Night Training
That night, Seo Joon began studying the Harmonizing Circulation Art.
The technique forced opposing energies to rotate together, like light and shadow chasing each other endlessly.
The process was painful.
His meridians felt as if they were being torn apart and rebuilt.
Yet the Abyssal Heart responded.
Its chaotic power slowly aligned with his will.
Hours passed.
Days followed.
His control deepened.
His presence became sharper.
Stronger.
But unseen by him, within the depths of the Abyssal Heart…
something ancient stirred in response.
A Plot in Darkness
Elsewhere in the outer disciple quarters, Kang Min and the others gathered secretly.
"He is hiding something," Jin Woo said.
"That energy was not normal cultivation," Baek Hyun added.
Kang Min's expression darkened.
"If the elders favor him, we must uncover his secret ourselves."
He smiled coldly.
"The Outer Disciple Ranking Tournament approaches."
Silence filled the room.
During the tournament, combat was unrestricted.
Accidents happened.
Secrets were exposed.
"And if he dies," Kang Min continued quietly, "it will only prove he was never worthy."
Far above the sect, thunderclouds gathered around the mountain peaks.
The ancient instrument pulsed faster.
The Sect Master watched the readings with growing concern.
"The balance is forming," he whispered.
"But so is the storm."
Below, Seo Joon continued cultivating, unaware of the schemes surrounding him.
His control grew.
His strength increased.
His destiny advanced step by step.
And the coming tournament would determine whether he would rise…
—or be destroyed.