The twin suns hung high in the sky, bathing the endless plains in warm golden light. Cryo stood quietly, feeling the heartbeat of the world beneath his feet. This place wasn't just a world; it was an entire universe wrapped in endless possibilities and hidden dangers.
Though his body thrummed with the infinite energy Jay had granted, Cryo knew that power alone would not shape his path. Understanding this vast realm—and the people who called it home—would be just as important.
His gaze wandered toward distant mountains, their jagged peaks like ancient guardians standing vigil over the valley below. Nestled there was a village alive with sound: laughter, the clashing of weapons, and the unmistakable hum of cultivation energy.
Drawn by a mix of curiosity and purpose, Cryo began his walk toward the village, the tall grasses parting beneath his feet.
The village training grounds were crowded. Two cultivators were locked in a fierce sparring match, their auras flashing like twin storms.
One was a youth with fiery eyes and blazing fists, each strike a burning testament to his sect—the Iron Fist Sect. The other wielded swift, cutting winds, his movements fluid and precise.
The crowd cheered, naming techniques and analyzing every move.
Cryo's presence quickly drew attention, and soon the fiery-eyed youth turned toward him, stepping forward with an unreadable expression.
"You there—the new face," Zhen Kai called out, his voice carrying a sharp edge of challenge. "This village doesn't welcome wanderers who don't know their place."
Cryo met his gaze evenly. "I'm just passing through."
Zhen Kai's eyes narrowed, flames flickering with pride and caution.
"In the Iron Fist Sect, strength commands respect. If you want to walk these lands, you'll have to prove you deserve your place."
A faint smile crept onto Cryo's lips. "Strength, huh? I'm curious."
Without hesitation, Zhen Kai ignited his fists in blazing flame, the air crackling around him.
With a fierce roar, he launched into his signature technique, "Blazing Tiger Strike."
A rapid barrage of fiery punches hammered toward Cryo, each blow infused with the raw might of the Iron Fist Sect's legacy.
Cryo moved with calm precision, weaving through the flames and strikes as if weightless.
As Zhen Kai overextended, Cryo's hand shot out, catching his wrist firmly but without harshness.
Then, Cryo unleashed "Void Pulse"—a concentrated wave of void energy that swept through Zhen Kai's internal flow like a cold storm.
The effect was immediate.
Zhen Kai's balance shattered.
Before he could recover, Cryo's palm pushed him back with overwhelming force, sending him flying through the air.
With a thunderous crash, Zhen Kai slammed into the mountainside, stone fracturing beneath him.
Pain flared through his body, but he pushed himself up, breathing heavily—not defeated, but humbled.
Minutes passed in heavy silence before Zhen Kai wiped blood from his lip and rose to his full height. The fire in his eyes burned brighter—not with arrogance, but newfound respect.
He walked toward Cryo steadily, his voice steady and sincere.
"You're unlike anyone I've ever faced. I underestimated you."
Cryo's smile softened.
"Then maybe you can show me around. I'm new here."
Zhen Kai's grin returned, warmer this time.
"I'm Zhen Kai, heir to the Iron Fist Sect. It'd be my honor to guide a man like you."
Together, they walked into the village, the last rays of sunlight painting the streets gold.
The village buzzed with life—market stalls lined with herbs and artifacts, children weaving between buildings, and cultivators practicing openly, their auras flaring in dazzling displays.
Zhen Kai pointed out landmarks as they passed.
"That's our sect headquarters. We specialize in harnessing elemental fire in combat. Over there is the Wind Shadow Clan—they're masters of stealth and speed."
Cryo listened intently, piecing together the world around him.
"There's also the Mountain Guard and the River Sage Cultivators, each with their own strengths and secrets," Zhen Kai continued. "This village might seem small, but it's the crossroads of many powerful clans."
He shared stories of legendary battles and hidden treasures scattered throughout the region—secrets waiting for someone strong enough to claim them.
Cryo felt the weight of opportunity settle on his shoulders. This world was full of challenges and mysteries—and he intended to face them all.
They stopped near a quiet fountain at the village center. Water shimmered beneath the rising moon, and the gentle chirping of crickets filled the night air.
Zhen Kai glanced at Cryo thoughtfully.
"You've already made waves in the village with your strength. Be careful—some here won't welcome someone rising this fast."
Cryo nodded. "Power means little without knowing the world around you."
Zhen Kai smiled, clapping him on the shoulder.
"You'll do fine. Strength is important, but so are the bonds you build."
The two shared a comfortable silence, the tension from their battle replaced by a growing camaraderie.
As the village lights flickered on, casting warm glows on cobblestone streets, Zhen Kai gestured toward a bustling tavern.
"Come on. Let me introduce you to some friends. There's more to this world than fighting."
Cryo returned the smile, feeling an unfamiliar but welcome sense of belonging.
Together, they stepped toward the lively tavern, the sounds of music and conversation welcoming them.
The night air was cool and pleasant, carrying with it the promise of new friendships and adventures just beginning.