Return to the World
Chapter 17: Return to the World
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A swirling sensation of weightlessness enveloped Kai, Selene, and Yami as they stepped into the exit portal. Colors twisted and folded around them—shades of gold, silver, and deep blue cascading like endless waves.
Kai's vision blurred for a moment before everything snapped into focus. The cold, crisp air of the real world filled his lungs. Gone were the suffocating mists and strange beasts of the pocket realm. He glanced around, feeling a sense of familiarity as he stood atop a small hill overlooking the vast wilderness.
The sun shined brightly in the sky, its golden rays cutting through the soft clouds. A gentle breeze caressed the grassy landscape, carrying with it the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves.
"Finally," Kai muttered, stretching his arms. "Back to where it all started."
Yami stood beside him, her human form as regal as ever. Her golden eyes scanned the horizon with a knowing smile. "The air here feels... fresh. I like it, Master. Much better than that stagnant pocket realm."
Selene emerged from the shadow of a nearby tree, her multiple eyes glowing faintly. "It's quieter than I remember. No immediate threats." She glanced at Kai. "What's our next move, Master?"
Kai's eyes narrowed as he gazed at the distant town barely visible from their vantage point. "We've been gone long enough. Time to check in on the shop... and my sister."
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[Location: Town Outskirts]
The town bustled with life as people moved through the streets, buying and selling goods, chatting, and calling out to one another. Children laughed as they played, while adventurers in armor and robes strolled through the markets, their eyes sharp and alert.
Kai walked calmly through the crowd, blending in as much as possible. His clothes were simple but well-kept, not attracting much attention.
Yami followed behind him, disguised in her human form, her elegant robes flowing as she walked. Her presence drew a few curious glances, especially from men who couldn't help but admire her beauty. But one look at her glowing golden eyes, and they quickly looked away, sensing something unnatural about her.
Selene stayed hidden, remaining in the shadows nearby. Her spider-like instincts made her comfortable in places where eyes couldn't reach.
"Looks like the town hasn't changed much," Kai muttered, glancing at the familiar streets. "But it feels... different."
"People are staring at you, Master," Yami said, tilting her head slightly. "Should I make them stop?"
Kai sighed. "No, Yami. We're not here to cause trouble."
Selene's voice echoed in his mind. "The stares are natural. We just walked out of nowhere, and Yami's presence draws too much attention."
Kai ignored the gazes, making his way to the familiar street where his family shop was located. His heart felt a twinge of nostalgia as he approached. But as he drew closer, he noticed something unusual.
A group of people had gathered near the entrance of the shop. At the center of the group stood a figure he recognized instantly—his sister.
Her commanding presence drew attention. Her posture was firm, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd with authority. Her long silver hair, reminiscent of cold frost, shimmered under the sunlight. Beside her, her ice fox beast sat proudly, its blue and white fur glowing with a faint, misty aura.
But it wasn't the sight of his sister that caught his attention. It was the man standing in front of her.
A tall figure with broad shoulders, adorned in traditional martial robes lined with golden embroidery. His aura was suffocating, his mere presence causing the crowd to keep their distance. His long beard swayed gently as he stroked it with one hand, his sharp eyes locked onto Kai's sister.
"I'm telling you, child," the man's voice rumbled like distant thunder, "you have immense potential. It would be a waste for you to stay here, selling trinkets. Come with me, and I will train you to become a true warrior of the realm."
Kai's eyes narrowed. "Martial Saint..."
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System Identification
> Name: Martial Saint Jirohan
Rank: SS-Rank (Human Martial Grandmaster)
Type: Human Cultivator
Status: Neutral (Potential Threat)
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Yami tilted her head. "That old man reeks of arrogance. Should I silence him, Master?"
"No," Kai muttered. "He's powerful, and he's not our enemy. But if he pushes too far, we'll handle it."
They continued watching as his sister folded her arms, her gaze unwavering.
"I appreciate your offer, Martial Saint," she said coolly. "But I have no interest in being anyone's disciple."
The crowd murmured, stunned by her response. Rejecting an offer from a Martial Saint was practically unheard of.
Jirohan raised a brow, his eyes sharp with interest. "Is that so? Even with a beast like your ice fox, you think you've reached the peak of your potential? Your power is far from complete, girl."
His eyes flicked to the small sapling-like beast nestled in her arms. Its small green leaves quivered, its tiny body clearly far from battle-ready.
"And this... a Yggdrasil bloodline?" Jirohan's gaze sharpened. "You're truly full of surprises. With beasts like these, you could rise to heights you can't even imagine."
Kai's hands clenched into fists. "Back off, old man," he muttered.
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System Notification
> New Objective Added
Protect Your Sister's Independence
Bonus Objective: Prevent Martial Saint Jirohan from Forcefully Recruiting Her
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Kai stepped forward, his presence shifting from calm to commanding. The crowd parted as he approached.
His sister's eyes widened as she recognized him. "Kai?" she asked, her tone a mix of surprise and relief. "You're back?"
Kai gave a small smile. "Yeah, I'm back." His eyes shifted to Jirohan, his smile fading. "And I see I'm just in time."
Jirohan's eyes flicked to Kai, his gaze sharp as a sword's edge. "You're her brother?" He stroked his beard, his eyes scanning Kai from head to toe. "Weak. No beast aura. You've barely awakened, if at all."
Kai's eyes remained calm. "Looks can be deceiving, old man."
Yami's golden eyes glowed behind him, and the pressure in the air grew heavier.
"Master, should I show him?" Yami's voice was like venom dripping with eagerness.
Kai smirked. "No need, Yami." He stepped forward, his eyes locked with Jirohan's. "This is family business. No one takes my sister without a fight."
The crowd went silent.
Jirohan's brows rose, a flicker of amusement flashing across his face. "Bravery, huh? I like that." He leaned forward, his aura intensifying. "But bravery without strength is foolishness."
The air grew heavier, the crowd backing away from the growing pressure. Kai didn't flinch.
"Then I'll show you the strength that protects my family."
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System Display: Kai
Role: Beast Master
Beasts:
Selene (EX-Rank)
Yami (EX-Rank)
[Stats]
Strength: A+
Agility: A+
Intelligence: A+
Vitality: A+
Spiritual Energy: S
[System Objectives]
1. Protect Your Sister's Independence (Active)
2. Bonus Objective: Prevent Martial Saint Jirohan from Forcefully Recruiting Her
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Kai stepped forward, his gaze unwavering as he faced the Martial Saint.
"Make your move, old man. I'm not afraid of legends."
End of Chapter 17