How to build a Sect?

[Pind_Ala]

The day of the grand event finally arrived.

The streets surrounding the Iron Core Gym had been closed off for the past five days to ensure construction proceeded without a hitch. Early this morning, they were finally reopened.

From that moment until mere minutes before the competition officially began, the swelling crowd outside refused to disperse. Because the makeshift arena could only safely accommodate a thousand people, and the spectator entry fee was set at a steep ten coppers per person, a restless sea of citizens remained outside, desperately craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the spectacle.

One thousand people at ten coppers each... that is one hundred silver coins just from the door! Zani thought, practically weeping tears of joy as his perpetual financial anxieties evaporated.

To maximize his profits, Zani had utilized all his disciples and the newly partnered hunters as security guards. His reasoning sounded generous enough on the surface: they would work in rotating shifts, allowing two of the three groups to watch the tournament while the remaining group guarded the perimeter.

The heavy iron gates were groaning shut, with only a handful of spectator seats remaining when three figures clad in unassuming robes brazenly cut the line. Without a single word, they casually tossed silver coins to anyone who parted ways for them, smoothly securing their entry.

"So domineering!"

"Who were they?"

"I got a silver too, Mommy!"

The crowd watched in awe as the mysterious trio crossed the threshold, completely ignoring the towering Bai stationed at the gate.

Before long, the lingering crowd outside could only sigh in disappointment as Bai turned around and pushed the heavy iron gates firmly shut.

Inside the gym, the transformation was breathtaking. A grand stage spanning almost two thousand square feet sat squarely in the center of the courtyard.

Surrounding it, the seating area was arranged like an ancient colosseum, entirely constructed from wood. There was only one main opening leading from the iron gates for the audience to enter. Everything else, including the towering perimeter walls, was heavily shadowed beneath the elevated wooden bleachers.

Because the entire grandstand was hollow and supported only by thick wooden beams, the space beneath it formed a perfect hidden network for staff to move around unseen. Bai, acting as the primary guard, stepped into the shadows beneath the bleachers under the guise of encouraging the disciples on duty. A few moments later, a small girl wearing a silk veil quietly slipped from those same shadows and made her way toward the stage.

Meanwhile, on the stage, a bulky man with a thick beard proudly walked to the center.

"Ahem. Can everyone hear me?!"

Village Chief Sythe's voice boomed across the entire makeshift stadium. Upon learning that Mayor Salam was serving as a primary judge, and that the announcer would inherently be granted tasting privileges, Sythe had shamelessly begged Zani for the role.

"Welcome, everyone, to this momentous occasion! My name is Sythe, and it is my pleasure to host you all!"

He swept his arm grandly as he announced the prize pool. "The victor of today's grueling trial will not only walk away with a mountain of silver and a live Mud Boar piglet, but they shall also be crowned with the title: The Best Chef of Grains City!"

The audience erupted into deafening cheers.

"Now, bow your heads and welcome our esteemed Judges!" Sythe roared over the noise. "First, the organizer of this grand tournament, Master Zani! Next, the ruler of our Grains City, Mayor Salam! And lastly, a VIP guest personally invited by the Mayor, the owner of the legendary Roast Boar Restaurant in Slaughter City... Master Roasty!"

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

Thunderous applause shook the stadium. Zani himself clapped politely along with the roaring crowd.

Today was Zani's first time meeting Mayor Salam face-to-face. The Mayor carried himself with quiet dignity, yet treated Zani with remarkable humility and respect. The calculated display effectively elevated the young gym master's standing in the eyes of the gathered citizens.

Furthermore, the Mayor had called in a few political favors to invite Roasty, a culinary giant from Slaughter City, a region renowned across the empire for its premium Mud Boar cuisine.

"Now, let us welcome the brave souls who dare to step up to the chopping board!" Sythe announced loudly.

Soon, exactly two hundred and fifty-two contestants stood nervously upon the massive wooden stage.

The group was a chaotic mix of renowned restaurant chefs, humble street-stall owners, and ordinary housewives. Because a grand event like this had never been held in the history of the region, many had signed up purely to be part of the spectacle. In fact, a full third of the participants had traveled from outside the city borders just to compete.

"Please move to your assigned seats! We will randomly draw numbers to form groups of twelve. From each group, only two shall advance!"

The strict elimination process rested entirely in the hands of the three judges. However, any excess food prepared in bulk was generously distributed among the roaring audience, giving them something to taste and keeping the crowd's energy at a fever pitch.

There was, however, one glaring exception to the strict tasting rules. Chief Sythe, taking full advantage of his position as announcer, shamelessly secured a hefty sample of every passing dish. And then there were two other cheeky girls: Elisi and the veiled Leo, who had stealthily slipped into the seats beside Zani.

For the preliminaries, the screening was incredibly brutal.

Proving one's culinary skill in a single bite was a terrifying challenge. This was especially true since many of the participants had never experienced fast-paced, high-pressure cooking before. Combined with the strict time restrictions and the ruthless reality of the judges only taking a single bite to form their verdict, shocking upsets occurred constantly.

Several highly reputed, arrogant city chefs crashed out in the very first round, while completely ordinary people managed to advance through sheer passion and raw flavor.

"This format of yours is quite impressive, Master Zani," Roasty commented, taking a delicate sip of tea at the judges' table.

"When the Mayor first informed me about a cooking event in this rural city, I was absolutely certain it would be a humiliating flop that would ruin my palate. But now? I dare say this is the most entertaining spectacle I have ever been part of. Hehehe."

Roasty was, in reality, a remarkably straightforward man. He openly praised the flavors he liked, but his culinary criticisms were utterly ruthless.

He outright spat out the dishes of arrogant, renowned chefs, mercilessly tearing apart their lack of foundational skills in front of the entire crowd. Yet, in a stark contrast that revealed his true character, he would force himself to swallow the poorly cooked, bland dishes made by trembling housewives. To them, he offered gentle smiles, encouraging them to hone their craft and try harder next time.

The grueling competition raged on for hours. Thankfully, with the First Autumn month just beginning, a crisp breeze swept through the open stadium, keeping the midday heat from ruining the delicate ingredients or exhausting the sweating chefs.

By the time the sky bled into deep shades of purple, the final trial was underway.

Only five finalists remained on the grand stage. Unlike the preliminary rounds where ingredients were freely chosen, the finals featured a strict, mandatory main ingredient: Mud Boar meat. Mayor Salam had specially purchased and preserved this high-grade meat during his recent trip to Slaughter City to ensure maximum fairness.

"Look at them go, people!" Chief Sythe shouted, having completely embraced his role as the ultimate hype-man.

"Oh! I see Mister Sty has already completed his prep work! He is currently melting a rich block of Muu-beast butter in his pan!"

"Sniff, sniff... Heavens, what is that aroma? I smell omelets! Is Lady Tassy truly attempting to pair rich Mud Boar meat with eggs?!"

"And look over there!" Sythe pointed dramatically across the stage. "Our dark horse, Julian! Why is he viciously stabbing that meat with an iron skewer?!"

All five finalists were completely in the zone. Their hands moved with blurring speed, their foreheads slick with sweat as the blazing stoves cast dancing shadows across their faces.

"I can't wait to taste it..." Elisi mumbled, practically drooling as she stared intently at the sizzling pans.

"Right?" Leo hummed in agreement from behind her veil.

As the child of a prominent Immortal lineage, there were very few true delicacies in the world that Leo had not already tasted. Yet, eating here, surrounded by the roaring, chaotic crowd and sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with her best friend, made the anticipation incredibly sweet.

Hearing their rumbling stomachs, Zani could only shake his head with a faint smile.

During the brief intermission before the finals, the two gluttons had actually run off to lift iron and burn calories, deliberately emptying their stomachs so they could stuff themselves even more afterward.

Meanwhile, high above the chaotic cheering, seated in the absolute highest row near the towering outer wall, the group of three figures clad in unassuming robes sat in perfect, chilling silence.

Their sharp eyes never once left the stage.



____________________________________

For those who are curious, they were using kerosene for cooking.

 

[Pind_Ala]

[Additional Question: A plot twist is waiting ahead. Can you guess what it could be.]

[Options]
[A. Nagar appears]
[B. Immortal appears]
[C. Mayor finds truth]
[D. A high ranking official appears]

 

[manuelhwang99]

(who tf is nagar lol)

After every tempering session, if the practitioner soaks in a medicinal cauldron the tempering speed will increase.

Click to shrink...

Peerless Dad is that you

 

[Pind_Ala]

"My child..."

High above the roaring crowd, in the highest row near the towering outer wall, three figures clad in unassuming robes sat shrouded in shadows. They blended perfectly into the darkness, having remained motionless since the early morning.

Only now did one of them finally speak. The voice belonged to a woman, trembling heavily with emotion.

"Sniff... sniff... To think our Little Leo has finally found a true friend," the woman murmured, overcome with maternal emotion as she watched the veiled girl near the judges' table laughing brightly.

"Keep your voice down," the largest shadow beside her hissed, his rugged voice naturally carrying an air of authority. "What if she senses our presence?"

Despite issuing a perfectly practical warning, the rugged man instantly felt a terrifying, freezing glare pierce through the woman's cloak. He immediately coughed dryly and changed the subject.

"Anyway... did you notice?"

"Hmm? Notice what?" the woman asked. Not wanting to sully her rare good mood, she humored him.

Suddenly, the smallest shadow between them spoke up. "Father, are you talking about those armed men in the crowd harboring malice? Should I eliminate them secretly?"

"Ah. That too. Just ensure you leave no traces," the rugged man replied casually.

The small shadow gave a brief nod. Without disturbing so much as a ripple of air, he vanished from his seat.

"Anyway, I was talking about Little Leo's cultivation," the man continued, refocusing on his wife.

"Huh?" The woman instantly became alert. "Tell me, you stinky man. What did you notice? Is something wrong with her?"

The Patriarch hurriedly waved his hands to clear the misunderstanding. "No, no! I was just observing that our Little Leo has already perfectly established her physical foundation and officially stepped into the Skin Tempering Stage."

"Truly?!" The woman was overjoyed. Because they were seated too far away, and could not use their Spiritual Sense lest they alert Leo, she had not been able to closely inspect her daughter's aura.

Suddenly, her eyes narrowed dangerously. "Wait a minute. What do you mean our Little Leo? She is my Little Leo! If you ever dare to try and take her away from me..."

The warning in the air became thick and deadly. The rugged man could only hurriedly avert his gaze, sweating beneath his hood.

A mere moment later, the small shadow reappeared seamlessly between them, as if he had never left. "Father, Mother. I have sent them to the yellow springs. It is done."

"Good," the man nodded. With all possible threats to his daughter quietly erased, he finally voiced his lingering worry. "What I meant to say earlier... is that Leo is not using any of the manuals you gave her."

"What? Then what manual is she using?"

"I do not know. It is something entirely new," the Patriarch muttered, his thick brows furrowing beneath his hood. "Structurally, it appears to be of a high grade, as it tempers the entire body evenly without leaving a single blind spot. But in terms of internal density... it is the weakest, most pathetic thing I have ever seen in my life."

He was terrified that his precious daughter was practicing a crippled technique that would destabilize her foundation in the long run.

The hilarious reality was that he had absolutely no idea his genius daughter had only practiced the first stage of a Top-Grade manual!

"Should we intervene?" the Patriarch asked hesitantly.

"No. Don't even think about it," the woman firmly rejected the idea. "I promised Little Leo I wouldn't interfere with her travels, much less reveal her location to you buffoons."

However, after watching her daughter for a while longer, even she could not hide a trace of helpless worry. "We will let her play for now. We can ask her about it when she returns home for the New Year. At worst, we will simply feed her a Foundation Cleansing Pill and rebuild her foundation from scratch."

"Understood."

Having settled the matter, the three figures quieted down again, happily watching Little Leo enthusiastically eat the presented food and whisper her opinions to Zani.

Down on the stage, however, the competition had reached its climax.

"Only a single minute remains! Everyone has presented their dish except for our dark horse, Julian!" Chief Sythe roared, successfully hyping the audience into a frenzy.

Unlike the preliminary rounds, where he had roamed the stage, the Chief was now seated comfortably at the end of the judges' table, shamelessly stuffing his face while describing the flavors to the drooling crowd. "Will Julian be disqualified?! No! He pulls his iron pan from the fire at the very last second!"

After a while, it was time for the three judges to announce the victor.

"Sty, I favored your roasted meat the most," Mayor Salam said, delivering his dignified review. "The sauce you created possessed an excellent, rich flavor."

Zani nodded in agreement before offering his own assessment. The roasted dish was indeed good.

"I agree with Mayor Salam's assessment of your technique," Roasty added, crossing his arms. "However, I have tasted roasted meat so often that it leaves little impression on my palate. And your sauce, while good, lacked any true innovation."

As the primary VIP judge, Roasty's words carried immense weight. Hearing his dish dismissed so casually, Sty could only grit his teeth, cup his fists, and bow humbly in defeat.

One by one, the finalists' dishes were reviewed and scored. Finally, it was time to judge Julian's creation.

Mayor Salam took a small bite, and his face instantly flushed bright red. He reached for his teacup, coughing violently. "The dish is... incredibly unique. And I must say, overwhelmingly spicy! I have never eaten anything with such fierce heat in my entire life!"

Clearly, the Mayor was not a fan of chili.

Zani, however, took a bite and felt his eyes widen. The explosive blend of burning spices stirred dormant memories of modern Earth. For the first time since transmigrating, he tasted something that felt like home.

"I am extremely satisfied with this dish," Zani declared, offering Julian a rare, genuine smile.

Now, all eyes turned to Roasty. The culinary giant from Slaughter City took a bite, chewed slowly, and then his eyes flashed with a sharp, predatory light.

"Young man," Roasty said, his voice echoing across the silent stadium. "Come work for my restaurant in Slaughter City. I'll make you the Sous-Chef from the get-go, second only to the Head Chef himself. What do you say?"

Gasp!

This brazen offer instantly sent shockwaves through the crowd. Even Julian stood frozen in disbelief.

Meanwhile, Zani's expression darkened. This shameless bastard!

"Brother Roasty, you truly aren't giving me face," Zani intervened smoothly, his voice carrying a subtle, oppressive weight. "This is highly inappropriate. Julian has already pledged to work for our Iron Core Gym."

Zani turned his piercing gaze to the ragged chef. "Right, Julian?"

Although they had forged an ironclad agreement beforehand, who could blame the young man for reconsidering in the face of such temptation? Zani had no choice but to remind him of their agreement.

But despite the heavy hint, Julian remained completely quiet.

This gave the sly VIP the perfect opportunity to strike again.

"Think about it, young man!" Roasty pressed, completely ignoring all basic etiquette. He knew the immense commercial value of this dish. The Dao of Commerce is simple: spicy food makes patrons incredibly thirsty, which means they will purchase mountains of expensive wine!

"I will pay you a staggering ten silver coins a month!" Roasty declared.

The crowd nearly fainted. Ten silver a month?! That was equal to the entire first-place prize money! It was enough wealth to buy a good house in any village.

"Julian, do not listen to him. You already gave us your word," Zani countered fiercely, pulling out his ultimate trump card. "Furthermore, if you join our Gym, you will not just be a cook. You can train here entirely free of charge! We will fully support your foundation on the martial path!"

Both Roasty and Zani glared at the poor young man, their auras clashing invisibly across the stage.

Roasty knew he was entirely in the wrong for poaching talent at another man's event. But as a businessman, he simply could not let such a goldmine slip away.

Julian, however, had already decided to join the Iron Core Gym from the beginning. Roasty's offer of silver barely registered with him. But the moment Zani publicly mentioned martial arts, Julian's eyes burned with fiery determination.

Without a second's hesitation, Julian dropped to his knees and kowtowed deeply toward him.

"Master Zani! Please accept this lowly one into your Gym!"

"Hahaha! Good! Good! Good!" Zani laughed heartily, his eyes curving into crescent moons with delight.

 

[Pind_Ala]

A day before the Culinary Competition.

Inside the Mayor's office.

"How was your trip, Mayor?" Chaao asked carefully, standing before the massive wooden desk.

"It was excellent. I was able to officially invite our VIP guest, and thankfully, I even acquired the high-grade Mud Boar meat," Mayor Salam replied, leaning back. Having just returned from his secret trip to Slaughter City, he was quite pleased with himself. Everything had gone perfectly.

Seated in his grand chair, Salam suddenly noticed the heavy silence that had settled over the room. Looking up, he saw Chaao visibly trembling, struggling to speak just like usual.

"Say it. What is on your mind?" Salam demanded.

"Mayor... no. Father-in-law," Chaao stammered, his face pale. "We received urgent news from our spy inside the Mountain Shaking Fist Dojo while you were away. Master Nagar is mobilizing his elites. I... I am afraid they are planning to attack during the competition--"

"Hahahaha!"

Before Chaao could even finish his report, Salam burst into laughter. He already understood exactly what his son-in-law was worried about.

But instead of answering directly, the Mayor asked a question. "Weren't you always suspicious about the Immortal behind the Iron Core Gym?"

Lifting his head, Chaao saw a fanatical, determined look burning in the Mayor's eyes.

"This is the perfect opportunity to see whether I made the right bet," Salam declared, his voice thick with ambition. "Let Nagar attack. If the Immortal truly exists, he will protect his proxy's event. Then we shall finally know whether the arrow I released based on my speculation has struck its mark."

There was absolutely nothing more to say after that.

Today. A day after the competition.

Standing inside the cold city morgue, Chaao could only stare in horror at the body lying before him.

There really is an... Immortal.

Before him lay the pale corpse of Master Nagar, a man who had once been renowned and feared throughout the city.

According to the city guards' reports, most of the Mountain Shaking Fist Dojo's elite disciples, along with their Master, had attended the culinary competition the previous day. Strangely, immediately after returning from the event, they had simply gone to their respective homes and fallen asleep.

Never to wake up again.

There were absolutely no signs of struggle, wounds, or poison. Some terrified parents and relatives reported that after returning, the disciples did not speak a single word and simply went to their rooms to sleep.

One mother had even tried to force her son to speak, but he had merely stared blankly ahead before walking to his room and lying down, as if he were sleepwalking.

Faced with such a bizarre and terrifying occurrence, the local investigators could make neither head nor tail of it. But Chaao already knew what had happened. There was only one explanation that came to mind, the one the Mayor had boldly predicted.

"This... is an Immortal's power," Chaao whispered, a chill running down his spine.

Although the mass-death case was abruptly classified and closed that very day, an inescapable sense of horror lingered in the hearts of everyone involved.

Chaao now firmly believed that there is indeed an Immortal standing behind the Iron Core Gym.

Meanwhile, inside the Iron Core Gym.

Zani was officially a rich man.

Since the Mayor's Manor had generously covered almost all the construction and marketing expenses without asking for a share of the profits, Zani was in a fantastic mood.

Sitting in his room, he joyfully calculated his final profits.

Between the one thousand spectator entry fees and the two hundred and fifty-two contestant registration fees, a small mountain of copper and silver had flowed into his pockets. In return, his biggest expense was the prize pool: ten silver coins each for the Top Three, five silver for fourth and fifth place, and one silver for the remaining five contestants in the Top Ten.

Even after factoring in the smaller expenses, such as bonuses for the disciples and hunters who had served as guards and the cost of renting the registration tent, the final calculation was beautiful.

All in all, he had gained a staggering net profit of one hundred and forty silver coins. Adding his previous savings, he now held a grand total of one hundred forty-two silver and forty-five coppers!

Now I can finally start the Level 2 expansion!

In the Culinary Competition, Julian had secured first place, Sty had taken second, and Lady Tassy had claimed third. Following through on his backstage deals, Zani had officially hired both Julian and Tassy as the Gym's exclusive chefs.

Although many other cooks from the Top Ten were highly willing to work for him after seeing his wealth, Zani could not afford to be reckless. Hiring just the two of them already cost a hefty five silver coins a month, not to mention Zani's promise to fully support their martial arts training. With all the upcoming construction expenses needed to expand the gym, he absolutely could not think about hiring any more staff.

Since the grand kitchen was not actually built yet, he had placed Julian and Tassy on standby with basic pay. They were free to come and begin their physical training in the gym if they wanted to, though.

Over the next two days, the Gym gradually returned to its usual routine.

"Good morning, Master Zani."

"Good morning."

Zani was back to actively overseeing the outer disciples' training again. Because Leo was now busy with her own intensive training, 'Instructor Bai' was rarely seen. This naturally put all the teaching burden back on Zani. But...

"Junior Brother, this is wrong. Your elbows should be further apart," a voice corrected.

Zani smiled. After so much grueling training, the original Inner Disciples he had sponsored had finally begun taking matters into their own hands, actively correcting the forms of the newer Outer Disciples. So it was not too hard for him now.

It was another perfectly normal, highly productive morning.

"Haa..." Sighing to himself in satisfaction, he walked over to the adjacent courtyard.

Inside the Mud Boar pen, the female hunter and her teenage son were diligently caring for the massive beast and his squealing piglets.

"Everything really is back to normal. Good," Zani muttered.

Oink! Oink!

Looking at the smallest piglet happily eating corn with its family, Zani's smile widened. Since Julian had won first place, he was technically entitled to the live Mud Boar piglet. However, Zani had simply offered him an extra fifteen silver coins to buy the prize back.

Continuing his morning patrol, Zani finally ended up at the isolated area, behind the main hall.

"Huh! Harder! I said hit me harder!"

"O-Okay..."

Elisi was currently holding the 1st-Grade Artifact - Skin Tempering Iron Rod, trying to help Leo train. But it was painfully obvious that the soft-hearted older girl was almost terrified of hurting her best friend. Every swing was noticeably weaker than it should have been.

"Elisi, you can go," Zani said, stepping forward and rolling up his sleeves. "I'll take over from here."

"Yes, Master!" Elisi sighed in immense relief, immediately handing over the artifact before practically fleeing the area.

THWACK.

Time passed, and late that night, Zani sat at his desk under the warm glow of a lamp, finalizing his grand expansion blueprints.

Looking at the System's absurd requirement again: [Have a working kitchen, fully equipped and large enough to feed 60 people simultaneously.] The current, original kitchen attached to the main hall, if fully working, could barely accommodate forty people, let alone sixty. Even if remodeled, it would not be enough.

Drawing a heavy line across the parchment, Zani nodded decisively.

"My bedroom and Leo's adjacent room. They'll become part of the kitchen."

The entire left wing of the main hall, which currently housed his bedroom, Leo's bedroom, and the original kitchen, would have its internal walls smashed down to create one massive kitchen. It would provide enough space to easily feed over a hundred people, much less sixty!

That's settled. Now, where will we sleep?

Zani looked at the System's third requirement: [Build and designate official Accommodations for 10 Inner Disciples and 2 Core Disciples.]

"Well, if I have to prepare accommodations for twelve Disciples anyway, what's one more room for me, the Master?"

His pen moved to the opposite side of the blueprint. The right wing of the main hall, which currently contained nothing but a small washroom, would be completely remodeled. Three brand-new, luxurious bedrooms would be built there: one for himself, and two for his Core Disciples, Leo and Elisi.

That just left the ten Inner Disciple rooms and the total area requirement.

Zani tapped his pen against the desk as he thought it over. "Since we're destroying walls anyway, we might as well make use of every bit of space."

The original Iron Core Gym occupied 8,000 square feet, not counting the additional 2,000-square-foot courtyard he had purchased earlier. All he had to do was formally combine them.

The stone boundary wall separating the two properties would be entirely demolished and rebuilt around the new unified perimeter, bringing the entire property to the required 10,000 square feet. The massive amount of newly emptied space left in the combined courtyard would be more than enough to construct a long, wooden dormitory containing ten rooms for his Inner Disciples.

Having solved all three problems, Zani finally blew out the lamp and went to sleep, completely satisfied with his plans for the Gym's future.

 

[MechPilot?Not!]

MC is a little sick, but that's not a bad thing. It's for a necessary step in the skin foundation. Ultimately it's for the benefit of Leo, who got access to a one of a kind top grade manual and cauldron recipe.

Dining hall is perfect. Will it be big enough to hand more disciples, or will rotating meal times be necessary?

Wonderful little misunderstanding about the secret immortal. In a way, it's not entirely wrong. Curious as to what will happen to the remainder of the Dojo.

Not too far off from the gym becoming a dojo. The master needs to bust his butt and perfect the skin foundation stuff.

 

[Pind_Ala]

Now I finally understand why Lady Tassy was so eager to join the Gym after I promised to sponsor her children, Zani thought, massaging his throbbing temples.

His heart bled as he watched Pedi and Peda, the new chef's fourteen-year-old twins, devour an entire roasted boar leg at a terrifying pace. Each of them could easily eat more than Elisi and Leo combined!

He let out a long, weary sigh as the cool autumn wind swept across his garments. A full month had passed in the blink of an eye since the Culinary Competition.

The Iron Core Gym had been bustling with activity ever since. Zani had launched three massive construction projects simultaneously, sending wagons loaded with wood, cut stone, and iron rolling through the streets every day. The sudden boom had provided plenty of work for local laborers, earning them a handsome amount of silver while steadily draining Zani's newly acquired wealth.

However, the rapid expansion came at a cost. With the training grounds now becoming cramped, several impatient outer disciples had already canceled their tuition. As a result, the Gym now had only nineteen paying disciples, while its inner circle had grown to thirteen, including the new chef's twins.

While the original inner disciples had all successfully crossed the 300-kilogram physical threshold and were now enduring the brutal process of Skin Tempering, Pedi and Peda could only focus on building their basic foundation.

Thankfully, the main construction work had finally begun to settle down a few days ago, bringing some relief from the deafening noise.

But just as one headache disappeared, another took its place. Three days earlier, Mayor Salam had paid Zani an official visit, carefully choosing a time when the Gym Master was no longer occupied with managing the workers. It was finally time to cash in his "small favor."

Even now, remembering the visit made Zani's head spin. What if the Mayor demands all the Gym's profits? What if he wants my iron equipment? Will I be imprisoned, or worse, executed, if I refuse?!

Yet despite all his worrying, the Mayor had been surprisingly polite. And the favor he requested had been far simpler than Zani had feared.

"Master Zani," Mayor Salam had said, his voice carrying an unusual note of desperation. "I've spent a long time searching for a breathing manual of the Third Stage of Body Tempering. Although Low-Grade manuals are available in the Imperial Capital, practicing them is akin to crippling my foundation and leaving me with little to no hope of advancing further."

He paused before continuing.

"If your faction ever comes across a Mid-Grade breathing manual suitable for me, I would be grateful if you could inform me."

Seeing the sincerity in the Mayor's eyes and remembering how much silver he had contributed to the culinary event, Zani couldn't bring himself to lie. Of course, revealing the existence of his System was out of the question. He could only nod politely and promise to help if an opportunity ever arose.

THWACK!

The heavy Skin Tempering Rod slammed into Zani's shoulder, jolting him out of his memories.

"Focus, Master," Leo's muffled voice came from behind her veil.

Zani gritted his teeth, bracing his bruised muscles for the next strike as his mind spiraled again. The sheer physical strain compromised his focus, and a thought escaped his lips before he could stop it.

"...and the Mayor only wants a Mid-Grade manual," Zani muttered aloud under his breath.

Catching himself mid-sentence, he instantly clamped his jaw shut, forcing the rest of his frantic thoughts back into his mind. Focus! I can't start blabbering out loud.

Besides, it's a genuine problem, Zani thought, his anxiety resuming. The rewards my System grants are utterly unpredictable. What if it only grants Top-Grade manuals like the current Jade Skin technique? What am I supposed to do...

"Only a Mid-Grade manual?" Leo scoffed casually, having overheard Zani's slip of the tongue. "If you want, I will fetch one from my clan's vault when I visit home for the New Year. Do not worry about that old man, Master, and just continue to get hit."

Hearing her casual tone, Zani almost coughed up blood. But her Immortal privilege could indeed successfully solve his problem!

As the training continued in the space behind the main hall, Zani began thinking seriously about the Gym's future. This secluded corner had served its purpose for now, but it wouldn't remain sufficient forever. If he wanted to establish a proper Dojo, he would eventually have to make a breathing manual available to the public.

I'll reveal only the Bronze Skin stage to the public and outer disciples. The Iron Skin stage will be reserved for the inner disciples, while Jade Skin will remain a secret shared only between me and the core disciples.

For now, this was the safest arrangement. He could reconsider the restrictions once he became stronger or could ensure his disciples' absolute loyalty.

However, establishing a proper Dojo would be no easy task. He had only perfected the Bronze Skin stage himself, and still had a long way to go.

Later that afternoon, after finishing his medicinal bath, Zani stepped into the yard for his daily inspection.

As he passed the training grounds, he noticed several outer disciples whispering among themselves, clearly starting to note the absence of their former peers.

Before Zani could move forward to inspect the ongoing construction, a junior disciple hurriedly approached and stopped him.

"Master Zani! There's a hunter waiting outside the main gates. He says he needs to see you urgently."

A few moments later, Zani stood outside the Gym's heavy iron gates.

"Master Zani, I hope you've been well," the hunter greeted him with a deep bow.

"Hmm." Zani recognized the man. He was one of the local hunters who had originally agreed to the partnership months ago. Since the Gym's kitchen was still under construction, Zani only ever bought medicinal herbs from them, nothing else.

The man's unexpected arrival in the middle of the afternoon puzzled Zani. He had instructed the hunters to deliver their goods early in the morning unless an emergency arose.

"Master Zani, I was hunting near the outer borders when I came across fresh signs of a Mud Boar," the hunter explained hurriedly, his eyes darting around the street. "Would you like me to lead you there?"

"A Mud Boar?!" Zani's eyes lit up at the prospect of a valuable catch. "Wait here!"

He hurried back inside to collect his hunting gear and fetch Leo as a bodyguard. Excitement over the potential prize had completely blinded him to the hunter's trembling hands and darting eyes.

Before long, Zani and Bai left the Gym, following closely behind the anxious hunter. One could even say that Bai was actively being dragged by Zani.

"Come on, keep up! I will buy you whatever you want to eat at the tavern after this," Zani promised, actively pulling on Bai's thick arm.

"But I just finished my tempering session and I am still feeling weak," Leo's muffled, tired voice complained from inside the heavy chest cavity. "Let me rest..."

After the little melodrama, Zani, carrying his full supply bag, suddenly stopped. He turned to the hunter. "We are heading into the woods. I should hire a few more of your fellow hunters for protection."

"There's no need for that, Master Zani!" the hunter interrupted hastily, stepping directly in front of Zani to block his path. "This beast... it is on the outskirts of the mountain, and it is severely injured! If we do not hurry, the smell of blood might attract other predators, and we will lose it!"

"Fine. Lead the way," Zani agreed.

Unlike his previous hunting trip, when he had been little more than a helpless mortal, he was now an official Skin Tempering expert, a genuine martial artist. That newfound strength had given him enough confidence to venture into the woods without worrying too much about ordinary dangers.

After half an hour of walking through the dense forest, they finally arrived at a quiet clearing.

Just as the hunter had promised, a Mud Boar lay motionless in the tall grass. Thankfully, no other predators had reached the carcass yet.

Even dead, the beast was worth a considerable sum. Its meat could be sold or consumed, its thick hide turned into armor, and its tusks fashioned into daggers.

However, as Zani happily stepped forward to inspect his prize, his sharp eyes caught sight of something unnatural.

There were no claw marks or bite wounds on the beast's thick hide. Instead, several small cuts pierced its neck, clustered tightly together as though someone had struck the same spot ten or twelve times.

Blade wounds?!

The realization had barely registered when a deadly rain of iron-tipped arrows descended from the dense canopy above!

The hunter who had led them here was already fleeing into the brush, abandoning them without a second thought.

Sensing the killing intent, Bai immediately stepped in front of Zani and raised his thick wooden arms to shield him.

SWISH! SWISH! SWISH!

 

[Pind_Ala]

CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!

A deadly rain of iron-tipped arrows violently hammered into the forest clearing.

High up in the dense canopy, concealed within the autumn leaves, Blao was watching the ambush unfold with a cruel smirk.

Blao was the ruthless leader of the Fist Bandits, the last outlaw group still terrorizing the outskirts of Grains City. The gang had originally been founded by Master Nagar himself. May he rest in peace.

Blao was also the only person Nagar had ever truly trusted. Years ago, he had saved Nagar's life, earning him the title of little brother. When Nagar eventually left the mountains to establish a legitimate dojo in the city, he entrusted the entire gang to Blao.

Their bond had only grown stronger over the years through their seamless partnership: Nagar provided all the insider intelligence and targets from within Grains City, while Blao carried out the raids, splitting the silver down the middle after every successful job.

Then, a month ago, Blao received devastating news. His sworn brother had mysteriously died shortly after attending the Culinary Competition, and that cursed Iron Core Gym was somehow at the center of it all!

From that day on, Blao began plotting his revenge. He was a deeply paranoid man, and that very paranoia was why the Fist Bandits had survived the Mayor's purges when so many other outlaw groups had fallen. He refused to rush into anything without being certain of his chances. It had taken him an entire month to arrange this ambush, using a greedy local hunter to lure the Gym Master into a carefully prepared trap.

Die! Die! Die! Blao thought, his eyes widening with fanatical glee. I have finally avenged my brother!

Certain that the dense rain of iron had obliterated his targets, he lowered his bow. Yet, true to his cautious nature, he refused to step out of the canopy just yet.

"You there," Blao whispered, kicking a nearby grunt in the back. "Go down and make sure they are actually dead."

"Yes, Boss!"

Down in the clearing.

"Master Zani... why are we pretending to be dead?"

Leo asked the question in a hushed whisper from inside the hollow cavity of the puppet. Beside her, Zani was laying face-down in the damp soil.

"Because... because we do not know their exact locations in the canopy yet!" Zani hissed back, he was having difficulty speaking. "Yes, exactly! So keep quiet and let them approach. Just pretend to be dead!"

In truth, when the first volley of arrows had rained down, Zani had genuinely panicked. Acting on pure instinct, he had screamed and thrown himself behind Bai, convinced that his life was about to end.

Then the arrows struck his back.

To his astonishment, their heavy iron tips barely penetrated his skin. Only then did he remember that he was an official Skin Tempering expert now. Ordinary arrows shot from a distance could hardly hurt him!

Unfortunately, the realization had come too late. He had already shrieked, flinched, and thrown himself to the ground as though he had been mortally wounded. Thankfully, Bai had also stumbled and fallen while attempting to shield him, giving Zani a convenient excuse to pretend that his embarrassing display had all been part of a tactical plan.

Contrary to Zani's expectations, however, no horde of bandits descended upon them. Instead, a lone scout casually hopped down from the canopy.

And from the sound of it, the scout was not particularly bright.

"Huh. Good. The arrows struck true..." the bandit muttered, scratching his greasy head as he stood over Bai's massive body before crouching down and holding a filthy finger beneath Bai's nose to check for breathing. Unsurprisingly, he felt nothing.

"Boss! They are completely dead!" the underling shouted toward the trees.

Let's hope I never recruit such an idiot of an underling in this life, Zani thought dryly, his face still buried in the dirt.

Hearing the all-clear, rustling leaves echoed through the clearing as roughly a dozen armed men dropped down into the clearing.

"You did an excellent job leading them here," a rugged voice praised. "Here's your promised twenty silver. Now help the boys search their belongings."

"Yes, sir! Thank you, sir!"

Zani instantly recognized that sniveling voice. It belonged to the traitorous hunter!

He was just about to open his eyes, leap to his feet, and unleash his fury on the traitor when-

THUCK!

"W-Why...?" the hunter choked out, a blood-drenched blade suddenly protruding from the center of his chest.

"Hehehe!"

"The fool actually trusted the Boss! Even we don't do that!"

The bandits burst into cruel laughter as the hunter crumpled to the ground, his life fading within seconds.

Looking at the man who had betrayed them lying beside his own fallen backpack, Zani let out a long, weary sigh.

He had wanted to punish the traitor himself. Instead, the bandits had saved him the trouble. With that thought, Zani brushed the dirt from his robes and rose to his feet, finally facing the dozen armed men.

The cruel laughter in the clearing instantly died.

Beside him, the towering frame of Bai also rose with effortless grace.

"Are we done pretending now?" Bai asked in his usual deep, gravelly voice. "Time to kill."

"You idiot! They're still alive!" the bandit leader screamed at the scout who had checked their bodies.

The dimwitted scout barely had time to reach for his blade before Bai surged forward and drove his massive fist straight into the man's face.

BAM!

The scout's head caved in, killing him instantly. His lifeless body flew backward and slammed into a tree trunk like a discarded rag doll.

"What?!" Blao gasped, his heart sinking as a chill ran down his spine. That man was a Skin Tempering expert, nearly as strong as me! And he was killed in a single blow?!

Blao immediately realized he had made a catastrophic mistake. These two men were no mortals as the hunter had said but genuine martial artists and not ordinary ones like him. They had to be 2nd-Stage Body Tempering experts!

His late brother, Nagar, had been the only person he knew to have reached the Second Stage, and he had seen what a person of that power can achieve. Although he had begged his brother, Nagar always stubbornly refused to share his advanced breathing manual with him. To Blao, anyone at that level was an apex predator, someone he would never dare provoke.

He needed to run. Immediately.

"Idiots! What are you waiting for?!" Blao roared, slowly retreating toward the tree line. "There are only two of them, and we outnumber them! Surround them! Kill them!"

The moment his subordinates charged forward, Blao spun around and bolted into the wilderness. Sorry, boys. Looks like your time to sacrifice yourselves for the gang has finally arrived!

BAM! BOOM! CRUNCH!

Blao sprinted through the forest with every ounce of strength he could muster, the sickening sounds of breaking bones echoing behind him. But, he hadn't covered much distance when an unhurried voice called out from behind him.

"Hey. Where do you think you're going?"

Blao froze. Then, with trembling limbs, he slowly turned around.

Both of his supposed targets were calmly standing there. Fresh blood dripped from the giant's knuckles, while the Gym Master casually rested a heavy iron rod across his shoulder with face showing no reaction to the blood and gore sticking to his robes and weapon.

All eleven of his subordinates were dead. Some had been brutally smashed into the earth, while others had been cleanly split in half by the iron rod.

Even though his group only had four Skin Tempering experts including himself, they shouldn't have been annihilated this quickly, right?

Skin Tempering experts weren't invincible, after all. Numbers could overwhelm them, poison could bring them down, and even their tempered bodies couldn't protect their eyes from a well-aimed attack. With enough strong opponents wearing them down, their stamina would eventually run dry.

But such tactics required careful preparation, favorable circumstances, and a fair amount of luck. None of that mattered when your opponent could casually swing a fifty-kilogram iron rod straight into your face!

Faced with two monsters he couldn't hope to defeat, Blao did the only sensible thing left. He tossed aside his blade and dropped to his knees.

"Oh, great heroes!" he wailed, kowtowing so frantically that his forehead scraped against the dirt. "Please spare me! I have young children and a sick, elderly mother waiting for me at home! I was forced into this life!"

"Ohhh..."

A soft, melodic voice suddenly echoed across the clearing. "Master Zani, he looks like a pitiful soul. Shall we let him go?"

Yes! Please let me go! Blao prayed, keeping his forehead pressed against the dirt. Then a thought struck him. Wait...

He froze. A little girl's voice?!

Blao slowly raised his head, his eyes moving toward the towering, blood-soaked giant. There was no one else nearby who could have spoken. The voice had undoubtedly come from that rugged, terrifying man.

"Leo..." Zani sighed, pressing a hand against his face. "Oh, Little Leo. I actually felt a little sorry for him. I even considered letting him go... but now he knows your secret."

Inside the hollow puppet, Leo gasped. "Oopsie! It's been so long since I last spoke as Bai! I got carried away and forgot to change my voice!" Of course, she hadn't forgotten at all. This was her first little favor for a friend, after all.

"Hehe..." Blao forced out a trembling laugh, desperately trying to sound convincing. "I... I didn't hear anything, I swear! Please..."

Zani's expression instantly turned cold. He took a step toward the kneeling bandit.

"Please, tell me exactly where you live," Zani said with a polite, chilling smile. "I'd like to make sure your family is well taken care of."

 

[Pind_Ala]

As Zani stepped toward the kneeling man, he raised the Skin Tempering Iron Rod above his shoulders, preparing to strike.

Realizing that begging would not save his life, Blao, the ruthless leader of the Fist Bandits, launched a desperate surprise attack.

"Watch out!"

Before Zani could even comprehend what was happening, the towering figure of Bai blurred forward to physically shield him.

BANG!

Blao had unleashed his martial technique as a surprise attack. The devastating blow struck Bai's mechanical body head-on, sending a violent shock through the clearing.

Looking down, Zani realized with horror that Bai's entire right hand had been blown apart, leaving exposed strings hanging from the wrist.

"Pup--!" Blao's eyes widened in horror as he realized that the towering giant he had struck was completely hollow inside.

But before he could finish his sentence...

THUCK!

Zani's heavy iron rod came crashing down, striking Blao squarely on the head. The blow ended the bandit leader's life instantly.

HAA... HAA...

Zani stood frozen over the corpse, panting heavily as the adrenaline began to fade.

What just happened? he thought, struggling to process what had just occurred. How did he move so fast?

CLICK. CLICK. CLICK.

A series of mechanical latches echoed in the quiet forest clearing as the front of the puppet split open from the inside out.

Little Leo stepped out of the hollow cavity, her small face completely devoid of its usual haughtiness. Instead, she stared sorrowfully at the ruined hand of her beloved artifact.

The hand had been completely destroyed, leaving no hope of repairing it.

"Hah, you should be grateful, Master," Leo grumbled, crossing her small arms as she looked at the shattered remains. "I had set Bai's auto-reflexes to protect you. If I had not, you'd be the one standing there with a missing hand, or perhaps even an entire limb."

So that's why Bai protected me from the arrows earlier, too! Zani realized, his heart skipping a beat. And here I was thinking Little Leo had surpassed me in reaction speed.

Bai's reflexes had been astonishingly fast on both occasions. While Zani could only shout or throw himself to the ground, the puppet had already moved to protect him.

"This peasant trash!" Leo spat, furiously kicking Blao's lifeless body. "To think he actually cultivated a low-grade mortal technique to the Great Success stage!"

"So it was a martial technique," Zani muttered, finally understanding the explosive power behind Blao's final strike. Blao had undoubtedly mastered the Mountain Shaking Fist, the same low-grade technique taught at Nagar's dojo.

Why is Little Leo calling it a 'mortal' technique? Should I ask? Zani pondered, rubbing his chin. Nah! I will only ruin my reputation.

"Why do people even practice mortal-grade techniques?" Cuby Leo, still visibly angry over her broken toy, continued kicking the dead body, spouting all kinds of arrogant insults. "I think a waste can only practice garbage in their lives!"

Meanwhile, Zani ignored her tantrum and walked over to clean up the bloody scene, his mind spinning with rapid deductions.

So, regarding martial techniques... since they are practiced only by people within the four stages of the Body Tempering foundation, they are inherently called 'mortal grade' by cultivators, Zani thought, pieces of the puzzle smoothly locking together in his mind.

Oh, so it's the exact same as the realm ranking system! Since the body foundation stages exist solely to build a physical vessel, the people walking this path are technically still mortals. But the locals, desperately wishing to glorify themselves, labeled the people walking the body foundation path as "Martial Artists." Similarly, the combat arts they practiced naturally became known as "Martial Techniques."

Hah, it's not that the cultivation system is unnecessarily complicated, Zani mused, retrieving his heavy backpack from the grass. It simply gained new, localized names over the centuries to stroke the fragile egos of those in charge.

As he slung the bag over his shoulder, his gaze landed on the Mud Boar corpse lying not far away.

"These bandits really were professionals at setting a trap. I like it," Zani murmured, admiring their efficiency before dragging his complaining disciple back toward Big Wheat Village, carrying the boar.

Three Months Later.

This world possesses many profound, heaven-defying aspects. From the legendary path to Immortality to the utter lack of modern technological convenience, there are countless details that differentiates it from Earth.

Zani, as a transmigrator, easily accepted these things after his initial hesitation.

But the most bizarre, utterly weird thing is its calendar. Currently, there is only one universally celebrated festival across the entire continent: The New Year. While there are a few minor, region-specific festivals, such as the harvesting festival that only Grains City celebrates, absolutely none of them hold a candle to the New Year.

The primary reason for this unmatched excitement isn't just the grand feasts or the flowing wine. It is because, on this exact day, everybody officially ages by one year.

Unlike Earth, this world does not possess the concept of individual birthdays. A person's age is determined by the number of New Years they have lived through.

So, it means I will officially be twenty-two tomorrow, Zani thought, standing in the center of the Iron Core Gym's courtyard.

Today was New Year's Eve.

A gentle layer of pristine white snow was falling from the heavens, blanketing the gym's domain.

After the grueling morning training session concluded, all the disciples eagerly joined in decorating the Gym. By the time the late afternoon rolled around, bright red lanterns and auspicious banners adorned the grounds.

As the sun sank below the horizon and the snowfall grew heavier, everyone gathered inside the newly constructed kitchen for the New Year's Eve feast.

Construction of the kitchen had been completed the previous month, seamlessly completing the System's requirement and even exceeding it. The facility could now accommodate and feed more than a hundred people simultaneously.

Actually, calling it a mere kitchen is an understatement. It was a sprawling dining hall with an open kitchen at the far end.

The architecture was brilliantly designed. The entire left wing of the main hall, which previously housed Zani's old bedroom, Leo's adjacent room, and the original cramped kitchen, had all its internal walls smashed down. Entering inside, one immediately saw a massive, beautifully polished wooden table set horizontally in the middle of the room, with several smaller circular tables surrounding it.

Zani was the last person to enter the hall. As he closed the heavy wooden door behind him to block out the winter chill, he saw every single person in the room immediately stand up from their seats to respectfully greet him.

"Master!"

"Happy New Year, Master!"

"Greetings, Master Zani!"

Currently, the overall number of disciples had decreased considerably. This was because most of the casual youths in the surrounding villages had either successfully built their physical foundations or simply found the newly updated tuition fees far too expensive. Ever since the kitchen opened, Zani had raised the monthly tuition to exactly 1 silver coin, perfectly justifying the extortionate price by including highly nutritious daily meals.

Thus, the gym currently held only twenty-four active disciples. Out of those twenty-four, thirteen belonged to the inner circle.

Including the two hired caretakers, the rugged female hunter and her teenage son, and the two official chefs, all of them were present, standing respectfully and waiting for Zani to take his main seat at the head of the long table to officially commence the feast.

As Zani approached the head of the table, Julian emerged from the open kitchen. The beggar who had claimed first place in the grand Culinary Competition was now impeccably dressed in a clean, white chef's uniform. With a grand flourish, he unlidded the massive iron utensils, instantly allowing an explosive, mouth-watering aroma to flood the hall.

"Master Zani, as per your request, I have perfectly recreated my competition dish using the Mud Boar meat!" Julian announced proudly, gesturing to the steaming cauldrons.

"Excellent work, Julian," Zani praised, his voice echoing warmly off the stone walls.

Standing at the head of the table, Zani raised his cup of warm herbal tea and addressed the sea of expectant faces. "Since tomorrow is officially the New Year, our Iron Core Gym is celebrating it a day early. This way, all of you disciples and staff may return home to spend the proper holidays with your families and loved ones."

Zani stopped for a moment, then spoke with a benevolent smile. "Now, let the feast begin!"

WAAAA!

The polite atmosphere shattered in an instant. The moment Zani gave the word, everyone reached for their chopsticks, scrambling to claim the best cuts of meat and the richest broth.

As expected, the gluttonous quartet led the charge. Elisi, the eldest disciple; the veiled Leo; and Lady Tassy's twins, Pedi and Peda, devoured everything within reach. Their chopsticks moved with the speed of true martial artists as they practically inhaled entire plates of food.

"You brats! Pedi! Peda! Stop eating like starving wolves!" Lady Tassy shouted from the kitchen, her face reddening with embarrassment as she watched her children snatch food from the younger disciples.

"Lady Tassy, please, let them enjoy themselves. We have more than enough food tonight," Zani called out, trying to reassure the flustered chef.

Zani knew what worried her. Although the feast was expensive to prepare, its main attraction was the limited supply of authentic Mud Boar meat.

After months of careful feeding and maintenance, they had finally butchered the original male Mud Boar they had captured alive.

Keeping the beast for another year or two might have brought greater financial returns. However, circumstances had changed. Just a few days prior, Zani, along with his inner disciples, all of whom were now officially Skin Tempering experts, had successfully ventured into the Brown Earth Mountain and captured a pair.

Thus, the oldest boar, the one that had fulfilled the quest requirement once, served as the ultimate main course for this New Year's Eve.

The grand feast raged on with joyous laughter and clinking cups until the winter night fully swallowed the sky. Everybody ate heartily, their bellies completely stuffed.

In the end, as the hour grew late and the disciples prepared to leave, Zani stood by the heavy wooden doors. He personally bid farewell to every single departing member, handing out small, carefully wrapped red pouches filled with money as a New Year's gift.

 

[Pind_Ala]

The New Year's Eve feast had finally reached its natural conclusion. One by one, the satiated disciples began to take their leave. Stepping out into the biting winter chill, they respectfully bowed to Zani before disappearing into the snowy night.

Some of the youths resided right here in Big Wheat Village, while others faced much longer journeys, traversing the snow-covered roads back to their respective settlements or the bustling Grains City.

Many parents and relatives had already been waiting out in the cold. As Zani personally escorted his students to the gates, the crowd gradually dispersed until the grounds were completely empty.

Due to the profound importance of the New Year festival, the Iron Core Gym would remain closed for five full days.

In the end, as the courtyard fell quiet and the festive noise faded into the howling of the winter wind, Leo was the last person remaining. Standing near the iron gates, she adjusted her thick winter cloak, her veiled face obscuring her expression.

"Will you be alright traveling alone in this weather?" Zani asked, his tone carrying the genuine concern of a master. "The roads are already freezing over. Should I escort you?"

"There is no need, Master Zani," Leo replied. Her voice retained its usual aristocratic composure, though it sounded slightly warmer after the feast they had shared. "My mother will be picking me up from just outside the village. She is already waiting."

Zani nodded slowly, understanding flashing in his eyes. He still knew very little about Leo's mysterious Immortal background, so he could only accept her words. "Very well. Have a safe journey, and take care of yourself."

As Leo respectfully bid her farewell and vanished into the swirling white mist, Zani let out a long, foggy breath. Then, firmly grabbing the heavy iron handles, he pulled the gates shut. THUD! The massive wooden locking bar slid into place.

Silence settled over the Iron Core.

In the past, the nighttime silence of the courtyard was always broken by the heavy grunting and shuffling of the Mud Boars. However, currently, only Zani and his head chef were left in the entire compound. The massive Mud Boar pen had been relocated to another recently purchased plot of land due to the extensive construction of the outer walls. The hired caretakers had naturally moved along with the beasts to look after them.

Turning away from the freezing gates, Zani walked across the snow-dusted yard and headed back inside, toward the warm glow spilling from the main hall.

Inside the kitchen, the lingering aroma of spices and roasted meat still hung in the air. There, sitting hunched over a small, circular wooden table in the corner, was Julian.

The head chef was currently drinking, entirely alone.

"It is only the two of us now, Julian," Zani said softly, his footsteps echoing lightly on the stone floor as he moved toward the table.

"Yes, Master," Julian replied, his voice uncharacteristically hollow. He didn't look up, choosing instead to quietly take a long, agonizing sip from a large clay jug of cheap, fiery wine.

Zani studied his head chef for a moment. "Are you certain you have nowhere else to be? No family to return to for the New Year? The gym is closed for five days; you are entirely free to leave."

Julian paused. His calloused fingers tightened around the neck of the clay jug until his knuckles turned white. "I am certain."

The brief answer, coupled with the sadness in his bloodshot eyes, told Zani that something was wrong. Without pressing him further, Zani pulled out a chair and sat beside him. "Pour me a cup as well."

Startled out of his depression, Julian hurriedly set his jug down. "Of course."

He scrambled to find a clean ceramic cup, his hands trembling slightly as he respectfully served his Master.

Although Julian was twenty-five, making him older than Zani, age meant little in the martial world. Zani was his employer, the man who had rescued him from the streets, and a martial expert. The difference in their positions was enough to make their master-servant relationship unquestionable.

The cheap wine burned as it went down, and Zani's thoughts drifted to the now-empty dining hall.

His gaze wandered over the chairs where his disciples had sat only moments ago. How many had officially graduated from the Gym by now?

He had long since lost count. After holding his first official graduation ceremony months ago, he had quickly realized that organizing such elaborate celebrations for every batch simply wasn't worth the effort.

Graduating from the Gym required little more than lifting 150 kilograms, a feat most disciples could achieve after two or three months of training with pure iron equipment. As a result, quite a few youths had already graduated.

Some joined local dojos or the Mayor's Manor, while others quit because they could no longer afford the expenses. The more ambitious ones left for other cities, hoping to find better opportunities.

"I wonder if any of them will ever return to visit?" Zani mused silently, staring into the amber liquid in his cup. He swirled the wine gently. Well, who cares? As long as they don't cause trouble or tarnish the Gym's name, they can do whatever they want.

"Who will come back...?"

Julian's slurred, heartbreakingly fragile voice suddenly interrupted Zani's internal monologue.

Turning to look at his chef, Zani was taken aback. Julian's face was flushed, and tears streamed down his cheeks. He stared blankly into his empty cup, his voice trembling as though he had asked the question without expecting an answer.

SNIFF... SNIFF...

"Julian, what happened?" Zani asked, genuine concern creeping into his voice.

"Nothing... it's nothing, Master..." Julian choked out, shaking his head in denial, though the tears only fell faster.

Then, with trembling hands, he poured himself another cup, spilling some wine over the rim with his hands, and gulped it down in one go.

WAAAAAHHH!

That cup shattered the last of his restraint. The twenty-five-year-old man collapsed heavily across the wooden table, burying his face in his arms as he wept out loud with the raw agony of a lost child who had just watched his entire world crumble to ash.

"Hey, hey. Easy now," Zani sighed softly, gently but firmly patting the crying man's shaking shoulder.

And so, Zani spent the remainder of his New Year's Eve playing the unexpected role of a consoling therapist. Through bouts of sobbing, hiccups, and slurred words, Julian finally revealed the painful story of his past.

He had not always been a beggar on the streets of Grains City. Julian had once been the Young Master of a wealthy, prominent clan in a distant, prosperous city.

In his vibrant youth, he had been the pride of his family, destined for greatness. But fate is a cruel mistress. He had fallen madly, hopelessly in love with a breathtakingly beautiful girl, a true jade beauty of the city who was tragically suffering from a mysterious, terminal illness.

Desperate to save her, Julian secretly embezzled a large portion of his clan's wealth. He spent it hiring renowned physicians and alchemists, consulting traveling doctors, and purchasing expensive spirit herbs, hoping that one of them would find a cure.

But none of them could save her.

When the elders of his clan inevitably discovered what he had done, their punishment was swift. Julian was stripped of his status, beaten, and cast out into the streets. To his family, he was nothing more than an unfilial fool who had squandered their wealth for a woman they believed was already beyond saving.

Tragically, the woman for whom Julian had sacrificed everything: his wealth, status, martial future, and family, remained by his side in the slums for only a few months.

Then, one cold morning, he awoke in their dilapidated shack to find her gone. All she had left behind was a hastily written note:

"I have no choice but to leave. Please, wait for me. I will come back."

And so, the foolish, broken boy had waited.

For five long years, he remained near that shack, living as a beggar in the gutters and enduring hunger, winter's biting cold, and beatings from local thugs. No matter how miserable his life became, he refused to leave. What if she returned looking for him?

Finally, a year ago, the undeniable weight of reality forced him to move. He had been drifting aimlessly from one city to another ever since, wandering the world, desperately trying to see if he could find a trace of her. But it was all to no avail.

Eventually, entirely broken in both body and spirit, the tides of fate washed him up in Grains City, right to the doorstep of the Iron Core Gym.

Amidst wet tears and heavy snorts, the sheer emotional exhaustion and the cheap alcohol. Sleep finally claimed him, and Julian collapsed right there on the table, his breathing becoming steady.

Thankfully he did not vomit, Zani thought pragmatically, eyeing the pristine floor of his new dining hall. But this story... huh. Wait a minute. If he was a pampered Young Master who immediately transitioned into a starving street beggar... then where in the hell had he learned to cook like a master chef?!

Zani could only shake his head in sheer wonder at the bizarre plot hole, as he hoisted the sleeping man over his shoulder.

Carrying his head chef, Zani left the kitchen and headed toward the newly constructed living quarters to put him to bed.

As he walked through the snow, Zani's eyes naturally evaluated the sprawling architecture of his developing establishment.

Originally, the System had only required a total of twelve accommodations to facilitate the Level 2 upgrade: two rooms for Core Disciples, and ten rooms for Inner Disciples.

Unfortunately, Zani's original plans had run into trouble. About two months into construction, the Mud Boars became violently agitated as the foundations of the outer walls approached their pens.

The disruption brought construction to a halt and forced Zani to spend a considerable sum on an adjacent plot of land where he could relocate the beasts.

Still, the setback had an unexpected benefit. With the Mud Boars relocated, Zani suddenly had far more usable space within the original compound.

Rather than sticking to the bare minimum, he expanded the accommodations, making the rooms larger and more comfortable. He also increased the number of dormitories from ten to twenty, setting aside two private rooms for his chefs, Julian and Lady Tassy.

These twenty rooms did not include the three larger rooms built in the right wing of the main hall. Zani had reserved those for himself and his future instructors, though his Core Disciples currently occupied them.

Laying Julian down on the bed in his designated quarters, Zani pulled a thick blanket over the sleeping man.

Back in the freezing courtyard, Zani looked toward the unfinished perimeter wall. It was the final requirement standing between the Iron Core Gym and its Level 2 upgrade, and the heavy winter snow had slowed the workers considerably.

Only another week of work remained, he thought, crossing his arms.

The Gym would remain closed for five days. Once the holiday ended, the workers could resume construction and lay the final stones.

Then the Iron Core Gym will finally enter a new era.

_________________________________

Fact: Zani never drank alcohol in the presence of his disciples

 

[Pind_Ala]

The Next Day

By the time Zani finally opened his eyes, it was approaching noon.

With the gym officially closed for the next five days, the usual morning chaos was nowhere to be heard.

Stepping out of his quarters after freshening up, he leisurely strolled into the main hall. To his surprise, someone was already there.

Julian, clad in a loose set of training clothes, was vigorously lifting a pair of heavy iron dumbbells in the center of the hall. The chef was entirely committed to his workout, his breathing steady and his focus absolute. He did not even notice Zani quietly moving closer.

"Hey, Julian," Zani called out smoothly, breaking the silence. "How are you feeling?"

THUD!

Startled out of his deep concentration by the sudden voice, Julian lost his grip. The heavy iron dumbbells crashed violently onto the stone floor.

"Master Zani! You finally woke up," Julian exclaimed, catching his breath before gesturing toward a nearby seat. "Come, come! Sit down and tell me what you would like for breakfast... oh, wait. Look at the time. I mean, what would you like for lunch?"

Zani narrowed his eyes, hearing that. "Yeah, yeah. It's hilarious to make jokes about your boss, right? Just continue with your training. I am not in the mood to eat yet."

Seeing Julian in such high spirits, Zani finally let out a quiet sigh of relief. At least the man seemed to have recovered from whatever had happened the previous night. With that reassuring thought, he left Julian to his training and went about his own business.

Later that day, during lunch.

The two of them sat at the table, enjoying a hearty, quiet meal. The food, as always, was utterly spectacular. Julian's culinary skills were genuinely heaven-defying.

Once they had finished their meal, Zani wiped his mouth and leaned forward. He decided it was finally time to ask the burning question that had kept him awake late into the night.

"Hey, Julian, can I ask you something?"

Still chewing on a piece of roasted meat, Julian simply nodded.

"Where exactly did you learn to cook so well?" Zani asked. "You mentioned last night that you were a pampered Young Master before ending up on the streets."

Gulp! Gulp!

Julian swallowed the last of his food and washed it down with a gulp of water. After wiping his mouth, he smiled faintly, a trace of fondness appearing on his face. "From my wife."

Zani froze, his mind screeching to a halt as he tried to connect the dots from last night's conversation. "Your wife...? You mean the girl who fell terminally ill? The one who left you in the slums?"

The moment the words left his mouth, Zani realized he might have stepped into dangerous territory. But Julian had brought her up himself, hadn't he? Surely, asking a simple question to clarify the timeline wouldn't hurt.

Or so he thought.

Then, without warning, Julian's expression changed.

The fond smile vanished from his face. His eyes widened, and the color drained from his cheeks until he looked deathly pale.

His cup slipped from his fingers and struck the floor. Julian clutched his head with both hands, digging his fingers into his scalp as he shook it violently from side to side.

"No... no..."

"Hey, Julian? Are you okay?" Zani asked, his tone dropping in alarm as he raised his hands defensively. "Let's just forget what I said, alright? You do not need to answer me!"

But Julian was not listening. The man was completely trapped in a violent, waking nightmare. He curled inward, covering his face as a rapid, glitching stream of broken words spilled from his lips.

"Wife. Left. Left. Wife. Wife. Girl. Girl. No. No. Return. Wife. Left..."

Watching his head chef unravel before his eyes, Zani felt his own composure slipping away. What happened to him? What am I supposed to do?!

Julian's muttering grew increasingly frantic. His fingers clawed at his face, and his breathing came in short, ragged bursts.

Zani had no idea how to help him. Panic surged through his chest, leaving him with only one desperate option.

BANG!

"Damn it, wake up, JULIAN!" he roared, releasing all his built-up anxiety and worry into a single, booming shout.

The sudden shout seemed to snap Julian out of his trance. He flinched violently, then blinked several times as the color gradually returned to his face. A moment later, he looked at Zani in bewilderment.

"Master Zani? What happened?" he asked, rubbing his ears. "Why are you shouting?"

Zani stared at him, his chest still heaving. He forced himself to take several deep breaths, trying to steady his racing heart. He doesn't remember a thing...

Hmm...

Zani studied the utterly bewildered chef in silence. Between Julian's drunken ramblings the previous night and the terrifying episode just now, one thing had become clear: this was a subject best left alone.

He would make sure none of the disciples brought it up around Julian again. Whatever lay buried in the man's past, Zani had no intention of digging it up a second time.

Meanwhile, at the Cuby Clan's ancestral estate.

Thousands of miles away from the humble Big Wheat Village, inside an estate so luxurious it defied mortal comprehension, a certain veiled girl was still fast asleep.

Little Leo, who from childhood had been strictly taught the importance of a proper sleep cycle, had always slept and woken up on time. Well, that was before a certain lazy gym master's habits had rubbed off on her.

To the sheer bewilderment of her prestigious parents, it was almost lunchtime when the young miss of the Cuby clan finally rolled out of her silk sheets.

Entering the courtyard, Leo yawned quietly. "Good morning."

"Good morning, my sweet daughter," Leo's mother replied, her face blooming into a warm, beautiful smile. She was simply happy that her little girl was greeting her properly. Stepping forward, she was about to ask what rare delicacies she would like to eat for lunch.

But someone just had to ruin the moment.

"It is already the afternoon," a deep, authoritative voice echoed from the stone pavilion. "Is this what you are learning while staying outside in the mortal world? To have such an undisciplined, unhealthy sleep cycle?"

Leo's father, the grand Patriarch of the Cuby Clan, sat by the stone table. Although he loved his daughter more than anything, as a father, he felt a duty to guide her onto the righteous path. After seeing her wake up so scandalously late, he simply could not hold back his strict impulse to point it out.

He did this while fully knowing the immediate consequences. He could already feel his wife's murderous glare boring into the side of his head.

But the Patriarch had already done the mental arithmetic. He was perfectly safe. In five days, there was a highly important sect meeting he had to attend, meaning he would be leaving the estate right alongside Leo. When returning from his trip, all he would need to do was buy his wife an expensive artifact as an apology gift.

Problem solved.

With his survival practically guaranteed, the Patriarch could afford to act like a strict father for the time being.

Later that evening.

The sun had set over the grand estate. Leo sat with her older brother in the inner hall, enthusiastically recounting all the fun she had been having with her new best friend, Elisi.

Meanwhile, in the adjoining tea room, the Patriarch and his wife sat sipping spiritual tea while shamelessly eavesdropping on their children's conversation.

"Should I go out there and ask her?" the Patriarch suddenly whispered, barely holding himself back as he tapped his finger anxiously against his teacup.

"No, let me do the talking later," his wife whispered back, narrowing her eyes. "But are you absolutely sure about this?"

"Yes!" the Patriarch hissed, his voice trembling with suppressed excitement. "The last time I checked her from afar, I mistook her skin tempering for a Mid-Grade manual. But now that I've seen her up close and sensed its purity, I'm certain of it... It's a Top-Grade breathing manual!"

He paused, almost unable to believe his own conclusion.

"Such techniques are mentioned only vaguely in some texts. I've never even seen one in person!"

The Patriarch's eyes practically sparkled as he spoke.

"Is a Top-Grade manual really that important?" Leo's mother asked, furrowing her elegant brows. Despite her cultivation, she still could not fathom what could possibly hype up her stoic husband to such an embarrassing degree.

"You do not understand!" the Patriarch whispered, barely keeping his voice down. "Even our mighty Earth Sect doesn't possess a breathing technique of this grade! Such a technique is rumored to exist only within the core inheritance of the Five Elements Sect! Can you understand the level of foundation we are talking about now?!"

Understanding what this truly represented for her daughter's future, Leo's mother gasped softly, her curiosity instantly ignited.

"Okay, okay," she conceded. "You can ask her about it tonight. And make sure to tell her a bit about the Earth Sect, too. After all, she will be officially joining it after she reaches the peak of the Body Tempering realm."

Later that night.

The family hosted a massive, lavish New Year's feast. Although, according to clan traditions, the entire extended family and all branch elders had to celebrate the New Year together in the grand hall, but since Little Leo hated having people look at her, her parents had kept the celebration isolated to just their family of four.

The huge, circular table was heavily burdened with glowing delicacies, roasted spirit beasts, and fragrant immortal wines.

If only Elisi were here...

As Leo savored the delicious feast, her best friend naturally came to mind. She looked up at her mother. "Mother, please remember to pack some of these delicious things for me to take back this time."

"Of course, my darling," her mother smiled warmly.

After a while, Leo leaned back in her chair with a thoroughly satisfied smile, the Patriarch decided it was the perfect tactical moment to strike.

COUGH.

"Leo," the Patriarch said, clearing his throat to gain his daughter's attention as he put on his best, most authoritative face. "Have you finally broken through to the Skin Tempering stage?"

Due to Leo's intense hatred of anyone seeing her scarred face, the entire family was strictly forbidden from casually sweeping her with their Spiritual Sense. In fact, a few months prior, she had nearly packed her bags and left the estate entirely after catching her mother using it to peek at her in the garden.

Because of this, she always wore her veil, even within the safety of her home. Only the Patriarch, possessing a vastly higher realm of cultivation, was able to effortlessly see through her veil without alerting her.

Of course, there was no way he was ever going to let her know that.

Leo dabbed her lips with a silk napkin. "Yes, Father, I broke through some time ago," she replied casually.

Then, before her father could steer the conversation toward the Earth Sect, Leo tilted her veiled head and beat him to the punch.

"Come to think of it..." she began, genuine curiosity entering her voice. "Father, do you know anything about Top-Grade breathing manuals?"

 

[Pind_Ala]

"Before we talk about a Top-Grade manual, Leo, there are some things you need to understand," the Patriarch continued, "Our Cuby Clan is officially recognized as one of the five prominent Cultivation Clans within the Earth Dragon Empire. Centuries ago, the founders of all five clans came together in a grand alliance and collectively created the Earth Sect."

He paused, swelling his chest slightly with pride. "Your father, meaning myself, currently holds the prestigious position of an Elder inside the Earth Sect."

"And why exactly are you telling me all this?" Leo interrupted smoothly. Seeing that her father was gearing up to keep going without stopping, she decided to intervene before he could launch into a full historical lecture.

This sudden interruption completely shattered the enthusiasm and immense pride with which the Patriarch was speaking.

"Because we, your parents, want you to formally join the Earth Sect, just as your older brother did," he explained, dropping the dramatic flair. "You see, sweetie, our clan's private archives only hold High-Grade manuals for the 1st Stage and 2nd Stage of Body Tempering. For the advanced 3rd and 4th Stages, we only possess standard Mid-Grade manuals."

Leo's mother leaned forward, taking over the explanation to add a gentler touch. "If you stay stubborn and refuse to join the sect simply because you hate showing your face to strangers, we can only support your training until the peak of the Body Tempering realm."

"To move forward after that, to break through to the next major realm and extend your life, you can only achieve it by joining the Earth Sect."

Leo's mother talked at length, desperately trying to make her daughter understand why a sect's backing was so vital. But as she watched her daughter remain entirely quiet, her veiled face pouting visibly beneath the silk fabric, she knew her words were falling on deaf ears.

"Okay, look at me," her mother sighed softly. "Remember, the Body Tempering realm, even at its absolute peak, is still ultimately called the 'Mortal' realm because mortals can only ever possess a maximum of 100 years' worth of lifespan. To increase it, you must break through to the next major realm and become a Cultivator."

A heavy, suffocating two-minute silence filled the dining hall. There was still absolutely no reply from the girl. Little Leo remained sitting in the exact same slumped position, completely ignoring everything around her.

This stubborn silence deeply worried all three family members present.

"Leo, my darling, please tell Mommy that you understand," her mother coaxed again, putting on a deeply pitiful, worried face.

"Master Zani said... he will create a sect one day," a tiny voice muttered.

It was spoken so softly that in a normal room, it would have been entirely ignored as someone merely whispering to themselves. But all three people sitting beside Leo are Cultivators, powerful beings who have long surpassed all mortal sensory limits. They heard the low murmur with crystal clarity.

But, instead of acknowledging her words softly, the Patriarch abruptly stood up from his seat, his protective fatherly mask instantly replaced by the stern, terrifying countenance of a sect elder.

"What did you just say?" he asked in a demanding, booming tone.

"I said, I already belong to a sect, and I will not be leaving it! Thank you!"

Being shouted at by her father instantly sparked Leo's own fierce temper. She stood up abruptly from her chair and shouted all her pent-up worry and frustration right back at his face, before quickly sitting back down and taking rapid, deep breaths to steady herself.

"Oh?"

Instead of getting genuinely angry at the blatant disrespect, the Patriarch's eyes gleamed with a mischievous light. He decided to shift tactics and tease his daughter.

"And what exactly is the name of this prestigious 'sect' of yours?"

"The name...?" Leo paused, caught off guard for a fraction of a second before raising her chin with immense pride. "Yes! It is the Iron Core Sect!"

"Never heard of it," the Patriarch chuckled dryly, crossing his arms. "So, tell me, is your grand sect officially registered and sanctioned under the jurisdiction of the Five Elements Sect?"

"What even is the Five Elements Sect...?" Leo muttered, momentarily thrown off by the unfamiliar terminology as her natural voice slipped out. But remembering she was currently in the middle of a heated verbal spar with her father, she aggressively raised her voice again. "We are not registered! So what?!"

"Hmm, not registered at all," the Patriarch mused, a dangerous, theatrical smirk playing on his lips. "This means your sect is an illegal, rogue faction. Making our sects natural enemies. Tell me, little girl... is your Iron Core Sect prepared to face a bloody Sect War?"

Sect war?! Leo gasped, her heart jumping into her throat.

The sheer, bloody weight of the concept terrified her. Realizing she was completely outmatched by her father's political bullying, she frantically turned toward her mother for salvation. "No! You bully! Mother, look at him!"

But to her absolute horror, her always loving, doting mother purposely turned her face away, refusing to look toward her.

Is it because I didn't answer her before? Leo realized with a sinking heart. Huh... they are all bullies! Completely defeated, she sat heavily back down in her chair. As her father broke into a victorious, booming laugh, the sheer emotional overwhelm finally brought hot tears to her eyes underneath her veil.

"Nobody loves me anymore!" she wailed.

WAAAAAHHH!

The Patriarch's laughter died instantly. Leo's mother snapped her head back around, her eyes flashing with fury as she ruthlessly glared at her husband. "You stinky man! How dare you make my daughter cry?!"

Half an Hour Later.

The domestic storm finally calmed down. After a massive amount of scolding directed at the Patriarch and plenty of comforting hugs for Leo, her parents finally relented.

They allowed her to continue doing as she pleased for now, but under one strict promise: she must formally join the Earth Sect if she fails to break through to the realm above Body Tempering before turning 25.

"Leo, you must truly understand the reason why there are so few cultivators in our empire, to the point that common people casually call us immortals," her father explained, his voice now entirely serious and laden with parental weight.

"It is because breaking above the mortal limits of Body Tempering requires vastly more than raw talent. It demands an astronomical amount of resources. Furthermore, a human only has a viable chance to achieve this breakthrough before turning 30, or at the absolute maximum, 35. After that age, a breakthrough becomes almost impossible."

Leo's mother held her hands tightly, her eyes welling with genuine tears once more. "You must understand our deepest worry, darling. We do not want our precious baby girl to become old, wither away, and die right before our very eyes while we live on for centuries. So, please... you must promise to join the Earth Sect when you hit 25."

Seeing the deep, unvarnished fear in her mother's eyes, even though Leo suspected a small part of the crying was still an elaborate maternal act, it still deeply hurt to watch her parents look so desperate. Left with absolutely no choice, she softly nodded her head and agreed to the terms.

With the crisis averted, Leo immediately asked about the Top-Grade breathing manual again. To her immense surprise, her father admitted he only knows a tiny bit of lore regarding them; he has never actually seen one in person throughout his entire life.

"Leo..." her father suddenly whispered, a distinct glint of greed entering his eyes as he leaned across the table. "Do you currently have it with you? Can I see it? If I can acquire it and donate it to the Earth Sect's treasury... I will for sure become the next Sect Master!"

Leo stared at her father through her veil, a smug, highly satisfied smirk forming on her lips. "So, in fact, my sect is superior to yours, Father! Hehehe!"

"Hmm," the Patriarch grumbled, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "If the breathing manual isn't on you, it must be hidden away on your so-called 'Sect Master.' I think it's highly appropriate that I pay this young man a personal visit then..."

No! You don't! Leo shouted internally in absolute horror, her blood running cold.

She knows her father far too well. The man is incredibly low-key, relaxed, and easily bullied at home, but outside the estate walls, he is an entirely different beast. There is a terrifying, bloody reason why he is the Clan Patriarch and a feared Elder.

If her father went after Zani to get the breathing manual from him, Zani would undoubtedly be turned into ash, and she would never be able to see him again!

Thus, purely for the sake of her best friend Elisi, and for the safety of all her fellow junior brothers and sisters, and absolutely not for the sake of that lazy, sleeping Master Zani, she aggressively forced herself to start crying out loud again, successfully using her tears to completely avert the impending crisis.

The remaining days of the holiday passed in a blur of such bittersweet, chaotic family memories.

Soon enough, the vacations officially came to an end.

Fifteen Days After the New Year.

[Ding~]

[Sect Level 2 Upgrade Conditions successfully met!]

[Level: 2]

[Exp: 0 / 100]

[Disciples: 21 / 60]

[System Feature Upgraded: Talent Evaluation Eye]

[Summary: The Host can now see exactly what specific thing another person is naturally talented in.]



____________________________________________

[Question: Leo is not the only talented person in the gym currently, can you guess who the others are?]

[Author Note: enjoy advance chapters right now on my patreon. patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

It had been three days.

Three full days had slowly ticked by since the construction finished, and there was still no update from the system. Although Zani always knew the damn thing was fundamentally unreliable, his entire future depended on it. Thus, after receiving no response for three days, his spirit hit rock bottom, to the point where even eating started losing its flavor.

"Master Zani, are you alright?"

Zani blinked, breaking out of his daze. Looking up, he saw several of his disciples staring at him with worried expressions.

"Hmm, I am good. Just feeling tired, let me just rest for a bit," Zani lied smoothly, maintaining his master persona as he stood up and moved toward his quarters again, leaving the worried disciples behind.

"From the morning, he's done nothing but sleep and eat," Lady Tassy sighed in a worried tone as she watched his retreating back disappear down the corridor.

But her children's attention was focused on something else entirely.

Pedi stared intensely at Zani's abandoned table. "He did not even finish his meal, such a sin... let me help Master finish it."

"No, let me!" Peda hissed, aggressively pushing past his sister. And so, the two of them started fiercely fighting over a half-filled bowl of leftover rice.

Meanwhile, the very moment Zani entered his room, a loud, boastful laughter burst out into the quiet space. Inside the room, he was incredibly happy the moment the system upgrade notification finally came.

"Hahaha! It finally came!"

And it did not stop there. The transparent blue screen rapidly flickered with new text.

【Ding~】

【New Quest: Have 2 core disciples and 10 inner disciples, all at skin tempering realm】

【Rewards: 20 Exp and Blood Exchange Introduction manual】

【New Quest: Train a disciple to be future alchemist】

【Requirements: Disciple should be able to brew Skin tempering Medicinal Cauldron with 100% accuracy】

【Rewards: 10 Exp and Book titled 'All herbs encyclopedia of Mortal realm'】

"Oh, quests came too. Good," Zani muttered, his mood completely flipping as he sat down to read about the requirements in detail.

【Ding~】

【Quest: Have 2 core disciples and 10 inner disciples, all at skin tempering realm]

[Status: Completed】

【Rewards: 20 Exp and Blood Exchange Introduction manual】

【Sect Exp: 20/100】

【Blood Exchange Introduction Manual】

【Summary: Blood Exchange is the 2nd Stage of the Body Tempering Realm. In this, a person sits beneath a roaring, heavy waterfall or inside deep underground caves where the atmospheric pressure is immense. They use specific breathing patterns to force their heart to pump against this crushing external force.

Beware: The quality of the breathing manual you practice must never exceed the one used in the first stage, or it will lead to your body's collapse. A weak shell cannot handle the more vigorous blood.

After every tempering session, if the practitioner soaks in a medicinal cauldron, the tempering speed will increase.

Extremely rare, expensive spiritual medicines can even help skip the Stage.】

"Oh, the 1st quest is completed, so fast," Zani muttered.

A small booklet materialized directly into his hands as he finished reading the summary on the screen. He was totally bewildered by how things were progressing so fast when a minute ago he was sulking over the total lack of activity from the system.

And then...

【Ding~】

【New Quest: Train a disciple to be a blacksmith】

【Requirement: Disciple must be able to forge a weapon】

【Rewards: 10 Exp and book on 'All metal encyclopedia of Mortal realm'】

"Come on, I was reading the summary," Zani complained as the new quest notification hid the previous panel, rudely interrupting his reading. But he was currently so happy that even his complaining came in a sweet, lighthearted tone.

A while later, after carefully sorting everything out and closing the panels, Zani tapped his chin.

"This system always gives out weird quests. Now, how should I go about training a blacksmith? Should I send some inner disciples to apprentice under one...?"

After thinking about it for a bit, he dismissed the idea. It was much better to simply hire a professional blacksmith directly.

Clenching his fist, he made a firm decision. "I will host a tournament just like before, earn a shit ton of money, and gain a blacksmith in the process!"

"Then I can even open a store to sell stuff, earning even more money."

Talking about money, the reality is that the gym is currently barely afloat.

First, Zani had spent the vast majority of his funds on the massive construction. Then, many outer disciples had left due to the price increase. Lastly, their daily expenses had drastically increased with more disciples entering the skin tempering realm.

It does not only increase their herb purchase expenses for the medicinal cauldrons, but also the meat and other food supplies needed in the kitchen, because strong people eat vastly more.

The only reason they were still afloat was because after the mud boar hunt where they had killed the Fist Bandits, Zani has started visiting the mountains more often, even purchasing high-grade information on the territories of wild tigers and bears. Hunting them wasn't much difficult, and it earned quite a bit of money. So why not?

For a while now, Zani has wanted to open a dedicated store which can double as an eatery too. In a way, he can use his two treasured chefs to earn a profit for him, and maybe even train some inner disciples under them as helpers.

With a blacksmith added to the mix, the business idea could work perfectly.

After thinking some more, refining and detailing the plan, he finally settled it down. It couldn't be implemented currently due to their tight funds, but the plan was completely ready to start once he had enough starting capital.

Exiting his room, Zani was entirely back to his usual, confident self.

The first thing he did was walk straight into the kitchen and order a grand feast to be prepared for dinner. They still had not celebrated the completion of the construction, so now was a good time. More importantly, tonight he was going to officially reveal the existence of the Skin Tempering Breathing Manual (the Bronze Stage) to the outer disciples.

While increasing the monthly tuition fee by 50 copper coins, he would also announce the official upgrade of the gym into a legitimate Dojo.

Walking into the main hall, he spotted a familiar figure trying to sneak into the kitchen. "Elisi, can you go get Leo and the twins for me? I have some instructions for you all."

"Ok, Master..." Elisi sighed. Having sneaked inside the kitchen area to see if she could steal something to eat, she was caught red-handed by Zani and could only reluctantly agree. Although she wasn't the biggest eater in the establishment right now, she was still the most mischievous.

After a short while, all four teenagers were standing in a straight line in front of him. Looking up, Zani activated his upgraded eye, and the message floating over their heads vividly changed.

【Talented in Dark arts】

【Explanation: The girl is born with an exceptional physique which lets her cultivate fast. But her true potential can only be unleashed if she becomes one with Darkness】

DARK ARTS!! Zani could only stare blankly at the text over Leo's head. Will she become a literal witch in the future? Does this world even have witches?

Gulping audibly, Zani made a firm mental note to always be good to her. Then, he turned his head toward the other talents standing in the room.

The twins, Pedi and Peda, are both talents recognized by the system. When he had first found out, he had been absolutely delighted to have gained such treasures.

【Talented in eating】

【Explanation: They share the bloodline of Devouring demons. The more they eat, the better they are at doing anything. With their bellies full, they can rival any genius in their field.】

Demons? Zani gulped again, his inner self taking a hit. This world also has demons! Thinking about it a bit more, he realized that although these twins are incredibly fast at building their basic foundations, they still aren't anywhere near as fast as Leo's absurd breakthrough.

Does that mean talents also have ranks or tiers? Before Zani could think further into the mysteries of the system, Elisi, supposedly the Eldest Senior Sister and the only normal person in the group, impatiently interrupted him.

"Master Zani, I called them all over for you. Now, can I please go and eat something?"


_____________________________________

[Question: Dark arts? Demons? are we jumping the genre? or is the author playing a long game. A world building that starts early but only in later phases you understand what has happened.]

[Author Note: I have published till chapter 46 on my patreon. patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

After sending all four brats out to invite Village Chief Sythe and the officials from the Mayor's Manor, Zani went inside the newly completed kitchen to inspect how the feast preparations were going.

Half a Day Later

A grand feast was ongoing inside the massive kitchen, which also doubled as a dining hall. Not only were all the disciples and their parents present, but important figures from the Mayor's Manor were also there, including Mayor Salam himself.

Although the exact reason for such a banquet, one that was visibly more lavish than New Year's Eve, was not disclosed until now, the people already had some idea.

As everyone finished eating heartily and the dessert was served, Zani stood up from his seat.

"Thank you, everyone, for presenting yourselves here today on such short notice. Please accept my deepest gratitude." He expressed his courtesy toward everyone present, as these people would be the ones to witness his first official rise.

"Please, Master Zani."

"You don't need to be so humble!"

"Master..."

After a while, as everyone settled down with a light joke or two, Zani moved on to the main topic of the day.

"Today, in everyone's presence, I will announce that our gym will be called a dojo from today on. The 'Iron Core Dojo'."

Although most of the guests anticipated this, it was still a heavy surprise. Because although declaring oneself a dojo is one thing, getting officially acknowledged as one is completely different. It needs vastly more than mere words; an official dojo must have the true capability to produce martial artists.

"Master Zani, does that mean our gym, I mean, dojo, has a breathing manual?" A new outer disciple from the city, who had just joined the gym to build his foundation, spoke up first.

While the village elders and merchants might think twice before asking such a blunt question, children do not have this limitation. So, everyone not in the know could only look at Zani with bated anticipation.

Currently, Grains City only has one dojo remaining in active business, with the Swift Leg and Mountain Shaking Fist dojos completely closed down.

Thus, with the Mayor's Manor only accepting exceptional talents, the Earth Shield Dojo ruthlessly increased their prices. It was becoming hard to continue continue on martial path in Grains city.

"It's a Mid-Grade manual, called Bronze Skin," Zani answered calmly.

Some nodded in deep respect upon hearing that, while others started asking each other in confusion, What's the matter with these manual ranks?

"Master Zani, would you also be teaching martial techniques?" the same boy asked again. Perhaps the sudden attention he was getting hyped him up, because he was standing confidently on his seat now, completely unlike before when he asked the first question.

Zani had already thought of this. Although he does not possess a martial technique manual right now, purchasing a one from a capital city is very easy.

"On the martial path, foundation comes first. So, only when a disciple has progressed halfway through the Skin Tempering realm will they be taught a martial technique."

After patiently answering a few more questions like this and exchanging a few goodwill toasts and congratulations, the guests finally started departing. Just as Mayor Salam and his people were also about to depart, Zani stopped them.

"Mayor Salam, can we have a private talk?"

"Master Zani, please lead the way," Salam replied instantly.

Settling down at a far-end table where no one could listen to them, they started talking.

"First of all, Mayor Salam... here." Zani slid a handwritten book across the polished table to the mayor.

"What is... a 3rd Stage Mid-Grade breathing manual?!" The Mayor sucked in a cold breath, staring at the exact thing he had been desperately searching for for more than a decade now. "What do you need in exchange, Master Zani?"

"Nothing. It is the favor you asked of me; I simply fulfilled it. But, there is one thing..."

"Yes?"

"Mayor, only you can practice this, and it must absolutely not be passed on to anyone else. You see..."

As Zani was trying his best to explain the reason, the truth was vastly more complicated. It was Leo who brought this manual with her, and although according to her, it is the least used manual, it is still the exclusive property of the Cuby Clan. So, it would be extremely bad if many people started practicing it.

But before Zani could even start his elaborate bluff, Salam violently interrupted him. "I understand completely, Master Zani! Just give me an hour... no, half an hour! I will memorize it right away!"

Although completely bewildered by the mayor's sudden dramatic tone, Zani laughed it off.

"Mayor, there is no need to stress yourself. You can come tomorrow, or as many times as you want, to read this in peace."

After a bit of back and forth, it was decided that he would return tomorrow to continue reading. But right before the official left, Zani told him about the grand Forge Competition that he plans to hold.

"Master Zani, sorry to be blunt. But it's impossible to hold this competition," Salam sighed.

"Why?"

"Because unlike cooking, where many common people can relate and even local housewives participated, only professionals can compete in forging. The audience turnout will also be extremely low, and the money needed to hold it will be almost five times what we spent last time. Moreover, The Iron Core compound cannot work as a venue; a forging stage needs to be vastly bigger."

"Hmm, what you said represents my worries too, Mayor Salam. That is why I am asking if we can somehow spread the competition news throughout the empire, or at the very least, to half of the major cities."

Salam started thinking deeply on that matter. Well, if an Immortal states he is the main judge for the event, the news will spread by itself. Should I tell Master Zani to let his backer handle it himself?

Thinking for a bit, he immediately dismissed the thought. What if Zani is trying to fulfill the command of the Immortal entirely on his own to increase his personal importance?

"Master Zani, if you need my help in any way, please tell me," Salam declared firmly.

"Hmm, thank you, Mayor."

Saying so, both men stood up. The mayor bid farewell and left but after few minutes he came back, he seemed to have remember something.

"Master Zani. By any chance, do you have disciples that are below eighteen years of age and have already entered the Skin Tempering realm?"

"Yes."

"Great! Then, Master Zani, would you be interested in joining us for Warrior City?"

"Warrior City?" Zani asked, tilting his head.

"Yes. For the grand Annual Martial Tournament..."

___________________________________

[Question: Are you ready for some action?]

 

[Pind_Ala]

The first month of the year passed.

Early morning.

Walking across the bustling main hall of the dojo, Zani's hands were clasped firmly behind his back as he calmly observed the practicing disciples.

Many new faces have eagerly joined their ranks after the official news about their upgrade to a legitimate dojo spread throughout the region, successfully bringing the active disciple count up to thirty-eight. This expansion not only elevates their social status, but it also heavily helps the dojo financially.

"Master Zani, am I doing it correctly?" a new, recently recruited disciple asked, struggling to hold a heavy iron barbell steady.

Before Zani could even turn toward the young boy to personally guide his form, an older senior disciple smoothly stepped in and took over the instruction.

"Junior brother, do not disturb Master over such trivial things," the senior disciple chided firmly. "Let me help you adjust your stance."

Nodding his head in silent approval, Zani continued his slow stroll. The immense capital and effort he spent to nurture the inner circle has started paying off a long time ago, and this simple interaction just proves that investing in them was the right decision after all. In the future, these loyal senior students will naturally become the official sect elders or head instructors.

But remembering how exceptionally difficult it is for some of the ordinary youths to even break through to the initial Bronze Skin stage, Zani could only secretly lament. I must actively scout for more naturally talented people.

Currently, Leo is already one-third of the way into the advanced Jade Skin stage, while Zani himself has barely entered the initial threshold of the exact same realm. Meanwhile, all the other inner disciples, including Lady Tassy's twins, have successfully broken through into the standard Iron Skin stage. However, the cultivation progress of everyone has noticeably slowed down now.

According to his estimates, natural monsters like Leo and the twins can easily reach the peak of the Jade Skin stage and safely break through to the next Body tempering stage on their own.

While he, Elisi, and Julian will require a huge influx of resources and at most a full year of grueling training to accomplish the same feat. And the others? The remaining inner disciples and Lady Tassy will be lucky to even enter the initial Jade Skin threshold; if they somehow do, breaking through, the realm beyond that will become entirely impossible for them.

Only top-tier talents such as Leo and the twins, who are being meticulously nurtured from the very start of their journey, will eventually help him upgrade the Iron Core Dojo into a true sect one day.

Strolling and thinking deeply, Zani eventually ended up outside the main hall.

STUCK. THUCK. THUD.

Since the process of skin tempering has been made public to all the disciples, there is no longer any need to cramp everyone up in the little hidden space behind the main hall. So, the primary training ground for the advanced disciples has been completely moved to the font of main hall.

Although Zani still practices his own skin tempering sessions in that exact same secluded backyard, after all, he cannot simply get beaten with iron rods in front of everybody, that will put a stain on his reputation.

Moving forward, he continued to closely inspect their intense training as well.

This morning inspection is a rigorous routine he does daily, starting all the way from the main hall's weights down to the distant boar pens. As the Master, he has to carefully inspect everything under his jurisdiction. After that concludes, there is his highly anticipated tea time.

Sitting under the open sky and watching the energetic disciples train, Zani daily has his warm tea while sitting just around the main entry door of the dojo. This peaceful tea break also conveniently works as his daily business meeting with the hunters.

"Master Zani."

"Brother Teer, welcome. It's been a while since you last visited," Zani greeted warmly.

Elisi's father just smiled sleepily, wiping the cold sweat from his brow as he pulled a heavy wooden cart inside the gates. Resting on top of the cart was the massive corpse of a wild boar, along with several bundles of freshly harvested mountain herbs.

"Father! You actually caught a wild boar this time? You are not hurt anywhere, are you?" Elisi gasped, running forward. Lately, Zani has been intentionally teaching the basic elements of logistics and trade work to Elisi, so she can help handle these daily transactions for him.

As the girl went forward to talk to her father, Zani offered a subtle nod toward Lady Tassy, who was sitting quietly along with him near the tea table. "Lady Tassy, please inspect the goods."

"Yes, Master."

Lady Tassy stood up, walking over to the cart. After making sure that the boar corpse was killed not long ago and meticulously checking the freshness and quality of the herbs, she walked back and reported her findings. "Everything is perfectly fresh."

"Hmm."

Taking the handwritten list of things brought from the mountains, Zani called Elisi back over to the table. Right in front of her, he started carefully pricing each item out loud, explaining the economic reasoning behind every coin.

"This one here is pika grass, Elisi," Zani murmured, pointing to a green stalk. "We constantly use it as a core ingredient for our skin tempering medicinal cauldrons, so the dojo always needs it in high volumes. Thus, we pay a little extra copper for it to incentivize the hunters. And this one is..."

After noting down and pricing everything on the cart, Zani called out to the hunter, who was standing proudly at the side, watching his daughter handle affairs. "Brother Teer, your total payment amounts to exactly 82 copper coins."

Seeing the man's proud expression, Zani turned and told Elisi to go and explain the entire pricing breakdown to her father herself as a quick practical test.

After half an hour of sitting by the gates, during which a dozen different local hunters arrived to trade their wilderness spoils, the purchasing part of the day was finally over.

If everything continues progressing smoothly, this entire logistical responsibility will be completely passed on to Elisi in at most half a month.

After that came Zani's personal training time.

"Leo, you can increase the weight a little bit more."

"Ok."

Like always, Leo was helping him train in the secluded area behind the main hall. Since the entire dojo currently only possesses a single 9th-Grade Artifact rod, and there are now many practitioners who have successfully entered the skin tempering realm, the artifact is only ever used by a select few people. The logistics of sharing it are so tedious that at one time, Zani had even thought to simply sell the rod off.

After their intense training session and the subsequent medicinal recovery bath concluded, lunch was served.

Sitting at the main table in the bustling kitchen, Zani quietly watched as everyone heartily enjoyed their midday meal.

"The dumplings are incredibly good today," a slurred whisper drifted across the room. "If only I could somehow get just one more serving..."

Zani could only shake his head in sheer wonder upon overhearing the quiet complaint by mistake. These twins... He has honestly never seen them look truly satisfied. There is always a bottomless, ravenous hunger lingering deep in their eyes whenever they look at food. Even during the grandest banquets, long after they stop eating, their gazes never leave the remaining dishes.

After lunch concluded, it was time for the daily teaching session.

Since the past week, Zani has started strictly teaching the complex brewing process of the Skin Tempering Medicinal Cauldron solution to Lady Tassy. The reason for choosing her out of everyone else is simple: since she can already cook masterfully and control a kitchen fire with exceptional precision, she should theoretically be able to brew volatile medicine with the same dexterity. And he was right.

On their very second batch, there was a clear success. But achieving the flawless, 100% success rate required by the system is still a little far off. At most, a single week of dedicated practice more, and the alchemist quest will be completed; he is entirely sure of it.

"Lady Tassy, I think there was a slight delay in adding the mud boar coating," Zani pointed out, staring into the bubbling cauldron.

"Huh? Again?" Lady Tassy groaned, wiping her brow. "It always comes down to wrong timing at the end. But I think this batch is still a success, Master."

It sure does look like a functional medicine to the eye, but Zani knows from his experience that a tiny portion of the sediment will inevitably attach to the bottom, making it a failure according to the system's strict evaluations.

The reality is, even Zani himself has not achieved a 100% success rate yet; his own personal brewing accuracy fluctuates somewhere near 80 to 90 percent.

The primary reason for choosing her to learn this craft is to complete the system's quest as soon as possible, and she can later pass on the skill to her twins.

To take over her heavy duties in the dojo's main kitchen, Zani has already officially assigned four inner disciples under Julian to serve as kitchen assistants.

Time passed smoothly.

The evening training session arrived, followed by a hearty dinner, and finally, it was time for sleep.

Before closing his eyes, as Zani lay in his bed calculating the dojo's current funds and looking over their financial sheets, a sudden realization struck his mind.

Oh right... Zani thought, his eyes widening slightly in the dark room. We are officially leaving for Warrior City in two days...

________________________________

[Question: Such peaceful reading... Should I add a few more such chapters after some breaks. Chapters which pause and left you see things clearly for a movement.
Binge readers would say yes.
So what about you my precious regulars.]

[Author Note: Binge read the next twelve chapters on my patreon. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

If only my voice was good. I could have sung a song right now.

Zani sighed inwardly as the monotonous rhythm of hooves vibrated through his legs. A herd of sturdy horses moved fast along the dirt road, kicking up small clouds of dust as they maintained a steady pace.

Each powerful beast carries a traveler or two, their cloaks fluttering lightly in the wind. The small caravan officially departed from Grains City three days ago, and after hours of enduring the uneven terrain, they are currently a single day's distance away from their final destination: Warrior City.

Zani felt thoroughly hungry and exhausted from the relentless travel when a sharp shout suddenly echoed from the front of the line.

"There's an inn up ahead! We will stay the night here!"

A collective wave of relief washed through the riders. Minutes later, the travelers arrived at the establishment, passing the reins of their tired horses over to the waiting stable caretakers before eagerly walking through the main entrance.

In total, the traveling group consists of eleven people. The official leader being none other than Mayor Salam. Apart from the ruler of Grains City, the caravan includes three members from the Mayor's Manor, two representative martial artists from the Earth Shield Dojo, and lastly, five members from the Iron Core Dojo, including Zani himself.

Strictly speaking, this was the first time Zani had ever ridden a horse in his entire existence. As a transmigrator from modern Earth, the concept of equestrian travel is completely foreign to his previous life. However, since the young boy whose body he now occupies already knew the basics of riding, Zani effortlessly inherited the muscle memory.

In the Earth Dragon Empire, horses are the primary method for fast overland travel. Consequently, a law of this empire dictates that every youth is strictly taught the art of horse riding when they turn ten years old.

Stepping inside the compound, Zani observed that the inn is a rather humble, rustic establishment.

The architecture features a distinct U-shaped building, with a small, half-open kitchen operating at the far end. One entire side of the courtyard is fully devoted to the stables, while the opposite wing contains rows of standard rooms for rent. Dozens of weathered wooden benches and tables are set out in the central open air to accommodate eating guests.

At the very least, the central dining area looks exceptionally clean, even if a faint smell of horse manure and wet straw lingers in the air.

"Welcome to the Uppo Inn, honored travelers," the innkeeper greeted warmly, bowing low as the group approached. "How can I help you today...?"

As Mayor Salam and the Earth Shield representative stepped forward to handle the logistical orders for food and rent the rooms for the night, Zani took the opportunity to call his four accompanying disciples over to a corner table.

Initially, Zani had wanted all thirteen of his sponsored inner disciples to travel alongside him to witness the grand event. However, their parents refused to let their children venture so far from home. In the end, only four were selected to come: Leo, who does not need to ask anyone for permission; Elisi, whose stubbornness is a force her father simply cannot refuse; and the twins, whom Lady Tassy entrusted to Zani's personal care.

Zani looked at the teenagers, crossing his arms. "How are you all feeling?"

"I am completely starving, Master," Peda groaned, dropping his head onto the table.

"Can we please have something to eat right now...?" Pedi chimed in instantly, her stomach letting out a loud rumble.

The fourteen-year-old twins look and speak exactly like a pair of hungry demons, making Zani secretly wonder if their devouring bloodline is actively draining their energy reserves.

In contrast, the two girls were significantly more cheerful, though Zani could still clearly see the underlying physical tiredness in their slouching posture.

"The massive lake we passed an hour ago... I really wanted to jump in and swim in it," Elisi giggled, her eyes shining with youthful energy. "Can we please stop there while we are returning home, Master? Please...?"

Leo sat quietly beside her, her face hidden behind her veil as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other, her silent movements betraying her fatigue.

"Zani, the food is delivered! Come, let's eat," Mayor Salam called out from a large central table, effectively bringing the conversation to an end.

The group gathered around the steaming platters, and after enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal, they went to sleep.

Although they were safely resting inside a public inn, a fundamental truth of the martial world dictates that one must always maintain caution when traveling outside one's home territory. To ensure their safety, the four adult experts in the delegation took turns holding a strict night watch, dividing the dark hours into two separate shifts in pairs.

When the time arrived for the second watch, Zani was quietly awoken by a nudge to his shoulder.

Stepping out into the cool night air, Zani moved toward a wooden table sitting directly under the pristine moonlight, just outside the rented rooms. Salam was already seated there, pouring a cup of lukewarm tea. Zani sat down across from him, the silence of the courtyard broken only by the distant, rhythmic breathing of the sleeping horses.

"Mayor, can I ask you something a bit personal?" Zani inquired quietly, breaking the midnight stillness.

Salam offered a knowing, slightly amused smile as he set his teacup down. "Let me guess. You want to ask why the official delegation of Grains City is traveling like ordinary merchants on horseback, and not inside a luxurious carriage or surrounded by an imposing vanguard of armored cavalry. Am I right?"

Having his internal thoughts so effortlessly seen through by the politician made Zani feel a little embarrassed, but he still gave a slow, honest nod in the end.

"Hahaha! There is no need to embarrass yourself, Zani," Salam laughed softly, shaking his head. "To be completely frank, this is a question I am asked quite a few times. Well, the reality is simple. No matter how imposing or powerful I might appear within the city walls of Grains City, I am, at the end of the day, merely the mayor of the smallest city in the entire empire."

Salam leaned back against his wooden chair, his gaze drifting up toward the crescent moon. "Traveling across cities with an elite entourage requires an astronomical amount of money. If I were to luxury-spend our treasury on a grand cavalry escort, or take a few of my most capable guards away, it would leave Grains City completely defenseless against bandit raids or rogue dojos. Moreover, this annual trip is important to me. The Annual Martial Tournament attracts powerful representatives from all over the kingdom, even from the capital city itself."

The Mayor turned his gaze back to Zani, his eyes reflecting a deep, unvarnished sincerity. "This tournament is the only chance I get in a full year to broaden my horizons and scout new talent. So, traveling humbly like this is the only viable option we have. But don't you dare look down on Grains City, young man. I am the mayor of the smallest city, not the poorest."

"Hahaha! Once we arrive tomorrow, you will see many poor rogue martial artists who cover the entire distance on foot just to participate in this tournament."

Although it was Salam doing nearly all the talking during the midnight watch, Zani was more than fine with that arrangement.

After these consecutive days of traveling closely together on the road, sharing meals and facing the elements, the two men had genuinely become friends. Because of this newfound closeness, Zani knows the mayor's personality incredibly well by now.

The man has a distinct psychological habit, almost a phobia, of explaining things in extreme, over-detailed depth whenever he is asked a simple question.

Well, his rambling at least helps the time pass quickly, so whatever, Zani thought, amused.

Thinking so, Zani smiled behind his cup and asked the next question that popped into his mind, casually expanding on the topic. In his quest for information, he made a firm decision to get significantly closer to the mayor, a decision that he will come to deeply regret later on.

Eventually, the dark sky softened, and dawn broke over the horizon. After having a quick breakfast and gathering their belongings, they mounted their rested steeds and began moving fast on the road once more.

The next stop: Warrior City.



_________________________________________

[Question: What do you like

A. Mountain

B. Beach

C. A peaceful village

D. your room]

[Author Note: Please share the story with you friends or in forms and I will post an extra chapter tomorrow]

 

[Pind_Ala]

The Earth Dragon Empire has seven major cities within its borders.

Warrior City ranks second to last, sitting just above Slaughter City. However, as one actually walks through its sprawling, bustling streets, taking in the towering pagodas and lavish commercial establishments, one can say that in comparison, Grains City is nothing more than an overgrown village.

Zani was sitting in one of the most expensive, highly rated restaurants in the city center.

"This is so good..." Pedi groaned, practically inhaling a massive plate of roasted spirit-fowl.

"Elisi, pass that bowl to me! Let me try it!" Peda demanded, reaching his greasy hands across the polished table.

"No way! Absolutely not!" Elisi shot back, aggressively slapping the twin's hands away with her chopsticks. "The rest of this meat is specifically for Leo and Master Zani. You two have already eaten three whole chickens!"

The novel, relaxing experience of eating high-quality cuisine after days of exhausting travel... completely ruined by these ravenous brats again, Zani sighed inwardly, shaking his head. Forced to step in as the mediator once more, Zani distributed the remaining food to prevent a full-blown brawl from breaking out inside the restaurant.

After their bellies were fully satisfied, the group leisurely strolled through the vibrant night streets. Currently, it is officially their second day in Warrior City, and the Grand Annual Martial Tournament is scheduled to begin at dawn tomorrow. Wanting them at peak condition, Zani soon led his disciples back to the rooms allocated to the Grains City delegation to rest properly.

The Next Day

The morning air outside the massive, open-air colosseum was thick with the scent of dust and the buzz of thousands of martial artists.

Standing near the backstage entrance, Zani looked down at his four disciples. "Do your best out there today. But remember, the final outcome does not matter. Prioritize your safety."

"Okay, Master!" Elisi nodded firmly.

"I will definitely win so I can buy more food!" Peda cheered.

After leaving the confident disciples in the staging area, Zani smoothly navigated his way through the massive crowds to find his reserved seat in the VIP audience section. By the time he successfully sat down beside Mayor Salam, the opening lot-drawing ceremony was already proceeding on the grand central stage.

"Participants, please gather in your respectively numbered arenas!" a booming, artificially amplified voice echoed through the stadium.

Zani's eyes narrowed slightly in sheer interest. Unlike the humble culinary competition they had hosted back in the village, where Chief Sythe was forced to shout at the top of his lungs until his throat turned raw, the officials here are utilizing something the locals call an 'Immortal Artifact.'

"You seem highly nervous, Zani," Mayor Salam noted, finally deciding to nudge the young dojo master with his elbow before laughing out loud. "Hahaha! Don't you worry! I already told you, you are incredibly lucky this year. With the recent changes, your disciples might actually secure a spot in the top 10!"

Zani chuckled lightly along with the politician before remembering their previous conversation. "Oh, did you finally find out the reason behind the sudden rule change?"

"Sure I did," Salam whispered, leaning closer. "And just as I suspected... it was done to accommodate the infamous black sheep of the royal family. The 3rd Prince is participating."

When Zani had first organized this trip, his primary goal was to simply broaden his disciples' horizons and expose them to the wider world, rather than actually winning the tournament. After all, the Mayor himself had clearly informed Zani that last year's top 10 roster consisted entirely of 3rd-Stage Body Tempering experts. These are youths possessing more raw power than the Mayor himself.

Since this is a premier, Empire-level tournament where all the top-tier geniuses and rogue experts from across the empire congregate, the overall power scaling is absurd. Even casual sightings of Immortals sitting in the high-audience boxes are not uncommon here. There is absolutely no way that a 13-year-old Leo, despite her talent, can successfully conquer 18-year-old veterans.

But everything had violently shifted when they were registering their names yesterday. Apparently, due to an order from above, the entire structure of the tournament was suddenly reformed. Instead of a single 'Under 18' bracket, the competition is now divided into two distinct age groups: 'Under 15' and 'Under 20'.

This sudden, highly convenient separation gave Zani immense hope that his young disciples could actually sweep the board.

Currently, looking down from the stands, his beliefs are only strengthening.

Down in Arena 4, Leo is standing completely alone, her veil fluttering lightly in the wind. Scattered across the stone floor all around her are a dozen older participants, all lying unconscious. She has dominated the mass selection round without even breaking a sweat.

"Perhaps you are entirely right, Mayor," Zani spoke calmly, a confident smile touching his lips as he continued watching the other rings.

After some time, Elisi also stands fiercely victorious in her respective ring, quickly followed by Peda.

The sprawling stadium floor currently holds 20 independent stages. This efficient setup allows the judges to ruthlessly filter out the weak and finalize the Top 20 roster in a single hour. After the mass eliminations conclude, the brutal 1-on-1 knockouts will begin, ultimately followed by a round-robin format for the Top 5 finalists.

Right now, only one stage remains occupied. Unlike the other rings where chaotic free-for-all brawls took place, Arena 12 is dead silent. A large group of youths, including Pedi, are cautiously circling a single, stoic boy standing directly in the center.

The moment Zani laid eyes on the lone youth, his eyes naturally narrowed.

【Talented in Strength】

【Summary: A direct descendant of the Berserker Demon. Possesses the potential to fully awaken his bloodline further.】

Another demon descendant?! Zani's heart skipped a beat. This is not the first 'Talented' individual Zani has spotted in the stadium today; he has already identified three others in the crowd, but they all belong to the older, Under 20 bracket. This boy is the only Talented in the Under 15 batch besides Leo and the twins.

"Mayor Salam, who exactly is that boy standing in the center?" Zani asked, pointing toward the ring.

Down below, the tense standoff finally broke. Within a few seconds, the fight was over before it even began.

"Hmm. That boy?" Salam sighed heavily, stroking his beard. "He is the person I was just telling you about. The 3rd Prince..."

"Excuse me. Let me go fetch my student," Zani interrupted, standing up from his seat before the Mayor could launch into a massive, historical explanation of the royal family's lineage.

After the mass selection rounds concluded, an hour break was announced to allow the laborers to set up the main combat stage.

Previously, the annual tournament always lasted for three full days, but due to the new divisional reforms, the Under 15 bracket will be entirely concluded today, allowing the older Under 20s to stretch their matches over the remaining time.

Entering the backstage, Zani found his disciples huddling in a corner.

"Pedi, wake up! Are you alright?!"

"Waaah! My dear sister, I will avenge you!" Peda wailed dramatically, throwing his body over his unconscious twin. "Do not worry! In the future, I will bravely bear the heavy burden of eating your share of the food!"

SMACK.

Seeing the three brats actively messing with the unconscious girl, Zani's patience snapped. He ruthlessly smacked Peda on the back of the head, unleashing his frustration on the only male student of the group.

"Ouch! Master, what was that for?!" Peda yelled, "Why is it always me?! Can't you see Leo?! She was poking Pedi's cheek with her foot!"

"No. I am not," Leo replied instantly, her voice perfectly calm and aristocratic behind her veil.

"Enough! Both of you, do not make a scene in front of the others," Zani hissed, aware of the strange gazes being directed at their corner by rival dojos. He hurriedly dragged them away toward a private resting tent.

After some time...

"Let me eat some more! I lost, so I need to recover faster!" Pedi demanded, snatching at a roasted leg.

"No! Give me my chicken back! I actually passed the round, so I need the energy to fight soon!" Peda snapped back, pulling the plate away.

"This is getting way too much now. SHUT UP!" Elisi roared, rubbing her temples. Throughout the entire journey, the twins have constantly bickered and even now, facing the tournament, they simply cannot stop. Elisi watched them fiercely pulling on a single piece of meat and realized that only Aunt Tassy possesses the true maternal aura required to suppress these gluttons.

COUGH.

Clearing his throat loudly to command everyone's attention, Zani's expression turned serious.

"Listen to me carefully," Zani ordered, locking eyes with Elisi, Peda, and Leo. "If any of you encounter that boy in your upcoming 1-on-1 knockout matches, do not fight him."

Hearing this strict command, Pedi rubbed her bruised chest and nodded vigorously in agreement. She had felt the sheer, crushing impact firsthand; the boy is functionally a monster, possessing strength far stronger than Senior Sister Leo.

"No way!" Peda protested instantly, his fighting spirit refusing to yield. "Master, if I draw him, I will not give up! I will try my best to deplete his physical energy so Leo or Elisi can beat him later!"

It was a surprisingly tactical, self-sacrificing plan. But Zani absolutely refused it.

"No. You will do exactly as I say," Zani commanded, his tone leaving absolutely no room for debate. He then offered a confident smirk to calm their wounded pride. "And do not worry about the final rankings. I have a secret move. However, it can only be used once. So, you will all preserve your strength, and we will collectively defeat him during the final round-robin."

"ALRIGHT!" Elisi and Peda cheered, their spirits instantly reignited by their Master's grand promise.

__________________________________

[Question: pray tell what the secret move is. Choose:

A. Push out of the stage

B. same old kick between legs

C. Super special attack: Chili bomb

D. Seduction. Ohhh youth.]

[Author note: Don't ask me if I am high while posting this. Anyway, I was just finalizing chapter 50. and let me tell you, It's going to solve one of the Mistry in most bizarre way... you will love it]

 

[Pind_Ala]

It has been three hours since the Grand Annual Martial Tournament officially began.

Currently, the brutal mass selection rounds have concluded, and the tournament is an hour into the 1-on-1 knockout games.

Up until this point, only Elisi had been called to the central stage from their side. Thankfully, her drawn opponent was relatively weak, allowing the eldest disciple to safely secure an overwhelming victory.

However, things were looking incredibly dire for Peda, whose designated number was up next.

"Now welcoming our next participants!" the announcer's voice boomed, calling the next contestants.

As Peda confidently stepped onto the stone platform, Mayor Salam leaned forward in his VIP seat, deeply furrowing his brows as he observed his opponent.

"Just as I expected... that kid is already in the Blood Exchange stage," Salam spoke his worries aloud, gently stroking his beard.

"Hmm," Zani nodded alongside, his face etched with deep worry.

"Master, what exactly is the Blood Exchange stage?"

Pedi, who had already been eliminated earlier that morning, is currently sitting right beside them in the stands. Looking at her Master's serious expression and hearing the Mayor's tone, she couldn't help but feel a sudden spike of anxiety. Is my brother in danger?

"It is the second stage of the Body Tempering realm, following the Skin Tempering stage," Zani replied calmly, keeping his eyes locked on the arena below.

"Watch the match."

Just as Zani had expected, the raw difference in strength was clearly visible. The moment the referee signaled the start, Peda was ruthlessly knocked out cold after a single exchange of blows.

Sighing softly, Zani stood up from his seat and patted the anxious girl on the shoulder. "Come. Let's go get your brother."

A short while later, both of the twins were sitting to Zani's left, silently watching the ongoing tournament while nursing their bruises. There is still quite some time left before Leo's scheduled match is set to begin.

"Master Zani, can you please tell us more about this Blood Exchange stage now?" Pedi asked.

Down in the central arena, the current, ongoing match is between two youths who both specialize in leg martial techniques. They are violently kicking and dodging, stretching the match out into a stalemate. This lull in action allow them the time to talk.

But contrary to their eager expectations, Zani firmly refused them.

"I will explain everything to all of you together later. For now, just watch the combat and learn," Zani instructed.

"Okay..."

Time passed, and the stalemate eventually ended. Finally, it was Leo's turn to enter the stage.

Her designated opponent was also a young girl, though visibly a few years older. Like usual, Leo moved with terrifying efficiency. Without speaking a single word of greeting or taunting her opponent, she blurred forward, throwing a straightforward, heavy punch directly aimed at the other girl's face.

Instead of dodging, her opponent responded likewise, meeting Leo head-on with her own glowing fist.

"Oh no...!"

A panicked voice sounded right next to Zani's ear. He turned slightly, watching Mayor Salam suddenly shoot up from his seat in sheer horror.

While Zani was silently wondering what on earth could get the man so worked up, he looked back toward the stage.

Just as he expected, the definitive winner was Leo.

CRACK!

A loud, bone-crushing sound echoed across the arena as Leo effortlessly overwhelmed her opponent with sheer, physical strength, sending the older girl flying out of bounds and knocking her completely unconscious.

"Zani, that was incredibly reckless!" Mayor Salam gasped, dropping heavily back into his seat and wiping cold sweat from his forehead.

Seeing the Master of the young girl sitting there completely unbothered, the Mayor could not help but remark on their bravery. "A few seconds late, and Leo's entire arm might have been blown completely off!"

WHAT?! Zani's heart violently stopped in his chest.

The reality is that Zani is clueless when it comes to martial techniques; he simply did not even know what had just transpired on the stage. Hearing the Mayor say something so unsavory and bloody, Zani's stoic mask almost slipped in sheer shock before he rapidly gathered his wits.

"What exactly do you mean by that, Mayor?" Zani asked softly, his tone dangerously calm.

"What do I mean?! Did you not see the other girl actively gathering energy in her arm?" Salam whispered frantically, his eyes wide. "She probably knows some kind of explosive fist martial technique! If she had successfully executed it a fraction of a second earlier..."

The Mayor deliberately left the rest of the gruesome outcome unsaid as he observed the young Dojo Master staring blankly ahead. Well, the boy is clearly still too young, Salam thought sympathetically. He has likely not seen the true horrors of the martial world yet.

However, contrary to what the panicking Mayor thought, the reality is vastly different.

The Jade Skin Tempering Manual is far from ordinary. A truth of the cultivation world dictates that the primary feature of the Skin Tempering realm is never to increase a practitioner's raw attack power, but to exponentially increase the resilience and durability of their skin. The Jade Skin manual, being a Top-Grade breathing technique, can easily negate the impact from any ordinary, low-grade martial technique!

This fundamental knowledge, although it should be common sense to any high-level expert, was completely unknown to Zani. Thus, hearing the Mayor's terrifying assessment, Zani's internal determination to purchase a martial manual for his disciples increased more than ever before.

Time passed, the brutal knockouts concluded, and the final Top 10 roster for the Under 15 bracket was officially decided, leading to a small, half-hour intermission break.

Following this, all five members of the Iron Core Dojo gathered inside their private resting tent backstage.

"Listen closely. For the next round, Leo, you are scheduled to face one of the three Blood Exchange stage experts," Zani warned, crossing his arms as he looked at the veiled girl. "So, you need to be extremely careful. Do not simply charge in blindly like you did before."

"Master..." Pedi suddenly spoke up from the side, effectively reminding Zani of his earlier, deferred promise. "The Blood Exchange stage?"

"Right," Zani nodded, shifting his gaze. "Let me tell you all about the Blood Exchange stage."

Zani took a brief moment to silently reorganize the information he had recently acquired from the System's reward before continuing with a deeply serious tone.

"No matter what specific breathing manual a person has practiced, the moment someone successfully breaks through into the Blood Exchange stage, their physical body naturally undergoes a massive qualitative evolution. They instantly gain a base increase of 100 kilograms of physical force."

Zani raised a single finger. "Furthermore, once you break through this threshold, you gain immunity to common poisons. You also gain an increase in overall stamina. Do not take this stamina increase lightly; if allowed, a martial artist of the 2nd stage can fight for three days and three nights entirely non-stop."

"Oh," Leo muttered, her eyes narrowing. "So, I should aim to finish him off as soon as possible, right?" She was fully determined to win.

But Elisi was deeply worried about her best friend's safety. "No, no! We cannot fight by skipping an entire stage! I think... you should just forfeit and give up the next match, Leo!"

"We should just use Master's secret technique!" Peda stated fiercely, slamming his fist on the table. He did not want the others to simply give up after he had just lost.

After eagerly speaking their respective opinions, all three turned their expectant gazes toward their Master, who appeared to be lost in deep thought.

"Well, it's not like Leo cannot handle her next opponent," Zani finally stated, breaking the tension.

"What does that mean, Master?" Elisi asked, blinking in confusion.

"What I mean is, I want you to first judge his strength," Zani instructed Leo directly. "If he is vastly beyond your level, you will immediately forfeit the match. If he is not... you have my permission to crush him like the others."

Zani leaned forward. "From what I have personally seen from the stands, only that 3rd Prince is someone you must be cautious of. As for the other two 2nd-stage experts... I think they probably used low or mid-grade breathing manuals for their foundations, and have only just broken through recently."

"Master, can you tell us exactly what kind of strength a person gains in this 2nd stage?" Pedi asked, highly curious about the next stage.

"Why not?" Zani smirked, stepping into his role as a supreme, all-knowing teacher. "First, you must know that the grade of the manual you can safely practice during Blood Exchange depends entirely on what grade of manual you utilized in the previous 1st stage."

Zani began listing the things one by one.

"If one uses a Low-Grade manual: it grants 350 kilograms of force at entry, and maxes out at 600 kilograms of force at its peak."

"A Mid-Grade manual: it grants 400 kilograms of force at entry, and 700 kilograms of force at peak."

"A High-Grade manual: it grants 450 kilograms of force at entry, and 800 kilograms of force at peak."

"And finally, A Top-Grade manual: it grants 600 kilograms at entry, and 1,000 kilograms of force at its peak."

Zani paused, letting the heavy numbers sink into their young minds before pointing directly at his masked disciple.

"And Leo... because you used a Top-Grade Skin Tempering breathing manual, despite still being in the 1st stage, you can exert 420 kilograms of raw force currently."

Leo nodded slightly on the side, confirming the number.

"Just be cautious. Although your opponent might not have practiced any martial techniques to progress his realm faster, the possibility that they possess one is not zero."

"Okay, Master!" Leo nodded, her fighting intent blazing.

After Zani successfully finished formulating the battle strategy with Leo, Elisi stepped forward. She looked up at him with wide, expectant eyes.

"Master... what about me?"


___________________________________________

[Question: Let's play technique naming game.
Hit me with your moves.
and take my 'Dragon leaping tornado spin ultimate kick']

[Author Note: Read till chapter 50 on my patreon. patreon.com/c/unpaid13 ]

 

[Pind_Ala]

"Eldest Senior Sister is so lucky..." Pedi grumbled, her arms crossed tightly over her chest.

Unlike her, who had been matched with the monstrous 3rd Prince right out of the gate and ruthlessly eliminated, Elisi was continuously drawing the weakest opponents in every single batch.

"Don't worry. In the final round-robin, she will eventually have to fight everyone anyway," Peda offered, watching his twin sister suffer emotionally and trying to comfort her.

"Hey, you brats. Are you cursing your Senior Sister to lose?"

Their hushed complaints were clearly overheard by their Master, who was sitting just a few seats away. What naturally followed was swift, righteous retribution: a sharp flick to both of their foreheads, accompanied by a stern, low-voiced lecture on martial virtue and proper dojo conduct.

Thankfully for the twins, the booming voice of the announcer suddenly interrupted the scolding, declaring the start of the final selection matches for the Top 5 roster.

Time passed slowly.

Only the first match dragged on for more than five minutes; the rest of the bouts were brutal, one-to-two exchange knockouts.

Elisi's second match soon arrived. Her opponent was an older youth who specialized in a rapid kicking martial art. However, remembering her Master's explicit advice to directly punch the very leg the opponent extends, she won the match after merely two exchanges.

She brutally fractured the boy's shin with her raw strength, making the completely baffled audience think she was secretly using some kind of high-grade martial technique.

Finally, the highly anticipated last match of the knockouts began.

"Leo is finally up there!" Peda cheered.

"You can do it, Senior Sister Leo!" Pedi shouted.

The previously sulking twins dropped their gloom and went into full cheering mode, aggressively supporting their veiled senior sister from the stands.

"Hmm. Good." Zani nodded in profound approval, crossing his arms. It seemed his short crash-course on dojo unity had worked wonders. Maybe I should officially add righteous virtue and peer conduct as a mandatory written rule that everyone must memorize, Zani mused inwardly.

His mind continued to drift as he focused his gaze on the stone stage below.

Currently, the Iron Core Dojo does not possess any martial combat techniques. So, on what exact basis are his disciples participating in an empire-level tournament? Their entire strategy relies solely on winning with raw, overwhelming physical strength, aiming to shatter all flowery techniques with a single, devastating punch.

To prepare them for this, during the three-day journey on the road, Zani had specifically asked Mayor Salam to physically demonstrate how martial artists throw a proper punch. Using his modern Earth knowledge, Zani had then relentlessly drilled his disciples on perfect biomechanics: proper stance, hip rotation, and absolute impact alignment.

Down on the stage, the referee dropped his hand.

The moment the match started, Leo's opponent moved directly toward her without a single word of ceremony, clearly intending to finish the bout just as quickly as the previous ones had been.

Leo, maintaining her calm, stepped backward, giving ground.

This steady retreat continued until Leo was standing right at the edge of the elevated stadium. Her opponent was still charging aggressively, leaving her no more room to evade.

"Take my Tiger's Paw!" the boy roared.

Lunging with full gusto, violently sweeping his heavily muscled arm in a wide, inescapable arc. He intentionally left Leo no room to dodge left or right.

For a seasoned martial expert, this is the exact moment to utilize a dodge roll or a shifting leg technique for an effective counter. But little Leo has spent her entire life either piloting puppets or practicing her breathing manual. She leaves all her fighting entirely to raw strength.

When he chased me all the way to the edge of the stage, his footwork was noticeably slower than my own reaction time. Meaning... I can crush him exactly like the others! Leo thought, her eyes narrowing behind her veil as she pulled her small fist back.

BOOM!

A heavy kinetic impact echoed across the arena.

The charging opponent was violently pushed back, his sweeping arm now hanging limply like a dead, broken branch at his side. Meanwhile, Leo herself teetered dangerously, almost falling backward out of the ring from the sheer recoil.

"Thankfully, I properly secured my stance," Leo gasped softly, looking down at her feet.

Her shoes had sunk halfway into the solid stage, Saved her from falling out of bounds and facing instant disqualification.

Looking back up, her opponent was standing completely still, his teeth gritted in sheer agony. He was visibly furious, yet entirely unconfident to charge at her again.

Seeing his hesitation, a dark satisfied smile formed under Leo's veil.

"If you are not going to come to me..."

Her words started as a slow, chilling whisper as she walked forward, before violently morphing into a shout full of malice and battle craze.

"...then let me COME TO YOU!"

With a final roar, she was suddenly upon him.

The boy desperately tried his best to counter with a sweeping leg kick. But the exact moment he raised his knee, the crazy small girl had already leaped into the air, her fist driving straight toward his face.

NOOOO! My beautiful face!!! the boy screamed internally, his nose shattering as his consciousness instantly faded into the dark.

"And we have our fifth and final finalist! A grand round of applause for Leo, from the Iron Core Dojo in Grains City!"

With the opponent lying unconscious on the shattered wood, the referee stepped forward, and the announcer proudly declared the results. He then officially stated there would be a one-hour intermission break before moving on to finalize the rankings of the Top 5 roster.

After an Hour Break...

The highly anticipated round-robin phase officially commenced.

The first match: Leo vs. Elisi.

"I surrender," Elisi announced immediately with a bright smile, gracefully stepping off the stage and granting Leo an effortless victory.

Currently, the Top 5 roster consists of Leo, Elisi, the terrifying 3rd Prince, a girl highly proficient in a defensive martial technique, and a boy who had broken through to the Blood Exchange realm.

The second match drawn was the 3rd Prince versus the defensive girl. In a display of sheer, overwhelming tyranny, the royal youth completely shattered her ultimate defense in two punches.

"That guy is absolutely ruthless," Peda muttered from the stands, shivering.

"I know," Pedi replied, having experience the terror first hand.

Then, the third match lit up.

"Master, next up is Sister Leo going against that Blood Exchange guy who beat Peda," Pedi said, nervously tugging at Zani's sleeve. She desperately wanted her senior sister to take revenge for their dojo, but she was also deeply worried about her getting hurt by an expert a full stage above her. "Will she actually win...?"

I am honestly more worried about the boy, Zani thought with a dry sigh. That little girl is growing increasingly violent in her fighting style. He absolutely does not approve of the brutal way she defeated her last opponent. The poor boy's face might never recover.

Down in the central arena, the fight officially started.

But unlike the last time, where the opponent aggressively chased Leo to the edge of the stage, this time both fighters were standing completely still.

Are they trying to judge each other's strength? Zani wondered, leaning forward. Nobody in the spectator stands could tell what was happening.

Down on the stage, the older boy crossed his arms, looking down at Leo's veiled face with immense arrogance.

"Show me your face," the boy commanded smoothly.

"What?" Leo asked, tilting her head.

"I said, remove that dirty veil. I want to clearly see your face," the boy demanded coldly, his tone dripping with entitlement. "Do you not know who I am? My name is Murchie Puu. I am a legitimate noble, the son of a governor, and I am graciously giving you the rare option to reveal your face to me. If I happen to like what..."

SLAP!



_____________________________

[Question: Who is the attacker.
A. Leo
B. Zani heard the discussion and decided to beat the boy himself.
C. Boy's father, the Governor himself
D. Referee who could not control himself anymore..]

[Author Note: Continue reading next 12 chapters on patreon. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

For the common people of the Earth Dragon Empire who have never laid eyes on an Immortal, the royal family is akin to heaven.

Every generation, the supreme title of Emperor naturally changes hands to a new successor, but the bloodline behind the throne remains eternally unchanged.

Currently, the ruling Emperor possesses five official heirs: three princes and two princesses. From them, one will inevitably ascend to become the next Emperor or Empress.

As for the remaining four? If they still desire the authority to rule, they can legally stand in the elections of the empire's seven major cities. If victorious, they gain the esteemed noble title of Governor.

There are exactly seven Governors, each independently managing a major city, and this high post is almost exclusively reserved for the children of nobles.

This means the entire imperial royalty system of the Earth Dragon Empire is strictly managed by a single, sprawling family. Furthermore, there is an additional rule: after the fifth generation, if a branch family fails to secure a governorship, they are stripped of their noble status and surname, entirely removed from the system.

The grand election to choose governor, are held every five years. Sometimes there are a few exceptions, miraculous occasions where a talented commoner who rose from a village chief to a city Mayor is granted the rare opportunity to participate in a Governor election, but they practically never win against the nobility's boundless resources.

"That is quite messed up. So, a single, massive family rules the entire empire by itself," Zani noted, his eyes narrowing as he digested the reality of the empire.

"Yes, that is exactly what I am saying," Mayor Salam nodded deeply, sitting beside him in the VIP stands of the colossal arena.

After gaining this confirmation, Zani could not help but think deeply about the inherent corruption of the system. But before his thoughts could wander too far into political philosophy, Salam continued his explanation.

"You do know about the century-old War of Chaos, right?" Salam asked, his eyes scanning the fighting stages below.

"Somewhat," Zani replied.

"Hmm," Salam hummed, his tone turning profound. "After that apocalyptic war, the empire spent a few years in an incredibly weak state, recovering bit by bit. During this fragile era, two massive bandit syndicates appeared, each one more dangerous than the last. One was named the Diggers, a hidden faction that still operates somewhere in the shadows of the empire today, and the other was the infamous Launda Gang."

Salam stroked his thick beard. "At that time, both gangs carved out their own massive territories, ruthlessly controlling a few cities. That is when the Launda Gang made the fatal mistake of attacking Warrior City. It is said that the Governor of Warrior City at the time was only a single step away from reaching Immortality. Seeing what might happen to his beloved citizens if he backed down, he personally led the vanguard."

Salam's eyes flashed with deep respect as he continued. "He sacrificed himself for the city. Through a terrifying mutual destruction technique, he completely annihilated the Launda Gang along with himself. The Emperor at the time was so deeply moved by him that he issued an eternal decree: Warrior City would be granted to that hero's direct descendants to manage forever. So, you can say that while every other major city goes through political leader changes, this city is the sole exception."

"Oh" Zani muttered, finally understanding the weight of the local Governor's lineage.

SLAP.

A crisp, incredibly loud sound of flesh being violently smacked echoed across the central stage, violently interrupting the Mayor's history lesson. Under the completely bewildered and disbelieving eyes of the massive audience, the noble son of the Governor, Murchie Puu, was sent flying through the air by a single slap to the face.

Five Minutes Prior...

After standing still on the stage for three whole minutes, patiently waiting for her opponent to make the first move, Leo had finally snapped and decided to strike first. But just then, her opponent started talking, saying something about her veil.

What is he getting at? Leo thought, watching the boy start sizing her up and down with vile, greedy eyes. Did he just...?!

A deep disgust flared in Leo's chest as she started moving right at that exact moment. She completely stopped caring about whatever arrogant noble nonsense he was muttering and decided to punch him to end the match quickly.

But as she rapidly closed the distance, she looked at the sheer pride with which he stood, putting all his force onto one leg in a flashy, flowery stance. Her tightly clenched fist could not help but unfurl, changing from a devastating punch into a deeply humiliating, open-handed slap.

Present Time...

After sending the Blood Exchange expert violently flying across the stage, Leo did not even bother to look at the shocked, gasping expressions around her. She was already blurring forward again to follow up her assault.

STOMP.

"Take this!" Leo shouted coldly, driving her small foot down.

"AAAHHHH!" Puu shrieked in absolute agony. He was already in sheer disbelief over being publicly slapped by a younger girl, and now his hand, his beloved, sword-wielding right hand, was being brutally crushed under her shoe.

Meanwhile, the vast audience had already erupted into a chaotic frenzy of discussion.

"Won't the Governor blame her for this?!"

"Don't worry, the Governor only ever cares about his talented daughter. He largely ignores this arrogant son."

"Still, she is so ruthless!"

"I told you to bet on her! Now we lost all our silver! It's all your fault!"

"Veiled girl! Let's go! Kill him!"

"Are you sure she is from that rural, Grains City?!"

Inside the ablaze audience, the majority of the bloodthirsty rogue experts thoroughly enjoyed the sheer violence they were witnessing. Meanwhile, Zani's small group could only amount to a few drops of worry in a massive pond, their anxious murmuring completely drowning out before it could even finish.

"The winner is Leo from the Iron Core Dojo!" the referee shouted, before hurriedly stepping forward to separate them.

Leo wanted to aggressively kick the crying man a few more times, but she was firmly stopped by the officials and escorted down the stage as the announcer formally declared her the victor.

Shortly after, the fourth match commenced.

Elisi versus the Defensive Girl.

To the disbelief of the watching twins, who were desperately hoping their Eldest Senior Sister would finally stop relying on absurd luck, her opponent was already half-conscious as she stumbled onto the stage.

Having just woken up after suffering a brutal, overwhelming beating from the 3rd Prince in the previous round, the defensive girl was seething with irrational anger. She desperately wanted to have someone share her suffering. Thus, completely ignoring her own master's frantic warnings to forfeit and recover, she had rushed onto the stage, taking the smiling Elisi as a soft, easy opponent to vent on.

"Why is it always her?!" Pedi groaned, pulling her hair in sheer frustration at her sister's luck.

"Never mess with Eldest Senior Sister," Peda whispered on the side. "You don't want a random rock that just happens to be flying through the sky to suddenly land on your head, right?"

The twins, although partially joking, were genuinely a little scared by Elisi's luck now. They made a firm, mutual decision right then and there to never spar with their senior sister ever again, because she apparently never fights a losing battle.

Their thoughts fully took shape as Elisi casually stepped forward and effortlessly crushed her exhausted opponent's highly unsteady defense with a single push. The defensive girl collapsed, exiting the tournament with a thud in 5th place.

The Next Match

This bout decided the 4th place, as the Governor's son, Puu, still nursing his crushed hand, entered the stage only to suffer another brutal, humiliating beating from the terrifying 3rd Prince. He swiftly forfeited, leaving the tournament in total disgrace.

Now, only the top three spots were left to be decided. And the impending grand match between the royal 3rd Prince and the ruthless veiled girl, Leo, was something the entire stadium was breathlessly expecting.

Although most people with sharp eyes already knew exactly who the pre-destined winner was. After all, the Under 15 bracket is specifically constructed and organized for a single person. There is absolutely no way the imperial royal family would allow that if they were not sure of that person's victory.

Thus, amidst the deafening cheers and shouts of the crowd, the true final match began.

Leo versus the 3rd Prince.


_____________________

[Question: Who will take fist place
A. Elisi
B. Leo
C. 3rd prince]

[Author Note: Support me by becoming members of my patreon. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

"Will Leo be able to do it?" Elisi thought aloud from the backstage viewing area. She was deeply worried about her friend.

If the strategy devised by Master Zani failed to work, Leo would have to forfeit the match immediately. Because against such a powerful opponent, there is simply no hope of winning otherwise.

On the central stage, the match had already begun. True to their plan, Leo initiated the conversation, a stark contrast to her usual silent approach.

"Finally, I get to meet you, Third Prince," Leo called out, her voice dripping with sweetness. "Or should I say... Earth Deol?"

Hearing her, even the referee was visibly taken aback. This girl can actually talk this sweet? he thought, completely stunned, before noticing that the young prince had stopped dead in his tracks as well.

"Can I ask you a question?" Seeing that the opening trick had succeeded, Leo pushed further.

"Go ahead," Deol replied, surprise flashing through his eyes. But the very next second, as if electrocuted, his body visibly trembled before forcedly returning to normal.

A few sharp-eyed experts in the audience caught the sudden twitch, but since it only lasted for a fraction of a second, they chose to dismiss it as pre-match nerves.

"So, Mr. Earth," Leo said, leisurely walking toward him in a wide arc. "This entire Under-15 tournament was organized just for you, wasn't it? Tell me... what do you think will happen if you lose here, to me?"

Now standing at a tactically perfect position, Leo locked her eyes onto her opponent, waiting for his response. But no voice came from the other side. The prince stood perfectly still, looking at her like a silent stone statue.

If anyone could read the boy's mind, however, they would be horrified by the war raging inside his head.

WHY, WHY, WHY?! Guardian, why are you commanding me not to lay a hand on her?! Look at this arrogant bitch standing all proud before me! I want to kill her! I want to tear her to pieces!

But the other voice in his mind was constantly warning him. According to our newest intelligence, Young Master, she is the only daughter of the Cuby Clan Patriarch! Our Earth Clan is currently the weakest among the five great cultivation clans, while the Cuby Clan sits firmly as the second strongest. We absolutely cannot afford a clan war because of your pride! Master will undoubtedly use you as a scapegoat if you even scratch a single hair on that girl's head!

Then what should I do?! Deol screamed back in his mind.

Just stand there! Let her attack you, play along with the blow, and exit the arena gracefully. You will still safely secure second place!

Nobody in the stadium knew about the frantic conversation happening behind the scenes, not even Leo. Watching the boy remain completely mute, her patience finally wore thin. In the end, she decided to go straight for the planned execution.

THUD!

The heavy sound of a sudden collapse echoed across the stage. The proud Third Prince was suddenly on his knees, his eyes bloodshot and watering as his hands desperately clenched the exact spot where Leo's lethal, strategically placed kick had just landed.

"Good! Leo did it!" Elisi's solitary cheer rang out through the completely stunned, quiet arena. It didn't take long for the painful realization to hit the crowd: the lethal crotch-shot was entirely deliberate and calculated from the very start.

Oh, shit! I asked him to take a blow, but not there! What will I do if the Young Master becomes permanently ruined because of this?!

The hidden guardian, who had been guiding the prince via voice transmission, could only curse his own lack of specific instructions, blaming himself for his young master's sudden, emasculating suffering.

On stage, after rolling around in agony for a brief moment, the Third Prince passed out from the sheer, unadulterated pain. He was quickly escorted down on a stretcher by the medical staff, ultimately disqualified from the final bout and leaving him in third place.

Thus, the final bracket settled: first place was taken by Leo, and second place belonged to Elisi.

Following the abrupt conclusion, the officials announced a short intermission so the arena staff could prepare the award ceremony for all top five participants simultaneously.

Meanwhile, the stadium grandstands were entirely ablaze with chaotic gossip.

"This girl really is vicious!"

"Such heartlessness... I feel the pain just from watching the boy suffer!"

"We want justice for men!"

"Justice!"

"Hey, wait a minute... aren't the top two girls both from that rural Iron Core Dojo? Is that place really that good?"

"Should I send my own child to Grains City to register as well?"

Back inside the secure private tent allocated to Grains City, the atmosphere was a complete contrast.

"You did well, Senior Sister Leo!"

"Yeah, that was awesome!"

The fellow disciples immediately crowded around to congratulate her. Although the smiles on Zani and Peda's faces were a bit stiff from witnessing the sheer brutality of the winning strike, they were genuinely happy for her success.

Especially Zani, as the Master, feels an immense sense of pride seeing his disciples dominate the top spots. Plus, the rewards for the tournament are highly generous. With this upcoming prize money, he can finally kickstart some of his plans ahead of schedule.

"Elisi, Leo," Zani called out smoothly, drawing their attention. "I need you two to do something for me, once you stand on that stage to accept the rewards."

Meanwhile, inside a luxurious VIP room on the upper tier of the stadium.

"Young Master! Are you truly alright? Let this subordinate call an alchemist!"

"Shut up! Of course I am alright!" Deol snapped, glaring at the shiny, bald head of his guardian who was currently kneeling before him. "It was all just a masterclass in acting! Do you really think I would allow someone to kick me there? The exact movement she lifted her leg, I deduced her vile intentions and instantly covered the area with the Iron Sheet technique!"

Despite his bold claims, the prince's voice still pitched a little higher than usual. He quickly shifted the focus to preserve his remaining dignity. "More importantly... how is it that you only discovered her true identity when we were about to face each other on stage?! Were you deliberately waiting for me to embarrass myself?!"

"I dare not, Young Master!" the guardian stammered, his forehead pressing against the cold floor. "At first, I was merely suspicious because she was carrying an artifact that could block my Spiritual Sense. Whose very existence means that the child belongs to a Cultivator lineage. I immediately ordered a search through our intelligence archives, but it was only when she spoke on stage just now that I was absolutely certain."

Seeing his protector display such absolute submission dismissed the worst of the seething anger in the prince's chest. He leaned back against the silk cushions. "So, what's her deal? Why is the young miss of the Cuby Clan hiding in a mortal dojo?"

The guardian straightened up slightly to report. "Her name is Cuby Leo. According to the clan records, right after her birth, the primary physician on the scene suddenly screamed that the child was a witch and attempted to assassinate her. Patriarch Cuby was present and easily subdued the attacker, saving the infant's life."

The guardian paused, his voice turning grim. "But that doctor was a hidden disciple of the renowned Master Poison Bee. Even though the assassination failed, the blade had left a tiny scratch laced with a devastating, burning venom. Although the Patriarch utilized his profound cultivation to purge the toxin and save her life, the horrific scar left behind on her face can never be removed."

"This scar eventually became Lady Leo's deepest emotional trauma," the guardian explained. "She began hiding her face behind a veil, completely avoiding all cultivator gatherings out of fear that an expert will bypass the fabric using Spiritual Sense. Our last report indicated she had returned home for the New Year, but it appears she now permanently resides inside this so-called Iron Core Dojo."

"Interesting, guardian tell all about this Dojo..."

______________________________

[Question: What does Zani asked the two girls to announce on stage.
It's mentioned previously in story, so you might know...]

[Author Note: Hope you are enjoying the story so far, with this chapter I have explained most of the power structure at empire level. If you have any quarries, feel free to ask.]

 

[Breezely Bear]

THUD!

The heavy sound of a sudden collapse echoed across the stage. The proud Third Prince was suddenly on his knees, his eyes bloodshot and watering as his hands desperately clenched the exact spot where Leo's lethal, strategically placed kick had just landed.

Click to shrink...

It's here! The famed Sacred Jewel-destroying Technique: Generational Destruction!

 

[Pind_Ala]

Inside the Governor's office, a tense silence hung heavily in the air.

"Mister Governor, the reward ceremony is about to begin. Will you be attending?"

"No."

The Governor sat rigidly in his high-backed chair, both hands tightly pressing against his temples. He appeared to be completely submerged in deep, suffocating thought.

As the retainer bowed, turning around to excuse himself from the room, a chilling voice suddenly echoed from the main desk. "Tell me. Did the Third Prince take any action?"

The retainer froze, his breath catching in his throat. "N... No, Your Excellency."

"How disappointing... It looks like the rumors are true. The Third Prince really is a spineless fool," the Governor muttered, pushing himself up from his seat. He slowly walked toward the trembling retainer, eventually stopping right in front of him before placing a heavy hand onto the man's shoulder.

"We must take matters into our own hands. Do exactly as I say. After all, my precious son was hurt." The Governor's grip tightened, a sinister light flashing through his eyes as he whispered his decree. "There must be retribution."

With a swift nod, the terrified retainer hurried out to carry out his master's will.

Meanwhile, over in the VIP stands, Zani and the twins were back in their designated seats. They remained standing in their places, watching the grand opening of the tournament's award ceremony unfold down below.

Right then, a familiar sound chimed inside Zani's mind.

[Ding~]

[Quest: Train a disciple to be future alchemist]

[Requirements: Disciple should be able to brew Skin Tempering Medicinal Cauldron with 100% accuracy]

[Rewards: 10 Exp and Book titled 'All herbs encyclopedia of Mortal realm']

[Status: Completed]

[Exp: 30/100]

[All herbs encyclopedia of Mortal realm available. Click to retrieve.]

Down on the central stage, the announcer was already projecting his voice to address the crowd, but the sudden influx of glowing blue system notifications caused Zani to lose all focus on the external world.

Oh, looks like Lady Tassy has finally mastered the Medicinal Cauldron. Good. Zani smiled inwardly, feeling a surge of pride. And as for this book... the System did not provide any summary this time. I will retrieve it after returning to the dojo. For now, let's see what is happening on the stage.

Shifting his focus back to reality, Zani directed his attention to the center of the stadium.

"In first place, we have Leo from the Iron Core Dojo!" the announcer roared into a voice-amplifying artifact. "She receives one high-grade martial technique and ten gold coins as her winning prize!"

"Moreover, this year, the tournament introduces a special title for the Under-15 bracket, a nameplate declaring her the Strongest Under-15 Prodigy, which is also awarded to Leo as our champion!"

Under the deafening applause of the massive crowd, the grand prizes were brought out and presented to Leo one by one.

"In second place, we have Elisi, also a premier disciple from the Iron Core Dojo! She receives one mid-grade martial technique along with ten gold coins as her prize!"

"And in third place, we have Prince Earth Deol..."

Once the top five participants were properly awarded, the announcer stepped back, gesturing to the youths. Traditionally, the winners are granted the choice to speak to the audience using the voice-amplified artifact if they wish.

This is a standard courtesy that very few actually utilize, usually reserved either for humble expressions of gratitude or arrogant declarations of dominance.

However, the moment Elisi firmly grasped the artifact and stepped forward, the announcer immediately realized that the organizers might need to remove this segment from the ceremony entirely in the future.

"Hello, everybody! My name is Elisi," her voice boomed across the stadium.

"I am using this important moment to inform you all that in three months' time, our dojo, the Iron Core Dojo, located in Big Wheat Village within Grains City, will be hosting a grand tournament of our own!"

The crowd instantly went quiet, completely caught off guard.

"However, unlike traditional martial tournaments, our stage will feature blacksmiths competing against one another. It will be a pure contest of who can forge the superior iron. This tournament is something that has never occurred within the empire before. So, if you are interested in participating to earn widespread fame, or if you simply wish to witness something entirely unique, you are more than welcome to attend!"

Having delivered every single line exactly as she was instructed, Elisi casually handed the artifact back to the stunned announcer. She then turned on her heel and exited the stage alongside Leo, leaving the dumbfounded stadium staff and thousands of spectators staring blankly at her retreating back.

"She spoke exceptionally well," Mayor Salam commented smoothly from beside Zani.

The Mayor had been thoroughly consulted before Zani authorized this public stunt, and he had enthusiastically given his full approval. Currently, supporting the dojo serves a dual purpose for him: not only does it allow him to slowly ingratiate himself with the mysterious, hidden Immortal backing the dojo, but a massive influx of visitors will also drastically boost the overall economic value of Grains City. From his perspective, the entire venture is a source of total profit.

As Elisi and Leo completely disappeared behind the curtains, the Third Prince quietly exited the stage right after them. Meanwhile, the weight of Elisi's words finally began to settle into the minds of the audience, and a wave of heated discussions violently erupted across the stands.

"A blacksmith tournament? Is she serious?"

"How are they even planning to host something like that..."

"Hmph, who would ever want to sit around and watch a bunch of sweat-drenched brutes slam hammers against metal on a stage?"

"Is this Iron Core Dojo planning something bigger behind the scenes?"

"Hey, my uncle is a registered blacksmith! I need to send him a letter and let him know about this immediately!"

A short while later, the explosive news of what transpired during the reward ceremony finally reached the Governor's private quarters.

SMASH

A heavy porcelain teacup shattered into pieces against the floor.

"These vermin! They dare use our sacred, centuries-old annual martial tournament as a mere springboard for their own business?! HOW DARE THEY!" The Governor's face twisted into an ugly mask of pure rage.

Turning to his trembling retainer, he barked, "Listen to this seat. Release the other one as well. We will let them know exactly where they went wrong, and just how severe their mistake is!"

"Y... Yes, sir!"

Meanwhile, inside the luxurious VIP suite, the Third Prince was aggressively pacing back and forth across the room, having just returned from accepting his third-place prize.

His frantic pacing continued uninterrupted for a full half-hour before he finally came to a sudden halt. The elite royal guardian, who had been silently watching his master the entire time, let out a quiet sigh of relief, his tense posture relaxing slightly.

"Guardian, I have finally made up my mind."

A bead of cold sweat instantly formed on the Guardian's forehead upon hearing those words. The Prince has decided something? What kind of disaster is he going to stir up this time?

Hesitating for a brief moment, the Guardian carefully asked, "What have you decided, Young Master?"

"I am going to go undercover and personally join this Iron Core Dojo," the Prince declared, a sinister, calculating grin spreading across his face. "If I can somehow woo that little veiled girl... hehehe. With the immense backing of the ancient Cuby Clan, absolutely nobody will be able to stop me from ascending the throne as the next Emperor! But to ensure this plan works, I need you to prepare a few specific things for me first, Guardian."

Listening intently to his young master's words, the Guardian blinked in sheer surprise. To think the Young Master can actually formulate a genuine, politically sound plan like this... Bowing deeply, the Guardian cupped his fists. "Command me as you wish, Young Master."

On the other side of the city, Zani was busy celebrating the victory with his disciples inside the very same high-end restaurant they had visited before.

"Master, can we please order the white tiger meat this time?" one of the twins begged, his eyes wide with anticipation.

"Of course we can," Zani laughed heartily, gesturing toward a nearby employee. "Waiter, over here! We want a large serving of the white tiger meat, and..."

Although Zani had already confiscated the high-grade and mid-grade martial technique manuals, as well as the substantial prize money from the girls, the disciples were not the least bit concerned or upset about it.

After all, Master Zani has been taking exceptional care of them since day one, and they know he will continue to do so in the future. Right now, the entire table is completely focused on enjoying the lavish victory feast.

It seems I do not need to spend any funds to purchase martial techniques after all. These two manual rewards are absolutely perfect, Zani thought contentedly, lightly tapping the two scrolls tucked away inside his robes as he observed his laughing disciples.

"Please enjoy your meal."

Just then, a young waitress arrived at the table to carefully deliver their steaming platters of food. Looking up to thank her, Zani noticed that the waitress was a young girl possessing a remarkably charming, delicate face.

However, what truly caught his attention was the sudden, unexpected feedback text that his [Talent Evaluation Eye] instantly fed back into his vision:

[Talented in Sewing]

[Summary: A fifth-generation descendant of a Spider Demon and a human.]


__________________________

[Question: What are you talented in? Tell me. if I like it, I will create a character based on it.
Here's your time to shine. Just write anything. We will not judge...]

[Author Note: continue reading chapter 43 and 44 FREE on my patreon. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

"High-grade martial art: Eight-Point Vajra Art."

Zani read the first manual under the dim candlelight. The Eight-Point Vajra Art utilizes fists, elbows, knees, and shins. This is supposedly the best technique for close-quarter fighting inside the mortal realm.

"Mid-grade martial art: Beast-Tendon Step."

He picked up the second book. By maintaining a slight, continuous tension in the lower leg, the user can bounce forward with terrifying, explosive leaps, much like a hunting tiger.

"These martial arts are not bad at all. One can help fight better, and the other can help to dodge and run faster. Good."

YAWN.

Exhausted from the day's events, Zani finally set the books down and decided to sleep for the night.

The Next Morning.

It is currently their ninth day away from home. After the Under-15 tournament concluded, they had waited two additional days because the older disciples brought along by the Mayor's Manor and the Earth Shield Dojo were participating in the Under-20 bracket.

Zani also took this valuable opportunity to carefully observe how people more powerful than himself fought. He was utterly astonished by the mere fact that an expert at the peak of the 2nd Stage cannot even last a single attack against someone in the 3rd Stage. The increment in raw kinetic strength upon crossing that specific threshold is incredibly steep.

Moreover, after staying in Warrior City for so many days, the group was now returning with an additional member. She is a young girl named Mahi, who formerly worked as a waitress at the restaurant. After talking with her and discovering she is an orphan, Zani actively invited her to join his faction. Even her adopted parents had enthusiastically encouraged her to pursue the martial path.

A short while later, they were outside the city gates, settling onto their horses.

"Are you seated comfortably, Mahi?" Pedi asked. Due to the limited number of horses, the group had decided that the only male disciple would travel with the Master, leaving Pedi to handle riding with the newest member.

"Yes, Senior," Mahi replied softly.

"Hahaha!"

Hearing the other girl call her 'Senior' was a truly pleasant experience. Pedi giggled, thrilled that Mahi spoke to her with such deep respect despite actually being older than her.

But her joyous laugh was swiftly cut short.

"Stop it, Pedi. You are only asking her that again and again just so Mahi will call you 'Senior', right?" Elisi, riding on the horse beside them, caught the gleeful meaning behind the laugh with a single glance and immediately called her out. After all, she is the Eldest Disciple. Hehehe.

The journey continued smoothly.

By evening, they stopped at the Uppo Inn once again to rest for the night.

"Boss, we want one more serving over here!"

"Coming right up..."

"Mahi, you should eat more, otherwise your seniors are going to leave nothing for you," Zani reminded her, watching the others devour their food with their usual terrifying speed.

Just as they were enjoying their lavish meals, a timid voice came from behind.

"Hello, good sir... can you spare some change?"

Looking back, Zani was surprised to see a boy, nearly fifteen years old, standing with a battered beggar's bowl.

"Here..."

CLINK. CLINK.

Tossing a few copper coins into the bowl, Zani turned back to his meal. However, the presence behind him did not leave.

"Sir... are you a martial artist?"

"Huh?"

Looking back with a slight frown, Zani immediately understood that the boy was hoping for a favor. He likely wanted them to take him along or teach him something. Zani had encountered many youths like this, both in Warrior City and Grains City. Children who cannot afford expensive dojo tuitions often seek to learn a trick or two from traveling masters for basic self-defense.

Zani generally has no problem teaching a poor boy how to throw a proper punch, but being disturbed while eating genuinely irritated him.

However, as he casually swept his gaze over the boy, the System's Talent Evaluation Eye triggered, and he was completely shocked.

【Talented in Strength】

【Summary: A direct descendant of the Berserker Demon. Possesses the potential to fully awaken his bloodline further.】

Wait... isn't this the exact same talent the Third Prince possesses? Is it him?!

While Zani was staring at him in sheer disbelief, the boy was currently having intense internal thoughts of his own.

Come on, old man! Can't you just try to teach me something, then get blown away by my heaven-defying talent, and immediately decide to take me into your dojo? Hurry up! Do you even know how much money I used and what kind of sacrifices I made to end up looking like this?!

Dissolving one's martial foundation and changing one's appearance using a semi-permanent mask, which violently itches if not continuously sprayed with a special softening concoction, is no small feat. The Third Prince was truly going all out, risking everything just to get the chance to change his own fate.

However, what the Prince does not know is that he is not the first person to come under Zani's roof in disguise. But unlike Leo, who used an artifact puppet, Zani could not find a single flaw in his disguise, including the fact that the beggar truly possesses no martial foundation right now.

Therefore, Zani's final conclusion was highly pragmatic. He must be a royal family bastard! A rare and incredibly powerful find!

"Hehehe, boy," Zani chuckled, his eyes curving into sharp crescents. "My dojo has an inner disciple structure where I train young, promising talents like yourself entirely at my own expense. Would you like to join?"

"Huh?!"

Not only Deol, but all the other disciples eating at the table were completely taken aback by their Master abruptly inviting another junior so easily.

Isn't this way too fast?! Deol thought, completely dumbfounded, before hurriedly nodding. "Y-Yes!"

"Good. Come, sit down. Peda, make some space and help your new junior brother eat his fill."

"Yes, Master!" Peda spoke cheerfully, side-eyeing his twin sister in a taunting manner, as if to say he too had finally gained a junior to boss around.

Meanwhile, just outside the inn's perimeter, hidden deep within the dark treeline.

"Weren't we told that there are exactly eleven people traveling together, and our priority targets are the five from the dojo? So where did those two extra brats come from?" a shadowy figure whispered, gripping the hilt of his blade.

"Who cares? They are just brats. We will simply kill them too."

"You are right... hehehe."

"Hahaha!"

"It's been so long... far too long since I last killed."

"Tonight is going to be incredibly fun..."

Night eventually fell, and Zani and Mayor Salam took the first guard shift for the group.

"Mayor, how is your progress in the third realm going so far?" Zani asked, remembering that the Mayor had acquired the mid-grade breathing manual for it not too long ago.

"Huff... do not even get me started. Just entering the initial threshold is incredibly difficult..."

Just as the Mayor was about to start explaining the profound hurdles of his training, the heavy sound of footsteps echoed from the entrance. Two distinct figures were walking directly inside.

They marched straight toward the sitting duo as if to ask a question, only stopping just a short distance away.

"Gentlemen, we would like to stay the night here. So, could you please..."


____________________

[Question: How will the fight be:

A. A desperate struggle.
B. One sided beating.
C. Mayor Salam will stop pretending, exposing that he is an immortal.
D. The third prince will reveal his identity and summon his shadow guards.
E. Zani will gain boost by system, leveling the field.]


[Author Note: Support the author. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

"Oh, looks like I slept a little."

A bald man jolted awake, opening his eyes to the bright, full moon above. Then, as if suddenly remembering something, he hurriedly grabbed a small artifact from his inner chest pocket and peered through it.

He is the elite royal guardian of the Third Prince, responsible for ensuring His Highness does not encounter any life-threatening danger while traveling outside.

Although he is usually dismissive of this role, after all, nothing major ever happens on these shadow-guarding jobs, the scene currently playing out through the monitoring artifact horrified him.

"Oh no..."

Five Minutes Earlier...

"Why are you attacking us?! Who are you people?!"

Zani yelled at the top of his lungs, his voice thick with agitation. Who would have thought that two shadowy figures approaching the Uppo Inn would suddenly launch a sneak attack, ruthlessly knocking Mayor Salam out cold with a single, brutal strike?

He yelled with all his might while asking the question, desperately attempting to wake the others sleeping inside.

However, the two men standing across from him simply started laughing, as if they were watching a performing monkey.

"Don't worry, boy. Nobody will come to your rescue."

"As for who we are… we have all night to talk about that, right?"

"Yes. Hahaha!"

They were talking more to themselves, barely even acknowledging Zani, who was standing just a few paces away.

Both of them... I don't know what they want, but it definitely is not pleasant, Zani thought, his mind racing for a solution. They really are treating me like air. Well, I am still only in the 1st Stage of Body Tempering, while they both exude the auras of 2nd Stage experts. After knocking out the Mayor, they probably think nobody here can match them even if they do wake up.

Which means... I can sneak attack!

Thinking so, Zani tried to maintain his terrified facade. "Y-You seem overly confident that nobody will wake up!"

"Of course. So you can stop delaying for time, or thinking you can actually take us on. Tonight, we are going to enjoy our newfound freedom with a little mayhem."

While talking, one of the men approached him with a cruel, playful smile.

Zani saw this as the perfect opportunity and violently lunged at the man. After his last life-and-death encounter with the bandit leader Blao, Zani had made frequent hunting trips to the mountain, not just to earn silver, but to actively hone his fighting instincts.

As Zani closed the distance, the other bandit watched in sheer surprise. The timid, shouting young man from a second ago was now almost upon his partner, his fist drawn back and ready to strike with lethal intent.

CLANG!

Zani's punch squarely connected with the man's ribs. But instead of the usual, satisfying sensation of punching flesh and bone, a loud, metallic clang echoed through the courtyard.

Surprise flashed in the bandit's eyes because the impact really hurt, despite the armor. But he refused to show it in the presence of his partner and Before Zani could even retract his arm, his wrist was firmly caught in a vice grip.

"Well, who would have thought that a little trash like you could also throw a punch?"

THWACK.

A heavy kick came from the side, catching Zani in the stomach and sending him violently flying over a nearby wooden table.

"A piece of trash trying to sneak attack," the second man sneered. "Well, it's our mistake. We were trying to play nice with the boy, after all."

The second man walked closer, casually sitting on a chair and resting his heavy boot directly onto the chest of the unconscious Mayor.

"Should I kill him?" the first man asked, looking at Zani, who was already pushing himself back up from the dirt.

They are wearing heavy armor underneath their robes! Isn't armor strictly banned in the Empire? Zani gritted his teeth, ignoring the stinging pain in his abdomen. He firmly planted his feet, adopting a stance from the high-grade martial art manual he had gotten not long ago.

"I have a better idea," the man sitting on the chair chuckled darkly. "Why don't we force the adults to watch how we slaughter the brats first?"

"Hahaha, a fine idea indeed!"

Zani did not wait for them to finish their sadistic banter. He moved again, but this time, his strike was aimed directly at the man's head. He was going for a lethal blow with all his might, completely unwilling to hear any more nonsense from these thugs.

But before Zani could even cross half the distance, a figure materialized out of thin air, stepping directly between him and the assailants.

"You two should be locked deep in the Warrior City prison," a cold, authoritative voice rang out. "Tell me, who let you out, you dogs from the Digger Gang?"

"Who-?!"

"Who the hell are-"

THUD. THUD.

Before the two 2nd Stage experts could even draw their weapons, both of them collapsed to the ground, knocked completely unconscious in the blink of an eye.

Zani could only stare with wide, dumbfounded eyes as the new arrival turned around. The bright moonlight reflected brilliantly off his shiny, bald head. The unfathomable expert offered him a slight, respectful bow before completely vanishing into thin air, taking the two unconscious bandits with him.

Was... was that an Immortal? Zani thought, his heart pounding in his chest. Then, looking down at his feet. Oh, right. The Mayor...

The Next Day, On the Road

"Zani, was he really an Immortal?"

"Yes, Mayor..."

"Then why did you not wake me up?! Do you hold some enmity with me?!"

Zani sighed heavily, aggressively rubbing his temples. They had been having this exact same conversation since the sun came up, and he did not even remember how many times he had heard the Mayor repeat the same rambling words.

"Answer me, Zani! Why did you do something so cruel?! That could have been my very first time witnessing a true Immortal with my own two eyes!"

"Why, you ask...?"

Keep talking, I am not replying anymore. This man has no shame. Who made him the Mayor, I wonder, Zani muttered under his breath, eventually choosing to completely ignore the pestering politician riding beside him.

A short while later, Elisi maneuvered her horse from the back of the caravan, riding up alongside Zani with Leo sitting quietly behind her.

"Master Zani, there is a beautiful lake up ahead! Can we please stop and rest for a bit?" Elisi asked, her eyes shining with anticipation.

"My dear disciple... do you want your Master to die on this trip?" Zani replied flatly, subtly signaling with his eyes toward the relentlessly rambling Mayor.

His reasoning was simple and highly pragmatic: if they stopped to rest, he would be trapped in one place with the Mayor, forced to endure endless torment regarding the bald Immortal. He might actually not make it back to the dojo with his sanity intact.

Understanding the sheer gravity of her Master's suffering, even Elisi had to accept the reality. She offered a sympathetic nod and maneuvered her horse back to the rear of the group.

Back at the Iron Core Dojo

With Chef Julian and Lady Tassy leading the way, all the disciples and staff were gathered anxiously at the dojo's iron gates when Zani finally returned with his traveling group.

"Master! Welcome back!"

Zani nodded in satisfaction, before dismounting his horse and turning toward the disciples standing behind him. Then, to everyone's surprise, he unslung a long, cloth-wrapped board from his back.

With a grand flourish, he unwrapped it to reveal a beautifully carved wooden plaque.

"Cheer up, everyone! We have returned with victory!" Zani announced, his voice carrying across the street.

"YEEHAW!"

Hearing Zani's declaration and seeing the prestigious plaque, the gathered disciples erupted into chaotic, joyous cheering.

Seizing the perfect moment, Elisi threw her hands into the air and shouted the exact words everyone wanted to hear:

"Grand feast tonight!"

Inside the Mayor's Manor

When Mayor Salam finally returned to his heavily fortified estate, a royal messenger was already waiting in his private receiving hall.

Learning of this upon his arrival, the Mayor hurriedly freshened up and arranged an immediate meeting. In the political hierarchy of the Earth Dragon Empire, the act of a royal messenger waiting for the receiver is only done if the message itself is of importance, or if the sender is someone the Mayor must show respect to.

During the meeting, after exchanging a few tense pleasantries, the messenger immediately cut to the chase.

"Mayor Salam, please kneel. I am about to bestow upon you a Royal Decree."

"Yes, please."

Mayor Salam instantly dropped to one knee, lowering his head and raising both hands toward the ceiling, holding them out as if receiving a holy relic.

After delivering the sealed scroll, the messenger strictly instructed the Mayor to read it only in privacy and to burn the container immediately afterward. With his duty fulfilled, the messenger promptly left the manor.

Now completely alone in his office, Mayor Salam broke the wax seal and unfurled the scroll. His eyes rapidly scanned the elegant calligraphy.

The decree contained two messages:

"The Governor of Warrior City has crossed a line he should not have. Therefore, the special privilege bestowed upon the Murchie noble family by the ancestors is officially revoked. This means that in the next election, the Warrior City Governor's seat will be up for the taking.

Mayor Salam, upon royal recognition of your excellent, flawless management of Grains City, you are hereby granted special permission to stand as a candidate in the upcoming elections for Warrior City. This is a one-time privilege that you may choose to utilize next term. We wish you luck."

_______________________________

[Question: I can't think of any question. So let me ask this, what is your favorite Anime...]

[Author Note: If you find anything that you do not understand during reading please let me know...
Also I uploaded a fanfic named One piece: I am Ragnarök.
It's a free time project, you can read if you want to]

 

[Pind_Ala]

[Ding~]

[New Quest: Train a disciple to be a Logistician]

[Requirement: Disciple must be excellent in arithmetic, capable of remembering vast information, and highly skilled in calligraphy]

[Rewards: 10 EXP and a book titled 'Learn the Ancient Language']

A new quest, Zani thought as he calmly started eating his breakfast.

Two days have passed since their return from Warrior City, and everything is starting to settle back to normal. Currently, with the addition of the two new inner disciples and a massive surge of fresh admissions, the total number of youths under the Iron Core Dojo is nearing maximum capacity, standing at fifty-one out of sixty.

Information truly travels fast. The news about his dojo's disciple taking first place in the Under-15 bracket is already a heated topic of discussion inside Grains City and all its subsidiary villages. According to the current trend, the remaining empty spots will undoubtedly be filled very soon.

Looking at the translucent blue screen again after finishing his meal, Zani shifted his gaze toward Elisi, who was sitting at the table not too far away.

Well, I did teach her basic arithmetic in hopes that she could eventually handle the daily trade logistics with the hunters, Zani tapped his chin thoughtfully. But remembering things and calligraphy... I do not think I can help much with either of those. For calligraphy, I will need to hire a teacher from the city. As for remembering things... let's use the 'All Herbs Encyclopedia of the Mortal Realm' I got as a reward for a test. I can use it to see who already possesses a good memory, and who can be taught to fulfill this quest.

He had to meticulously think this through because, in the memory department, Elisi is simply not too bright. She is definitely not up to the strict standards the System requires. She might naturally improve in the future, but that will take far too much time. Instead, it is much more pragmatic to find someone who is already naturally gifted at memorization to finish the quest quickly.

Looking around the lively table, Zani addressed the new faces.

"Ethan, Mahi, are you two adjusting alright?"

"Yes, Master," they replied respectfully.

Ethan... I still feel incredibly awkward responding to this fake name, but I will have to adjust, Deol thought, carefully side-eyeing Leo, who was currently chatting with her best friend like a perfectly normal mortal girl. Do these people genuinely not know about her identity or something? Moreover, this girl, Elisi, was it...

AHEM.

As the disciples finished their meal and were about to stand up from the table, Zani cleared his throat loudly to command everyone's attention.

"Raise your hands. Who among you is exceptionally good at remembering things?"

As he asked the sudden question, many hands eagerly shot up into the air. Leo, the twins, the two newcomers, and five other inner disciples raised their arms.

Seeing that Elisi's hand was conspicuously absent from the group, Zani offered her a warm smile, successfully forcing the terrified girl to raise her hand as well.

Quickly analyzing the candidates... I cannot let Leo get distracted right now. I must let her fully reach the peak of the 1st Stage before adding another skill to her routine. As for the twins, they have already started learning from their mother.

From the others, three of them are currently learning in the kitchen under Julian. This leaves four capable disciples, including the two newcomers. However, I already have plans for all the original inner disciples under me. Except for those helping in the kitchen, the rest are needed to learn the martial techniques we brought back from the city. After all, I need them to thoroughly master those techniques so they can teach them to the outer disciples for me...

This leaves only the newcomers.

Having formulated a solid plan, Zani stood up from his master chair. "Elisi, Ethan, and Mahi, you three stay behind. The rest of you may continue with your training sessions."

"Yes, Master!" the disciples chorused, quickly filtering out of the dining hall.

After asking the three selected youths to wait for him at the table, Zani promptly returned to his private quarters to fetch the book.

Meanwhile, the disguised Prince was already fiercely cursing him in his mind. I thought this was a perfect chance to get near Leo, but this old man did not even choose her for this memory test or whatever! Haa... Shifting his gaze toward the girl who was currently lying flat on the wooden table, sighing lazily, he plotted. Well, I suppose I can start by winning favor from her best friend.

YAWN.

Elisi was feeling incredibly sleepy and lethargic after eating such a hearty breakfast. Just as her eyes began to flutter shut...

THUD.

A massive, incredibly thick book, heavy enough to realistically be used as a blunt weapon, was violently slammed onto the table right in front of her, snapping her instantly awake.

"It is morning. How can you possibly be so lazy?" Zani scolded lightly, taking his seat.

"Listen closely. I want you three to memorize the contents of this book as soon as possible. I will take it back during the night for safekeeping, but during the day, you can divide the reading time among yourselves. Just do not damage the pages, understood?"

"Wh-What?! Is this really a single book?!" Elisi gasped in pure shock, staring at the sheer volume of pages.

Mahi, however, leaned forward curiously. "What exactly does it contain, Master?"

"It contains detailed information on all the known mortal-grade herbs in existence," Zani replied smoothly.

Hearing this, Ethan, the disguised Third Prince, let out a surprise sound, his eyes widening in genuine surprise. An encyclopedia of all known mortal-grade herbs?! This is a treasure that perhaps even the mighty Earth Sect might not possess, let alone my own Earth Clan!

Looking at the massive tome, and remembering the bizarre pure iron equipment sitting in the main hall, Deol was finally starting to grasp a terrifying reality. This rural dojo, which was only recently established, must possess the backing of someone unfathomably powerful!

And can I do anything with this knowledge? No. To handle whoever is standing in the shadows behind this place, the entire royal clan might need to be mobilized. But will anyone even believe the desperate words of the youngest child? Moreover, the Cuby Clan already knows about this place, and they have done nothing. Perhaps they are the secret supporters behind it? But I doubt it...

When Deol finally snapped out of his intense internal trance, Zani and Elisi had already left. Only Mahi and he were sitting at the table, with the latter actively asking if he wanted to take the first reading shift.

Nodding politely, Deol agreed and then even she left, leaving him alone in the room for the time being.

Now, carefully turning the pages of the encyclopedia, the Third Prince, who had originally come here solely to woo a girl, was slowly starting to change his mind. Although he will never forget his primary goal of ascending the throne, the sheer resources hidden within this humble dojo are becoming impossible to ignore.



_______________________

[you can find chapter 46 and 47 free on patreon or binge read to the latest chapter 58. https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

There is an old saying: money makes the mare go.

After the massive windfall from the tournament prize money, there was nothing holding Zani's ambitions back. Over the following two months, he ruthlessly purchased all the land situated between the Iron Core Dojo and the nearby mountain range.

It contained twenty-five houses, large and small, the connecting public roads, and forty-eight agricultural fields. All in all, he spent twelve gold coins from the twenty-gold prize pool to officially become the biggest landlord in Grains City.

However, because some local families were incredibly stubborn and refused to sell their ancestral lands, it took Zani considerable time and some extra silver to finally persuade them. But in the end, the grand expansion was completed.

Now, the next phase of his plan could officially commence.

Destroying most of the old houses, Zani ordered the construction of a grand stage for the upcoming tournament. As the heavy construction started the very next day, a series of vibrant, colorful posters began making massive waves across the Earth Dragon Empire.

Since he had already invested a mountain of money, it was only natural for Zani to spend heavily on marketing as well. Therefore, this time, the tournament news was not limited to Grains City and its surrounding villages. Couriers were dispatched to the far ends of the empire to rapidly deliver the posters.

From the seven major cities to the Imperial Capital itself, Zani's motive was to cover more than half of the empire's territory, leaving the rest up to fate.

Soon enough, heated discussions regarding the tournament started erupting in major gathering places across the empire.

"Hey, have you heard about the new tournament?"

"You mean the forging tournament happening next month? I heard a thing or two about it."

"Dad, I want to participate!"

"It is far too distant! I have never even heard of this Big Wheat Village before!"

"WAAAA! I want to go!"

"Forging... will I be able to meet my muscular dream man there?"

"Hmph. Who wants to sit around and watch sweaty brutes hammer metal for hours?"

"You brats, pack up! We are leaving to participate right now!"

"Heh, it starts in merely ten days. Why am I only finding out about this now? And it is so far away too! Oh, Heavens, why must you be so heartless?!"

Ten days before the grand event, the official registrations opened.

However, unlike the previous Culinary Competition where anyone could participate as long as they paid the entry fee, this time was different. Strict screening questions were asked to determine if the person was genuinely qualified to step onto the stage.

Inside the Bustling Registration Tent.

"You write exceptionally well, Brother Ethan," Mahi complimented. She could not help but keep stealing glances at the young boy meticulously recording the participants' data. Who could have thought that this handsome boy was a mere beggar when we first met?

"Focus, Mahi. The next person is coming in," Elisi scolded lightly from behind, reminding the two love birds to focus on the task at hand.

Haaa, why does Master always ask me to handle such burdensome tasks? Elisi lamented her fate inwardly. It is only the first day, and I am already completely exhausted...

Due to Zani's busy schedule, the grueling registration task was entirely delegated to his three disciples, who were studying to be logisticians. Mahi was responsible for asking the pre-set screening questions, Ethan handled the heavy recording and calligraphy, and Elisi, as someone with prior registration experience, was placed in charge to supervise. Furthermore, the professional calligraphy teacher Zani had hired the previous month was also present in the tent to ensure the three youths did not slack off.

Elisi sighed again as she watched a burly man stride into the tent, accompanied by three younger boys.

"Good morning. Have you thoroughly read the instruction manual posted outside?" Mahi started smoothly, asking the exact same repeated question as the burly man took a seat, his three disciples standing rigidly behind him.

"Yes, I have. Here are four silver coins. Register me and my disciples."

CLINK.

The man was quite straightforward, tossing the heavy silver directly onto the desk and going straight to the point.

"I am sorry, sir, but first you need to answer a few screening questions. Only then can you be allowed to participate," Mahi explained politely.

"Oh, fine. Fire away."

Mahi began reciting the rigorous questionnaire. She asked for their names, ages, origins, and if they were currently affiliated with any power. Then came the core questions: Why do you wish to participate? Have you ever forged before?

She asked a few technical questions regarding metal properties and whether they could maintain focus in front of a chaotic, cheering crowd. Lastly, she asked the ultimate question: If you secure a top ranking in this tournament, would you be willing to establish a working partnership with the Iron Core Dojo?

After the burly master answered, the exact same questions were repeated with slight variations for the three boys he had brought along.

Meanwhile, the line outside the registration tent was only growing longer as time ticked by.

This is pure manual labor, I just know it, Ethan, the disguised Third Prince, thought bitterly, his hand was already starting to ache from all the relentless writing. Nobody in this world is kind enough to train you entirely for free. So this is how he earns back the silver he spends nurturing us!

Two Days Later.

【Ding~】

【Quest: Train a disciple to be a Logistician】

【Status: Completed】

【Rewards: 10 EXP and a book titled 'Learn the Ancient Language'】

【Exp: 40/100】

【Learn the Ancient Language book available. Click to retrieve.】

Zani, who was currently in a strategic meeting with Mayor Salam to confirm the final plans for the tournament, was momentarily dazed by the sudden notification. Recovering quickly, he offered a satisfied smile and smoothly continued with his work.

If anyone were to ask, "Who is the most happy about this upcoming tournament?" the definitive answer would be Mayor Salam.

Two months ago, when Salam was desperately considering whether to stand in the gubernatorial elections or not, spending sleepless nights weighing the heavy risks, Zani had approached him with the massive draft plan for the blacksmith tournament.

After carefully listening to him and deducing that it would be an overwhelming success, the crafty Mayor immediately started linking the event to his political ambitions and decided to gamble everything on it.

Because the high-stakes elections for Warrior City are scheduled exactly one month after the tournament, this grand event will serve as the perfect moment for him to debut his campaign. Therefore, he has been aggressively promoting and funding the tournament behind the scenes, utilizing all of his vast resources just to secure the chance to deliver a grand speech during the final reward ceremony.

He has done everything in his power to ensure that almost all the prominent residents and influential figures of Warrior City will attend the tournament and hear his words. The rest... he will simply leave up to fate.



________________________________

[Question: Guess game. The word Love birds was used. Can you guess the story behind it??

A. when Leo broke his heart, Mahi comforted him.
B. Leo has undeveloped body, not comparable to Mahi at all.
C. Mahi was the one who confessed to him and he just could not refuse.
D. Mahi's background is more imposing.]

[Author Note: I am sick guys. wish me well...]

 

[Pind_Ala]

The Night Before the Event

Zani stood on the roof of the Iron Core Dojo's main hall, overseeing the sprawling venue from afar.

The central stage alone is five thousand square feet, constructed of solid, polished stone, and the surrounding spectator area is vast enough to accommodate eight thousand people. Covering over sixty thousand square feet in total, it is almost as massive as the colosseum in Warrior City.

However, unlike the city's arena, which is built entirely from solid stone, the elevated seating area here is constructed from wood. It is a necessary compromise. Even with the generous budget Zani possessed, including the heavy investments made by Mayor Salam and a few opportunistic merchants, the funds simply weren't enough to manifest a miracle in such a short window of time.

This massive project, although finished in haste, was worked on by more than five hundred men, including the demolition crew responsible for tearing down old houses and leveling the agricultural fields. In the end, Zani only kept five relatively new houses intact, clustered together on one side of the property. The rest were completely demolished, along with eight fields.

In their place, a grand, colosseum-shaped venue now stands, proudly visible from afar. The only structural difference is the wooden outer boundary wall and spectator stands. Apart from the stage and seating areas, a proper backstage and a luxurious VIP viewing section were also erected.

"Let's see how it goes tomorrow," Zani said aloud, turning away from the magnificent view to finally get some proper sleep.

How many changes can happen in three months?

Now, one-third of Big Wheat Village officially belongs to the Iron Core Dojo. The locals who sold their properties became instantly wealthy; many of them have relocated to live inside Grains City, while others chose to build new homes on the far side of the village.

A month prior, due to the vast employment opportunities and generous wages, many new families moved into the area. The sheer volume of timber required to construct the venue practically balded the perimeters of the nearby mountain range.

Then, as the news of the tournament spread across the empire, a massive influx of visitors began appearing. Tavern prices skyrocketed. Some villagers even emptied rooms in their own homes to rent them out and earn a piece of the wealth. This explosive trend only went upward as the event drew closer.

Now, as Zani slept peacefully, the entire village was brightly lit with lanterns. Many traveling vendors saw a golden opportunity in the massive crowds and spontaneously opened a bustling night market outside the newly constructed venue.

The Next Morning

【Ding~】

【New Quest: Build 20 bathtubs with Firebricks】

【Rewards: 10 EXP and a book on 'How to build a fortress'】

【New Quest: Have a waterfall as sect property】

【Reward: Top-grade Martial technique manual】

"Huh... you do not have to wake me up, System. I already know today is a special day," Zani muttered, rubbing his sleepy eyes. He had been woken up an hour earlier than planned due to the sudden notifications.

Two quests... and one with no experience points? Whatever. I will tackle them later. For now, let's get ready.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the compound, chaos was brewing outside the newly built venue.

"Please stay in line! The entrance will open in ten minutes!"

"Hey, do not push me!"

Due to his pragmatic foresight, Zani already knew that the massive crowd would start lining up early to fight for the limited seating area. Thankfully, the number of outer disciples and allied hunters under his cooperative relationship has increased considerably. Plus, they are highly experienced in crowd control now. Thus, the chaotic crowd was effectively managed, and the wooden bleachers started filling up rapidly.

Although there is no shortage of martial artists in this audience, thankfully everything is going smoothly at the entrance, Leo thought, watching from a hidden vantage point high above. As the strongest combatant in the Iron Core Dojo, she is responsible for maintaining security during the event.

Just then...

"Can I still register? I want to participate!"

"No, sir. Please stay in the spectator line."

"To hell with your line! I am here to participate, not to watch! Lead me to your boss right now!"

A young, hot-blooded man carrying a massive iron hammer on his back started creating a violent commotion at the gates. The situation was just about to escalate into a full-blown bloody brawl when Leo personally stepped forward, utilizing Bai's towering puppet body to brutally intervene.

"Stop this at once."

Under Bai's rugged and terrifyingly authoritative voice, everyone in the vicinity seemed to freeze for a split second. However, breaking the tension, the arrogant young man stubbornly reached for his hammer.

"This tournament will either happen with me in it, or else..."

BAM.

"Such insolence," Bai spoke coldly, having knocked the man out cold with a single, lightning-fast slap to the face.

"And you," Bai said, glaring at the stunned disciples guarding the gate. "Simply kick out anyone else who dares to cause such a commotion again."

"Y-Yes, sir!"

Then, under the shocked and terrified gazes of the crowd, the unconscious man was unceremoniously dragged away by his collar.

An Hour Later

The exact same man was currently seated in the crowded spectator area, wearing a black cloak to disguise himself as he bitterly cursed the tournament organizer and his entire family.

This could have been the best chance to advertise my family's unique forging method to the empire. Why, oh Heavens... why must you always do this to me?! And this damn organizer, could he not have extended the registrations for just two more days?!

"GAAAH! I am so pissed right now!"

Unable to contain his boiling frustration, he yelled out loud, startling a family sitting right beside him.

"Ah... sorry. Sorry. It will not happen again," he quickly apologized, pulling his hood down further to hide his bruised face.

Haaa... at this rate, the art of Water Forging will go extinct with me... he thought, sighing deeply.

He could only sigh and watch as there was finally some movement on the stage. A burly man proudly walked to the center in slow, steady steps, enthusiastically waving his arms to the roaring crowd.

Watching the display, the cloaked young man could not help but ask the person sitting next to him, "Hey, who exactly is that fatty?"

The grand tournament had officially begun.

Village Chief Sythe took the stage first, serving as the official announcer. He quickly worked his seasoned wonders, expertly hyping the mood of the stadium and loudly recalling the massive prize pool.

Then, the esteemed Judges Panel started entering under his booming announcements.

This time as well, all these arrangements were meticulously handled by Mayor Salam. The Mayor had somehow managed to invite a renowned grandmaster smith all the way from the Imperial Capital, an unfathomable hermit who has lived his entire life forging deep in the mountains, and a recently emerging, highly talented female smith. The panel was truly a glorious sight to behold as they entered the stage one by one under the booming cheers.

Including Mayor Salam and Zani himself, the esteemed panel contained five people this time.

____________________________________

[Question: Do you think water forging is cool?

A. Yes

B. No

C. I like playing with fire more

D. Who likes forging?]

____________________________________

[Author Note: It's important for you to support author on patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[Pind_Ala]

The Royal Palace

Situated inside the Imperial Capital, the grand Royal Palace houses the esteemed Earth Clan, the unquestionable authority that has ruled over the Earth Dragon Empire since its very foundation.

"So, you are telling me my youngest is a part of this rural Iron Core Dojo now?"

"Yes, Your Imperial Majesty."

Hearing the shadow guard's report, the Empress could not help but show deep worry on her beautiful face.

"How useless. His older siblings are already disciples of the Earth Sect, and he is still out there goofing around."

Besides her own disappointment, her husband was already furious, which increased her anxiety a notch. In the end, she decided to defend her sweet baby nonetheless.

"Dear, please do not be so angry with Deol. He just needs a little more time. I am certain he will eventually walk the correct path."

"You do not understand anything!" the Emperor snapped, his voice booming through the opulent hall. "It is your blind pampering that has made him like this! It is entirely your fault!"

The Empress recoiled at the harsh remarks. Her husband rarely showed such unrestrained anger toward her, making her instantly realize the matter was vastly more serious than it appeared on the surface.

Just as she was about to cautiously ask the reason for his blazing temper, the Emperor let out a heavy, exhausted sigh.

"That fool... he swallowed a Foundation Dissolving Pill."

"WHAT?!"

The Tournament Spectator Area

Down in the crowded wooden bleachers of the newly built arena, Kai, the water-forging blacksmith who had been ruthlessly knocked out at the gates, sat wrapped in his dark cloak.

If he was previously feeling intense resentment over being unable to participate, now seeing the esteemed panel of judges take their respective seats filled his mouth with sheer, suffocating bitterness.

If only I could showcase my unique family techniques in front of these legendary masters and gain their approval... he thought, his fists clenched tight beneath his cloak.

On Stage

The grand tournament officially commenced as all participants were called forward to draw their designated numbers.

Spanning five thousand square feet, the central stage can physically handle thirty blacksmiths performing side by side without issue. However, Zani specifically restricted the groups to twenty people to maintain a clean and professional atmosphere. Just like the previous Culinary Competition, only two people from each group of twenty will advance to the next round.

The screening round began. The participants were all given the exact same basic tools and standard iron chunks to forge a specialized arrowhead—more precisely, a Bodkin Point.

Despite the initial screening during the registration phase, the total number of approved participants stood at a staggering three hundred and eighty. They were now divided into nineteen teams, meaning thirty-eight people would move on to the next phase.

Each competitive round lasted exactly half an hour. Thus, the entire first day of the tournament was exclusively dedicated to getting through this massive screening round.

CLANG!

CLANG!

After a few minutes of preparation, the rhythmic, deafening hammering began as Group 1 took to the stage and struck their red-hot iron.

Zani watched the intense forging process with deep interest from his seat. However, it seemed not everyone on the panel shared his focus on the metalwork. The young and talented female judge sitting to his right kept stealing nervous, subtle glances toward the grandmaster smith on the panel.

"Lady Fe, you can speak freely," Zani finally decided to say.

Since everyone on the judges' panel is provided with a voice-enhancing artifact, his casual words boomed loudly throughout the entire venue.

Lady Fe jumped slightly in her seat. "Huh? Brother Zani, wha... what did you say?"

"Lady Fe, do not be shy. Use the artifact to speak so our audience can also hear your thoughts."

This time, it was Mayor Salam who smoothly pressed the issue from the opposite corner of the table, perfectly catching onto Zani's rhythm.

This is the core of Zani's grand strategy. Nobody in this empire ever hosts such massive, non-combat competitions; only violent martial fighting tournaments are mainstream. The primary reason for this is audience retention. People naturally get bored watching the exact same repetitive tasks. Who wants to watch ordinary people cook? Who wants to watch sweaty brutes swing heavy hammers for hours on end?

People who possess no knowledge of the profound art of forging cannot appreciate the subtle techniques and mastery involved. Thus, the overall reach of such a competition is extremely limited. The only reason the Culinary Competition worked so well was because of the open-air cooking, allowing the audience to physically smell and anticipate the delicious food.

Zani is already completely certain that more than half of the people who attended the culinary tournament will not sit through this one. The massive rush of spectators he is witnessing today will undoubtedly be absent by tomorrow. People might even leave right after the lunch break because the exact same hammering process will simply repeat for the next nineteen groups.

So, how did Zani successfully convince Mayor Salam and the shrewd merchant investors to fund an idea that looked economically dead from the get-go?

The answer is live commentary.

This is something this world, let alone this empire, has never seen before. There are standard announcers in martial tournaments, but they only report the dry facts and current combat situations. This world has never witnessed a Judges Panel where top-tier experts actively talk, banter, and share their thoughts out loud for everyone to hear on such a massive public scale.

Although one might argue that a panel was also present last time, the booming, amplified voices of the experts were absent. Last time, the judges' quiet backstage murmurs were entirely drowned out by the chaotic crowd.

But now, everyone stopped. Even the intense hammering that had just started on the stage momentarily ceased as the amplified voices from the panel washed over the arena.

"Okay... hello? Wow. My voice..." Lady Fe mumbled into the artifact, her eyes widening in awe at the sheer volume.

"It is not bad," Mayor Salam commented smoothly into his own artifact, pushing the lady to speak her mind.

"Yes, that is why I am so surprised."

"So, Lady Fe," Zani interjected, smoothly dropping a massive social bomb. "Why were you secretly stealing glances toward Master Kitae?"

His words completely stunned everyone once again.

Now this is what successful, highly entertaining competitions look like! To hell with being overly polite, rigidly respectful, and being professional! I do not even know how to properly hold a hammer, so I might as well entertain the crowd! Zani grinned internally.

Meanwhile, the audience was already going crazy.

The people sitting up on that elevated panel are massive figures in the forging world, especially Master Kitae from the Imperial Capital, Master Waheed the hermit, and the newly emerging genius, Lady Fe.

Even the ordinary civilians who were only here to satisfy their fleeting curiosity could not hold back their excited voices after hearing the juicy drama.

"Lady Fe did what?!"

"I saw it too! She kept looking at him!"

"Hehehe, this is incredibly fun to watch!"

Down on the stage, Chief Sythe quickly announced the remaining time, forcing the dazed participants to snap out of the gossip and regain their focus on the hot metal.

The most surprised individuals in the venue were actually the two masters. They quickly realized this event was vastly different from what they had initially expected. The two old friends exchanged a puzzled look. Master Waheed then subtly pointed with his eyes, silently urging his friend to address the sudden, public call-out.

Taking the heavy hint, Master Kitae slowly picked up his own voice-enhancing artifact.


______________________

[Extra: Zani, although he was an ordinary teacher in his part life and does not bought much useful information with him. The little he knows and was good at is already making difference.

Have you noticed he is very good at handling students. Making plans for future and now with his otherworldly knowledge, he might organize a successful tournament.

What more changes can we make with his presence alone?]

[Question: If you were in his place, an ordinary human who lived in a village and passed away before smartphones were popular. What would you have done if you were in his place. assuming there is no system.]

[Author Note: Read ahead right now on my patreon. patreon.com/c/unpaid13]

 

[manuelhwang99]

... i uh... dont think asking about what changes he could bring really applies much if this is an original story without 'source material'?