Journey of the Last Saiyan

Exhausted but determined, Karena and Greta pushed their mana to its limits, finally stumbling into the bustling city of Egon. This city was the beating heart of commerce in the man-folk kingdom, home to three towering giants of industry: the Valsenas, the Mirovs, and the Takurs.

In the opulent estate of the Mirovs, Derin, the family patriarch, sat hunched over his desk. Despite his rotund figure, he was a publicly a formidable High Wielder of mana. But, in reality he was a Half-Step Supreme wielder, his mind as sharp as his magical prowess. He pored over the month's earnings and competitor reports, plotting his next move in the endless game of commercial chess.

A soft knock interrupted his musings. A servant entered, whispering of hooded figures at the back door bearing a familiar token. Derin's eyes widened as he examined the proffered emblem, his jovial demeanor vanished, replaced by concern. "Bring them in immediately," he commanded, "and cancel all my appointments. Discretion is paramount."

As the windows were hastily shuttered, Derin paced anxiously. When the cloaked figures were ushered in, the air grew thick with tension. One of them stepped forward, lowering her hood. "Father..." Karena's voice quavered with emotion.

Derin moved to embrace his daughter but froze mid-step, his gaze locked on the frail infant in her arms. His expression hardened, a frost creeping into his eyes as his aura flared dangerously. "Is this... my grandson?" he whispered, his voice a mixture of horror and barely contained rage. "Who did this? Was it that accursed King? Tell me, daughter. WHO DARED TO HARM MY BLOOD?"

As Derin's mana probed the child, revealing the extent of the cruelty inflicted, Karena's composure crumbled. She recounted the harrowing tale of betrayal and escape, her words punctuated by quiet sobs.

When Karena finished her harrowing tale, a heavy silence fell over the room. Derin's rage had cooled to a smoldering determination. With deliberate movements, he retrieved an ornate vial from his desk, the most potent healing potion in his possession. Approaching his daughter, he gently cradled his grandson, his imposing stature softening with tenderness.

With utmost care, Derin administered the potion, allowing it to trickle drop by drop into the infant's mouth. As they watched, color returned to the child's pallid skin, and even the cruel scars began to fade. When the babe's breathing eased into a peaceful slumber, Derin returned him to Karena's anxious arms.

"My dear," he said softly, his voice tinged with both relief and concern, "what do you intend to do now? You're safe here. With our wealth and influence, I've cultivated loyal dogs who would challenge and bite even the king for us. So, tell me, what is your heart's desire?"

Karena hesitated, her eyes flickering between her father and her child. Taking a deep breath, she replied, "Father, nothing would bring me more joy than to return home, to feel safe within these walls. But those monsters... they won't let me go so easily. If I stay, I'll only be bringing danger to mother, and my brother."

Derin raised an eyebrow, a hint of his usual humor returning. "Oh? And what about your old father? Am I not worth worrying about?"

A small smile graced Karena's lips, a flicker of their old dynamic shining through the gravity of their situation. "My father is the strongest man I know. He can handle any trouble I send his way."

"Haha! Damn right!" Derin puffed up, momentarily basking in his daughter's praise before sobering once more.

Karena's gaze returned to her sleeping child, her voice soft but resolute. "But father, I'm a mother now. I have a responsibility to restore what was stolen from my son - his talent, his future. I must search for a way, no matter where it leads me."

Derin's expression grew solemn. He reached for a necklace he wore, one he'd acquired long ago through a fateful encounter. With a swift motion, he snapped it from his neck, clutching it tightly as Karena and Greta looked on in confusion.

"What has been done is monstrous," he began, his tone measured, "but it may not be irreversible. The solution, however, doesn't lie within the man-folk continent. But somewhere else…"

Karena leaned forward, a flicker of hope igniting in her tear-stained eyes. "What do you mean, Father?"

Derin's gaze grew distant, as if peering into a long-buried memory. "Years ago, I had an... encounter. I was transporting cargo by sea when my ship strayed off course, right into the border, into the heart of the Raging Storms. As the vessel splintered around me, I thought I'd never see you or your mother again. But then... she appeared."

He paused, lost in the recollection. "A woman of indescribable beauty and power. Though her attire was simple, her presence was unmistakable. She could navigate through the storms and not only saved me from certain death but brought me to safety on a nearby island."

Karena's brow furrowed in disbelief. "Father, how is that possible? It is said that not even a Supreme rank can navigate those storms. How could she...?"

Derin's lips curved into a wry smile. "Because, my dear, she was a Unity level expert."

"What?" Karena and Greta exclaimed in unison, leaping to their feet. Unity level practitioners were thought to be myths, legends from a bygone era. The idea that Derin had not only met one but been rescued by one was almost unbelievable but, knowing her father, she had no choice but, to believe it.

Derin gestured for them to sit, his expression grave. "I was just as shocked as you are now. But during our time together, I learned things about our world that changed everything I thought I knew. Tell me, Karena, how many continents do you believe exist since the 'Great Divide'?"

Karena answered hesitantly, "Four... right, Father?"

Derin shook his head, as he replied. "Five. There are five continents in our world. And she... she came from the fifth. The Central Continent."

Karena's breath caught in her throat. "The Central Continent? But Father, that's... that's just a legend, isn't it?"

"No, my dear. It's very real, and it may be the key to saving your son." Derin leaned forward, his voice dropping to a near whisper. "At first, I was skeptical too. I even accused her of lying, wondering why a Unity rank wielder would fabricate such tales. But my disbelief only confused her. You see, what we call the Unity rank, they refer to as the Manifestation realm. And what we call mana, they call Ki. Here's the truly astonishing part—she mentioned that her village had many like her, and even beings of greater power."

Karena and Greta sat in stunned silence, trying to process this world-altering information. Derin continued, his eyes alight with the possibilities before them. "Can you imagine it? Beings more powerful than what we consider the pinnacle of strength? The Central Continent isn't just a myth—it's a realm of untold wonders and power. And it may be our only hope of restoring what was taken from your son. At the heart of their village stands a great tree, said to heal any wound and grant blessings. In fact, Jassa told me that the great tree is their divine protector, and her people are called 'Children of the Great Tree.' Also, it was a piece of fruit from their settlement, that allowed me to ascend from early High rank to Half-Step Supreme. So, daughter, while I can't speak for other continents, I firmly believe only her people can help my grandchild."

As the weight of this revelation settled upon them, a spark of determination ignited in Karena's eyes.

"Father," Karena said, her voice steady with newfound resolve, "tell me how to reach the Central Continent. If there's even a chance it can help my son, I need to find a way there."

Derin nodded, then held out the necklace he had removed earlier, its pendant glowing with a soft, otherworldly light. "This, my dear, is your key to the Central Continent. Jassa gifted it to me, knowing of my fascination with her homeland. She said that to activate it, one must pray to the symbol of the great tree with all their heart. A gateway will open in response to a sincere plea. I never tried it. While I longed to see the Central Continent, my place is here with your mother and my children, you and your brother. But, now my dear you should use it to find a way to the Central Continent."

Amazed that a simple necklace could bridge continents and grant access to the fabled Central Continent, Karena nodded gratefully at her father. She accepted the pendant with trembling hands. Closing her eyes, she prayed fervently, her entire being focused on a single, desperate plea for her son's salvation.

Suddenly, a gasp from Greta broke the silence. Before them, the very fabric of space began to ripple. Derin's eyes glistened with unshed tears as he looked upon his daughter.

"Thank you, Father. I—" Karena began, her voice thick with emotion. But Derin gently placed a finger on her lips, shaking his head.

"No thanks are necessary, my brave girl. You are my daughter, and this is what fathers do." He pulled her into a fierce embrace, then stepped back, his hands on her shoulders. "Now go. Your son needs you, and don't worry about us. I am here."

With a final, determined nod to her father and a quick squeeze of Greta's hand, Karena turned to face the portal. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward, her heart pounding with fear and hope in equal measure.

Demon-folk Continent

Deep within the heart of a majestic palace, shrouded in a dark aura, sat the Demon King in meditation. This formidable being had, three centuries ago, united the proud demon-folk tribes under his iron fist, becoming the undisputed leader of all demon-folk.

His reign had brought unprecedented prosperity to the demon continent, elevating his people to new heights of power and influence. However, this golden age for demon-folk came at a terrible price for the other races unfortunate enough to share their realm.

The Demon King's rule was marked by a ruthlessness that knew no bounds. The beast-folk, once proud and stood on equal footing with the demon-folk, had been systematically exterminated. Their men were slaughtered without mercy, while their women were subjected to a fate some considered worse than death - forced into becoming pleasure slaves to satisfy the twisted desires of the demon-folk elder council and the king himself.

Even the man-folk, resilient as they were, found themselves pushed to the brink of extinction. The Demon King's forces had been on the verge of delivering the final, crushing blow to the last of the human warriors when something unprecedented occurred.

Reports flooded in of a Unity rank expert appearing out of nowhere, decimating the demon forces with ease and spiriting away the remaining man-folk to safety. The news sent shockwaves through the demon hierarchy, for Unity rank practitioners were thought to be little more than myths - even the Demon King himself had only reached the half-step Unity rank.

As the Demon King pondered this development, his brow furrowed with concern. The emergence of a Unity rank expert among the man-folk was more than just a setback - it was a potential threat to everything he had built. It meant that the man-folk now had the backing of a true powerhouse, one that even he couldn't afford to offend lightly.

The very thought of being forced to show restraint, to acknowledge the man-folk as anything other than inferior beings to be conquered, filled the Demon King with a seething rage. He had spent centuries cultivating the belief in demon-folk superiority, and now, in one fell swoop, that carefully constructed narrative was under threat.

As he grit his teeth in frustration, dark energy crackling around his clenched fists, the Demon King's mind raced, searching for a solution that would maintain his iron grip on power.

"I must ascend to the Unity rank myself," he growled, his voice a low rumble that shook the palace foundations. "There must be a reason for this sudden rise in power of the man-folk. A hidden treasure? An ancient technique? Whatever it is, I'll uncover it and claim that power for myself. Once I break into Unity, I'll be able to trace that expert's origin."

But then, a cruel smile twisted his lips as a new plan began to form in his mind. "No... there's a better way. That Unity rank expert revealed themselves to rescue those pathetic man-folk. We can use that against them."

His eyes gleamed with malicious intent as he continued, "Once I break through to the Unity rank, I'll be able to navigate the raging storms that divide the continents. I'll lead my armies on a grand hunt, systematically eradicating every last man-folk we can find. That self-righteous 'expert' will have no choice but to reveal themselves."

The Demon King's laughter echoed through the chamber, a chilling sound that would have sent shivers down the spine of even the bravest warrior. "Yes, and when they do, I'll capture them, extract their secrets, and use that knowledge to cement the demon-folk as the unquestionable rulers of all realms. This setback will become the catalyst for our ultimate victory!"

With renewed purpose, the Demon King rose from his throne, dark energy swirling around him like a tempest.

Beast-Folk Continent

The grand colosseum, once a symbol of beast-folk superiority, now stood as a silent witness to a shocking turn of events. The air was thick with disbelief and confusion as thousands of beast-folk spectators struggled to process what they had just witnessed.

"I... I still can't believe this," murmured a stunned beast-folk, his eyes fixed on the battle-scarred arena floor. "Our emperor... defeated?"

The words hung in the air, heavy with implications. For generations, the beast-folk, like their demon-folk counterparts, had viewed man-folk as little more than weak prey, unworthy of respect or consideration. But today, that worldview had been shattered in the most spectacular fashion.

Their mighty Beast Emperor, had been challenged by a mysterious hooded figure. As the battle raged on, the challenger's hood had fallen away, revealing the unthinkable – a man-folk warrior. The collective gasp that had echoed through the colosseum at that moment was nothing compared to the stunned silence that followed the battle's conclusion.

The Beast Emperor, their invincible leader, lay defeated, barely clinging to life. His opponent stood tall, seemingly untouched by the ferocious combat that had just taken place.

As realization dawned, whispers began to ripple through the crowd. "Did you see how he moved?" "That power... it couldn't be..." "Is it possible?"

A grizzled veteran, his fur streaked with battle scars, voiced what many were beginning to suspect. "By the ancestral spirits," he growled, his voice a mix of awe and fear, "that was no ordinary man-folk. That... that was a Unity rank expert!"

The proclamation sent shockwaves through the assembled beast-folk. Unity rank – a level of power so rare and legendary that many believed it to be mere myth. And yet, here they stood, having witnessed its terrible reality firsthand.

As the man-folk warrior prepared to depart, he left behind a chilling message that echoed through the stunned colosseum: "Man-folk are not prey. If you mistreat them ever again, then don't blame me for coming back to finish what I started."

With those words, he vanished into a ripple in space, leaving behind a shaken empire and a people forced to confront a harsh new reality. The age-old beliefs that had defined beast-folk society lay in ruins, much like their defeated emperor.

As the crowd began to disperse, their minds reeled with questions. How could a man-folk achieve such power?

Central Continent

Three centuries had passed since Orach's descent, and the Children of the Great Tree had not merely survived—they had thrived. The handful of original settlers who remained alive till this day, bore witness to an extraordinary transformation, their eyes glistening with pride as they recounted the journey from a displaced, harassed tribe to the magnificent village that now flourished around the Great Tree when narrating the stories to their descendants.

Where once stood a humble village, now stood a stronghold of the mightiest people on this world. The ruins of their first settlement had long since vanished, replaced by an expansive training ground where young warriors honed their skills under the watchful gaze of seasoned mentors. The air hummed with the clash of practice weapons and the determined shouts of aspiring defenders.

Hadrin, once the tribe's chief and now its revered elder, had developed a habit of observing his people from the balcony of his home built on a tall tree in the village. His face, now that of a distinguished elder, would break into a contented smile as he watched children play in safety, men and women go about their daily lives with purpose, and warriors grow ever stronger in the training fields.

The settlement had expanded far beyond its original borders, with elegant structures spiraling outward from the Great Tree in concentric circles. Gardens and orchards dotted the landscape, their bounty a testament to the tribe's harmony with nature. Aqueducts, inspired by the wisdom imparted by the seven apostles, brought fresh water to every corner of this village cum city. Workshops echoed with the sounds of craftsmen perfecting their creations, while a newly constructed school building stood proudly beside the great library—no longer serving as a makeshift classroom. These structures now acted as beacons of knowledge, preserving the stories and teachings passed down through generations.

As twilight approached each day, the city would come alive with a soft, ethereal glow. Luminescent plants, cultivated with techniques learned from the apostles' tales of distant worlds, lit the pathways and adorned the buildings, creating a breathtaking spectacle that seemed to bridge the gap between the earthly and the divine.

Hadrin's gaze often drifted to the Great Tree, its massive trunk and sprawling canopy a constant reminder of their divine guardian. Yet, he—and now like all the Children of the Great Tree—knew the truth, their true god was not the tree itself, but the figure slumbering beneath the tree, the one he had glimpsed within the fireball three centuries ago.

Initially, Hadrin's heart had been gripped by fear. He remembered seeing a tail on that figure and wondered if this being might be a beast-folk powerhouse who would one day turn against them. However, as the years passed and as the seven apostles shared their knowledge and guidance, those fears gradually melted away. In their place grew a deep reverence and understanding.

When the apostles visited to teach children in their dreams, they shared stories that painted vivid pictures of worlds beyond their own—realms filled with wonders, teeming with diverse life, and fraught with equal dangers. These tales expanded the horizons of the Children of the Great Tree, igniting their passion for exploration and self-improvement. They came to understand that their world was but a small part of a vast, interconnected universe, waiting to be discovered by those who could transcend their limits.

It was during one of these storytelling sessions that a child's innocent question about the figure he had learned about, when he overheard adults in the village talking about it, led to a revelation that shook the very foundations of their beliefs. The apostles spoke of a mighty and benevolent prince from a higher realm, a being who loved exploration and was kind. This prince had once saved all life and continued to do so, even at the risk of being sealed in a dreaded realm.

This story spread like wildfire, inspiring not just the children but all who heard it. The tribe was moved to learn of their great god's true nature, feeling both awed by his power and touched by his sacrifices. They understood now that one day, this god would awaken and leave, a bittersweet truth, tempered by the knowledge that he had a family to return to.

Since that day, the Children of the Great Tree had made it their mission to follow in the footsteps of their benevolent protector. They passed down the stories through generations, each retelling reinforcing their commitment to kindness, strength, and the pursuit of knowledge.

As Hadrin watched the sun set behind the Great Tree, casting long shadows across the prosperous city, he felt a deep sense of gratitude. The tribe had come so far, guided by the wisdom of their sleeping god and the teachings of the apostles. They had built not just a settlement, but a legacy, one that would continue to grow and flourish long after he was gone.

With a contented sigh, the old chief turned his gaze skyward, where stars were just beginning to twinkle in the twilight. Somewhere among those celestial bodies, he mused, lay the realms from the apostles' tales. A spark of hope ignited in his aged heart—perhaps one day, the Children of the Great Tree would venture forth, ready to explore those distant worlds. They would carry the light of their civilization to the farthest reaches of the universe and into other realms—and perhaps, one day, meet and serve their God in his own kingdom.

The following day, an elder council convened in the grand hall of the chief. Rarwan, the current leader of the thriving village and great-great-grandchild of Elder Bao, had called this urgent meeting. Around a circular table were eight chairs, seven for the seven elders, each a pillar of wisdom and strength for their tribe, and the central eight for Rarwan himself.

As Hadrin, the eldest among them, shuffled into the room, he grumbled, "Rarwan, my boy, why drag us old folks to this stuffy meeting? What's so pressing? I was enjoying a nice nap."

Rarwan offered a wry smile to his mentor. "Elder Hadrin, I assure you, I wouldn't disturb your rest if it wasn't of utmost importance."

Before Hadrin could retort, Asdrin, another original settler, chimed in, "Oh, hush, Hadrin. Rarwan's got a good head on his shoulders. If he's called us here, it must be serious." She turned to Rarwan with a nod. "Go on, child. Don't let this old coot bother you. Your Auntie's got your back."

Pfft

A muffled snicker from Rarwan's men behind him was quickly silenced by their chief's stern glance. The warriors straightened, a bead of sweat forming on their brows.

Hadrin sighed dramatically. "Look what you've done, Asdrin. You've embarrassed the lad in front of his men. Still as tactless as ever, I see."

Asdrin's eyes flashed. "Why, you little... Are you picking a fight, Hadrin? Because I'll gladly oblige and kick your—"

A sharp clap cut through the bickering. Lira—Hadrin's second wife, the youngest elder, and the strongest among the Children of the Great Tree who carried the title of Great Elder—fixed them both with a stern look. "Enough, you two. We're elders. What example are we setting for the next generation? Husband, Asdrin, take your seats."

Asdris, Asdrin's brother, shook his head and as he entered the hall said, "You two never change. And Old Chief Hadrin, we all know what keeps you so... busy at night causing you to sleep so much in the day." The comment made both Hadrin and Lira blush crimson as they glared at Asdris. Unfazed, he turned to his sister. "And you, dear sister—Rarwan may be your protégé, but he's a grown man now. Save your mothering for private moments, not in front of his warriors."

Asdrin opened and closed her mouth several times before huffing and falling silent. Hadrin, about to tease her, caught Lira's warning glance and thought better of it.

As the last three elders—Mordaris, overseer of the workshops; Hadrick, master of the training fields; and Kerin, keeper of the school and library—took their seats, Rarwan cleared his throat and glanced at all elders present before addressing the audience.

Rarwan revealed he had dispatched four Unity rank experts—Telack, Jassa, Lisvin, and Yssara—to scout the four continents. The news made the temperature in the room drop as the elder's expressions changed. Hadrin's eyes flashed with a hint of anger, prompting his wife to squeeze his hand reassuringly under the table. The reaction was shared by Asdris and Asdrin, fellow original settlers who, like Hadrin, carried bitter memories of their forced displacement by other races and even their own brethren. Despite their current strength being more than sufficient for revenge, they had preferred to maintain their isolation and just focus on their village's' children.

Rarwan continued, his voice calm and collected but the excitement in his eyes didn't go unnoticed. "What they've discovered is astonishing. On the other continents, powerful figures have united their racial tribes. In the southwest, the Demon King arose three centuries ago, forming the Demon-folk empire and renaming their territory the Demon-folk continent. In the northeast, our man-folk brethren united under Queen Angrit's kingdom, now ruled by her descendants. The northwestern continent has become the beast-folk empire under their beast emperor, while the southern continent is uniquely governed by a council of all races under mer-folk leadership. Most surprisingly, what the outside world considers their highest achievable level—their "Unity rank"—is merely equivalent to our Manifestation realm. Currently, only the Demon King shows potential to truly achieve Unity rank, as he's rumored to be at the half-step level. In essence, all continental leaders pale in comparison to our experts. They've fallen far behind us in both strength and development, though they've made some modest technological advances."

Hadrick leaned forward and asked. "Hold it. are you seriously telling me that our Manifestation realm experts alone can just go and dominate the continents? How is it possible that the outside world is this weak?"

"It seems so, elder Hadrick," Rarwan nodded.

Hadrin, his anger momentarily forgotten, leaned back in his chair and added, "That makes sense when you consider how our tribe has had the guidance of the apostles and the blessing of our Great Tree, while the other races only had access to limited resources. Their stagnation is understandable."

Lira and Asdrin nodded to this statement as well.

Mordaris, with curiosity asked,"You mentioned they've made some technological advancements, yes, did the scouts manage to snag few items? Or can they draw the outline and explain its function?"

Asdris's eyes narrowed and asked Rarwan point blank, "And what do you propose we do with this information, young chief?"

Rarwan nodded, anticipating the question. "Honored elders, before I answer that, there's something crucial you need to hear. Telack, Lisvin, Jassa and Yssara please step forward and share your findings."

The scouts stepped forward one by one to deliver their findings. Telack reported that the demon-folk empire had systematically persecuted the man-folk, nearly wiping out their entire population. He then detailed how he had stepped in to rescue the survivors, who were now sheltered in temporary camps outside the village, awaiting the council's verdict. Lisvin described his journey to the beast-folk continent, where he witnessed similar injustices and challenged their emperor in a public grand tournament, defeating him and sending a clear message about the consequences of tyranny. Jassa's observations of the man-folk kingdom revealed its decline from former glory into stagnation, with its people more focused on internal politics than progress. Yssara uncovered the façade of the southern alliance, where despite claims of unity, man-folk faced systematic discrimination through unequal representation and biased policies.

The elders listened with measured attention, their expressions revealing both concern and intrigue at the scouts' bold infiltration of these foreign powers.

Asdris spoke firmly, his hands pressed against the table. "Young chief, has our strength made you overconfident? These missions, while successful, placed our people at unnecessary risk. You've grown up in times of peace and prosperity under the Great Tree's protection. Sure our people are strong but, there are many things that can go wrong. The outside world harbors dangers you cannot yet comprehend. One misstep, one betrayal, and our scouts could have faced unimaginable consequences."

Before Rarwan could respond, Lira intervened with her characteristic grace. "While the chief's approach was bold, the intelligence gathered is invaluable. However," she turned to Rarwan, her expression softening, "I agree with Elder Asdris. You took unnecessary risks and should have approached us first with your plans." She paused meaningfully. "There's something you should know—you weren't the first to seek knowledge of the outside world."

All eyes focused on Lira as she touched the pendant at her neck, its Great Tree carving gleaming in the light. "A century and a half ago, in my younger days, I met with an accident and was swept beyond our borders to the man-folk continent. As a mere foundation realm cultivator, I survived only through luck and this pendant's protection. Even then, I nearly fell victim to a noble's cruel intentions, until," she smiled at her husband, "Hadrin appeared and saved me."

"A century and a half ago, Elder Hadrin was at manifestation level..." Rarwan's eyes widened in realization. "Then the legendary Unity rank figure who vanished—the one the outside world speaks of—was Elder Hadrin!" This revelation shocked those behind Rarwan.

"Enough." Hadrin raised his hand silencing all, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "I understand your desire to help, Rarwan. But I can only support accepting orphaned young children into our community. Integrating adults who carry deep-seated prejudices risks corrupting the harmony we've built here. While their suffering deserves compassion, their hatred and their will of vengeance doesn't align with our teachings and could spread like a poison through our village. For now, we must prioritize protecting what we've created."

All the elders nodded in agreement. Before Rarwan could say anything more, a knock interrupted them. A villager rushed in, reporting that two strangers and an infant had appeared through a gateway, bearing one of their pendants.

The elders immediately stood up, alarmed, and vanished from their seats, reappearing in the sky above the newcomers who were surrounded by curious villagers and excited children. As they observed the confused outsiders with narrowed eyes, Jassa appeared before the strangers, her expression icy and cold. She sensed a connection to the pendant in the stranger's hands, and upon closer inspection, recognition dawned in her eyes.

With a gentle wave of her hand, she released a subtle pressure that brought them to their knees. The woman clutched her infant protectively, her eyes meeting Jassa's with a mix of fear and determination.

"The pendant you carry - explain how you came to possess it," Jassa asked, her voice firm but not unkind.

"It... it was my father's," the woman managed between breaths.

"And who is your father?"

"Derin Mirov," she replied, and at those words, the pressure instantly lifted. The cold facade in Jassa's eyes melted away, replaced by recognition and warmth.

"Little Karena? Fatty Derin's daughter?" Jassa asked, helping her to her feet. Karena stunned at first but then nodded, tears welling in her eyes as she held her child closer.

"You are…Lady Jassa, right? Please," Karena's voice trembled, "my baby needs your help. My baby was plotted against in our land, his blood essence and talent taken and his special physique destroyed. It took everything for me and my maid to escape from those who harmed my son. When I returned home, my father spoke of the miraculous powers of your people. He said if anyone could help my son recover and properly heal, it would be you and your people." She looked up, in both awe at the display of power, and the aura emanating from them, recognizing that her father was right, about there being beings above the Unity rank here, at the assembled elders, her eyes pleading. "I know we're outsiders, but please, help my child. Please, I have nowhere else to turn."

Lira descended gracefully, her motherly instincts drawing her to the infant. Seeing this powerful elder, reaching out, though reluctant to part with her son, Karena gently gave her son to Lira. As she cradled him and scanned his body, her eyes widened. "This child..." she whispered, tears gathering. "The damage is extensive, but not beyond repair." She looked to her fellow elders. "The fact that she was able to activate the pendant proves her soul and plea are pure. We must take him to the Great Tree—the apostles' mercy can surely restore what was lost. They have always cared for our children."

Before Asdris could say anything in objection, Hadrin shook his head and nodded to Lira to proceed.

Seeing her husband's support she smile and directly flew towards the tree.

"You're certain, old chief?" Asdris asked quietly.

"I am," Hadrin replied, his eyes following his wife's distant figure. "While each generation grows more attuned to the Ki around here, Lira's connection to the Great Tree remains unique. Even though her time in the outside world changed her, making it so that she can no longer commune with the apostles in her dreams or approach the tree's base, she still can ventures closer than anyone before the tree's presence overwhelms her. The Tree's continued favor is clear." He gestured to the newcomers. "And consider the pendant's response - it speaks of hearts largely untainted by the outside world's darkness. We should trust both Lira's judgment and let nature take its course."

Asdris gave his old chief a wry smile and said, "You're starting to remind me more and more of Elder Bao."

The two men chuckled in reminiscence.

At her furthest approach to the Great Tree, Lira felt the familiar pressure that brought her to her knees. She wrapped the infant in her protective aura and settled into position. With practiced calm, she addressed the ancient presence: "Great Tree, Apostles, Lady Taliana, hear my plea. This child has been wronged, his essence stolen. Not for my sake, but for his future, I ask for your healing light to restore what was taken and guide his growth."

For a while, the tree's leaves only rustled in the breeze, but Lira's faith never wavered as she continued her heartfelt prayer. Soon, the branches above began to shimmer with a soft, ethereal glow that reached toward the child, causing him to stir and cry out. As the light enveloped him and a holy aura emanated from his small form, Lira smiled tenderly, first at the child and then at the tree. Though she knew her experiences in the outside world had tainted her heart, she felt joy that the apostles hadn't abandoned her and still answered her prayers.

Inside Orach's Inner Realm

"TALIANA!" A thunderous roar shook the realm of life, as Aeloria burst through a spatial portal in her majestic dragon form. The realm of life stretched before her, where seven fellow wardens had been acting as divine guides to the mortal village - a settlement that had formed near where Orach lay in his centuries-long recovery.

"Must you be so loud, Aelo?" Ysraza sighed, barely glancing up from her intricate engineering sketches - designs meant to guide the villagers' craftsmanship through divine dreams.

"By the realms, Aeloria, have mercy on my head," Durgnar groaned, massaging his temples. He was still recovering from his latest revelry in his domain, his role of imparting strategy and leadership wisdom to mortals temporarily forgotten in his discomfort.

The warrior trio - Ragnar, Reyan, and Abrandt - merely stepped aside with practiced ease, their hands covering their ears. They passed different techniques to the villagers. As masters of combat, they had learned when to pick their battles.

Taron, who taught the villagers about distant worlds and shared tales of stellar exploration while helping Taliana teach the primordial laws, fell backward clutching his head as he waited for the ringing in his head to fade.

"Aeloria," Taliana's voice was gentle but firm. "I know what brings you here, but please hear me out."

A deep growl rumbled through the realm.

"When you seven began guiding these mortals," Aeloria's dragon form loomed larger, "Para and I remained silent because we saw their pure hearts. But diverting Orach's healing essence to an outsider? He has lain here for three centuries in this lower realm, recovering. How can you risk his healing?"

"Listen, Aeloria," Taliana said firmly, "you're not the only one who loves him! Everyone here deeply loves and cares for that man. I would never risk his well-being. These past 300 years, I've maintained the ring of life without pause—you know this. He's nearly healed now and will wake soon. What harm is there in helping these faithful mortals? Especially when it's an innocent infant, Aeloria... an infant."

"Though I see your point, Tali," Aeloria's tone softened slightly, "we learned the price of direct intervention long ago. Orach's protection from beasts and our subtle guidance through knowledge—these were acceptable boundaries. But the dragon of life's power is not to be wielded lightly. Even you, as a warden, haven't fully grasped its power. What if, despite your pure intentions, the healing creates something unintended? What if Orach awakens only to find he must destroy what your mercy has created?"

Taliana fell silent, weighing Aeloria's words carefully. With a gentle wave of her hand, she redirected the healing energy back to Orach.

"Aeloria, you're concerns are valid," she acknowledged softly. "Though I've ended the healing, I still want to believe in this child as I do the children of this village. Perhaps fate has brought him here not just to receive aid, but to play a role in Orach's future journey. You know Orach hasn't told us everything about those visions he saw. Maybe these children can really transcend and one day help Orach in the upcoming conflicts."

"Then let us watch and wait," Aeloria replied as she created a portal to her realm. Her form settled into a more relaxed posture before she added, crossing through the threshold, "Time will reveal the truth of your intuition."

Man-folk Continent - Royal Palace - Crown Prince's Chamber

In the aftermath of Consort Karena's escape and the subsequent chaos that gripped the capital, the crown prince remained unconscious following a mysterious procedure. While the King raged in the throne room issuing commands to recover from the aftermath, something stirred within the prince's dormant mind.

'Where... am I? This darkness... wasn't I supposed to be dead?' a disembodied consciousness whispered into the void.

A soft blue light materialized before it, displaying an ethereal interface:

Compatible soul detected... Integration process beginning... Initializing Son flicker @p*s*1e flicker of Heaven flicker 0**_0*** flicker System

Welcome, chosen vessel. Your destiny awaits.

Do you accept this new path?

'Son of Heaven System? A second chance at life?' the soul contemplated before responding with quiet determination, 'Yes.'

Acknowledgment received. Beginning consciousness integration...

Awakening in: 10...9...7...5...2...1

A soft groan escaped the crown prince's lips, causing the attending maids to be startled. One quickly departed to inform the queen.

The prince's eyes fluttered open. "Where...?" he began, wincing as memories cascaded through his mind, bringing clarity to his situation.

The queen swept into the chamber, her face bright with relief. "My precious son, you're finally awake. Arcus, how do you feel?"

"I'm well, mother," he replied with a gentle smile. "I am your son after all."

Behind his courteous expression, his thoughts raced: 'The Son of Heaven System... HAHAHA. Not only am I born to royalty, but I am a son of heaven! I possess both status and power beyond mortal understanding in this life. With this, I will build my ideal life! HAHA None can stop me from living my best life. This realm, its mine!'

15 years later

The world had transformed dramatically in the decade and a half since that fateful day. Following the appearance of Unity rank experts, a power struggle erupted across the continents. The Beast Emperor, through rigorous traditional training, ascended to near Half-Step Unity rank. However, the Demon King, consumed by ambition and impatience, turned to forbidden arts.

Over three dark years, the Demon King conducted mass blood sacrifices, consuming the essence of countless souls - both from the remaining other races and his own demon-folk population. Through these atrocities, he achieved the coveted Unity rank. Not satisfied with this power alone, he led his armies north through treacherous storms, losing many soldiers before reaching the Beast-folk continent.

The clash between the Demon King and Beast Emperor was brief but decisive. The disparity in their cultivation - Unity realm versus Supreme realm - proved insurmountable even if the Supreme rank was extremely close to Half-Step Unity. After conquering the beast-folk empire, the Demon King's thirst for power led to more sacrifices, of the enslaved man-folk and beast-folk, elevating him to the mid Unity rank. Now he had found himself on a course to the Southern continent.

Meanwhile, on the man-folk continent, a different kind of transformation was taking place. The crown prince, after his mysterious awakening, began a calculated ascension to power. He won over the consorts, nobles, and even his distant father - the king who had once couldn't bear to look at him. A deep rift existed between his parents, with his mother, the queen, under palace arrest. When he sought answers, he was met with deflection or told to focus solely on becoming the next ruler.

Under the tutelage of the royal knight Arthrud together with the Royal Advisor whoe carried the title 'Master of Mana', and secretly aided by his System, the prince's power grew exponentially. By age twenty, he achieved the unprecedented feat of reaching Supreme rank, earning him titles like "Heaven's Blessing" and comparisons to the legendary Queen Angrit. The king, though occasionally haunted by thoughts of his lost newborn son, buried his guilt beneath pride in his kingdom's new powerhouse.

But power corrupted or perhaps finally revealed the true nature of this predator in royal clothing. The crown prince began using his status to indulge in increasingly dark desires, taking whatever - and whoever - he wanted even if it destroyed families, while his loyal followers, bound by ambition or fear, wove a web of lies to shield his depravity from the king's eyes.

Far from this web of power and corruption, on the Central continent, a different story unfolded. Karena, along with her maid Greta and her son - now named Rowan - found peace in their new life in the village. Free from the suffocating protocols of royal court, Karena watched her son grow strong under the Great Tree's blessing, grateful for the community that had welcomed them, though always aware of the elders' watchful eyes.

Life had a wondrous way of weaving joy into their simple existence. In the following days, young Darvik, the spirited teenage son of Elder Hadrin and Great Elder Lira, returned from outside training in the surrounding wild with his five friends and transformed their world. Smitten at first sight, he boldly declared his intention to court and marry Karena when he came of age—a moment that stirred old memories among the villagers. Elder Lira's mortified expression due to embarrassment, Elder Hadrin's deadpan stare at his impetuous son, and the other elders' hearty laughter became a cherished memory that still brought warmth to Karena's heart and chuckle every time she recalled it, especially after learning the old tale of Elder Lira's own passionate declaration of love to her now-husband and the relentless chase till she won his heart, in her youth.

Initially troubled and wary of the young man's attention and antics, Karena gradually found his sincerity endearing. As Rowan grew and became more protective of his mother, his clashes with Darvik became frequent. Though Karena worried about these confrontations, given Darvik's age, youthful pride and position as the son of respected elders, she soon discovered his true nature. Beneath his youthful exterior lay a heart that understood what mattered most to her. Darvik cleverly transformed their conflicts into teaching moments, playing the role of a mock villain threatening to steal Karena away. Though initially hesitant about this unconventional approach, Karena watched in amazement as it flourished. Rowan's determination to protect her fueled his training, and during their sparring sessions, Darvik seamlessly shifted from antagonist to mentor. In time, he became more than a suitor to Karena—he emerged as the father figure Rowan had never known, their playful rivalry masking a deep bond of mutual respect and care. In these precious moments, Karena found a happiness that surpassed anything she had known in her years at court—not just for herself, but for her son who was finally experiencing the guidance and love of a father figure. These moments also helped her overcome her reservations about their age difference and her past disappointments in love, gradually in recent years allowing her to accept his courting and advances.

Another significant change occurred silently. Beneath the Great Tree over these past 15 years, the crystal housing Orach had begun to lose its luster. A crack that appeared only grew with each passing year, and now the crystal was on the verge of crumbling. Noticing this, all wardens stopped communications and solely concentrated in helping Orach emerge.

Present Time - Alliance Continent

The Demon King emerged from a vast pool of blood, his form wreathed in an aura of dark power. "Finally... I have achieved the High Unity rank!" His voice, though barely above a whisper, carried the weight of countless sacrificed souls. The blood pool, created from the essence of man-folk, mer-folk, and beast-folk, rippled with residual energy from his ascension.

The conquest had been swift and brutal. When the demon-folk army first arrived on the Alliance Continent, they struck with devastating precision, overwhelming settlement after settlement. The Alliance forces had mounted a valiant defense even manipulating som of the monstrous beasts they could control to act as their weapons, but treachery sealed their fate. The demon-folk leadership of this continent, long harboring resentment against their fellow alliance members, revealed their true allegiance. This betrayal allowed the invading army to execute a perfect encirclement, transforming what might have been a fair battle into a horrific massacre not requiring the Demon King to make a move. The mountain of corpses that resulted fed the ritual that would elevate their king's power to unprecedented heights.

Yet even as the Demon King basked in his newfound strength, an unsettling sensation crept into his consciousness. A mysterious calling whispered of greater heights still unconquered, of power beyond even the High Unity rank. This realization cast a shadow over his triumph. More troubling still was the continued absence of his true targets, despite the trail of devastation he had carved across two continents. His lips curved into a cruel smile as a new plan formed. "If the rats won't come out of hiding," he addressed his generals, "then we'll continue burn down their havens one by one." He turned his gaze toward the horizon, where the next continent awaited. "Prepare the fleet. We sail for the lands with the highest concentration of man-folk. Let's give them a show they can't ignore."

Man-folk Continent

A week later the demon-folk army made land fall and struck with devastating precision, their warships darkening the horizon before descending upon the man-folk continent's coastal settlements. Within days, the first line of defense crumbled, leaving only ashes and silence in their wake. Messenger birds carried desperate warnings to the capital, their urgency matched by the streams of shell-shocked survivors who managed to escape the slaughter.

In the grand throne room, an emergency session of the royal court was underway. The massive strategic map at its center told a grim tale - red markers dotted the coastal regions like bloody wounds, each representing another fallen stronghold. The eastern and southern defensive lines had already collapsed, their forces scattered or annihilated. But it was the royal advisor's report that turned the atmosphere from grim to horrific.

"Your Majesty," the Royal Advisor, spoke with a trembling voice, "these demons aren't merely conquering. They're harvesting. Our scouts report massive pools of blood being created from their victims as if preparing for some kind of dark ritual." The king's face drained of color as the implications became clear. This wasn't a war for resources or territory - it was an extinction campaign against all man-folk.

In the heavy silence that followed, Crown Prince Arcus stood from his observation post. His System had been analyzing the enemy's movement patterns, revealing a potential weakness in their aggressive advance. Knowing that this would be a moment to shine and secure the life he had built he stepped forward. "We can use their momentum against them," he declared, his voice carrying the weight of calculated certainty. "Our biggest advantage is our knowledge of the terrain. The mountain passes offer natural bottlenecks. If we position our mana cannons strategically and draw their forces in with a convincing retreat, we can trigger avalanches that would decimate their numbers." His eyes met those of the proposed diversion force commanders. "The risk to our bait force will be extreme, but every hour we delay costs thousands more lives. We must act now."

Back on the central continent, Karena's heart ached with longing for her family. She approached Chief Rarwan with a request to journey to the outside world with her son. The chief's initial refusal stemmed from genuine concern - she had become cherished part of the village. But fate had other plans. That very day, Darvik and his friends returned from their training in the wilderness, and seeing Karena's dejected expression, the young man immediately sought to understand her troubles. Upon learning of her wish, Darvik saw an opportunity. He and his friends proposed to combine their advanced training journey with escorting Karena and Rowan for gaining experience. Though the Chief and elders saw through this transparent excuse, they couldn't help but smile at the youngsters' determination. With Jassa, a respected warrior, volunteering as an additional escort, they finally relented. In her joy, Karena impulsively kissed Darvik's cheek, leaving him stunned while his friends and family erupted in good-natured teasing.

Their journey began with Rowan knocked unconscious peacefully on Darvik's back as they boarded the ship. The last-minute addition of Lisvin, another Unity rank expert alongside Jassa, proved helpful as they navigated treacherous storms toward the man-folk continent. After a week at sea, they made landfall, only to be greeted by an overwhelming stench of death. The once-bustling coastal city lay in ruins, its streets eerily silent. While Karena and Greta's panic threatened to overwhelm them, Darvik's steady presence provided comfort. He calmly suggested they shouldn't waste time panicking rather focus their energy on reaching Egon to reunite with Karena's family, gathering intelligence about the situation along their journey.

With two Unity rank experts guiding them, they managed to avoid detection during their three-day journey to Egon. Though flight would have been faster, they chose stealth over speed to avoid enemy scouts. Upon reaching Egon, they found the city in a state of high alert, its gates sealed and walls manned by vigilant sentries. Lisvin's rudimentary understanding of space laws provided them safe passage inside, where they made their way to the Mirov Estate through secret passages known only to family. The emotional reunion with Karena's family briefly lifted the heavy atmosphere, especially when Jassa's boisterous greeting - "Fatty, long time no see!" - brought surprised laughter from Derin's children and an embarrassed cough from the man himself.

Later in his private study, Derin spread a detailed map across his desk, his expression grave. "The situation is dire," he began explaining the situation and then moved to detailing the latest intelligence from his spy network. Large convoys of equipment and troops were moving towards the mountain passes with the Crown prince Arcus himself leading the charge - a clear sign the capital was preparing for a major operation. More concerning was his report of the demon king's power. "During my covert reconnaissance of their stronghold, I sensed an aura that dwarfed even Jassa's. The demon king has definitely reached the Unity rank."

Karena's face darkened at the mention of the crown prince, memories of the day her son's talent was stolen still raw in her mind. Yet her bitterness was directed more at the child's mother than the boy himself. However, as Derin revealed the prince's recent atrocities, horror replaced her anger. The sweet child she once knew had become something monstrous. Darvik, seeing the tactical opportunity, suggested their group split and scout the mountain area to assess both the man-folk kingdom's and the demon army's true strength. While Karena, Greta, and sleeping Rowan remained at the estate under Jassa's protection, Lisvin led the reconnaissance team into the field.

The day of the ambush unfolded as Man-folk forces executed a masterful feint, drawing the demon army deep into the mountain pass with calculated retreats. When the enemy reached the kill zone, mana cannons concealed on both sides opened fire. The initial barrage caught the demons off-guard, but both battle-hardened and naturally adept in mana wielding, they quickly erected protective barriers. After four devastating volleys, the mana reserves depleted, forcing the man-folk warriors to engage in close combat.

Crown Prince Arcus led from the front, his enhanced abilities letting him unleash devastating attacks that kept even demon army at bay along side his men. For a moment, it seemed the tide might turn in their favor. Then a suffocating pressure descended upon the valley, an aura so powerful it brought hardened veterans on the man-folk front to their knees. Through the sudden mist appeared a terrifying figure - the demon king, his bat-like wings wreathed in black flames, flanked by four elite generals. Even Arcus felt fear grip his heart before his System stabilized his emotions.

The demon king's eyes narrowed with interest at Arcus's resistance. With a casual gesture, he dispatched his generals - one to test the prince's mettle, the others to slaughter his army. But before the massacre could begin, a thunderous shockwave split the air. Lisvin, who had been observing with his team, saw his opportunity. In a blur of motion, he crossed the battlefield and launched a devastating punch at the demon king.

The demon king caught the blow with one hand, the impact generating a sonic boom that echoed through the mountains. What followed was a deadly dance of power and skill. Lisvin's combat experience showed in every move—each strike precisely aimed at vital points, each dodge flowing seamlessly into a counter-attack. The demon king matched him blow for blow, his power leaving trails of corrupted mana in the air.

As they exchanged increasingly powerful techniques, Lisvin's mind worked overtime. The demon king's reactions grew faster, his attacks more precise—he was adapting, learning. When a particularly vicious exchange left Lisvin's right arm numb, he made his decision. With a series of hand signals to his allies below, he disengaged with a technique that kicked up a massive dust cloud. Using his rudimentary understanding of space laws, he transported the remaining man-folk army to Egon, draining his Ki reserves in the process. By the time the dust settled, the man-folk forces had vanished.

The demon king stood astonished at such methods, unable to trace his opponent's retreat. Yet a calculating smile soon crossed his face—he had achieved his goal. The Unity rank experts had revealed themselves, allowing him to measure their strength. Though they possessed abilities he'd never encountered, the exchange confirmed they weren't his equal in power. His resolve hardened; he would sacrifice more lives to grow stronger. The real war was just beginning.

Egon - The Aftermath

The sudden materialization of an entire army even in a battered state sent shockwaves through Egon's defenses. Warning bells pealed across the city as guards scrambled to battle stations. However, the tension dissolved when Derin and Jassa, along with the city's leading experts, recognized the exhausted figures of Lisvin and Darvik's group at the army's head. They quickly ordered the gates opened for the leadership while arranging temporary camps outside the walls for the rescued troops.

Within the Mirov estate's grand meeting hall, Lisvin's report cast a heavy shadow over the assembled experts. His battle with the demon king had revealed a chilling truth - while both stood at Unity rank, the demon king's power was evolving rapidly, pushing towards unprecedented heights. Darvik's group confirmed the fearsome strength of the demon generals, though they believed these could be countered. The real threat lay in their king's seemingly limitless growth. For many of the city's experts, this day brought multiple shocks - first learning they stood in the presence of two Unity rank masters, Lisvin and Jassa, then hearing of an enemy who could match and potentially exceed them.

The somber deliberations were interrupted by an approaching commotion. The double doors burst open with unnecessary force, revealing Crown Prince Arcus. His face was contorted with barely contained fury, his royal dignity wounded by what he perceived as a slight to his station.

"You dare make the future king of the man-folk empire wait?" he snarled, his voice echoing through the chamber. His eyes swept across the room before fixing on Lisvin with predatory interest. "A Unity rank expert among man-folk... I had thought such power mere legend. Perfect. By royal decree, you will serve under my command against the demon invasion. Refuse, and face charges of treason."

The room fell silent for a moment before Lisvin let out a quiet chuckle. "Young prince, you seem to misunderstand. We are indeed man-folk, but we hail from the Central Continent. Your authority ends at your kingdom's borders."

"Central Continent? Impossible! That's just a myth!" Arcus's face showed shock and then anger and reddened. "Besides as long as you are man-folk you must listen to me. All man-folk must—"

His words cut short as Darvik stepped forward, his aura radiating outwards and filling the room. "Must what, prince?" The temperature seemed to drop several degrees. "You speak of authority, yet you barge in here like a child throwing a tantrum. Your title holds no weight here."

"How dare you address me in such a manner, you lowly commoner!" Arcus's hand flew to his sword, enhanced muscles tensing for combat. But before he could draw, Darvik moved. To the observers, it appeared as if he simply walked past the prince. Yet Arcus found himself on one knee, his sword arm completely numb.

"Consider this a lesson in humility," Darvik said quietly. "Now leave, before we decide to give you a more thorough education."

The prince's face cycled through a storm of emotions—rage, fear, and finally cold acceptance. "You'll regret this," he snarled, his eyes hardening to ice as he rose and stormed out, his rigid posture betraying his wounded pride.

Karena watched him leave with a heavy heart, finally accepting that the prince's viewpoint and attitude were beyond redemption.

The others turned their attention to Darvik with interest, especially Derin, who had noticed the young man's closeness to his daughter. Jassa broke the tension with a clap, drawing everyone's focus, and suggested that two of Darvik's group return to their village in the Central Continent using their pendants to gather stronger reinforcements against the Demon King.

As the prince stormed away, his rage crystallized into cold calculation. With practiced thought, he summoned his System.

"System, appear!"

A shimmering blue interface materialized before his eyes, its ethereal glow casting strange shadows across his face.

At your command, Host.

"Display the world map. Full detail."

The projection expanded, revealing continents and oceans in stunning clarity. But what caught the prince's attention wasn't the familiar coastlines or mountain ranges - it was an anomalous void at the world's heart. A mass of pure darkness, defying the map's otherwise perfect detail.

"That void at the center... what is it? I always thought the world's heart was empty ocean."

That region is designated as a Forbidden Zone, Host.

"Forbidden? By whom? You're a System granted by the heavens themselves. What power could be great enough to forbid you anything?"

Analysis indicates presence of laws and powers predating current heaven's establishment. Unable to penetrate or analyze. Warning: Attempting to breach Forbidden Zone barriers may result in system failure or host death.

The prince's eyes narrowed, a dark smile playing across his lips. "So there are powers even the heavens fear... Interesting." His fingers traced the black void on the map. "When I came in contact with those trash, I was able to scan their talents. Their talents aren't nothing compared to my System enhanced talents. If those trash can get this powerful I can only imagine how powerful I can become if I can get access to that power. All right. No more holding back. System, tell me, about all the ways to become powerful quickly. I don't care even if its like those of the demon-folk, the ones that draw power from death itself."

Warning: Accessing forbidden cultivation methods. Such paths risks permanent spiritual corruption, mental degradation, and possible loss of humanity.

"Risks?" The prince laughed, a hollow sound devoid of warmth. "I don't care about the risks. Show me everything. Power is the only truth in this world even if I loose my humanity as long as I grow powerful who would dare stand against me. If those Central Continent fools think they can dismiss me, I'll show them true power - even if I have to sacrifice half my kingdom to achieve it."

The system's glow turned crimson as it began displaying ancient, forbidden techniques - each more horrific than the last. The prince's smile grew wider with each revelation, his humanity dimming as darkness took root in his heart.

"Perfect," he whispered, his voice carrying an otherworldly resonance. "Let them think me weak now. Soon, i'll pay their precious central continent a visit and grasp that power for my self. They'll understand true terror of a Son of heaven."

The aftermath of the mountain pass battle left both sides reeling. While the demon-folk gathered the dead from both sides, creating a massive blood pool to further empower their king, the man-folk retreated to their capital in disarray from Egon. A heavy silence hung over the throne room as the surviving soldiers filed in, their armor still bearing the marks of battle.

Crown Prince Arcus delivered his report, first speaking of the power of the generals and the overwhelming power of the demon king, then revealing the unexpected appearance of the Central Continent warriors. Initial hope sparked in the court's eyes at mention of such powerful allies, only to die when he described their dismissal of the kingdom's authority. The prince's recounting of his humiliation at their hands sent whispers of discontent rippling through the assembled nobles.

Some courtiers - longtime rivals of the prince - seized this opportunity. "Perhaps if Your Highness had shown more diplomacy," one suggested with mock concern, "these powerful warriors might have been more amenable to alliance." Soon some more nodded in agreement, their thinly veiled criticism making the prince's eyes grow colder with each word. Silently, he committed their faces to memory, anticipating the day he would make them pay for their insolence.

The king, seeing his kingdom teetering on the brink of destruction, made a difficult decision. "I shall journey to Egon myself," he announced, silencing the court. "If humbling myself before these warriors might save our people, then so be it." With his most trusted advisors and guards, he departed, leaving Prince Arcus as regent - unknowingly creating the perfect opportunity his son had been waiting for.

Prince Arcus wasted no time and sprang into action. With the king and Arthrud away, and only the mediocre Royal Advisor to oppose him, the time was perfect. Deep beneath the palace, in chambers untouched for centuries, his most trusted servants etched forbidden runes into stone. Through his network of loyal nobles, he orchestrated a steady flow of prisoners into the dungeons. But his true satisfaction came from personally "collecting" the court nobles who had dared mock him - along with their entire families.

As midnight descended, unholy screams echoed through the palace depths. The ritual circle pulsed with malevolent energy as it consumed the life force of his sacrifices - common criminals and noble-born alike. At its center stood Prince Arcus, eyes gleaming with ecstasy as unprecedented power coursed through his veins. What might have destroyed a lesser being was perfectly regulated by his System, propelling him far beyond Supreme rank into the realm of High Unity. The transformation was both magnificent and horrifying - his skin turned white, one eye transmuting to pitch black with a blood-red iris, his once-white hair, a signature of the royal bloodline, lengthened and darkened to midnight black.

"How curious," he mused, observing his new form. "The demon king sacrificed far more lives, yet achieved less. Why?" The System's response held a note of smug superiority: The difference lay not in the quantity of sacrifices, but in the efficiency of power absorption - a capability only it could provide.

But even this vast power wasn't enough. The forbidden zone in the Central Continent beckoned, promising might that even the heavens feared to touch. The Royal Advisor's desperate struggles proved futile as Arcus dragged him to the ritual chamber. The man's considerable power, accumulated over decades, provided the final push needed to breach the Heaven rank. As the advisor's essence was consumed, the System chimed with an unexpected reward - a gift that made the prince's twisted smile grow even wider. He had gained the ability to command the monstrous beasts themselves, creatures that had resisted all previous attempts at control.

The terrified servants who witnessed his transformation could no longer recognize their prince. Gone was the noble son of heaven they had served; in his place stood something far more terrible - a being that was both divine and demonic. But their horror meant nothing to Arcus. Taking to the skies, he began his journey to the Central Continent, his new power reaching out to every monstrous beast in his domain. Let them ravage the demon-folk armies and keep the demon king busy. While the Demon king was an irritant he could deal with later. The power that even heaven dared not touch awaited him, and nothing would stand in his way.

Meanwhile the king's arrival at Egon created an unexpected tension in the air. As he and Arthrud entered the grand hall, they froze at the sight of Karena - but it was the young boy beside her that truly captured their attention. The king's heart skipped a beat as he felt an unmistakable resonance in his blood. The boy's features, his bearing, the subtle aura that surrounded him - everything proclaimed his royal lineage. This was his son, the child Karena had taken away all those years ago.

Moving forward with paternal yearning, the king reached out - only to be driven to his knees by an overwhelming pressure. His entire entourage collapsed alongside him, gasping for breath. The source was Jassa, one of the Children of the Great Tree, whose power made even the air feel heavy. Only then did they notice Karena's cold stare, particularly directed at Arthrud, who felt death's cold fingers brush against his spine.

The Children of the Great Tree who remained to defend the city watched with barely contained hostility. They had embraced Karena, Greta, and young Rowan as their own, knowing their story of escape from royal persecution. Darvik, his love for Karena evident in every tense line of his body, leaned against the wall with crossed arms, visibly restraining himself from exacting violent revenge on behalf of the woman he loved.

Karena's voice cut through the tension like a blade. "Whatever we once were," she declared, meeting her former husband's eyes, "ended the day your Queen stole our son's talent and future, and your loyal dog defended her actions. If not for finding my present family, my son would likely have been crippled or dead." Then, in a move that left everyone stunned, she turned to Darvik and pulled him into a passionate kiss leaving Darvik stunned. The message was clear - she had found not just safety here, but love.

Young Rowan observed the scene with remarkable composure for his age. Though he recognized the kneeling man as his father, he felt no connection to him. His world was here, with his mother and, despite occasional irritation at sharing her attention, with Darvik as well. The man had earned both his mother's love and his own grudging affection.

Jassa and the others watched with amusement at Karena's bold declaration and actions, particularly at the silly grin plastered across Darvik's face after the kiss and at the embarrassed blush on Karena's face. His friends could barely contain their laughter. Derin, Karena's father, looked up and grumbled to himself, 'I knew it! That brat stole my daughter's heart!' Meanwhile, her mother and brother simply smiled, happy to see Karena had found joy at last.

A sharp clap cut through the emotional and jovial scene, drawing all eyes to Lisvin as he stepped forward. His interruption earned him a deadly glare from Jassa, but he remained unfazed. His voice carried both authority as he addressed the gathering.

"Now that Karena has made her position clear, we must address more pressing matters. While personal affairs have their place, an unprecedented crisis looms over us all," he declared, turning to face the king directly. "Your Majesty, I'll be frank—your kingdom stands at the precipice. The demon king grows stronger each day, devouring souls and territories to fuel his ascension. I have faced him in battle, so trust my words—while your forces might hold against the demon-folk army, they are, forgive my bluntness, utterly outmatched against the demon generals and the demon king himself."

The king's face flushed with shame, but he nodded grimly. "You speak truth, Lord Lisvin. That is why I came—to seek your help. This kingdom was born from a hope for the man-folk's brighter future, a dream that we would stand as equals with any race and never again be at another's mercy. Now the demon king's armies march across our lands, and alone, we cannot hope to stand against them. So I stand before you not just as a king but as a fellow man-folk—stand with us against this threat as one people."

Lisvin and Jassa exchanged meaningful glances as the others watched in stunned silence. Jassa lifted her aura's pressure, allowing the king and his party to rise to their feet. Lisvin stepped forward, "Then let us discuss terms of alliance—not as subjects to a crown, but as equals united against a common enemy. The Children of the Great Tree offer considerable advantages through our warriors and knowledge. Though the Demon King is formidable, we have experts in the central continent who surpass even his strength. We've already sent word home for their aid. Our task now is to endure until they arrive."

The king's party stood dumbfounded. While they knew of Lisvin and Jassa's Unity rank from the prince's report and had just felt Jassa's power firsthand, the revelation that the Central Continent harbored even mightier beings shattered their worldview. As this knowledge sank in, the room's atmosphere shifted from personal grievances to strategic deliberation.

While the man-folk debated their alliances, an unprecedented crisis struck the demon-folk armies. A relentless tide of beasts descended upon their stronghold with unnatural coordination, forcing even the mighty demon king to personally defend their position. As his forces struggled to maintain their defenses, suspicion gnawed at him - this was no random occurrence. Someone had gained control over these typically unruly creatures, but such a feat should have been impossible.

Meanwhile, through the treacherous seas that had claimed countless lives since the Great Divide, Prince Arcus carved his path toward the Central Continent. With the System's guidance and his newly acquired powers allowed him to navigate the lethal tempest with supernatural precision.

But he wasn't alone. From the dark depths of the ocean, ancient horrors stirred. Monstrous beasts that had lain dormant since the Great Divide now rose at his command, forming a grotesque honor guard around their new master. These leviathans, each capable of destroying entire fleets, followed the safe passage charted by the prince, their massive forms creating a nightmarish procession through the churning seas.

As the forbidden zone drew closer, Arcus's twisted smile grew wider. The power that even the heavens dared not touch awaited him, and with his army of abyssal horrors, the mighty warriors of the Central Continent would be able to stop his ascension.

As the dark clouds parted, the jagged cliffs of the Central Continent emerged through the mist, their ancient stone faces seeming to watch the approaching darkness with silent judgment. When Prince Arcus's feet touched the forbidden soil, an unnatural stillness fell over the land. Behind him, his monstrous escort breached the surface like living mountains, their colossal forms casting writhing shadows across the shoreline as they awaited his command.

With a cruel smile, Arcus raised up the map. However, the System's map flickered and distorted before crashing completely, triggering urgent warnings - a clear sign that even this blessing from heaven couldn't cope with the forbidden zone's energies. But Arcus paid no heed to the warnings. Instead, he reached out with his newfound powers, touching the minds of every beast and monster that lurked in the continent's depths.

His mental command echoed across the land: Hunt. Kill. Destroy. The beasts responded instantly, their primal instincts enhanced and twisted by his will making them forget the fear of the Great Tree. Massive shadows began moving through the forests, mountains, and valleys, all converging on a single point - the bustling village of the children of the Great Tree. The very earth seemed to tremble as ancient predators awoke from their slumber, drawn by an irresistible call to join the prince's army of beasts.

In the city itself, many felt the earth tremble beneath their feet as flocks of birds took flight in panic. Not long ago, they had received reports from two who returned from the man-folk continent, warning of the demon-folk invasion and the Demon King's terrifying power. In response, Great Elder Lira, Elder Mordaris, and Elder Kerin were dispatched to aid their allies, while Elder Hadrin, Elder Asdris, Elder Asdrin, and Elder Hadrick remained behind to guard their village—their home—in the central continent.

As the elders sensed the incoming beasts, they took to the skies with Hadrin leading the charge. His eyes narrowed at the creatures' unnatural aggression—beings that had always avoided them since the Great Tree's appearance. He deduced there was a puppet master behind this attack. As Hadrin and the elders gazed at the scene below, memories of the past flooded back. However, unlike their powerless past, the children of the Great Tree now stood ready to defend their haven. Warriors gathered along the walls and beneath the elders, their determination evident as they awaited the command to act.

Hadrin then addressed the assembled villagers,"My children, three centuries ago, before the Great Tree, our ancestors faced a crisis much like today. A beast king led vast hordes against our first village. Our walls were weak then, our weapons crude, our power but a fraction of what we wield today. Yet we stood tall against certain death, united in one hope—that our hidden children might survive to carry on our legacy. Many fell that day, until our god descended and saved us all. From his power rose the Great Tree, and under its blessing, we have flourished. Today, we carry not only our ancestors' dreams and hopes but also honor those who sacrificed everything so we might live to see this age. Now we stand tall, with the ability to face death not as prey but as warriors with the power to resist! So I ask you, descendants of those brave souls—will you let these beasts and their hidden master triumph? Will you allow them to desecrate our homes?"

"NEVER!" The battlecry erupted from thousands of throats, the sound so powerful it seemed to shake the very foundations of the earth. The warriors' resolve manifested in brilliant auras of energy that surrounded each fighter, their combined light creating a dome of pure power that rivaled the setting sun's radiance.

Elder Hadrin rose higher into the air, his white robes billowing as he gathered his Ki. Between his palms, a sphere of destructive energy formed, crackling with such intensity that the air itself began to distort. His voice, amplified by power, carried across the village: "Then let us show these beasts the true might of the Children of the Great Tree!"

The sphere in his hands expanded, its light casting long shadows across the assembled warriors below. With a movement both graceful and devastating, he thrust his arms forward, releasing the attack. The massive energy wave carved through the air. As it streaked toward the approaching horde, Elder Hadrin's command thundered: "WARRIORS OF THE GREAT TREE, ATTACK!"

The response was immediate and overwhelming. After the explosion from the Ki attack of Elder Hadrin, that took out a giant beast and it immediate surrounding low rank beasts, thousands of warriors launched themselves from the walls, their own battle auras blazing making full use of the opening Elder Hadrin had made.

From the walls, mid foundation realm expert archers loosed volleys of arrows enhanced by their cultivation, while some support early foundation realm experts channeled their Ki to form barrage of Ki blasts in tandem to support the warriors engaging the beasts from behind. Warriors engaged the beasts that made it through, their weapons and techniques displaying the fruits of generations of training.

Seeing flying beasts make their move, the manifestation realm experts took to the sky and started battling the beasts. However, seeing the bigger beasts ready their energy attacks, the Elders made their move. Elder Asdrin tapped into her inner realm to use her Ki and manipulate the air to create vortexes that pulled the giant flying beasts from the sky and made them crash into the beasts below with precision and avoiding their forces. Elder Asdris, tapped into his inner realm to use his Ki to summon lightning in his palm and when took flight he extended the lightning to create a whip, which twirled around and aimed it at many beasts and finished off two giant beasts as well.

Elder Hadrick, renowned for his mastery over earth-based abilities, raised his arms. The ground beneath the charging beasts erupted into spikes and chasms, breaking their momentum. Yet still they came, driven by some malevolent will that pushed them beyond their natural fears and limits.

From afar, observing the battle Arcus was shaken to see so many Heaven rank experts on this continent. He thanked his intelligence to break through to the heaven rank first before coming to the central continent. He commanded for the creatures from the deep ocean to hurl objects in the direction of the village as well, to ensure, the residents would be completely occupied as he made his way towards the village.

Through the chaos, Hadrin sensed a presence of immense power approaching. Prince Arcus emerged from the shadows, his bone-white skin and his red eye gave Hadrin an eerie feeling. The prince's eyes widened momentarily at the sight of a Heaven-rank expert detecting him, but his confidence remained unshaken.

"An early realm opening expert…So, you're the one controlling these beasts," Hadrin's voice thundered across the battlefield. His inner realm now active, her

Arcus smiled darkly, his System interface flickering with basic combat data. "And you are Elder Hadrin, I presume? Great now that introductions are over, could you move? I have to get my hands on the source of your power. So, move or, meet your end."

Hadrin's aura was now fully unleashed, hearing the words from Arcus, it was clear to him, that this man was here to harvest the power of the Great Tree. Even though he knew the Great Tree's aura would never allow this person to get near it, he would be ashamed and would die before he let anyone like this evil being get near his guardian protector. Golden light wrapped around him like a second skin, forming a formidable armor.

"Celestial Spear," Hadrin intoned, his voice carrying otherworldly weight as he brought his hands together and manipulated the primordial law of light. Space itself seemed to warp as he thrust his palm forward, unleashing a blast of pure golden energy that contained the weight of natural law searing anything in its wake.

"Negation" Shouted Arcus confident in his System given ability to negate any mana based attack at the beam of light. But in the next moment was startled hearing the System's message in his mind.

WARNING: Primordial law manipulation detected. Cannot be negated. Suggest host to use teleport

"Shit! Fine do it!" Arcus activated another System given teleporting ability to quickly doge the incoming beam of light heading his way teleporting him into near by location above Hadrin in the sky behind the clouds.

"What in the world was that? System why didn't negation work?"asked Arcus in in rage

Host negation works on attacks comprised of Mana not on attacks that use primordial laws.

"What are these primordial laws?" Arcus demanded of his System, but before he could receive an answer, a golden blur materialized before him. Hadrin's fist connected with devastating force, the impact creating a thunderous shockwave that sent Arcus hurtling through the sky like a meteor. The prince managed to stabilize himself hundreds of meters away, his enhanced body trembling with a sensation he hadn't felt in years - pain.

His System flashed another urgent warning, and Arcus instinctively threw himself sideways. A beam of concentrated golden energy carved through his previous position, the very air screaming as it was torn apart. The attack continued into the distance, cleaving through several clouds before dissipating. Arcus's enhanced vision caught the residual energy patterns - if that had connected, his defensive capabilities would have been overwhelmed.

"ENOUGH!" Arcus roared, his pride wounded and rage building. "I am the chosen of heaven itself! You dare make ME feel fear?" Dark mana swirled around him in violent torrents, condensing into pitch-black spheres that orbited his body. Each sphere pulsed with corrupt energy, warping the very air around it.

"Abyssal Arts: Thousand Shadow Spears!" Arcus thrust both hands forward, and the dark spheres exploded into countless jagged projectiles. Each spear twisted through impossible angles as they sought their target, leaving trails of corrupting dark mana in their wake. The attack filled the sky, turning day to night as they converged on Hadrin's position.

Hadrin seeing this, such a wide area of effect attack, became alarmed and quickly concentrated on erecting a barrier to protect not only himself but the village and its people behind him. A golden barrier appeared just in time protecting everyone in the vicinity of the village while the surroundings forest were devastated as each shadow spear rot all life upon contact. Even the beast who were struck by the attack were blown apart. Seeing the effect of those spears, Hadrin and the elders fighting elsewhere were alarmed and wanted to warn the others. However, before this attack even showed signs of letting up, Hardrin felt the temperature throughout the entire region rise up considerably. He immediately looked at his opponent and was shocked at the scene.

"Abyssal Arts: Hellfire Convergence!" Even as his first attack soared forth, Arcus's hands blurred through complex patterns. The temperature around him skyrocketed as circles of ancient runes materialized, each one spewing forth streams of black flames that burned with such intensity they consumed light itself. The hellfire merged with his shadow spears, creating an unholy fusion of destruction that turned day into perpetual night.

Seeing this, Hadrin put forth more Ki into strengthening his barrier giving it his all. Upon contact, the collision of the shadow spears with hellfire boost and Hadrin's Ki barrier was catastrophic. Shadow spears and hellfire crashed against the golden barrier in endless waves. Each impact sent shockwaves across the landscape, shattering rocks and uprooting trees. Hadrin grunted with effort, pouring more Ki into his barrier, but Arcus was relentless. The prince's attacks grew stronger with each passing moment, the corrupting dark mana beginning to eat away at the barrier's outer layer creating cracks.

Sensing weakness in the barrier, System suggested Arcus suddenly to change tactics. "Teleport" he snarled, his form blurring as he teleported directly where Hadrin's barrier showed weakness. "Abyssal arts: Dark Fist!" Dark mana condensed around his arms, forming gauntlets of pure destructive energy. Before Hadrin could reinforce his defenses, Arcus struck. His enhanced fist crashed through the weakened part of the barrier, connecting with Hadrin's shoulder with bone-crushing force, at the same time the barrier shattered.

The elder was sent spinning through the air, blood spraying from his shattered shoulder. But Arcus wasn't finished. Using his System's suggestions, he appeared wherever Hadrin tried to stabilize, each blow more devastating than the last. His attacks became a blur of dark energy and physical might, each strike targeting a different vital point with surgical precision.

Hadrin's body was brutally pummeled, his white robes turning crimson with blood. Yet still he fought, desperately trying to maintain find an opening, even as Arcus's relentless assault continued. The prince's laughter echoed across the battlefield, a sound of pure malevolent joy as he systematically broke down this powerful elder's spirit.

"Hadrin!" Asdrin on witnessing her old chief in dire state, murmured worriedly. Having just dispatched another beast, she seized her moment to join the fray. Drawing upon her mastery over primordial wind elements, she reached into the very essence of the air itself. The atmospheric particles around her began to vibrate and compress, forming visible currents that spiraled and condensed into an ethereal blade seemingly distorting the space around it.

Appearing behind Arcus in a burst of speed, she channeled her Ki through the condensed air currents, causing them to resonate at their peak frequency. The wind blade, now destructive, slashed through the space where Arcus stood. Though he sensed another Heaven rank expert's presence and turned to defend, the concentrated force of nature proved too swift. The blade of compressed air struck true, the impact releasing a thunderous boom as Arcus was sent hurtling through the sky and even cut off his right arm making him scream in pain.

"You wretched woman—my arm!" Arcus's scream of rage echoed across the battlefield, blood pouring from his severed shoulder. His remaining hand clutched at the wound while dark energy crackled around the stump.

Asdrin paid no heed to his fury. With a sharp glance at Hadrin, she commanded, "Hadrin, fall back and recover your strength." Her Ki flowed outward, causing the very air to shimmer and dance as she compressed atmospheric particles into deadly currents. She launched herself toward Arcus with lethal grace, but a familiar presence joined her assault.

Her brother Asdris appeared at her side, his eyes crackling with power. Without a word between them - none was needed after centuries of fighting together - he raised his hands skyward. Dark clouds materialized instantly, heavy with electric potential. As Asdris channeled the natural lightning through his body, he wove it perfectly into his sister's compressed wind currents. The result was devastating - a howling tempest of electrified air that screamed toward their target with enough force to level mountains.

But Arcus, despite his grievous wound, proved why he was truly dangerous. His face contorted with malicious calculation as he suddenly changed direction, using his teleport ability to arrive by a group of villagers who had strayed beyond the main defensive barriers. Dark energy writhed around his remaining arm like hungry serpents. "If I can't heal normally," he snarled, his remaining arm crackling with dark energy, "your life force will have to do! Blame your elders! They forced my hand."

AARGGHHH!

While the attack of the elder, created a loud impact that drowned the screams, it didn't take long for the screams of the dying villagers to be heard by the elders, who were shocked and enraged on seeing their people die by the hands of this beast in man-folk skin.

"You dare!"Roared Asdrin and Asdris as they charged towards Arcus who after driaining the life force of many, recovered his energy and regrew his lost arm and then the battle began anew with even the Hadrin later joining in.

Within Orach's Inner Realm—Dragon Domain of Life

"What kind of power is that? It feels... off," murmured Ragnar as he observed the battle outside.

"No clue. But it doesn't belong to this world. Abyssal Arts, was it? Such power shouldn't exist here," said Reyan as he narrowed his eyes, searching through centuries of battle knowledge for anything similar.

"Whatever it is, that source of power repulses me. Even my Dragon of Life is reacting, agitated and yearning to attack it," said Taliana as she observed the battle.

"Though they fight valiantly, this opponent is tricky. He wields such abilities, yet I sense no primordial law usage at all. How is he doing that?" murmured Taron.

"The abilities aren't what concern me. Have you noticed his fighting style? His movements have become eerily precise. At first, they were sloppy and untrained, but now... Either he's a natural prodigy like Orach, or someone—or something—is guiding him," saidYsrazaas she narrowed her eyes.

"Many of our children have died... this cannot continue," murmured Taliana, her eyes turning cold.

She turned toward Orach's inner world and shouted, "ORACH! PLEASE WAKE UP! THESE CHILDREN NEED YOU! I NEED YOU!" Responding to its warden's desire, the realm of life released a mighty roar.

Startled, the other wardens understood Tali's intent and joined in.

"WAKE UP, YOU BIG LUG!" shouted Ysraza.

"Lad, it's time for action! Wake up!" shouted Durgnar.

"Young master, wake up!" shouted Ragnar.

"Orach! The battle calls, old friend! Wake up!" shouted Reyan.

"Young master, please wake up! This lower realm needs you!" shouted Abrandt.

"Mate, we need you, WAKE UP!" shouted Taron.

Responding to their wardens' desires, all seven dragon domains roared as one, shaking Orach's inner realm with such force that even the two remaining dragon domains resonated and joined the chorus.

Inside Orach's inner world, Para emerged through a ripple in space, passing the golden statues of Orach's family as she approached his consciousness, still deep in meditation before the white tree.

Placing her hand on Orach's shoulder, she spoke gently, "Young master, it's time for you to wake up."

At her touch, Orach's closed eyes finally stirred.

CRACK

Outside, the crystal housing Orach—its luster long since faded and covered in years of cracks—finally shattered, revealing his sleeping base form. And then, at last, his eyes opened.