NOVEL NEXT Chapter 22: Chapter 22: Rebirth of a Warrior.
Chapter 22: Rebirth of a Warrior
Kayode stood at the edge of a cliff, gazing out at the vast expanse of mountains and forests before him. The air was alive with energy, his newly forged White Core pulsating in harmony with the natural world. Each breath he took seemed to fill him with boundless vitality, his body and spirit reborn.
"System," Kayode said, his voice steady and resolute, "what's my current status?"
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Status Update
Cultivation Realm: Peak Golden Core Realm (Unique White Core)
Bloodline Enhancement: Advanced
Bloodline Phantom: Activated
Physical Strength: 300% increase
Qi Flow: Seamless and Pure
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Oba stretched lazily on Kayode's shoulder, his golden eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Look at you, standing there all tall and proud. Don't let it go to your head, though. The real challenges are just beginning."
Kayode smirked. "You're starting to sound like the system."
Oba's tail flicked against Kayode's cheek. "Watch your mouth, boy. I'm far more charming."
The system chimed in, unbothered. "Charm aside, we have a more pressing matter. The Coiled Serpent Sect will undoubtedly be hunting you down. You need to master your new abilities before they find you."
Kayode nodded. "What's the plan?"
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Training the Core
The system's voice was firm. "Your White Core is unique, Kayode. To fully harness its power, you need to strengthen your connection to the Dao. This involves mastering the Four Pillars of Core Control:
1. Flow – The ability to circulate your Qi seamlessly through your body and surroundings.
2. Focus – The art of directing your Qi with precision and intent.
3. Fortification – Strengthening your body and core to withstand attacks.
4. Fusion – Merging your Qi with external elements, enhancing your attacks and defenses.
Each pillar will unlock a new layer of power in your White Core. But mastering them won't be easy."
Kayode cracked his knuckles. "Easy was never an option."
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Pillar One: Flow
Kayode began his training by sitting cross-legged, focusing on the circulation of his Qi. The system guided him through a series of exercises designed to refine his control.
"Feel the energy move through you," the system instructed. "Let it flow naturally, like water finding its path."
Kayode closed his eyes, his breathing steady. His Qi moved effortlessly through his meridians, its purity unmatched. The phantom of the Nigerian warrior appeared behind him, its presence amplifying the flow of energy.
"Good," the system said. "You've already mastered the basics. Now, let's test it in combat."
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Ambush in the Shadows
Kayode's training was interrupted by a sudden disturbance in the air. He opened his eyes, his senses heightened.
"Oba," he said quietly, "do you feel that?"
Oba's ears twitched. "We're not alone."
The shadows of the forest came alive as a group of masked cultivators emerged, their auras sinister. Kayode recognized the emblem on their robes—the Coiled Serpent Sect.
"So, they've already found me," Kayode muttered, standing.
The leader of the group stepped forward, his eyes cold. "Kayode, you've made quite the enemy of our sect. Surrender, and we might spare your life."
Kayode smirked, his confidence unwavering. "You've got it backward. It's your lives that are in danger."
The cultivators laughed, but their amusement was short-lived. As Kayode circulated his Qi, the air around him grew heavy with energy. The phantom warrior appeared behind him, its spear gleaming with deadly intent.
The leader's expression faltered. "What… what is that?"
Kayode didn't answer. He dashed forward, his movements a blur. His Qi flowed seamlessly through his body, enhancing his speed and strength. He struck the first cultivator with a palm strike, sending him flying into a tree.
Oba leapt from Kayode's shoulder, slashing at another attacker with his claws. "Don't forget about me, fools!" he taunted, his golden eyes glowing fiercely.
The remaining cultivators hesitated, fear creeping into their eyes. But the leader barked, "Don't falter! He's just one man!"
Kayode smiled coldly. "One man is all it takes."
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The Phantom Spear
Kayode focused his Qi into his hands, summoning the phantom warrior's spear. The weapon materialized in his grip, its energy crackling with power. With a single thrust, he unleashed a wave of destructive energy, scattering the cultivators like leaves in a storm.
The leader was the last to stand, his face pale. "This… this isn't possible…"
Kayode walked toward him, the phantom warrior looming behind him. "Tell your sect this: I'm not the same person you fought before. If they come for me again, I'll destroy them."
The leader fled, his fear evident in every step.
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A New Path
As the forest fell silent, Kayode lowered the spear, letting it dissolve into energy. Oba returned to his shoulder, licking his paw nonchalantly.
"Not bad," the cat said. "You might just survive this world after all."
Kayode smirked. "I'm not just surviving, Oba. I'm thriving. The Coiled Serpent Sect will learn to fear my name."
The system chimed in, its tone approving. "Well done, Kayode. You've mastered the first pillar. Three remain, and with each, your power will grow."
Kayode nodded, his resolve stronger than ever. "Let's keep going. I'm ready for whatever comes next."
To Be Continued...