As I slurped on my noodles at the town's renowned noodle shop, I found myself immersed in the savory flavors, oblivious to the world around me. However, that moment of bliss was abruptly interrupted by a peculiar sound, a faint "ping." I glanced around, but everything appeared normal. Shrugging it off, I resumed my culinary indulgence. Exiting the shop, I returned home to the comforting aroma of my mother's cooking. Sophia, with her graceful demeanor, was busy preparing fried chicken as I entered the kitchen. Regretting my earlier noodle escapade, I couldn't help but think that I'd prefer her cooking over any other. "There you are; here, have some chicken," she offered warmly. I declined, much to her surprise. Her disappointment was palpable, prompting me to quickly apologize and offer a hug. "Sorry, Mom," I said earnestly. "It's okay, not your fault. I should have told you earlier," she replied, her mood lifting as I kissed her cheek before darting upstairs. "That little... when w
"Wait a minute, you're telling me that binding the System will help me with training and cultivation?" I inquired, seeking more clarity. "Yes, that is correct," the System affirmed, its mechanical voice unwavering. "Anyway, how did you select me out of the billions of people in the world right now?" "Because you are 100% compatible with the System and considered a rare human throughout the Universe," it responded matter-of-factly. "Damn, that's crazy," I exclaimed, still trying to wrap my head around the idea. I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The concept of being chosen by a cosmic entity for some grand purpose was overwhelming. Curiosity fueled my next question: "System, how were you made? What's your origin?" The System hesitated before responding, creating a moment of suspense. "The System was made by the Creator Of Everything, The One Who Ascended, The One Who is Above All, The One Who Created the Multiverse." Goosebumps covered my skin. "Creator
The morning light filtered through my bedroom window, casting a soft glow on the familiar surroundings. Yet, despite the peaceful ambiance, my mind was consumed with a relentless headache, a lingering reminder of the tumultuous events that had transpired the night before. As I gingerly rose from my bed, the weight of impending decisions bore down on me. The System binding awaited a pivotal moment that would irrevocably alter the course of my life. With determination coursing through my veins, I resolved to seek out a secluded location for the ritual—a place where I could undergo the transformation without fear of interruption. However, my strict parents posed a formidable obstacle. Aware that every move of mine was scrutinized, I concocted a plan to escape their watchful eyes. The evening unfolded, and as the night draped the world in shadows, I seized the opportunity to approach my mother with a carefully crafted ruse. Dressed impeccably and feigning urgency, I informed her, "Hey,
The room fell into an eerie silence after my daring escape from the abandoned construction site. As I caught my breath, I directed my attention back to the System interface, eager to explore the possibilities that lay within its enigmatic features."Is this everything the System offers?" I inquired, my curiosity unabated."Yes, if you want to access more System features, you will have to level up to Master rank cultivation," the System responded matter-of-factly."Master rank cultivation? Can you explain all the cultivation ranks to me?" I queried, realizing I had much to learn about the intricacies of this newfound power."The Cultivation ranks of this world are divided into 9 stages: Mortal, Master, Martial Art Master, Grandmaster, Energy Condensation, Martial Core, God Rank 1, God Rank 2, God Rank 3," the System explained.I was taken aback by the complexity of the cultivation hierarchy. "So many levels, but I thought only four levels existed based on my novel reading experience.""
Ping!Ping! As the familiar sound of pings echoed in my room, I jolted awake from a peaceful slumber. The Supernatural Divine Godly Power System had assigned me daily tasks that promised rewards upon completion. "100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 burpees, 10km runs," I muttered to myself, my jaw dropping at the daunting challenge laid out before me. But what caught my attention was the promise of rewards upon completion—a tantalizing incentive that sparked a fire within me. "To help the host cultivate and upgrade levels, host is given an Ultimate God Level Technique: 'Void Devouring Arts'," the System's message continued, sending a surge of exhilaration coursing through my veins. An Ultimate God-Level Technique? My mind reeled at the possibilities, and a mischievous grin spread across my face as I envisioned the untold power at my fingertips. Excitement surged through me, manifesting in a moment of villainous laughter—albeit a poorly executed one. After completing my physical regimen
I couldn't believe my luck—another skill, another level of power bestowed upon me by the enigmatic System. Grinning with a mix of excitement and gratitude, I expressed my appreciation, "Well, thank you, System. You're great, my man." Eager to explore my newfound skill, I delved into the information regarding "Dragon Abomination." The skill revealed itself in five progressive levels, each more potent than the last. The initial stage, "Dragon Roar," caught my attention—it immobilized enemies while its damage output scaled with the user's cultivation. Yet, a lingering challenge presented itself: I could only learn subsequent levels, like "Claw of Destruction," after reaching Master level cultivation. The prospect of such growth fueled my determination, setting a clear path for my ascension. As I lay in bed, basking in the euphoria of acquiring the Dragon Abomination skill, my phone rang, interrupting my thoughts. With a mixture of excitement and nervousness, I answered the call to find
The mysterious man in the black robe continued to speak, his words cryptic and filled with concern. "Your affinity with the divine is amazing," he declared, his gaze penetrating through the layers of my confusion. "I don't know what you're talking about," I replied, a furrow forming on my brow. "You don't need to know anything now, just cultivate and increase your strength until Grandmaster. Once they know about the Divine Entanglement, you will make a lot of enemies," the man warned with a sense of urgency. "What are you talking about, and what is Divine Entanglement?" I pressed, seeking answers. However, the black-robed man remained silent, disappearing from his spot without offering any further explanation. I scanned the surroundings, attempting to locate him, but he was gone. The encounter left me with more questions than answers, and a sense of unease lingered. Shaking off the encounter, I proceeded to the Golden Leaf hotel, where the class reunion party awaited. As I arrived
As we sat enjoying the reunion, our laughter and chatter abruptly halted as the door to our private room burst open, revealing a burly man who strode in with an air of authority. His presence cast a shadow over the room, and unease rippled through the group. "Leave the room immediately, our boss needs it right now," he barked, his voice commanding attention. Harvey, visibly irritated by the intrusion, stood up to confront the man. "What the hell do you want? I booked this room, which means it's mine. So piss off," he retorted, his tone laced with anger. The burly man's eyes swept over the group, lingering on Mia with unsettling intensity. "Oh, so you're the one who booked this room. You seem to have quite the collection with you. The girl beside you looks sexy. Lend her to the boss for a day, and he may leave you alone," he sneered, his words dripping with menace. Mia's expression shifted from shock to horror, and Harvey's anger flared, his face turning red with rage. "What the fuc
The hooded figure’s tone was dripping with malice as he slowly advanced on Danial, his crimson aura flaring with every step."You made a mistake, boy. I was offering a painless way to die, but you didn’t appreciate my mercy. Be assured, you will die—but I’ll make sure you beg for it first."Danial didn’t respond, his mind racing as he desperately tried to formulate an escape plan. The hooded figure exuded the power of a Master Level Cultivator—a whole stage above Danial’s abilities. The disparity was immense, and Danial knew it. Running would be futile unless he could create a miracle.The figure chuckled as if reading Danial’s thoughts. “Don’t waste your energy,” he said, his tone mocking. “You won’t escape me.”Danial clenched his fists, his breathing steady despite the rising panic in his chest. Realizing there was no other option, he decided to take the offensive. If he was going down, he’d make sure to leave a mark. He activated his Iron Fist Technique, his arms glowing with a br
Danial’s mind raced as the hooded figure’s words echoed in his ears. “Fine meal? What does that mean?” A chill ran down his spine. There was no time to dwell on fear. His gaze shifted to Kuro, slumped and barely conscious, and a surge of determination coursed through him. No matter what, I’m getting us out of here.He glanced at Crystal and made a subtle hand gesture, signaling her to prepare. She caught his movement, her eyes widening in surprise, but she quickly composed herself. Taking a deep breath, she began circulating her internal energy, her frosty aura intensifying as she prepared for whatever was to come.Danial turned back to the hooded man, mustering every ounce of courage he had. His voice trembled slightly, but he managed to ask, “W-what do you mean? And who are you?”The hooded figure tilted his head, his hidden gaze boring into Danial. “You are not qualified to know,” he said, his voice low and dismissive. Without further ado, he raised his hand, which began to glow a
Santigo leaned back in his chair, the flickering light casting long shadows across the room. His smile stretched wider, full of mockery and malice, as his gaze shifted lazily between Danial, Pavan, and Crystal. "Took you long enough," he drawled, tapping his fingers on the armrest. "I was almost about to start another session with Kuro, but you arrived on time. Tsk tsk, what a pity."Danial’s eyes darted to Kuro, his chest tightening at the sight of his friend slumped over, bruised and barely conscious. Rage bubbled beneath his calm exterior, his fists clenching so tightly that his nails dug into his palms. He knew what "session" meant—and judging by Kuro’s state, it was far worse than he’d imagined.Gritting his teeth, Danial stepped forward, his fists clenching at his sides. “What do you want from us, Santigo?” His voice was low but edged with anger. “We’ve never crossed paths. We have nothing to do with you. So why drag Kuro into this?”Santigo waved his hand dismissively as if bru
The trio made their way through the desolate industrial district, their steps echoing faintly against the cracked asphalt and rusted pipes that sprawled across the ground. The Lapanzo Foundry loomed in the distance—a massive husk of steel and concrete, its faded name barely visible on the old factory’s rust-eaten board. Broken windows and gaping holes in the walls stared back at them like the hollow eyes of a corpse, and the air was heavy with a metallic tang mixed with an unexplainable decay that clung to their senses.There were no birds, no stray dogs, not even insects. The silence was unnatural, almost suffocating. Each breath they took felt too loud as if the factory itself might hear them.Pavan looked around, his face pale and his voice just above a whisper. "Yeah, this is the place where I’m going to die."Danial shot him a sideways glare. "No one is going to die." His voice was steady, but his jaw was clenched.Ahead, the board with “Lapanzo” scrawled in faded letters jutted
Danial sat on the edge of the bed, his fingers interlocked and his face stoic, though his mind churned with conflicting thoughts. Pavan, pacing back and forth like a caged animal, threw his arms up in frustration. "Danial!" Pavan snapped, his voice rising. "Are you even listening to me? How can you sit there so calmly when Kuro’s life is on the line? And Crystal—she’s a target too!" Danial finally looked up, his eyes sharp and cold. "Calm? Do I look calm to you, Pavan? I’m just not panicking like you are. If we lose focus now, Kuro’s as good as dead. And if Crystal gets caught in this... it’ll be worse." Pavan stopped pacing, running a hand through his hair. "Then tell me, what’s the plan? What are we doing? Because I can’t just stand here waiting for them to kill Kuro." Danial leaned back, exhaling deeply. "We can’t afford to act recklessly. Whoever this is, they’re not some common thug. They know Kuro’s strength, and they still managed to take him down. That tells me this is pers
Santigo paced around Kuro, his leather boots thudding against the cold, damp concrete floor. The dim overhead light flickered sporadically, casting ominous shadows across the room. The sharp edges of Santigo's features seemed exaggerated in the erratic glow, giving him an almost predatory appearance."Ah, cousin," Santigo drawled, his tone mockingly sweet as he circled Kuro. You look so pitifully tied up like this. I must say, it suits you—a star brought down to earth, groveling in the dirt."Kuro's wrists were bound tightly behind his back, and his legs were shackled to the chair he was forced to sit on. His clothes were torn, and his breath was ragged, but his eyes burned with a fiery defiance that refused to be extinguished.Santigo crouched down to meet Kuro’s glare, his grotesque grin widening. "Tell me, cousin," he whispered, his voice laced with venom, "how does it feel to have the tables turned for once? To be... insignificant?"Kuro’s chest heaved, his breath shallow but stead
Pavan’s hands shook uncontrollably as he processed the words he had just heard. His friend’s life was hanging by a thread, and the weight of the situation bore down heavily on him. His normally composed demeanor was in tatters, replaced by fear and anxiety.Danial, though visibly calmer, felt a storm brewing within. His sharp mind worked through the possibilities, piecing together how this could have happened. Kuro is strong, far stronger than most people realize. For someone to have captured him, this isn’t just about strength—it’s planning, manipulation… or something far worse.Pavan’s voice broke through Danial’s thoughts. “D-Danial, we can’t handle this on our own. We need to go to the authorities, to someone who can—”Danial interrupted, his tone firm but low. “We can’t.” His eyes locked onto Pavan’s. “You heard him. If we go to the authorities, Kuro’s life is the first thing he’ll take.”Pavan clenched his fists, frustration, and helplessness written all over his face. “But… wha
The emissaries from Emsgate couldn’t hide their broad smiles as Tanya descended the arena steps. Their demeanor was almost triumphant, as though Tanya’s victory over Viktor was a personal affront to Somerland. Tanya, however, walked with a quiet pride, ignoring the subtle gloating. Behind her, the terrain of the arena shifted and morphed back to its original flat state, the transformation accompanied by a low rumble.Viktor, meanwhile, trudged down the steps on the opposite side, his head hung low. The sting of defeat gnawed at him, and the weight of representing Somerland felt heavier with each step. In his heart, he felt as though he had disgraced his homeland.Waiting for him near the entrance was his master, a tall man with graying hair. The master’s sharp eyes softened as Viktor approached, clearly burdened. Placing a hand on Viktor’s shoulder, he spoke firmly yet kindly:“Viktor, just because you lost does not mean you failed to prove your worth. Your worth is measured by how ha
Elyisa put her hand into the ballot and took out two folded paper slips. She unfolded the slips with an air of authority. “Tanya from Emsgate and Viktor from Somerland,” she announced, her voice echoing throughout the stadium. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the audience as she reached into the twist and terrain ballot. Unfurling the next slip, she declared, “They will be fighting in a mountainous area. They will have to complete the fight in under four minutes, or both participants will be disqualified.”The crowd erupted in a cacophony of cheers and startled whispers.“Four minutes? Is that even enough time for a proper fight in such rugged terrain?” one spectator exclaimed.“And they’ll both be disqualified if no winner emerges? That’s brutal,” another muttered, shaking their head.The tension was palpable as Tanya, seated among the participants, felt a pang of nervousness grip her chest. Her hands balled into fists on her lap as she stared at the giant screen displaying her name