Support has been decided for me?"


    Serra asked puzzled.


    Lilia explained immediately.


    "You see... Our member that dropped out was our Support and specialized in healing and control."


    "Healing and Support... Then I suppose you have good luck. That''s what I specialize in."


    Serra smiled


    But inside,he thought,


    I''m truly bound by karma to these four girls. To think that I''d get the role I specialize in the most...


    But if so, I suppose there''s nothing wrong with giving some help.


    "If everything has been decided, let''s go register after eating."


    Lilia concluded.


    Luisa called in the maid and asked for some food.

 Chapter 43: Registration and Misunderstanding.

    Serra and Lilia and her companions head to the registration hall.


    "How noisy."


    He remarked after entering the hall.


    "Well... That''s normal. It''s something that can change one''s life after all."


    Lilia replied.


    "Hm? What''s that?"


    Serra pointed to an exit where there''s a lot of noise coming around.


    But not just noisy chatter but war cries and the sound of steel.


    "Oh. That''s the testing area."


    "Testing area?"


    "Yes. The tournament has strict requirements given it''s prestige. Naturally, they test the qualifications of the participants."


    Lilia explained.


    "Oh. No wonder it''s much more noisy over there..."The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    He remarked.


    "Well, enough of that. Let''s register already."


    Luisa spoke.


    They nodded then started heading there.


    Fortunately, there''s wasn''t a long line in the registration.


    Majority of them are in the Testing Hall where they''re being tested on their qualifications to be participants in the tournament.


    However, a lot of people were staring at them.


    The gazes from the men were lewd and lustful.


    Only a few of them identified them for the sect they represent and knew that despite being a second-tier sect, they''re quite a formidable team.


    "I detest these gazes..."


    Aies spoke.


    "Puff out your chest with pride. This is natural."


    Luisa spoke.


    "Stop teasing me!"


    Aies got angry.


    "Oh. Right. You don''t have a chest to puff out with."


    Luisa spoke with realization.


    "Big Sis!!!!"


    Aies got even more angry.


    "Calm down you two."


    Seileen tried to calm them down.


    Lilia was busy registering with Serra so they weren''t interested in intervening.


    The lady at the registration desk looked at them and asked again.


    "Okay. So, you are lady Lilia correct?"


    She asked kindly.


    "Yes. These are my companions."


    She checked again on their positions and their names.


    "Wait. Male?"


    She found that the gender for Serra was male.


    "Yes. Is there a problem?"


    Serra asked kindly.


    "..."


    Serra looked very delicate and beautiful like a woman.


    A number of gazes were focused on him earlier since they mistook him as a woman.


    "No. There is no problem. Please proceed to the Testing Hall."


    Despite her emotions, she was very experienced and could thus deal with this.


    "Okay. Let''s go."


    Lilia called out.


    Aies and Luisa stopped fighting and followed along.

 Chapter 44: Testing Hall

    As Serra and his companions left, the hall began it''s discussion on the team that left for the hall.


    "Hm... That team would be quite formidable. I recognise the four of them. Luisa, Aeis, Seileen and Lilia. I don''t recognise the other one."


    "They''re from a second-tier sect... Moreover, one that''s very close to becoming a first-tier sect. They should more or less be treated as a formidable contender around middle-class."


    "There''s no information on that other one...I remember that they''re support should be someone named Millia. However, that person is clearly not her. I have good information on all the combatants. Especially formidable ones. Did Millia met a mishap perchance and they got a 5th member on the last second?"


    The various intellectuals from the formidable teams cooly made their analysis.


    They all came from various top-tier sects and they gathered information on the various competitors and their weaknesses.


    They''re all balanced teams with various powers backing them and they''re prepared for their battles well.


    Althought they were indeed beauties, they weren''t fools that would put woman before glory and honor.


    "Wow, what beautiful babes!"


    "Yeah Boss! Coming to this place was worth it!"


    "Hehe, when this bad boy wins it all, I can''t wait to taste those women! And I''d get to savor even more after winning!"Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    Well, the elite are at least.


    Majority of them present are lustful beasts and are blinded by lust and fame.


    The elite teams turned away their faces in disgust.


    <hr>


    Serra and his team proceeded to the Testing Hall.


    It was a wide field.


    There were plenty of teams where they''re powers were being tested.


    "Welcome. So, you''re here to be tested?"


    A stern middle-aged man spoke to Serra''s team with smile.


    "Yes."


    "Good. Now, for some basic rules."


    He then began explaining some rules in the Testing Hall.


    "First, we will test not your cultivation, but your strenght, skill and ability. Cultivation level is secondary and isn''t a very good way to test ability. There are some no good young masters or mistresses that gained their cultivation through outside sources. Thus, their actualy abilities are hollow and weak."


    He pointed to a door to the left.


    "That door leads to a room that tests your actual strenght."


    He pointed to the right.


    "That door leads to a room that tests your skill."


    Finally, he pointed to the middle door.


    "Lastly, that door tests your actual ability."


    He smiled.


    "Now, there''s no order in which you can test your ability but listen to this. Bribery and shady deals aren''t allowed. This is a place where those with true ability are tested!"


    He spoke with authority.


    "This is a team battle. Thus, if any one of you fail one test, all of you fail. There are only three tries per team. This is just the preliminary tests. If you are unable to fulfill them, you don''t qualify to compete. That''s all. Any questions?"


    He gazed at them with an observing eye.


    "Yes. What do you recommend we try first?"


    Aies asked.


    "Oh. That''s easy. I suggest testing strenght first. Then skill with ability as the last. They are easiest to hardest of the tests."


    "Oh, thanks sir!"


    Aies bowed.


    The rest said their thanks then followed the directions to test strenght first.


    The middle-aged man gazed at them.


    "Hm... What a well-mannered team. I sensed great power from them. Perhaps they''re worthy of being called the dark horse of the tournament?"

 Chapter 45:Test of Strength

    Lilia''s group entered the door to take the first test to see if they can qualify for the tournament.


    Upon entering, they see a young man wearing green robes.


    Upon seeing them, he greeted them.


    "You''re here to take the test?"


    Lilia stepped forward.


    "Yes, we are."


    "Oh that''s fine. I''ll explain the rules then."


    He led them to a field where there were stone slabs over.


    "These are ironstone slabs. You merely need to crush them with a punch. There''s two tries each. It''s fairly easy and because of that, it doesn''t take long to get it done."


    He explained the rules.


    "Oh. No wonder the others are crowded while this place isn''t."


    Luisa remarked.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    The young man smiled.


    "Yes. That''s why this is a simple and easy job for me."


    He laughed a bit.


    "So, there''s no order in who goes first so long as everyone passes. Which of you ladies would like to try first?"


    "Since anyone can go first, I''ll go!"


    Aies recommended herself.


    She stood before a stone slab and rushed at it with her small palm in the air.


    "Hiya!"


    Upon coming in to contact with her palm, the stone slab was smashed.


    "Oh. Pass."


    The young man remarked.


    "Yay! I did it!"


    Aies laughed and smiled smugly.


    "Hm... Wow... Small yet powerful."


    The young man remarked further.


    "Oi, who are you calling small!?"


    Aies retorted.


    "Enough of that. My turn."


    Seileen stepped forward and stopped Aies from making take longer than it should.


    Aies pouted but returned obediently.


    Seileen was a graceful lady.


    She stood before one of the stone slabs and made her move.


    She crushed the stone with ease.


    However, fragments didn''t scatter as messily as it did for Aies.


    "Pass."


    The young examiner spoke.


    "Me next."


    Luisa strode forward.


    She walked to a stone slab and swung her hand downward.


    The stone slab was sliced in two with that chop.


    "Splendid. Pass."


    The examiner called out.


    "Well then... Since my sisters made their show, time to make my move."


    Lilia called out proudly.


    She took her step with grace and swung her arm with force.


    "Wow!"


    The young man called out.


    The stone slab was turned to dust.


    "Ooh... That''s Bis Sis Lilia for you!"


    Aies called out.


    "Well them... I guess I''ll go next."


    Serra took his step and striked.


    "Oh. Pass."


    The stone slab wasn''t destroyed but it was cracked which was passable.


    "Well done. You''ve passed the trial of strenght."

 Chapter 46: Advice

    "Well done."


    The young man smiled.


    "Your team has passed the trial of strenght. If you''re following the advice of my senior, that means you''ll take the trial of skill next, right?"


    "Yes."


    Lilia nodded.


    "Good. Here''s my advice for the next trial... There''s no time limit on when you can complete the trials. However, since you all are entering on the last day, you have little choice but to complete them all at once. So, I have a bit of advice for you."


    They listened intently.


    "The Trial of Skill tests your skills depending on you''re role. So to say, the Vanguard is tested on his ability to defend attacks while the Captain is tested on his ability to lead others and command them in battle. The Support is tested on their ability to support and heal others while the tests for Rearguards vary."


    He explained it simply.


    "Vary?"


    Luisa asked.


    "Yes. The Rearguards are expected to support others so that mean''s they''re mainly jack-of-all trades but sometimes they''re expected to specialize. In my opinion, you''d have an easier time if you were an all-rounder."If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "I see..."


    Lilia understood.


    "So, what do we have to do?"


    "Nothing much. You simply have to try at your peak condition."


    The man smiled.


    The girls rolled their eyes at him.


    "Well, enough of that. Good luck."


    The young man turned around and began talking to a new group.


    "So, what do we do?"


    Luisa asked Lilia.


    "Well, let''s take his advice and rest for now."


    Lilia recommended.


    "Okay. Let''s rest at a nearby restaurant for now then take the challenge afterwards. We didn''t need to expend as much energy as we did earlier but it never hurts to be sure."


    Serra spoke.


    This sounded reasonable and the girls agreed.


    <hr>


    "Hm... While we''re resting, how about we gather information?"


    Serra recommended.


    They were at a nearby restaurant eating snacks.


    Despite being male, Serra looked just as beautiful as a girl so it seemed like a gathering of beauties at a glance.


    Due to this, there were a number of men drooling at the sight.


    "Luisa, would you mind gathering information from combatants that failed?"


    Lilia asked Luisa.


    "Hm... Sure."


    "It''s a pity we don''t have Mir with us. That person was specialized for information gathering, wasn''t she..."


    Aies said.


    "Haha... yeah."


    Luisa said.


    "Mir?"


    Serra asked puzzled.


    "Mir was supposed to be our support but she was injured severely during our journey so it''s just us."


    Lilia explained.


    "Oh, then how is she now?"


    "We met up with fellow disciples on our way and they took her back to our sect. Unfortunately, we were pressed for time so we decided to simply recruit someone else on our way here. We didn''t expect an unsavory bunch to attack us though."


    Upon remembering that group of thugs, Seileen frowned.


    "Well, that''s that. It was already settled so we should just move on."


    Lilia spoke.


    Luisa nodded.


    "No sense talking about this stuff, so, let''s get some more snacks!"


    Aies said.


    "Well... That''s one way to deal with things I guess..."


    Serra remarked about the group.


    "After we eat, let''s gather information for an hour before we take the next trial."

 Chapter 47: Information

    After finishing their lunch, the team separated as they carried out their activities and gather information.


    The four girls left and decided to gather at the hall later.


    Serra then seeked out previous trial takers and gather information.


    Fortunately, there were many willing to talk.


    "What? You want information on the Trial of Skill? Okay."


    "Thanks. So, what kind of trial did you get?"


    "Well, I''m a Rearguard but I mainly fight with my bow. So, my trial was hitting targets accurately."


    "Oh? Can you explain more in detail?"


    "Sure. Not much I can say..."


    Serra used some ability to make them more willing to talk and even if they thought about it, they wouldn''t find it strange.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Like that, Serra gathered around 12 testimonies about the trial however...


    "Hm... Each trial is different even by slightly depending on the person..."


    Serra concluded.


    "In conclusion... Each trial vary by each individual. Is this a measure to prevent cheating?"


    Nonetheless, it''s time to gather.


    "I''ll speak to the rest. Perhaps they gained more information than I did."


    Serra could easily make things easier for them but it''s more interesting to do it like this.


    It''s entertaining and could prove to be an interesting topic


    <hr>


    "Okay. Is everyone here?"


    Lilia asked.


    "Time to report your information."


    They began to speak.


    "Hm... So Aies and Seileen just asked around, Luisa spoke to some information dealers while Serra looked for previous trial takers...? As for me, I also seeked information dealers..."


    Within a few minutes, they compiled the information they gathered.


    After sorting out the information, they made a conclusion.


    "The basic things they test is depending on your specialty and though the requirement to pass vary, they basically test our skills."


    "Well... That''s simple..."


    They remarked.


    "Nonetheless, we''ve recovered. It''s time to go."


    Lilia spoke.


    They need to move now.


    The faster they can finish, the faster they can rest.


    Furthermore, they need information regarding other teams...

 Chapter 48: Test of Skill

    Lilia and her team enter the Hall of Skill to take the test.


    Upon entering, they spot an old woman with a velvet robe.


    She walks towards them.


    "Oh dear, you came to take the test?"


    Lilia stepped forward.


    "Yes. Are you the proctor?"


    She asked.


    "Yes... It seems my disciple, Lesc, was the one who tested you earlier?"


    "Lesc? Ah, the young man in green robes."


    Luisa remarked.


    "Yes. That''s him. Well then... Will you listen to the rules first?"


    "Yes."


    Lilia immediately agreed.


    "Very well... The trial of skill vary from person to person. There are only three tries for each person to take it. If one person fails after three tries, all of you fail."Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    It was harsh yet simple rules.


    "We understand."


    However, every participant took ardurious training to prepare for this tournament. All of them are all well prepared and are the best of the best among their generation in the world.


    Luisa, Aies, Seileen and Lilia went through vigorous training and were well prepared.


    The only question is Serra.


    To this, they did feel some doubt.


    How well would someone who joined in on the spur of the moment do?


    "Very well. Each member would be tested individually."


    The old woman pointed behind her.


    "Before we start, I''ll introduce myself. I''m different from my disciple who didn''t even give you his name. I am Relin. Now, behind me are five doors. In order, the first door is for support, the second and third door is for the rearguards, the fourth is for the vanguard while the last is for the captain."


    She finished.


    All five of them faced each other and gave a determined nod.


    This second trial is notorious for seeing the highest amount of failed groups.


    However, they won''t fail.


    They each head off to their respective trial and entered.


    "Hm... I believe that these five will succeed."


    Relin spoke.


    In her time, she saw many groups.


    Thus, she''s confident in her eyes in determing who will pass and who will fail. And in her opinion, those four will succeed.


    Indeed, four.


    She couldn''t see through that young man who was their support.


    One way to tell would be to look in their eyes.


    She gazed in their eyes closely.


    She also gazed at that young man closely but failed to tell anything...


    "Could that one be a senior who came to join in on the tournament for fun?"


    She muttered to herself.

 Chapter 49: Serras Test

    Serra walked through the door and found a masked person in black robes standing there.


    The room had blue walls and four doors.


    One to each direction. They were also placed at the middle.


    The masked person was standing in the middle of the blue room.


    "Are you here to test me?"


    He asked.


    The masked figure nodded.


    The person wore thick black robes that masked the features of the body. It was difficult to determine the gender of the person inside.


    "Here. Draw."


    He took a box from a spatial ring and placed it in front of him.


    The voice was gender neutral.


    It was difficult to determine the age or gender of the person.


    Curious, Serra used his ability to take a look.


    And he was shocked.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Of course, he didn''t let a single trace of that emotion appear.


    The person was actually a girl.


    A black haired beauty in fact.


    She was at a rather young age too.


    Tossing his shock aside, Serra stepped forward to draw a paper.


    Drawing one would determine his test.


    He heard it from others earlier.


    "Hm? Healing?"


    He passed it to her.


    "Healing. Your test is to heal an injured creature. How well you heal determines whether you pass or not."


    She explained.


    "Understood."


    He nodded.


    "Wait here."


    With that, she left through a door.


    After 20 minutes, she returned with a large white tiger.


    "Hm?"


    Looking closely, the tiger was wounded heavily.


    "Heal this creature. Here are the tools you can use."


    She spoke and via her spatial ring, various herbs and potions were neatly arranged in a large table that was placed near the tiger.


    Serra stepped forward.


    He judged that a creature prepared by them won''t attack.


    Serra felt quite confident.


    Of course he did, he was a peak expert who specialized in support.


    However, he had to hide his ability here.


    Although, in his homeworld, he was in a sect that specialized in water. There, he favored mastery over healing.


    He''s healed many beasts and people.


    Here, he''ll display the same level of ability he did at the same age as Lilia and the rest.


    First, he walked forward and observed the creature.


    It was an ice-type Iceborn Tiger. A fairly strong creature that lived in the artic tundra or places where ice and snow continue to fall and spring never comes.


    The tiger had severe injuries especially in it''s stomach. It''s right eye was also bruised.


    The injuries in it''s stomach were by metal weapons while the right eye was injured via blunt attacks.


    There were minor scratches everywhere in it''s body.


    After 10 minutes, he finished his observation.


    Now, it was time to heal it.

 Chapter 50: An Excellent Support

    Serra chose a few select herbs and began treatment.


    First, Serra used his abilities to cool down the area around the bruise in the eye.


    Then, Serra picked herbs from among the herbs brought before him and began combining them.


    There were some herbs that would cause harm or cause further harm among the herbs brought, however, Serra wouldn''t choose them.


    They were obviously placed there to mislead the participants.


    Aside from several herbs that cause harm, there were three herbs that absolutely couldn''t be used as they would undoubtedly cause more harm then good.


    The clothed woman felt some appreciation towards this young man.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Such medical skill isn''t common among youths nowadays.


    Aside from avoiding the wrong herbs, Serra chose some herbs that aren''t the best possible combination.


    An excellent score is enough.


    There''s no need to go for perfection.


    Thus, he intentionally chose the combination that would heal the beast, but did not choose the best possible one.


    After 20 or so minutes, the process was completed.


    The clothed woman took a look at the beast.


    "Superb. You passed."


    She gave her approval and his result.


    "Whew..."


    Serra intentionally acted tired to fool her a bit.


    "Hopefully the others passed..."


    He murmured.


    He left the room the same way he went back in.


    "Hm... A pleasant young man... An excellent supporter. The team he''s in is blessed."


    The clothed woman took a last look at Serra as she watched his back.


    <hr>


    "Hm? I''m the only one here?"


    "Oh?"


    Serra returned to find no one present among his team.


    "You''re companions? They''re still undergoing their test. You were the fastest."


    The proctor remarked.


    "I see... Then, I''ll wait for them here. Also, can I ask some questions from you?"


    Serra asked.


    "Oh? Sure."


    "Well then, can you tell me about the founder?"

 Chapter 51: About the Founder Part 1

    "Our Founder? Lord Ren Wintercleave?"


    The proctor asked.


    "Yes. Since you''re obviously a respected elder, I''d like to know if you know some stories to tell about the founder."


    Serra answered.


    "Haha... Well, there''s no shortage of people asking about him and you''re in luck. Actually, in my younger years, I once met and greeted the founder myself."


    She said with pride.


    Apparently, it''s common for some younger disciples to ask about the founder.


    The legendary hero who united the world and brought an end to all the chaos. An enigmatic man still alive to this day after the passage of countless years even after all the other heroes departed.


    It''s natural for many younger disciples to ask about him with their senior disciples.


    "When I met Lord Ren, he seemed like a tired old man with a hint of death."


    She recounted her meeting with him in her younger years.


    "Though that was his appearance, he seemed wise and benevolent. Although I''ve heard of many stories of him as a ruthless tyrant and that he killed countless foes. He piled mountains of corpses and bathed in rivers of blood. I pictured him as a brutal and merciless man who came from hell. Yet, he seemed so wise, kind and benevolent... I was truly surprised. When I spoke to him, I thought of him merely as a senior so I didn''t associate him with the founder at all... He seemed quite sad and lonely when I saw him."This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Upon the sight of that lonely back, she was overcome with emotion.


    "When I asked him what he was sad about, he said he thought of his younger years and his days of happiness."


    "Younger years?"


    This puzzled him.


    "In his childhood, he was abandoned by his parents. However, he met a kind senior who guided him on his path. He taught him cultivation and raised him as his disciple. One day, he parted ways with him due to very important matters. But that senior promised him that he''d one day return. That senior was someone like a father to him. A person he held dear."


    "..."


    Serra fell silent.


    "Oh? Why the silence?"


    "Nothing. I just felt puzzled who that senior is."


    "Well, I suppose that''s natural. The teacher of the greatest man in this world is said to have come from the stars..."


    Serra cringed.


    I know for a fact that Ren wouldn''t think of me like thatbut the future generations of this world did?


    She ignored him then continued.


    "Many great seniors sought to know about this great teacher and believed that there should be records of him. However, they failed so they asked Lord Ren instead."


    She paused.


    "According to Lord Ren, his teacher was someone who didn''t belong to this world. He was severely injured and came to this world... Then, he met Lord Ren and taught him. Lord Ren at that time was a child abandoned by his parents. His origins isn''t really a mystery."


    She began to recount Ren''s origins.


    "Lord Ren was the child of a noble house. But it was a chaotic time. One day, a wave of terrifying magical beasts descended. His parents abandoned him and they separated... However, in an ironic twist of fate, he survived while his parents died. Perhaps due to this experience, he''s very firm and strictly forbids betrayals. He detests internal struggles especially among family so he made means to ensure that no such struggle occur in the family. His efforts bore fruit ultimately.


    The Royal Family despite it''s large size is firmly united and there are no conflicts. Instead, there is a pure atmosphere of competition. This is a grand feat that is truly worthy of a man who united the world."


    She praised greatly.


    Reverence in her face.


    "Well, I sidetracked a bit, but let me continue. After that event, his home was ruined. So, Lord Ren lived in the wild and did his best to survive. One day, a star fell where he was. Within that light was the man who would ultimately become his master. An immortal from the heavens has descended."

 Chapter 52: About the Founder Part 2

    Within the hall.


    The proctor continued her story.


    "The Founder at that time was severely injured after surviving that horrifying calamity. When he saw his master descend, he thought he was an angel or a god. Perhaps an immortal who descended from the heavens? Regardless, that great senior saved the Founder in his dire time of need. When the Founder woke up, he was in a small cottage far away from where he saw his master."


    She paused.


    "There are many rumors as to how this senior looked like. Many say he''s a stern middle-aged old man."


    Serra cringed.


    Stern middle-aged old man...?


    "However, majority agree that his figure is that of a wise old sage. A figure brimming with wisdom and benevolence."


    Serra felt it''s more fitting.


    A wise sage I see... Well, that can describe me well enough.


    "On that notice, there''s a small rumor thought that his master was a youth with blue hair and features similar to that of a young maiden."Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    A girly faced youth...? I don''t like that description though it is accurate.


    Serra does feel that he looks similar to a girl because he inherited his looks from his mother but still...


    It doesn''t feel good to be called like that by others.


    "There''s all this hubhub about his face but no one truly knows. We could confirm it with the Founder but the he prefers not to tell others of his figure. A lot of people did ask him however he turned them down saying that there are reasons why he refuses to disclose his true appearance. The rumors about his true form are all over the place though."


    Serra fell silent at that.


    Well... I can only imagine how people would react if they found out the revered master of the man who unified the entire world is someone who looks like a young girl... I''m glad in a sense.


    "Back to the story, his revered master began teaching him his arts and techniques. Apparently, he took a liking to the Founder and so, he took him as a disciple."


    The proctor then began recounting the hardships the Founder encountered and surpassed that ultimately honed his personality and very being.


    Aside from telling the story, she also went on and on about various tales about him and rumors so they backtracked a few times.


    Serra didn''t mind though.


    He was interested in how his disciple was doing.


    After the story ended, Serra came to a conclusion.


    Hm...I think that I''ll just reveal myself to Lilia and her friends as well as my disciple...


    "Finally done!"


    A voice sounded out from behind him.


    He turned to look to find Lilia coming out.


    "Hm? You''re the only out?"


    "Oh. You''re the second one. I''ve just heard from the tester. You''re passed as well."


    The proctor spoke.


    "Oh. Great."


    Lilia looked relieved.


    "What were you doing?"


    "We were just discussing various stories and rumors."


    Serra said and recounted what happened in a summarized form.

 Chapter 53: All passed

    "Oh. How envious. I''d like to hear about it too..."


    Lilia sighed.


    "Well, since your companions aren''t finished yet... Perhaps I can tell you about it some more?"


    The proctor spoke.


    "Wait. There''s not enough time for that. Furthermore, we can''t keep restarting this story after each of our companions pass."


    Serra spoke quickly to stop them.


    "Well... That''s true."


    "Ah... What a pity..."


    Serra consoled Lilia.


    "Don''t worry. After we pass the last trial, I''ll tell you all about it afterwards."


    "Really? Thanks!"


    That reassured Lilia.


    "Well then... How about I tell you a bit about the last trial?"


    The proctor said some important words.


    "The last trial? Is it alright to disclose something like that?"


    "Of course. You''ve already spoken to other teams that both passed and failed, right? Therefore, it''s not really something to worry about. These three trials test one''s abilities and qualification. Even if you know about it beforehand, if you don''t have the capability to succeed then it is pointless."If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    It''s little wonder that those teams willingly spoke and there are records of the various trials.


    Come to think about it, the various sects even went out their way to train and prepare them for the trials...


    They wouldn''t have done that if they didn''t know what kind of trials there were...


    "That''s true..."


    "Now then... The proctor for the third trial is a hot-blooded musclehead."


    "Musclehead?"


    "That''s correct. His trial would likely be fighting against him. That''s the kind of guy he is. Well, there''s a handicap and all... The thing about him is that he favors brute force above all. Fight him with well-coordinated tactics and cunning traps and he''s sure to fall."


    "Understood... We''ll make preparations for it then."


    Lilia responded.


    Serra began to ponder a bit.


    "Hm... A musclehead eh... Well, so long as we avoid a direct clash we should be able to bring him down."


    He spoke.


    "We should discuss this with the others later."


    "I''m out!"


    A cheerful voice spoke.


    "Hm? Aies!"


    "Eh? Big Sis Lilia and Serra!"


    Aies came out of the door and was really excited.


    "How was the trial?"


    "I passed!"


    She shouted with joy.


    "Well done!"


    "Congratulations."


    They praised her.


    "Oh dear? You three are done?"


    "Eh? I''m the last one out?"


    Two voices followed suit.


    "Seileen! Luisa! You both passed?"


    "Naturally."


    Seileen spoke with certainty.


    "Who do you think I am?"


    Luisa spoke with pride.


    "Alright. With this, all five of us passed!"


    Lilia spoke with joy.


    "It''s too early to rejoice. The final trial awaits us."


    Serra interjected.


    "Eh, don''t be a spoilsport Serra!"


    Aies spoke.


    "He''s right though..."


    Then, the proctor spoke.


    "Congratulations. All five of you passed. Proceed to the final trial. I pray you five do well in the tournament."


    "Thank you. We will."


    Lilia spoke.


    "Let''s go!"


    Then, she spoke to her team and they all left.

 Chapter 54: Trial of Ability

    After some preparations, Serra, Lilia and the rest entered the middle door to test their ability.


    "Well now! So a group of girlies arrived eh? Well, this is a feast for my eyes but I ain''t holdin back now, you hear?"


    Upon entering, they see a large man wearing nothing but pants showing off his chest and muscles while wearing a manly smile.


    "Ack!"


    "Ah! This man is showing his chest!"


    "How shameless!"


    Seileen, Aies and Luisa exclaimed.


    Serra just nodded.


    He''s seen many kinds of people...


    In the Higher Realms, there were many eccentric people.


    Muscleheads like this weren''t really a rare sight there.


    Lilia went pale at the sight of this man but she stood strong.


    "Hohoho! I''m Lezner! Proctor of the Hall of Ability and the who''ll be your foe! Any questions!?"Stolen novel; please report.


    He roared.


    Serra raised a hand.


    "How will the test be conducted?"


    "Oho? A man with flowers on both sides!? What a lady-killer! Wahahahahahaha!"


    Instead of answering the question, he made a snarky remark about the questioner instead.


    "..."


    Serra went silent.


    "Wahaha, sorry about that boyo!"


    He laughed it off.


    "Well now, ability is measured by a lot of stuff. Luck, tactics, strategy, techniques, skill, power...etc. But when it comes down to it, it all measures up to ability! In this hall, we test the ability of a team! Pathetic half-hearted tests like the ones in the halls before you can''t truly measure up your true ability! The only truest way is the old-fashioned way! And nothing beats actual combat! So, all of on me at once! Wahahahahaha!"


    He roared.


    "What a muscle-head... I''ve heard rumors as well as intelligence reports saying he''s a musclehead but this is a first for me..."


    Luisa muttered.


    "Uwah..."


    Aies was appalled.


    "Nuff said and done! I''ll wait for you in the next room! Wahahahahahaha!!!"


    Saying so, he entered a door and closed it.


    """................"""


    Leaving a silent group behind.


    "Wow... This is more than the rumors said."


    Seileen spoke.


    "Well, we ARE prepared for this, aren''t we?"


    Luisa said.


    "...We shouldn''t get demoralized like this. Let''s go and put that muscle-for-brains in his place!"


    Lilia shouted.


    """Yeah!"""


    With that, they pushed forward.

 Chapter 54: Sometimes, the simpler it is to understand, the harder it is to do

    Lilia''s team entered the room.


    They find a large circular room where the musclehead was standing at the center.


    "Wahaha... You''ve entered far too early, challengers!"


    He addressed them with a loud laugh.


    "We''ve come to take your test, proctor!"


    Lilia stated confidently.


    "Oho? You don''t mess around and came at me straight? Good! I like that kind of attitude!"


    He said happily.


    "Here''s the deal, challengers!!"


    He took out a red ruby, tied it with a string then placed in around his neck.


    "Simplicity is best. This is your test! Take this red ruby from me! If you can get it within 2 hours, you pass! Come at me all at once!"


    He roared.


    "Tell me when you''re ready."


    He added.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    "Hm... Well, this sounds easy. But what do you guys think?"


    Seileen said.


    "This won''t be that easy naturally. There might be a trick of some sort. Regardless, we should come up with a good strategy."


    Luisa proposed.


    "Strategy? Hmm... How about Aies, Seileen and Lilia attack as the vanguard while Luisa and Serra give support?"


    "That''s a good basic strategy."


    Seileen remarked.


    "Ok, that will be our basic strategy... Here''s how we''ll go..."


    Lilia gathered them and whispered the tactics they''ll use.


    <hr>


    "Ok, we''re all ready!"


    "Oh, good. You didn''t take too long. Let''s start!"


    Lezner roared with delight.


    "Let''s go!"


    All give of them moved swiftly and surrounded him.


    "Oho? Surrounding a stronger opponent eh? Not bad."


    He took a stance and raised his fists.


    Seileen drew her twin blades and attacked his flank.


    The proctor dodged it with ease.


    "Too slow, lass!"


    He laughed.


    Behind him, Aies attacked with her spear while Lilia charged forward with her longsword.


    Seileen regained her stance then launched a swift blow towards the string in time with their attacks.


    "A coordinated attack? Nice try."


    Laughing, he jumped up.


    Leaving the dumbfounded girls to crash into each other.


    """Ack!"""


    As he gazed at the girls tangled together, the man laughed.


    "Haha!!!"


    Luisa fired her bow aiming at the string.


    "Hmph, too easy."


    The man sensed her attack then tried to move sideways to dodge but couldn''t...


    "Hm?"


    He looked to his feet to find it frozen.


    "When did they!?"


    He looked to the side to find Serra smirking at this direction.


    "Cunning brat."


    He laughed the used his fist to strike the arrow and crushed it.


    "Not too shabby."


    He remarked as he used his strenght to break free from Serra''s trap.


    Lilia''s team regrouped as they stared at their foe.


    "A pity. That failed."


    Lilia remarked.


    "This won''t be easy at all... Sometimes, the simpler something is, the harder it is to do."


    Serra said.

 Chapter 55: Fierce battle!

    "I was hoping to finish this early so we''d have time to rest and prepare for the next battles in the tournament but... It won''t be that simple, will it?"


    Lilia spoke with slight regret.


    "Indeed... Well then, let''s keep it up!"


    Luisa replied.


    While they were talking, Seileen and Aies were already in position and were starting their attacks.


    They coordinated their attacks but the proctor dodged them with ease.


    "He''s a muscle-head in terms of personality but his skills and tactics make him a cunning person..."


    Lilia spoke as she observed the proctor''s swift, precise and skilled movements.


    "Well then... Let''s stick to our strategy and go!"


    Lilia spoke with a shout then charged forward.


    "Hm!? So you''ve come back? Heh, three on one at once is good enough to work a sweat haha!"


    He roared.


    "Uwah..."


    Aies muttered at that remark.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Regardless, it didn''t affect her movements as she still launched her attacks timed with Seileen and Lilia.


    These fellow sect disciples had spent a long time with each other and fought in many battles.


    Their coordination is honed through countless hours of training and battles against myriads of foes.


    Luisa fired an arrow above the proctor.


    Serra also threw a ball of ice above him.


    Since he dodged their attacks on land earlier by escaping above, they made it so that there is no path of escape.


    "Not bad!"


    The proctor exclaimed.


    "We''re not idiots who''d fall for the same trick twice!"


    Seileen shouted.


    The proctor jumped above just like last time.


    He met Luisa''s arrow with his fist and crushed it.


    "Haha!"


    Moving quickly, he also punched Serra''s ice ball.


    His fist crushed it easily enough, then water burst out of it and struck his body.


    "Eh?"


    The water striked his face and drenched him.


    Down below, Seileen, Aies and Lilia jumped above and aimed their weapons towards the necklace.


    "Hmph!"


    The proctor made a reverse back-flip and delivered an overhead kick towards Lilia.


    Lilia immediately blocked it by dropping her weapon and blocking it with her arms.


    "Nice move! But you''re open! Seiya!"


    Seileen spoke.


    "Gr! Not bad but I won''t lose yet!"


    The proctor roared.


    Still in midair, the proctor made a loud roar.


    "Urk!" "Ack!"


    This roar stunned Seileen and Aies close to him and they were momentarily stunned.


    Taking advantage of their states, he grabbed their arms and launched them towards Luisa and Serra who were from afar.


    "What!?"


    Luisa and Serra moved accordingly and caught them both.


    "Thanks..."


    "You saved me..."


    The proctor landed properly and made an imposing stance.


    "Hoh... Not bad... But that ain''t enough against me!"


    He made a daunting form that looked as if a mighty wall that would never fall.


    "Such movements... So the reports were true... Urk... Will we fail here?"


    Lilia groaned.


    "No... Not yet... We still have tricks up our sleeves."


    Serra remarked.

 Chapter 56: End

    Soaking wet, the proctor stood tall against the five of them.


    This is actually quite fun. Low level battles like this are actually quite enjoyable. I mean, high-level battles usually end in a few moments rather than drag out like this.


    Serra thought to himself.


    He was enjoying himself limiting his strenght and fighting alongside these kids.


    I should recommend this to the others when I have the time. It''s a good hobby to pass the time.


    He decided to tell his old friends at a later date about this.


    But for now, I need to win this battle. It won''t do at all if we fail here since I won''t be able to enjoy myself more in the tournament.


    "Lilia, please prepare to launch a final coordinated attack. The best way to take him down is to stun him and make him unable to take any action even for a moment. I have the means to do so. When it happens, take that necklace down."


    Lilia''s ears perked up.


    "You do? That''s great!"


    "What do you need to do?"


    Luisa asked.


    "You know that ice ball I launched that had water in it right? I plan to launch a few more and thoroughly drench him. Afterwards, I''ll freeze him. It should be enough to stop him from moving for a few moments."The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Serra explained.


    "Well? How about it?"


    Lilia asked.


    "It''s possible it might work..."


    Luisa spoke.


    "Let''s go."


    Serra said.


    With a nod, they proceeded to go with Serra''s plan.


    Aies already knew the plan since she was present but Seileen did not.


    Lilia and Aies charged forward. Lilia intended to inform Seileen out at front.


    Meanwhile, Serra and Luisa took positions from afar intending to begin their assault soon.


    "We''ve got a plan."


    Lilia spoke to Seileen.


    "Really? I''d like to hear it."


    "We can''t say anything for now, but first, let''s just keep making coordinated attacks."


    "Hm? Got it."


    With that, they continued their assault.


    <hr>


    After several minutes, they were slightly tired.


    "Hahaha... What''s wrong girlies? Trying the same tactic won''t get you far."


    He roared.


    Indeed, they launched several consecutive coordinated attacks like their second assault.


    The proctor dodged it by escaping through an opening or jumping above and striking down the projectiles launched at him.


    During that time, Serra''s ice balls were launched against him several times thoroughly drenching him.


    "This is the time."


    Serra spoke.


    Once more, they took their positions and decided to bring out their all.


    "Oho?"


    The proctor saw the look in their eyes and saw that they were ready to decide things.


    "A showdown is what you want, eh? Bring it!"


    He roared, anticipating the challenge.


    Once more, Seileen, Aies and Lilia surrounded him and attacked.


    "This again? You never learn!"


    He roared, disappointed.


    "This isn''t the same, you musclehead."


    Serra smiled.


    And he unleashed his ability.


    Instantly freezing the water that drenched the proctor.


    "Hm!? I can''t move? It''s cold!"


    He spoke alarmed.


    "Now is the time!"


    They all unleashed their attacks.


    This time, Serra unleashed an icicle strike.


    The proctor watched helpless as their attacks drew near.


    And soon...


    Their attacks cut the rope tying the necklace and the jewel falls to the ground.


    "Not bad. What a cunning trick, lad. So you drenched me so you could freeze the water and stop my movements even for a moment... and yet that was enough. You''ve passed this trial. Well done."


    He proclaimed.

 Chapter 57: Pass

    Lezner laughed as he gazed at the team that beated him.


    "Well done. So those ice balls that drenched me weren''t to tease me or provoke me but were actually you''re key to victory."


    "Of course not. I can''t stand to see you showing off your body brazenly."


    Seileen said.


    "Hahaha, not a fan of muscles, eh?"


    He laughed it off.


    "Well, regardless, you''ve passed this trial. You may participate in the tournament preliminaries. Aside from you, there are 800 teams. So you guys will battle it out this time around to determine the winner."


    "That many? So, 800 multiplied by 5 so 4000 participants?"


    Aies calculated it.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "No, that''s the least amount of members. It doesn''t include the reserve members."


    Luisa corrected her.


    "Oh."


    "Yep. That''s right, lass. If including the reserve members, there are at least 5000-6000. The other teams have their main members and plenty of reserves you see."


    Lezner explained.


    "Well, that doesn''t matter much. Let''s celebrate first and have a good rest."


    Lilia interjected.


    "Yeah!"


    "Whew..."


    "Time for a good rest."


    They bade the proctor farewell then left.


    <hr>


    Back at the inn, Lilia''s team began celebrating and eating.


    "So, what''s our plan for tomorrow?"


    Luisa asked.


    "Eh? Let''s eat and rest first!"


    Aies complained.


    "We can''t waste time. We were already quite late. We need to spend time efficiently."


    Luisa said sternly.


    "She''s right. We should celebrate but we should at least know what we''ll need to do first."


    "For starters, let''s gain information on when the tournaments starts in earnest and gain some intel on the other teams. There are some tough contenders here. Some are especially dangerous. We need to plan accordingly."


    Seileen spoke.


    "That''s indeed correct. Regardless, this is neither the time or place here."


    Lilia concluded the conversation early.


    It wasn''t the time to discuss this as they were in a public area.


    They''ll conclude it later in private.

 Chapter 58: Nightfall

    "Okay. So, what are our plans for tomorrow?"


    All five of them gathered in a private room and began discussion on what they need to do tomorrow.


    "Our first priority should be to gather intel on all the formidable teams and especially dangerous teams and prepare counter-measures against them."


    Seilleen proposed.


    "There''s at least 800 teams participating. That''s too much work. We can''t possible gather enough intel on all of them."


    Serra interjected.


    "Then, what do you propose we do?"


    She retorted.


    "Our first priority should be to gather information on the match-ups. That way, we know who we''d fight."


    "Oh."


    "However, they haven''t released the match-ups yet."


    Luisa spoke.


    "In that case, we should wait. When will they release it?"If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Serra asked.


    "They would need a week after registrations are finished to arrange the match-ups."


    Luisa replied.


    "Then, how about we practice our coordination and tactics while we gather some intel on the strongest teams who are expected to win?"


    Serra proposed.


    "Well, it''s better than just gathering intel on all of them."


    "Speaking of which..."


    Serra recalled something.


    "How will the battles proceed?"


    He asked.


    "Well, the rounds are different each time. They hold a number of matches each day. To ensure things proceed faster, each of the 800 teams will face another team in an elimination round. After the elimination round ends, there should be 400 teams left.  They''ll hold another elimination round turning that number into 200. Afterwards, the 200 are given ranks depending on their performance."


    Luisa explained.


    "Ranks?"


    "Yes, ranks. That''s why some teams go all out in the elimination rounds. The 200 teams are given ranks befitting their strenght and performances. Then, we''re given one month to battle out and determine the final ranking."


    "Final ranking?"


    "Correct. Each team is allowed to challenge another rank ten ranks above them. So, the 200th team can challenge up to the 190th team. If they win, they become the 190th ranked team while the defeated team becomes the 191th team and the others below them move down accordingly."


    "I see..."


    Serra now understood the how the battles would go.


    "Well then, our plans have already been decided. It''s time to rest."


    Lilia proposed.


    "Alright. Let''s go."


    Everyone agreed and left to go their own rooms.


    Serra went to his room but silently left in the night.


    As a precaution, he left a clone that looked exactly like him in there.


    He made it to guard the girls he''s fighting with.


    "It wouldn''t do at all if something happened to them and we wouldn''t be able to fight. I do enjoy myself after all."


    He said to himself and left.

 Chapter 59: Lost in memory

    Serra went out on a stroll.


    He mingled with the crowd


    However, none of them noticed him.


    He was like a faint shadow.


    Even though some people passed by him, they simply passed through him like a ghost.


    They didn''t even stop for a moment nor did they feel anything strange.


    Serra smiled lightly.


    Amusement clearly reflected in his eyes.


    "This is a good city."


    He spoke quietly.


    There was maturity and wisdom in his eyes.


    Serra was quite skilled in acting.


    He could easily hide the wisdom within his eyes with immaturity.


    Otherwise, he would have already been found out earlier.


    "This city was here many years ago... Back then, it wasn''t as peaceful as it was back then."


    Serra remembered the mishap years ago when he suffered greatly and was forced to escape here.


    He was severely injured and unable to muster up much of his own strength.


    Thus, he decided to settle temporarily as a doctor.


    After some years passed, he gained some reputation as a skilled practicioner.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Afterwards, he met Ren and took him in as a disciple.


    He worked as his apprentice and assistant and on off days where they did not do business, he taught him.


    Those days were peaceful and blissful.


    Calm and quiet days despite the chaos in that world.


    It''s a pity that the city was destroyed one day and they were forced to flee.


    It seemed that Ren rebuild this city and chose it as his capital.


    Furthermore, the land where his house once stood was the land where he currently stays.


    "You''re quite sentimental, my old disciple."


    He murmured.


    He gazed through the cities to find a shallow cottage standing.


    And despite not looking through, he knew of who occupied that house.


    Turning his eyes away, he gazed at the other lands.


    They were occupied by people he spent quite some time with.


    They were mere mortals.


    With their fleeting lives, they soon met their ends.


    Dian the mercenary captain who often went to the bar to have fun and fool around.


    He was a frequent customer for him.


    Meka the bar master.


    His wine tasted quite sweet and up to par with his standards.


    Zafra, an eccentric mage who often met up with him to deal with magical ingredients and the like.


    He was often injured in his experiments and he often had to treat him.


    "Those were enjoyable days. I truly enjoyed myself. It''s a pity they''re no longer here... But alas, as one who pursues the path of cultivation, I would eventually have to leave them behind."


    He shook his head as he felt sorrow.


    He had many friends, rivals, enemies and even people who loved him dearly...


    As he continued his path, he was forced to eventually part ways with them.


    Though his heart felt sorrow, he still pressed on.


    "And now this is where I stand..."


    He murmured softly.


    He faintly remembered the names, faces and voices of the ones he once held dear.


    As a cultivator who reached the apex, his memory was flawless.


    Thus, he could easily recall them.


    He then sighed.


    He wished to bring them back.


    But he could not for that goes against the natural order.


    All of them lived their lives to the fullest without regret.


    It would be an insult to bring them back for his own selfish wish.


    And even if he did bring them back, could they stay alive for long?


    "Sometimes... It is better to be an ant trapped within the ground than a dragon who would soar the heavens, looking down on all beneath... The fleeting life of a mortal filled with color... Is sometimes greater than a grand life of immortaily filled with bitterness. But I''m far luckier than most... For the one I love still lives... As well as two brothers who walk the same path as I."


    He let out another sigh.

 Chapter 60: Week in the City

    Morning finally came.


    The entire group gathered downstairs to eat.


    They found Serra alone sitting in a table.


    He was quietly eating his meal.


    "Hm? You''re finally awake."


    He said after noticing them.


    "You''re up early. How long have you been awake?"


    Lilia asked.


    "Around half an hour."


    "Oh. You''re an early riser."


    But it wasn''t that surprising.


    Cultivators spend a large time of day cultivating.


    Thus, they often woke up early to cultivate.


    Morning was a great time to cultivate.


    "Well, let''s get something to eat."


    Seileen spoke.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    All four of them headed to the front to order their meals.


    After choosing their meals, they all returned back to Serra to talk while waiting for their breakfasts.


    "You''re meal is...?"


    Aies looked at Serra''s food.


    His meal was simply eggs and some meat.


    "Isn''t that a bit small?"


    "Not really. I have a small stomach so I eat only small amounts of food."


    Serra said.


    "Oh."


    They chatted for a while until a waitress arrived with their meals.


    They had a rich breakfast with the meat of magical beasts as their food.


    "Isn''t it unrefined for women to eat meat early in the morning?"


    Serra remarked.


    "Isn''t it too feminine for a man to eat so small a meal in the morning?"


    Luisa countered.


    "Haha... you got me there."


    Serra laughed.


    With that, they began to eat their meal in earnest.


    Once they finished, they set out.


    <hr>


    "Well then... what are our plans?"


    Serra asked the group.


    "I need to check my weapons..."


    Seileen said.


    Her weapons needed some repairs done.


    She needed her equipment in peak state.


    "Equipment huh... Will you mind taking ours as well?"


    Lilia asked.


    "Hm. Sure."


    Seileen agreed.


    With that, they passed their equipment to her.


    "As for me, I need to check the intel on our opponents."


    Luisa said.


    Intelligence was a must.


    "Hm. I''ll join you there."


    Lilia said.


    Looks like they''ll be together.


    "So, what are you planning, Aies?"


    "I think I''ll take a look around the auction house to find some techniques and artifacts."


    "Good idea. But are you up to it?"


    Aies was quite childish so Serra wasn''t confident in her.


    "No need to worry. I know what to do."


    She reassured him.


    "Alright... For me, I need to check some ingredients to make potions to prepare for the battles..."


    For a healer, having a variety of ingredients to make potions and treat his companions was a must.


    They didn''t doubt him for it.


    "Alright. Let''s meet up here by lunchtime."


    Lilia concluded the meeting.


    With that, they went their separate ways.

 Chapter 61: Gathering Ingredients

    Serra was alone as he headed to the market.


    He was thinking of strolling around the market first to see what goods the vendors have.


    There were cases were some vendors sell some excellent materials.


    As for potions, he wasn''t interested.


    As a practicioner of medicine who reached the apex of cultivation, his skills in medicine was the highest in the entire realm.


    However, he needed to restrict himself here.


    Last night, he had taken a stroll here in the silence of the night.


    It was peaceful and quiet.


    Very few dared to cause trouble here.


    Furthermore, there were guards patrolling around.


    In contrast to the night, the daytime was very lively.


    There were people here and there going wherever they please.


    The market was bustling as well.


    There were people striking up deals everywhere.


    Some purchased weapons... Some wanted armor... Others various pills and medicine... While the rest desired techniques.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    There were also numerous contestants in the tournament looking around for information.


    It was very lively.


    It struck a great contrast to the silent night.


    Serra enjoyed it.


    The various cultivators in the higher realms lacked this level of passion.


    They were all immortals.


    They''ve long forgotten how interesting the mundane realms are.


    Brimming with passion and life...


    Serra didn''t hide himself this time around as he strolled around.


    He found no need for it.


    He also detected some trouble coming his way but he deftly avoided them.


    Along the way, he saw some good ingredients and purchased them.


    He haggled a bit with the vendors but he did get them at a fair price.


    After a while, he was finished.


    "I''m done with the market... Now, perhaps I''ll see the various shops in the main street?"


    The market may have some good deals but for reliable ones and high-quality ingredients, the main street was the way to go.


    "Right. Let''s head off."


    <hr>


    After some time, Serra arrived at the main street.


    As the place where the major businesses are located, it''s filled to the brim.


    "Hm... Is that...?"


    He spotted one of his companions.


    It was Lilia.


    He headed towards her.


    "Lilia! Are you done with your task?"


    He asked.


    Lilia turned.


    "Oh, Serra. Yes, I am."


    They greeted each and began to chat a bit.


    "Where''s Luisa?"


    He asked about his other companion who Lilia accompanied.


    "Ah, we separated to gather more information. I''m going to gain some information of the various top contenders."


    He nodded.


    "I see."


    While they were discussing, some onlookers were staring at them intently.


    As for why, it''s because Lilia was a beauty.


    As for Serra...


    "Wow... They make a fine painting together..."


    "Indeed... Two beautiful women together make a fine sight."


    "That girl with eyes like sapphire jewels is a calm and serene beauty while the other is a stoic and mature beauty..."


    They were discussing their beautiful appearances.


    ""...""


    As cultivators, they naturally heard them.


    "Let''s go."


    "Agreed."


    They don''t want to stay here any longer.


    Furthermore, Serra was a man!

 Chapter 62: A Tale of Tea

    Lilia took Serra together with her into a cafe.


    It was a rather luxurious cafe with flowery and elegant designs.


    "This place is quite soothing."


    Serra said approvingly.


    Perhaps my old friend would like this cafe as well. He always did love flowers.


    By ''old friend'', he''s obviously referring to one of the four Sovereigns.


    Not knowing his thoughts, Lilia nodded.


    "My master once stayed here. She told me that she frequently visited this cafe in the past."


    Lilia shared.


    "Oh? So you were interested and checked it out?"


    Serra asked intrigued.


    Lilia nodded.


    "Yes. To be honest, my master is a tea lover. She loved the tea brewed here. I''m similar to my master in that regard. So, I was eager to sample it."


    She said casually.


    Serra was taken back.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "Is there something wrong?"


    She asked.


    "No, you just remind me of someone who I used to know."


    "Oh?"


    "That person liked tea as well. He was a sect brother of mine and he raised plants meant to be used for tea often. He was quite a fellow."


    He shared a story of an old friend.


    "Oh. I guess it''s true that there are some cultivators who truly love tea."


    "Indeed. There are some who prefer wine but tea is much more mild and relaxing."


    Serra agreed.


    They begin chatting more on tea and masters who liked tea.


    "When that senior brother of mine became a master, his only criteria for picking a disciple was that they loved tea."


    "Really? What a coincidence, my master almost made that a requirement if only the other masters didn''t stop her."


    "Hahaha... we know quite the eccentric people, don''t we?"


    "Indeed."


    They laughed as they talked more about their companions who preferred tea until a waitress came up.


    "My master recommended the Ice Smile Tea."


    "Oh? What an odd name. I''ll have the same."


    Soon, they received their orders.


    "Well now... Let''s see the tea your master liked."


    Lilia looked on in anticipation.


    They sipped tea at the same time.


    At once, they quieted down.


    Serra spoke first.


    "This tea..."


    "It''s remarkable! What a pleasant cooling taste!"


    Lilia finished.


    "My master was right!"


    "Indeed. This is delicious. I''d like to know the recipe myself."


    Serra nodded.


    Serra has tasted numerous types of tea in the past but this one had a unique flavor to it that rivalled some of the best tea he''s tasted.


    The mundane worlds are truly interesting. I wonder how many other types of tea there are that can''t be found even in the Higher Realms?


    Soon enough, they finished.


    "Truly delicious."


    "It''s worthy of the highest praise."


    They commented.


    "Well then, should we depart?"


    Serra said.


    Lilia nodded.


    "Yes, we still have work to do. Still, even if the tournamanet concludes, I''d still like to visit here in the future."


    "I share the same sentiments. I''ll also visit when I have the opportunity."


    Serra spoke happily.


    With that, they parted.


    They still have plenty of work to do.

 Chapter 63: Shopping in the Main Street

    Serra was humming as he walked towards the main street.


    What good tea! The mundane worlds truly are more interesting than the Higher Realms. I''m shocked to find such a high quality tea in this place.


    He was in a very good mood.


    As he headed into the main street, he spotted a large number of people going in and out.


    He also heard some loud voices.


    "Bastard! This Bloodstone Ore belongs to me!"


    "Scram! Wealth speaks the loudest here! Not the fist! Unless you want to speak to the Winterclaw Guard!?"


    "Do you think that this Iron-Bear Heart is worth enough to offend me!?"


    There were some heated arguments going on here and there.


    However, the law is strictly enforced.


    Although they may be heated, they won''t fight.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Because of their arguments, the various shops hosted auctions for those precious items.


    "It''s a good day to be a merchant..."


    Serra muttered as he saw that sight.


    It''ll be annoying if I''m caught with this rabble... Best to use my ability to get to those shops...


    Serra disappeared from view and those cultivators failed to detect him.


    He swiftly dashed towards the various shops and became visible at areas outside their view so he could just go into the various shops and buy the stuff he needs.


    "I''ll take this..."


    "And this..."


    "Hm... This looks good."


    With his expertise, he immediately found the good ingredients that would prove useful to him and ignored the ones he didn''t need.


    Without a good eye, they would end up buying defective goods and the like cleverly hidden among the good ones.


    There were some shady merchants who were interested in ripping off customers.


    Of course, the various goods were only slighty undervalued or overvalued.


    They preferred to get a profit but didn''t make ridiculous prices so they won''t be held accountable for it.


    Take this Flame Lizard Tail for example, due to the damagers wrought to it, it''s price should just be around 200 gold. But they made it''s price 230 gold instead.


    Even if they''re found out, the customers could only blame themselves for their mistake.


    Regardless, Serra won''t be fooled.


    <hr>


    "Hmm... I''m done for the day. Now, shall I return?"


    Serra carried his bag filled with various ingredients and stored it in his spacial ring.


    "Time to go."


    Serra began heading back to the inn where he would begin concocting various potions for the tournament.


    He''ll check the market for various deals but he''ll only do some checking.


    He believes that he has sufficient potions for the tournament.

 Chapter 64: More rules

    After finishing his work, Serra returned to the inn to rest.


    Of course, he truly didn''t need to rest but he had to put up a show.


    He was acting like his appearance showed after all.


    He stayed in his room to rest.


    While there, he was busy concocting potions.


    He made batches of high quality potions.


    Potions for fatigue, blood lost, energy and various for various aftereffects of combat.


    For example, burns dealt by remnant fire qi or other effects of various techniques.


    Practioners of medicine needed to prepare various medicine for all kinds of events.


    On the battlefield, you needed to be able to determine what the patient''s condition is and the correct medicine to heal it. Furthermore, you need to deliver it immediately in dire conditions.


    Thus, it''s often necessary to make pills and various potions for the various injuries you expect your team may face.


    He didn''t bother using his power to accelerate it and simply made them as he once did in the past.


    Serra recalled some old events in the past.


    "Back then, I used to do this a lot. I was always extremely busy."


    He recalled.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "After arriving here, I''ve remembered a lot of past events didn''t I...? This is just like a trip to memory lane. I remember my old friends back then."


    He remembered a lot of old memories he was quite fond of.


    "I was just like these kids back then. It''s pretty amusing."


    He spent his time concocting medicine while immersed in memories.


    Of course, the medicine were high grade.


    <hr>


    After a while, the others arrived.


    By then, Serra was already finished concocting medicine and was resting.


    "You''re here."


    Serra smiled and passed some medicine to them.


    He only passed the ones that had immediate effect and those that restored their strength in battle.


    "Oh. These are? These medicine are high-grade!"


    Lilia said surprised.


    She wasn''t shocked too badly.


    This level was the average in the tournament.


    Among supporters that is.


    The others eagerly took theirs.


    "Good. With this, we have a good chance of winning!"


    "Hm. There are limits in the amount of potions we could take. But since these are all high-grade potions, it''s fine to take any one of these."


    "Limits?"


    Serra asked.


    "Ah yes... I only explained the main tournament rules. Aside from the main tournament format, there are rules such as limiting the grade of artifacts, potions, seals and other items. There''s a limit to the number of potions one could take. Since the tournament is there to test one''s strength.Not one''s wealth."


    Luisa explained.


    "That makes sense. What''s the limit?"


    "Around 10 potions. For the reference, all potions used by the contenders are intermediate or high grade."


    "I see. We won''t be inferior in this regard then."


    Suddenly, Aies posed a question.


    "Wait. Those limits external strength. What about techniques? Especially forbidden ones."


    "That''s a good question."


    Luisa nodded.


    "Since they''re all a part of one''s strength, there''s no limit. Learning techniques depend on one''s comprehension even if one has a good master. But forbidden techniques are forbidden. Especially those that aim to kill or deal great damage to oneself. All the participants are the cream of the crop and are the next generation. This tournament also serves as a sparring competition so that the current generation can test themselves against the best of the world."


    She explained.


    "So killing and crippling the opponent is forbidden?"


    "Yes. The referee would stop it immediately. The people here would eventually be the pillars of their organizations. If something happens to them, it would be a great loss for those involved. Thus, it''s been banned."

 Chapter 65: Who to watch out for

    "The value of life is truly great. Furthermore, the Founder has also expressed that he does not wish that any of the heroes of this generation be lost for the sake of a mere tournament."


    Everyone present except Serra nodded.


    That little boy? I suppose that''s natural... He''s truly matured.


    Serra thought to himself.


    "That aside, let''s discuss the various teams that are a threat to us. We can''t aim for the highest point. There are several teams who are truly monstrous and are beyond our abilities."


    Everyone present nodded heavily.


    They know their abilities and their limits well.


    It would be foolish to push themselves.


    "At our best... We might be able to achieve victory up to rank 10 if we persevere. For that goal, we need to know our enemies well."


    Luisa grabbed a few crystals.


    "These crystals hold the images of the top 10 teams. We''re aiming for only one of them. As for the rest, it''s best for us to simply forfeit the moment we encounter them."


    Aies raised her hand.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Eh? Isn''t that too cowardly? Shouldn''t we put up a bit of a fight?"


    "It''s not that simple. Furthermore, we would just be wasting away our strength should we fight. It''s better to forfeit and save our strength for the battles that actually count."


    Lilia said.


    "Sigh... Fine."


    Aies reluctantly agreed.


    "First is the Steel Fist Temple. They''re a team that consists of four males. One female serving as the captain and three reserves. The reserves as first-rate fighters and the five main team members are considered the best fighters of their team. All five of them are skilled in physical attacks and possess bodies as tough as steel. It''s better to forfeit against them."


    "Wait. Even the female captain? She''s probably an ogre..."


    Seileen spoke.


    "Er... Not really. Here."


    Luisa activated a crystal and showed seven muscular guys as well as one tanned yet voluptuous figure.


    "Eh!?"


    Aies, Seileen and Serra stared in shock.


    "She''s considered the strongest among them."


    Luisa said.


    "As for her personality?"


    Serra asked.


    "According to intel... She''s like a big sister figure."


    "Oh."


    Silence spread.


    "A flower blooming in a rugged dessert among the weeds..."


    Lilia spoke.


    ...


    "Moving on."


    Luisa coughed.


    "Then, here''s another team. Burning Heaven Sect."


    The crystal revealed three males and two females. The men were quite handsome and arrogant while the woman were just as fiery as their figures. They all wore red robes with a sun emblem.


    "The captain is the man in the middle of the three."


    "I see..."


    Luisa then explained their abilities.


    <hr>


    After finishing, they began reading about the other 9 teams they should avoid.


    They listed down their members, appearances and their names.


    After finishing, they then began to look at the list of enemies they''ll need to fight.


    They''re their opponents. They can''t avoid them and will need to face them.


    Thus, they paid great attention to them.


    "According to my intel... To get to 10th place, we''ll need to face the other 41 teams. But there are only 13 teams we need to watch out for."


    Luisa announced.

 Chapter 66: 13 Teams

    Luisa then brought out thirteen crystals.


    She tapped each one to reveal the appearances of various youths.


    All of them looked either cold, prideful, excited or tranquil.


    They each had various expressions... But one thing in common was their confidence that they showed through their faces.


    "Our sect... Has prepared very well for this tournament. Though there may have been a mishap... Our junior sister will eventually return here along with a few others as our reserves. The rest might be aiming for top 50... But our goal is top 10!"


    Luisa declared.


    The rest nodded.


    Serra watched rather interested.


    "Serra... We are grateful for your timely appearance. We may not know your origins but will you lend us your strength in this battle?"


    Lilia asked Serra.


    "I just joined on a whim since I''m interested in testing my skills... Since you''re aiming for the top, then that means I''ll have better opportunities. The opportunity to test myself against the very best of this generation. I couldn''t be more grateful."


    Serra said.


    What he said wasn''t exactly a lie.


    It''s true that he intended to test the strength of the current generation.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    He was interested in this world after all.


    The rest looked happy that he was intending to help.


    "We''re grateful. Still, don''t be worried. We have a few reserves so you don''t need to force the impossible."


    Lilia said gratefully.


    "Now then... Back to the thirteen teams... I''ll go from the weakest to the strongest, is that agreeable?"


    Luisa asked.


    "No objections."


    Lilia spoke on behalf of the group.


    Luisa nodded.


    "The thirteen teams we need to be careful against are... Iron Turtle, White Snake, Crimson Triangle, Blue Chain, Gray Dust, Iron Snake, Seven Bandits, Venom Fog, Snowleaf Valley, Iceridge Temple, Drake Valley, Storm Temple and Shadow Fall."


    Luisa listed them down.


    "Seven Bandits is the only one that''s not from these sects. Apparently, they''re wandering cultivators who were former disciples of various schools. They became bandits in the chaotic areas and have since returned here."


    Aies raised her hand.


    "Wait. They''re allowing bandits to participate?"


    "Yes. They have the necessary qualifications. Thus, they have the right to participate. Furthermore, while they may have been bandits, they only raided other bandits."


    At this, the rest had odd expressions on their faces.


    "Wait... Raided other bandits?"


    "Yes. They didn''t discard their pride as former disciples. Thus, they raided and looted other bandits. They even saved other cultivators attacked by bandits. Thus... While they may have lived as bandits there, they only plundered other bandits. They''re quite famous."


    Luisa said in praise.


    "The Seven Bandits may be our toughest opponents. The chaotic areas are areas that are not governed by anyone. It''s a chaotic area filled with fugitives and outlaws. It also serves as a training ground for various disciples to hone themselves in life and death combat. Those seven fought countless battles and are fierce warriors. They may be the most difficult opponents since they''re much more used to human opponents."


    Everyone was alarmed.


    "Those who hone their skills in battle are the strongest. Their mettle is tested by blood and steel. The others may have had their fair share of battle... But the chaotic areas are places where blood is spilled daily. Corpses pile like mountains and rivers flow like blood... Any who managed to live there and return alive is a fearsome foe to be sure of. Usually... Only adults are able to go there. If they''re the same age as us and managed to go there and return..."


    She trailed off.


    Everyone looked solemn.

 Chapter 67; Chaotic Areas

    "Speaking of which... I haven''t heard of these Chaotic Areas in detail. Would you mind explaining them?"


    Serra asked curiously.


    "You don''t know?"


    Lilia asked surprised.


    "Yes. It''s my first time hearing of them."


    He nodded.


    "Well, that''s not too surprising. Not many are eager to go to that place so only older people may know about it."


    Lilia sighed.


    "If this is the case, then we''ll take our leave."


    Luisa spoke.


    Seileen and Aies nodded.


    "Yes. We have some things we want to check out."


    "I''m going to sleep now..."


    They all took their leave.


    Lilia sighed.


    "As sect disciples, they alredy know about the Chaotic Areas."This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    Lilia explained to Serra.


    "Oh."


    Since they know, there''s no point in listening.


    <hr>


    "Well then... There''s an old saying. Without conflict, there is no progress. The meaning here is that if there''s nothing to fight, progress will grow stagnant. The Founder knew that, therefore, he created the Chaotic Areas. Places filled with conflict."


    Lilia began explaining things to Serra.


    "Without conflict, there''s no progress? True. Without a sense of crisis, there would be no purpose in attaining strength. The Founder feared that a disaster would one day come and if there is too much peace, the various heroes would be complacent. Therefore, when calamity strikes, there would be no means to prevent it."


    Serra nodded in understanding.


    "That''s right. Furthermore, to become Sect Masters or High Ranking Elders, they need to gain some accomplishments in the Chaotic Areas. Also... There''s something else to worry about there."


    "What?"


    "The Magical Beasts."


    Lilia said seriously.


    "Hm?"


    "You see. The Magical Beasts here, their growth is restricted so they don''t pose a threat to humans. But the ones in the Chaotic Areas... They''re growth isn''t restricted so some very powerful Magical Beasts lurk there. A paradise of beasts."


    A surprised look appeared in Serra''s expression.


    "There are a total of 12 Chaotic Areas. The most famous ones are... Shadow Abyss... Kieros Ocean... and Hell Volcano Range. These three are the most dangerous. The Shadow Abyss has many notorius criminals lurking there... Kieros Ocean has the most powerful magical beasts lurking in the depths of the ocean while Hell Volcano Range is pretty much uninhabitable by humans due to the temperature."


    Lilia explained.


    "The other areas are also dangerous but these three possess a danger so great that they''re known as the True Chaotic Areas. These Chaotic Areas are dangerous. There are numerous deaths reported each year of promising youths and heroes. However... The Chaotic Areas are unexplored lands. Thus, they''re rich in opportunities and treasures. That''s why, despite the danger, countless individuals come to test their luck and fortune."

 Chapter 68: Tournament Start

    Serra listened intently.


    How amusing... So, he thought that far? If so, he must''ve anticipated the time when he would have to leave or that something would happen to him. He knows it himself that he only rose through the conflict and became such an overlord of his generation because of the chaos and war.


    He thought to himself.


    Conflict may give birth to tragedy, deaths and despair, but also gives birth to hope.


    Along with the rise of new heroes.


    Only heroes who faced adversity could hope to rise to greatness.


    After all, a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.


    Isn''t that so for me?


    "Well then, let''s end it here and rest. We should make preparations for the tournament."


    Lilia said then left through the door.


    "Hm. This tournament... I hope it''s interesting."


    <hr>


    After that, days passed.


    Lilia and the rest gathered information and prepared for the tournament.


    Serra prepared potions and various medicinal pills for the team.


    Of course, he stayed within the limits he set on himself.


    It wouldn''t do at all to go beyond them.


    That would break the balance of the game.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    Finally, the day of the tournament would start would officially begin.


    An announcement was released throughout the city.


    "All participants of the tournament are to head to the tournament grounds before noon immediately! Any team not present before the start will be removed from the tournament!"


    The various teams were alerted.


    At once, they stopped whatever they were doing and headed to the tournament grounds.


    They gathered together and moved.


    There were a myriad of expressions gathered on their faces.


    Some were worried.


    Some were excited.


    While others showed confidents expressions as they moved along.


    Regardless, none of them held fear whatsoever.


    They all had confidence in themselves and aimed for glory.


    "Lilia!"


    Luisa also heard the announcement and immediately went to find the rest.


    She immediately went to the inn.


    "Luisa! You heard the announcement?"


    Lilia said.


    Luisa nodded.


    "Where are the rest?"


    She asked.


    "They''re should be gathering here."


    Footsteps were heard.


    Serra and Aies came down.


    "It''s finally time!"


    Aies excitedly claimed.


    "So it is."


    Serra nodded.


    "Let''s go then."


    "Wait. Seileen isn''t here yet."


    Lilia stopped them.


    "What? Where is she?"


    "She should still be at the shops looking at weapons."


    Aies spoke impatiently while Serra remembered where she went.


    "There''s no way she didn''t hear the announcement. Let''s wait a bit."


    Lilia dissuaded them.


    Aies pouted but calmed down.


    Serra merely nodded in understanding.


    In that moment...


    "I''m here!"


    Seileen came bursting in.


    She was sweating.


    She must''ve rushed here immediately.


    "I came here immediately after I heard!"


    "Since we''re all here. Let''s go."


    Lilia spoke.


    With a nod, everyone left.


    <hr>


    At the tournament grounds.


    It was a grand sight.


    There were thousands of people.


    It was literally a sea of people.


    Furthermore, all of them were cultivators!


    There plenty of grand characters who ruled as overlords of their regions.


    Powerful cultivators rarely seen were as plentiful as grass here.


    They were all respectfully sitting in their respective seats.


    Waiting patiently for the tournament.


    Down below, there were a few thousand youths participating in the tournament.


    They were wearing proud and excited expressions.


    None were arrogant.


    All present understood that everyone present here were their peers and were by no means easy foes.


    They couldn''t allow themselves to be the slightest bit arrogant.

 Chapter 69: Opening Remarks

    All present were the cream of the crop.


    The best of their generation in their regions.


    Thus, they naturally had the right to be arrogant, yet here, they could not.


    It''s not that they didn''t want to, rather they couldn''t afford to.


    For the slightest bit of carelessness can easily result in their defeat.


    Time passed on as all the remaining teams finally gathered.


    Serra''s team had also arrived.


    "Hm... This is a grand gathering."


    Lilia spoke solemnly.


    The rest nodded.


    "It''s a pity that our reinforcements couldn''t arrive in time."


    Luisa noted.


    "True. It would have eased the pressure."


    Seileen said with a laugh.


    "They''ll definitely be fuming has they known it would be just as grand as the elders said."


    Aies laughed playfully.


    Serra merely smiled.


    Haha... Apparently, this world is far more advanced than my own world... Then again, the benefits of a united world is that the talents of various fields could access each other''s knowledge and combine it with theirs. After the unification of the world, this world entered a golden age in terms of technology.


    He thought as he remembered his own world.


    When I return... I''ll have to act personally and hasten the advance of my world.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    Just as Serra was thinking of improving is world, the noise suddenly quieted down.


    In the main platform, an aged old man walked forward.


    He had long white hair and a long white beard.


    He was truly aged and ancient yet he seemed to emanate immense power.


    Despite his wrinkled face, his eyes held a strong light, brimming with life.


    All present stared at him in excitement, showing awe, reverence and respect.


    The Founder, Ren.


    The conqueror who united the entire world as one and raised a mighty empire that held the entire world in it''s sway.


    As those who live in this world, they couldn''t help but feel respect and curiosity towards the true king of the world.


    Serra was silent as he gazed at his old disciple who rose to prominence.


    Though he seemed aged, he still saw the smiling face of the boy who used to help him around.


    "Master, how should we handle todays work?"


    "This fish is so delicious! Your cooking is so much better than that stinking chef! Shouldn''t we own a restaurant instead of a pharmacy?"


    "Master, Damian is looking for you again. He got injured in a fight earlier... Also, it''s definitely not my fault!"


    And, he remembered his eyes the time they separated.


    "Master... Will you return here one day? Then I''ll wait for you. When you return here, I''ll end the chaos and become an emperor! By then, there would be no need for war! I won''t cry. After all, I''m a man. Isn''t that what you taught me?"


    Such strong will along with a strong light resided within those eyes.


    You''ve truly grown. Ren.


    He thought.


    As he gazed at him, he made sure to hide himself well.


    He made himself seem ordinary.


    Ren, the true ruler of the world, gazed at the teams participating with profound eyes.


    "It''s been many long years since the chaotic war that engulfed the world ended... And many years since this first tournament began. This tournament holds immense value not only for your future but also for the empire and our very world."


    His words shook the hearts of all who listened except one person.


    "Each tournament, there would be numerous talented youths. Dazzling figures who are destined to lead this world one day. Such figures are like rocks. Gold and jewels are hidden within stone and sand. Only with pressure could they possibly truly shine."


    Everyone listened as emotions welled up in their eyes.


    "And this tournament is that pressure. Through this tournament, I hope many of you present will ultimately shine. Prove to me that you''re not rusted rock destined to fade into dust but jewels of the kingdom that will continue to shine for ages!"


    His voice shook the heavens as numerous roars came out from the hearts of all present.


    Amidst the thunderous cheers, Ren simply nodded calmly.


    "Excellent! You all symbolize the hope of this empire, nay, the entire world! Let the tournament begin!"


    With that, the opening remarks finally ended.

 Chapter 70: Lezner appears

    As the opening ceremony ended, all the teams exited the area.


    They were all divided into four groups.


    Red Phoenix.


    Blue Dragon.


    Green Turtle.


    White Tiger.


    Each team will randomly face off against a team from the other groups but will not face anyone in their group. This is a different format that was decided by various seniors.


    Serra wanted to ask some questions but it wasn''t the proper time to ask.


    Each team were then asked to draw lots.


    Lilia came to draw a lot as the leader of the team.


    The others had no words against it but according to Aies, it was because she was the luckiest of the group.


    The other three... were simply put, quite unlucky or merely average.


    The unlucky one was actually Luisa.


    She merely nodded to that assessment.


    So, with regards to position or luck,Lilia was chosen to represent them as the one to draw a number.


    The number Lilia drew was...


    436.


    Lilia then returned.


    "436? I''m not sure if it''s lucky or unlucky but time will tell."


    Luisa evaluated.


    "I''m sure that it''ll be lucky. Lilia being chosen as the leader so she could draw a lot was actually a factor in her being determined as the leader."


    Seileen added.


    Serra looked surprised.


    He turned to Lilia.


    Lilia wryly explained.


    "While I may be the leader... Luisa has great strategies and is more composed than I am so certain situations, they listen to her. No me."


    Serra stared at Lilia.


    "They decided the important role of leader... because of luck?"


    He asked increduously.


    "It''s not all luck."


    Luisa said.


    "Lilia actually has talents in leadership but she''s quite bold. In the beginning, she was quite reckless but after some time, her talents bloomed so she became leader."


    Seileen added.


    "Actually, Lilia is more bold and brave and is more popular than Luisa. The most critical factor is actually luck. You see, we held an internal competion to decide who should compete. The process of determining who fights who is determined by drawing lots."You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Seileen stopped there.


    "And in that tournament... Luisa had the ill luck of fighting three top contenders all the way while Lilia only had to deal with weaker ones. That luck... made the elders name Lilia leader while Luisa the vice-leader. Also, it''s in consideration of her victory."


    It was fairly reasonable.


    However, given Luisa''s strength and intellect, she would be the leader while Lilia the vice-leader but her luck made the elders reconsider. They thought that she''d be unlucky enought to get the top contender as the enemy and result in an early defeat.


    Furthermore, Lila did possess leadership qualities that influenced the final decision.


    Either way, Lilia had actual ability to back things up.


    "I understand. That''s a rather unique way to determine the leader. Regardless of their actual strength. So, who are we facing?"


    Serra understood then shifted the topic to more meaningful things at hand.


    The rest understood that while Luisa accepted this, she was still feeling bitter about the result thus they wisely chose not to speak more of the event than needed to make Serra understand.


    Even Aies kept silent despite her playful nature.


    Lilia followed suite after Serra and spoke.


    "I''m not certain... Still, we should receive something soon..."


    A large shadow of a muscular man appeared behind her.


    "Hey girlies! It hasn''t been too long hasn''t it? Remember me?"


    Standing half-naked without his top clothing revealing his large muscular chest, was Lezner.


    The proctor they fought sometime ago.


    Lilia turned around and upon seeing that muscular brute''s flesh closely, she made a simple reaction purely out of disgust.


    She screamed loudly drawing some curious looks and said in a loud voice that made even Lezner dumbfounded...


    "AH! PERVERTED EXHIBITIONIST!!!"


    Panicking greatly, she drew her weapon and attacked.


    ................................


    After some time, she calmed down.


    During the time she attacked, another supervisor appeared.


    A tanned lady with a very beautiful figure.


    Upon arrival, she instantly attacked Lezner.


    With an expression of utmost fury on her face,


    "YOU DAMM LOWLIFE LECHER! DIE!"


    "Wait! Listen to me! It''s a misunderstanding!"


    "What misunderstanding!? I just saw you attempt to sexually harass a minor in front of me and you even stripped your clothes! What nonsense are you muttering in front of me!?"


    While talking, she kept attacking furiously.


    The women present looked at him with scorn while some men looked at him in disgust.


    "Wow. This pervert attempted to rape a girl during the tournament right here?"


    "What a lowlife. It''s rare to see such a blissful moment when someone attempts to make trouble at the tournament. Let''s go see how they''ll deal with this one."


    "You''re right. Seeing a pervert receive proper judgement is a satisfying thing to see."


    They sneered as they watched on.


    "Wait! I''m a supervisor too! I have proof! Here''s my medallion!"


    He immediately showed a gold medallion with a green sword and shield emblem engraved on it.


    With that, the lady stopped attacking but still looked at him coldly.


    "I see... You actually abuse the authority given to you to sexually harass a girl then?"


    "That''s not it!"


    Lezner cried out.


    "Please wait... It''s like this..."


    Lilia calmed down and explained.


    Upon hearing her explanation, she then looked at Lezner again.


    Just as she was about to speak, a voice came over.


    "What''s going on here? I heard that there was a fight and a pervert appeared."


    Several elders wearing gray robes appeared.


    Giving out a sigh, she rougly explained the situation.


    An elder wearing a monocle looked at Lilia then Lezner.


    "I see... Sigh. Lezner, I keep telling you to wear a robe properly during these kinds of events but you still didin''t listen. Aria, this is Lezner. He''s genuinely a proctor here but he''s rather eccentric. There will be no punishments for either party as this is partly Lezner''s fault for not showing the proper decorum as a proctor."


    At that, Lezner laughed while the robed elders merely glared at him.


    The crowd dispersed upon hearing those words.


    "You disgraceful musclehead... This isn''t even the first time it happened..."


    That elder muttered.


    Lezner just laughed wryly to that.


    The elders left along with that woman but before that, she gave Lezner a glare and said to Lilia:


    "If this pervert actually molests you, simply make a report to me later and I''ll personally castrate this pervert for you."


    As a respected elder and as a woman, she also viewed Lezner who brazenly reveals his chest as a pervert in this tournament.


    Thus, she naturally stood on Lilia''s side.


    "Thank you senior."


    Lilia gratefully said.


    Lezner merely rolled his eyes at that exchange.


    On the other hand, Serra and the rest merely nodded in affirmation.


    Lezner seemed like a muscle-head ruffian so they couldn''t help but nod their heads.

 Chapter 71: Participants Crystal

    Lezner glared at Lilia while the latter merely rolled her eyes at him.


    "Sigh... Little girl, why did you have to stir up trouble for me...?"


    He could already see trouble coming right at him later when his superior would question him.


    "Who asked you to appear half-naked behind me? If I didn''t think you''re some pervert with ill intentions then I''d be a dunce now, wouldn''t I?"


    This beautiful logic left the former speechless.


    "What''s wrong with showing off my manliness to the world?"


    He spoke with self-righteousness.


    "Reveal those disgusting muscles to the world? Only nudists have that kind of logic! And we don¡¯t take kindly to nudists!"


    Luisa interjected.


    "That''s true. Anyone would freak out when a brute appears behind them half-naked."


    Serra spoke with conviction.


    "To my memory, only rapists and the like did such a thing."


    Seileen added with words of contempt


    "Especially highway bandits."


    Aies added thoughtfully.


    Lezner stared at the five of them looking rather dumbfounded.


    This always happens... But why... My brothers always say that this is the way of men. Could it be that I was mistaken?


    He fell into deep thought.


    "Senior, that kind of thinking and logic is meant for barbarians. Not cultured people. If you''re in your tribe then this is acceptable as it is the custom but not in the city. Please follow our customs."


    Lilia spoke respectfully.


    Lezner had a blank look in his face.


    "Great... I''ve heard all sorts of words and experienced all sorts of treatment but being treated as a pervert then a barbarian is a first even for me..."


    If you''ve experienced this so many times before then why didn''t you listen to them and start wearing proper clothes...


    They all thought in their hearts quietly.


    Even the bystanders who were just listening in felt the same way.


    They all stared at Lezner with a weird expression on their faces.


    Lezner felt very uncomfortable and began coughing.


    The stares of so many people hurt.


    He thought he''s used to it but apparently not.


    He''ll have to start wearing them properly later on and only show off his manliness in crucial times.


    ...Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    "So, senior, why were you looking for us?"


    Lilia spoke as the leader of the group.


    "I became a supervisor of the event and came to do my job."


    Lezner explained.


    Although he was a muscle freak and had many perverse hobbies, he was a good and smart person.


    He was also quite magnanimous.


    As a man, he could easily brush aside this treatment and misunderstanding and not let it affect him.


    "I was an elder handling the trials or tests  but now that the tournament officially started, my duties were finished. Anyways... Your number drawn was #436 correct?"


    Lezner asked Lilia.


    "Yes, senior."


    She bowed respectfully.


    Although she did act a bit disrespectful earlier, that was his main fault and elders were not allowed to make trouble for the participants to ensure fairness.


    Anyone who violated this rule was severely punished.


    "Good. Here. Take this."


    He passed a blue ball to Lilia.


    "Senior, this is?"


    It was a blue crystal ball that shined blue.


    Lilia accepted it and asked politely.


    "This blue ball is known as the Participant''s Crystal. It functions as the ID identifying your team as legitimate participants. You need this to enter the arena afterwards."


    He explained it''s functions.


    "The important thing is, that blue ball would shine brightly for a bit soon and a number would appear in your crystal. This number is the opposing team''s ID number. Vice versa, their crystal would show your number as well. Thus, both teams know who they face."


    This made Luisa and Lilia feel thoughtful.


    "I never heard about this from my sect master."


    Lilia spoke.


    "That''s natural. This was recently created and this is the first time it''s being used. It''s natural you don''t know."


    The others felt a bit apprehensive hearing that.


    Seeing their doubtful faces, Lezner hurriedly assured them.


    "Don''t worry. It''s been tested perfectly well and it''s certain that there would be no mishaps or cheating involved."


    At that, their faces lit up.


    "I see... So, when would the match start?"


    Lilia asked.


    "Hm. About that, the time when the arena would be open would be morning until night falls. Therefore, in that time, you should be prepared for battle. When you''re ball shines, you have to head to the arena before an hour passes or you''re disqualified. There are only two battles maximum per team. You''re given an hour before the time comes that your match starts so that''s plenty time to prepare and get ready."


    He explained things further.


    Luisa felt silent.


    She was contemplating something.


    "Then senior... what if some team attacks us or hires someone to make trouble with us?"


    "Any team who does so will be disqualified. However, you need to be a bit more prepared. There are some teams who simply sow some chaos and ensure that other team fails to arrive by some disturbance but can''t be blamed for it. It''s not really that surprising."


    Lezner told them.


    Indeed, there are some vile schemers in their teams or old folks behind some teams who wish for their victory.


    "The best precaution is to be careful and wary of others. You also need to arrive very early to avoid the worst-case scenario."


    Lezner warned them.


    If someone pays someone to attack them, simply capture those fellows and the guards will interrogate them and ensure the punishment of the team responsible.


    Of course, you have to ensure that they''re still alive.


    Some assassins prepare means to take their own life and ensure the secret of their clients.


    The worst cases are those who simply make disturbances that delay teams.


    Because of their nature, it''s hard to pinpoint a crime on them and have them disqualified.


    Helpless, the management can only advise the other teams.


    After all, if they fail to prepare even after all that, they''re simply too careless and stupid.


    "Since that''s all. I''ll go now."


    Lezner waved at them and left quickly.


    Most likely to get some proper clothing.


    Not paying that much attention to him, Luisa gathered the group together.


    ¡°Those warnings aren¡¯t there for show. We should gather intelligence later. Which teams hold which number and which teams are prone to use such tactics.¡±


    She said.


    ¡°Eh. That¡¯s a pain. Can¡¯t we report those who do such things?¡±


    Aies complained.


    ¡°That won¡¯t work.¡±


    Lilia said with a bitter smile.


    ¡°The really crafty ones would simply pay people to delay you or such things. As for physically harming you or poisons¡­ They¡¯re the ones that would infuriate the guards. So, they won¡¯t use it. Rather, would the guards detain someone simply because they made a road jam and delayed a certain team?¡±


    Of course not.


    ¡°It would be the fault of that team for not arriving early. Tardiness is a sin here.¡±


    Lilia concluded.


    ¡°On a side note, let¡¯s also study the kind of tricks other teams pulled here.¡±


    Aies said thoughtfully.


    ¡°That won¡¯t work. This is the first time this was tried so there are no precedents.¡±


    Serra rejected such a thought.


    ¡°¡­Let¡¯s just prepare everything we could to prevent such a thing.¡±


    Lilia said.


    The rest agreed then left.


    There are matches to be fought presently but they¡¯re not too interested.


    They still stayed for a bit though in case they would get called but when night began to fall and the crystal failed to glow, they all went back to the inn.

 Chapter 72: Food

    After arriving home, they all gathered at the inn as always to discuss their strategy.


    At once, we began to prepare.


    "What Aies said about reading up past incidents and forming counters against them isn''t valid since this is the first time they''re trying this. There might be traps or plots that we are in the dark."


    Luisa stated calmly.


    "Nevertheless, I have faith that we can make precautions to avoid most of them. So long as we prepare for them well... We can face our opponents without any of their tricks tiring us or reducing our combat ability. Still, we can''t afford to treat this nonchalantly."


    She then declared some rules we should abide with to avoid any incident.


    <ol>


    <li>Never stay out late.</li>


    <li>Don''t go outside without a companion or two.</li>


    <li>During the time when battles can arise, make sure to stay within the inn.</li>


    <li>Be at peak state and be alert at all times especially outside.</li>


    <li>Be careful at what you eat and test it for drugs or poisons.</li>


    <li>Arrive early in time should a match start.</li>


    <li>Be within distance where you can be contacted immediately.</li>


    <li>All members are responsible for their own training and preparations.</li>


    </ol>


    She listed them out calmly.


    All present read them carefully.


    "Later on, I''ll go gather research intel on similar tournament formats and any plots or schemes that were used... I probably won''t gather them easily if I go at the usual areas... Lilia, Seileen, you two will assist me with that task afterwards."


    Luisa crossed her arms and began to think as she called out to them.


    "Understood."


    "Serra and Aies will be left out for now then."


    The two nodded to show their understanding.


    "In that case, I''ll need to gather food for us then. I''ll go with Aes."


    Serra proposed.


    "Hm? Why?"


    "Good idea. We''ll go with it."


    Aies was curious why they need to buy food when the inn allows them to order food while Luisa allowed it.


    "The food the inn prepared might get drugged or poisoned so it''s best to prepare our own food."Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    Seileen kindly explained.


    "Wait. There''s an issue we need to address before that."


    Lilia suddenly became serious.


    "Eh? What issue?"


    Aies asked curiously.


    The rest were puzzled why she suddenly went serious.


    "The issue is... Who will be the one to cook?"


    The rest except for Serra who tilted his head remained silent.


    "Ah right..."


    "Who can... cook among us...?""


    "..."


    The girls understood their predicament.


    "Wait a second. You four can''t cook? Then how did you travel here at this time?"


    Serra asked surprised.


    "Actually... Our support, Alina, was our cook. The four of us... Can''t really make edible food."


    Lilia explained in a low voice.


    "...I see... Then, I''ll handle it."


    Serra announced.


    I''m not really fond of foul disgusting food. Despite how I look, I''m quite skilled in cooking.


    Serra thought to himself silently.


    "That''s great."


    Everyone heaved a sigh of relief.


    Serra''s importance rose up greatly.


    "Speaking of which... You all didn''t really even try to learn?"


    Serra posed his question.


    The four looked bitter and averted their eyes.


    After a period of silence, Seileen spoke for the others.


    "You see... Aies is too clumsy and childish and didn''t bother learning. I accidentally poisoned my master once when I cooked for him and was banned from cooking while the other two... Well..."


    She was hesitant to tell about it.


    "Lilia destroyed the kitchen somehow while Luisa made poisoned food that killed a few dozen rogue bandits that raided us as well as murdered a few Magical Beasts. Her cooking is on the level of a weapon and though it saved our lives, we don''t have the courage to wager our lives in tasting her dishes that killed bandits and beasts."


    Aies concluded.


    The trio fell silent.


    "...I see that I''ll ask Aies to help me cook. You three should never take a step into the kitchen then."


    Serra spoke gravely to protect their lives.


    The trio smiled at him.


    Even they understood how destructive their cooking is and that the old saying that the kitchen is the woman''s battlefield isn''t always true.


    Especially since their cooking can be classified as weapons and that one among them actually used it to kill people.


    Even Aies nodded her head seriously.


    Which made Serra wonder how serious the events were and was tempted to used his abilities to reverse the flow of time and see what events came to pass.


    Incidentally, the bad taste numbed the taste buds of the unlucky victims and made them faint.


    The poison was actually very light and while dangerous, you can simply cultivate and force the poison out.


    Unfortunately, the taste made them faint which didn''t give them enough time to do so and thus died.


    With that, the discussion concluded and they all called it a night.


    ...................


    Next morning, all five of them stood at the door.


    They split into two groups.


    Aies and Serra.


    Luisa, Seileen and Lilia.


    "We all understand what we have to do?"


    Luisa asked them.


    They all nodded.


    "No more words are needed. Serra, you and Aies should finish quickly enough. Stay at the inn and prepare the food. We''ll handle intel while you two handle food. Our tasks are split but are equally important."


    With that, the two groups separated and went off to different areas.


    On the topic of breakfast, they still had food from the inn.


    They concluded that it''s too early for anyone to attempt to plot against them given their reputation and that they aren''t too famous.


    Their sect isn''t famous for its strength as well so they believed it was safe for the moment.


    Also, they needed to hurry.


    Aies and Serra would arrive soon while the other three were at the library.


    Should their match be announced, they would rush to the inn and head to the arena with the two.


    So, they needed to hurry.

 Chapter 73: First match

    Serra and Aies were heading back to the inn.


    On the way, they were carrying some heavy bags.


    There were two pots and a pan as well as a ladle.


    That only made up for a small quantity though.


    The vast majority was fish, vegetables, meat and various seasonings.


    "This should suffice."


    Serra said as they were heading back to the inn.


    "Yup. We just bought some regular cattle meat though. Why not magical beast meat?"


    Aies curiously asked.


    "Magical beast meat has some side-effects if you''re type isn''t compatible and magical beast meat is a bit difficult to cook."


    Serra explained.


    "Oh."


    Aies was childish but she wasn''t an idiot. She understood it easily enough.


    "I wonder how the rest are doing."


    Aies thought about the rest of their companions.


    "They should still be at it. We''ve only spent an hour or so purchasing cooking tools and ingredients so we should be earlier than them."


    Serra replied lightly.


    Soon enough, they see a house in the distance.


    "Let''s go then."


    Aies rushed forward.


    "Slow down a bit."


    Serra complained slightly as he ran towards the house as well.


    With Aies first in, Serra followed immediately.


    "Well then, let''s unload this stuff here."


    Speaking of which, they bought a small house that was being rented by others.


    The owner was a friend of theirs who left the city during this event due to personal reasons. The person in question was an old friend of their sect master.


    The house was quite good.


    The owner had good tastes and decorated the place humbly but it had a certain elegant and homely feel to it.


    There were two floors and a basement. 5 rooms upstairs with one room used by the owner but the rest were unused. Serra took an individual room purely based on the fact that he was a guy. The girls shared rooms. A room for two girls each.


    It''s a given that sharing rooms with a girl for a boy would be indecent or frowned upon.


    There''s also a kitchen here but the owner was really bad at cooking and ruined his cooking tools and was out of food.


    So, he just ate at restaurants or various shops.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Serra arrived and headed to the kitchen where he orderly organized the stuff he bought.


    After a few minutes, he was finished.


    Aies helped out as well.


    They already ate earlier so they decided to lounge as the dining room.


    They were all dressed in their respective battle armor.


    Their weapons were also close by.


    Should their companions come rushing in and say they have a match, they could swiftly join them and head to the arena.


    And at that moment...


    "Everyone, we have a match!"


    Lilia and the rest came in.


    Aies and Serra immediately sat up and dashed towards them.


    "Let''s go!"


    No need for further talk.


    They could do so while they ran.


    "How much time do we have left?:


    Serra asked.


    "Only 40 minutes. We still have time. Our opponent is team 255."


    Lilia said the important key information as they ran.


    "Did you find any information on them"


    Serra asked.


    Luisa replied rather grimly.


    "We''re not certain. The various teams hid their team number and they didn''t dare reveal them. The only ones whose numbers we know are those who already fought."


    Serra frowned.


    "That isn''t much..."


    "No time to worry about that. Let''s head out there and fight them with our best performance."


    Lilia cut in between them.


    Both of them nodded.


    "We''re prepared to fight but our opponent is unknown... Let''s be cautious."


    ..............................


    Soon, with twenty minutes to spare, they arrive.


    The officials confirmed their team number and they rose up to the stage.


    There was a full audience here today too.


    They were hoping to see a great match.


    The opposing team showed themselves.


    It was a group of men wearing iron armor.


    Serra asked.


    "Any idea on who they are?"


    "None. Given the number of teams... It isn''t possible to gain accurate information on all teams."


    Luisa replied.


    "Given their iron armor...We might have some difficulty."


    Seileen spoke.


    "No problem. Aim for the joints."


    Lilia spoke confidently.


    Iron armor didn''t block the joints to allow movement proving to be the weakness of armor.


    Even a tribal warrior could kill an armed soldier if they aim at the openings in the joints.


    The official who served as the referee came forward.


    "The match format will be three one-on-one fights and one two-on-two."


    He announced their team numbers then said...


    "Both teams choose their combatants."


    Lilia was prepared for this format.


    The tournament was only going to use this format so she already discussed with others beforehand.


    The other team did the same.


    Lilia and the representative of the other team went forward and announced their combatants.


    Seileen was on the first 1-on-1. Luisa on the second while Lilia on the third. Aies and Serra will fight on the two-on-two match by themselves.


    Aies has weaker individual ability in comparison to the rest so she was teamed up with Serra.


    Seileen stood at the stage and faced her opponent.


    Her opponent was a young man wearing iron armor and glared at her.


    They both didn''t waste words and waited for the referee to start.


    "Let the first match begin!"


    With that, both combatants rushed at each other.


    They both drew their blades and fought head on.


    Sparks spread as their blades intersected.


    They both fought seriously and carefully.


    When they have the opportunity, they unleashed various techniques making the battle rather showy which excited the audience.


    ¡°Hm¡­ They seemed equally skilled. But¡­ Seileen has the advantage.¡±


    Serra spoke while observing them.


    ¡°Indeed. Seileen has lighter armor and can easily launch and evade attacks. The iron armor might allow him to ignore light attacks¡­ He¡¯s also skilled enough to not allow attacks through the joints. However¡­¡±


    The battle wore on and turned into a battle of attrition.]


    Seileen began to fight defensively using her superior agility to outmaneuver


    Whether the young man could defeat Seileen or Seileen could tire out the enemy long enough to land a decisive blow.


    Soon, a clear victor was seen.


    The young man had difficulty holding his own.


    His armor guarded him from attacks.


    However the price was his stamina and fatigue continued to pile up.


    In contrast, Seileen was getting better at evading his attacks and launching then.


    Finally, the chance came and the young man became sluggish.


    Seileen didn''t miss the opportunity and stabbed her blade to his neck.


    The man was shocked and tried to evade but failed.


    Seileen stopped just with the blade touching his flesh.


    "I surrender."


    The young man spoke.


    He was defeated.


    The audience cheered.


    "Well done!"


    Lilia and the others praised as Seileen returned the victor.


    The young man returned dejectedly towards his team.


    Luisa calmly headed towards the stage after that.


    The format was that there were two 1-on-1 matches followed by a 2-on-2 match then the final match was a 1-on-1.


    It was still too early to say who won or lost.


    Yet the scales tilted slightly to Lilia¡¯s team.

 Chapter 74: Two battles

    Luisa stepped forward to meet her foe.


    The person who stepped forward was rather similar to the person before, another young man wearing iron armor.


    Furthermore... He has the same body type as the previous person.


    If the areas where the people participating weren''t in view of the public, perhaps they''d say the person who lost just now came back.


    "Hey... Although they''re wearing iron armor, all of them are kinda similar from afar."


    Aies spoke.


    "Actually... There are some differences like their weapons. The previous person wielded a sword but this one wields a spear."


    Lilia commented.


    "Luisa should emerge victorius. Her weapon, is the same weapon that''s her strongest."


    Seileen said confidently.


    "Hmmm? Her weapon is different from before."


    Serra noted.


    "Yup. Her weapon against Lezner back then was a spare weapon. You see, her main weapon was broken sometime ago in a fierce battle. Regardless, this should help clinch victory."


    Luisa might not be the captain but she was the strongest among them.


    Not counting Serra of course.


    What Luisa drew out was a long blue fan. It had elegant designs bearing plum blossoms.


    Her form as she drew it out was elegant and beautiful.


    The fan began to glow.


    "Ah, I just forgot something. The matches are basically four fights, right?"


    Aies suddenly said something.


    "Yes? So, what?"


    "In the case that both teams win two fights, how will the victor be determined?"


    "Oh, that''s simple. The second match counts as two victories."


    Lilia answered.


    "Isn''t that a bit unfair? No, unbalanced?"


    "It is... But this tournament is rather unique and instead of balanced fights, they host some rather unique match-ups. This is so that the participants always make numerous preparations and adjust to any condition. One could say this is a good training method."


    Lilia said proudly.


    "...I rather doubt that... Isn''t is just that the organizer is a bit eccentric?"


    Serra retorted.


    "...Well... That might be ture... There are some nonsensical matches that are rather difficult of annoying..."


    Lilia said while averting her eyes a bit.


    She lacked means to retort to that solid argument.


    "Ah, they''re starting!"


    She dropped the subject.


    ......


    Seileen was a calm and composed fighter. She was the kind that adopted the cautious approach. Preferring to fight defensively at first and determine the opponents strength and weakness.


    Thus, upon knowing that the opponent had high defenses yet expended more stamina than her, she decisively chose a battle of attrition and wait for her opportunity to end her battle.


    How about Luisa then?


    In the fight against Lezner, she coordinated her attacks with others but how about in one on one?


    Luisa is also a level-headed individual. But she was a few notches above Seileen.


    She''s analytical by nature and could easily see a person''s abilities merely from observation alone. Her experience as an elite sect member allowed her to face many different cultivators from other sects thus she''s quite familiar with a variety of styles.


    With those in her arsenal, she could easily determine an efficient method of victory.


    Waving her fan, a blue glow flashed and covered her.


    "Hm... A shield? Break for me!"


    Her opponent cried out as he charged forward.


    His spear was emitting a red glow.


    Within her shield, that glow was captured by Luisa.


    Fire? I see.


    Her fan had a unique ability. It allowed her to use various skills from other elements. Her techniques and abilities were related to flowers. Though she specialized in wind, she had experience in using other elements and could switch the elements in her attacks.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    This helped nullify elemental advantages but against Lezner who used brute force, it was hardly effective.


    Luisa calmly waited.


    The red burning spear clashed with the blue barrier.


    When the force was dispelled and transferred upon the shield, Luisa dispersed the shield.


    "What!?"


    Leaving the opponent hanging in shook, Luisa didn''t miss the opportunity and tried to end the match swiftly.


    She swung her fan numerous times.


    Each swing produced a blade of wind that rushed towards him forming 7 slashes!


    "Seven Petal Blades."


    She calmly stated.


    The opponent shook off her shock and tried to use his weapon to disperse them.


    But being in mid-air, he couldn''t defend properly and allowed four slashes to reach him.


    They all hit the joints in his body.


    Blood dripped as he glared at her.


    Raising her fan once more, a great wind went burst and blew him forward.


    "Urk! You''re a wind-type cultivator?"


    He said as he stabbed his spear into the ground to prevent himself from falling out the stage.


    "Still standing? Not for long."


    Luisa coldly gazed at her foe.


    Gathering her power, she unleashed an instant strike at him aiming for his chest.


    A blue light rushed towards him.


    Gritting his teeth, he dodged to the right.


    However, he was shocked to see Luisa there.


    "Fast!"


    He spoke.


    "I expended up a bit of power to form that attack. Take it obediently like a man, won''t you?"


    She said.


    Another burst of wind blew him into the trajectory of the attack.


    "Argh!"


    The blue light crashed into him and exploded.


    Blowing him off towards the wall.


    He collapsed to the ground.


    He fainted from that blow.


    On closer look, there was ice covering some of his body.


    "I specialize in water attacks. Wind is simply something I can also use. Unfortunately, it''s merely secondary."


    Luisa said.


    Ignoring the fact that her opponent couldn''t hear her anymore.


    The second match was decided.


    "Well done!"


    Lilia cried out along with the crowd.


    It was a one-sided battle.


    The opponent was far stronger than him.


    Amidst the cheers, Luisa calmly walked off the stage.


    "Victor! Sky Blossom Sect!¡±


    The referee announced the conclusion.


    "Alright! Our turn!"


    Aies said enthusiastically.


    "Aies, Serra, don''t mess it up, you two."


    Luisa said as she descended down the stage.


    "I''d like to participate... But, I find it more valuable that we claim victory. This match emphasizes teamwork. If you two lose, they''ll have caught up. So, don''t. Win and this battle ends in our total victory."


    It was time for her and Serra to take the stage.


    "Next match! Both teams send out their combatants!"


    Serra nodded and walked towards the stage with Aies.


    Two youths ascended the stairs with them.


    On the other side of course.


    "Both combatants are ready! Start the match in..."


    The referee began counting down.


    Both sides stared at each other.


    "3! 2! 1! Fight!"


    Immediately, a brown aura enveloped both their foes.


    "Earth? A technique that empowers defense...? No, it lightens the weight!"


    Serra observed.


    The light disappeared soon butt a brown glow still emitted from their bodies.


    They immediately rushed forward.


    Not only that, but they were fast! Just as if they weren''t wearing armor!


    "Take this!"


    Serra unleashed two ice balls similar to the ones unleashed towards Lezner before.


    "Hmph! Won''t work on us!"


    "You take us too lightly if you think this is enough to work on us!"


    They both coldly laughed as they watched two ice balls head straight towards them.


    The first one held a hammer and the other an axe.


    They ruthlessly smashed both ice balls apart.


    As they rushed forwards, the sound of shattering glass rang out and two men getting drenched.


    The ice balls drenched both men as cold water slammed into them.


    Upon that, both of the stopped.


    The audience went silent for a second as they stopped.


    Then...


    "Hahahahaha! What was that, a prank?"


    "Why place water into them? Were you looking down on them or was this your intention?"


    "This girly is a bit soft!"


    They laughed.


    "Bastards! Looking down on us!?"


    One of them roared.


    The other didn''t show expressions because of hte armor but it was obvious he wasn''t too happy.


    They rushed at Serra enraged.


    "Not my intention. Freeze the ground!"


    A blue light shone and the stage began to freeze!


    With the ground turning into ice, it became slippery.


    Both of the stopped again.


    Serra didn''t freeze the ground where Aies was.


    "Now... take this."


    Four ice balls appeared and launched towards them.


    "Hmph!"


    Standing their ground, they smashed them apart.


    Once more, the sound of shattering glass rand out as they were further drenched in cold water.


    They shivered from the cold.


    "Is cheap tricks all you can do?"


    "E-even if we freeze, we won''t lose!"


    They yelled angrily.


    "You look down on me a bit too much."


    Serra spoke without a ripple of emotion in his voice.


    A path towards them unfroze as Aies dashed towards them.


    "Same tactic with that brute? Okay! Time to show my stuff!"


    Aies yelled excitedly.


    She charged forward with her spear with a warcry.


    "Yiya!"


    Seeing this, the two hurriedly swung their blades but...


    "Urk..."


    "Grr..."


    The cold ice hindered their movements.


    "Haha!"


    Laughing lightly, she pierced with her spear... Trying to strike their joints.


    Unable to move properly, l they swiftly took damage.


    "That cunning brat..."


    One of them spat out.


    "Time to back out a bit..."


    Saying that, Aies leapt up.


    The two watched her jump puzzled.


    But they weren''t puzzled long.


    Two ice balls smashed into their faces, drenching them for a third time.


    The clear sound of shattering glass rang out a third as well to the laughter of the crowd.


    The two began to shiver.


    Not from the cold, but from rage.


    "You!!!"


    It was fortunate they were wearing helmets that blocked off any damage. The ice balls were rather light and thin so they really were like glass.


    Enraged they tried to rush at Serra.


    "It''s best for you two to give it up. Your ambitions ends here... Blame your own misfortune for facing me here."


    Serra spoke coldly.


    "Arrogant fool! You think this will be enough to stop us!?"


    One of them roared angrily.


    :"I don''t think."


    Serra spoke quietly.


    "I know. Do you seriously believe... that those ice balls were a joke...?"


    He addressed them.


    At once, the two realized that something was wrong with their bodies.


    They... couldn''t move their bodies... furthermore...


    The area around them... the temperature was freezing!


    The barrier around the arena blocked off the cold so none of the audience felt it but...


    "The ice... it''s frozen!?"


    "Wait... you drenched us to freeze us?"


    They yelled.


    The audience then realized it and were quite stunned.


    "That''s right... It''s over now. Aies, if you please."


    Aies stepped forward.


    "Brr! It''s really cold... But not enough to stop me! Here I go!"


    She dashed towards the two once more.


    Calmly, she drew her spear near his neck.


    "Can''t move, can you?"


    The referee glanced towards them and sighed.


    "The two combatants are unable to battle! Team Sky Blossom wins!"


    The audience didn''t cheer.


    The last two fights were quite thrilling and displayed skill and technique but this match was merely trickery and deceit.


    It was indeed a good battle... But it was by no means entertaining.


    The defeated team glanced towards them with hatred in their eyes.


    No one liked having their chances of glory ruined by mere tricks.


    The two failed to even display all their power.


    Aside from that was regret.


    They didn¡¯t think it through carefully enough and now¡­ Their ambition and path ends here.

 Notice

    Hello. This is Bladerain. I came to send a notice. I''ll temporarily stop uploading chapters. I intend to work hard and attempt to finish my novel. Regardless of whether or not I finish it, I''ll upload every chapter I finished before the end of the month. Wish me luck.


    Also, despite how many critical flaws there are in the story that tempted me to drop the story, I didn''t do so. Do you know why? I''m also an avid reader myself. There are some stories that I thought were good. Stories that I quite liked that were dropped for various reasons. I don''t hold any hatred towards such authors. We all have our circumstances. What if that author suffered an accident or a friend or relative just died? The loss of people dear to us can greatly change people. I have a friend whose grandfather died. After that... he changed. We''re still friends but the way he lived his life and his actions changed. I understood that some circumstances can prove devestating to others and incite a change in personality.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    As such, I don''t blame them. But... I clearly remember the disappointment and discontent I felt knowing I won''t know the end of the story. I don''t want others to suffer the same feeling. Thus, I made the resolution that any novel I start, I will finish. Therefore, please be patient.


    As consolation, have you read about a story known as Sleeping Princess on the Demon King''s Castle? It''s very funny. I hadn''t had a great laugh ever since I read Baka to Test To Shoukanjuu by Kenji Inoue.

 Interlude - Timeskip

    Aies and Serra descended and reunited with the rest.


    "Sigh... winning like this isn''t really good. We don''t have anyone cheering for us..."


    Aies complained.


    "It can''t be helped. It was a good way of claiming victory. Here, we proved ourselves, be it technique, strength or cunning. It''s enough."


    Lilia consoled her.


    "That''s right. After this, that trick won''t work again. Everyone would be on guard against that trick. So, the next fights would definitely be showy."


    Seileen said.


    "Well... If you ask me, their team didn''t fight very well. Their team should be balanced... But why did only armored ones fight...?"


    Serra asked.


    "True... But, they couldn''t possibly have cheated. Furthermore, their support should be well-balanced. Perhaps..."


    Luisa thought of a possibility.


    "Thought of something?"


    They asked her.


    "I think I get it. It''s reserve members. Most likely, they do have a support but he was put into reserves. He just participated in the tests so they could pass the trials. It''s not really a secret... This match-up is basically a kind where you can put any fighter''s you wish to participate fight as they wish. They intended their support and marksman to pass the trials but their main fighters were coming along as reserved. The moment the trials concluded, they would be placed as reserved while those members who they intended to fight would join up."


    Luisa explained.


    "Oh... So that''s how they only showed armored warriors to fight."Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Seileen said in understanding.


    "Well... That truly does not matter much. Let''s return and rest. We should celebrate clearing our first battle with a victory!"


    Lilia spoke.


    After that, they returned to the house they rented and had a small celebration. They didn''t go all out since they might need to fight tomorrow.


    ...............


    Tomorrow, they discussed some tactics and match-ups to increase the chances of victory.


    They didn''t get called in to fight that day.


    The next day, they did indeed have a match.


    Fortunately, they were merely on the same level as the team they fought before.


    The next days were also quite difficult.


    They faced many teams but they didn''t face any truly formidable team.


    Serra didn''t use any tricks similar to the trick he used against the first team or Lezner. He mainly used range attacks, made the ground frozen and difficult to approach him as he supported Aies in battle.


    The battles were growing harder.


    It showed that the weaker ones were eventually getting cleared out.


    However... they didn''t hit any iron plates and when the first phase of the tournament was cleared... they emerged victorious on all their battles. Given their record... They immediately got a good ranking. Given their total victory... They were placed at 13th. There were also 49 other teams. The one''s there in the top were the same as they should be. However... Of the 10 teams expected to take their ranks... Two were eliminated early by two dark horses.


    The Icepeak Team and the White Crow Team.


    They didn''t have much intel available on them.


    They must''ve been some team hidden out there somewhere that decided to hide their abilities and train in silence until the tournament came out. Intel was gathered immediately on these two teams but no info about them was found. Be it their weapons, skills, sects, names and abilities were a mystery.


    It was believed that they found a mysterious ruin that hid various techniques about those sects that once fought and waged war against the founder or even before that. Ruins of the old era that was filled with strife and war.


    Also... Some rules were adapted and used for this new format.


    The 50 teams are each given a ranking based on their performances. They can freely challenge teams only two ranks ahead of them. They cannot challenge teams below them.


    Basically, Rank 16 can challenge Rank 15 or 14 but not Rank 17 or below. All teams challenged can only accept two battles per day. A team that challenged a team above them and lost cannot be challenged for a period of three days however, they can''t issue any challenges for a week.


    Each rank has a corresponding reward set to them. But all teams want the highest possible reward. Regardless, any rewards for any rank are quite a fortune in the eyes of any sect.


    Supervisors will supervise and ensure that no violations take place.


    All teams are given a month to fight it out and determine the final rankings.


    It was time... for a great struggle for supremacy.


    Who will be crowned as the overlords of their generation?

 Chapter 75: Start of the End

    Everyone was currently celebrating.


    "Cheers! We did it! We''ve passed the greatest hurdle!"


    Aies happily spoke.


    "True. We''re currently placed at 13th for now... The other twelve teams have also claimed only victories... However, their opponents were stronger than the foes we faced. Thus, they''ve been placed at a higher rank than ours."


    Luisa spoke sternly.


    "That''s correct. In the other teams, we''re called the lucky team. We do have some ability... but our true strength wasn''t brought out in any of our previous battles. And that''s all thanks to our great lucky captain!"


    Seileen said happily while gazing at Lilia''s direction.


    The rest also turned towards her.


    "W-what?"


    She stammered.


    She was feeling slightly shy at all the attention that was directed towards her.


    "You''re really a lucky girl, aren''t you?"


    Serra spoke.


    The rest nodded in unison.


    "Eh... It''s not that great of a skill..."


    Luck was something that couldn''t be seen or sensed.


    It''s something a person is born with and can''t be changed or improved so they could only envy her.


    Even Lilia herself understood that she''s more fortunate than others.


    "What are you talking about, Captain? It''s thanks to that luck of yours that you''re the captain and we managed to get here smoothly."


    Seileen retorted.


    "That''s true. While effort is indeed required, luck allows one to gain opportunities. And those opportunities are greatly beneficial for cultivators."


    Serra quietly commented.


    "Speaking of which, just how useful is luck anyways?"


    Aies asked.


    "It''s actually a critical factor and is useful in many things... Be it serious matters or everyday life, luck is something many would love to acquire."


    Serra said knowingly.


    "Eh... Really?"


    Aies asked unconvinced.


    "Well, if you''re lucky, you could go gambling and you could earn easy money. Gambling is basically 9/10 luck and 1.10 skill after all."


    Seileen gave an example.


    "I''m not too sure of that figure and why gambling? Here''s a more proper example."


    Luisa retorted.


    "As you know, I''m well-known to be quite unlucky. Due to my misfortune, I often encounter a lot of magical beasts when exploring. You know how my weapon was damaged before right?"


    Luisa hinted on her fan.


    "Ah, it was damaged during a fierce battle with a certain magical beast."


    Seileen remembered.


    "That''s right. It was a Sea Serpent King. It was known to rarely appear in that area and was the overlord of the region. It rarely attacked travelers since it''s known to be docile and lurks only in the deepest areas of the sea. That same creature happened to be on a stroll when I was leaving the area carrying a certain valuable treasure that would be greatly beneficial for it."


    "Treasure?"


    "It was a certain item known as Water God''s Orb. It was a very rare herb I bought from a friend and I would use to craft my armor. It was something that could also aid many water magical beasts in advancing to the Emperor Stage."


    Luisa sighed at this point.


    "The other regions... housed far too many water magical beasts quite strong and some had many magical beasts on the same level as the Sea Serpent King. That same magical beast detected it during its stroll and it couldn''t resist and was determined to get it from me. Thus, we fought. I managed to escape with the orb but due to its relentless pursuit, my weapon was damaged quite severely and I was injured."If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    The rest stared at her in pity.


    If things worked out fine, she would have been in perfect condition for the tournament in their sect to determine who would be the combatants.


    If things truly went as planned, than even if she ended up facing all those disciples, she would have still have enough power to deal  with Lilia and would have difficulty against her, allowing her to display her full prowess and giving the elders the decision to make her captain.


    "But, I''m glad it happened."


    Aies spoke at the end of the story.


    Interrupting her slightly.


    "What? Why would you be happy?"


    Luisa stared at her.


    If she didn''t give a good explanation, there would be a severe punishmen for her.


    Noticing her gaze, Aies playfully stuck out her tongue and said.


    "If you were the captain, you would be the one drawing lots. If that happened, we''d probably have all the strong teams as our opponents. By then, we would have been eliminated by the first round!"


    She spoke with a legitimate and convincing reason.


    At those words, Luisa was dumbfounded.


    "You brat..."


    She was infuriated at such words but lacked the means of retort.


    Recent events proved that she was right.


    And despite being unwilling to accept such a truth, she can''t say anything against it.


    That event with the Sea Serpent King wasn''t the only event to prove Luisa''s misfortune and ill-luck after all.


    "Well, enough of that. Let''s move on to our next plans."


    Lilia knocked on Aies head and changed the topic.


    Aies rubbed her head and stared at Lilia while feeling wronged.


    "...Why must you hit me...Big Sis...?"


    "You yourself know the reason why."


    Seileen retorted.


    "Given the current rules, we can only engage in two battles. We can either challenge the rank 12th team then face the rank 11th team but that''s too reckless. We should gather detailed intel on the teams ranked 10-20."


    Luisa ignored the banter and proceeded straight to the topic at hand.


    "Wait. Why only those teams?"


    Seileen asked.


    "Simple. We''re ranked given our performances and the powers we showed. Therefore, the teams ranked 10th-20th have varying levels of power roughly on the same level. It''s unlikely that teams ranked 20th-50th would be our opponents."


    Luisa explained.


    "Thus, I find it unlikely that teams 1st-9th would be our opponents. They don''t the right to challenge those beneath them.  Thus, they''re not our concerns. It''s unrealistic to consider them as our oponents as they are far stronger than us. It''s more realistic to face those around the same area."


    She explained things in a logical manner.


    Indeed, like how dragons would never deign to attack wolves or those beneath it. Such a mighty beast would only consider foes like it''s kind. Never those creatures far beneath it.


    "Each team defeated once would have to wait a week until they can do battle once more. Therefore, each team can only be defeated thrice. Once they taste a fourth defeat, they''ll be unable to challenge anyone again. The best they could do is hold their place. Now... Here''s our situation.


    Our target is to be in the top 10. Thus, our final opponent is the tenth team. It''s far better to be cautious... Therefore, we won''t be challenging any teams for the moment. There''s no rule forbidding teams to challenge the team who just lost a match. It''s very likely that the ranked 14th team would challenge us if we lost the match with the ranked 12th team. When we''re tired from our battle. Using the rules to our advantage, we''ll wait for the ranked 14th and 15th team to challenge us. Once we''ve rested, we challenge the 12th team."


    Luisa proposed her strategy.


    If they battle the 12th team. The two teams below them would surely challenge them in their tired states. Thus, they''ll wait for the two teams to challenge them then rest. During the time when the two teams are still suffering from the penalty of their loss, they''ll challenge the 12th team, claim victory and rest up.


    Even if the other teams challenge them, they would have been rested and have enough power to protect their place.


    "We''ll use this cautious tactic to claim victory. Slow but steady... However, suffering a single loss would threaten our plan. So, we can''t afford to be careless."


    Luisa warned them.


    The rest seriously nodded.


    "So, we''re going for a defensive approach...? What if those two teams don''t challenge us?"


    Seileen asked.


    "We''ll wait until the second week. If they still don''t challenge us and remain content in their place, we have no choice but to go on the offensive."


    Lilia declared.


    "However, that''s unlikely. We''ve never fought either of those two teams and they''re quite ambitious. I believe that in the first week, they''ll send out their challenge."


    Luisa added.


    "Well then... let''s continue to party until it''s time to sleep!"


    Aies said.


    And so, they continued their merrymaking until it was time to sleep.


    They did want to continue but they have important tasks to do tomorrow.


    --------


    In a corner of the city, inside a private mansion.


    There was a certain room that was very lively.


    There were handsome waiters bringing delicious food, beautiful dancers moving their voluptuous bodies and skilled musicians playing music.


    In the center of the room were 14 youths drinking fine wine and enjoying the food.


    Seven of them wore green robes while the other group wore violet robes.


    There were no other guests.


    This was a party made and prepared only for their sake.


    "Little brother Grey, we''ll be counting on you for tomorrow to deal with the Sky Blossom sect."


    One of the violet robed youths spoke.


    "Please, elder brother Yun, leave it to us. We''ll surely let those girls know our prowess. It''ll be no problem for us. Just remember to give us the gifts we''ve been expecting at our sect once the tournament concludes."


    One of the green robed figures replied.


    The youth that addressed him earlier smiled.


    "But of course. Our sects are like brothers. We would naturally take good care of those who belong to our side."


    Both groups then raised their glasses together as they celebrated.


    "Then there''s nothing left to discuss. We''ll tire those girls out while you deal the final blow. Hmph, merely a Sky Blossom sect that managed to earn a higher position purely out of sheer luck. They''ll know the misfortune of being in a higher ranking that doesn''t belong to them!"


    One of the youths called out with a wild laugh.


    "But of course! It was purely our bad luck that drew us the 1st ranked team as our opponent that round!"


    Another called out.


    They all knew that they fell simply because they faced off against one of the strong ones as their foes.


    Their sect didn''t hold any wild ambitions to get the highest rank. They clearly knew and understood their limits.


    Thus, they didn''t dare offend them or face them.


    They''re aiming for the 10th ranked seat just like the Sky Blossom sect is.


    While the ones above are quite peaceful, it''s the lower rankings that are the most chaotic.

 Chapter 76: The Long Month

    First day of the new month in the capital.


    Serra made breakfast for everyone.


    "Ah... Serra''s cooking is really delicious!"


    Aies spoke while stuffing her cheeks with food.


    "Yes... It''s a bit shameful that the boy is the only one cooking here..."


    Seileen spoke with complex feelings.


    "It''s not a matter of whose cooking but rather who can."


    Luisa interjected.


    "As women, I find humiliating that we have nothing to say to that..."


    Lilia added wryly.


    "Enough of that please... Just finish your food quietly. On the side note, I''m glad I got some good deals in the market yesterday."


    Serra spoke as he tasted his own cooking.


    Pretty good if I say so myself. A pity I can''t use some ingredients I found from other worlds though...


    Serra travelled through other planes and gathered some unique ingredients that are quite rare.


    Aside from those ingredients from the Higher Planes, there are some rather rare and delicious types of ingredients found in some worlds that are very unique.


    He hasn''t recalled finding them in any other world nor has he heard of it from others.


    He even went so far as to offer a reward for such information and sent out his subordinates.


    It caused quite an ordeal back then.


    Rewards from a sovereign? Such a prospect would drive any cultivator mad with frenzy and desire.


    Such events rarely happen.


    He did receive what he wanted and gave out a rich reward to the person who found it.


    Right, person. It¡¯s because there was only one world that had the same ingredient as that other world.


    Serra remembered such events that would stun anyone in this world as he enjoyed his food.


    .....................


    After finishing their food and washing the dishes, they all headed out.


    "Speaking of which, it''s a pity that our reinforcements never came..."


    Lilia spoke regretfully as she recalled something.


    Their reinforcements encountered a fierce horde of magical beasts and barely got out with their lives.


    Though they''re alive, they suffered grievous wounds forcing them to retreat back to the sect.


    The sect was forced to purchase an expensive message stone that sent the terrible news to their team.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    They were distraught as such bad luck...


    It was fortunate their opponents were the weakest otherwise they would have already departed on the journey to return back to their sect.


    Truly an unfortunate affair.


    "It''s incredible that we''re still around despite being the only team without reinforcements."


    Lilia spoke while sighing.


    "We can''t mess things up..."


    The sect received word of their feats and upon achieving great success despite such setbacks and limitations, they praised them greatly and promised to double the rewards regardless of the result. Should they achieve their mission, they would give out some extremely rare artifacts as rewards and double their rewards a second time.


    Even for a great sect such as Sky Blossom, such things would still cost them 70% of their wealth and savings.


    But such a price is worth it for the glory, honor and rewards they''ll receive for accomplishing their next task.


    The others know of this as well.


    Serra... The sect received word of his existence and how he lent his power. In gratitude for his assistance, the sect has promised to reward him as well.


    Although... There is much to know about him but his character is truly kind.


    His background, master, sect and origins are truly unknown but he''s proven himself as one of their allies.


    The sect wasn¡¯t at ease with such an unknown person whose origins are unknown. Thus, they sent out their elites as reinforcements but they ultimately met an unexpected disaster.


    And now that things have proceeded up till this point... The sect is unable to send anyone else to assist them. Any one they sent would be unworthy to participate and only be a hindrance.


    Given how far they were they already were. It was too late to do anything.


    Serra was already aware of everything from the start.


    Still, he truly had nothing to do with that event that destroyed their hopes for reinforcements.


    "Let''s go."


    Lilia shook those thoughts aside and focused on the task at hand.


    Regardless of who he is, he''s already a trusted comrade. It would be impossible to find another trustworthy ally such as him at this point. Not like we didn''t try...


    2nd Day of the Tournament.


    Everyone gathered up in the dining room.


    Lilia gathered everyone during the afternoon.


    "Everyone, team 15th has challenged us to battle."


    She announced.


    "We have gathered intel yesterday and according to that intel, the 14th and 15th team have formed an joint partnership. It''s safe to assume that the 14th team would challenge us immediately after the match against the 15th team."


    She spoke gravely.


    "We were already prepared for this... However, we didn''t expect them to form a joint cooperation. It''s safe to assume that their target is us."


    Everyone nodded.


    Seileen stepped forward.


    "That''s pretty surprising. Each team should have aimed to get the highest possible rank. That team 15th would willingly act as a stepping stone for them... Don''t they have any ambition?"


    Lilia nodded.


    "That''s correct. Every team is quite prestigious but the relationship between those two teams... is quite different. The sect of Team 15th is a branch sect of the sect of the 14th team. I believe that sect members of the 14th team that could qualify as main members or reserves transferred to that branch so they could assist the main branch."


    Everyone''s expressions changed.


    "What? How is that fair? They actually allowed that?"


    Seileen said in disbelief.


    "It''s not too strange. There are some rare situations when teams willingly allowed themselves as stepping stones for other teams to move forward. It''s usually dealings with the people behind them. It''s safe to say that the main sect offered some great rewards to the branch sect."


    As she was explaining things, there was a knock on their door.


    "Hm? Who is it?"


    Lilia was puzzled.


    Who would come at this time?"


    "I''ll go get it!"


    Seileen proposed.


    She went ahead to find a red robed young man.


    "Greetings. Team Sky Blossom, I''m correct? The ranked 13th team?"


    He asked politely.


    "Yes. We are."


    Upon confirmation, he handed out a letter.


    "You were challenged by Team Green Ghosts this morning. After three hours, you shall face each other at the arena."


    He bowed then left leaving the letter in Seileen''s hands.


    Seileen''s expression changed.


    She returned to the room swiftly.


    "Everyone, the challenge by the 15th ranked team has arrived!"


    She called out.


    "To think it would come this soon... They''re not very patient."


    Serra spoke out.


    "That doesn¡¯t matter. Our goals remain the same. Since they took the initiative to challenge us, that saves us the annoyance of waiting for them."


    Lilia said.


    "Since those two are working together, it''s a given that the 15th ranked team would give it their all against us. They''ll aim to reduce of fighting ability to increase the chances of the 14th team''s victory."


    Luisa calmly noted.


    "In that case, our priority is to conserve our strength. With this, we''ll be able to take down the 12th ranked team soon."


    Lilia replied.


    "Well then... Only three hours... Let''s go prepare. Within two hours, we''ll head over."

 Chapter 77: Poison

    Arena


    Lilia''s team faced off against the enemy team.


    It was the morning of a new day.


    The strange thing about this team was that their figures were the same. If anything to differentiate them, it would be their voices and their height.


    Their weapons were also the same.


    Two daggers.


    As per their agreement, Seileen went out first.


    One of their opponents came forward to face her.


    Since they knew their plan, Seileen decided to end this battle swiftly to conserve her strength.


    Knowing this, the opponent calmly fought defensively.


    Seileen had great difficulty.


    The opponent''s speed and skill is quite considerable.


    After some time, Seileen decided to go all out.


    The clash of blades intensified.


    Seileen took some small cuts while the enemy also bled.


    Aies looked on at the battle curiously.


    "Hey, Seileen is disadvantaged if you think about it."


    She said.


    The rest nodded.


    "In terms of weapons, Seileen''s spear is at an advantage due to it''s long range but once he gets close that advantage becomes a disadvantage."


    Luisa nodded.


    Seileen was indeed disadvantaged but she was by no means lacking and used her fists and legs to deal attacks forcing the enemy to back down.


    But not before dealing a blow or two.


    This stalemate continued on until the opponent made an error.


    In a critical moment, Seileen discovered a chance and dealt a critical blow.


    However, that was the enemies plan.


    The moment he was dealt that blow, he rushed forward and heavily injured Seileen.


    Gazing at him in shock, she turned furious and unleashed a strong skill that heavily injured him the same way.


    Severely injured, he collapsed on the ground.


    "Seileen!"


    Her team called out.


    "Neil!"


    Their opponents called out ins shock.


    Though they planned to deal a heavy blow and attain victory, they didn''t expect her to retaliate viciously.


    Seileen used her spear to continue standing.


    The referee immediately rushed forward to treat him.


    "Winner, Team Sky Blossom Sect!"


    He called out.


    Both teams rushed to their companions and carried them back.


    However, they glared at each other''s team viciously as well.


    After this event, the two teams fought intensely.


    Aies went next and ruthlessly injured the next foe.


    Serra came forward next and fought the enemy to a draw.


    Luisa faced off against their strongest combatant and loss.


    She was also severely injured.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Lilia fought next and in a vicious move, she severely injured her foe.


    Her team was announced the victor and they rushed their injured comrades towards the base.


    "What a blunder... To think that I was prepared for any underhanded attacks but was still severely injured."


    Luisa called out.


    Her opponent, Grey was very strong.


    She ultimately lost because she tried to conserve her strength.


    "Don''t feel too bad about it. Didn''t you also severely injure him as well?"


    Seileen called out.


    "True... But to think he''d be able to stand up and still claim victory... How tenacious..."


    The mood in their team was bad.


    "Urk... This is bad."


    Lilia called out gravely.


    Another challenge letter came out next.


    They might''ve won the first but they would have difficulty fighting the second match.


    Despite their victory, they felt no joy.


    Only anxiety.


    "When will we fight?"


    Serra asked.


    "Since it''s already past the time to fight, tomorrow morning."


    Lilia spoke gravely.


    "Here. Let me help."


    Serra came forward to treat them.


    "I''ll treat their injuries. For now, let me try my utmost."


    He spoke to reassure his companions.


    "Take these potions for now."


    He passed them some bottles filled with blue liquid.


    "What''s this?"


    Aies asked.


    "This will help heal your injuries and replenish your stamina."


    He said.


    "I see¡­ Serra, we''ll leave Seileen and Luisa to you. Ask us for anything you might need later on. Let''s go everyone."


    Still worried, the rest returned to their rooms reluctantly while Serra treated both Luisa and Seileen.


    As they left, Serra looked at Luisa and Seileen and said seriously.


    "I''ll do my best to treat you."


    Hearing this, the two felt relieved.


    They did get injured a few times before and Serra treated them all.


    However, the injuries were merely small scratches or minor burns and the like.


    This is the first time they suffered a heavy injury.


    As the saying goes, if you can''t do the minor matters, they can''t entrust you with important or major matters.


    Since Serra healed the minor injuries right, they can trust him with this task.


    That said, they lack the time to find another expert doctor at this time.


    They merely have a day left.


    Thus, the task falls into his hands.


    "For now... I''ll have to check your injuries."


    Serra said.


    He first took a look at Luisa''s injuries.


    "Hm... The injuries can be treated easily but the poison is the problem."


    Serra observed her injuries.


    Luisa is a more important fighter than Seileen.


    Thus, Serra prioritized Luisa first.


    The injuries Luisa suffered were a bit deep.


    Fortunately, healing them wouldn''t pose a problem.


    There are herbs and potions that could heal them within an hour.


    However, the poison is quite potent.


    "Next, Seileen."


    He headed towards her.


    "Hm... This is a bit more troubling."


    Seileen suffered minor cuts against her foe earlier.


    Each blow had poison.


    Because of the nature of shallow cuts, the poison spread at a wide area through multiple parts of the body.


    "Luisa suffered a severe single blow. The poison is located within that area. But for Seileen, the poison has spread through a wide area through those cuts..."


    Serra frowned.


    "The poison isn''t fatal. But, it''s a long-term poison that weakens, paralyzes and confuses the mind. It''s known as the Cataract Poison."


    Serra noted.


    Luisa and Seileen heard.


    "Cataract Poison?"


    Luisa asked.


    She wasn''t familiar with poisons. Though she did knew common ones, some specialized poisons that were quite deep weren''t in her knowledge.


    "The elders must''ve checked their weapons. If the poison was fatal or something that could cripple one''s cultivation, they would be disqualified immediately. Thus, they used a mild poison. This poison is quite irritating mainly due the fact that the ingredients required to cure it poses some difficulty for us...  Still, there''s not much of an issue with the poison itself. Even without a cure, it''ll fade away by itself with time. Merely, it only fades within 3 days..."


    Serra spoke.


    "By that time, we would be down to 16th place or even lower..."


    Luisa said gravely.


    "I''ll speak with the others, you two should rest."


    Serra said.


    The two agreed then Serra went off to speak to the rest.


    ..............................


    The remaining members in good condition were gathered here.


    Serra, Lilia and Aies.


    "3 days... Can''t we find a cure quickly?"


    Lilia asked.


    "It''s not that simple. This Cataract Poison is very troublesome and requires some rare ingredients to treat it. These ingredients are quite rare and since it fades away within 3 days, most people would just bear it and let it fade away within that time."


    Serra answered.


    "Then, let''s gather the ingredients!"


    Aies spoke swiftly.


    "She''s right. Since that''s the only way to treat it, let''s do so. Tell us the ingredients."


    Lilia quickly came to a decision.


    "Fine. The ingredients are..."


    Serra listed the ingredients clearly.


    The faces of the two paled.


    "What...? Such a mild poison requires such rare materials just to cure? How could there be such an irritating poison in this world?"


    Lilia said with fury.


    "The only reason a cure was found was because a certain stubborn doctor was determined to find a cure for it and spent a vast amount of time using up any and all materials just to develop a cure for it. That person also had a great and powerful cultivation and had many resources at his home. He persisted in it wasting great amounts of resources just to cure it. The expenses... were so great that once the cure was found, everyone decided to never even once consider it."


    Serra said with a sigh.


    "We have no choice... Let''s try finding them right away."


    The rest nodded and went out.


    Thus, the three separated and each went to look for the ingredients.


    Serra decided to head to the main street.


    "There might be a chance there''s a few I could get there. So, I can''t dismiss that chance.  I''ll also gather the common ingredients for it there. You two should focus on the other ingredients. Once I buy the ones easily found, I''ll start searching for the rest."


    Was what Serra said to them.


    They agreed quickly and departed to their destinations at once.


    Within an hour, Serra managed to buy the common ingredients and crossed out few from the rare ingredients at a rather expensive price.


    "I couldn''t find anything else there... Did the other two have better luck?"


    Serra thought to himself.


    He could use his abilities and traverse the entire world within a moment but that wouldn''t be fair.


    It would be a simple matter to freeze time in this world and take his time gathering the ingredients for it or use his powers directly and cure it but that would be overstepping his bounds again.


    "For now, I should speak to them."


    Serra decided.


    And so, he headed off towards them.

 Chapter 78: Payback

    Serra met up with Lilia and Aies at the cafe where Serra had tea with Lilia.


    "Did you find any?"


    Serra asked them.


    "I found 3..."


    Aies started.


    "Only 4 for me..."


    Lilia said.


    "I only found 2. What are the ingredients you found?"


    They listed them.


    "Good. We each got separate ingredients. However... We still lack 2 more..."


    Serra frowned.


    "It''s good that this is the capital of the world. We have a higher chance of finding them here than anywhere else."


    Lilia said.


    "We haven''t searched everywhere yet. There are still some hidden shops in alleys or streets not often visited by people. There might be a few there. I''ll go check."


    Serra said.


    "Got it. We haven''t checked the entire market either. We''ll go too. Let''s meet back at the base afterwards."


    Lilia decided.


    The rest nodded and set off.


    ........................


    They ran around the entire city searching for the last two ingredients... However, they only found one.


    "Urk... We need to find that last one fast!"


    Lilia spoke gravely.


    "But where...? We already searched everywhere?"


    Aies said frantically.


    "What do we do...?"


    Even Serra was at a dilemma.


    He had plenty of such ingredients at his storage space.


    As a doctor, he kept large amounts of rare ingredients at his storage space. But that would violate the rules he kept himself.


    As he was hesitating, a knocking could be heard at the door.


    "Who is it now?"


    Aies spoke irritated.


    They were having a crisis. They don''t appreciate any disturbances.


    Especially not at this critical moment where they were at their wits end.


    "I''ll go check."


    Serra said as he headed there.


    When he opened the door, he found a young man with golden hair standing in front of him.


    He looked mild and composed.


    "You are from the Sky Blossom Sect right?"


    He asked in a kind tone.


    "Yes... But who are you?"


    He replied warily.


    "I''m from the 17 team. I heard from my resources that you were lacking this ingredient, correct?"


    He showed a herb with his hand.


    "That''s!"


    Serra spoke surprised.


    It was the final ingredient that they were looking for.


    "What do you want in exchange for it?"


    Serra asked in a business like tone.


    The man smiled and laughed.


    "I''m giving this herb to you for free. I have enmity with the 14th and 15th group from the same organization. Suffice to say, our sect is enemies with them. Our sect has given us a mission. That it doesn''t matter what rank we get even if it''s the 50th rank so long as they are ranked below us."


    He said eloquently.


    He was quite a handsome man.


    "Are you certain? This herb is quite rare."Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    He still needed to ascertain his intentions.


    "Yes. You see, we know their methods quite well and prepared counter-measures for them. We prepared the ingredients for this poison in case we face them. However, our preparations were for naught. You see, we were unfortunately forced to face top contenders in the early rounds forcing us to our current rank. We intend to surpass them and become the 13th ranked team ourselves."


    He was surprised again.


    "In that case, wouldn''t that make us your targets? Why help us?"


    The man laughed.


    "No. We have someone who possess the ability to see the future. Your team... would definitely not be staying at the 13th rank for long. As the saying goes, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Would you help us achieve our goal?"


    He proposed.


    Serra thought for a moment and nodded.


    "Very well. However... I suggest we don''t formally meet at present. We intend to deal a surprise tomorrow towards our foe."


    He said.


    The man laughed.


    "Excellent. Take this herb. I hope you win tomorrow."


    With that, he turned and left.


    Serra gazed at the herb then closed the door.


    He relayed the events to his companions.


    They looked quite relieved.


    "This is good news."


    Aies said.


    "But can we trust them?"


    Lilia said warily.


    Serra assured her.


    "There''s no issue here. I inspected the ingredients. They''re safe."


    That assured Lilia.


    "But the 18th team... Do we have any intel on them?"


    Lilia asked.


    "We do. Luisa had them..."


    Aies said quickly.


    "Let''s consult Luisa and Seileen first before we decide on anything."


    Lilia said.


    The two agreed and headed towards where Seileen and Luisa were resting.


    .......................................


    "I see..."


    Luisa said in understanding.


    "Yes... Their sects are indeed enemies. Their founders were bitter enemies who had a feud with each other. The founder of the 14th and 15th team had killed the other''s brother. Ever since, they''ve been enemies. The feud was passed down to their disciples in the future. Each generation has fiercely competed with the other. They''ve fought numerous times in the Chaotic Areas leading to serious casualties including deaths. Sabotage, espionage, theft and other plots were used against each other to the point where the feud between them has become beyond reconciliation."


    She shared.


    "In that case, can we trust them?"


    Seileen asked.


    "Yes. We can. In this generation, the most prominent members of the 18th ranked team''s sect were injured during an expedition in one of the Chaotic Areas. You can easily guess who were the culprits. Thus, they''ve combat ability is lower than the 18th ranked teams."


    Luisa confirmed.


    "Thus, they''re willing to use any means to ensure that they fall. However, I''m afraid they might fail in their wish to defeat this time. But at the very least, they wish to sabotage their plans to reach the top."


    Lilia concluded.


    "I see... Then, there is nothing to fear. I will begin preparations to concoct the medicine at once. By tomorrow, you two should be able to initiate combat."


    Serra said.


    The rest cheered.


    They were relieved at this result.


    Speaking of which, they wouldn''t be this troubled if they had reserve members to fight with them. Unfortunately, they were unable to arrive. This is the reason why they were cornered this time around.


    The Morning of the Next Day.


    It was the match against Violet Ghosts.


    Seileen and Luisa were present however they were making grim expressions just like the rest.


    They were obviously faking it. But they intend to continue doing so to take the enemy by surprise.


    Inside, they were mocking them.


    The opponents were similar to the Green Ghosts. Except their robes were of a different color.


    Violet.


    Furthermore, they''re weapons were diverse.


    Spear, sword, scimitar, hammer, axe and dual blades.


    Serra went up first against a foe with a hammer.


    He faced his foe with his robes fluttering in the wind.


    "Hm... I''m up first? Let''s see how things go then..."


    Serra thought as he went up stage.


    The man was wearing heavy violet armor.


    He lifted his heavy sword as he stared at him.


    He was sneering coldly as he stared at the dainty young man in front of him.


    As soon as the referee gave the call, he charged forward.


    Seeing this, Serra readied his food and stepped forward.


    Upon his foot reaching the ground, the ground suddenly began to freeze turning into ice.


    His foe merely laughed as he continued to charge forward with momentum.


    "Got you."


    Serra spoke as he smiled.


    His foe looked at him as he smiled thinking something isn''t right and attempted to stop but he couldn¡¯t.


    His momentum carried him away as he slide through the ice.


    The ice was meant for him to lose his footing.


    Serra launched several ice balls filled with water high above.


    As the enemy attempted to stand up, the ice balls bombarded him from above.


    He was thoroughly drenched.


    "Now... You fall."


    The man attempted to struggle free as the ice began to freeze but to no avail.


    He lost just like that.


    "Victory to the 13th team!"


    The referee called out as he headed to his fallen foe and used his flames to unfreeze his foe.


    "You''re up next, Aies and Seileen..."


    He called out.


    The next match was Aies up against a man with dual blades.


    The four fought with equal skill for a time but Aies emerged victorious.


    In a surprising twist of fate, Aies made a feint and delivered a strong blow to his chest. The man hurriedly blocked with his two blades but that was a mistake. Both blades were smashed as he was sent flying.


    Seileen didn''t fight with all her might but she managed to hold down the other one.


    The next match was Lilia against a man with a spear.


    Lilia attempted to decisively claim victory but in the end, she lost.


    The two were equally matched but the opponent had a technique that gave him a slight edge. In the end, Lilia lost.


    She looked bitter at her defeat.


    But she left the stage.


    The opposing team wore smug looks and looks assured of victory.


    The Green Ghosts team were watching from the stadium also looked confident.


    The poison they used would definitely secure victory this round.


    Unfortunately, their hopes were dashed.


    Luisa fought in this round.


    She feigned weakness and allowed the opponent to play around with her for a bit.


    Then, when he attempted to deal the final blow when Luisa acted as if the poison was acting up, she suddenly delivered a strong blow against him.


    Taking advantage of his shock, she dealt out a severe blow.


    Securing a decisive victory against him.


    The two allied teams were shocked and livid with rage as Luisa looked down coldly upon them.


    "How...?"


    The man, seemingly their captain spoke.


    "Your team made far too many enemies. One of them, despite being a lower rank than you, was unwilling to see you have your way. Thus, they gave us the final ingredient we needed."


    Luisa answered.


    The man''s face turned to hatred as that answer.


    "Damm it! Who? Who gave you the last ingredient and helped you out!? That recipe was by no means easy to cure and the ingredients are simply too rare!"


    He spoke in disbelief.


    "Hmph. It would have been difficult to find all the ingredients. But did you forget this is the capital of the world? Such rare ingredients are easier to find here. It was our luck that we only had one final ingredient left to find. Something that your enemies delivered to us yesterday."


    Luisa left these final words then left as the man stared hatefully at her back.


    The team celebrated as they left the arena.


    While their enemies were sorrowful.


    In the arena, the 18th ranked team was sneering coldly as they stared at the defeated who hatefully made their way out.

 Chapter 79: Chance!

    Back in their base, the entire team was celebrating their success.


    "It was a splendid match! We won the fight!"


    Seileen called out.


    The rest cheered in response.


    "We had some setbacks but in the end, our plan is coming to fruition."


    Luisa spoke.


    "Yes... We should also try to help out the 18th ranked team sometime. If we can, we should."


    Lilia said.


    "Indeed, favors should be repaid. Our sect should foster some friendly ties with them in the future."


    Luisa agreed.


    There was no harm in forming friendship with another sect.


    Their relations with the Green Ghosts and Violet Ghosts from the Venomous Spirit Sect, the name of their sect, would worsen as a result though.


    But their relation was already bad to start with.


    Furthermore, they already knew of their reputation and held them in comtempt.


    "So... Our next priority should be to rest up and begin the next step of our plan."


    Lilia said.


    The rest nodded.


    "So, Aies, Luisa and Serra, how are you two holding up? My injuries are light and I should be at top performance tomorrow."


    Lilia asked.


    "I''m fine. I can fight well."


    "I''m alright."


    "I didn''t suffer any serious injuries so I should be able to fight well."


    They replied.


    "That''s good... Then, our next battle shall be tomorrow!"


    Lilia said resolutely.


    Their morale was at all-time high.


    This was so after claiming victory after a hard fought battle against a despicable foe.


    ......................


    Tomorrow, they challenged the 12th team.


    It was a difficult battle but they managed to clinch victory.


    Henceforth, their rank was 12th.


    They needed to rest up for the next battle.


    They didn''t need to worry though.


    The 14th ranked team needed 6 more days until they can challenge someone again.


    The former 12th team now ranked 13th already knew of their tactic so they won''t be easily fooled.


    As they say, the same trick doesn''t work twice.


    And so, they rested.


    Days passed as the city was still restless as numerous teams continued to struggle for the highest rank they could possibly attain.


    On the seventh day, Serra''s team challenged the 11th team and claimed victory as well.


    On the 8th day, they rested and received word that the Green Ghosts and Violet Ghosts dropped by a rank.


    They became the 16th and 17th team respectively.


    The one that defeated them was the former 18th team who swiftly rose through the rankings.


    They went to express their congratulations and Lilia stepped forward to discuss future dealings with them.


    They also expressed their gratitude towards their aid before.


    The two teams made merry and the dealings went smooth and pleasant.


    On the 11th day, they received some important intel that could be considered critical information.


    The 10th ranked team fought the 9th team and suffered a horrendous defeat.


    Their weakened team was ripe for the taking for either the 11th or 12th team.


    Fortunately, the 12th team was still facing the penalty of their loss.


    Thus, they had the opportunity.


    It might not be fair but it''s simply the way competitions work.


    They have no one to blame but themselves for their reckless decision to challenge a higher team.


    "Luisa, is this intel accurate??"


    Lilia asked Luisa seriously.


    "It is. Apparently, the 10th team had a particularly troublesome member that fell in love for a female member in the 9th team and thus issued a challenge without the other''s consent."


    Lilia wore a strange look.


    "Really? I can''t easily believe one of the top 10 have members that are idiots."


    But Luisa assured her.


    "It''s true.  That girl refused his advances and outright insulted him and kicked him aside. He became furious and wanted to get payback. The leader wanted to back out but they had to save face for their sect thus they had no choice but to proceed forward. Alas... The first match was participated by one of the girl''s teammates who happened to be her brother. Furious, he severely injured his foe which infuriated the rest which resulted in an all-out brawl." The main reason is that the one injured happened to be the leader''s brother."The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Luisa explained.


    "This... Is a great chance for us!"


    Lilia laughed as she felt excited. If they can take out the 10th team easily without taking too much damage they can fight the 9th ranked team and perhaps gain a higher position than what they were aiming for.


    "Still... Those two people were idiots. It''s hard to believe how lacking the leaders of both teams are and that there were idiots who didn''t know better."


    Luisa commented on them.


    The leaders who failed to settle things amicably and ended up letting the situation worsen further... The idiot who started a fight and the other idiot who severely injured the leader''s brother which started an all-out brawl.


    It''s also hard to believe that they didn''t have a person who kept a cool head and salvaged the situation to let both sides won''t take too much losses...


    This is a situation that could show why there''s a need for people who can look at the bigger picture and maintain their composure.


    Because there was no one to hold both sides down, the worst situation unfolded.


    Which happened to be the best and most favorable situation for their team.


    After all, when two forces clash leading to the worst situation where both sides are grievously injured, it''s the perfect time for a third party to attack both sides and reap the most rewards.


    "Don''t blame us for this. You brought this upon yourselves. Even if we didn''t act, the 12th team would act once they recover their injuries."


    Lilia said with a look of excitement.


    Lilia made an announcement to her companions the moment they all gathered to eat late at night.


    "Everyone, we received some critical information."


    She spoke.


    Everyone seemed serious.


    "Originally, we planned to fight the 1-th team during the final week so that when we do win, we would merely need to defend it from the 12th team."


    All present nodded.


    "I''m unsure if some of you heard the recent news but the 10th and 9th team are both severely injured."


    Everyone was surprised.


    "What happened? Was there some accident?"


    "No... In this city, if there were some serious accident hence we would already know and there wouldn''t be a need for this discussion."


    Aies asked but Seileen refuted it.


    "The 10th and 9th team had a conflict with each other that resulted in both teams fighting against each other. The conflict escalated resulting in both sides going all out. As you all know, the strength of the top 10 teams have minor differences and they could easily change. However, due to the relationships between their sects, they stay their hand for fear of gravely injuring any member and causing a rift in their relations."


    Lilia spoke.


    "Thus, the top 10 sects are usually predetermined. However, one of the sects was forced not to participate due to majority of their disciples facing grave injuries during a grave accident. Thus, the 10th rank has an outsider from those sects. That team picked a fight with the 9th team and the escalation resulted in grievous injuries for both sides. This information might be interesting to some but it only holds true value to us and those near those ranks. Specifically us, the 11th team, the 12th team and the other teams near us. The 8th to 1st teams are unaffected. Though they may be surprised, they ultimately won''t act because of their prestige and the rules of the tournament."


    As Lilia went on, the eyes of everyone involved began to shine.


    They knew what they had to do.


    "Thus, we will challenge the 10th team today. We can''t miss this opportunity."


    Lilia concluded.


    Seileen raised her hand.


    "Wait. If this happens, won''t the various sects hold us in contempt? We might offend them and our sect would be in dire straits if that happens."


    Seileen''s concern was a valid point.


    "That''s not a problem. The 10th team lost in their fight so they''re not part of the original top 10. If we do beat them, the other sects would probably hold us in a friendlier light."


    Luisa stepped forward to assure her.


    "I see. Very well."


    Seileen let out a sigh of relief.


    "Any objections?"


    Lilia asked as she swept her gaze towards them.


    "You said their fighting ability was severely reduced... But to what extent?"


    Serra asked.


    "That''s a valid question. Luisa, what''s their status?"


    Luisa took out a few scrolls and read.


    "According to the intel, of their 10 members, 7 have been severely injured while the rest have faced significant injuries. Thanks to the intervention of the elders, there were no cripples or those who lost their lives. For the 9th team... Despite their victory, they still have 9 members injured."


    Luisa stated.


    "Wait. Didn''t the 9th team claim victory? Why did they sustain even heavier injuries than the other team?"


    Aies asked.


    "Hm... It''s a bit complex but the reason for the strange difference in number is plainly because the 9th team resorted to drastic measures to keep their rank. They used some forbidden techniques or those above their cultivation that drastically increased their power or unleashed attacks beyond their current cultivation to claim victory. Frankly, they''re in an even worse state despite their victory."


    Luisa explained further.


    "I see... It wouldn''t do to harm our relations with other sects by taking advantage of such an event. We''ll only take on the 10th team."


    Seileen said.


    "Well then... Any more issues you''d like to address?"


    Lilia swept her gazed towards them again.


    No one spoke anymore words.


    "If none, then we will issue our challenge."


    Lilia concluded the meeting as she asked Luisa and Seileen to accompany her to issue the challenge.


    ............................................


    The residence of the 10th team.


    It was a rather luxurious mansion.


    Quite different from the base they were staying at.


    "...Our base could have been quite better if we actually spent money for it instead of just borrowing someone''s house."


    Seileen muttered.


    "Nothing we can do. We have to follow our customs and besides... We need to assure our own safety and other considerations."


    Lilia assured her.


    "Still... Wouldn''t it be better if we had the elders issue the challenge as per normal?"


    Seileen muttered another complaint.


    When issuing a challenge, it was fine to have an elder do it but it was also fine for them to issue the challenge themselves.


    "There''s the benefit of seeing their state ourselves and confirming our information."


    Luisa spoke behind her.


    "I guess so... Well then, shall we go?"


    Seileen spoke as she entered the mansion to speak with the team captain.


    "Indeed... Let''s greet our opponent. We decided to give our challenge ourselves. This might be the first and only time we do so. Thus, let''s give it properly."


    With that, they knocked on the door to.


    Knock! Knock! Knock!


    They soon heard the sound of footsteps coming towards them.


    The door opened slowly to reveal a young woman wearing a servant''s clothing.


    "Yes?"


    She addressed them respectfully.


    "We''re here to challenge the 10th team."


    Lilia stepped forward to announce their reason to visit.


    The maid was alarmed.


    "Please come with me."


    She spoke.


    As a servant, she knew of her master''s affairs and thus knew that they''re here to speak with her masters.


    They were led to the garden where a stern young man was waiting.


    "I''m the captain of the 10th team."


    He spoke as he eyed them sternly.


    "You are the captain of the 10th team?"


    Lilia asked.


    The man nodded.


    "I''m the captain of the 11th team. I''m here to challenge your team."


    Upon hearing her, the man nodded but looked quite bitter as well.


    "I heard you defeated the 12th team so they won''t be coming after us anytime soon so I expected you to come after us next. Not satisfied with the 11th rank and now you''re after our rank?"


    He asked.


    "That''s right. Our end goal has been the 10th rank all along. We would have issued our challenge eventually but this opportunity came so we simply miss it out."


    Lilia answered.


    The man let out a sigh.


    "Very well. We will accept your challenge. That battle was initiated by our side. It was our fault for this. Sigh.... If only that reckless fool didn''t start this mess in the first place then we wouldn''t be in this unfavorable position."


    The man spoke in anger.


    He knows that these people aren''t to blame.


    They cannot avoid this fight.


    "One question before we leave though. I can see you''re a calm and sensible man. So, how could you lose your calm and continue a reckless battle?"


    Lilia asked.


    The man looked surprised.


    "In this world, there are some things I can''t back down on. To see my blood-related brother severely injured before my eyes and the opportunity to attain revenge before me? It''s natural that I would feel enraged. After a few minutes, I regained my calm but seeing their arrogance and that there was a chance of victory, I was tempted to fight."


    Lilia nodded in understanding.


    "I see... Then, we''ll take our leave."


    She spoke in sympathy.


    In such a position where she saw that there was a clear chance of victory so long as they go all out, it was natural to feel tempted to attain victory.


    The man let out another sigh as he saw them leave.


    "Hmph... The 9th rank team... We might''ve lost but our injuries would soon heal. Beware our might. Soon, we''ll issue another challenge. But... will your injuries heal faster than ours? Just wait. The price of victory you paid today is far too grave... And it will cost you dearly soon..."


    He spoke menacingly.

 Chapter 80: Thoughts and Combat

    It was already dark when Lilia and the rest returned.


    Serra and Aies were waiting for them.


    "You''re back."


    They greeted them.


    "Did you gather any information from them?"


    Serra asked.


    "Not much. But judging from the captain''s expression, the information may truly be valid. He seemed to have expected us and anticipated our course of action."


    Lilia replied.


    "Did you actually see the rest of their team members?"


    Serra asked surprised.


    "We did not."


    Luisa replied.


    "Hm... Then we''d better prepare ourselves. If the information is truly false, then we''ll have to fight while holding our trump cards back. We''ll return to our first plan and initiate a challenge again on the final week."


    Serra said.


    "That''s the correct course of action. There''s not much to do left but we can''t relax our guard. Let''s eat first though. I''m excited for tomorrow!"


    Seileen cut in between them.


    "Sure. I''ve already prepared our dinner. Aies and I were still eating when you three returned."


    Serra casually replied.


    "Good. Then the food must still be hot."


    Seileen spoke happily.


    The trio joined them for dinner and they began to chat about today''s events.


    "Hm... The taste of the food is better than usual."


    Luisa commented.


    "True... It''s better than before. What''s the difference?"


    Seileen asked.


    "Oh. That''s easy. Serra found some rather rare ingredients and spices this afternoon and bought them."


    Aies answered.


    "Oh? You have an impressive repertoire."


    Lilia praised.


    "Haha... The ingredients are rather similar to the ones found in my hometown so I went ahead and bought them."


    Serra happily replied.


    "Oh? Your hometown?"


    Lilia and Luisa were interested in this.


    They failed to find any mention of where Serra originated from after all.


    "Well... My hometown suffered a calamity and was destroyed. It''s being rebuilt right now but it''ll take a bit more time to repair it."


    Serra said.


    "I see... Sorry to hear that."


    Lilia replied in understanding.


    Perhaps that''s why we failed to discover anything... It''s a ruined town undergoing repairs...


    "Since it''s being repaired, why don''t you take us there to go sight seeing someday?"


    Aies spoke.


    "Hm? I don''t mind but it''s a rather far away place..."


    Serra said.


    "Really? That''s alright! We''ll head over even if it''s mountains and seas apart!"


    Aies spoke excitedly without thinking.


    Serra smiled wryly.


    "Well... I guess I''ll escort you guys there but keep it a secret about how we head over and where it is though."


    It''s literally worlds apart, my dear...


    Serra thought to himself.


    The others agreed to join as well.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    They''re interested where the place is.


    They soon finished their meal and headed to their rooms.


    As soon as Serra headed back into his room, he began contemplating the discussion back then.


    "Hm... Given my status, I can''t really disregard my promise. I guess I''ll reveal my true identity in the future when we head out of this city."


    He thought to himself.


    "Perhaps I''ll even bring along Ren along with us to see my hometown."


    There should be no problems with a short visit.


    Ren is the pillar of this world.


    A mental pillar of support that deters chaos and evil.


    So long as Ren, a powerful cultivator who lived for countless years exist, that pressure will weight upon those who seek to sow chaos on this world.


    Though there are many righteous sects and organizations that help keep the peace and slay villains, they''re merely small time characters. Only someone with a presence as immense as Ren could peace truly be kept.


    Before dragons, snakes and rats are merely creatures that could only submit or die before him.


    Only true dragons such as mighty sects could contend with it.


    After all, while ants could kill an elephant with enough numbers, they can never reach the dragons that soar the sky. It''s how sharks can''t kill tigers on land. It''s simply a matter of being dimensions apart.


    "Only a short visit then. This world is indeed peaceful and quite stable but there are some troublesome factors and ambitious warlords hoping to build kingdoms and empires of their own. It''s only with the presence of an absolute deterrence would they ensure they don''t go too far out of line."


    After thinking some more, Serra decided to take all four girls and Ren on a short visit to his world.


    It was the morning of a new day.


    Lilia and her team were already rested and prepared to do battle.


    "Is everyone ready?"


    She asked them.


    They all nodded.


    No more words was necessary.


    "Well then... Let''s go take them down!"


    She spoke out.


    And thus, they all headed towards the arena.


    .......................................................................


    Within an hour, they reached the arena.


    "It''s pretty crowded."


    Aies commented.


    "That''s natural. Although all the battles between the various teams would attract a lot of spectators, it''s the top 10 teams who could truly bring out an entire crowd."


    Seileen casually spoke.


    "True. Battles involving the top 10 are the most eye-catching of them all and determine who can truly stand out on top."


    Luisa added.


    "I suppose we should be proud of ourselves to have reached this far. It''s an honor."


    Lilia spoke with emotion.


    "Come now. We might as well win it now, shouldn''t we? I mean, it would be a shame if we didn''t."


    Seileen happily said while nudging Lilia''s back.


    "Hey!"


    Lilia pouted.


    "Hahaha!"


    Seileen merely laughed it off.


    "Be more serious, you two."


    Lilia sternly called them out.


    "It appears our opponents are ready."


    Serra said as he gazed ahead of the arena.


    In the enemy team, there were only five people.


    "That''s the captain."


    Lilia noted as she saw a familiar figure within the enemy ranks.


    The stern young man waved towards them.


    "Hm? Is there something he wants to say?"


    Seileen also saw.


    "I''ll listen to what he has to say."


    After thinking about it for a moment, Lilia decided to go.


    "Is there something you need?"


    Lilia asked.


    "We just want to discuss terms with you."


    Lilia raised an eyebrow to that.


    "Terms?"


    He went straight to the point.


    "For the match... we lack suitable members to do battle. Therefore, we will only have three battles. If you win two of them, you win."


    He proposed.


    "You don''t have enough members to host the remaining battles?"


    She asked.


    The man nodded.


    "Yes. So, will you agree?"


    Lilia nodded swiftly.


    This battle was an easy win if that''s the case.


    "We understand. We''ll fight you with everything we''ve got for this battle."


    Lilia spoke on behalf of her team.


    As the captain, she has that right.


    The two nodded and exchanged a handshake.


    Lilia headed back to her team.


    She explained what happened.


    "In that case, we should send out our strongest fighter from the start and end it in one battle to save both teams time and effort."


    Luisa assented.


    "I agree! Let Luisa go."


    "True! Senior Sister Luisa is the strongest among us. Let her go!"


    "Yes! Let''s settle this fast!"


    The team agreed.


    "Very well. I''ll go."


    Luisa spoke out.


    "For the next two battles, Seileen and Serra shall go. For the third battle, Lilia shall go."


    It was a reasonable verdict. Seileen possesses skill and speed while Serra can support her and provide defence.


    Lilia was the strongest after Luisa so she was next.


    The rest didn''t have any complaints about the roster and Luisa ascended the stage.


    Against her, the opposing team sent out a tall and lanky young man carrying two daggers with chains attached.


    "You are... If I recall, you''re the one who started the battle with the 9th team?"


    Luisa asked curiously.


    The man nodded bitterly.


    "Yep. What a fool I was. Lucky I''m still up and at it. But I''ve still got scars to show."


    He replied bluntly.


    "I see. I have nothing to say to you. Let''s start."


    Luisa had no interest in a fool who dragged his team down because of his own lust.


    The man let out a weak laughter.


    The referee soon came and gave out the signal to do battle.


    The moment the signal was released, the lanky youth threw out his daggers with chains attached towards Luisa.


    Their tips glowing red.


    Gazing at those daggers seriously, Luisa treated them as a threat and dodged to the left.


    Noticing her movement, he retracted his daggers swiftly and they returned to him immediately.


    He sent out red sword-lights towards the direction where Luisa was headed to.


    As soon as the sword-lights reached near her, they were repelled by a pink barrier.


    Luisa charged towards the lanky youth immediately as they were repelled.


    Watching her cautiously, he hurriedly retracted his daggers once more and grasped them in a manner where he can stab the enemy and charged forward with his daggers raised high.


    Luisa waved her fan and swung it towards him.


    A blue light headed towards him.


    He jumped up.


    Luisa''s eyes shone.


    The blue light suddenly reversed and flew towards him.


    Shocked, he covered himself with his arms to block the attack.


    "Argh!"


    He let out a muffled cry as the blue light exploded and blood splattered on the ground.


    The lanky youth looked at her miserably as he spat out blood.


    Not missing a beat Luisa charged out towards him while unleashing a familiar blue light towards him.


    Wary of the swordlights she could control, he sent out his own swordlights to counter them.


    Despite suffering injuries, his combat ability wasn''t affected.


    Soon, Luisa reached him.


    Her blue fan reached him with its bladed tips.


    The youth countered her with his own blades and the two engaged in close combat.


    However, Luisa was superior to him.


    Soon, cuts appeared on his body as Luisa gained momentum.


    Raising her leg, she kicked him in the stomach and sent him flying.


    She unleashed a barrage of blue lights towards him which exploded dealing him severe injuries as he miserably flew out.


    Luisa chased him.


    Then, she jumped and stomped on his body.


    She drew her fan and lunged it towards him just stopping by his neck.


    The man laughed.


    "I admit defeat."


    He called out weakly.

 Chapter 81: Outcome

    The first battle was decided easily.


    Lilia''s team rejoiced while the enemy team had bitter expressions.


    Their captain didn''t show any expression though.


    The lanky youth returned to his team wearing a bitter smile on his face.


    "Sigh... I expected this outcome. At least you put up a good fight."


    He consoled him.


    Despite the setbacks and failures this man had done, he was still a part of his team. Furthermore, the event helped him grow much more mature.


    "You two, it''s your turn. Go."


    He called out to two young women behind him.


    Two women of identical looks walked out to the stage.


    "Twins?"


    Serra called out.


    Indeed. They were identical twins.


    They looked exactly the same.


    If there was anything to differ them, one of them wielded two swords while the other wielded a spear.


    "Hm... In terms of equipment, we''re disadvantaged. So, our tactic is for me to face two of them with you supporting me?"


    Seileen asked.


    "Yes. I''ll strive to create an opportunity to finish one of them off. I''ll block the other one as you strike the other one off stage."


    Serra said.


    Seileen nodded.


    "Got it."


    The four took their stances.


    The twins were side-by-side while Serra was behind Seileen.


    As soon as the signal was released, Serra froze the ground then unleashed his familiar ice balls towards the twins.


    Wary of them, the twins dodged with ease.


    "Hm... This will be difficult."


    Serra spoke.


    "Freeze the ground instead!"


    Seileen suggested.


    "Got it."


    Serra nodded.


    Unleashing his skill, he swiftly froze the ground.


    The twins stopped moving.


    One of them raised her spear and a fiery red glow covered it.


    "Fire? Oh dear. The ice won''t hold them off for long."


    Serra called out alarmed.


    "Not if I can help it!"


    Seileen unleashed several spear-lights towards them.


    But the other twin blocked them with her own sword-lights.


    Seileen frowned as she continued to unleash them in a desperate attempt to hold the other twin off from unleashing her skill.


    Alas, it was useless.


    The twin completed her skill and stabbed it to the ground.


    The flames rushed towards them.Stolen novel; please report.


    It also thawed out the ice on the ground.


    As the might spear-light headed out to them, the two dodged.


    "Close combat is unavoidable? It appears we can''t face them off in the manner we agreed on. I''ll take on the spear user while you deal with the twin sword user."


    Serra said.


    Seileen nodded.


    "Here they come!"


    Serra spoke as they reached them.


    Seileen charged towards the twin sword user while Serra bombarded the spear user with his ice balls.


    He gathered his ki and formed a sword and shield of ice.


    Equipping them, he faced off against the spear user.


    The four unleashed their skills as they fought on the field.


    Serra used his shield to block off the attacks as he moved forward.


    Seileen kept her distance as she continuously stabbed forward.


    They were stuck in a stale mate.


    As they kept up the battle, the tide of battle favored Serra''s team.


    Serra created an ice ledge where the spear user tripped.


    Making use of this, he threw his sword towards her.


    His sword wasn''t just some lump of ice.


    The moment it reached her, it exploded.


    Freezing her.


    Although it didn''t freeze her entire body, the ice has rendered her incapable of combat.


    "Sister!"


    The twin sword user called out in alarm.


    "Don''t get distracted now!"


    Seileen called out with a grin.


    She stabbed out and pierced her shoulder.


    "Urk!"


    She cried out in pain.


    "You''ve lost."


    Seileen called out.


    Looking bitter, the girl nodded as she saw that she can''t beat her with Serra supporting her.


    Lilia and the rest cried out in victory while the enemy had bitter faces at the outcome.


    Letting out a sigh, the enemy captain stepped forward and expressed his intention to surrender.


    The referee announced his decision and the battle concluded.


    The enemy captain looking bitter stepped forward.


    "Congratulations on your victory."


    He spoke bitterly.


    "Thank you."


    Lilia said solemnly.


    "No, you''ve earned this victory. But beware, there is still a chance for us to reclaim our rank."


    He warned.


    Lilia was taken back.


    There was still unwillingness and a will to fight present in his eyes.


    He still hasn''t given up.


    He might come for us soon. And after that, he''ll come after the 9th seat...


    Lilia thought.


    But smiling back with a fierce light in her eyes, Lilia merely laughed.


    "Then, we''ll wait for you. We''ll defend our place with everything we''ve got."


    The man laughed.


    "Good! But if you want to face us again, it''ll be you challenging us."


    He smiled mysteriously.


    "What?"


    Lilia was puzzled.


    They were ahead of them.


    As a higher ranked team, they didn''t have the right to challenge one ranked below them.


    Leaving the puzzled Lilia, the man laughed then left.


    ................................


    "What do you think he means?"


    Lilia asked the group amidst their celebrations in the base.


    Despite their victory, Lilia was concerned about those words.


    "With the rules in mind, they might be planning to challenge the 9th team."


    Luisa replied.


    "What? Challenge the 9th team? Didn''t they just lost?"


    Aies asked.


    "I don''t know what gives them confidence of victory. But they must have enmity still with the 9th team and after battling them, they created a plan for sure victory."


    Luisa analyzed.


    "...Seriously? That brings trouble to us then."


    Lilia was worried.


    "No... They still need to recover their injuries and a week isn''t enough for that. We could challenge the 9th team as well but I doubt they''d go down easy."


    Seileen said.


    "No. It''s better not to. It''s enough for us to take this spot. Recklessly challenging a team we''re not confident of beating would just give us trouble. Furthermore, that warning might be a bluff. Something to put us in a state of carelessness. We have enough trouble holding our own rank. Let''s focus on defending our rank."


    Luisa advised.


    The rest nodded including Aies.


    She might be childish but she''s not a fool.


    "Then, let''s wait for things to unfold."


    Serra suggested.


    The rest agreed.


    They''ll see how things play out.


    They''ll also keep tabs on the 11th and 12th team. They''re the ones they have to watch out for.


    ...........................


    Days passed and the battles between the various teams began to conclude as the final rankings were starting to get finalized.


    The teams now knew the strength of the other teams and knew where their ranks lay.


    They understood their limits.


    Things have at last began to calm down except for a few battles between unwilling teams who have yet to give up.


    But for the most part, things were quiet.


    Various teams were just waiting for the month to end and the rankings to finalize at last before they go home.


    Some teams were even treating the tournament as finished and just enjoying themselves. Treating the entire time they have left as a vacation.


    Others took the opportunity to make allies and connections while some went shopping to look for artifacts or materials.


    It was still lively.


    But as days passed into weeks, some changes came at last.


    The Green Ghosts and Violet Ghosts were surpassed by the team that aided Serra''s group becoming the 13th team.


    Serra and the rest came to offer their congratulations.


    After that, when the month was starting to end, the 11th team challenged the 9th team and won.


    As per the rules, their ranks were switched.


    Serra''s team remained 10th while the former 9th ranked team was delegated to 11th team. The most vexing matter was that they can no longer challenge them since before the week ended, the tournament would.


    Defeated teams must wait for one week before they can issue another challenge leaving that team filled with unwillingness.


    This matter shocked the various teams.


    The 9th team suffered grievous injuries and could not recover their strength fast.


    While the 11th team had fully recovered theirs. As a result, they lost to the fully rejuvenated 11th team.


    This change of ranks was the last.


    The month ended at last and the final rankings were finalized to the delight of the top teams and the sorrow of the defeated teams still grieving.


    While alliances were made, there were some grudges newly made that would carry on to the next tournament.

 Chapter 82: End and Reunion

    When the city announcement came, all teams willing or unwilling headed towards the Founder''s Castle to receive their awards. Lilia and her sect members had already sent word of their success and their sect was rejoicing.


    In the Castle, there were some who were content with their ranks as they had achieved a satisfactory performance. There were some who were proud at reaching a rank higher than they anticipated.


    But others were grieving. They fell from their ranks and failed to get the honors they should have.


    The 11th team is among them. Formerly a top 10 contender but forced off it''s stage so easily like this.


    As they were all gathered, the City Lord and a group of elders came.


    Serra could see Lezner as well as the other proctors who held the tests appear there.


    Lezner was wearing a large elders robe which strangely didn''t seem to fit him.


    But it just didn''t suit him...


    Seeing a musclehead wear a gentleman''s clothes which didn''t suit him given his character would be a good comparison.


    No, isn''t that exactly what this is?


    Not paying attention to such trifles, the City Lord began his speech.


    "Welcome, to the top 50 teams who stand before me now. You have attained great glory as the most talented youths in the entire world. As the City Lord, I offer my congratulations to all of you who have passed rigorous trials and defeated numerous foes to be in where you stand today."


    He started.


    "There are some who rejoice and some who grieve. The rules of the tournament are fair and monitored by us. Therefore, do you feel that you did not reach the rank you were supposed to gain? Then save your tears. Do not lament your fate. Be hungry. The next tournament will soon commence within 3 years. At that time, some of you would not be able to participate but quite a number of you will definitely do. Therefore... Be hungry!"


    He shouted.


    "Don''t be satisfied with what you have. Continue to aim for a higher goal. Do not slacken your efforts to become the strongest. The world is a cruel one. Where the strong shall live and the weak shall perish. A world where one must continue to step on others to succeed. History remembers the victors and not the vanquished."


    He took a deep breath.


    "Just like you all, I too, once fought in the tournament. I once reached the greatest honor. However, I slacked off believing I was the strongest. In the next tournament, my crown was claimed from me by one even stronger. Never be complacent. For when you do, the countless others beneath you shall claim your throne from behind."


    He warned them.


    After that, he spoke a few more words then started the awards ceremony.


    They started from calling the ranked 50th team and gave them lavish rewards.


    As they called one team after another, they gave rewards better than the last.


    But when they reached the 10th team, Serra''s team, they stopped.


    The City Lord came forward once more.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    "I give my earnest praise to the youths who achieved the top 50. However, the awards the top 10 shall receive shall not be granted here."


    He spoke.


    With that, he led the top 10 teams inside the castle while the other teams looked on with envy towards them.


    Envy and praise.


    The top 10 teams would receive rewards that couldn''t be compared to the top 50 teams.


    Lilia''s team and the rest passed through many lavish halls and many powerful experts before reaching the grand hall.


    There, the Founder awaited them.


    Wearing an amiable and humble smile while wearing gray robes, Ren Winterclaw, founder of the empire stood.


    Upon reaching the site, the 10 teams all bowed respectfully. Their eyes filled with awe and worship.


    They all revered the great leader who led their empire to prosper for countless years.


    "Well done. All of you."


    He spoke in an ancient voice.


    "You have earned my praise for prevailing over all the trials you''ve faced. As a reward for your victory, I will personally give your rewards."


    He swept his gaze towards all of them before stopping on one boy.


    His gaze landed on Serra.


    Serra merely smiled as the former was extremely shocked.


    Within that moment, Serra acted.


    A blue light enveloped the world without them realizing it.


    Everything within that light, be it people, magical beasts and other races were frozen entirely.


    Rather, frozen in time.


    "It has been a while. My old disciple."


    Serra spoke with nostalgia.


    At once, the old man felt tears dripping in his eyes.


    He could never forget even with the passage of time through countless years.


    His teacher''s face, his aura nor his voice.


    Those clear blue eyes shone with a strong light just as they had thousands of years ago.


    Ren bowed.


    "It has been a long time. Teacher."


    Serra laughed.


    "I''m proud of you. My old disciple. I did not expect you to conquer this world given your strength back then. Your potential is truly tremendous."


    Serra praised.


    "Not at all."


    Ren spoke humbly.


    He was delighted to see his master once more after countless years.


    "I have already attained the pinnacle of cultivation. In the countless worlds, I have met only three who could be called my equal. And in that great amount of time, I have met many wonderful individuals. Many of whom I took on as my disciples. You number among them."


    Ren nodded.


    "I''d have liked to meet you sson, but I was interested in seeing the abilities of the cultivators of this world. I''m quite satisfied with their ability."


    Ren laughed.


    "I''m glad to hear that."


    Serra smiled.


    "This is a beautiful world. You''ve done well to secure it''s a place I can return to at anytime. You''ve put an end to the  chaos and doused the flames of war. It''s a wonderful place."


    Serra praised.


    "It was my dream. I only wished to realize it. To make a place you could return to at anytime... Was merely something I wished to accomplish alongside my dream."


    Ren spoke.


    "A dream? Ah yes... You''ve always spoke about how you''d make a peaceful world one day. That you''ll put an end to all the wars and suffering. You''ve always dreamt of a peaceful world. I''m proud to see that you''ve realized your fondest wish."


    Serra spoke with praise and pride.


    He was proud to have a disciple who achieved so much. Someone who realized his dreams was worthy of admiration.


    Especially so with a dream of realizing a peaceful world.


    "Now then... I''d like you to arrange a meeting between my current companions. I''ll take you all with me to visit my homeworld."


    Serra said.


    Ren was surprised.


    "Your world?"


    His master''s world?


    He''d gladly go.


    "While we''re at it, I''ll teach you further. With your current level of cultivation, you should one day go and see the Higher Realms. To the place where the strongest cultivators of countless worlds gather to one day seek the pinnacle of cultivation just I have."


    As Serra spoke, a flame within Ren''s heart resurfaced.


    "The Higher Realms...? I''''ve heard much about this from you before..."


    Ren spoke.


    "That''s right. I did tell you about it, didn''t I? Still, perhaps it would be for the best that you reach that realm on your strength."


    But would Ren head to such a world despite living as the strongest in this world?


    He is living a life of luxury here.


    Revered as the world''s strongest.


    To head there and start over and aim for the pinnacle of cultivation?


    "Please guide me master. I wish to reach that realm on my own."


    Ren answered without hesitation.


    Serra''s words lit a flame within his heart.


    As a cultivator, Ren hoped to one day reach the pinnacle and stand on the same summit as his master.


    Life here has become quite dull.


    Ren would gladly leave it after making the proper preparations and head to a wider world.


    Serra nodded his head in praise.


    He was proud to have such a disciple.


    After that, Serra and Ren discussed many things and many stories were shared.


    Serra shared his stories regarding the Higher Realms and his companions.

 Chapter 83: Fin

    After chatting for some time, Serra returned to his original place and unsealed the frozen world.


    Everyone didn''t notice anything out of place a few looked towards Ren and found that he seemed brighter than usual.


    He looked quite content.


    Is he satisfied with this batch of champions?


    They wondered.


    Those who came upon this thought were proud.


    They were able to earn the acknowledgement of the Founder.


    After some trivial talk, Ren gave the rewards to the victors.


    He called them all and gave them their rewards.


    Of course, he called a representative to claim the rewards.


    It would appear quite undignified if the entire team came instead of just one.


    So, they each sent out their captains to go.


    Naturally, Lilia went.


    After giving the rewards, Ren gave out a closing speech.


    "To all of you gathered here, you are the brightest stars of the generation. The elites of the elite. The jewels of the Empire. No, the world. Know well that the future of the world may soon la on your shoulders."


    He spoke in an imposing voice.


    "True, I may indeed be the ruler of this world. The one who extinguished the flames of war. The one who brought and end to the era of chaos and brought an era of prosperity and peace on the lands."


    He continued.


    "However, I am old. I am simply a deterrence to rebellions and the ilk. Thought I may possess eternal life. There is still a chance that an era of chaos may one day arrive. Though I will ensure that such things will not happen, I cannot guarantee alone that I can do so. Even back then, I had companions I could trust and a teacher who guided me. A pillar who stands alone is weak!"


    He shouted.


    His voice echoing into their minds.


    "What this world needs are multiple pillars. For this world will fall as I fall. And with it, the fates of countless living souls of the Empire. Though you are all young, you are the cream of the crop who will one day rule and lead your sects under your wings. As the Emperor, I must pave the way for others to rise. Alas, I cannot rule over everything and place the entire world under observatioin. For that is tyranny. A path of cruelty."


    His voice continued to be etched into their minds.


    "My duty is to ensure the world prospers. However, alone, I can do little. To forcefully use my own power to achieve this goes against natural order. It is through the hands of others that this world prospers. In the past, the leaders of various sects led their brothers and sisters to protect and defend the land. It is through the combine efforts of the Empire as a whole that this world is at peace. Remember that as you go forward on your paths."


    His voice echoed out.


    "And remember this, cultivators pursue the path of cultivation like moths to the flame. They possess a flame of life. So long as that flame burns, they will never falter. For what reason? It is because of their beliefs. To follow their hearts and bring their ideals into reality. All to refine their souls. Such is the flame of life. That is all."


    Finishing his speech, the Founder left the overwhelmed younger generation.


    His worlds also lit a flame of resolution within their eyes as well as a sense of duty and expectation upon their shoulders.


    """For the Empire! Glory to the Founder!"""


    They shouted.


    After that, they all left burning with spirit.


    A flame has been lit within their souls. They will waste not a second later to hone their skills and their souls.


    ........................


    "This is where we part ways then."


    Serra said to the group.


    The others showes e expressions of sorrow and understanding.


    "You really have to go?"


    Lilia spoke.


    "Yes. I must go back home soon."


    It couldn''t be helped.


    Serra fought with them and achieved victory and glory along with them.


    He was a true friend and comrade-in-arms for them.


    A brother they could rely on.


    "You can''t stay with us some more time? Since the tournament is over, we should celebrate our success and enjoy our time in the capital."


    Seileen said.


    "Hm... True... We were always rushing and preparing for battle... We never enjoyed ourselves and have fun..."


    Serra pondered.


    Aies interjected.


    "Then, let''s go prepare and have fun!"


    She dashed forward.


    "Hahaha... That girl is truly like a child despite being the same age as us."A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Seileen spoke with a smile


    The rest agreed amidst sounds of laughter through the air.


    "Well then... Let''s go. Let''s enjoy ourselves as the victors!"


    Lilia announced as captain of her group.


    The rest nodded and they went after Aies.


    After that... Serra and the girls had fun in the Capital. They visited museums, attended concerts, saw the toursites in the Capital, dined on fine food and had the time of their lives.


    Finally, they all went and retired for the night one final time in their base.


    ..............


    Nightfall. Serra''s Room.


    "That was fun."


    Serra thought.


    He remembered the times he left his house and played with his friends.


    They were so noisy. They went and played everywhere.


    He also envied and admired the bond Lilia shared with her sect sisters.


    They were just like Serra and his own band of friends back then.


    Upon reaching those memories, many memories of the past flooded in.


    Serra remembered his own sect borthers and sisters who fought with him and laughed together with him.


    His eccentric master James who loved tea and books so much that he forgot to sleep at times.


    His old rival Andre who feuded with im so many times but was ultimately his friend.


    His senior brother Jaco who was quite lazy but was quite kind and caring.


    "They were good people... It''s a pty they all died in the end... What I grieve for the most is that even with all the power to rule worlds, I can''t bring back the ones I held dear..."


    Serra spoke in a sorrowful voice.


    James defended the sect to his last breath and died with it to hold back the enemies coming for them.


    He remembered his miserable smile as he grieved the fact that he couldn''t finish the new book he bought.


    Andre was severely injured and was escaping with him but decided to stay behind to give them enough time to run.


    His laugher as he rushed towards his enemies only to die was something he could never forget.


    And Jaco... His lazy but caring senior was kind and caring to the end.


    He would always remember his back that seemed so large as he fought outnumbered and overwhelmed.


    Even with all the power in the world, he would gladly give it all just so he could reunite with them once more.


    Alas... He will never be able to join them as he is immortal.


    That''s why he envies them so.


    His only relief is that his daughter and his wife as well as a few brothers and sisters he made during his travels on the Higher Realms are still alive.


    "...Seileen, Luisa, Aies and Lilia... I''ll reveal myself to you. I''ll allow you to visit my world come with me  to my world only for a day.Whether or not we can  meet again will depend on talents though... Whether or not you can break the limits of your mortal selves and ascend to the Higher Realms. When you do... I''ll be waiting..."


    Serra called out softly.


    <hr>


    Before they left, Serra asked everyone to gather in the living room.


    "So, what is it you want to talk about, Serra?"


    They asked.


    "Very simple. I had fun travelling with you all and fighting alongside you. It reminds me of those times when I fought alongside my brothers and sisters who have long since turned to ash."


    Serra spoke calmly.


    "That''s why, I''ll reveal myself to you now."


    He spoke.


    Then, he released his power so that they could feel it but restricted it only to those around the room.


    "What...?"


    "Eh!?"


    "!?"


    They were alarmed.


    "I am Serra Recquir. An apex expert who comes from another world... I am Ren''s master."


    He introduced himself to their shock.


    "What!?"


    Lilia exclaimed.


    The rest shared the same sentiments.


    The youth who fought alongside them was actually the senior who guided the Founder!?


    "Wait... Then, is your appearance a fake!?"


    Lilia called out.


    "Ah, this is my real and genuine appearance. In some realms, cultivation is far more advanced. There are some youths who reached the same realm as Ren despite not being as old as him. Those who reach those stages usually keep their appearances from when they broke through."


    Serra casually explained.


    He then went on to explain things like the Higher Planes and other stuff about cultivation.


    The rest calmed down.


    "I''m surprised. We all thought that revered expert was a venerable old man. Who knew it would be a youth like you..."


    Luisa said in surprise.


    "Age has nothing to do with one''s abilities. Only true strength is worthy."


    Serra said.


    "I have my reasons for travelling with you all and fighting with you. I''ve already achieved it but there are some things I need to do first. Lilia, Aies, Seileen and Luisa... A a senior, I should reward you all with something."


    He cast a blue light that enveloped them all.


    When the light faded, the four checked on themselves to find nothing there.


    However, they soon found a mark near at their backs.


    It was the symbol of a town covered in snow.


    "This is my gift to you all. This should boost your cultivations that you should be able to reach the same realm as Ren one day. Furthermore, it will also give you the knowledge about the Higher Realms."


    Serra explained to them.


    The four thanked him gratefully.


    This will be greatly benefit their cultivation in the future.


    "Now then, will you come with me to visit my world now?"


    Serra asked them.


    "What?"


    They were puzzled.


    "Since you said you''d like to visit my home, I''ll take you there for a visit. But know that it isn''t as advanced as this world now. It used to be quite advanced during my generation but wane comes after apex so it''s quite below this world in terms of technology and cultivation."


    Serra explained.


    "...I see..."


    Lilia said.


    The four of them went into deep though.


    Finally, they raised their heads and looked at each other¡¯s eyes.


    """We refuse!"""


    They said simultaneously.


    "Oh? Why?"


    They spoke out.


    "Simple. Since we could travel to the Higher Planes one day then we could definitely visit your world as well. We''ll save that time for the day we do arrive."


    Lilia called out.


    "That''s correct. With your guidance, we''ll definitely be able to go there."


    Sileen said.


    "Hahaha, we have our pride too! Just wait for us there."


    Aies happily spoke with pride.


    "Since you''re already thousands of years old, you can wait for us."


    Luisa spoke calmly.


    Serra laughed happily.


    "I see... A good attitude to have. This is the attitude experts should have!"


    He was satisfied with their response.


    Afterwards, they chatted a bit more and Serra shared stories about other worlds that broadened their horizons.


    When the time came for them to part, they did so happily.


    Lilia went to Serra and said this.


    "This is goodbye for now. We''ll meet you again one day."


    She said.


    "I''m counting on it."


    Serra spoke with a smile.


    Lilia and the rest left with their carriage while Serra returned to the base they were in previosly.


    All of the belongings that belonged to Lilia and her friends were gone.


    "Well now... It''s time for me to leave as well."


    Serra took the cooking tools, leftover ingredients and the materials he gained from his trip here.


    He looked at the house where he stayed with the others and said.


    "This was quite fun... It''s just like those days in the past... My sect sisters and brothers were just like those girls... A pity that all things must come to an end..."


    He spoke softly.


    "Now... It''s time for me to go. I''m glad I have more things to look forward to now... I hope I''ll see you again. You girls..."


    He spoke.


    A blue light enveloped him and he departed the world.


    ........................


    Sometime later, he returned to his world.


    His wife, Aura Autumn, greeted him.


    "She hugged him and gave him a long kiss.


    "Welcome home, dear."


    She spoke sweetly.


    "Thanks for watching over the place."


    Serra said.


    "Don''t mind it. I''m your wife, aren''t I? It''s the woman''s job to watch over the house so the husband could return."


    Aura puffed her chest with pride as she said this.


    "Speaking of which, should we also find our daughter later?"


    He asked.


    "Liliana could handle herself. But it would be nice to see her again... Our darling child..."


    She spoke sweetly.


    As a mother, she was proud of her daughter and her personality.


    "Speaking of which... We really don''t have much to do anymore, don''t we?"


    Serra spoke out.


    "Yes, dear?"


    Serra looked into his wife''s eyes and said.


    "But it doesn''t really matter. Now that we''ve reached the apex, it''s time to find a new pursuit. Something for us to do. Let''s stay here together from now on."


    Serra smiled warmly at his wife''s face.


    Aura hugged him and said.


    "Yes... I''d like that as well."


    Serra smiled then gazed towards the sun.


    The sun was finally going to set.


    "The sun will set, heralding the arrival of night. But the sun will rise again soon... Now, let''s go!"


    A blue light covered them both as they faded into the horizon along with the final fleeting rays of the sun.


    The daytime has come to an end bringing with it the night.


    But morning will come again.


    A new day will start after a moment''s rest.


    Giving others hope for the future.

 Authors Note

    Good evening everyone. I say good evening mainly because it''s currently evening where I''m in. First of all, I''m very grateful to everyone who read my story and supported me. I''m also grateful to SOUFDEBOEF and XENOFIXUS for their reviews. I learned a lot in this novel. And I realized how much mistakes I made in making this novel.


    Making a novel is similar to cooking. Novels and stories are food for the mind. We can''t help but savor it like we would our favorite dish. There are different flavors as well... Bitter flavors of Tragedy and Horror, Bittersweet flavors of Romance, Savory flavors of Adventure and many more.


    While such flavors are indeed delicious, they also need a delicate touch in making them. Authors are like cooks. When making a dish, they need the proper cooking tools, seasoning and considerations for their customers. Failing to properly handle the food leads to disaster such as what I did.


    I didn''t prepare the setting carefully enough... I made light of wuxia novels. My naive thoughts could be considered like this... "Since I''m writing a wuxia novel where the mc has already reached the apex, there''s no need to create a proper cultivation system.".The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    And I payed the price for it. During my novels, I found that a cultivation system needs to be systemized with increasing difficulty in each step and enough complexity for the need for research and study. If the only thing one needs to do is work hard without the need for combat and other resources, then doesn''t that mean anyone and everyone can reach the apex? No, I need it to be more difficulty. Mysterious and complex otherwise it''ll be ridiculous. What I did was realize my mistake and attempt to fix it and ended up with a system with a combination of Coiling Dragon and Heavenly Jewel Change mechanics...


    How did it come to this...?


    I also failed a bit when making the mc nature. I wanted him to a mild and friendly youth but ended up with a bland personality... Hm... Aside from dialogue, character natures and other stuff, I guess I don''t have much left to add.


    Well then, that''s enough from me. Thank you once more for everything. I hope to meet you again on my next novel... Also, please check Malicious Empress Redemption. It''s a oneshot novel I made after some inspiration from Yoraikun.