《Rise of the Hunter: I can travel to the Cultivation World!》


 Chapter 1: A fight for survivial

    "Argh¡­ "


    Jihoon cried out as his body was tossed across the air. He rolled on the ground and used the momentum of the throw to stand up again.


    If I fail here ¡­I am nothing.


    His breath was ragged.


    His body was battered.


    Yet his eyes shone with the same enthusiasm and slight excitement as before.


    His scarred fingers gripped the hilt of the sword as the tension between the two groups became palpable.


    He looked ahead, focusing on his enemies.


    Within a small clearing inside a forest stood five green monsters snarling at him each with a weapon in hand.


    Even though he stood a couple of meters away the odor still made his nose wrinkle.


    Their sharp front teeth, rotten, dangerously stuck out of their mouths like daggers as spit drooled down through the corners of their mouth.


    Goblins, all at the same rank as him. Yet here he was struggling.


    Everyone at the top has already cleared this dungeon and they are at the same rank as me.


    He thought dissatisfied with a frown on his face.


    What Jihoon did not know was that even though they were at the same rank, they had been longer awakened than him and were one minor rank above him when they challenged this dungeon.


    So standing here as somebody who practically just awakened three days ago and just at the beginning of F-Rank, was a death sentence.


    However, even if he knew that he would still have done the same.


    I need to catch up¡­ some have been awakened for months!


    With newfound courage and willpower, he lunged forward at the nearest sword and shield-wielding Goblin.


    His sword, aimed at the throat of the Goblin, struck out like a snake.


    It whispered through the air as the stab made its way forward.


    The Goblins eyes widened with fear, as it hastily put up the shield trying to defend its vital area.


    However, because of its fear the Goblin put up its shield too far up, blocking its vision.


    Realizing its mistake, it tried to pull the shield down but it was too late.


    Stupid Monster.


    Jihoon smirked as he quickly changed the angle of his sword.


    He stabbed the Goblin in the hip, breaking it and completely immobilizing it.


    The Goblin was now practically useless in this fight.


    The fight however was not over.


    He only managed to injure this Goblin because they underestimated him and he outsmarted them.


    Now the real struggle began.


    Or rather the fun as Jihoon continued grinning.


    However underneath that facade was just an insecure boy hiding his pain as his eyes gleamed with slight fear.


    Four remaining¡­ this is going to be hard. I may die here.


    His chest heaved up and down.


    He quickly calmed himself as he focused again on the enemy.


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    But if I win¡­ I will be stronger.


    He smiled at the thought of growing stronger.


    Just as he was about to make the next move.


    One of the Goblins suddenly charged at him.


    He closed the distance in an instant and tried slashing across Jihoons torso.


    He blocked the Goblin''s sword and just as he was about to counter another Goblin attacked him from the side.


    He saw the Goblin through his peripheral vision and quickly jumped back.


    This is a lot harder than I thought it would be¡­ how did they do this? How did they solo these dungeons months and weeks ago?


    There was however no time to dwell on things that did not matter right now.


    The third and fourth Goblin attacked him at the same time from each side.


    I can''t dodge this ¡­


    He thought grimly and gritted his teeth.


    He knew he had to decide which attack to take on and which let him hit.


    And he knew that the Goblins knew.


    So he did something no sane person would do.


    He tilted his body and let both daggers pierce his body, making sure they did not injure any vital organs that would make him bleed out in the next couple of seconds.


    The Goblin''s eyes widened and just as they were about to pull out their daggers, Jihoon grinned towards the Goblin in front of him.


    He swung his blade, slashing the Goblins'' throat. A sure kill.


    It let go of the dagger as it clamped its hands around its throat to stop the artery from leaking blood.


    Without any hesitation, he turned around and swung his blade towards the Goblin behind him.


    However, the Goblin used the time it took to kill his comrade to react as it pulled out the dagger and tried stabbing him again.


    However, Jihoons blade was already on its way towards the Goblin''s throat trying to end this fight before the other Goblins could intervene.


    Unfortunately for him, the Goblin unintentionally defended its throat by lifting up his arm to stab him.


    He slashed the dagger-wielding arm and just as he was about to slash again the other Goblin attacked him.


    It stabbed his left arm, Jihoon let out a small cry of pain as his flesh felt a burning sensation and blood started to leak yet from another wound.


    However, he did not have time to adjust to the pain as a Goblin stabbed towards his neck trying to slice it off in one go.


    Jihoon quickly dodged by jumping back and putting distance between him and the other Goblins.


    One dead, two injured, one being useless. So three remain.


    I can do this¡­


    He thought as he looked down towards his left arm.


    Even if I win I don''t know if I can make it out alive¡­ should I use Mana now? No, I need to wait. I can only use the Seven Star skill for a short amount of time.


    He took out the green vial hanging on his belt, popped it open, and drank it.


    My only healing potion¡­


    Unlike his classmates, Jihoon could not afford any potions after spending all his money on the sword.


    No Mana potions.


    No Stamina potions.


    And now no Healing potions.


    The wounds on his body slowly started to close and stopped bleeding. The Healing Potion however did not heal him completely. He was still exhausted, his bones hurt and a few drops of blood still kept leaking.


    While Jihoon drank his potion, the Goblins formed a formation with the injured Goblin staying behind the two sword-wielding Goblins.


    I kill one and then I activate the Body Strengthening skill hopefully that will be enough.


    He quickly lunged towards the Goblins trying to catch them off guard, unfortunately, all of them had their eyes on him.


    He stabbed towards the right Goblin, the sword rustling through the air. It got blocked as the sound of metal clinging echoed through the dungeon.


    Jihoon quickly recovered and moved back before the other Goblins could attack him.


    Without thinking the right Goblin rushed at him swinging its sword and yelling.


    He blocked the sword, his arm trembling as he quickly rolled to the side picking up some dirt.


    With one Goblin behind him and one in front Jihoon knew that it was now or never.


    He lunged at the other Goblin who was protecting the injured dagger-wielding Goblin.


    Now!


    Jihoon thought as he was only a couple of meters away.


    He stirred the Mana in his unstable circle around his heart as the Mana flowed from his circle through his Mana Pathways towards two stars in his legs, the circle trembled barely sending any Mana.


    This was however enough, his increased speed surprised the Goblin as it focused on Jihoons sword, not noticing his other hand throwing dirt in its eyes.


    The Goblin, now blind for a split second, tried to get the dirt out as it swung its sword around widely.


    Jihoon quickly went around and went for the injured Goblin.


    Ignoring the both Goblins now behind him Jihoon stabbed the dagger wielding Goblin in the throat directly killing it.


    The other Goblins however did not let this situation go as they slashed his back while snarling with hatred.


    Jihoon tried to dodge but it was fruitless as his body was thrown towards the start of the fight by his own and the Goblins'' momentum.


    Now besides the first Goblin, Jihoon quickly put it out of its misery, stabbing it in its heart.


    I have enough Mana for about two uses or one longer use!


    He looked at both Goblins and activated the Seven Star Strengthening skill as he blocked both of their swords.


    The sound of metal clinging echoed again through the dungeon. As injuries started to accumulate on the Goblins'' bodies Jihoon knew that he could win however his Mana would not be enough to finish the fight.


    So he had to take a risk.


    Even if it meant sacrificing a little blood.


    One of the Goblins stabbed towards him, using this chance he stretched out his hand letting the Goblin stab his palm.


    Using this opportunity he quickly killed the immobilized Goblin and sprang back.


    Jihoon backed down and deactivated the Body Strengthening skill, thinking that he could relax for a moment and regain some of his Mana. As his Mana was standing on its last legs.


    Unfortunately for him, luck was not on his side.


    The death of the next Goblin seemed to trigger something in the last Goblin as its eyes turned completely red.


    Its breath started to accelerate, it seemed as if its lungs doubled in size. Each breath was longer and faster than the one before.


    Goblins Rage¡­ I need to act now!


    Jihoon sprung into action. Ignoring the pain in his whole body he was prepared to finish the Goblin as fast as possible.


    He activated Body Strengthening again, increasing his speed as the stars in his legs started to rotate the Mana around.


    However the Goblin, now completely lost to their instincts, immediately lunged at him with its eyes filled with hatred.


    Jihoon however did not back down. He knew that this was the type of fight he needed to grow.


    The Mana provided from the deaths of the other Goblins was almost enough to rank up to Mid F Rank.


    He quickly blocked the first stab of the Goblin as he deflected the sword towards the ground where it got stuck.


    Just as he thought he got his last kill, the Goblin let go of the sword and directly punched Jihoon in the face.


    The force of the punch lifted him up and tossed him across the ground. The grip on his sword loosened as blood started to flow from his mouth.


    The Goblin stood before him snickering, clearly enjoying his suffering.


    His teeth were broken.


    His nose caved in.


    He could barely breathe as he swallowed blood and teeth with every breath he took. The taste of iron filled his mouth as his smile slowly faded.


    Is this the end? Is this as far as I can come? IS THIS WHAT I AMOUNT TO? DID MY FAMILY DIE JUST FOR ME TO GIVE UP?


    He screamed in his mind as the death of his parents and sister kept playing in his mind.


    His Mana was barely enough to keep going.


    However, he had one last chance.


    One last attack.


    No matter what¡­ I WILL NOT GIVE UP!


    He slowly stood up, his battered body barely allowing him. Blood kept seething from his body slowly forming a puddle around his body.


    Jihoon fought through pain, fear of death, and insecurity just to stand up.


    One last attack, even if I die.


    As he put his mind to it. He was ready.


    Suddenly a deep and cryptic voice echoed through the dungeon yet Jihoon did not notice it.


    "Finally somebody worthy has appeared¡­ Oh young one I am sorry for the responsibility I am about to bestow upon you."


    He picked up the sword and gripped it with hatred. He looked at the Goblin as it stood there laughing at his miserable state.


    Without any hesitation, he lunged at the Goblin as he activated his Mana.


    Just as the moment that decided everything was about to commerce, Jihoons vision turned black.


    In a black space surrounded by nothing, Jihoons screams echoed through the space. As his body was slowly deconstructed and reconstructed a golden tattoo appeared on his back.


    The golden tattoo started to hum in a golden color before slowly disappearing into his body.


    A second later Jihoons body disappeared in black smoke.

 Chapter 2: New World

    After what seemed an eternity the pain subsided and Jihoon''s unconscious body started to stir.


    Am I alive?


    He thought as he moved his limbs to check on his uninjured body.


    Jihoon''s frown started to grow bigger as his hands stroked the new scars all around his body. He was healed, yet all his scars remained, as his hand unconsciously hovered over the scar across his right eye.


    Suddenly his eyes focused on the world around him.


    He was not in the dungeon anymore.


    He lay on a patch of grass surrounded by trees so tall that they resembled skyscrapers. A small breeze slowly caressed his skin, carrying the summer smell of freshly baked earth inside his nostrils.


    Where am I?


    Jihoon wondered as he smacked his lips.


    Did I finish the dungeon and got teleported out? But how? I did not kill the Hobgoblin nor did I kill enough Goblins for it to be considered done. So how?


    He stood up and looked around, to his left he could see a small river flowing down.


    Should I follow the river?


    To his right, he could see a small dirt road in the distance.


    Looks like I found my way back. No matter where I am, it should not be far from Seoul.


    Jihoon smirked as he made his way forward.


    He made small but confident strides towards the road making sure that his body was alright.


    Annoyed by the sun Jihoon, raised his hand to block the sunlight from entering his eyes before looking up and getting the shock of his life.


    "Three suns!"


    Jihoons deep voice exclaimed as his hands trembled.


    His body started hyperventilating as the terrified thought of being stranded on an alien planet entered his mind.


    He just survived, barely, and yet here was again somewhere stranded without knowing his fate.


    However as terrified as he was he knew the universal law, what does not kill you makes you stronger as he was the perfect example of it.


    His hand again hovered across his scar as he got his breathing under control and stopped his trembling hands.


    He got back to walking towards the road however fate did not enjoy his peaceful moments.


    "Look at that brothers!"


    A loud voice behind him exclaimed as he quickly turned around.


    Behind him stood five humans, with Asian features. They were wearing long black overcoats that slightly hid their faces and weapons.


    "I am sure that that pretty boy will fetch us a pretty big sum!"


    Another voice snickers.


    Bandits!


    At least there are humans on this planet!


    "Look at him trembling in fear! Come on pretty boy!"


    The five bandits laughed out loud.


    Jihoon first thought in shock but sighed a sigh of relief after realizing that at least he was not alone.


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    "L-Listen to us! If- f-if you leave the-that sword on the ground and come over to us pe-peacefully we will keep all your limbs in-intact!"


    Said one bandit with a stuttering problem.


    Jihoon gripped the handle of his sword tighter realising that peaceful negotiation was not on the table.


    They have no Mana. Normal humans? I need information about this place.


    Jihoon lifted his sword and shouted.


    "Listen! If you give me the information I need I will keep you alive!"


    Even though he put up a tough front he had never killed a human, so even if they did not provide him with anything he did not think that he could keep his promise.


    "Arrogant!"


    The bandits shouted before one sprung into action.


    Fast!


    Thought Jihoon.


    The bandit was way faster than a normal human, his big, large strides looked like he was floating towards Jihoon.


    A little bit slower than the Goblin! But that should not be possible for a normal human being.


    After all, Goblins were monsters that had their body transformed by Mana yet these humans that looked like bandits with no Mana in their body were almost as fast as these monsters?


    Jihoon was confused but did not let this distract him.


    He blocked the oncoming attack with ease, shocking not only the bandit but also himself.


    Did I get stronger? I did not even use Mana but my speed and strength are comparable with me using the Seven Star technique.


    He disarmed the bandit before kicking him in the sternum and flinging his body back.


    "Argh..!"


    Cried the bandit. Jihoon was pretty sure he had at least broken a rib or two.


    "Brothers, that pretty boy is a First-Rate Martial Artist! Be careful!"


    First-Rate Martial Artist? What''s that?


    The others recovered from their shock and the bandits started whispering to themselves.


    "First-Rate Martial Artist! But he is so young!"


    "The Boss is one too but he is at least double his age!"


    "No matter how strong a First Rate Martial Artist is, as five Second Rate Martial Artists, we should be able to defeat him right?"


    The others nodded unsure, but imagining the riches they could gain from selling him to a noble family and the valuables on his body they gained some confidence.


    They were going to attack him but not before making sure.


    "Young Master! We are terribly sorry for attacking you! Could you please tell us from which Martial Family you are?"


    All five of them bowed, even the injured one. They were, however, ready to bounce in each direction.


    Young Master? Marital Family? Do they think I am some type of prodigy of a rich family?


    Jihoons brain went into overdrive. He noticed their readiness to flee if he said something wrong. Should he lie and say that he is from a Martial Family?


    No, they would run.


    "Young Master my ass!"


    Jihoon shouted and seeing their smirks he knew he made the right decision.


    Jihoon lunged at them, simultaneously as they did.


    The sound of metal clinging echoed through the forest, Jihoon was clearly gaining the upper hand as time went on.


    He slashed the hand of the previously injured bandit making him fall to his knees.


    The bandits, even though slightly shocked regained their focus quickly.


    They continued their bout thinking they still had a chance.


    However things didn''t go as they planned.


    Jihoon''s body was working like a machine tirelessly.


    Blocking, dodging, and counter-attacking every move.


    Even though he was one of the latest to awaken and one of the weakest, his skill with the sword was at the top of the school.


    Now with his strengthened body, he fought effortlessly.


    The bandits'' bodies started to accumulate more and more injuries.


    Their bodies riddled with wounds started to paint the grass red as their eyes started to fill with uncertainty.


    They underestimated him


    They had no chance.


    As they looked at each other they realised that everybody was thinking the same thing.


    Time to flee!


    Realizing that they were about to flee, Jihoon stopped playing and attacked their limbs.


    He cut the legs of three bandits, while the other two turned around to run in different directions.


    Jihoon quickly turned around after slicing up the first three and ran after the one to his left.


    "Argh¡­!"


    The cry of a bandit was heard as Jihoon slashed one of the fleeing bandits.


    He quickly turned around and searched for the last one fleeing.


    Seeing the last one to flee and having already put a distance between the two, Jihoon decided to activate his Mana technique.


    However as he tried activating his technique he noticed that no Mana flowed towards his legs, so as he tried activating the technique the stars formed yet no Mana flowed towards them as they started to deform and suddenly exploded.


    Falling straight onto his face Jihoons legs and head started to hurt.


    As he lay their information started to appear in his head.


    Seeing this the injured bandits exclaimed in joy as they thought their time was not over yet.


    They tried to stand up but their injured bodies made it hard for them to even move. However, not wanting to die, they gathered all of their willpower and tried as hard as they could.


    But a cold voice from behind made all their hopes shatter.


    "Where do you think you are going?"


    Jihoon said venomously.


    His whole body was in pain, and his head hurt extremely from the information.


    Apparently there was no Mana in this world and only an energy called Qi.


    Thinking he was back to his past unawakened self made Jihoon furious. Not even bothering to check if his Mana Circles were still there.


    "Now that everyone is here, how about we talk a little?"


    Jihoon stabbed the sword in the ground and sat down on a stone.


    Seeing the terrified face of everyone made him a little satisfied but he quickly caught himself.


    "What are Martial Artists that you speak of?"


    The bandits hesitated a little as they looked at each other confused.


    "Answer me now!"


    Jihoon yelled, still angry at his powerless self.


    "S-Sir!" One of the bandits says. "Martial Artists are beings that strengthen their body through Martial techniques."


    Jihoon prompted them to continue.


    Another one continued politely.


    "Martial Artists are ranked from Third to first rate with Innate Grandmaster being the absolute peak."


    "Ar- are you not a Martial Artist?" The one with the stutter continued. " Are you perhaps a c-c-c-cultivator?!"


    Suddenly everyone''s eyes widened with fear as they realised they might have made the biggest mistake of their lives.


    Do they think I am some kind of cultivator? What''s that? Whatever that is made them terrified.


    "Yes, you are right."


    An audible gasp was heard from the bandits as the nervous one fell unconscious.


    They are that terrified? That''s good.


    "Then what are Martial families?"


    The remaining ones know toed even though their bodies were barely able to move.


    "Oh honored one! Martial families are families that train in Martial arts and have at least one Innate Grandmaster in their family."


    "Their heirs are notoriously known for being ruthless and strong!"


    Hmm, interesting. These 5 had bodies almost as strong as a newly awakened Hunter that did not use Mana.


    This means that first-rate Martial Artists should have the body of a newly awakened and Innate Grandmaster may be as strong as an F-Rank Hunter!


    Jihoon was excited. This information was groundbreaking. There are two commonly known ways to awaken.


    One is to gather the Mana from the surroundings and try to condense the first circle that way.


    This was an excruciating process that relied on talent and money.


    This was also the way Jihoon awakened.


    The other way and a lot more risky way was to try and kill an awakened monster. That way the body automatically absorbs enough Mana and the Hunter only has to condense his circle.


    However, this process was extremely risky and forbidden since 99% of people who try it die.


    Meaning that if Jihoon could bring a Martial technique back home, the possibilities would be endless for him.


    Realizing something he quickly focused his mind on his heart and was immensely relieved.


    Holy shit. My Mana Circles are still there, they just don''t have any Mana in them.


    He focused on the surroundings trying to draw Mana in to recover yet nothing happened.


    Looks like I can only rely on my natural regeneration and I can only increase my Cirlces at home...


    Wait...


    HOW DO I GET BACK HOME?!

 Chapter 3: Bandits

    At that moment, Jihoon''s head started to hurt again, and new information started to appear in his head.


    He did not know but the tattoo on his back turned golden and started to hum with a golden light.


    He grabbed his head but his eyes never left the bandits in front of him.


    He just needed time. If he wanted to return to his world, he would need to spend a certain amount here before being teleported back.


    Unfortunately, he could not control this ability. At least not yet. He needed to be stronger.


    After receiving the information Jihoons attention turned back to the bandits.


    "Tell me more information about this place."


    The bandits, confused, delayed their answer a little bit but answered.


    "Ehm¡­ Honored one! We are in the Emerald Veil Forest!"


    This does not help¡­


    "Where are we in this world?"


    The bandits looked at each other confused but answered.


    "Honored one! W-We are on the Shattered Star Continent!"


    "Tell me more¡­ where are the other continents?


    "Honored one! We do not know how many continents there are on Azure World, we only know that to the south the Golden Sun Continent lies."


    The bandits started to get suspicious, this was basic information every Martial artist should know let alone a cultivator, they should know even more.


    Jihoon however did not notice their suspicion and even if he did he could not allow himself to care, he needed the information.


    Even if it meant risking his identity as a cultivator whatever that may mean.


    "Then tell me how does an Innate Grandmaster compare to a Cultivator?"


    "Honored one! An Innate Grandmaster should be as strong as a Cultivator who just broke through the first realm, after all, Grandmasters can use Innate Energy to compete!


    Interesting considering the facts an Innate Grandmaster should be as strong as an F-Rank Hunter using Mana, maybe stronger because of their experience.


    Jihoon thought as he stroked his chin unknowingly.


    So I should be as strong as an Innate Grandmaster, but they were confused because I did not use any energy.


    With the information at hand, Jihoon knew he had to find out what Cultivators were, however for now Martial Arts had the same importance.


    "Say where is the nearest city or town?"


    Jihoons voice, now sharper than before, made the terrified bandits even more scared as they began shivering.


    "H-honored one! There is no city that we know of but there is a town two months away from here¡­"


    Jihoons eyes narrowed.


    "But there is a village just two days from here. Yes! Yes!"


    Looks like I need to go to the village to find out more about Cultivators¡­ I will go there disguised as a First Rate Warrior, that should be enough, I do not think that they would believe me if I told them I was an Innate Grandmaster.


    "Now let''s come to the last question and I will let you go¡­"


    The bandits started to get visibly excited and started kowtowing on the ground.


    Even though Jihoon knew it was probably not the best idea to let them go he knew he could not bring himself to kill them.


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    In his mind, there was not a good enough reason to do so.


    Especially when looking into their eyes.


    There was no sign of deceit nor did they think about revenge.


    Either they were better than the best actors on Earth or they were genuine.


    "What is Qi?"


    Suddenly the atmosphere changed. Even though Jihoon was in full control of the situation he could feel the sudden tension.


    They looked at each other, with a sudden understanding of the situation. Hatred started to appear in their eyes as they slowly turned red.


    Their breaths became hagged, and suddenly.


    They started shouting.


    "You dirty invader!"


    "Die! Die! Die!"


    What is happening?


    "You Demon! Leave our lands! Brothers, we have to let the world know! The Demons are back!."


    They tried to stand but they could so they started to crawl away while shouting profanities at him and yelling for help.


    What is happening? Why did they suddenly start yelling?? How did they conclude that I was an invader?! Are there other people with the same ability as me??


    Jihoons mind went into overdrive as he thought of all the possibilities that could have led to this out come. However, as they continued their terrified yells Jihoon realized something.


    I-I can''t let them live¡­


    Jihoon was horrified. He has never killed a person. Nor did he think he would need to. There were conflicts between Hunters but they rarely turned out deadly.


    Sure he killed monsters that were humanoid but that was different. They were monsters, the same monsters that killed his parents.


    These were humans. Real humans.


    "B-Brothers run! I will buy you time."


    One of the bandits cried as he crawled towards him while tears streamed down his face.


    It was the stuttering one.


    He did not even know his name.


    Yet here he was.


    About to take his life.


    His hands trembled as he gripped his sword.


    No! No! I-I can still talk myself out of this situation. Yes, I will explain it to them!


    Jihoon started talking.


    He tried to convince them that it was simply a misunderstanding and that he was actually an Innate Grandmaster.


    However, nothing worked...


    Everything fell on deaf ears as they continued shouting profanities.


    He then tried to tell them that he was not an Invader, then he told what had happened to him and how he got here but nothing helped.


    Exactly one minute later after the shouting began Jihoon made a decision.


    I need to kill them. With that kind of reaction...being labeled as an Invader is not something I could survive.


    His head became fuzzy and his hands trembled as he started to think about what he was about to do.


    But then he took a deep breath and came to a final verdict.


    He had to do it.


    For his survival.


    He looked down at the bandit below him, who just opened his mouth.


    He lifted his sword as he steadied his breath and his trembling hand.


    The bandit bit his leg, and one moment later his head was severed.


    His body lay there limp.


    Headless.


    Yet the head was still attached to his leg.


    The bandit bit so hard that his teeth were still in the flesh of Jihoon.


    He threw up.


    As his legs went limp, he lay there on the ground with tears streaming down his face questioning why.


    "Why¡­ why me?"


    He said between sobs. His mind shut down as the yells of the bandits became a distant voice.


    He wanted to do nothing more than lay down and sleep. Maybe it was all a dream?


    But he knew the job was not done.


    Unfortunately, he still had people to kill.


    The fog around his mind slowly lifted.


    He quickly gathered himself. He stood up wiped the snot and tears away and looked down to his feet.


    What he saw made him wanna throw up again but he held it in.


    He removed the head from his leg, ignoring the physical pain.


    After all the psychological pain was a lot worse.


    He looked at the bandits already ten meters away from him.


    They kept shouting, now even more terrified they tried to speed up.


    Their horrified cries echoed in Jihoons ears.


    But he knew he had to finish it now.


    Before anyone could hear their words.


    He wiped the vomit around the corners of his mouth away.


    The taste of vomit lingered in his mouth as he lunged at the bandits.


    One by one their yells ceased.


    He stabbed them in the hearts, trying to make their deaths as humane as possible.


    With each kill his hand trembled more and more.


    Jihoon now stood alone. Surrounded by corpses and the stillness of the forest.


    It was now that Jihoon noticed for the first time how quiet the forest was.


    At this moment he broke down. Again.


    Crying, balling his eyes out.


    He kept vomiting, he felt like his intestines were being pulled out.


    "Why¡­? Mom? Dad? Please¡­."


    He sniffed and fell unconscious.


    He was after all an 18-year-old high school student that just executed four horrified men for his survival.


    Fifteen minutes later he woke up again.


    He sat up confused before seeing the corpses and coming back to his senses.


    He looked around hurriedly to see if somebody saw him. But luckily nobody was there.


    Jihhon thought about hiding the corpses but decided against it after seeing their lifeless bodies.


    He quickly rummaged through their lifeless bodies searching for books that contained Martial Arts.


    Fucking hell¡­


    Jihoon''s eyes twitched as he became even more disgusted with himself and continued searching body by body.


    But he knew he had to do it. He knew what these Martial Arts would mean to him... to Amy...


    A couple of seconds later he found two books, stored them in a small bag, found one of the bandits, and quickly ran towards the road.


    While running he noticed that his legs stopped hurting less than before but he did not dare try to use Mana again.


    The forest swished by his side as he continued running, at first he started in a full sprint but after the adrenaline subsided he paced himself with a quick jog.


    One hour later Jihoon finally arrived at the dirt road. By now he has calmed down as he knew he had no other choice.


    Even though he felt bad about what he did he kept repeating to himself that he did it for his own survival.


    Slowly but surely his mind put these thoughts at the back of his head.


    But he knew this was not over. He would need to face his demons later.


    But not now...


    He thought to himself before his eyes focused on his bag.


    To distract himself he decided to look through the books.


    He opened his bag and looked at the first book.


    It was brown wrapped in leather but you could see the passage of time on the skin. The pages were already yellow and even slightly burnt but Jihoon did not care as he opened the book.


    What met him was the image of a man in what looked like a yoga position.


    He continued reading, completely fascinated by the book and its content.


    Ironblood Breath:


    Third Grade body strengthening technique


    A basic body strengthening method that enhances blood and toughens the muscles.


    Without any hesitation put the book away and took out the next one. It was also brown wrapped in leather but it was clearly a lot newer and cleaner.


    Opening the book he was again met with the image of a man but this time the man had a sword in his hand.


    Without lingering Jihoon continued reading.


    Iron Wind Draw:


    Second Grade sword technique


    A quick-draw technique focusing on delivering a heavy horizontal slash


    While these techniques were probably useless for high-level Hunters the possibilities are endless for low-ranked Hunters or even unawakened.


    After all, what if you could almost have the strength of a Hunter while being a normal unawakened human?


    You could easily become one by slaying a monster.


    After that, you would be a Hunter with above-average strength which would make dungeon raiding easier which in turn would allow you to gain more skills and equipment from dungeons.


    So even if these techniques only increased the strength by ten to twenty percent of a low ranked Hunter the domino effect would unforeseen.


    With this Amy will become a Hunter¡­


    Jihoon clenched his fist as his eyes watered a little bit.


    Then he looked into the sky and noticed that the sun started to set.


    Time to find a place to sleep¡­ After that, I will learn Martial Arts.

 Chapter 4: Martial Arts

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 Chapter 5: Mental Demons

    Jihoon felt confused. Why was his Mana Circle thinner? It did not make sense.


    However, he then realized something.


    My Mana Circles are still there!


    He sighed in relief. When he got hurt from using his Mana Technique he got scared that something had happened but luckily everything seemed fine.


    Well, almost everything.


    He focused on his heart. A single Circle was rotating around his heart. Slight Mana streaks were escaping the Circles. It might seem dangerous but Jihoon knew it was normal.


    The streaks escaping his Circle were just Mana he hadn''t refined yet. Sure, if it was a ton more, it would have been dangerous, but such a minuscule amount was nothing to worry about.


    To advance one''s Rank, one had to absorb unrefined Mana either from the air or by killing awakened beasts and monsters. The second option however was seen as much superior than the first one, as the speed depended on oneself the most.


    The Mana would travel inside his body and stop inside his Mana Circles.


    This Mana was however not usable as he would have to refine it, to make it his. To do that he would have to sit down and meditate and use his full mental power.


    While it is not completely known what increases the speed of absorption it was a known fact that the stronger one''s mental power and resilience the more and longer one could refine Mana.


    After the Mana was refined the Circle would grow to its maximum capacity, once it was grown to its maximum capacity you would be at Mid of a Rank.


    To reach the High stage of a Rank one had to compress the Circle, till it you cant anymore.


    Then to advance from one Rank to another one had to form another Mana Circle by again absorbing Mana. It is said that the more Mana you could put into a Circle, and then compress it, the higher quality that Circle would be.


    Knowing all this Jihoon tried to find out whether he somehow started compressing his Mana Circle.


    However after ten minutes of checking he had a bad premonition. He had doubled and tripled checked but he could only come up with one conclusion


    His Rank has regressed!


    He somehow went from only needing to refine his Mana to reach Mid F Rank to starting from the bottom again!


    Heh¡­so the dungeon is basically in vain.


    Veins started to appear on his forehead as he remembered the pain he had gone through. The scar he had to accept in order for him to grow.


    But now?


    Nothing.


    Everything was in vain.


    Jihoon took a couple of deep breaths to calm down but nothing seemed to help as even after a couple of minutes his anger had not vanished.


    He paced around the cave and even went for a brisk walk but he was still angry.


    Fuck it¡­


    Slowly physical and emotional exhaustion set in. His body grew heavier as his mind shut down.


    Not only did he fight Goblins and almost die, no he also had to kill his first human, arrive in a new world and have his progress reset.


    Even if he did not want to rest. Even if his mind and anger would not allow it he knew it was for the best.


    So he slowly laid down and closed his eyes.


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    It was time to sleep. Time to rest.


    However, there was one thing he had forgotten.


    There were still the demons from his past.


    With each breath, his eyelids grew heavier as he slowly fell into a deep sleep.


    Slowly but surely his mind drifted into countless dreams before something happened.


    A couple hours later images started to appear inside his mind.


    He was standing inside a dark forest. The suns were nowhere to be seen, there was no light yet he could still see.


    The first thing he noticed was the smell. The scent of death and decay met his nose as it wrinkled in disgust.


    Jihoon started looking around confused.


    First, he looked at the ground.


    The grass was hanging there on a thin thread of life. It was brow, dark as if it just waiting for its death.


    He then looked at the trees around him. They were in worse shape. No leaves were attached to the branches. Their bark was dark and brown.


    Then he noticed it.


    Everywhere his gaze landed, decay began and death followed.


    Suddenly the air trembled.


    A sharp gust of wind swirled around his feet. Tugging at his clothes throwing his hair into a frenzy and cutting his face.


    He put up his hands to defend his face and closed his eyes.


    The wind grew stronger¨C wild, relentless¡ª until it suddenly stopped.


    He slowly put his hands down and opened his eyes.


    The terrified faces of the bandits appeared as their severed heads lay there in front of him.


    They started to float their hollow eyes looking into his as tears of blood started to leak out of them.


    Their mouths slowly started to move as their whispers echoed inside his head.


    ¡°Why¡­?¡± said one of the bandits as they all cried together. Their cries were sharp and unyielding as they followed him everywhere he went.


    The grass and trees slowly turned to dust as they died and morphed into skulls made out of grass and wood.


    They started crying as Jihoons head started to hurt.


    They surrounded him as their cries continued creating a symphony of grief and cruelty.


    He lay there in a fetal position trembling in fear and guilt.


    He did not want to fight, yet he did


    He did not want to kill them, yet he did.


    He promised himself that the people around him would not die, not for him, not because of him, yet here he was killing for his survival.


    For his benefit.


    And what scared him the most was that he knew he had to kill again.


    Suddenly the world trembled.


    It started to morph as it turned into a whirlwind of death and chaos.


    The faces dissolved into the darkness, reshaping into three blank, gray figures.


    Slowly features began to grow on these bodies.


    One of the bodies turned male.


    Two of the bodies turned female.


    Minutes passed as their hair began to grow.


    Another couple of minutes passed until familiar clothes started to appear on their bodies.


    Jihoons eyes trembled, and his breath quickened as his heart started to beat like war drums.


    Suddenly the features began to grow on their faces.


    Their grey skin turned pink.


    Their hollow eyes gained color and emotions.


    Their blank faces morphed into familiar faces as emotion began to appear on these faces.


    Jihoon broke down again. This time not from guilt but from grief.


    Tears streamed down his face as cried out the names of his family.


    ¡°Mom!¡±


    He sniffed.


    ¡°Dad!¡±


    His body trembled.


    ¡°Big Sister!"


    He yelled as he tried to stand up.


    But it felt like all his strength left him.


    The body of an F Rank Hunter?


    Nowhere to be seen.


    He looked down at his hands. Confused.


    Wondering where his scars were.


    Why did they look so small?


    He looked at his body.


    Jihoon was back to his six-year-old self.


    At the same age, he lost his family.


    He quickly looked back up, ignoring his body, and focusing on their faces.


    They looked down at him smiling as their eyes were filled with love.


    ¡°Jihoon¡­¡±


    Their voices filled with adoration flowed into his ears.


    His parents floated down to him, picking him up and kissing his face.


    Their mouths moved, but he could not hear their voices.


    But he knew they were comforting him.


    The same way they did when he bruised his knee riding his small bike.


    The same way they did when he broke a cup and cut his finger.


    They continued to shower him with affection as he let his tears stream down his face without holding back.


    He felt like a small child again who could rely on his family and cry his heart out.


    Without any worries in his life, he continued crying in the arms of his parents.


    His body was weightless.


    As if no gravity existed.


    Then his sister moved. Her smiling face filled with love looked down on him.


    Her mouth began moving and he heard her voice!


    ¡°Little JiJi,¡± she said, ¡°everything will be alright.¡±


    ¡°There is nothing in this world that you can''t do.¡±


    ¡°Remember you have to be strong. No matter what it takes.¡±


    She continued smiling but her eyes were serious.


    ¡°You have to survive. You did the right thing. Do everything you can to grow stronger. To survive. Even if you have to kill.¡±


    ¡°Remember this world does not allow for weakness. Show no mercy to your enemies or you will be cruel to yourself.¡±


    ¡°If you can''t be weak, be strong. No matter what¡­ remember no matter what¡­¡±


    Just as he was about to answer her.


    Talk to her.


    Talk to his sister.


    Suddenly the world stirred. The world behind his family blurred as a shadowy figure appeared behind them.


    Without any warning, the shadow transformed into a big claw with five sharp and gnarly fingers.


    The shadowy figure raised its claw as a roar echoed through the woods.


    The claw swiped down as Jihoon watched in horror. It felt like time slowed down as it came crashing down.


    His family, their smiling faces.


    Beheaded.


    Their smiles never faded even as their heads continued flying across the air.


    The heads landed in front of him.


    Looking at him.


    Smiling at him.


    Just like in the past.


    Ironic.


    Jihoon broke down again.


    His murders morphed into his loving family as they both called out his name with different emotions.


    His family was executed by monsters the same way he executed the bandits.


    No mercy.


    Just for their gain.


    Combined with the last words of his sister it broke something within him.


    Something that could not be repaired.


    The whole day he tried to run.


    Distract himself.


    But he could not hide.


    He remembered everything. He burned the image into his mind. The dead bandits, his dead family, and that goddamned claw !


    Whoever or whatever you are I will find you!


    His mind seethed with anger and hatred as he started banging his head on the ground. But there was no pain.


    He started yelling, shouting, questioning the world why. But there was no answer.


    Jihoon lay there, on the ground exhausted. His six-year-old body did not have the strength to go on.


    Nor did his mind.


    However, Jihoon realized something.


    People change.


    A loving couple grows apart.


    Family dynamics change.


    And now it was Jihoons time to change.


    He started changing. His body started changing.


    It grew older. He was back to being 12 years old.


    His demons caught up to him.


    The only thing he could do now was confront them.


    The only way to conquer your demons was by running straight at them.


    To fight them.


    He was back to being 18 years old.

 Chapter 6: Growth

    Jihoon woke up screaming. His whole body was covered in sweat. He tried to swallow, but his mouth was as dry as a desert.


    He quickly looked around searching for his family but the only thing he saw was the dark and quiet forest. Three moons were up in the sky, illuminating his surroundings slightly as they shined through the thick leaves of the trees.


    He quickly calmed down. He knew that he was not alone inside the forest. Jihoon stood up and scanned the area, making sure his screams did not attract any unwanted guests.


    His eyes scanned the area while his ears were searching for even the faintest whisper or cracked branch. Luckily it seemed like nothing was attracted to his screams. But he would not let his guard down so easily.


    Jihoon walked towards the small stream of water. He was still alert but thoughts kept interrupting his focus.


    I need to go back to sleep. Tomorrow I should reach the village.


    As terrifying as the nightmare was, he would not let that slow him down. If sleeping meant experiencing a nightmare, then he would confront it.


    He clenched his fist as his eyes burned with determination yet behind the fire there was an ice-cold darkness that slowly seeped in.


    Jihoon remembered the horrified faces of the bandits. He remembered the execution of his family. Their faces. Their smiles, as their heads lay there in front of him. He wanted to yell. Express his frustration.


    But he held it in.


    He clenched his fist, his knuckles whitened as his fingers punctured his palm leaking blood.


    He remembered his sister''s words. He would be strong and not let weakness decide his life. He would pursue strength no matter what.


    Jihoon arrived at the stream of water. He quickly washed his hands and face. Immediately after he cleaned himself up, washing away the blood and sweat from before. He took a couple of big sips before turning back around and walking back to his cave.


    Once he arrived at the cave he quickly checked his surroundings one more time. Before laying back down to sleep.


    His breathing slowed, as his thoughts quietly drifted into darkness.


    There he was again. The odor of death and decay flowed inside his nostrils as he wrinkled them in disgust. He could not get used to the smell. Jihoon stood there as his gaze slowly killed every plant and tree.


    He looked around trying to find the bandits. But not out of guilt.


    I did what I had to do.


    He told himself, but he knew it would take some time for him to completely stop blaming himself. He tried to look for his family but he did not think that they would appear again nor did he want to see them executed again.


    Suddenly bodies materialized from the air. Jihoons face broke into a small smile as he saw the bodies. However, he was also a little terrified of the thought that he would lose his family a third time.


    Nevertheless, his hope was broken again as more bodies started to appear and their faces morphed into ones that he did not want to see. The bandits were back. Their bodies were translucent yet their faces held unimaginable pain. Their hollow eyes looked into his as their mouths cried in agony.


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    Jihoon felt a slight pang of guilt, at the sight of the bandits.


    However, he quickly took a deep breath to calm himself down. He closed his eyes and loosened his fist that he unknowingly clenched the moment he saw them.


    He opened his eyes this time the ice-cold coldness that he buried before rose to the surface. This time it was not a type of determination that was after hard work, but one that was ready for survival.


    But that hunger would not be satisfied with merely surviving. He would thrive in this world. He would be one of the strongest.


    Suddenly a sword materialized from the air and quietly landed in his hand. It was the same he used to kill the bandits before. A long and sharp silver sword with a dark handle and a simplistic yet sleek design.


    Now he would use it again.


    He raised his arm, looked at the ghosts of the bandits unflinchingly, and swung it down. With one swing of his sword, he beheaded every ghost that stood before him. He quickly moved forward swinging his arm again and beheading the last two.


    Their shrieks echoed across the forest, as the decaying began to speed up. After a couple of seconds, everything died. First the ghosts, then the grass, and then the trees.


    As everything died it lay there completely rotten the smell however did not worsen. In fact, it got better. It felt like spring arrived with the smell of beautiful flowers.


    The moment Jihoon noticed the smell everything turned to ash and dust. It slowly disappeared as the wind carried it away. Suddenly the earth started to shake and the seeds of flowers and saplings started to sprout from the ground.


    Jihoon could barely stand as his body swung left and right by the earth''s trembling. Green lush grass grew from the ground. The flowers started to bloom as new colors greeted the world. Thick trees that stood like skyscrapers with leaves as thick as one''s hand grew from the saplings.


    Suddenly the night turned to daylight as the suns shined brightly upon the ground creating an angelic scene.


    Jihoon was captivated by the scene. He wondered how the thing that brought him unimaginable pain last time brought him peace this time. As he walked around the forest, plucking flowers and sniffing them an angelic yet familiar voice sounded in the distance.


    He remembered the melody that was sung right now. He quickly sped up and ran at full speed towards the sound of the melody. He ignored new flowers he had never seen as he quickly maneuvered around the trees.


    Jihoon quickly arrived in front of an altar. There he saw a female back with white wings attached to her back. Her long beautiful black hair flowed down her back as she played with a flower. She was wearing a beautiful white gown as she sat on the back of a kneeling bandit.


    Jihoon however did not notice it as he stared at his sister''s face.


    ¡°Hyeon!¡± He cried out as his sister slowly turned around. ¡°Hyeon! Can you hear me?!¡±


    His sister however only smiled and did not answer him. It was at that moment that Jihoon noticed the kneeling bandit.


    He quickly looked around and saw each bandit being held captive. Their hands were held above their heads by chains and their feet were barely touching the floor. Their faces showed exhaustion as their eyes looked into his he did not see the hatred from before nor any type of will to fight.


    He only saw a plea. A request.


    A request to end it all. To end the pain. They did not want to fight, they did not even want to live, they just wanted to go.


    Peacefully.


    Jihoon felt not only guilty but also bad. His breath quickened and his heartbeat accelerated but he did not waver.


    He would not let weakness penetrate his mind.


    ¡°Good, ¡° His sister''s angelic voice said as she smiled upon him.


    Just as he was about to answer her, her face turned serious and she continued.


    ¡°You are mind is not as weak as before. Remember you are a Kang.¡±


    Her smile returned but instead of a loving one, it signified pride.


    The pride of a big sister.


    ¡°Remember, mercy towards an enemy is cruelty towards oneself.¡±


    The petals of the flower in her hand suddenly fell apart and dropped to the ground. However just as the petals were about to touch the ground she lifted her hand and they started to float.


    She looked back at him and said.


    ¡°Listen and watch.¡±


    Suddenly she began to change. Her white wings slowly turned black. Her white gown turned into darkness. At the same time, her black hair turned completely white.


    ¡°No matter how deep the darkness grows, never let it consume you entirely. You hold the power to choose who sees your shadows and who basks in your light...¡±


    The flowers slowly started to flow towards the bandits.


    They stared in anticipation, tears began to stream down their faces, and traces of small smiles hovered on their faces as they whispered thank you, they knew their time had come.


    It was time to go peacefully.


    The moment the petals touched them they disintegrated and turned to dust and the wind carried them towards the suns.


    Jihoon stood there still captivated by everything that had been happening. He was confused but he quickly looked back towards his sister but she was nowhere to be seen.


    The only thing that lingered was her voice.


    ¡°I am proud of you JiJi.¡±


    He looked around but could not find anything and slowly the world began to fade as he began waking up.


    Slowly his eyes fluttered open. This time he did not wake up screaming and sweating but peacefully as if he had a good night''s sleep.


    The nightmare, no the dream was over. Instead of being terrified and weak he grew stronger. He had been reborn just like the world in his dream had. He changed. He accepted the darkness not only within himself but also around the world.


    However, he would not let it dictate his life. He would not be consumed. He would decide when, where, and to whom he would show it.


    I did it...


    He thought peacefully.


    He had conquered his demons, by confronting them.


    A small smile tugged across his lips. This time it was not there to distract himself from the pain he hid in his heart but a genuine smile.


    He accepted his weaknesses. He accepted his strengths.


    But more importantly, he accepted himself and everything that came with it.


    This was a type of peacefullnes nobody could take from him nor would it be shaken by outside events.

 Chapter 7: Hunting

    Jihoon''s introspection ended after a couple of minutes. His smile, however, did not leave his face. He quickly went outside to check whether the sun had risen, but the night was as young as before.


    Looks like I can get another couple of hours of sleep.


    Jihoon thought as he moved back to his sleeping spot.


    His eyelids once again fluttered away as they grew heavier with each deep breath he took. Once his heartbeat slowed down he arrived in his little dream.


    This time, instead of a dying world he arrived in a lush forest, surrounded by flowers of every kind and trees that topped skyscrapers. He looked around wondering why he was back again.


    Is sister back?


    He slowly walked around the forest but he did not hurry. There was no need to, if she was here she would find him, if not he could get to enjoy a little nature.


    Suddenly the bodies of the bandits materialized in front of him. This time however they were translucent, their eyes gained sentience again. Finally they also showed a different emotion other than hatred and pain.


    Their cries did not hurt his ears but they were unpleasant as his frown deepened slowly. He imagined a sword appearing from thin air and to his surprise, it materialized. He looked at it and noticed that it was still the same silver sword he was using.


    Jihoon raised his sword and quickly swung it multiple times beheading all bandits with a small tug across his lips. He looked around anticipating the world changing again. But nothing happened.


    So Jihoon spent the next couple of hours exploring the never-ending forest as he enjoyed walking across nature. Slowly darkness creeped up across the world and his eyes closed.


    Rays of sunshine swept into the opening of the cave as his eyes slowly fluttered open. Jihoon woke up as the smell of fresh air met his nostrils. It reminded him of the smell inside his dream.


    Am I still there?


    His groggy mind had to double-check whether he was still in the dream or not. It took him a couple of seconds to register everything as he slowly stood up. His body felt light as he slowly stretched his muscles.


    A big yawn resounded through the cave as he gathered himself. Jihoon woke up peacefully. There were no signs of yesterday''s escapade, his smile was light.


    Peaceful.


    His eyes shone with deep pride that contained a certain darkness.


    I will train the Ironblood Breath technique but I don''t think it will help me much. I should probably find better Martial Arts first.


    He wondered just as his stomach rumbled.


    Looks like I also need to hunt. That''s perfect. I will try my new Martial Art!


    With this Jihoon took out the Ironblood Breath technique and started following the movements. He quickly mastered the first three in a couple of minutes since he already trained them yesterday.


    Then for the next couple of hours, he kept his mind focused on the technique. He mastered movement after movement. He got each breathing rhythm right without fail. Each transition was mastered to perfection.


    After all, Jihoon was a firm believer that the transition between techniques and strikes is as important, if not more important than mastering the move itself.


    After a couple of hours, he finished and stood there examining his body. His body was covered in sweat one more time. It brimmed with power as he seemed leaner and stronger as before.


    He had mastered the technique up to the tenth movement leaving only two to master. However, there was a slight problem. Looks can be deceiving.


    My power barely grew.


    Even after mastering more than three-fourths of the technique his body only grew stronger by another half percent.


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    However it made sense after all his body was already at the level of an Innate Grandmaster, maybe he would be even stronger using Mana. Yet here he was training in Third Grade Martial Techniques.


    The only reason why his body even got stronger is because of his body''s immaturity. After all, he was only 18 years old. No matter how many times he swung his sword his body would not reach its full potential and there were bound to be injuries, especially for someone who had no money for elixirs or potions.


    Jihoon theorized that nothing under the Innate realm technique would help him to increase his raw power. At least not to the extent that he would notice it strongly. And even then these techniques would only help him, and not change his power completely. After all, he had already the body of an Innate Grandmaster.


    The only reason Martial Arts helped him now is because of his previous injuries and it minimally strengthened his previous weak spots like endurance.


    This was also only considering breathing techniques. His fighting techniques should help him through the whole F-Rank, but he would need to test it.


    So Jihoon packed his things. His F-Rank sword on which he spent all his money. His bag which he took from the bandits and his techniques.


    Walking outside he quickly tested the Iron Wind Draw to make sure it worked and made his way across the forest in search of animals and monsters.


    He walked around for about half an hour before noticing a tiger in the distance.


    Jihoon slowly walked up to it making sure does not make any noises. After reaching a distance of 50 meters he stopped and crouched. He was in a new world after all. So he had to make sure that that tiger was not suddenly a cultivator or something.


    Jihoon observed him for another half an hour trying to figure out if the tiger was special or somehow had abnormal strength but after seeing it hunt normally he concluded that it just was a normal tiger and not an awakened one.


    He tried using his Mana to figure out its strength and rank however that did nothing.


    So at least no Mana...


    If he was back on his planet there would be two conclusions. Either the tiger does not have Mana, it is just a normal animal or it was so strong that he could not sense its level.


    However, Jihoon still had to be careful after all, could not know whether the tiger had Qi or something. Also, a tiger, even an unawakened one could mean trouble for him. After all, every being gets strengthened by Mana, even if it is passively. Maybe the same thing was true for Qi


    However, he would take the bet, that it was a normal one. From his observation, the tiger should be as strong as the group of bandits, probably even stronger.


    Once he was sure of his decision he started walking towards the tiger parallel to it. He was not actively looking at it but he could see it from his peripheral vision.


    He did not only want to eat but also test his strength, so it would not make sense to ambush the animal. He also did not want to make it wary of him so he acted oblivious.


    After all the tiger should see him as prey. Otherwise, it would not attack him. Tigers are hunters and not animals that fight for the sake of fighting.


    He walked for a couple of meters not hiding anything before the tiger noticed him. It quickly hid itself in the vast forest yet Jihoon could see it from the corner of his eye.


    He continued walking as the tiger slowly shuffled through the forest, closing in on Jihoon. Once they were side by side, with the tiger being only a couple of meters away it suddenly lunged its huger body forward, trying to bite off Jihoons neck.


    He was however prepared, he quickly sidestepped and created some distance between them.


    Faster than the bandits! So around First rate? But its strength should be superior.


    Without any hesitation, the tiger launched another attack. This time, however, the tiger used its claw instead of trying to bite him.


    Jihoon raised his sword and deflected the claw making his arm tremble.


    Strong! It should have the strength of a Low-F Rank monster! However, without Mana it is not a threat. So it should be as strong as an Innate Grandmaster? Or could a First-rate Martial Artist defeat it with Martial Arts?


    The tiger, now a little confused, looked at Jihoon more intensely. It could not understand how such a tiny creature could block its claws that killed creatures twice the size of Jihoon.


    It was debating whether the hunt would be worth it but before it could decide Jihoon launched an attack. His sword stabbed towards the paw of the cat as his body brimmed with power.


    He knew he could instantly defeat the tiger with Mana or Martial Arts however the tiger was not here to fight but to hunt. So the moment it sensed that he was not worth it or even dangerous it would flee.


    It would be at that moment wherehe would use Martial Arts.


    The tiger was able to dodge the stab but for the next couple of seconds, Jihoon continued slashing and stabbing the tiger''s body as its body slowly began to be riddled with wounds.


    Sensing that it was in danger the tiger decided to flee. It just wanted to eat and hunt and not fight to death.


    However, Jihoon had another idea. The moment the tiger turned around to flee, Jihoon sheathed his sword and activated his Mana technique, his Mana stirred flowing towards the stars inside his legs as he shot forward.


    He did not need Mana to catch up to the tiger but he would not needlessly waste his time. The moment he reached the tiger''s side he gripped his sword. His blood boiled as his muscles contracted in a special way. Blood filled them to the brim as they trembled with power.


    Iron Wind Draw!


    Jihoon called out in his mind before his sword whispered through the air. It was just a little bit faster than usual but the power behind his sword draw was extraordinary.


    The sword flew through the air and met the tiger''s head. The moment Jihoon hit the tiger''s head it widened its eyes in confusion before its head exploded into a thousand pieces.


    Jihoon smiled with satisfaction at the brutal sight of his new Martial Art, indifferent to the tiger¡¯s demise.


    Suddenly, a sharp pain stabbed through his skull.


    It was quick¡ªbarely a split second¡ªbut enough to make his vision blur.


    What was that?

 Chapter 8: Village!

    Jihoon looked around. His stance was ready for any attack. His eyes scanned the area, thinking he got hit by a mental attack. Time went by, but nothing happened.


    Are they that cautious?


    His frown deepened. He lowered his guard. Slightly. Trying to bait the attacker in but nothing happened. He continued this process a couple of times but still. Nothing happened.


    Jihoon then decided to skin the tiger with his guard up. However even after 15 minutes of skinning nothing happened so he relaxed. His mind was getting exhausted.


    What was that? Did I interpret it wrong?


    He wondered. Jihoon had never felt something like that nor did he have much knowledge about mental attacks.


    He promised himself to learn more about them once he got home and got access to the internet again. After all, even if it was not one he could at least exclude mental attacks and focus his mind on other things.


    Jihoon continued skinning the tiger but his mind kept wandering, wondering what that feeling was.


    Then it hit him!


    I felt something like that already!


    His eyes shone with realization as his body automatically stopped skinning.


    The first time he felt something like this was when he killed the bandits. He remembered that sharp tug in his mind. In that moment he ignored it. Thinking it was simply his head hurting from guilt and grief.


    However there were other times when he felt the same tug at his mind!


    It was every time he fell asleep and entered his dream. In the beginning, he did not associate these three events with one another since entering the dream felt a lot more gentle. But he realized that they all felt really similar.


    Jihoon was still confused. After all, he thought the dream was just a manifestation of his subconscious rather than a space he could enter. His face hardened at the realization that the space might be real.


    Could I have died there?


    He thought worrisome. It was one thing risking one''s life with them knowing what they were doing. But to only realize it later? That''s a completely different ballpark.


    Suddenly the face of his sister reappeared in his mind.


    Right! How did I not think about this?? If this place is real, and she could talk to me...does that mean she is alive? Or is it just her conscience, or maybe it was my subconscious trying to guide me on the right path???


    Arghhh... so many fucking questions!


    Jihoon wanted to scream, at first he was just wondering what it was. Now he wanted answers. Fast! Nevertheless he took a deep breath to calm himself down.


    He knew he needed to be calm.


    Angry is for the weak...right sister?


    He smiled. Remembering the words his sister said to him after teasing him. Whatever it was he would figure it out. He was sure of that.


    Maybe I will enter my Dreamspace again today once I fall asleep. Or can I enter it consciously?


    His eyes shone with excitement, maybe he would meet his sister. His family again? However, even if that was not the case. He knew that he would use it to grow. For whatever purpose he has that ability he would use it.


    Does it want to destroy me mentally? Good! I will use it to test myself. Does it want to help me? Great! I will use it to its full ability.


    His eyes shone with determination as he made up his mind. Jihoon decided to name his dream, Dreamspace. It was a dream, a space he could enter. Dreamspace. Pretty simple. Right?


    Later he would try to enter the space consciously but only after he got a place to stay in the village. A couple of minutes later finished skinning the animal and took both of its front paws to eat later.


    He quickly left the rest of the corpse and looked around. Wondering why no animal came to bother him after smelling the blood. However, in the distance, he could see a big group of wolves staring at him cautiously. Some of their wounds looked fresh.


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    Looks like they hold off any other animal that could come close. They are smart. They knew I would not take everything nor would fighting me do them any good so they just waited.


    This was also advantageous for Jihoon since he did not know if he could defeat all 50 wolves. Especially in combination with the largest one that looked like it could fight the tiger alone.


    Since he could go peacefully and he already had everything he needed he quickly left the area.


    Animals this smart¡­ I do not even want to know how an awakened beast would act, or well a Qi beast.


    Jihoon looked back and wondered cautiosly however, while his mind was slightly afraid his body was told a different story. An excited grin formed on his face.


    On his way back towards where the road was, Jihoon gathered enough firewood and small stones to help with digging a hole. After seeing the road again he stopped a couple hundred meters away. This was the place where he would cook his meat.


    Since there was a road there it meant that animals should not be a big problem as they either were afraid of humans or just did not see them as prey.


    However, he did not sit completely by the side of the road since he did not know how often humans would cross it nor did he want a run down with bandits again.


    Jihoon took everything from his bag and dug two holes using the stone¡ªone for the fire, the other for air¡ªconnecting them with a narrow tunnel to hide the flame and smoke.


    He put the wood inside the hole including a little tree bark he shaved off with his sword. He quickly used his flint and steel to create a fire.


    He sliced the meat into tinier pieces and set it to cook there


    Jihoon then pissed around the area to deter small predators while the meat cooked and then continued training his breathing technique finally mastering it after an hour and a half.


    He quickly ate both legs before making his way towards the road again.


    A couple of minutes later he reached the dirt road and looked around confused.


    He looked left, then right, and realized that he did not know which way the village was!


    Unfortunately, he also could not see the village from where he was. He stood there a couple of minutes trying to remember if the bandits gave him any information, however they did not.


    Still, he looked towards the left way which went up slowly for at least a couple if not tens of kilometers.


    I will just run towards the left. Once I am at the top I should be able to see the village, if not I went the wrong way.


    Without hesitation, he launched himself towards the top and began running. He first began in a half sprint thinking he should preserve his stamina however he noticed that it was practically too easy.


    In fact ever since he awakened in his apartment he only trained his Mana Techqnuie and swordsmanship before directly going into the F-Rank Goblin Dungeon.


    He did not test his full speed nor his full strength without a sword.


    So Jihoon immediately broke out in a full sprint and ten minutes later he reached the top. In just ten minutes, he ran a distance that would normally take him walking at least an hour or two.


    His face broke out into a big smile, his fist clenched as he tried to keep him from yelling in excitement.


    This was monumental for him, he finally realized how far he had come. He still remembered the times where even after training relentlessly his body could not keep up with his peers.


    His swordsmanship was at the top of the school, yet his ranking was barely above average. His body just could not keep up with the others.


    In fact, his swordsmanship was the only reason why he got a scholarship for the school.


    At the same time the students that were at the top of the school would come and ask him for advice in sword fighting. Thinking he stood a chance against them he challenged them every time they came and every time he was defeated in less than five moves.


    This was the difference between people with talent and resources versus somebody who only worked hard. The same way he was light-years ahead of them in swordsmanship, they were leagues beyond him in physique.


    The difference started to become even starker as everybody around him began awakening while was still stuck with his body. At this point, it has already been months since the first person awakened with the top already thinking about their breakthrough to E-Rank.


    Yet only he, his good friend Amy, and a couple of others have been stuck in their weak bodies unable to awaken.


    He and Amy worked the hardest, they were the most talented in their respected field yet that meant nothing.


    In fact, if he had not awakened a couple of days ago he would have gone out and tried to awaken by killing a monster.


    This was also why he wanted to solo the dungeon. Not only have the others done so before but he also wanted to catch up as fast as possible. And he knew that Amy would be the same. After all, while they had different circumstances they both had their reasons.


    So now seeing the progress he made in only a couple of days he was proud. He not only defeated his mental demons which would pay dividends across his whole journey he also grew stronger in a more tangible way.


    After being lost in his thoughts and accomplishments he quickly looked down upon the village in the distance where the forest stopped.


    It stood there surrounded by grassland, with a river flowing by its side. In the distance he could see the road continuing, and a lot of forests surrounding the grassland.


    Jihoon then again broke out into a full sprint but after half an hour he noticed that he started to get really tired so he slowed down a little.


    He then left the forest he was in and it was at that moment he realized truly how large the mountain range was.


    It spans across his whole field of vision with different sections spanning across it. He was lucky that he got teleported inside a peaceful forest and not to the tip of a freezing mountain or a rocky region without any roads.


    Was that a coincidence?


    He wondered but decided not to dwell on it. The deed is done.


    A couple of hours later he was only a couple of kilometers away from the village. He noticed how big the village actually was. From the amount of houses he saw in the distance, there were at least a couple of villagers.


    What surprised him was that the houses did not look that much different from the way he learned in the history books. The architecture was the same.


    A couple of minutes later he was almost inside the village before a rough and wary voice echoed through his ears.


    ¡°Halt!¡±

 Chapter 9: War or Peace?

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 Chapter 10: Wang Family

    Jihoon didn''t answer for a quick minute and looked at Wang Jie for a couple of seconds. He had that kind of situation often enough to know what to do.


    Wang Jie looked a little embarrassed, seeing Jihoon not answering just as he was about to continue and apologize for asking Jihoon to answer.


    ¡°Well, what kind of help do you need, Brother Jie?¡±


    After walking around for a couple of hours and Wang Jie showing good hospitality Jihoon got comfortable enough to call him by his first name.


    After all, if Wang Jie felt that he could ask, he would. So Jihoon made sure to be a nice and good person.


    ¡°I wanted to ask you to look at my swordsmanship, I know you are a Warrior much superior to myself and even my father, so please help me!¡±


    Wang Jie deeply bowed, as he asked honestly.


    Puhh looks like I had the wrong impression of you Wang Jie.


    Jihoon thought as he felt a little bad for thinking that Wang Jie was trying to take advantage of him. Here he was scheming and planning like his life depended on it. Turns out Wang Jie is just a simple Warrior.


    It seems that you are just a Warrior trying to learn, putting away your pride, and asking honestly without any shame¡­ heh even asking somebody who could be your son!


    He knew that it was easy to get drunk on your own power, especially in a small village like this and in such a high position.


    ¡°I like your humility, Warrior Jie!¡±


    Jihoon said as he changed the way he was addressing him. Looking deeply into Wang Jie''s eyes he grabbed his shoulders forcing him to stand upright.


    ¡°Since you have been honest with me, I will be honest with you! I will help you, however, I need your help too!¡±


    Even though Wang has been honest with Jihoon could not let this chance go.


    Wang Jie now standing upright listened intently as his eyes slightly brightened at the confirmation.


    ¡°I am on my way to become an Innate Grandmaster, as I am currently in search of enlightenment. I try to experience as many Martial Arts no matter their grade!¡±


    ¡°So I would like you to provide me with any Martial Art you could get me!¡±


    Wang Jie was just about to answer but Jihoon put up his hand signaling he was not finished.


    ¡°I also want to meet the most knowledgeable person inside this village. ¡°


    Seeing Jihoon finishing Wang Jie sprang into action and answered enthusiastically.


    ¡°Of course, Warrior Jihoon! I can show you the Martial Arts for the guards, even though it may look like nothing, we have the best hand-to-hand fighters around all villages! Even the hand-to-hand champion across all villages is from our village!¡±


    Wang Jie showed off proudly. He had a big grin on his face which looked stupid for someone his age and status.


    ¡°I can also show you the Wang Family Martial Art, even though we are not a real Martial Family we still have a couple of Martial Arts, especially for the sword!¡±


    He continued enthusiastically.


    ¡°Also the wisest person in the village is my grand uncle and also the village chief! So if you want you could meet him tomorrow morning!


    They continued talking a bit and agreed to meet tomorrow morning and then go to the village hall together where the chief resided. Afterwards Jihoon would be provided with all the Martial Arts Wang Jie could get his hands on, then in the evening they would train and spar together.


    Jihoon paid 70 copper coins for a night in the inn including breakfast. Since he got 95 gold coins and 500 silver coins he simply paid with one silver coin and told the clerk to see it as a tip.


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    In his room, Jihoon lay inside his bed after taking a bath and cleaning his clothes. Inside the room was a simple but comfortable bed, with a desk facing the window and a wardrobe standing on the other side.


    I need to buy new clothes¡­ I should have done that today.


    Jihoon grimaced as he looked at his old clothes.


    It looks like the Wang family has a lot of power inside this village, with every important position being claimed by one of them.


    Looks like I made the right decision by befriending them¡­ huh!


    Suddenly Jihoon remembered the tug at his mind earlier today and instantly sat up to meditate.


    Maybe I can enter my dream again? Or even meet my family...?


    Jihoon started to get excited but quickly held himself back and focused his mind again. There is no need to be rash.


    He mediated and consistently tried to enter his Dreamspace but even after hours nothing happened so he laid down to sleep again.


    I wonder when I will get back home.


    He wondered as he slowly fell asleep.


    The next morning his clothes were already dried so he quickly put them on, ate breakfast, and went outside the inn where Wang Jie was already waiting.


    They greeted each other and made their way towards a big building in the center of the village. It had listings in front of the building, exhibiting job opportunities and local news.


    There was even national news!


    Bandit sightings near Emerald Veil Forest! Proceed with caution! 4. July, 819.


    Jihoon read the local news and wondered.


    Hmm interesting they have the same months but their year is different, i don''t believe that this world only exists or had a concept of time for 800 years. There should be another reason behind it.


    Then his eyes went towards the national news which read.


    Attention Citizens of the Great Ravenstone Kingdom,


    Recruiting Warriors of all grades, please apply to any recruiting office! Checking for cultivation qualification guaranteed!


    First Rate Warrior under 30 applies to the elite corps! Cultivation guaranteed!


    18. May, 819


    Jihoons mind suddenly raced with a thousand thoughts. Looks like he was inside the Ravenstone Kingdom on the Shattered Star continent inside the Azure World.


    At least he now knew where he was, he just needed a map to know more.


    However the cultivation in question was what confused him the most. Cultivation qualification? What''s that? And how can they guarantee that First Rate Warriors learn how to cultivate??


    Is there something about Martial Arts that I am missing? I need more information!


    Jihoon was angry but what frustrated him the most was that he did not know what he did not know!


    However, he did not have time to dwell on things. By now they stood in front of a set of double doors that Wang Jie promptly opened.


    Inside was a dimly lit room with a big round table in the middle. It was surrounded by chairs and in the back, facing them sat an old man.


    He had white hair and a long beard, slightly resembling Wang Wei, Wang Jie''s father.


    ¡°Warrior Jihoon, this is my great uncle Wang Jun and the chief of this humble village. He has the most knowledge among all the villagers since he served in the Ravenstone Army!¡±


    Wang Jie said with reverence and respect before quickly excusing himself and leaving.


    Wang Jun stood up and slightly bowed.


    ¡°Warrior Jihoon, I welcome you again to the Iron Hand Village. I heard you were a wandering Warrior in search of enlightenment so I won''t ask about your origins.¡±


    Jihoon returned the bow as he continued listening.


    ¡°I heard you came here to seek knowledge in addition to your Martial Arts journey. Ah how I wish that my grand-nephew would also seek some knowledge instead of only thinking about Martial Arts.¡±


    Wang Jun said with slight respect before his tone turned annoyed as he mentioned Wang Jie.


    ¡°I am sure he already asked you to spar with him or something similar. If that is the case I can make sure he apologizes and does not bother you.¡±


    Wang Jun continued rambling about his grand nephew before Jihoon had to interrupt and steer the conversation in the direction that he wanted.


    He slightly laughed and said,


    ¡°There is no need for that village chief. We already came to an agreement.¡±


    ¡°However there is something I would like to ask. You know I not only came here to seek Martial Arts but to seek knowledge about History among other things and was wondering if you had some exclusive documents I could read?¡±


    ¡°Hmm, unfortunately we don''t have any, the only thing about history we have here are the books for the students inside the school.¡±


    Jihoon outwardly showed a disappointed expression but inside he was gleaming.


    I will ask Jie about the school and then steal a history book!


    ¡°If that''s the case there is no need to continue talking about history. How about Innate Grandmasters?¡±


    They continued talking for about an hour before Jihoon left and met with Wang Jie inside the guard''s barracks.


    ****


    Inside the village hall, an old man was laughing and talking to himself.


    ¡°What a little liar¡­¡±


    He smirked as he continued staring outside his window.


    "Telling me he is in search of enlightenment, what kind of bullshit is that? What kind of 18-year-old First Rate Warrior would need that kind of thing?? It was practically guaranteed that he would turn into an Innate Grandmaster before the age of 30!¡±


    He shook his head as he touched his trembling hand and looked at the stump that was there instead of his left foot.


    ¡°Heh¡­ and what is even worse is him lying about being a First Rate Martial Artist in the first place¡­¡±


    That feeling when he entered the room¡­ it made my gut churn and I almost activated my Qi instinctively. I don''t even want to know what would have happened to me if I attacked.


    He calmed his trembling hand down.


    Looks like he is a very strong Grandmaster¡­

 Chapter 11: New Martial Arts

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