Chapter 57: Xavier’s absence

In the past two and a half months, while Xavier was in seclusion, Mara, Eddie, and Felix took action against several Crimson Shadow Cult hideouts and strongholds, successfully slaying their enemies and plundering vast amounts of resources for the Soul Clan.

1. Silver Coins:

• 15,000,000 Silver Coins (from the stronghold raids)

2. Spiritual Pills:

• 300 Earth Grade Pills

• 150 Rejuvenation Pills

• 100 Vitality Pills

• 50 True Essence Pills

• 60 Spiritual Pills

• 40 Qi Enhancing Pills

3. Mystic Weapons:

• 3x Mystic Longswords

• 4x Mystic Spears

• 5x Warhammers

• 10x Longbows

• 3x Mystic Blades

• 5x Short Swords

• 8x Throwing Daggers

• 2x Heavy Crossbows

• 2x Dual Swords

• 5x Flamewhip

4. Cultivation Manuals & Techniques:

• 1x "Blood Moon Strike" (Advanced martial technique, boosts speed and damage in the dark)

• 1x "Eclipse Fang Fist" (A devastating fist technique that channels spiritual energy into the user's hands)

• 1x "Shadow Serpent" (A movement technique focused on stealth and sudden strikes)

• 1x "Cinder Storm" (A fire-based technique that summons a hail of fiery projectiles)

• 1x "Raven's Call" (An advanced spiritual summoning technique that calls forth shadows to aid in battle)

• 1x "Drake's Fire Breath" (A fire-based elemental attack that summons dragon-like flames)

5. Rare Materials & Components:

• 10x Dragon Bones

• 5x Phoenix Feathers

• 3x Spirit Crystals

• 5x Demon Essence Orbs

• 1x Fire-Infused Steel

• 2x Ice Crystal Fragments

• 1x Heavenly Cloudstone

• 5x Soul Essence Shards

6. Armor & Protective Gear:

• 3x Light Armor Set (for agility)

• 4x Heavy Plate Armor Sets (for defense)

• 1x Mystic Cloak of the Fire Monarch (increases flame-based resistance)

• 2x Wind Cloaks (enhances agility and speed)

• 3x Strength Rings (enhances physical power)

• 1x Protective Arm Guard of the Phoenix

7. Dark Artifacts:

• 1x "Dagger of the Shadow King" (siphons life force from enemies upon striking)

• 1x "Cloak of the Dark Embrace" (stealth cloak that blends with shadows)

• 1x "Talisman of Eternal Night" (grants night vision and increases stealth)

• 1x "Soul Eater's Blade" (a sword that can absorb souls and heal the user)

8. Demonic Artifacts:

• 1x "Demon's Blood Amulet" (boosts demonic energy and strengthens dark magic)

• 1x "Infernal Mask" (provides enhanced defense against fire and heat)

9. Miscellaneous Items:

• 10x Mystic Rings (each enhancing a specific elemental ability)

• 2x Celestial Stones (boosts cultivation speed)

• 5x Spirit Scrolls (boosts spiritual energy during cultivation)

• 3x Teleportation Scrolls

• 2x Lesser Demon Summoning Scrolls

• 5x Enchantment Stones (can be used to enhance the durability of weapons)

10. Special Training Items:

• 1x Martial Arts Training Dummy (used to simulate combat and improve martial skills)

• 1x Combat Simulation Crystal (simulates battle scenarios to enhance tactical thinking and skill)

With all these resources in hand, Mara, Eddie, and Felix had successfully gathered vast amounts of wealth, equipment, and cultivation tools to significantly bolster the Soul Clan's power.

Liana and Jessica had even better luck during their raids on the Crimson Shadow Cult strongholds gaining a lot for the clan:

1. Silver Coins:

• 120,000,000 Silver Coins

2. Mystic Weapons:

• 10x Dual Swords

• 8x Warhammers

• 15x Spears

• 20x Longbows

• 12x Mystic Swords

• 12x Mystic Daggers

• 18x Mystic Blades

• 10x Heavy Crossbows

• 5x Flamewhips

• 6x Throwing Daggers

• 10x Mystic Longswords

• 10x Short Swords

3. Spirit Crystals:

• 25x Spirit Crystals

4. Earth and Mystic Grade Pills:

• 500x Earth Grade Pills

• 600x Earth Grade Spiritual Pills

• 80x Rejuvenation Pills

• 40x Vitality Pills

• 25x Mystic Energy Pills

• 10x Soul Strength Pills

5. Cultivation Manuals:

• 5x "Shadow Strike Mastery"

• 5x "Infernal Flame Art"

• 5x "Crimson Veil Combat Form"

• 4x "Moonlit Fang Technique"

• 4x "Flamewrought Technique"

• 5x "Dragon Roar Strike"

• 5x "Celestial Surge Movement"

• 6x "Blood Moon Ascendant"

• 4x "Mystic Dragon Fist"

6. Dark Armor Pieces:

• 8x Light Armor Sets

• 5x Heavy Plate Armor Sets

• 5x Wind Cloaks

• 3x Strength Rings

• 5x Mystic Cloaks of the Flame Monarch

• 4x Mystic Cloaks of the Fire Monarch

• 1x Protective Arm Guard of the Phoenix

7. Rare Materials:

• 10x Fire-Infused Steel

• 7x Dragon Bone Fragments

• 4x Phoenix Feathers

• 6x Demon Essence Orbs

• 2x Ice Crystals

• 6x Dragon Bones

• 3x Spirit Crystals

• 10x Soul Essence Shards

• 2x Heavenly Cloudstone

8. Demonic Artifacts:

• 2x "Dagger of Eternity"

• 2x "Cloak of the Shadow King"

• 2x "Dagger of the Shadow King"

• 2x "Cloak of the Dark Embrace"

• 2x "Talisman of Eternal Night"

• 2x "Soul Eater's Blade"

9. Dark Elixirs:

• 10x "Crimson Fury Elixirs"

• 6x "Reaper's Soul Essence"

• 4x "Demon's Blood Elixirs"

• 2x "Blood of the Phoenix"

10. Scrolls of Summoning:

• 5x Lesser Demon Summoning Scrolls

• 4x Dark Beast Summoning Scrolls

• 2x Greater Demon Summoning Scrolls

• 5x Demon Beast Scrolls

11. Cultist Documents:

• 4x Detailed Cult Plans

• 3x Maps of Sacred Sites

• 5x Strategic War Plans

• 2x Recruitment Schemes

12. Specialized Training Tools:

• 3x Martial Arts Dummies

• 3x Combat Simulation Crystals

• 5x Martial Arts Training Dummies

• 4x Combat Simulation Tools

13. Mystic Items:

• 5x Celestial Stones

• 4x "Ravenous Heart" – Artifacts to boost cultivation

• 10x Mystic Rings (element-based)

• 8x Spirit Scrolls

• 10x Teleportation Scrolls

• 10x Enchantment Stones

• 6x Lesser Demon Summoning Scrolls

14. Miscellaneous:

• 15x Mystic Rings (element-based)

• 10x Spirit Scrolls

• 5x Teleportation Stones

• 3x Map of Hidden Relics

• 1x Bloodstone Chalice (used in dark rituals)

• 2x Demon Essence Pools

During Xavier's time in seclusion, Raiden worked tirelessly, pushing himself to his limits to cultivate and improve. Though the journey was fraught with struggles, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt, Raiden's determination and his unwavering desire to make his master proud allowed him to break through to the 8th level Earth rank warrior. His growth was evident not only in his strength but also in his resolve and composure.

As Xavier arrived at the palace, he immediately noticed the lively discussion in the grand hall. Jessica, Liana, Mara, Eddie, Felix, and Tonya were seated around a long table, their conversation focused on the upcoming realm tournament. Their faces were a mix of excitement and concern as they debated whether Xavier would be fully recovered in time to participate.

"I'm telling you," Jessica said with a firm yet hopeful tone, "Xavier doesn't just recover—he comes back stronger. He always does."

"But the tournament is just days away," Mara interjected, her expression cautious. "Even someone like Xavier has limits."

Liana smiled slightly, leaning back in her chair. "You underestimate him. I've seen Xavier defy limits time and time again."

As the group continued their discussion, Xavier stepped into the room, his presence instantly commanding attention. The room fell silent, and all eyes turned toward him. His tall stature, radiant aura, and calm demeanor exuded strength and confidence.

"Talking about me, I see," Xavier said with a small smirk.

Jessica was the first to move, walking over to him with relief and affection in her eyes. "You're back!" she said, throwing her arms around him. "We were starting to wonder if you'd emerge in time."

Xavier gently returned her embrace and looked at the others, his golden dragon eye glowing faintly. "I wouldn't miss this tournament for anything," he said confidently. "And by the time it's over, the Soul Clan will have another victory to its name."

The room erupted in cheers and laughter as Xavier joined the group, the weight of his return and his words lifting their spirits.

Xavier raised a hand, quieting the group with a calm yet commanding presence. His golden dragon eye flickered with a faint glow as he surveyed his companions, their expressions filled with curiosity and anticipation.

"There's someone I'd like you all to meet," he announced, his voice steady but warm. "Our newest member—and my second disciple."

All eyes turned toward the door as Xavier gestured. "You know you can come in, right?" he said with a slight smile.

The door creaked open, and a nervous yet composed Tonya stepped into the room. She bowed respectfully to the group, her delicate features tinged with determination despite her modest aura as a 3rd-level Noble rank warrior. The room fell silent for a moment as the others sized her up, sensing her lower cultivation level but also the potential she carried.

"Greetings, everyone," Tonya said, her voice steady despite her nerves. "I'm Tonya Blain. It's an honor to be here, and I'll do my best to live up to Master Xavier's teachings and the Soul Clan's expectations."

Jessica, ever the warm-hearted leader, stepped forward first, offering a kind smile and an extended hand. "Welcome, Tonya. Anyone Xavier chooses to teach is bound to be exceptional. We're glad to have you with us."

The others quickly followed suit, greeting her warmly:

Liana nodded approvingly. "You have big shoes to fill, but if Xavier chose you, I have no doubt you'll rise to the occasion."

Mara smirked and gave her a pat on the shoulder. "Stick around long enough, and you'll see how crazy things get. You'll fit in just fine."

Eddie and Felix both greeted her with polite bows, their expressions neutral but kind.

Raiden, standing near the corner of the room, smiled faintly and gave her a reassuring nod. "Master chooses wisely. Welcome to the clan, Tonya."

Tonya's initial nervousness began to ease as she felt the warmth and camaraderie of the group. She glanced at Xavier, who gave her an encouraging nod.

"Thank you all," she said, her voice more confident now. "I won't let any of you down."

With that, the group returned to their discussions, seamlessly including Tonya in the fold. Xavier watched the interactions closely, pleased with how readily his clan had accepted his newest disciple. It was yet another step forward for the growing strength and unity of the Soul Clan.

Xavier leaned back in his chair, surveying the lively discussion around him, before signaling for one of the palace messengers. "Go find Raiden," he instructed. "Tell him to come here immediately."

The messenger bowed and disappeared out the door. Moments later, the doors opened again, and Raiden strode in confidently, his refined presence drawing attention. His new cultivation as an 8th-level Earth Rank warrior was evident in his demeanor—his movements were sharper, his aura more controlled.

"Master," Raiden greeted, bowing deeply.

Xavier stood, a rare smile spreading across his face as he approached his disciple. "Raiden," he began, his tone both proud and reflective, "you've grown stronger—much stronger. I can feel it." He placed a firm hand on Raiden's shoulder. "You've inspired me to push even harder. Congratulations on your breakthrough. I couldn't be prouder."

Raiden's expression softened, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Master. I still have so much to learn, but I'll continue working to make you proud and to uphold the strength of the Soul Clan."

Xavier nodded approvingly before turning back to the rest of the group, his dragon eye glinting faintly with anticipation. "Now, everyone," he said, his voice carrying authority, "I want to show you all what I brought back from my conquest of the stronghold."

The room fell silent, all eyes on Xavier as he summoned several storage rings from his palm. With a wave of his hand, the rings glowed, and the room was suddenly filled with an overwhelming display of wealth and resources.

Silver coins spilled out in shining piles, weapons of various sizes and mystical energies hovered in the air, spiritual pills of vibrant colors glowed within their containers, and rare spiritual herbs filled the air with their potent aroma.

"This," Xavier said, gesturing to the vast collection, "is what I acquired from the stronghold I took down. All of this now belongs to the Soul Clan."

The group stared in awe at the treasures before them. Jessica stepped closer, inspecting the collection with an impressed look. "This is enough to rival some mid-tier sects," she said.

Liana let out a low whistle. "You weren't kidding when you said the stronghold was full of resources. This will elevate us to a whole new level."

Mara grinned. "With these weapons and pills, our warriors will have the edge they need."

Eddie and Felix nodded in agreement, their eyes gleaming with excitement.

Raiden, standing by Xavier's side, crossed his arms and surveyed the wealth. "Master, with these resources, we'll be unstoppable in the coming tournaments and wars."

Xavier nodded. "This is just the beginning. We'll distribute these strategically to strengthen our clan, ensuring everyone has the tools to reach their full potential. The Soul Clan will not just survive; we'll dominate."