《Dark Embers》 Chapter 1: Awakening The Storm "Finally, time to settle some old debts," Atop the High peak of the Kidron Sect, a lone figure stood against the autumn breeze. His black robes swaying gently, contrary to the gathering clouds above him. His pitch-black hair having grown longer over the years in seclusion¡ªdanced wildly to the rhythm of the wind. For the past four years, Tian had been behind closed doors¡ªrefining and pushing himself to the edge. But now, he had encountered a bottleneck¡ªthe threshold (level 9) of the Nascent Soul Stage (Saint Realm). His usually calm eyes of nothing but pure darkness gleamed with a silver touch as he prepares to face the 3-9 Soulflare Tribulation. Certain realms required a tribulation to get through, with a total of three tribulations to withstand for one to become immortal. The intensity of the tribulation varied with different individuals, but followed the same path¡ª3-9 Soulflare Tribulation, 6-9 Heavenly Axis Tribulation, and the legendary 9-9 Life Reversal Tribulation. To breakthrough to the Spirit King Stage (King Realm), the soul had to be tempered by the Heavenly Thunder, a crucial stage in a cultivators life where most failed to survive the tribulation, as one needed to withstand a total of sixty lightning bolts, each one stronger than the last. Having reached the Saint Realm at fifteen, Tian was a straight-up born Taboo, an anomaly who constantly defied logic. He should have already broken through to the Martial King Realm, but he sought to reach the Nascent Soul Ultimate realm first. These Realms represented a secret, forgotten, or nearly impossible-to-reach stages that exist between the major cultivation realms. They are secrets mostly only known to those in power, or at least has some connections to some great sect or clans. These realms require not only immense talent but also the right circumstances, environment, and resources to unlock. Within Kunlun, cultivation followed the following ranks: Mortal, Earth, Sky, Saint, King, Emperor, Heaven, and Void-Break Realm. With each realm divided into nine levels with the only exception for the Earth Realm which only has three levels. Rumble! Thunder rumbled and the sky fractured with streaks of golden lightning. Tian sat cross-legged, preparing for his breakthrough. He could feel his tribulation approaching. If he wanted to reach the Soul-Ascendance Ultimate level and possibly awaken his bloodline, he had to endure the tribulation without any external help. He began with the basics, focusing on meditative exercises that would help him harness his internal energy. Each moment, he pushed himself a little harder, his determination unyielding. As he activated the first level of the Taiyin Meridian, he felt a surge of energy course through his body, igniting his veins with a fiery intensity. The Taiyin Meridian technique focused on enhancing the body''s natural meridians, channels through which Qi flowed, to an extreme degree. The process was arduous, requiring intense concentration and a profound understanding of one''s inner workings. Tian visualized the meridians within his body, as divine branches interwoven into various paths, and began to channel his Qi through them, following the complex pathways outlined in the Reincarnation Book. Below the High Peak, a sea of disciples gathered in the Martial Arena, their focus on the gathering storm. Even those seasoned elders watched in a terrifying silence. "This¡­" a young disciple spoke, looking in the direction of the High Peak. They could all feel the violent clouds approaching the peak. Leaning against a tree in the High Elder''s garden was Yingsha, his hands on his sword as always but this time his usually composed demeanor shifted¡ªhis eyes narrowing as he turned his gaze towards the High Peak. ¡°He¡¯s out.¡± Yingsha¡¯s voice, though quiet, carried a hint of uneasiness. It was enough for the High Elder to turn his head sharply. His fingers tightened as he thought of the implications. "This... Young Master came out of seclusion?" Elder Wang spoke, his shock evident. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Rumble! The sky above the High Peak darkened ominously, swirling with thick, foreboding clouds. For miles around, the once peaceful sky seemed to bow under the weight of something unfathomable, like the heavens themselves prepared to witness a cataclysm. At the heart of it all, Tian sat secluded atop the mountain peak, deep in meditation. His mystical mask concealing his face, but beneath it, his reddish-black eyes gleamed with a cold, penetrating light. "This tribulation should be at least ten times stronger than a normal one," High Elder explained. "My tribulation and that of the other elders were not as terrifying. This cloud has a diameter of at least a hundred miles. Normally, they are only ten miles at most, and usually just five miles. A ten-mile diameter is already a great feat. But this..." "This naughty boy is truly attempting the Ultimate level," High Elder sighed, a mix of pride and unease in his voice. "His tribulation is already an anomaly. The Heavens won''t let him ascend that easy." "What? The Ultimate realm?" Elder Wang couldn''t believe what he was hearing. Ultimate Realms offered a transitional phase that allows cultivators to deepen their understanding, refine their power, and sometimes unlock hidden abilities tied to their bloodline or martial arts techniques. A few cultivators could ever boast of accessing these Realms, and even fewer made it out alive. One had to go beyond every conventional methods of advancement to enter these stages. "Tch, Young Master had already reached it in the Mortal Realm," Yingsha sneered. "He... he has... already broken through the Ultimate realm?" Elder Wang was in disbelief. High Elder smiled, "This boy defies common sense, Elder Wang. Judging him with normal standards will only strain your mind." ¡°Tch. Four years in seclusion and he¡¯s already breaking through? Showoff.¡± Tang Ai folded her arms standing beside Yingsha, her crimson eyes flashing with intrigue. However, despite her words, there was no mistaking tension in her posture. Unlike the rest of the sect, who was just watching in awe¡ªshe knew this wasn¡¯t going to be a walk in the park. As if to confirm her fears, at the peak, Tian had now completely cleared his thoughts and was ready for the tribulation. His blood was boiling with anticipation. He couldn''t believe it himself, but he had to be careful as the violent clouds seemed intent on ending him. He activated the Empyrean Compendium also known as the Reincarnation Book within his Sea of Qi and ran the Tao of Taiqing. This was a profound philosophy that emphasized harmony with the universe, the flow of energy, and the balance between offense and defense. It required a deep understanding of natural laws and the ability to adapt to various situation. Not wanting to risk anything, he also activated the No-Thought Sutra, which in contrast, was a mental discipline that allowed the practitioner to void their mind of all distractions, achieving a state of pure clarity. It was a technique that focused on enhancing one''s ability to react instinctively and efficiently, making it a perfect complement to the Tao of Taiqing. The Empyrean Compendium itself was made from a rare, ethereal Silver Spider silk that shimmered with a faint, otherworldly glow. The inscriptions were written in pure golden ink that never faded. The tome was adorned with intricate symbols and diagrams, each representing a different aspect of the martial techniques it contained. Tian raised his gaze, his expression void of any concern as the first bold charged toward him. ¡°Here we go.¡± Tian smiled as he watched the first strike descend like holy grail. This was it, the moment he¡¯d been working so hard for. Tian exhaled, and in the next instant¡­ the heavens erupted. Boom! The first strike hit, and the entire land shook violently. The skies turned black, and the phenomenon could be seen throughout Persian Desert. Rumble! Tian gritted his teeth as the thunder sought to tear apart his body. This was just the first lightning strike, yet it had already shaken the entire land. Gasps rippled through the watchers. Even the most composed instinctively took a step back. Some were stone-frozen, their expressions filled with awe and fear as they watched Tian endure the tribulation. The sight of him facing such a terrifying tribulation was both awe-inspiring and terrifying. Disciples and Elders alike clustered at a distance. The once lively air had become cold, an eerie chill creeping through the valley as if death itself lurked in the shadows. ¡°B-Black lightning?¡± one of them pointed toward the stormy clouds. ¡°Impossible¡­!¡± ¡°Have you ever seen anything like this?¡± whispered another disciple, his breath visible in the suddenly freezing air. ¡°No,¡± another answered, his voice trembling. ¡°Four years ago, when Young Master fought the Sword Emperor, I thought I had seen his limit. But now¡­ his aura alone is terrifying. It¡¯s like there¡¯s a monster awaiting to be unleashed.¡± The tribulation lightning continued its relentless descent on Tian like a torrential rain. His body was battered and bruised, blood oozing from the cracks. The scene was both awe-inspiring and horrifying. The members of the Hidden Sect could only watch in anticipation, hoping their Holy Son would succeed. The High Elder¡¯s face darkened. In all his years, he had seen all kinds of prodigies and their journeys¡ªbut this¡­ this was on a league of its own. The storm itself seemed to be alive, as if the heavens themselves wanted to erase him. Yingsha remained silent, but this time¡ªhis fists were clenched beneath his sleeve, one gripping tightly to the sword. In his short life, he¡¯d seen and survived a lot of challenges¡ªbut right now¡­ he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something terrible was about to happen. And once that happens, there won¡¯t be going back. Chapter 2: Universal Tribulation Cough! Cough! Cough! Tian vomited three consecutive mouthfuls of blood. He then quickly operated the Dragon''s Breath technique. This technique focused on amplifying the practitioner¡¯s physical strength and breath. It included methods for enhancing strikes and using the body as a weapon. The Empyrean Compendium was indeed an ancient and revered artifact, said to contain the most powerful and unorthodox martial techniques ever known. Its origins were shrouded in mystery, with legends claiming it was copied right from the Creation Manual. The disciples¡¯ gazes were all turned toward the secluded Phoenix mountain peak where Tian had been in seclusion. Even from this distance, they could feel it ¡ª the suffocating pressure, the creeping cold. The earth trembled faintly, and the wind carried an unnatural weight as if the world itself held its breath. ¡°Is it true he¡¯s about to break into the King Realm?¡± a younger disciple asked, eyes wide with both curiosity and dread. One of the senior disciples nodded grimly. ¡°Yes. But before that, he must pass the Tribulation. It doesn¡¯t even make sense why the Heavens will be jealous of our Young Master¡­ I can''t even begin to imagine what it will look like¡ªNormally you don¡¯t even have to go through such a terrible tribulation to ascend King Realm.¡± "That''s the 40th thunder strike," Tang Ai broke the anticipatory silence within the High Elders garden. "Young Master has made it this far, but he still has 20 more to go," Yingsha said, his eyes never leaving the High Peak. ¡°I heard he¡¯s been in seclusion, in the Phoenix Temple for the last four years,¡± the younger one continued back in the Martial Arena. ¡°And now... he¡¯s undergoing a breakthrough? How could anyone advance levels so fast?¡± ¡°His progress makes no sense,¡± the senior disciple muttered. ¡°Even when he fought the Sword Emperor, he was still in the early stages of the Sky Realm. But now¡­ that was a different person. He¡¯s on a different level altogether.¡± Rumble! As they spoke, the entire lands of Kunlun found itself at the center of an unnatural phenomenon¡ªthe sky¡­ was alive. Rather than being shrouded in the usual ominous darkness of a Heavenly Tribulation, it shifted, its colors flowing like the pulse of an ancient being. Gold, silver, violet, crimson, azure, emerald, and abyssal black¡ªhues that could not be properly described by any mortal language¡ªspiraled together, forming an endless vortex that stretched beyond the mortal realm itself. A divine aurora danced across the sky, illuminating the world in surreal brilliance. The very air quivered, saturated with thick, almost suffocating Ambient Qi. Thunder rumbled, not in chaotic bursts, but in a rhythmic, deliberate cadence¡ªas if the heavens themselves were chanting an incantation. Boom! It began, a deafening blast of sound and light erupted as the first strike descended. A spear of golden lightning tore through the vast clouds above, shattering space itself, ripping through the sky as if to cleave reality apart¡ªa spear of pure divine essence split the sky, tearing through the clouds as it crushed down on him. Such momentum descent was absolute. The moment it crashed down, a surge of raw devastation swept through the entire Kidron Sect. Shockwaves exploded outward, hurling debris like a storm of celestial blades. Mountains that had stood for millennia crumbled, reduced to nothing more than dust and fragmented stone. Crack! The very fabric of Kunlun trembled. But then¡ª Something¡­ was wrong. The energy of the divine strike should have been lethal, an undeniable death sentence from a divine decree. However, something even stranger happened¡ªinstead of being reduced to ashes, instead of his body shattering into nothingness¡ªTian absorbed it. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. The golden lightning, meant to obliterate, did not destroy him, instead, the divine radiance flowed into his very being, as though he were a vessel designed to contain it. A deep gasp echoed across the sect which was followed by a deafening silence. An eerie, deafening silence. The entire sect held its breath, hundreds of disciples, dozens of elders¡ªall frozen, unable to believe what they had just witnessed. He was literally absorbing the entire attack like a gluttonous demon, his pores fully opened and his meridians expanding by the moment. ¡°What¡­ what is going on?¡± Elder Wang¡¯s voice finally broke the suffocating stillness. His hands trembled, his mind struggling to comprehend the impossible scene before him. ¡°This¡­¡± he swallowed hard, eyes wide in horror. ¡°This is no ordinary Heavenly Tribulation.¡± Everyone could feel it, or at least sense that something greater was at play¡­something primal, something terrifying. And yet high above, the vortex in the sky continued to expand¡ªits colors deepening, its power growing. The heavens had not finished rumbling. ¡°What are those clouds all about anyway?¡± Tang Ai shrugged, looking at the High Elder for answers. "This... This is the Universe Tribulation!" High Elder exclaimed, his shock evident. A deathly silence enveloped the High Elder¡¯s garden. Everyone present there felt their knees grew weak, legs trembling. It was as if a divine decree had just been issued and each one faced their judgment¡ªthis was a calamity that was only whispered in the oldest of records, something that should not exist in every sense of the word within the current era. The very notion was absurd. Universe Tribulations did not descend on mortals. It was a phenomenon that only occurred at the birth of realms, divine beings, and cosmic epochs. Meanwhile¡­ At the heart of Kunlun, stood the Capital city¡ªthe pride of Kunlun, it buzzed with whispers of the extraordinary events happening. Built upon the remnants of the divine era, its very foundation laid upon the bones of fallen gods and a hidden history. The streets were paved with emerald stones that shimmered under the moonlight. At the center were the Imperial Palace stood, and three elders, dressed in flowing robes and adorned with expensive ornaments arrived at the royal palace, causing quite a stir. Their co-ordinated walks, drew the eyes of servants and guards alike as they made their way to the Emperor¡¯s Hall. The Emperor, seated on his gilded throne, frowned as he listened to the report from his advisors. "What is this commotion about? And why do they seek an audience at this time?" A courtier stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, they are elders from the East. They claim to have information regarding the lost prince." The Emperor''s grip on the armrest tightened. ¡®High Prince?¡¯ He signaled to his guards. "Bring them in." The grand doors creaked open, and the three elders entered, bowing respectfully. The eldest among them stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with deep power. "Long live, The Emperor," he began. "We are Sages of the East, advisors to the royal Wei house. Our Oracle has guided us to your land. We received news of the emergence of the supposed ¡°dead¡± High Prince. This development doesn¡¯t just affect the Emperor but all of us." The Emperor¡¯s lips curved into a forced smile, though unease gnawed at him. "High Prince, you say? How curious. I was not informed of such an event. Tell me more about this Oracle of yours." The second Wise Man, younger and with a calm demeanor, spoke. "The Oracle¡¯s prophecy is unlike any we have charted. It rose with a brilliant flame, moving westward. My Lord, the rising of the Ancient Sacred Dharma is what led us here, to the city of kings." Emperor Zhang''s mind raced. ¡®Could this child bring threat to my throne?¡¯ He leaned forward, masking his concern with an air of curiosity. "Your journey must have been arduous. Surely, you deserve rest and refreshment. But tell me, why do you believe this prophecy to be about the High Prince?" The third Elder, his voice steady and reverent, answered, "Numerous previous prophecies had foretold his return, Your Majesty, the rightful ruler to the Ancient Throne. The Oracle confirmed it." Emperor Zhang feigned interest, nodding solemnly. "Ah, prophecy. Indeed, a matter of great importance. Yet, I must admit ignorance. I will consult my council on this matter. Meanwhile, stay as my honored guests." After dismissing the three elders, Elder Zhang summoned his military advisors. "Where is the High Prince hiding?" he demanded. The chief guard unrolled a scroll, his voice echoing in the chamber. "In Persia of the West, Your Majesty. The Holy Lady said that ''In Persia, the land of Eternal Sands, is the High Prince disguised himself as a common native.'' Our spies also mentioned that The Lone Sword is headed there." Emperor Zhang''s smile returned, though this time, it carried a sinister edge. He ordered the three Elders back to his throne room. "Honored guests," He began, "I have learned that the High Prince is indeed in Persia. Here¡¯s my verdict: tell the Commendary Prince Wei Dongfang to go and search diligently for him. There shall be no mistakes in this!" The three elders exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. "We are grateful for your guidance, Your Majesty," the eldest said, bowing once more. With that, the Sages departed, their caravan heading back to the East. The bright moonlight in the multi-colorful skies guided them along them as they carried the news back to their master. Overcome with joy, they laughed and chatted about the Emperor¡¯s plan to finally put an end to the Sacred family. Chapter 3: All Leads to Failure
Back in the Kidron Sect, the revelation by the High Elder took everyone by surprise. "High Elder, what is the Universe Tribulation?" Tang Ai asked, her curiosity visibly evident. "It¡¯s a trial that only exists in legends," High Elder began. "A calamity that is said to have only existed when the Ancient Laws were born. It was the Universe Tribulation that melded the seven laws together, forming the Seven Colored Radiance. And is from this radiance that worlds were born." "Universe Tribulation signifies the birth of a new world and is accompanied by ten devastating strikes. I don''t know if the young prince is going to make it," High Elder murmured to himself. "This his tribulation is already abnormal¡­I wonder?" High Elder seemed lost in thought, ¡°why is it appearing now?¡± As if to respond to his question, farther up the mountain, Tian¡¯s body hovered just above the stone floor, space rippling outward, a manifestation of his terrifying power. The radius of the distorted space had expanded¡ªnow stretching an astounding 250 meters in all directions. Those within its range could feel it¡ªthe unmistakable presence of death. It clung to their skin and seeped into their bones. A faint aura of black mist swirled around Tian¡¯s form, his breathing steady, but his power growing more and more unstable. His domain was no longer just a space of control, but one of annihilation. Anything within it would feel the edge of his scythe ¡ª invisible, unstoppable. If he passes the tribulation, his Domain Creation allows him to fully evolve. Within his domain, Tian has complete control over the life force of anything that steps into it. Domain Creation is the peak mastery of spatial manipulation, where a cultivator imposes their will upon the world, creating a personal reality governed by their own rules. Inside a domain, the cultivator is akin to a god, and all-natural laws are twisted, bent, or outright rewritten to favor them. Domains are an advanced technique, usually accessible only to the most powerful or enlightened cultivators, often at or beyond the Void-Break Realm. Outside, the temperature plummeted further, frost forming on the grass, the stone walls, and even the disciples'' robes. Some backed away, unable to bear the cold, their teeth chattering as they spoke in hushed whispers. ¡°L.. L.. l¡­look at his domain¡­ it¡¯s even stronger than before. The Sword Emperor stood no chance now. No one does.¡± ¡°The radius is now over 250 meters¡­ no, it''s still growing! How is that possible?¡± ¡°It''s not just expanding¡­ it¡¯s like it¡¯s evolving.¡± Suddenly, from the heart of the seven-colored clouds above, a bolt of silver lightning crackled ominously, zigzagging across the sky. It was as bright as the very first dawn of the cosmos. Rumble! It descended down on Tian like a death sentence¡­ but then, it struck down on the very edge of his domain, as if testing the boundaries of his power. The moment it touched the ground, the entire Kidron sect trembled violently. The golden protective barrier that had been standing for ages shattered instantly as if it never existed. In the silence that followed, the world seemed to hang on the edge of oblivion, waiting for the inevitable storm. ¡°My oh My¡­¡± High Elder murmured from afar, gazing at the unfolding scene with a mix of respect and trepidation. ¡°I hope he¡¯s not planning what I¡¯m thinking¡­ The heavens may not let him pass easily. But if he succeeds¡­ we may be witnessing the rise of the next God-King.¡± The air thickened as more lightning crackled in the sky. The clouds swirled violently, forming a vortex directly above Tian. The storm was coming, and with it, the trial of his life. The disciples stepped back further, the weight of Tian¡¯s aura pressing down on them, making it hard to breathe. His power was undeniable, overwhelming, a force of nature that demanded reverence. As the wind howled, and the storm gathered its strength, one thing was clear: Tian was no longer the young prodigy who had battled the Sword Emperor four years ago. He was something else. Something more, and the heavens would soon decide whether or not he was worthy to ascend. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. His eyes, which had always held a quiet, indifferent coldness, now burned with an unfathomable crimson hue. His aura, which was already unstable, surged wildly, threatening to evolve even further beyond mortal comprehension. High above the peak, Tian endures the 42nd and 43rd strikes descending together. A crimson bolt, carrying the essence of Fire, and a violet arc, infused with the Law of Chaos itself, merged in mid-air, forming a spiraling dragon of destruction. When it struck, the very laws of reality twisted¡ªthe ground ignited into a sea of everlasting flames, while space itself distorted, creating endless fractures into the void. His body was unidentifiable, covered in blood. "I can''t stop now," Tian murmured, gritting his teeth. He then operated the sixth level of the Empyrean Compendium, the Ninefall Heaven. His meridians enlarged and began absorbing the tribulation thunder into his Sea of Qi. The thunder tempered and ravaged his externals as it sought to escape, but Tian operated his bloodline, enhancing his resilience. 45th strike... At this point, it was as if the Heavens were actually trying to kill him and not just aid him in his breakthrough. The sky turned even more chaotic and the thunder began to merge together creating massive lightning bolts. It was scary, something that had never happened before. Tian was just a mere mortal of the Saint Realm, why would the Heavens be jealous of him? It made no sense. A deep blue bolt, as vast as the sea of stars, howled as it carried the power of Time itself. Everything it touched aged and decayed, turning centuries into moments. The surrounding mountain peaks, ancient and unmoving for millennia, crumbled into nothingness as the weight of infinity crushed them into dust. Boom! Rumble! The entire space became dark as if it were night, the only light coming from those terrible lightning bolts in the sky. Tian finally realized that this was not just a trial, but the Heavens were really trying to erase him from existence. He was infuriated. Why would the Heavens try to kill him? Was it his fault that he was born strong? There was so much evil in the world and the Heavens never interfered, yet they wanted to kill him. ¡°Fine!¡± Tian roared. ¡°If the Heavens want to kill me, then I will slaughter the Heavens!¡± His voice echoed like thunder throughout the entire sect. ¡°What is the Young Master planning?¡± Even the High Elder was surprised by the sudden turn of things. Bang! 46th and 47th strike came together¡ªa piercing emerald radiance, filled with the power of Creation, and an abyssal black strike, so dark it swallowed even light itself¡ªthe Law of Darkness in its purest form. The very sky itself cracked under the force. By now, the Kidron Flame Sect was barely standing. The protective formations that had shielded it for thousands of years were gone, and the very heavens above Kunlun seemed to be watching. The gods of old¡ªthe ones who had vanished when the Bodhisattva Tree withered 100,000 years ago¡ªwould have recognized this as the return of a forgotten force. Tian clenched his fists, summoning every ounce of his strength. His Domain responded, the familiar energy of his inner world rising to meet the challenge. Flames erupted around him, a defensive wall of fire swirling in a protective arc. But the tribulation was relentless. More lightning, more fire, rained down, testing every facet of his power. The roar of the tribulation drowned out his thoughts. Tian¡¯s muscles screamed in protest, but he pushed forward, channeling his Spirit Qi in a desperate attempt to stabilize his Domain. This was the key to the breakthrough. If his Domain collapsed under the weight of the tribulation, so too would his body. "Is that¡­ his Domain? Look at the way it''s shifting¡­ Fire and ice¡­ I''ve never seen anything like it. How is he controlling it?" Tang Ai was super curious. Yingsha replied, his voice full of wonder, "That black flame¡­ it¡¯s the Black Phoenix! Only legends speak of such a flame. I thought no one could master it." Elder Wang raised his concern, "He¡¯s facing the Ultimate Tribulation¡­ If his Domain collapses now¡­ the backlash could kill him instantly. Does he not realize the danger?" Rumble! The colossal eye blinked, and with it came a beam of pure energy, faster than lightning, brighter than the sun. It tore through Tian¡¯s defenses, striking him square in the chest. Agony rippled through his body, but he stood firm, refusing to be brought down. His clothes burned, his skin scorched, but his will remained unbroken. Through the blinding pain, Tian reached deeper into himself, beyond the surface of his Domain, beyond the fear and the agony. He had to break through. He had to survive. A flicker of determination ignited within him, pushing him beyond the limits of his mortal body. The air around him trembled as the tribulation reached its peak. The storm above churned with unprecedented fury, a maelstrom of destruction bearing down upon him. But Tian stood tall, his eyes burning with resolve. His Domain stabilized, growing stronger with each passing moment, feeding off his indomitable will. And then, with a deafening crack, the final strike came. A bolt of pure, unadulterated power descended from the heavens, aimed directly at Tian¡¯s heart. Time seemed to slow as the energy raced toward him. He could feel the weight of it, the immense pressure bearing down on his soul. But Tian did not flinch. "By the heavens! Did you see that? His barrier... it''s gone! There''s no way he can survive this!" Chapter 4: Heavens Final Verdict "How is he still standing? That strike should¡¯ve reduced him to nothing. What kind of monster is he?" "He¡¯s not like the rest of us. No¡­ He is something else entirely." Waves of murmurs rushed through the sect as everyone witnessed the tribulation of a lifetime. Right then, just before the 47th hit strikes... The world around Tian twisted under the pressure of the tribulation. His Domain, once stable, began to morph into something far more chaotic. The ground beneath him rippled like molten lava, yet the air above turned freezing, creating a whirlwind of clashing elements. Hot and cold, fire and ice, light and shadow¡ªall danced in a strange harmony, as if the very laws of nature had been overturned. In the eye of the storm, Tian stood, his figure barely visible through the raging energies. His chest still smoldered from the previous strike, but his spirit refused to yield. The Black Phoenix flame began to stir deep within his core, responding to the chaos. The flame, dark as midnight and hotter than the sun, flickered to life around him. It surged from his body, coiling and twisting like a living thing, wrapping around his limbs and encasing him in an ethereal armor of fire. But this flame was no ordinary heat. It was cold to the touch, burning with a paradoxical frost that devoured everything in its path. His Domain shifted again, this time growing darker, more primal. The ground cracked open, releasing plumes of black flame that danced in time with the lightning above. The oppressive cold mingled with the searing heat, creating an unnatural equilibrium. This was the Black Phoenix¡¯s power¡ªthe power to destroy and to rebirth. Tian¡¯s soul began to change, too. As he delved deeper into his power, the image of the Black Phoenix grew clearer in his mind. His soul, once a mere flicker of energy, now expanded, stretching its wings as it took the shape of the legendary bird. The Phoenix was both life and death, a creature born from the ashes of its own destruction. And now, it was him. With a roar, Tian unleashed the new-found might of the Black flame, his body engulfed in swirling black fire. His Domain responded, expanding outward, consuming everything in its path. The cold heat of the flame rippled across the fractured ground, reshaping the very fabric of the space around him. And then, the tribulation answered. Rumble!!! From the eye in the sky, a rumble echoed, louder than anything Tian had heard before. The clouds above churned violently, as if the heavens themselves were preparing their final judgment. The 48th and 49th strikes arrived together¡ªOne was pure white, a bolt of absolute Origin, the very beginning of existence itself. The other was a surge of Space, distorting dimensions in such a way that even the Elders could barely perceive reality correctly. Tian¡¯s grip tightened. His body trembled from the sheer force of his power, but his will remained unbroken. The moment the eye blinked and the storm surged with renewed fury, lightning bolts¡ªbrilliant streaks of white and black¡ªdescended from the sky, slamming into Tian¡¯s Domain with brutal force. But the Black Phoenix flame devoured them, absorbing the energy into its unnatural heat. Each strike was consumed, each flash of lightning adding to the fire¡¯s strength. For a moment, it seemed as if Tian would succeed. His Domain had transformed into something far beyond its original state. His soul had begun its metamorphosis into the true Phoenix. Victory was within his grasp. But the heavens were not yet done. Rumble!!! From the heart of the storm, one, monstrous bolt of lightning tore free. It was unlike any before¡ªA lightning bolt infused with all Seven Laws, thicker, brighter, a pure column of destructive energy that split the sky in two. It descended with terrifying speed, aimed directly at Tian, carrying with it the weight of the tribulation¡¯s final judgment. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. It did not descend like the others. It expanded, filling the sky with an unending, apocalyptic dome of seven-colored radiance, encompassing all of the Kidron Valley. For a brief moment, the mortal realm was connected to something beyond comprehension. For the first time in 100,000 years, the air was thick with something divine. Tian raised his hand, the Black Phoenix flame surging to meet the blow. But this time, it was different. The flame roared to life, wrapping around him like a cocoon, his body and soul merging with the Phoenix¡¯s essence. For a split second, Tian became the bird of legend, his silhouette flickering between man and Phoenix. Bang! The lightning struck. The impact was deafening. A blinding flash of light consumed everything, and the ground trembled as the force of the strike tore through Tian¡¯s Domain. His barrier of black flame shattered, the cold heat evaporating into the air as the lightning passed through him. Tian¡¯s body crumbled under the weight of the attack. His skin burned, his bones cracked, and in the blink of an eye, he was reduced to nothing but ash. Silence fell. The storm above remained, the dark clouds growing intensely in the sky. The ground was now scorched and barren, littered with the remains of his failed defense. Only a pile of ash remained where Tian had stood, the last remnants of his form. "No¡­ No! It¡¯s impossible! He¡¯s¡­ gone. He failed." "How could someone with such power¡­ How could he be reduced to nothing?" "I¡­ I don¡¯t understand. He was so close. How could this be the end?" From a distance, figures watched in disbelief. They had witnessed the tribulation from afar, sensing the immense power and the devastation that followed. But now, as the dust settled, there was no sign of Tian, no trace of the man who had fought so fiercely against the heavens. "So much for the mighty Young Master. This is what happens when you overreach. In the end, he was no different from the rest of us." "Perhaps¡­ but something still feels off. This doesn¡¯t seem like the end. Not for someone like him." The wind blew softly, scattering the ashes into the air. The world seemed to hold its breath, waiting for something, anything, to happen. But there was nothing. However, the sky was still dark, churning with thunder and streaked with crimson. Yet, Tian¡¯s form was gone, reduced to ashes. The ground where he¡¯d stood moments ago was scorched, marked only by shadows and the remnants of his Domain. A gathering of disciples and elders stared, their faces shifting from astonishment to an array of more concealed emotions¡ªenvy, bitterness, even quiet glee at the sight of his apparent failure. ¡°So, this is the great ¡®Reaper¡¯s¡¯ end?¡± Senior Disciple Liu murmured, a smirk playing on his lips. ¡°For all his power, he crumbled like ash in the face of the heavens.¡± Another scoffed beside him. ¡°He always thought he was above us¡­ he carried himself as if he were invincible.¡± Elder Hua¡¯s expression remained thoughtful as her gaze lingered on the sky. ¡°Watch your words,¡± she said sternly. ¡°He may be gone, but that was no ordinary power he wielded. Few would dare attempt what he has.¡± The disciples turned their gazes away from Elder Hua¡¯s stern look, but their murmurs continued. ¡°If you ask me, he deserved it,¡± a young girl whispered. ¡°He was too arrogant¡­ did he really think he was worthy of such a feat?¡± A low rumble of agreement spread among the disciples. Even some of the elders shifted uncomfortably, their loyalty thinning now that the Young Master was no longer there to inspire it. ¡°Fools, the lot of you,¡± Elder Hua muttered, shaking her head. ¡°Had the Young Master succeeded, he would have elevated this Sect beyond any of us. But ambition consumes even the brightest flames.¡± ¡°Ambition? Or delusion?¡± Senior Disciple Liu sneered. ¡°He was no different than the rest of us. He just had more power and flaunted it as if it meant anything.¡± A low, disdainful chuckle came from another elder disciple, one of the more ambitious disciples known for his jealousy toward Tian. ¡°Power like his¡­ it was wasted on someone so reckless. If I had his talent, I¡¯d have taken my time and learned restraint.¡± Elder Hua frowned as she watched the sky. ¡°Yet look around you, Fen Yan. Do you see the clouds dissipating? Do you feel the tribulation leaving? No¡­ if anything, it grows fiercer.¡± The others glanced up, and a murmur of worry passed through them. The clouds had only thickened, darkening as bolts of red lightning slashed through the sky with a vengeance, casting eerie shadows on their faces. ¡°But he¡¯s¡­ gone. Isn¡¯t he?¡± the female disciple from earlier shivered, her voice uncertain. ¡°I mean¡­ we all saw what happened.¡± ¡°Tribulation doesn¡¯t linger after failure,¡± said Elder Hua with a smirk. ¡°Why would the heavens hold their gaze if he¡¯s already fallen?¡± The disciples fell silent, each lost in their own thoughts, and some looked warily at the darkening sky. But others wore twisted smirks, their loyalty vanishing with the strength they¡¯d once respected. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s some kind of punishment from the heavens themselves,¡± Fen Yan muttered quietly, barely concealing his satisfaction. ¡°Lingering to mark his arrogance for all to see. Even the mighty ¡®Young Master¡¯ couldn¡¯t evade judgment.¡± ¡°The Black Phoenix flame¡­ an empty name now,¡± Senior Disciple Liu added with a sneer. ¡°His legacy will be a story of failure, a warning to all who dare challenge the heavens alone.¡± Lei Jin, looked troubled as he scanned the faces of those around him. They were rooting for him not hours ago, he thought. Now, the same voices who praised Tian¡¯s power sounded almost relieved that he had failed. But Jin couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was amiss. Chapter 5: Sovereign ¡°All of you seem eager to spit on his memory,¡± Lei Jin said cautiously. ¡°But what if this is just the beginning? The sky¡­ it¡¯s unnatural. The tribulation¡¯s power should be fading, not growing.¡± Elder Hua looked approvingly at him. ¡°Indeed. Young Master was¡­ exceptional. The heavens do not toy with such power lightly. Keep your arrogance in check, for we may yet be shown the true reason for this storm.¡± A few disciples bristled at Elder Hua¡¯s warning, but many were too consumed with their own dark thoughts to care. The storm above only intensified, the lightning growing sharper, streaking closer to the ground. It almost seemed as if the heavens were preparing for something far greater. ¡°But¡­ what if he really is coming back? Is that even possible?¡± the female disciple¡¯s voice held a hint of fear as she looked up, her face pale. Fen Yan let out a derisive laugh. ¡°Impossible. He¡¯s dead. Ashes, Mei. And no amount of Black Phoenix legend will bring him back. Once the heavens judge, there¡¯s no coming back.¡± Yet, as they spoke, a strange energy began to pulse from the scorched ground. At first, it was faint¡ªno more than a ripple through the air, a hum of power whispering through the silence. But it grew, the sound deepening into a beat, a rhythm like the pulse of a heart. It seemed to resonate with the dark clouds, almost as if the storm itself were answering its call. Dub-dub! Dub-dub! Dub-dub! A hush fell over the crowd as all eyes turned to the source of the energy. Some looked on in horror, while others stepped back, fear creeping into their expressions. Elder Hua¡¯s face grew pale, but her eyes remained sharp, sensing the true depth of what was about to unfold. ¡°Could it be¡­ that that he is still alive?¡± she whispered reverently. The disciples¡¯ expressions turned to panic. The thought of Tian¡¯s return, of his power growing even beyond their reckoning, was more than most could handle. ¡°No¡­ it can¡¯t be. He was destroyed¡ªreduced to ashes!¡± Fen Yan stammered, his disbelief cracking through his voice. ¡°How could he possibly return from that?¡± ¡°If he¡­ he returns¡­¡± Liu backed away, trembling, ¡°will he be the same? Or¡­ will he come back as s¡ªsomething else entirely?¡± The lightning crackled, and a dark flame sparked to life in the center of the scorched ground. It was tiny at first, barely a flicker, but it grew steadily, a black fire that devoured the air around it. And from within that flame, a figure began to take shape, a presence rising from the ashes. The disciples and elders watched, speechless, as the flame pulsed, its heat cold and otherworldly, yet alive and filled with energy. Tian¡¯s presence was unmistakable. Rumble! The storm above intensified, and the sky turned darker than ever, the heavens brimming with fury as the final transformation took root. Tian¡¯s awakening had begun, and those who had just cast judgment upon him could only stand frozen, their doubts and curses silenced by the very power they had scorned. Rumble! The storm above was unrelenting, seething with energy that pulsed across the horizon, the dark clouds rumbling with a vengeance beyond anything the Sect had ever witnessed. What should have been the end¡ªthe scattering of tribulation clouds and silence after Tian¡¯s fall¡ªwas now a gathering storm, as if the heavens themselves refused to relent until all was laid to ruin. ¡°One flower, one world¡­¡± a soft voice traveled throughout the sect, ¡°everything is¡­ but a grain of dust in the palm of fate¡­¡± The disciples stood frozen, a mixture of terror and awe stamped across their faces. They watched as the black flames sparked and wove together in the center of the ashes, where Tian had fallen. The embers flared and crackled, taking on a shape, and moving with a sentient energy that defied reason. In the heart of that fire, a form began to emerge¡ªa form that sent chills down the spines of even the most experienced Elders. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. The female Core disciple, Mei, gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. ¡°What¡­ what is that? It¡­ it¡¯s impossible!¡± ¡°He¡¯s¡­ he¡¯s coming back,¡± Elder Hua murmured, unable to tear her eyes away from the spectacle. She felt an ancient fear stir within her, one that only those steeped in the knowledge of old legends could comprehend. The flames continued to rise, their intensity waxing as a blackened feathered form took shape¡ªa magnificent, towering bird with wings spanning wider than any beast of this realm, each feather outlined in fire. It was a phoenix, its outline rippling with unnatural energy, as though it was reforming from the depths of an ancient memory, of a myth come alive. Fen Yan took a step back, his eyes wide with terror. ¡°No¡­ the B¡ªblack Phoenix¡­ it can¡¯t be true. Legends say it was a creature that defied even the gods.¡± The flames crackled louder, reaching the heavens as if challenging the storm itself. Each pulse of energy was met by the crackling of lightning above, the storm twisting in response, as though the heavens were searching for a way to stamp out this impossible rebirth. But the flames did not falter; they fed on the wrath of the sky, drawing strength from the fury meant to destroy them. ¡°A phoenix is born from its ashes,¡± Elder Wang muttered, his voice trembling. ¡°But this¡­ this is no ordinary phoenix. This is the Black Phoenix, the one that defies death itself.¡± Murmurs of fear and awe rippled through the crowd, and even the most seasoned Elders felt their hearts beat faster, each of them questioning their place in the face of such power. Yingsha whispered, ¡°Is it¡­ is it even Young Master anymore? Or has he become something beyond human?¡± Before any of the elders could answer, the black flames flared, as though Tian¡¯s essence had heard and answered the question himself. The outline of the phoenix began to shift, condensing and refining, as each feather and talon grew sharper, more defined. The temperature surrounding the area plummeted, then rose again, flickering between extremes as the very essence of the Black Phoenix settled into balance¡ªa creature that defied both heat and cold, embodying both death and rebirth. Liu, took a hesitant step back, his face pale. ¡°What is the purpose of this transformation? Does he intend to challenge the laws of the heavens?¡± ¡°He¡¯s breaking the natural order,¡± Elder Hua said, her voice barely above a whisper. Her eyes gleamed with a strange mixture of reverence and terror. ¡°This¡­ is the legend of the Black Phoenix live before us, a power that was sealed in legend, so formidable that even the heavens sought to erase it from existence.¡± From within the blazing figure, a heartbeat sounded, echoing across the sect grounds. The energy was suffocating, pressing down on the crowd like a crushing weight. Those gathered felt the pulse resonate within them, its rhythm compelling them to watch in silence. In that heartbeat, there was a rage that felt ancient, a wrath that seemed to have waited lifetimes to be unleashed. Dub-dub! The disciples stood transfixed, each wondering, fearing, and hoping¡ªyet not one of them could look away as the flames condensed further until they formed a fully reborn figure. There he stood, Tian, his human form restored, yet altered in ways that left no question about the power he now wielded. His eyes, once a deep, smoldering black, now blazed with the endless fire of the Black Phoenix, an intense glow that seemed to peer into the very souls of those who watched. The storm roared louder as if the heavens themselves were responding, a final challenge against the being who dared to rise from the ashes. The clouds swirled, forming a massive vortex, and the red lightning grew darker, more potent, as it gathered in a single, terrifying bolt, aimed directly at Tian. ¡°Young Master!¡± Elder Wang called, his voice tinged with desperation. ¡°Turn back now! This is madness!¡± But Tian¡¯s gaze remained fixed on the heavens, his expression unreadable, yet resolute. He raised his hand slowly, the black flames swirling around him as if he intended to meet the heavens¡¯ wrath head-on. Around him, the aura of the Black Phoenix rippled, both hot and cold, alive with a power that seemed to be drawn from the very cosmos. Mei trembled. ¡°Is he¡­ does he truly mean to defy the heavens?¡± Elder Hua closed her eyes, a look of pained respect crossing her face. ¡°The Black Phoenix was said to be a creature of rebellion, one that would never kneel, never bow¡ªeven to the gods themselves. Young Master is not just defying them but rewriting his fate.¡± The disciples looked on, their earlier envy and malice vanishing, replaced by a terrified admiration. The might Tian wielded was unlike anything they had imagined. They could feel it¡ªa power that belonged to no mortal, no spirit, but something far more profound, something destined to endure beyond death. ¡°Young Master, stop!¡± Elder Wang cried, his voice shaking. ¡°Please, don¡¯t¡­ the heavens won¡¯t allow it. You¡¯ll bring ruin to us all!¡± But Tian simply looked up, his form now fully enveloped in the flames, which pulsed in sync with the thunderous sky. His figure shone against the storm, the reborn Black Phoenix, a myth brought to life. He opened his mouth, his voice echoing with the weight of ancient power. ¡°If the Heavens wish to stop me, then I will slay the Heavens. I was born from their wrath, and I will be the end of it.¡± Chapter 6: Sword Convergence A hush fell over the crowd as the final bolt of lightning gathered above, its energy like nothing they had seen before as if it intended to erase him and his newfound power in one all-encompassing strike. The heavens cracked open, and the lightning plummeted down, faster and fiercer than anything that had come before. And then, the final strike! Boom! At that instant, Tian leaped, meeting the lightning mid-air. His form shone brighter, wings of black fire unfurling from his back, and he transformed, melding into the pure shape of a Phoenix. The power of his leap shattered the ground below, and the force of his presence tore through the skies as he launched himself toward the descending bolt. The disciples gasped as the impossible unfolded before them. The heavens trembled, the lightning meeting Tian¡¯s form head-on, its energy colliding with the flames of the Black Phoenix. The sky itself seemed to crackle and shudder, unable to contain the power of their clash. A voice, barely a whisper, passed through the crowd. ¡°He¡¯s¡­ breaking the sky.¡± The lightning shattered upon contact, shattering into fragments, its power dissipated by the sheer force of Tian¡¯s might. The clouds writhed, their fury defeated, and a silence heavier than any sound fell over the sect. The disciples stared, speechless, as Tian, cloaked in the flames of the Black Phoenix, hovered against the backdrop of a broken sky. He had done it¡ªhe had shattered the heavens¡¯ wrath, a feat beyond anything the world had ever known. And as they looked upon him, some in fear, some in awe, they understood: this was not Tian as they knew him. This was the Black Phoenix reborn, a force that belonged to legend, and one that would change the world. Dong! Dong! Dong! The Heavenly Bell tolled through the valley, its ancient ring echoing like the heartbeat of the world itself. On the Elder Peak, the ground trembled, and the sky darkened, rolling with clouds of seven colors¡ªeach one ablaze with lightning. The atmosphere thickened, and a bone-chilling wind spread from the peak, sending shivers through the disciples of the Black Phoenix Sect. The mountain was drenched in golden light, pouring like a waterfall from the heavens, enveloping Tian in an ethereal radiance. He stood there, suspended in a storm of Qi, his eyes closed, face serene, while his aura rippled outward, cold and forbidding. A hush had fallen over the crowd of onlookers below. Among them, murmurs arose, punctuated by startled gasps. ¡°Is¡­ is this real?¡± whispered one of the younger disciples. ¡°Is Young Master truly transcending the King Realm?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not just a breakthrough.¡± An elder disciple shook his head, eyes widening. ¡°Look! His Domain¡­ it¡¯s becoming boundless. This isn¡¯t mere King Realm. It¡¯s something greater.¡± As the bell rang its fourth and final time, Tian¡¯s body began to transform. Streams of radiant golden light snaked around his limbs, his apertures devouring Qi and light alike, as though he were an endless well. His wounds, the scars from years of cultivation, healed at a visible pace, leaving his skin smooth and radiant, almost otherworldly. A seven-colored glow pulsed from him, weaving in and out of his pores, merging into his blood, veins, and bones. The disciples below gasped in awe, unable to tear their gaze from the spectacle unfolding. A low rumble echoed from Tian¡¯s body as his Sea of Qi transformed. What had once been a lake now roared like an ocean. Deep within it, a small figure¡ªno larger than a child¡ªsat cross-legged, wrapped in seven-colored radiance, exuding an unfathomable power. It was a miniature of Tian himself, a spirit born from the very essence of his cultivation, absorbing the tribulation¡¯s power, drawing it into his soul. His Sea of Qi churned, expanding with every breath he took, each inhale bringing in a storm of Qi, each exhale releasing a wave of pure, concentrated power. His internal Qi thickened, growing denser than stone and hotter than molten steel. As his Sea of Qi pulsed, it spread an aura across the Elder Peak, suffusing the mountain in a radiant, otherworldly glow. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Eighty-one stars shimmered like brilliant lights atop his Sea of Qi. God''s will descended onto Tian''s body and sanctified him. His body had become half-saint, and his Souls also experienced a breakthrough. He gathered his will and began to solidify his internal Qi. Moments passed as he concentrated his Qi. His dantian began to emit tiny bits of light as if it were a miniature cosmos. Once his Qi stabilized, Tian prepared for the breakthrough. He had already received God''s Will and could now freely break through to the King realm. He had condensed one of the strongest martial souls and bodies, making him unique. Rumble! Just like an overfilled jar, Tian¡¯s dantian cracked and shattered allowing the energy to enter his body, meridians, blood, and bones. The vortex increased in size, becoming at least a small world, and seven new stars formed above the vortex. They were at least ten times bigger than the last ones, Tian had finally broken through to the Martial King Realm. As soon as he broke through, he stood up. His presence was both commanding and intimidating. His aura surged forth, blasting outward with an intensity that made the disciples stumble back. ¡°Look at him!¡± one disciple whispered, fear and awe mingling in their voice. ¡°The Young Master¡­ he¡¯s¡­ he¡¯s¡­ a monster.¡± ¡°Monster?¡± a bolder disciple muttered, snorting. ¡°That¡¯s putting it lightly. This is more than transformation¡­ it¡¯s a rebirth!¡± Now, Tian¡¯s form began to shift as his transformation was completed. His face was sharper, his expression more fierce, his body emanating a heat that was both scorching and soothing. The mask that once concealed him shattered in the intense radiance, revealing his new face¡ªa face both strikingly youthful and yet fearsomely powerful, with eyes that seemed to burn with a fire from another world. His once-black hair now flowed behind him like an inky waterfall, streaked with traces of gold and crimson, each strand shimmering as if woven from pure flame. The crowd stood in awe as Tian raised his hand, summoning his Domain with a single, casual gesture. His Domain surged outward, encompassing a radius of 500 miles, thickening the very air and binding it to his will. The earth trembled, and the sky darkened within his domain, transforming the very environment. A dark red mist filled the space, alive with streaks of gold and black flames, and an ominous energy pulsed within it, terrifyingly cold yet paradoxically warm. Inside, anything that touched his domain would face obliteration, burnt to ash in an instant. This was the Reaper¡¯s Embrace¡ªa conceptual domain, an extension of his own will, blending life and death within a single breath. ¡°Young Master¡­¡± one disciple murmured, his voice barely audible. ¡°Is this¡­ is this what it means to be a Flame Sovereign?¡± Another disciple, more bold, laughed nervously. ¡°Forget Flame Sovereign! We should be calling him something else entirely. I mean, what kind of monster has such power?¡± They stared, mouths agape, as Tian lifted his hand and summoned forth a sphere of flame. But this was no ordinary fire; it was the True Phoenix Flame. A black-and-gold conflagration swirled within his palm, alive, burning with the intensity of a star and the purity of divine light. It pulsed, each flicker of flame whispering of rebirth, eternity, and annihilation. The air around him crackled with power as Tian¡¯s gaze shifted, surveying the awe-stricken disciples and elders. He gave a faint, almost imperceptible smile, though his eyes held an intensity that silenced the crowd. His transformation was complete; he was no longer merely the Young Master of the Black Phoenix Sect. He was something far greater, a sovereign reborn in flames, wielding a power beyond the comprehension of those around him. A whisper ran through the crowd as they watched, rooted in place by the overwhelming aura. ¡°Is he even human anymore?¡± someone whispered, shivering. ¡°Or has he truly become¡­ a demon?¡± Another disciple chuckled nervously. ¡°If he isn¡¯t human, well, we¡¯re all doomed. No one can stand against him now.¡± ¡°Stand against him?¡± scoffed a senior disciple. ¡°I¡¯d be glad if he doesn¡¯t accidentally burn us alive by breathing.¡± Their chatter was silenced as Tian turned his attention back to his surroundings, the power of his domain extending further. The temperature dropped again, a biting cold filling the area despite the blazing flames dancing within his Domain. His aura had changed; it was no longer simply terrifying. It was oppressive, like a storm that threatened to consume everything in its path, yet so radiant that it filled onlookers with an almost reverent awe. "He has reached the Ultimate level!" Longzhi grinned, his joy obvious. "He... He really did!" Elder Wang still couldn''t believe what was happening. "He now has the black flame. I wonder if this is a blessing or a curse for the mortal world," High Elder sighed, seemingly disturbed. Tian opened his eyes and a burst of power enough to shatter souls was released, without activating his Deity Eyes, could clearly see over thousands of miles. His hearing and senses enhanced a thousandfold; he could hear his Elders talking and birds chirping from a mile away. Swoosh! Tian got up and began performing the Worlds-End Sword Technique. A Colorless Sword emerged from his body, hovering behind him. All the swords within the Sacred Sect flew out of their sheaths and approached the Colorless Sword. The phenomenon was awe-inspiring as if the Emperor Sword had appeared and commanded all other swords. "Is this the Legendary Sword convergence?" Elder Wang asked in amazement. Chapter 7: The Sects Reaction "It indeed is," High Elder nodded. "Young Master has advanced in his Sword Dao. He should have reached level 7 of the Timeless Sword Manual." "Seventh Sword, Meteor Fall!" Tian whispered, performing delicate, swift moves. Each strike hit the ground without leaving a trace. The Meteor Fall Sword Art was a mystery, and everyone understood it differently. The Sword Emperor saw it as the movement of thought, describing a powerful and invincible thread connecting thoughts with the physical. This thread made it possible to comprehend what we saw. Tian took that theory and added the Yin and Yang Mantra, enhancing his strikes tenfold. He saw the sword as the extension connecting Yin and Yang, bridging the gaps between Night and Day, Heaven and Earth. With this concept, Tian unleashed a barrage of strikes, each untraceable until they hit their point. "Ten Thousand Sword Storm," Tian unleashed a second series of techniques. All the swords swirled into a menacing vortex and pierced a distant mountain. The scene was as if Autumn leaves were rushing towards the mountain and as soon as they collided, the entire mountain was quickly leveled. "I''ve finally mastered the seventh Sword of the Timeless Sword Manual!" Tian was elated with his success. "I am now just a few steps from being a Sword Immortal." Tian stood at the High Peak like a young god, looking absolutely stunning and charming after having gone through the 3-9 Soulflare Tribulation. In one smooth motion, Tian drew his hand back, dispersing his domain. The dark mist and gold flames vanished, leaving behind the icy stillness of the mountain. He took a deep breath, his chest heaving as he absorbed the final remnants of the Heavenly Tribulation¡¯s power. The ground beneath him shimmered with residual heat, and the golden light from the heavens faded, leaving the Elder Peak bathed in a tranquil glow. Then, breaking the silence, Yingsha gave a small laugh, perhaps to mask the awe and fear in his voice. ¡°Well, looks like there was nothing to worry about after all!¡± murmurs rippled through the crowd, tense at first, but then, as Tian remained silent, it grew more natural. They were relieved, thrilled¡ªand perhaps just a little scared. The Young Master had returned to them, but he was no longer the same. Tian looked out over them, his eyes still ablaze with the energy of his transformation. Yet there was a hint of kindness, a reminder of the person he had once been. The echoes of the Heavenly Bell had barely faded, and the Sect was still caught in the throes of awe. Tian''s ascension¡ªthe birth of the Phoenix Sovereign¡ªhad left every disciple and elder speechless, marveling at the raw power and untamed energy that now radiated from him. The skies, once blackened with clouds and thrumming with the fury of tribulation, were calm and pristine as if they too recognized Tian¡¯s transformation. Disciples gathered around the central arena, exchanging glances filled with disbelief, excitement, and a touch of fear. Whispers buzzed through the air as they glanced up at the mountaintop where Tian had undergone his transformation, his silhouette framed against the golden sky. A sense of triumph, of victory hard-won, filled the Sect¡¯s grounds as the disciples celebrated their new Phoenix Sovereign. But just as the thrill of victory reached its peak, a chilling presence settled over the Sect like an unwelcome shadow. The High Peak, where Tian had transcended, still bore traces of celestial energy, an ethereal mist lingering like the memory of lightning. Whispers about his transformation rippled among the disciples as they trained, awe and excitement glinting in their eyes. Life in the Sect felt grander, filled with hope and potential. Then, without warning, a chill swept through the Sect grounds, a subtle change in the air that made every disciple pause mid-action. The temperature dropped, and the vibrant energy that had suffused the atmosphere moments before was suddenly veiled by a heavy, unfamiliar aura. The clang of weapons stopped, the chants faded, and an unnatural stillness settled over the Sect. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. At the gates, a lone figure approached the Sect gates. Riding on a horse, he was draped in a not so modest but well-kept cloak, woven from a dark fabric that seemed to drink in the morning light. His face was stern yet dignified, his eyes sharp and piercing, like twin voids that absorbed everything in their gaze. He carried himself with a quiet authority, an intensity that seemed to demand attention. Each step he took toward the heart of the Sect was slow and deliberate, his movements fluid but controlled. As he advanced, disciples and lower-ranking elders instinctively stepped aside, caught between curiosity and an unnamed fear. His pace was measured, and steady, each step imbued with an authority that didn¡¯t need to be announced. He exuded an aura that seemed to compress the air around him, as though the very world bent slightly under his presence. The light around him dimmed, and the temperature dropped, sending chills down the spines of those near enough to sense his approach. The man was not tall, nor was he adorned in lavish robes, yet his presence commanded attention with a weight that was almost tangible. His gaze, sharp and dark, held a depth that seemed to devour everything in sight, leaving an eerie silence in its wake. He stopped just within the Sect¡¯s threshold, and his piercing eyes scanned the scene, taking in the triumphant disciples with a detached sort of interest. Then, with a soft, nearly inaudible sigh, he stepped forward. A handful of younger disciples in the courtyard noticed him first, their laughter dying in their throats as they turned to see this stranger¡¯s approach. The man walked with purpose, his stride unwavering, until he stopped in the center of the courtyard, his gaze calm and unyielding. Around him, murmurs began to ripple through the crowd. "Who is he?" "Do you feel that aura? He¡¯s no ordinary visitor." "Is he a messenger from another Sect?" The disciples whispered among themselves, exchanging confused and wary glances. Some clutched their weapons more tightly, while others simply watched in silent fascination, unsure whether this man was friend or foe. In the Elder Hall, several senior members of the Sect had gathered, still discussing Tian¡¯s astonishing feat. Their voices carried excitement and pride, their faces alight with the prospect of what the Flame Sovereign¡¯s ascension might mean for the future of their Sect. But just as they delved deeper into the possibilities, an acolyte hurried in, his face pale and tense. ¡°Honored Elders,¡± he began, bowing low. ¡°A stranger has arrived at the Sect. His presence¡­ it¡¯s unsettling. He asked for an audience.¡± The Sect Elders turned, their expressions shifting from reverence to suspicion in a heartbeat. One of the older Elders, his gaze sharp with years of experience, stepped forward and cleared his throat. ¡°Who dares enter our sacred grounds unannounced?¡± he demanded, his voice firm but laced with underlying caution. The Elders felt his power; none could deny the aura he carried, like a sword held just barely in check. The High Elder, a man with a long silver beard and piercing eyes, narrowed his gaze. ¡°A stranger? Did he state his purpose?¡± The acolyte hesitated, looking unsure. ¡°No, but¡­ he carries himself with the bearing of someone formidable. He appears to be¡­ waiting.¡± Curiosity mixed with suspicion as the elders exchanged glances. Rising from their seats, they moved toward the courtyard, their expressions wary. Outside, Li Jinan stood, his gaze sweeping over the disciples who dared to meet his eyes. When the elders arrived, his focus shifted, and he inclined his head in a slight bow¡ªa gesture of respect, though his gaze remained cold and unreadable. His movements were precise, calculated, as if every action was a piece of some grand design. The High Elder approached, his eyes narrowing as he studied the man before him. ¡°You arrive at our Sect unannounced,¡± he said, his tone formal yet edged with suspicion. ¡°We do not know who you are or why you come, yet you bring with you an aura that disrupts our harmony. State your purpose.¡± Li Jinan lifted his head, his expression impassive. ¡°I apologize if my arrival has disturbed your peace. I am Li Jinan,¡± he said, his voice low but carrying a gravitas that seemed to fill the entire courtyard. ¡°I am a servant of the Ashen Clan.¡± The mere mention of the Ashen Clan sent a ripple of shock through the assembled crowd. Gasps echoed among the disciples and elders alike, their eyes widening in recognition and disbelief. Sixteen years had passed since anyone had spoken openly of the Ashen Clan, a name that had slipped into the realm of legend after their sudden disappearance. The head elder¡¯s face tightened, his brow furrowing as he measured the stranger¡¯s words. ¡°The, the¡­ The Sacred Family¡­ vanished many years ago. What connection do you, a so-called servant, have with them? And what business could a servant of a fallen clan have with our Sect?¡± Li¡¯s expression remained calm, unreadable. ¡°The Ashen Clan may have disappeared, but not all of its lineage is lost,¡± he replied, his eyes shifting to meet the head elder¡¯s gaze with a piercing intensity. ¡°I have come to retrieve the one I serve¡ªthe son of my Mistress.¡± A hushed silence fell over the crowd as his words hung in the air. Disciples exchanged bewildered looks, while the elders stiffened, their expressions hardening with disbelief and confusion. "The son of your Mistress?" one elder echoed, skepticism etched into his voice. "What do you mean by this? No one here is of the Ashen bloodline." Chapter 8: First Encounter Li¡¯s eyes glinted with quiet patience as if he had anticipated the question. ¡°I do not expect you to know,¡± he said, his voice even and unyielding. ¡°But I am here for him, the one you call Young Master. It is said that he would come of age, and the time had arrived. My duty is to bring him home.¡± The murmurs resumed, this time louder, disciples and elders alike now buzzing with speculation. Meanwhile, on the mountaintop, Tian stood, his gaze wandering over the Sect grounds below. He felt the change in the air, a chill that prickled his senses. His intuition, sharpened from years of training, told him that something¡ªsomeone¡ªhad arrived. He smirked, an amused glint in his eyes as he watched, his curiosity piqued. He focused on hearing, only to catch a circle of disciples gathered around the Elder Hall, whispering furiously among themselves, expressions varying from wonder to fear. ¡°Is this true? Could Young Master¡­?¡± ¡°But it was said he¡¯s not from Kunlun! How could he be a descendant of the Ashen Clan?¡± ¡°Why would this man claim such a thing now, of all times?¡± The head elder¡¯s face was unreadable, his mind racing as he considered the implications of Li¡¯s words. ¡°If you claim him as the ¡®son of the Ashen Clan,¡¯ you must have proof.¡± Li¡¯s gaze did not falter, though a subtle hint of challenge flickered in his eyes. ¡°Proof? The very fact that His Highness ascended today, is proof enough. Only the direct descendants of our clan could awaken such a powerful, ancient vermilion bloodline.¡± The elders stiffened, exchanging wary glances. The timing was uncanny. Tian¡¯s recent ascension, the arrival of this man¡­ could it truly be a coincidence? Seeing their hesitation, Li took a step forward, his gaze unwavering. ¡°Your Sect has welcomed him, natured him well,¡± he continued, his voice carrying a faint note of respect. ¡°But his part in all this is far greater than any of you realize. I am bound by the will of the Ashen Clan to bring him back to where he belongs.¡± A ripple of silence fell over the crowd, each disciple and elder processing this unexpected revelation. The tension in the air was thick, charged with the weight of an unknown fate. ¡°Is that¡­ is he really a servant of the Sacred Clan?¡± one disciple whispered. ¡°Could it be¡­ our Young Master is of noble blood?¡± ¡°That would explain his monstrous power,¡± another replied in awe. ¡°But why now? Why has no one come for him until today?¡± The air in the Sect buzzed with a strange energy, a ripple of intrigue and suspicion that had swept through every corner since Li Jinan¡¯s unexpected arrival. Younger disciples gathered in tight circles, whispering feverishly about the mysterious man who had walked into their midst, his bearing both commanding and oddly familiar. ¡°Do you think he¡¯s really some long-lost relative of the Young Master?¡± one asked, eyes wide with excitement. ¡°Relative? He looks more like an assassin to me,¡± another murmured, glancing around as if expecting Li to reappear from the shadows. In the training grounds, some of the more seasoned disciples observed with wary eyes, their instincts telling them that Li Jinan was no ordinary visitor. They had learned over the years to read the faintest signs of power, and whatever Li was hiding, it was deep and ancient. This, they knew, was no casual visit¡ªit was a ripple from the past, disturbing the present. Meanwhile, the Sect elders convened in a solemn chamber, the dim candlelight casting long shadows across their faces. Seated around a circular stone table, each elder bore an expression of concern, even suspicion. ¡°Have we truly allowed a stranger to simply walk into our Sect and lay claim to one of our own?¡± Elder Wang broke the silence, his tone sharp and laced with mistrust. ¡°Young Master may be reckless, but we know his strength. He is our future. We cannot simply let him be whisked away by a man with cryptic stories.¡± This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Elder Hua, sighed, folding her hands in her lap. ¡°And yet, there is something we cannot deny. The man¡¯s aura¡­ What if his claims hold truth?¡± Elder Wang scoffed. ¡°Truth? He appears out of nowhere, claiming to be a servant of the Sacred Clan¡ªan ancient family that vanished without a trace. Sixteen years is a long time to carry loyalty. Who knows his true motives?¡± At that, High Elder sighed, his voice steady and thoughtful. ¡°Perhaps we should ask ourselves a different question: does the Young Master belong here with us, or is his destiny beyond this Sect?¡± The words hung heavily in the air, stirring unspoken worries and half-acknowledged suspicions. ¡°Destiny¡­¡± murmured Elder Xu, who rarely spoke unless he felt compelled. ¡°We¡¯ve known since he arrived that he was no ordinary child. The Phoenix flame that he mastered¡ªnone among us could have brought that power forth. It¡¯s not ours to keep.¡± The elders fell silent, each grappling with the implications of Elder Xu¡¯s words. Though they¡¯d raised Tian, guided him, and watched him grow, there had always been an understanding, even if unspoken: Tian was something more, someone they couldn¡¯t entirely contain. Meanwhile, Tian stood amidst the aftermath of his breakthrough in a serene garden, atop the peak¡ªhis newly awakened Black Flame still flickered faintly around refusing to burn out. He surveyed the horizon, still rippling from the forces he had unleashed, only to find himself facing an unexpected figure: a man clad in traditional robes of black and silver, his aura hidden yet precise, as though each of his movements had been practiced over countless lifetimes. The figure took a step forward, his gaze unfaltering. Tian tilted his head, eyeing the stranger with wary amusement. ¡°And you are?¡± ¡°One Will, One Flame¡ªAbove all Sects, Beyond all Kings. Your Highness,¡± Li addressed him, the words rolling off his tongue with reverence. ¡°I am Li Jinan.¡± Tian raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a smirk as he studied the stranger before him. He had always been waiting for someone like he was told. But this? A servant from a long-lost clan? His amusement masked the flicker of unease that stirred within him. ¡°Is that supposed to mean something?¡± he replied, his tone laced with mock nonchalance. Li¡¯s expression softened, though his eyes held an intensity that belied his calm exterior. ¡°Indeed, Your Highness. I am here only to guide you back, as I was sworn to do.¡± Tian¡¯s smirk widened, a spark of intrigue igniting in his gaze. ¡°Well, servant of the Sacred Clan, I have to admit you have balls. But if you¡¯ve come all this way, I might as well entertain you.¡± The man met Tian¡¯s gaze without flinching, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. ¡°My name is Li Jinan, Your Highness. And I have awaited the day I could fulfill my duty¡­ the day I would find the son of my Mistress and bring him back.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Tian¡¯s tone was light, his skepticism veiled beneath a casual smirk. ¡° Sounds a bit vague, don¡¯t you think?¡± Li¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile, unbothered by Tian¡¯s sarcasm. ¡°Forgive me, Your Highness. Words do little justice to the truth. But certain truths cannot simply be told¡ªthey must be realized. Especially when it concerns a legacy as profound as yours.¡± His gaze was steady, holding Tian¡¯s with a gravity that felt as old as the earth itself. Tian¡¯s eyebrows lifted in bemusement, his eyes glinting with a mixture of curiosity and cynicism. ¡°Interesting choice of words, old man. But I wasn¡¯t born yesterday. I¡¯ve dealt with enough cryptic strangers to recognize an act when I see one.¡± He chuckled, crossing his arms. ¡°What¡¯s next, a prophecy?¡± Li¡¯s composure remained unbroken, his gaze piercing. ¡°Prophecy? No. It¡¯s far simpler than that.¡± He gestured subtly as if to emphasize his point. ¡°This is about who you are, Your Highness¡­ and who you were meant to be.¡± Tian clenched his jaw, brushing off the sense of unease that had settled in his chest. ¡°Who I am, huh? Nice try. My life¡¯s an open book, and it doesn¡¯t involve any mythical clans or none of that. Whatever story you think you¡¯ve got figured out, it¡¯s not mine.¡± But Li only inclined his head, seemingly unbothered by Tian¡¯s rejection. ¡°Perhaps it is not the tale you know,¡± he conceded, his voice calm. ¡°But tell me this, Your Highness: haven¡¯t you ever wondered why the flame within you feels as though it belongs to you from the start? Why the fire you wield has never been mastered before?¡± Tian fell silent, his fists clenching as he considered the words. There were indeed moments, brief flashes in time when his flames seemed to echo with a haunting resonance, a depth he couldn¡¯t quite place. But admitting it would mean opening a door he¡¯d long kept shut. ¡°Interesting,¡± he said finally, a defensive edge in his tone. ¡°I¡¯ve heard enough. Whatever it is you¡¯re selling, I¡¯m not buying. So why don¡¯t you take your riddles and head back to wherever it is you came from?¡± Li Jinan¡¯s expression didn¡¯t falter. ¡°Perhaps, then, it is not my words that will convince you.¡± He paused, then added, ¡°Do you still have the Black Amulet of Xinghua?¡± Tian¡¯s heart stilled. The Black Amulet of Xinghua, also known as the Phoenix Tear¡ªwas the only thing that the old monks said his mother had left him with. It was a memory that felt like a dream, distant yet somehow familiar.