Chen Wu limped away from the river, his body still feeling tired, but his heart full of turmoil. The dark energy that had been flowing within him felt like fire that burned every wound, both powerful and terrifying. The whispered voice was still ringing in his mind, echoing in the emptiness he had felt.
"Your blood is the key. You don't belong to them, Chen Wu. You belong to something much bigger." Chen Wu gritted his teeth, trying to ignore the voice, but he knew something had changed. He is no longer the child who was continuously beaten and scolded without fighting back. He felt a different power, a power he didn't understand but was thrilling. The night sky looked dark, the stars seemed to fade behind the black mist. The air around the forest felt heavier than usual, like there was something lurking in the darkness. Chen Wu stopped in his tracks, his breath ragged. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice loud even though he felt like he was speaking to a void. "Are you the one who gave me that power?" There was no answer, only the cold wind blowing around him. but just as Chen Wu was about to continue walking, the voice returned, clearer this time, like someone was standing right behind him. "I am your legacy, Chen Wu. I am your blood. I am the ruler that has long been dormant within you." Chen Wu turned around quickly, his eyes narrowed through the darkness. But all he saw was his own reflection, standing among the towering trees. But the shadow felt different—bigger, scarier, with glowing red eyes staring back at him. "What do you mean?" Chen Wu asked, even though he felt himself starting to understand. "That power... where did it come from?" The shadow grinned, although his face was vague. "You will find out in time. But to unlock all this, you have to survive. You must become stronger, beyond anything you could ever imagine." Chen Wu frowned. “I can't even feel the energy. How can I become strong?” The shadow was silent for a moment, then said in a deep, almost commanding tone. "You don't need energy like theirs. Their energy is small and fragile compared to what is within you. You are the inheritor of true power, power that can only be awakened through pain and destruction." Chen Wu fell silent. Those words were like spears piercing into his heart. All this time, pain was the only thing he knew. If it was true that power was born from suffering, then he had gone through more than enough to awaken it. "Then," he said quietly, his eyes shining with determination, "I will accept that power. I will become stronger, not for them, but for myself… and for mother." The shadow smiled, then slowly faded away, leaving Chen Wu alone in the middle of the silent forest. but even though the image disappeared, something remained inside him. The dark aura now felt one with his blood, like an old friend returning. Chen Wu continued his steps, walking a path full of thorns. In the distance, at the top of the dark valley, a low voice could be heard coming from the direction of the forbidden valley—where his mother had been confined for years. The voice sounded like a wail, but also like a call. “Mother…” Chen Wu mumbled, his gaze looking far away at the valley. "Wait for me. I will set you free.” The next morning, the atmosphere in the Tianlong Clan was different. The students whispered about the events of the previous night. Lu Feng and his friends had not returned from the forest, and rumors began to spread that something terrible had happened to them. “He said Chen Wu…” whispered a disciple. “He beat them all up. Some say he uses black magic.” "Impossible!" said another. “Chen Wu is trash. How could he have such strength?” Amidst the whispers, Chen Wu stepped into the main courtyard. His body was still covered in wounds, but he walked straight. There was no smile on his face, just a strange calm. The disciples' gazes immediately fell on him. Some stepped back in fear, others looked at him in surprise. An elder standing in the corner of the courtyard approached him. His face was full of anger, but there was a flash of fear in his eyes. “Chen Wu,” said the elder, his voice firm, “what happened in the forest last night? Lu Feng and his friends came back seriously injured. Were you the one who did it?” Chen Wu looked at the elder, his eyes cold. "They attacked me first," he answered calmly. “I was just defending myself.” The elder fell silent, not knowing what to say. There was something in Chen Wu's eyes that made him hesitate to press the child any further. "It's not over yet, Chen Wu," the elder said finally. "The clan will not let an incident like this pass by." Chen Wu just nodded slightly, then walked away without saying anything else. However, in his heart, he knew that this was the start of something big. The Tianlong clan would soon realize that the “trash” they had been scorning had changed. And the world they know will never be the same again.Chen Wu returned to his small cottage located on the outskirts of the Tianlong Clan compound, a place that was more worthy of being called a warehouse than a home. The wooden walls were fragile, and the roof always leaked when it rained. In this place he lived 15 years of his life, a life full of humiliation and suffering. However, that night felt different. Chen Wu stared at his reflection in the puddle outside the hut. It was no longer the face of a weak child that he saw, but rather someone whose eyes radiated something new—strength, anger, and determination. “All this… what exactly happened to me?” he muttered. He opened his palms, and immediately felt the dark energy rekindle in his blood. The energy felt cold, but at the same time, electrifying. It was as if there was a great power hidden within him, waiting to be released. but before Chen Wu could ponder any further, a loud knock sounded on his cottage door. “Chen Wu! Open the door!” The voice belonged to Elder Lei, one of
That morning, Chen Wu stood at the edge of the valley that separated the clan territory from the dungeon where his mother was locked up. The valley was called the Valley of Darkness, a place that even the elders rarely went to. Thick mist covers every corner, and legend says that the valley is inhabited by bloodthirsty creatures. However, Chen Wu didn't care. He clutched tightly to the only thing he had from his mother—a small circle-shaped necklace with a black stone in the middle. “If I want to know the truth,” Chen Wu muttered to himself, “I have to go there.” But before he could take the first step, a voice from behind stopped him. "Chen Wu!" He turned around and found a girl standing in the distance. The girl's face glistened in the morning light, with long flowing black hair. She was Mei Lin, one of the few disciples in the Tianlong Clan who had never insulted Chen Wu. "Where are you going?" She asked, his voice full of concern. Chen Wu did not answer immediately. He knew
Chen Wu and Mei Lin walked out of the cave with heavy steps. The air in the valley felt colder, as if the world had changed after their encounter with the black-scaled creature. But for Chen Wu, things were different now. The energy he felt in his body now felt much stronger, like a fast river flowing through his veins. “You… are different,” Mei Lin whispered, looking at Chen Wu with confused and amazed eyes. “Your eyes, your aura… everything changes.” Chen Wu just stared at his own hands, where remnants of dark energy were still swirling, barely visible. “I don't know how to explain this, Mei Lin,” he said quietly. “But something has awakened inside me. And I think this is just the beginning of something big.” Mei Lin was about to answer, but a roar from the direction of the cave stopped them. They turned around and saw that the cave door was starting to close by itself. Massive rocks collapsed, sealing the place back in eternal darkness. “We can't go back,” Mei Lin said, her voi
The next day, Chen Wu woke up earlier than usual. The sun had just penetrated the eastern sky, giving the valley below the Tianlong Clan a golden color. He stood in the training yard, staring silently at the stone circle that students used to practice martial arts and energy control. “Chen Wu,” Elder Yuan's voice broke the silence. Chen Wu turned his head. Elder Yuan stood behind him, accompanied by Mei Lin. The old man's face was serious, but there was a flash of determination in his eyes. “Your training will begin now,” said Elder Yuan. “But this is no ordinary training. You will have a blood test." "Blood test?" Chen Wu repeated, his brows furrowed. Elder Yuan nodded. “To control the power within you, you must understand the blood that flows in your veins. But understanding it is not an easy thing. This test will take you to your physical, mental and spiritual limits. Many fail, even die.” Mei Lin was shocked. “Elder Yuan, isn't that too dangerous? he just found out about his
While Chen Wu was training under Elder Yuan's tutelage, outside the Tianlong Clan, a dark plan was being prepared by someone he never expected. Zhao Long, the leader of a rival clan who has long harbored a grudge against the Tianlong Clan, sits in his private chamber decorated with ancient symbols of his clan. In front of a long table covered in maps and scrolls, a guard stood alert. "So, he passed the blood test?" Zhao Long asked in a low but threatening voice. The bodyguard nodded. "Yes, Mr. Zhao. Chen Wu successfully passed the test and now seems to have mastered the power within him. Very great power." Zhao Long turned his chair around, his sharp eyes staring at the map of the Tianlong Clan territory spread out on the table. "Great power?" He laughed softly, his tone calculating. "Such power is very dangerous, but also very easy to use for our purposes." The bodyguard looked confused. "What do you mean sir?" Zhao Long pointed his finger at the center point of the map, where
The days after Chen Wu's blood test passed with increasing tension. The once powerful and respected Tianlong Clan began to falter. Divisions were starting to become apparent within the clan, and they were all rooted in one thing: Chen Wu. Starting from whispers spread among students and clan leaders, news about his mother, who was said to have royal blood and ties to the royal family, began to attract the attention of many parties. However, the news circulating is much darker and points to a much deeper hidden conspiracy. .Some claim that his mother was a deserter who betrayed the clan, while others think that Chen Wu's blood may have a power that should not be in the hands of ordinary people. Within the clan's main hall, an awkward and tense atmosphere was palpable. several elders had gathered to discuss the fate of the Tianlong Clan under the approaching threat. Some were worried that Chen Wu's new power would threaten their standing, while others felt that the clan's future shoul
A dark night enveloped the Tianlong Clan. The tension that had been pent up for so long finally exploded. Outside, the sound of footsteps began to be heard, and the shadows of the enemy troops began to cover the area around the Tianlong Clan headquarters. Their clan was now on the verge of destruction. Chen Wu stood on top of the watchtower, looking out over the vast land, feeling the vibrations of the battle that was just around the corner. His heart was in turmoil. This fight is not just to defend his clan, but to protect himself and his mother—as well as to prove that he is more than just the son of a caged woman. "Are we ready?" Mei Lin's worried voice sounded behind him, breaking the silence. Chen Wu turned his head, his eyes full of determination. "We have no choice left," he answered, his voice loud and firm. "This clan will be destroyed if we don't act now." In the great hall, the clan leaders had gathered, preparing for the great battle that was just around the corner. El
Swoosh! Clang! Bomb! The sound of explosions and weapons clinking filled the night. The Tianlong Clan was on the verge of collapse. Flames blazed everywhere, illuminating the scattered ruins. The dark sky was filled with smoke and dust, adding to the tense atmosphere in the middle of the battle. Chen Wu fell on the ground, his body covered in wounds. His hands and feet were shaking from exhaustion. Every breath felt heavy, as if his lungs could no longer hold any more air. In front of him, enemies continued to arrive, their weapons glinting under the flames. He wanted to get up, wanted to fight, but his body was too weak. The energy he had been trying to generate still didn't respond. Even in this chaos, old scornful voices from the past echoed in his head, reminding him that he was useless trash. "Chen Wu!" a gentle but firm voice woke him from his trance. Mei Lin, the girl who had always been by his side, ran towards him. His brown eyes were shining, filled with worry. I
After several items had been auctioned, the atmosphere in the Purple Star Pavilion grew increasingly tense. When the auctioneer returned to the podium, he smiled mysteriously, signaling that the next item was something extraordinary.“Ladies and gentlemen, the next item is one of the most anticipated of the evening—Moon Spirit Flower Elixir! This elixir is renowned for its ability to rapidly and significantly enhance cultivation levels. However, it can only be used once in a lifetime, as its effects diminish drastically after the first use. Starting bid: forty thousand gold coins!”The crowd erupted into a commotion. Many cultivators began whispering and exchanging competitive glances. This was no ordinary item; it was a treasure capable of altering one’s cultivation path entirely.Chen Wu, seated at the back of the hall, sharpened his focus. He knew this was an opportunity he couldn’t afford to miss, even if it meant facing intense competition.“Fifty thousand!” a man in the front ro
Night had fallen when Chen Wu entered the Purple Star Pavilion, a grand building bathed in a soft purple glow that captivated every gaze. The auction hall was filled with cultivators from various regions—some exuding intimidating auras, others appearing as wealthy merchants eager to acquire rare treasures.Chen Wu chose a seat near the back of the hall, far enough not to draw attention but close enough to observe the items on display. On the stage, a dignified auctioneer stood ready to commence the event.After several items were auctioned, the atmosphere grew tense as the auctioneer announced:"Next, the Green Sky Herb! This plant possesses the ability to purify spiritual energy and accelerate the recovery of internal injuries. Extremely rare, it can only be found in remote mountains rich in spiritual energy. Starting bid: twenty thousand gold coins!"Chen Wu's eyes lit up. This herb was one of the things he sought—not only for its remarkable benefits but also because it aligned with
After overcoming the final trial, the dense fog that had obscured Chen Wu and Li Feng's vision began to dissipate. The oppressive atmosphere of the Black Mist Mountains was gradually replaced by a view of clear skies and fresh air, offering a newfound sense of freedom.Chen Wu walked forward with steady steps, followed by Li Feng, who appeared calmer but visibly exhausted. Ahead of them, a rocky path led to an open plain, and in the distance, a thick forest marked the edge of the Black Mist Mountains."We made it," Li Feng said, his voice filled with relief.Chen Wu nodded. "Yes, we’re finally out."Li Feng looked at Chen Wu, his eyes showing deep respect. "I’ve learned so much from you, Chen Wu. You’re not just strong, but also wise. Thank you for helping me."Chen Wu gave a faint smile. "You’ve shown remarkable courage, Li Feng. You’re no longer the person you were when we first met."They paused briefly at the edge of the Black Mist Mountains. Li Feng turned to Chen Wu with a serio
Chen Wu and Li Feng continued their journey through the dense mist, which now seemed to conceal something sinister. Faint noises—perhaps the rustling of wind or distant footsteps—trailed them from afar. Yet Chen Wu remained calm, though his vigilance never wavered.“Do you feel like we’re being watched?” Li Feng whispered, his voice trembling.Chen Wu gave a small nod without turning. “Since we left the Mist Treasure Chamber, I’ve sensed something strange. Be ready for anything.”Li Feng tightened his grip on the small dagger in his hand.Suddenly, the mist ahead churned, as if alive and moving with its own will. Emerging from the fog was a tall figure radiating a suppressive aura. As the figure became clearer, Chen Wu saw that it was an elderly man with long, silver-white hair and sharp, hawk-like eyes.The man wore a black robe adorned with golden mist patterns. In his hand, he held a staff that shimmered with ancient symbols. His energy was so overwhelming that the air around him f
After leaving the Mist Treasure Chamber, Chen Wu and Li Feng made their way back into the forest, which now felt more foreboding. The dense mist that usually hung around them seemed to radiate an air of stillness, as if acknowledging that something monumental had occurred.Chen Wu, now feeling a new energy coursing through his body, walked calmly. Yet his mind lingered on the words spoken in the Mist Treasure Chamber: “True treasures are not merely found, but must also be protected.”Li Feng broke the silence, his voice tinged with awe. “Chen Wu, what exactly happened back there? You seem… different now.”Chen Wu turned to him with a faint smile. “I’m not entirely sure, but I feel like something within me has changed. Maybe the energy from that orb has strengthened me.”Li Feng nodded, though his confusion lingered. “I don’t know what you experienced, but one thing’s clear—you’re much stronger than me. If not for your bravery, I’d already be dead here.”Chen Wu lightly patted Li Feng’
The mist thickened around them as Chen Wu and Li Feng ventured deeper, following the map inscribed on the ancient scroll they had just acquired. Every step grew heavier, as if the very air resisted their progress. Yet, beneath the exhaustion, a burning determination blazed within Chen Wu. The scroll had become a new guide, leading them toward something far greater than the blue crystal or the altar guardian.“Chen Wu,” Li Feng finally broke the heavy silence that surrounded them. “What do you think the Mist Treasure Chamber really is?”Chen Wu furrowed his brows, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. “I don’t know for sure. But if it’s guarded so fiercely, there must be something extraordinary inside.”Li Feng nodded slowly, though a lingering doubt gnawed at his heart. “But… if we find it, do you think we’ll make it out of here alive?”Chen Wu turned to him with a faint yet resolute smile. “We’ve come this far. I won’t let anything stop us now.”They pressed on, passing through towering
Chen Wu and Li Feng trudged away from the Mist Altar, with the blue crystal clutched tightly in Chen Wu's hand. Though exhausted, the determination in his eyes burned unwaveringly. Their steps faltered as a deep rumbling echoed through the mist behind them."Chen Wu, what's happening now?" Li Feng asked, panic lacing his voice, his dagger already in hand.Chen Wu turned toward the source of the sound, his expression hardening. "It seems we’re not done here yet."From the dense fog emerged a colossal figure. A massive stone statue with glowing blue eyes loomed before them. The statue depicted a muscular man wielding a giant spear etched with ancient runes. Its presence exuded an overwhelming aura that made the air around them heavier.“The Guardian of the Altar…” Li Feng murmured, his face paling. “They say these guardians only awaken when something is taken that shouldn’t be.”Chen Wu tightened his grip on the blue crystal. “So this is the crystal’s doing.”The statue began to move, i
Meanwhile, Li Feng struggled against the two remaining cultivators. Despite his fear, he fought back with his dagger, relying on evasive maneuvers. However, a powerful strike sent him crashing to the ground, coughing up blood and barely clinging to consciousness.“Li Feng!” Chen Wu called out, glancing toward him.The brief distraction gave his opponents an opening. One of the poisoned blades slashed his arm, forcing Chen Wu to retreat and create some distance. A sharp sting began spreading, but he gritted his teeth, staying focused.The woman in the purple robe smirked with satisfaction. “You’re finally struggling. If only you had surrendered earlier, none of this would have been necessary.”Chen Wu ignored her taunts, taking a deep breath as he summoned his spiritual energy. Activating a technique his master had taught him—the Absolute Shadow Blade Strike—his sword’s aura thickened, radiating an overwhelming pressure that froze his opponents momentarily.In one swift motion, he unle
Chen Wu and Li Feng ventured deeper into the Black Mist Mountains after successfully obtaining the Earth Spirit Flower. The mist grew thicker, and the spiritual energy around them felt increasingly heavy. Li Feng tried to keep his steps steady, but fear still lingered in his heart."Chen Wu, do you think we'll be attacked again?" Li Feng asked, his voice tinged with unease.Chen Wu glanced at him briefly while remaining alert. "Most likely. But don't worry too much. Just focus on your surroundings and be ready to fight at any moment."Li Feng nodded, though he wasn't entirely reassured. However, he knew that Chen Wu was the only reason he was still alive.After hours of walking, they arrived at an open area. In the center stood an ancient altar covered with intricate carvings. A powerful aura emanated from the altar, as if it were protecting something precious."What is that?" Li Feng muttered, his eyes wide.Chen Wu carefully examined the altar. At its center hovered a dark blue crys