Mai was the first to rush onto the stage, her steps hurried, heart pounding.
Yun Che descended slowly, golden aura still flaring around him like a living flame, causing tiny pebbles to levitate and cracks to spread across the already-battered arena floor.
"Don't worry," he said calmly as he gently lowered Yuanba into her arms. "He's just passed out."
Mai caught Yuanba and sighed in relief, though her brows pinched in frustration. "That punch could've seriously hurt him, you know…"
"I did go easy. Like I promised." Yun Che shrugged, his expression light.
"Sigh… this guy," she muttered, brushing Yuanba's hair from his face. Her annoyance shifted quickly, however, as she eyes Yun Che. "Also—mind turning that aura off? It's like standing in a wind tunnel over here."
Yun Che laughed sheepishly. "Right, sorry abou—"
Before he could finish, Yuanba stirred.
"Yuanba!" Mai gasped, leaning closer.
He blinked groggily, then smiled the moment he saw her face. "Mai…?" He chuckled weakly. "Haha… looks like I lost, huh?"
"You don't have to worry about that," she said softly—then immediately smacked his back head. "But I told you not to get hurt!"
"Ow—ow! Okay, okay!" he winced, rubbing the spot.
Yun Che chuckled from the side, watching their exchange. But behind his smile, concern flickered. He and Yuanba had shown too much. Their power was no longer just a spectacle—it was a declaration. And that meant anyone looking to hurt them might not go after Yuanba… but someone far more vulnerable.
He glanced at Mai.
"Brother… I mean—Aniki!" Yuanba called out, fists clenching with fresh determination. "I promise! I'll get stronger and beat you one day!"
"Keep dreaming, boy." Yun Che smirked, stepping closer. He reached out to slap Yuanba's shoulder in friendly jest—
WHAM!
He forgot. He was still in Super Saiyan form.
The slap hit like a cannon. Yuanba was launched across the arena, smashing into the far wall with a crack that echoed like thunder.
The entire arena gasped in horror.
Mai froze. "Yuanba—!?"
Even Yun Che blinked, awkwardly lowering his hand. "…whoops."
A stunned silence fell across the arena.
Then from the cratered wall, Yuanba's voice groaned faintly, "I'm okay… I think…"
"Yuanba!" Mai shouted as she rushed across the cracked arena. She glared sharply at Yun Che, hands on her hips. "What in the world are you doing?! You sent him flying like a ragdoll!"
"Yabe (That's bad)!" Yun Che winced in Japanese, realizing his mistake. He flew toward Yuanba, who was now awkwardly upside down, embedded half into the arena wall. "You alright over there? Guess I don't even know my own strength."
Yuanba groaned but managed a grin. "I'm fine… just a little dizzy…"
Mai helped pull him out of the wall, blinking in surprise at how quickly he recovered. "You're… tougher than I thought."
"Told you," Yuanba grinned proudly.
"See? He's fine." Yun Che exhaled, brushing the back of his neck. "Still, my bad."
He closed his eyes, and with a quiet whoosh, his blazing golden aura dissipated. His hair slowly reverted from gold back to its usual black color, shrinking in length as the transformation faded completely and regained his former Yun Che look.
He muttered to himself, Until I unlock the mastered form, I should really avoid using Super Saiyan in confined spaces.
Truth be told, the path ahead for this so-called "Heretic Soul Evolution" had some frustrating detours. Once he hit the one-minute full-power mark in battle, his energy began draining fast—forcing him to constantly recharge just to maintain the form.
As he read the unlocks available from the system, hitting the 40-minute mark would unlock Super Saiyan Grade 2, boosting his strength sixfold. But it came at a cost—greater power and defense in terms of muscles, sure, but a noticeable loss in speed. It made him feel like a walking tank with lead boots.
At 80 minutes, he'd unlock Super Saiyan Grade 3. A sevenfold power boost… but speed dropped even further. Basically a heavy-hitter slugfest form—useless for someone who preferred flexibility and movement.
What he really aimed for was Super Saiyan Grade 4—the Full-Powered, Mastered and Perfected Super Saiyan. That one was different and achieved in the 120 minute mark. It offered balance—eightfold enhancements to strength, speed, intelligence, and defense. It wasn't just power—it was the ultimate stability. Grand Perfection of the Super Saiyan form.
But to reach it… I'll need to master this form first, he thought. Only then can I evolve Burning Heart—and push past this ceiling.
========================
Everyone was stunned—again.
It wasn't just that Yun Che, a Peak True Profound Realm cultivator, had defeated someone at the Mid Spirit Profound Realm like in the beginning of the tournament. That was already shocking. But it was how they fought that left everyone speechless.
Two golden warriors clashing in a battle that shattered expectations and defied cultivation norms. Their collision had transcended simple strength—it had become a spectacle. A fight of legends. Even Ling Yun and Ling Jie, once considered among the tournament's brightest stars, paled in comparison to what they'd just witnessed.
Eyes from every corner of the arena followed Yun Che as he calmly descended with Yuanba and Mai. Even as he walked beside them, his presence felt… weightier. The dust hadn't even settled, and yet it felt like the entire arena still reverberated with their clash.
Waiting at the edge of the staging area was Qin Wushang, who quickly approached them. His usually composed demeanor cracked with emotion as he looked at Yuanba.
Yuanba chuckled sheepishly. "Master, I guess I lost to him in the end…"
He rubbed the back of his head, tired but proud. Deep inside, he'd thought the Super Saiyan transformation might be enough. But the moment Yun Che ignited his own golden form, Yuanba knew—the outcome had been sealed from that very instant.
Qin Wushang placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "It doesn't matter," he said with quiet conviction. "Even if you conceded tomorrow, it wouldn't change anything. The top four out of over 1,500 sects—Xia Yuanba, you've done more than enough. You've brought honor to our palace. We're proud of you."
Then, in a gesture no one expected, Qin Wushang bowed his head slightly.
Yuanba's eyes widened, overwhelmed by the respect being shown. "Master…"
"As am I," said a calm, aged voice behind them.
They turned to see an old man approaching with dignified steps. Dressed in majestic robes embroidered with ancient motifs, his presence commanded reverence—he was the Grand Palace Master. The one who protected the Emperor as his Imperial Protector. With Xue Ling now a Profound Emperor, he felt that his services are no longer needed. However, he still protected the emperor from the shadows.
"Grandmaster Dongfang Xiu!" Mai quickly bowed, and Yuanba followed immediately, startled by the old man's arrival.
Dongfang Xiu smiled as he looked Yuanba over. "I remember when I first saw you, a quiet young man hidden in Yun Che's shadow. But now? You stood tall on that stage… You brought glory, not just to our palace—but to the entire empire."
He placed a hand behind his back and studied the boy he once thought too soft-hearted for greatness.
"To think," he said slowly, "that the boy I once dismissed as awkward and unrefined… would become one of the four strongest in the entire Blue Wind Empire. The same boy came with Yun Che and Princess Cang Yue to heal me now stands here, battle-worn but victorious in spirit."
Yuanba lowered his gaze, humbled. "I… I just wanted to fight beside them."
"And you did," the grandmaster said with a faint smile. "And I suspect you'll do it again. Higher. Farther. Stronger."
Mai's eyes softened as she looked at Yuanba. The brute she once called reckless had grown before her very eyes.
Yun Che said nothing for a moment, quietly watching the recognition his brother-in-law was receiving. Then, he placed a hand on Yuanba's shoulder again.
"You heard him," Yun Che said with a grin.
"This must be your mortal wife?" Grandmaster Dongfang Xiu turned his eyes toward Mai, his tone curious but calm.
"W-Wife?!" Mai's cheeks flushed a deep red. "No… I-I'm not his wife. Not yet!"
"Yet, hmm?" Dongfang Xiu raised an eyebrow, lips curling into a knowing smile.
"Uuuu…" Mai looked away, her face almost glowing with embarrassment.
"I must say," the grandmaster continued, "of all the renowned beauties gathered here, not one has stirred your heart. And yet, a simple mortal woman has done what none of them could." He looked at Yuanba with quiet amusement.
Yuanba scratched his head, cheeks pink. "I've gotten used to my sister's beauty allure, Grandmaster. I guess that's why I prefer someone genuine. Someone normal."
Dongfang Xiu gave a small nod. "A rare answer. And one that speaks volumes of your heart. You've already won in my eyes, Yuanba. Victory or defeat matters little now. Whatever you desire, any wish within my reach… it shall be granted."
Yuanba's expression lit up. "Then… could I ask for Mai to be admitted into the Blue Wind Profound Palace?" he asked, turning to both Dongfang Xiu and Qin Wushang. "That way, I can watch over her while I train."
Qin Wushang smiled and nodded. "We could even place her as an—"
"Wait," Mai suddenly raised her hand, stopping the discussion mid-sentence.
The three men turned to her in surprise.
"Grandmasters… Yuanba… I'm grateful. Truly," she said softly, folding her hands before her. "But I've already made my choice."
"Mai…?" Yuanba's voice wavered slightly. She had never told him about this.
She smiled gently, her gaze warm yet resolute. "Yuanba, you're the rising jewel of the palace. I know how hard you've worked and how much you've grown. And even though you always make time for me… I don't want to become the reason that holds you back."
"But I can protect you—always," Yuanba insisted.
"I know," she nodded. "I've seen you protect Mei. I've seen you protect me. But that's exactly why… I can't lean on you forever." Her voice tightened. "If I'd been stronger, that night… they wouldn't have been able to take us. I don't want to be a burden. I want to stand for myself."
Yuanba clenched his fists.
Mai stepped closer, placing a hand over his. "Besides, your master already told me you're… well, a bit lazy." She smiled playfully. "If I stay around, you'll be distracted every time I smile at you."
Yuanba gave a sheepish laugh, his eyes softening. "I guess I really am like that."
Dongfang Xiu chuckled. "You have a fine woman beside you, Yuanba. One with both strength and wisdom of heart."
Mai looked at him and bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Grandmaster."
Qin Wushang added warmly, "If ever you do change your mind, Miss Mai, know that the gates of our palace are open to you."
"If you do that, I can formally show you into the Blue Wind Profound Palace," Yuanba said excitedly. "Or… you could join my big sister in Frozen Cloud Asgard! It's an all-women's sect, and their cultivation methods are super strong."
Mai's expression grew thoughtful.
She had heard of Frozen Cloud Asgard—where women cast aside love and attachment in pursuit of cultivation. Where even the famed fairies like Chu Yuechan had chosen solitude over companionship. She couldn't do that. She couldn't give up Yuanba… or Mei. Not for power. Not for anything.
She shook her head gently. "Thank you, Yuanba… but I don't want to become someone who has to shut out her feelings just to grow stronger. I'm not willing to forget you… or Mei. I won't throw that away."
Yuanba blinked, caught off guard by the quiet intensity in her voice.
"I'd like to follow Princess Cang Yue instead," Mai continued. "Her faction is made up of women as well, and we'll be safe there. It's the kind of place where I can grow stronger… without losing who I am. Yun Che here has offered first to join that faction."
Yuanba's shoulders slumped a little, but there was no disappointment in his eyes. Only admiration.
Mai smiled faintly. "I know you'll be busy with training, and that's fine. You're someone who puts your heart into everything you do, especially with me. But I can't keep depending on that. I want to be someone worthy of you. Someone who can stand beside you, not behind you."
She paused, then added with a touch of self-awareness, "Like this Yun Che will soon have multiple wives… but I'm not built like that. I can't share the person I love. Maybe that's selfish… or possessive. But it's how I feel."
"Love?" Yuanba blushed.
"Took you long enough, blockhead!" Mai pouted staking her claim on him before other women shows up.
Yuanba stood quietly, processing her words. Then he nodded slowly, his usual boyish grin replaced by something more mature. "I understand, Mai. I'll get stronger—strong enough to protect you… and strong enough to stand by your side, too."
Qin Wushang, who had been quietly observing, stepped forward with a calm nod. "Miss Mai is right. There are times when a person must rely on themselves first. But once you've both walked that path… then you'll truly be able to lean on one another. Yuanba, be diligent. Let this be your motivation."
"I will, Master," Yuanba said, eyes gleaming with newfound resolve.
"And as for you, Miss Mai," Qin Wushang turned to her, "you've already proven you have the heart of a cultivator. If you wish to join Princess Cang Yue's faction, I will see to it personally. It is a secret faction for women, and I heard there are countless of beautiful geniuses in there. An opposite of the Frozen Cloud Asgard."
Mai bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Palace Master."
"I'll come visit every day," Yuanba promised, eyes soft as he looked at Mai. Clearly, being near her mattered more to him than anything else.
Mai chuckled and gently patted his arm. "Don't worry, silly. Lady Xue Ling said they allow visitations from family members in designated areas—even though men aren't allowed inside the main compound." She narrowed her eyes playfully. "Well, except for Yun Che, apparently. Pfft… promise me you won't sneak in."
"Eh? How come Aniki gets to enter?" Yuanba asked, blinking in confusion.
Yun Che let out a long sigh. "Dude, I saved them. Gave them a new life, a new home. Of course they trust me enough to come and go."
"Sigh…. I bet they trust you too much," Mai muttered before grabbing Yuanba's ear with a sharp glare. "And you! Did you see how many girls were eyeing you after your transformation? You think I didn't notice?"
"Ow ow ow! I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Yuanba winced, both hands raised in surrender.
Yun Che pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. "These two…"
Qin Wushang and Grandmaster Dongfang Xiu exchanged knowing glances and sighed as well.
"Even in front of two of the most respected elders in the empire," Dongfang Xiu muttered, "they still only have eyes for each other."
"It's refreshing, in a way," Qin Wushang added with a faint smile. "Young love, full of spirit."
The elders eventually stepped forward, their tones returning to formal warmth. "Now, treat your wounds and focus on your recovery," Dongfang Xiu said. "We'll discuss your rewards once you've returned to the palace."
"You've already given us more than enough by placing fourth," Qin Wushang added proudly. "For the first time in history, Blue Wind Profound Palace has reached the top four in the ranking tournament. Thanks to you."
Yuanba bowed deeply, the pride of his achievement written across his tired but happy face.
Mai stood by his side, her hand never leaving his.
Yuanba and Mai returned to the Blue Wind Imperial Family's seating zone, Mai leaning slightly into Yuanba's side, tired but happy. Yun Che followed behind at a relaxed pace, his golden aura finally subdued, his usual confident grin returning. As he walked up the steps, his eyes met Xia Qingyue's—watching him from afar like a moonlit statue carved from ice and grace.
He grinned knowingly at her.
She didn't smile back.
Instead, her gaze narrowed slightly, thoughtful, calculating… irritated?
Yun Che tilted his head in confusion.
What did I do now?
Xia Qingyue's thoughts raced. So Mai, a mortal with no foundation in cultivation, was now going to start training under Princess Cang Yue's faction—and likely with Yun Che guiding her? At her age? Ridiculous. As Mai's age, the best she can achieve is Peak Nascent Profound Realm by the age of thirty.
But… it was Yun Che.
He helped Yuanba unlock some unnatural transformation and taught him to fight on equal footing with him. According to the information, Princess Cang Yue's faction has countless of geniuses under her. A legion of powerful women that he developed in the third level of the Imperial Palace, and rumors has it that a lot of them achieved Peak Nascent Profound Realm in a span of two weeks. What if left for a few more months?
If he can make that muscle brute Yuanba into a golden warrior, she thought, what could he do for someone with patience and clarity?
She quietly scoffed.
He's helping everyone… guiding Unohana Retsu, Princess Cang Yue, Chu Yuechan, even Mai… yet his own wife—
Her thoughts halted, heart skipping just slightly. A mix of pride, jealousy, and frustration bubbled inside her—a quiet storm she rarely let surface.
He had power, knowledge, techniques… and yet not once did he ever sit down and say: "Qingyue, let me guide you. Let me walk the path with you."
Instead, he pushed her away on their wedding day!
Was it because he saw her as already strong?
Or because he thought she didn't need him?
Suddenly, she stood. Her pale robes fluttered slightly in the breeze, eyes never leaving Yun Che as he approached the Blue Wind Imperial Family seating zone.
She had decided.
Instead of quietly fretting over the final match tomorrow… instead of letting her thoughts stew in silence…
She was going to confront him tomorrow.
He was going to hear everything she had buried—every quiet frustration and question he never asked.
If you're my husband, her heart whispered, then it's time you truly act like one.
"Yun Che," she called, her voice serene but carrying an unmistakable edge.
His full name or is that really his name?
No, he clearly said he wasn't the man I was supposed to marry.
Tomorrow, you will tell me your real name.
==================
"The Grand Finals will resume tomorrow after the Third-Place Match between Unohana Retsu and Xia Yuanba!" Ling Wugou's voice echoed through the arena, marking the conclusion of the tournament's penultimate day.
The crowd burst into murmurs of excitement, their hunger for spectacle barely contained. The display given by Unohana Retsu, Xia Qingyue, Xia Yuanba and Yun Che had been the best battles of the century. None of the previous tournaments could match their hype. Many martial enthusiasts longed to rush the Imperial Family's seating zone, desperate to catch a glimpse—or earn the favor—of the warriors who had dominated the tournament. But they were kept at bay by layers of imperial guards and the profound pressure zone that served as an invisible barricade.
Within the Imperial Family zone, calm reigned—at least for a moment.
A sudden chill down Yun Che's spine as he looked around. Whatever that chill is, it was too intense.
Yun Che had barely stepped in before being tackled by Retsu and Mio.
"Yuu-kun! Please teach us that new energy!" Retsu clung to his arm with sparkling eyes.
"We won't let you go until you agree!" Mio wrapped around his waist, grinning.
"Korra! Whatever you learn, we wanna learn it too!" Kon piped up, arms crossed from atop Nemu's shoulder.
On the side, Cang Yue and Nemu exchanged knowing glances, quietly amused by the familiar chaos.
"They're always like this," Cang Yue said with a sheepish smile, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
"Quite childish for such powerful warriors," Xue Ling remarked, eyeing the scene with a mix of amusement and disapproval.
Jin Mulan frowned slightly. "So, they admire so deeply that they acted like this? And that's how they gain his attention?"
"It seems so," Lin Yueru added, arms folded. "The great Unohana Retsu… acting like a spoiled child. It's like her creepy smile back then is nothing but an illusion."
"Hai," Nemu nodded with mechanical calm. "Nee-sama and Mio-nee-sama are highly disciplined in battle, but when it comes to Yuu-sama, they revert to… this."
"It's strange to witness," Jin Mulan said flatly, still watching as Mio pouted and Retsu tugged on Yun Che's sleeve.
Cang Yue leaned in toward Jin Mulan. "We all have our ways. Yes, sometimes it looks childish. But we obey him not because we must… but because we believe in him. And when we want something from him," she smiled knowingly, "we just know how to ask."
"I see…" Jin Mulan responded, her expression unreadable—but her eyes flicked to Yun Che, then to Retsu and Mio, and finally to Cang Yue. She was observing. Learning.
So that's what gets his attention…
Quietly, she made a mental note. In this circle, power and grace alone weren't enough.
There was something else—a closeness, a trust, an emotional bond that couldn't be formed with aloofness or discipline alone.
Yun Che sighed as he reached up and playfully pinched both Retsu and Mio's cheeks.
"Can I at least explain myself before getting dogpiled?"
"Ow…" Retsu and Mio pouted in unison, cheeks squished beneath his fingers. Their behavior made everyone—including Xue Ling, Jin Mulan, Lin Yueru, Yuanba, Mai, and Mei—glance sideways. Even now, they struggled to believe that Unohana Retsu, the epitome of beauty and violence, acted so childishly in front of him.
With all eyes on him, Yun Che sat down casually. Nemu, ever dutiful, poured him a cup of tea with flawless grace.
"I used a new energy type," he began, raising the cup to his lips. "Ki."
That single word made the eyes of Retsu, Mio, Nemu, and Cang Yue sparkle with curiosity and hunger. Even Jasmine and Kon are interested. If it's something from him, they wanted to learn it as soon as possible.
"Ki?" they echoed in awe.
But Yun Che raised a hand to preempt the inevitable flood of questions.
"Before you bury me in interrogations," he said, smiling wryly, "let's go back to the ark. I'd rather not explain something like this here."
The group began to gather their things. Yuanba, now back in peak condition thanks to a sip of Yun Che's Ancient Wine, stood tall and cheerful, walking beside Mai and Mei. The warm chatter resumed as they made their way toward the Blue Wind Imperial Family Ark.
But just as they were about to pass the southern stairwell lead to the Heavenly Sword Villa Arkport, a sudden chill swept across the path.
From the distance, a group of ethereal figures approached—silent, graceful, and commanding.
The air turned still.
The Frozen Cloud Asgard had arrived.
Seven of the sect's most revered fairies stood together, forming a line of almost otherworldly beauty. Their long, ice-blue robes fluttered softly in the wind, and their serene expressions carried both detachment and silent power.
At their center stood the Asgard Mistress herself—an embodiment of cold elegance and peerless composure.
And beside her…
Xia Qingyue.
Clad in white, her amethyst eyes met Yun Che's. Her expression was unreadable, but a storm brewed beneath her calm gaze.
Time seemed to stop as both groups halted.
It was a breathtaking moment.
Seven legendary fairies with tens of Asgardian disciples. One Asgard Mistress. One wife whose heart had much to say.
Yun Che's expression shifted—just slightly. He stood tall at the head of his party—his companions forming a colorful yet powerful contrast to the ethereal assembly of the Frozen Cloud Asgard.
"Haha!"
Three Nezukos flew toward Xue Ling, their little feet pattering across the ground as they leapt into her arms. The sight was so chaotic and adorable, even the serious ones among the group had to smile.
Xue Ling staggered back a step, arms instinctively catching all three. "Wha—there's three of you now?!"
The three tiny girls giggled in sync, rubbing their cheeks against her like little cats, muffled bamboo mouthpieces bouncing slightly with each movement. Their glowing red eyes sparkled with joy.
To Xue Ling, the moment struck like a lightning bolt to the heart. She evolved the Sword Spirit Doppelganger by copying Ling Yun. Her lips curled into the softest, most maternal smile anyone had ever seen from her.
It felt… warm.
Like family.
A vision, unbidden, flickered in her mind: triplets, giggling, bouncing, calling her "Haha"— withhishand around her shoulder. a family she never imagined, suddenly made possible by the affection of these strange, otherworldly girls.
She let out a soft breath, as if trying not to cry. "I… I feel like I've been blessed…"
And that was the final straw.
In front of her, Chu Yueli stood frozen. Her eye twitched, the edge of her lip tugging downward under her veil. They might work together to defend Nezuko from Ling Kun, that doesn't mean she can have her.
Meanwhile, Xue Ling spun once with all three Nezukos in her arms. "You three are just too precious!"
Three nods in perfect unison.
"AHH~!" Xue Ling clutched her chest. "I'm dying. This is too much."
Chu Yueli could only twitch again as the burning embers of irrational jealousy ignited into a low, steady inferno. Little Fairy sighs and pats her shoulders. She could see her comrades also looking at Xue Ling with jealousy. They played with one Nezuko each and Xue Ling got all three of her.
Ignoring the situation, Gong Yuxian, the Asgard Mistress, gave a polite nod. "Greetings, you must be the Blue Wind Imperial Family's finalist, Junior Yun Che, this one…"
But Yun Che cut in with a bow, voice clear and composed. "It is an honor to meet the famed Asgard Mistress of the Frozen Cloud Asgard, we meet at last. I've heard much about you—your influence, your leadership. Yet, not once did I see you grace the open world like this."
"It seems that way," Gong Yuxian replied evenly.
"Normally, you would send your elders to attend the tournament in your place," he continued. "It's rare for the Asgard Mistress to personally escort her disciples."
"This one had some time," Gong Yuxian explained. "The Vice Asgard Mistress will manage Asgard in my absence."
A Vice? Since when? Yun Che narrowed his eyes, making a mental note as never once been a vice in the original novel. "I see."
Then her gaze sharpened.
"Junior Yun Che," Gong Yuxian said, now dropping all pretense of formality. "This one shall be frank. Tomorrow, you are to face our Qingyue in the grand final. Your companion, Unohana Retsu, has shown herself to be at Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm… and even Princess Cang Yue is at the Grand Perfection Earth Profound Realm."
She paused, letting her words sink in.
"Yet you—the one who leads them, the one whom they follow without question—are only recorded as Peak True Profound Realm." Her tone turned pointed. "This one finds it… difficult to believe."
Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Are you concealing your true strength like Qingyue?"
The question hit like a thunderclap.
Even the composed fairies of Asgard blinked. Tiny gasps escaped from a few. Among them, only Little Fairy and Xia Qingyue remained unsurprised—yet neither spoke.
Yun Che smiled.
"Correct," he said simply. "No reason for me to hide it anymore."
Another wave of shocked expressions rippled across the Asgard disciples. A few even lost their usual cold expression, openly staring at him in disbelief.
Gong Yuxian's eyes slightly widened for the first time.
"And what is your true cultivation, then?"
Yun Che stepped forward. The sunlight caught his eyes—flickering with a golden glow. "What I show is not always what I possess. Just know this—when I face Qingyue tomorrow, you'll see. We already show enough surprises today. Wouldn't want to ruin tomorrow's surprise."
His words were respectful… but they carried thunder beneath their surface.
The temperature dropped ever so slightly.
Xia Qingyue, silent all this time, finally stepped forward. Her eyes met his, clear and steady.
"So," she said softly, "you have been holding back. Even from me."
Yun Che smiled faintly. "Even you. Always has, even from back then."
She inhaled, a thousand unspoken words behind that breath. But she said only:
"Then don't you dare hold back tomorrow."
"I doubt it," Yun Che smirked, meeting Qingyue's gaze without a hint of hesitation. "Unless you have the ability to force me to go all out."
Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly, a trace of frost glittering in her aura.
"Then let's meet tomorrow… and settle everything between us." He turned slightly, his voice lowering to a teasing tone. "A proper marital spat, wouldn't you say?"
That earned a few coughs and wide-eyed looks from the Frozen Cloud disciples. Even Gong Yuxian's stern expression faltered for a moment. Clearly, they are aware of his and Xia Qingyue's true bond. The battle between her and Unohana Retsu was still fresh in their minds. A Water Law master they could never hope to have.
Yun Che respectfully bowed to her. "That will be all. It was an honor to meet the famed Seven Fairies—and the elusive Mistress of the Frozen Cloud Asgard herself."
Then he turned, eyes passing over each of the fairies—one by one.
Though he didn't show it outwardly, Yun Che had already recognized them thanks to his system's intel.
Chu Yueli, the cold instructor who trained many of the fairies, whom he knew better as Mihawk. The one she possessed immense love to despite he made no move to approach her about it—it wasn't the time.
Chu Yuechan, whom he nicknamed Little Fairy, stood quietly near Qingyue, her usual calm gaze tinged with subtle warmth as she looked toward him. Their bond was deep—even if unspoken here.
Then his eyes landed on the twin sisters—Feng Hanxue and Feng Hanyue.
He froze for a fraction of a second.
So these are the twin fairies…
Their beauty was staggering. Silken pale blue robes flowed around their delicate figures, silver hair like moonlight cascading down their backs. But what struck him more was the warmth in their eyes. Unlike the cold, aloof stares of the others, the twins looked… alive. Innocent. Open-hearted.
When they cupped their hands and bowed slightly toward him in return, a faint smile played across their lips.
Their gesture was small—but meaningful.
Yun Che's eyes slightly widened. So unlike the others… They lack the icy suppression. How did they survive Asgard's teachings untainted?
He responded with a subtle nod.
"They're pretty," Mei added innocently, clutching Mai's hand.
Cang Yue smiled seeing these fairies again, she owed them gratitude for showing her around in the Asgard despite making her their favorite teddy bear at that time.
It was a trip she enjoyed.
Jin Mulan frowned slightly seeing his eyed the twins—two more future rivals already sizing up the newest contenders.
Meanwhile, Gong Yuxian observed the entire exchange carefully.
He knows far more than he lets on… and he's already influencing my fairies. That cannot be ignored.
Now he'd finally seen them all.
The final three fairies of Frozen Cloud Asgard had entered the scene, and like their sisters before them, they were nothing short of breathtaking.
Murong Qianxue—the second-ranked fairy beneath only Chu Yuechan—stood with a poise that made her seem as if she floated above the mortal world. Her hair, sleek and black, flowed past her waist like a midnight river. Her figure… was something that Yun Che definitely noticed.
Her willow-like waist, her tender pink skin like snow-kissed porcelain, and most notably…
That chest.
Her snowy robes did very little to hide the impressive curvature. She was comparable—no, equal—to Retsu, Mio, and even Little Fairy and Chu Yueli in bust size.
His gaze lingered.
"Lecher." Jasmine's cold voice snapped in his head.
"Perv." came multiple mental echoes—Nemu, Mio, even Retsu chiming in like a peanut gallery in his soul.
Yun Che didn't even bother defending himself. He was absolutely guilty.
Let a man admire the divine when it's right in front of him… he muttered internally.
Moving on.
Jun Lianqie, the third-ranked fairy, was equally stunning—though in a more grounded sense. If Murong Qianxue was a goddess, Jun Lianqie was a graceful noblewoman: elegant, refined, and composed. She didn't have the same overwhelming aura as Yuechan or Qianxue, but she stood with confidence and grace. In the original story, she was just a background name. But standing here in front of him? She was unforgettable.
Mu Lanyi, the fourth-ranked fairy, carried a similar beauty. Tall, graceful, soft-spoken—she was like a gentle snowfall. Another minor character elevated simply by standing in the presence of this now-altered timeline.
He met these two during the Youngsters Hunting Festival with Cang Yue while escaping together after her cultivation was accidentally revealed. Based on Cang Yue's experience during her trip to visit the Asgard, Jun Lianqie was fond of dressing up dolls in secret and Mu Lanyi likes cooking. Something he never heard from the original novel.
Now they were all here.
Murong Qianxue, Jun Lianqie, Mu Lanyi, Feng Hanxue, Feng Hanyue, Chu Yueli, and Chu Yuechan. Seven of the most breathtaking women in the Blue Wind Empire. A lineup so divine that the sky could fall and most men would still say it was worth it.
And then there was Xia Qingyue—his wife—soon to join their ranks, though she already stood equal to or above them in power and grace.
So this… is Frozen Cloud Asgard's full force.
Yun Che couldn't help but smile. In the original timeline, these women barely registered beyond minor roles. But now? Now they were becoming people—each one unique. Strong. Emotional. Alive.
And they were all watching him.
"Ufufu… Seems these ladies might try to be our rivals in terms of beauty," Retsu mused softly under her veil, the curve of her eyes showing amusement. For now, only her and Nemu are Shinigami lineups that Yun Che had summoned.
Several of the Frozen Cloud Fairies glanced over with subtle, icy scrutiny. Retsu, Mio, and Nemu stood side by side, their presences refined, graceful, and oddly serene despite their obvious closeness to Yun Che.
They didn't just stand beside him—they belonged beside him.
Yet, not one of the Asgard disciples could recall Retsu's actual face. It was as if something suppressed their memories of her unveiled form. Only Xia Qingyue—with her unmatched divine beauty—remembered her true unveiled self in the arena when her gaze met Retsu's.
Similar with Little Fairy whom already used to her face.
What would happen, the fairies wondered silently, if Retsu and her companions removed their veiled hats?
Would even their pride as Asgard's heavenly maidens falter?
Off to the side, Cang Yue quietly adjusted her own veiled hat. Her beauty, once elegant and reserved, now radiated a rising brilliance. Her spiritual aura had begun to change—she was approaching something greater. Yuyun's prophecy echoed in her mind: Once you reach the Emperor Profound Realm, your beauty will rival the moon itself.
"...A troublesome future," she murmured with a sigh, eyes flickering to Yun Che's back. "But, if its for Che'er then, I don't mind being a beautiful moon for him."
Xia Qingyue, unreadable as ever, turned slightly.
"Don't be late tomorrow," she said, voice as soft and cool as falling snow.
Yun Che smiled without turning around. "I never am."
He raised his hand in a casual wave—but not before shooting a quick wink toward Little Fairy, the one who knew his secret, the one who still watched with quiet eyes that revealed more than words ever could.
Chu Yuechan's lips twitched ever so slightly, but no one noticed.
"That one's strange," whispered Feng Hanxue to her sister. "He can transform into a golden-haired warrior, and his presence is like… like moonlight hiding fire."
Feng Hanyue nodded. "We'll learn the truth tomorrow. It's like his group hiding a lot of secrets."
"It is," Murong Qianxue suddenly spoke under her veil. "Grand Imperial Xue Ling has the same cultivation level as the Asgard Mistress, Unohana Retsu is Sky Profound Master and Princess Cang Yue is an Earth Profound Master. Who knows what else they have?"
As the Frozen Cloud Asgard women boarded their ark, Gong Yuxian spared one last glance at Yun Che. "He hides more than anyone here realizes. Can you even defeat him tomorrow, Qingyue?"
Xia Qingyue remained silent beside her.
Tonight… she would revise and rehearse every technique that Forbidden Art she secretly cultivate. Tomorrow, she would fight not just as a disciple of Frozen Cloud Asgard—
But as a woman.
As his wife.
========================
As they stepped onto the bow of the Imperial Family Ark, Yun Che let out a tired sigh. He had vastly underestimated the eagerness of the girls who wanted to learn more.
Now, not only were Retsu, Mio, Nemu, and Cang Yue seated before him with impatient sparkles in their eyes, but even Xue Ling, Lin Yueru, and Jin Mulan had tagged along. Apparently, none of them were willing to miss out.
"Why do I get the feeling I'm running a class now…" Yun Che muttered under his breath.
Nearby, Jasmine and Kon sat nonchalantly, already knowing what was to come. Meanwhile, Mai had taken the initiative to escort Yuanba to the ark's sick bay, and Mei was busy playing tag with the trio of flying Nezukos, giggling as she darted between the railing.
As they all settled onto the bow's seating area, Yun Che rubbed his temple.
"Can't this wait until tomorrow?"
"Nope!" came the chorus from Retsu, Mio, Nemu, and Cang Yue, almost too synchronized. The others just nodded silently, intent on learning.
He gave up.
"Fine. Listen carefully."
He raised a hand, summoning a small flickering golden spark between his fingers—calm, stable, and ancient.
"This is a new and evolved energy type. I call it Ki, or Chi. It's the result of merging two things—Haki and your base or prime energy. When you combine the two, you get a primordial energy that reflects your spirit and intent. For cultivators like me, Retsu, and Nemu, we call it Spirit Ki. For the rest of you, it would be Profound Ki."
The energy flickered into nothingness as he looked up at their wide-eyed expressions.
"Cultivators like you?" Jin Mulan echoed, brow furrowed. Even Xue Ling and Lin Yueru leaned forward now, fully focused.
Yun Che gave a half-smile. "We cultivate a different form of energy than what you're used to. That's why your spiritual senses can't read us properly."
"That… explains everything," Jin Mulan nodded slowly, recalling how Yun Che, Retsu, and Nemu had all felt blank to her. Mio, however, seemed different—an Earth Profound Realm cultivator at most.
Yun Che caught her glance. "Mio's different. Her power is… masked. Let's leave it at that."
"Masked?" Lin Yueru asked.
"Just leave it at that." He sighs as these girls aren't ready to find out that Mio is a high level, a Monarch in hiding.
Then he turned serious.
"As for you three—Sis Ling, Yueru, and Miss Jin—you can't cultivate this Ki. Not yet, anyway. You lack the necessary component."
"Which is?" Jin Mulan asked. Somehow, she was a bit annoyed when he called her 'Miss Jin'.
"Haki," Yun Che said simply. "Only those with Haki—the power of will, presence, and perception—can cultivate Ki. Without it, the merge is impossible."
There was a moment of silence as the weight of that truth settled in.
"Can you teach us this Haki?" Xue Ling asked, her eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Yun Che sighed. He folded his arms and looked out over the clouds drifting past the ark.
"Before I answer that… what are you going to use it for?"
The air grew still.
"Haki," he began, "isn't just another form of energy. It's an extremely advanced spiritual discipline. It lets you channel your spiritual will into your attacks. It separates you from the common cultivators of the world."
He raised two fingers.
"Right now, there are only a handful of people in this entire realm who've awakened it." He gestured toward Retsu, Mio, Nemu, and Cang Yue, then added, "Also, Yoruko and Yoru. But that's it."
He left out Jasmine, Kon, and Little Fairy, intentionally.
"If you want," he continued, "I can awaken Haki within you. But before I do, I want to see why you want it. Because this power… it changes you. It's unlike anything else in this world."
He glanced at Retsu, who gave him a quiet nod.
"Remember the waterbending and firebending Retsu and I used?" he asked.
They all nodded.
"Those are advanced manipulations derived from Haki. They're the next step—what happens when you merge elemental intent and spiritual power. Eventually, if your mastery is deep enough, you'll be able to access Ki… the most primordial and powerful merged version of Haki. Haki for elemental manipulation and awakened Ki is for Energy and Elemental Manipulation."
"Wait—so we can master bending?!" Lin Yueru's eyes lit up. "I thought that was exclusive to you two!"
"Haki is the foundation," Yun Che explained. "You need to master that first before you can even dream of bending. And even then, normal cultivators can usually only control one element—if they can control one at all. We won't know your affinities until you've cultivated Haki."
Cang Yue, who had been listening carefully, finally spoke. "We should consider training Big Sis and Ru'er," she said, nodding to Xue Ling and Lin Yueru. "They're my personal protectors, and I want strong guardians at the palace in case we're away."
Yun Che considered her words. He gave a small nod. "That's fair. Haki and bending can be shut off at will—so there's no risk of imbalance. And both of them have already earned my trust."
"Since you trust them so much, I'll help you out and awaken their Haki." Yun Che nodded.
Then, his gaze turned toward the quietest among them.
"What about her?" he asked, tilting his chin toward Jin Mulan.
The atmosphere shifted slightly.
"Am I even supposed to be here?" Jin Mulan murmured, her voice tinged with melancholy. "I only tagged along. I'm not… important like the rest."
Yun Che's eyes narrowed slightly.
"At first, I was going to exclude you."
Jin Mulan stiffened, her jaw tightening.
"But then I saw something in you—through my own Haki." His voice softened. "Something strong. Something deeply buried. You have a very strong will. From where you came from, it was understandable why your spirit is that strong."
He stepped closer, the breeze brushing his white coat.
"You're going to need every advantage when we go back to Jin Providence. And I believe… you have a damn good reason to learn Haki."
Jin Mulan's eyes widened—part surprise, part disbelief. She looked away for a moment, hiding the sudden mist in her eyes.
"Well then," Cang Yue declared gracefully, "to ensure that we can properly train you Haki… I hereby take you as my Imperial Protector, Miss Jin."
"Eh?!" Jin Mulan blinked in disbelief, stunned by the sudden elevation. "Why me?"
Cang Yue offered a soft smile. "Consider it a formality. We can't just teach Haki to anyone without cause. But a personal protector? That grants us full justification." Her tone dipped playfully. "Besides… I've taken a liking to you."
Lin Yueru pouted gently from the side. "Yue'er, you already appointed me as your age-matched protector."
Xue Ling sighs. "Now you're picking someone even younger than me? She's three years below my age bracket."
"Pfft… haha!" Cang Yue chuckled behind her sleeve. "Big sis, You do realize you'll be managing the palace with your position as the Grand Imperial Protector, right?"
Cang Yue eyes Lin Yueru. "Ru'er, you're nearly at the Peak of Spirit Profound Realm—you'll be strong enough to guard our entire faction solo if need be." She then turned to Jin Mulan. "Besides, Miss Mulan here is already at the third level of the Emperor Profound Realm. I'd be a fool not to secure her for the palace."
Xue Ling folded her arms thoughtfully. "Hmm… that is a tempting offer. If she becomes an Imperial Protector, the Imperial Family will hold two Thrones under its wing." She glanced at Lin Yueru. "Once we get you that special pill from her master, you won't be far behind either."
Jin Mulan looked conflicted, her hands clenching slightly at her sides.
"I'm honored, Princess Cang Yue. But…" she hesitated, eyes falling. "The Jin Providence… my family… it's not that simple."
Cang Yue's gaze softened. "You're worried about the matters in the Jin Providence" she said gently. Jin Mulan nodded.
"Then let us settle it for you," Cang Yue continued. "Once you're inducted, the Imperial Family will formally protect the Jin Family. This way, your family is not only safe—but elevated through you."
Jin Mulan's breath caught. Her eyes widened with stunned realization.
"Really?!" Her voice cracked just slightly from disbelief.
"Yes. You'll be protecting me as one of my Imperial Protector, and in return, your home gains protection of the Imperial Court."
For a moment, Jin Mulan stood silent. Then she slowly dropped to one knee, her voice resolute.
"Then… I accept your offer, Princess Cang Yue."
She lifted her gaze to Yun Che just behind Cang Yue, her heart firm with new resolve.
This… is my chance. To reclaim the old Mu Che. To finally walk beside him again—not as a stranger… but as an equal.
"We'll postpone your Haki training for now," Yun Che said, his tone calm yet firm. "The awakening process takes time, and I need to deal with these four or five first." His eyes briefly flicked toward Jin Mulan, Xue Ling, and Lin Yueru. Retsu and Mio exchanged a glance—this new development had shifted the dynamic subtly, and they could feel it.
"Yuu-kun," Retsu asked, leaning in curiously, "what exactly is Ki?" Mio and Nemu quietly listened as well, their eyes fixed on him with keen interest.
"Since everyone including Miss Mulan is here, might as well listened in." Yun Che turned slightly before speaking, but was cut off.
"Please don't call me Miss Mulan," Jin Mulan said gently but firmly. "Just… Mulan. Or Lan'er, if you prefer."
Yun Che blinked, slightly taken aback by her tone. He sighed. "…Fine." His tone softened slightly. "Anyway, since you're here, Mulan. you might as well sit in with Yueru and Sis Ling. Yue'er trusts you three, so I can share some insights into the energy we cultivate."
He stood, crossing his arms as his voice shifted into lecture mode.
"Ki is the primordial form of Haki. It's what happens when you merge your primary energy with both Kenbunshoku Haki and Busoshoku Haki—Observation and Armament. When fully merged, it becomes something more potent… something deeper."
He paused before elaborating.
"Before mastering Ki, one must have the ability to master three forms of Haki. If they can't, two will be sufficient.
Observation Haki—governs perception, foresight, sensing intentions.
Armament Haki—for physical reinforcement, external manifestation, and defense.
Conqueror Haki—the rarest, a manifestation of spiritual willpower capable of overwhelming others."
Xue Ling blinked. "Wait—Conqueror's Haki? What's that exactly?"
Yun Che smirked slightly. "You remember the rebellion a few weeks ago?"
Her brows furrowed in thought. "When Yue'er released that… pressure… and half the city fainted?"
"Exactly. That's Conqueror's Haki," Yun Che confirmed. "The power to dominate the wills of others. Rare and fearsome. Back then, Little Yue's Haki was lacking in terms of control, so she released it with extreme power."
"Like when Mihawk crushed the sect elders with nothing but his presence?" Xue Ling asked, eyes widening at the memory.
Yun Che rubbed the back of his head, a sweatdrop forming. "Yeah… that was also Conqueror's Haki."
Lin Yueru turned to Cang Yue, astonished. "You… have that kind of power?"
"Some of us do," Yun Che admitted. "Myself, Cang Yue, Retsu and Mio… alongside Mihawk, of course."
Xue Ling's face turned pale for a second. "…Then when Ling Yun passed out today—"
"That was me," Yun Che said flatly. The girls stared at him, processing the weight of that statement.
"Back on track," he continued. "Haki is powerful on its own, but once you master it, I can guide you to merge it with your profound energy. That will awaken Ki—its primal and evolved form. It will depend on your prime power. Whether Profound Energy or Spiritual Energy."
His gaze sharpened. "When you infuse Ki into your attacks, the results are monstrous. Imagine your current techniques—enhanced to ten times their current force. Maybe even fifty, depending on how much Ki you channel."
The entire group stared at Yun Che in disbelief.
"Ten times stronger?" Xue Ling murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. The thought alone was overwhelming.
"That kind of power…" Lin Yueru clenched her fists, awestruck. "It's too broken."
Jin Mulan looked away briefly, a troubled look on her face. "No wonder you're unmatched."
Yun Che chuckled, folding his arms behind his back.
"And that's only the beginning." He stepped forward, planting both feet firmly as he brought his fists to his sides.
In an instant, a white aura erupted from his body—exploding outward in a radiant burst of energy. The sheer pressure made the ark tremble slightly beneath them. Wind whipped through their hair and garments as the charged Ki roared like a storm.
Gasps echoed across the bow.
"The evolution of Haki grants the ability to charge your power—what I call Spirit Charge," Yun Che explained, voice calm beneath the hum of power. "You force your Ki past its threshold, pushing your body beyond its normal limits. But only for a short time. The power drains rapidly, and when it's gone, you return to your baseline. You can use Spirit Charge to charge up all your lost power making you have the ability spam all your abilities."
Retsu's eyes lit up with unfiltered wonder. "We can charge our powers and surpass our limits!?" Her voice trembled with excitement.
Jasmine narrowed her eyes, intrigued despite herself. Kon blinked. Mio and Nemu leaned forward, expressions unreadable but locked on Yun Che. Even Cang Yue's breath caught in her throat.
Yun Che nodded. "Yes… but the duration is tied to your cultivation realm. For you, the boost can push you two full major realms higher. For us—Spiritual Cultivators—it's four full realms. It's not permanent, but it can change everything in battle. It doesn't increase strength, but imagine attacks infused with a lot of power can do. Even a simple punch infused with a lot of Ki can do a massive amount of damage. Imagine punching something with a full powered state."
He let his white aura burn bright for another few seconds with charging … before it began to fade, slowly dimming like a dying flame. In moments, it was gone.
"See? The charge fades quickly. You can keep refueling it, but it drains stamina fast. It's not something you can abuse casually."
The girls watched silently, absorbing everything.
What Yun Che didn't say aloud was what the system shows only to him:
Once they mastered Spirit Charge, they could unlock its final evolution—Sparking Charge. Once they charged up to their secondary threshold, it will bypass it as well and enter a new state. The system is called Sparking Mode.
Ten seconds of full power.
Ten seconds where they could fight without draining energy and stamina, as if they had become pure force incarnate.
And beyond that—constant full-power mode would become trainable. The implications were staggering.
If he mastered it, his path to achieving Full Powered Super Saiyan—a form only spoken of in legends from another world—would become reality. And not just that. Every evolved state he had once deemed unstable or temporary… could become sustainable. Every Bankai, every Heretic Transformation, every peak form of combat or energy—all would be within reach.
Yun Che exhaled slowly, his white aura now nothing more than a fading memory in the air.
But that future wasn't for today.
Not yet.
"Yuu-kun! Please teach us!" Retsu's voice rang out with bright enthusiasm.
"Bypassing our limits—how exciting!" Mio bounced on her toes, fists clenched, eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Yuu-sama, we'll be in your care." Nemu's smile was calm but unmistakably eager.
"I wish we could've learned this before the tournament…" Cang Yue murmured, unaware that even now, her power was far beyond what anyone could imagine.
"More power for Kon-sama!!" Kon shouted proudly, puffing up like a mascot.
Yun Che raised both hands to calm the tide of excitement. "Okay, okay…" he chuckled. True to his promise, he began guiding them—Retsu, Mio, Nemu, Cang Yue, and even Kon—through the process of awakening their Ki.
As for Jasmine, her training would have to take place within the inner world. This step wasn't for her just yet.
Without a word, Yun Che stepped forward and pressed two fingers to each of their foreheads—infusing a trace of his own Ki into their core. A spark, a guide. The seed of evolution.
"Now... pour your Haki and your current energy into it." His voice was firm, yet patient.
"Let the two merge. Let the pressure shape it. Eventually, a new core will form—your true core. Your original power will become an evolved power."
He stepped back, arms crossed.
"Once that's done... you'll no longer need Spiritual or Profound Energy. From now on, it will be Spirit Ki or Profound Ki—your evolved form. Take your time. Don't rush it. And when you're ready... I'll teach you how to charge it."
The group grew silent.
Retsu sat with her legs kneeling and eyes closed, her breath steady and precise.
Mio clenched her fists tightly, sweat already dotting her brow.
Nemu's face was calm, but her mind raced with calculations.
Cang Yue, held her hand over her heart, drawing power inward.
Kon… somehow just looked constipated, but spiritual energy shimmered around him like mist.
Yun Che couldn't help but smile.
He admired them—not just for their strength, but their hunger to grow.
Especially Retsu. She had learned Haki, bending, Eagle Vision, Eagle Scent, and mastered each. She had even created her own Rasengan... and the Rasenshuriken. And now? Now, she was moments away from shedding her old power and stepping into something truly divine.
What would happen… once she evolved her Reiatsu into Spirit Ki?
What would Nemu achieve with her scientific mind focused on Ki mechanics?
Mio's reckless potential?
Cang Yue's natural refinement?
He could already imagine it:
Flash Steps that tore through space.
Ki-enhanced Rasenshuriken that reshaped mountains.
Elemental manipulation replaced by true energy mastery.
This was no longer training.
This was evolution.
============================
He turned to face the three in front of him—Xue Ling, Lin Yueru, and Jin Mulan. Their eyes were burning with anticipation, awe, and a bit of fear. Understandable. The power he spoke of… could rewrite the rules of the cultivation world itself.
Yun Che simply smiled, the weight of everything behind it.
"Master Haki first. Then awakened Ki. And then…"
His voice deepened, as if he was passing down a secret of gods.
"If you're worthy… I'll teach you Spirit Charge."
The wind shifted. Their hearts pounded.
Xue Ling swallowed hard but nodded.
Lin Yueru's jaw tightened with determination.
Jin Mulan clenched her fists, her eyes reflecting the fire of resolve.
They didn't need to speak. Their expressions told him everything. They would chase that power.
And he would be the one to guide them—to break their limits.