.The yacht surged across the ocean with breathtaking speed, cutting through the water with an elegant, almost effortless grace. The waves seemed to part in deference to its rapid advance, and the sun shimmered off the sea, creating a sparkling trail behind the vessel. The scene was idyllic, serene, and seemingly perfect until Jacky’s sharp eyes detected a looming structure ahead. It wasn’t a traditional wall, but rather an immense energy pillar that soared majestically into the sky and plunged deep into the ocean’s depths. The sheer scale of this pillar was awe inspiring, creating a stark demarcation between the familiar world and the unknown. It appeared to slice through reality itself, extending infinitely in all directions, as though it were a giant, invisible blade that separated two realms. "Liam, we're here!" Jacky called out from the upper deck, his voice carrying over the gentle hum of the yacht’s engines as he maneuvered the vessel toward the formidable energy wall. Moment
The he sky of the danger zone is painted in hues of twilight, casting a warm, golden light over the scene. enveloped in the bustling vibrancy of the approaching city. The road is paved with ancient cobblestones, worn smooth by countless journeys, and lined with towering lampposts that flicker with a soft, ethereal glow, the lamppost had miniature fairy like creatures they called elementals. Ahead, the city's impressive dual gates come into view. The larger gate, designed for carriages, is an imposing structure of reinforced steel and intricately carved stone, adorned with scenes of legendary battles and mythical creatures. Its arches are wide enough to accommodate the grandest of carriages, with blessed guards in ornate armor standing vigilant at each side. The gate's metalwork shimmers in the fading light, reflecting the city’s grandeur and hinting at the opulence that lies beyond. Next to the grand gate, a smaller, simpler gate is reserved for pedestrians. This gate is framed with
The interior of the city had streets paved with smooth, iridescent stones that shimmered in the sunlight, casting a kaleidoscope of colors underfoot. These thoroughfares wound and weaved like rivers through the city, connecting districts that each had their own unique charm. Overhead, elegant wooden bridges spanned across small artificial lakes, each bridge seemingly more elaborate than the last, as if the city planners had decided that practicality should always come with a side of extravagance.The bustling marketplaces were a feast for the senses. Stalls brimming with exotic goods from across the realm lined the streets, their canopies a patchwork of vibrant fabrics that fluttered in the gentle breeze. The air was thick with the mingling scents of spices, fresh bread, and blooming flowers, while the sounds of merchants haggling and street performers entertaining the crowds created a lively, chaotic symphony. This was the culture Jacky was referring to, the very essence of the city'
The moment Liam and Hybris stepped inside the Techon artifact store, they were greeted by the soft glow of enchanted lanterns hanging from the ceiling, their light reflecting off intricate brass and crystal fixtures. The walls were lined with dark mahogany shelves, each one meticulously organized to display a plethora of magical items.In one corner, a polished glass case housed an array of shimmering jewels and amulets, their surfaces glinting with an inner light. Each piece seemed to whisper secrets of unique powers.Another shelf was dedicated to an assortment of curious, arcane tools and enchanted weapons, including daggers with runes etched into their blades and staves topped with glowing orbs. The weapons all had one similarity though, their core functions were powered by spirit cores.A faint, pleasant aroma of aged parchment and exotic spices lingered in the air, likely emanating from the section of rare tomes and scrolls. These were carefully rolled and tied with silk ribbons
Jacky moved with the crowd for a short while before he fluidly left the pack, seamlessly blending into the shadows of a deserted alleyway. The narrow passageway was dimly lit, with flickering streetlights casting erratic shadows on the worn brick walls. As Jacky approached a particularly nondescript section of the wall, he took a deep breath. His mouth opened slightly, and words that would sound like gibberish to an average human flowed from his lips, each syllable resonating with an otherworldly cadence. The brick wall shimmered for a moment, the rough texture of the bricks seeming to ripple like water. Jacky didn’t hesitate; he kept on walking, passing through the wall as if it were made of mist. On the other side, a familiar sight greeted him. A hidden tavern, its warm glow contrasting sharply with the cold, dark alley he had just left behind. This time, the tavern was slightly more populated than before. Jacky's keen eyes quickly scanned the room, noting groups of adventurer
Hybris wasn't silent because she was terrified. In fact, it was the exact opposite. Her little crimson face puffed up, and her cheeks reddened. "She's so cool," she thought to herself. "Alright, I believe you," Mia Emberlyn said a moment later. "Really? Honestly, I won't blame you if you don't. It's kinda crazy," Liam said with a smile. She had known Liam since he was a toddler and had practically raised him alongside Mrs. O'Neil. "The least I can do is look out for him when she's not around," Mia thought."We live in a world where humans dare to aspire to replace the gods themselves. I'm sure at least half of what you said is true. And by the way, what's with that floating elemental? She's kinda starting to creep me out," Mia said, pointing at the heavily breathing and drooling Hybris."I think that means she likes you. I don't really know. She's some kind of primordial insect guardian entity or something like that," Liam tried to piece together what Hybris was supposed to be.
Hybris's eyes widened in astonishment as she took in Liam's new gear. The long crimson coat was undoubtedly of the highest quality, and it fit Liam perfectly, accentuating his lean frame. He raised the red collar, adding an extra touch of dashing style to his appearance.The coat wasn't purely red; it was adorned with patches of black that added a striking contrast. This design further enhanced the overall look, making the white shirt underneath stand out even more. The combination of colors and the impeccable fit gave Liam the perfect appearance of a stray swordsman.Hybris flashed to Liam's side."How do we know the gear works?". She asked curiously."Not sure, but we can try one method". Liam said hesitantly."Oh, what method is that?". Liam didn’t say, he simply walked to Mia Emberlyn with a forced smile on he's face, "Thank you for the gear aunt Mia". The moment Liam closed he's mouth, Hybris felt the room grow cold.Mia Emberlyn stood poised, her dark eyes locked onto Liam with
"What's the point of being the hegemon if I don't get to do whatever the hell I want?" Liam muttered, but just loud enough for Hybris to hear him. Hybris didn't respond; she couldn't. She's always been the one pestering him to be more like the hegemon, and now that he's stepping forward? To think I am trying to stop him from being what he's meant to be. Hybris stepped aside. The hegemon shouldn't back down from anything, he follows his will without fault, regardless of what the consequences might be. "I said, how much for the demihuman? Don't make me repeat myself," Liam said coldly, his blood red aura painting the environment crimson. The passerbys didn't know what was happening, but the pressure from Liam was way too daunting to ignore. "Dammit, the bastard is a divine true named county blessed," the man thought to himself, fear beginning to creep its way up his chest. "But so fucking what? Newhaven is a major city, and there's a country level blessed guarding this city. What e