NOVEL NEXT Chapter 15: Chapter 15: A Path of Consequence
Chapter 15: A Path of Consequence
The alley was dim, the sounds of the city bustling around it muffled by the walls and shadows. Kayode's steps echoed softly as he walked, his mind still processing the events of the last few hours. He had rescued Ling Yue from the Coiled Serpent Sect disciples, but in doing so, he had earned their ire. He could feel the weight of their gaze lingering on him, even now.
Oba, perched on his shoulder, seemed to sense Kayode's thoughts. "You did the right thing, Kayode," the black dragon cat purred, tail flicking idly. "But the consequences are unavoidable. The Coiled Serpent Sect doesn't forgive easily."
Kayode's grip tightened on his staff as he glanced back toward the street. "I know. They think they can intimidate me. But I won't let them harm anyone else."
Oba's golden eyes narrowed. "They will come after you, and not just them. The cultivation world is full of power-hungry sects, and you've just made your first mark. Prepare yourself."
Kayode exhaled sharply, steeling himself for the challenges ahead. He had always known the cultivation world was a place of cruelty, but it was different now. He was no longer an outsider looking in—he was a part of it, whether he liked it or not. And with that, came the responsibilities he couldn't ignore.
As they walked through the narrow streets, Kayode heard a sound in the distance—a voice, weak but clear, calling for help. Without thinking, he followed the voice, his steps quickening. Oba, sensing his intent, didn't protest.
They reached the source of the sound in a narrow alleyway just off the main road. The sight that greeted them made Kayode's blood run cold. A group of three Coiled Serpent Sect disciples stood over a young woman, her delicate form trembling beneath them. Her clothes were torn, and she was crying, struggling against their cruel grip.
"Please... no... don't...," the woman, Ling Yue, begged, her voice breaking.
Kayode's heart clenched. Without thinking, he stepped forward, his anger rising. "Leave her alone."
The sect disciples paused, turning toward him with smirks. One of them, the leader, sneered. "Another hero? Do you think you can stop us? We're disciples of the Coiled Serpent Sect. You are nothing."
Kayode didn't hesitate. His bloodline surged within him, filling him with power. His staff rose with precision as he struck the nearest disciple. The crack of bone was followed by a scream of agony as the man crumpled to the ground, unable to defend himself.
The other two disciples were momentarily stunned, but they quickly recovered. One of them drew a short sword, aiming for Kayode's throat. But Kayode was faster. With a swift movement, he sidestepped the attack, his staff striking out again. The disciple's sword shattered on impact, and the man was sent flying into the stone wall, his body limp and lifeless.
The remaining disciple charged, rage filling his eyes. But Kayode's movements were fluid, his staff a blur of motion. The man was no match for him. A final strike to the chest sent him crashing to the ground, his Qi extinguished in an instant.
Silence fell over the alley. The Coiled Serpent Sect disciples lay defeated at Kayode's feet, their lives extinguished in mere moments. Kayode turned toward Ling Yue, his expression softening. She was still on the ground, trembling, her hands clutching her torn clothes.
"It's over," Kayode said gently. "You're safe now."
Ling Yue looked up at him, her tear-streaked face full of gratitude and awe. "You... you saved me. Thank you."
Kayode extended his hand to help her up. As she took it, he noticed the glimmer of something in her eyes—something beyond mere gratitude. There was a spark of potential there, a strength waiting to be unlocked.
Oba's voice echoed in his mind. "Kayode, you did well. But don't forget, she is just a mortal. She can never defend herself against the cultivation world without guidance. You should give her a way to protect herself."
Kayode looked down at Ling Yue, the realization dawning on him. He could not simply leave her here to fend for herself. He had the power to offer her a chance, a path forward in this cruel world. But the question was: what could he give her?
The system's voice echoed in his mind, offering a solution.
"Kayode, for 100 AP, you can purchase the Soaring Dragon Technique. It's a cultivation technique that allows the user to condense a drop of the Soaring Dragon bloodline essence, potentially transforming them into a soaring dragon. This technique would give Ling Yue the power to protect herself, but it will require time and effort to master."
Kayode nodded, his decision clear. "Buy it."
"Purchase successful."
He turned to Ling Yue, holding out his hand once more. "I've bought something for you. A cultivation technique. The Soaring Dragon Technique. It will allow you to awaken your potential and protect yourself. But it will require hard work."
Ling Yue's eyes widened, both astonished and touched. "You... you'd really do that for me?"
Kayode smiled softly. "I see potential in you, Ling Yue. You don't have to stay a victim of this cruel world. You can rise above it."
Oba's voice rumbled in his mind. "Good choice. You're shaping your own future now, Kayode. But remember, not everyone will be as kind as you are."
Ling Yue bowed her head, her voice shaking with gratitude. "I... I will never forget this. I'll make sure to become strong. For myself... and for you."
Kayode turned and began to walk away, Oba jumping onto his shoulder. "Let's move on," Kayode said, determination burning in his chest. "This world is full of darkness, but I'll find those willing to fight for the light. And I'll help them find their strength."
As they disappeared into the streets, the shadows of the Coiled Serpent Sect loomed over them, but Kayode knew one thing for sure: the road ahead was long, but it was one he was ready to walk. For himself. For Ling Yue. And for anyone else who needed his help in this unforgiving world.
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System Notification:
Kayode, you have earned 150 AP for eliminating the Coiled Serpent Sect disciples and saving Ling Yue. These points can be used to further enhance your strength or purchase valuable items from the system.