New Beginning

Before Alex departed, he and Strider made a mutual agreement to keep Strider's cultivation a secret.

Alex warned that no matter how trustworthy someone in the barony might seem, secrets of this magnitude would inevitably find their way to the outside world.

Strider agreed wholeheartedly, understanding the dangers that such revelations could bring, both to himself and to the Cromwell family.

Alex, impressed by Strider's determination, offered the family's resources to support his cultivation.

"You've earned the family's support, Strider. Whatever resources you need, they are yours."

But Strider respectfully declined.

"The resources would not benefit me as much as they would benefit Silvia. She has the talent and the potential to advance further with proper guidance and resources. It's better that the family invests in her future rather than diverting resources toward me. Doing otherwise might draw unwanted attention and raise suspicions."

Alex studied him for a moment before nodding in approval.

"You're wise beyond your years, Strider. Your foresight and loyalty to the family's prosperity are admirable. Silvia's growth is indeed crucial to our lineage."

Strider then informed Alex of his plans to travel across the empire, ostensibly to seek rare heavenly resources for his physical cultivation and to learn advanced physical combat techniques.

"To fully harness my physical cultivation,"

Strider explained, "I need techniques tailored to it. Only then can I showcase the full potential of a physical cultivator."

This, however, was a half-truth. Strider's actual plan was to venture to the Duke Daemon territory, a region bordering the dangerous Dark Forest, where he could hunt monsters for their valuable cores.

These cores could be sold to the Dark Moon Branch in the Duke's territory in exchange for spirit stones, which he desperately needed to prepare for the next simulation.

Alex found no fault in Strider's reasoning and agreed with his decision but added a condition: "You must return to the barony at least once a year. I need to know you're alive and well."

Strider smiled and accepted the condition. "You have my word, great-great-grandfather."

As Strider walked back to the mansion, his mind raced with thoughts of the future. Strengthening the Cromwell family was a long-term goal, but for now, his priority was securing enough resources for his growth.

He resolved to meet Silvia before his departure, knowing that their bond was too strong to leave without saying goodbye.

That evening, Strider found Silvia practicing diligently in the training field. When she saw him approach, she lowered her wooden sword and smiled.

"Brother, is something on your mind?" she asked, tilting her head.

Strider sat her down and, for the first time that day, allowed himself to speak freely. "Silvia, I'm leaving tomorrow morning on a trip."

Silvia's eyes widened. "A trip? Why? Is it because of great-great-grandfather Alex?"

She has seen her great-great-grandfather just came in from outside before her brother which can explain the reason.

Strider nodded, weaving the lie carefully. "He's entrusted me with some tasks that require me to travel far from the barony. It's an important responsibility, but I promise I'll come back soon."

Silvia frowned, tears welling up in her eyes. "But… you've always been here for me, Brother. What if something happens while you're away? Who will protect me?"

Strider felt a pang of guilt but masked it with a reassuring smile. "You're strong, Silvia. Stronger than you think. And even if I'm not here, I know you'll continue to make great progress. Besides, this is something I must do—not just for myself, but for our family's future."

Silvia finally broke down, crying into his chest. "You'd better come back soon. Even if you fail at whatever task they've given you, I'll take the blame for you. Just come back."

Her words struck a deep chord in Strider's heart. He gently stroked her hair and promised himself that no matter what dangers lay ahead, he would protect her future.

"I promise," he said softly. "I'll always come back for you."

The next morning, as the sun began to rise, Strider prepared to leave without fanfare. He had informed only Alex and Silvia of his plans.

Alex, true to his word, would inform the rest of the family that Strider had been assigned a task under Alex's direct orders, a convenient explanation that would keep questions at bay.

Strider packed lightly, carrying only the essentials: a few basic supplies, a concealed sword given by alex.

He wanted to travel discreetly, avoiding unnecessary attention.

As he stood at the mansion gates, he cast one last glance back at the place he had called home.

Memories of his time with Silvia and the rest of the family flooded his mind, but he pushed them aside.

This journey wasn't just about survival—it was about seizing the opportunities that would ensure his future success.

With a deep breath, Strider stepped onto the road leading out of the Cromwell barony.

As he traveled toward the Duke Daemon territory, Strider's thoughts were a mix of anticipation and planning.

The Dark Forest, while dangerous, was a treasure trove of opportunities for those brave enough to venture inside. The monsters within were powerful, but their cores were worth a fortune.

Strider also thought about the long-term implications of his decisions. By staying out of the spotlight and avoiding unnecessary conflicts, he could build his strength steadily while ensuring the safety of his family.

His immediate goal was to amass spirit stones and resources, but his ultimate objective was far greater: to reshape his fate and the future of the Cromwell family.

Strider's journey to the Duke Daemon territory marked the start of a new chapter in his life. The challenges ahead were daunting, but he felt ready to face them. His Peak Wraith abilities, combined with his growing physical cultivation, gave him a distinct advantage over most adversaries.

As he approached the borders of the Dark Forest, the dense, ominous trees loomed in the distance, their shadows stretching across the landscape like a forewarning. Strider clenched his fists, feeling the raw power coursing through his body.

"This is just the beginning," he murmured to himself. "I'll return stronger. Strong enough to protect the family, Silvia, and the future I've chosen."

With that, he stepped forward, leaving behind the comfort of the barony and venturing into the unknown. The road ahead was uncertain, but Strider's resolve was unwavering. He would face whatever came his way, and he would emerge victorious.