It wasn't just the Astral Energy but also the Saber Essence.
Unlike Saber Intent, which was a warrior's comprehension of the Saber's will and Dao, Saber Essence was an actual manifestation of that comprehension, a force that could directly integrate with a warrior's body, soul, and weapon. Once one stepped into Saber Essence, their every slash would contain boundless saber Dao, capable of shaking the heavens.
However, refining an ownerless Saber Essence was no simple task. Unlike inherited Saber Essence, which naturally merged with a wielder's soul, an ownerless one was wild and chaotic. Without proper refinement, it could damage the foundation of the warrior who absorbed it, distorting their own comprehension of the saber.
Long Chen was asleep to be exact faint all his time in seclusion, working tirelessly, channelling the Astral energy into his body, and gradually, the power began to change him while also continuously refining the Saber Essence.
As days passed, everyone began to worry about Long Chen. He had sealed himself inside his immortal cave, and the rest of the Dragon Blood Legion could only wonder what he was doing. They could feel a strange aura emanating from the cave, but no one dared to disturb him.
While so, Long Chen who was faint, found himself in Sea of Saber as countless Saber techniques transpired around him and Long Chen got immersed into it.
Then, one day, two weeks later, the entire monastery was shaken by an intense wave of energy—a surge that seemed to make the very air thick with power. The skies above the 108th Xuantian Monastery flickered with light; a storm of energy surrounded it.
Two Divine Rings shone brightly in Sky with intense light, following which a Astral Starry Sky Sphere in Centre—Star Chart with Nine Star Spheres such that Seven Stars were Colourless and stagnant while Two Star had Vortex Light filled with Star Clusters and in Twice the amount compared to before. Following which Long Chen erupted out of the immortal cave completely destroying it.
He was now clad in Two-Coloured Armor: Red and Orange Coloured. And in his hand intensely condensed energy that could only be described as Saber Intent. It wasn't just any Saber Intent—it was far more condensed, more focused, and more powerful than anything they had ever sensed before. The Saber energy had taken on a life of its own, radiating outward in waves of unrelenting force.
The Dragon Blood Legion watched in awe. The energy felt different, almost alive in a way.
And then, as the energy began to settle, the realization hit.
Long Chen had reached the half-step Martial Dao Essence of the Saber Dao.
Split the Heavens: First Form
As Long Chen emerged from his cave, the Dragon Blood Legion was already gathering, eager to see what had changed. They could feel the magnitude of the power that had erupted from the cave, and they knew that their leader had broken through to another level.
Long Chen didn't speak immediately. Instead, he began to move, drawing his saber in a slow, deliberate motion. He could feel the Saber Dao flowing through his veins, filling him with unmatched confidence. With a single motion, Long Chen cut through the air in front of him, and the very heavens seemed to tremble.
This was his creation—the updated/modified First Form of Split the Heavens. It wasn't the completed technique, but it was his own version, a self-created form that drew upon the Saber Intent he had refined but it also assured that Long Chen could now strive onto his own Path with the upgraded and Self-Created Split the Heavens.
The energy of the Saber Dao mixed with his own astral power, and the sword crackled with immense might. But as the slash cut through the air, it was clear that the technique was incomplete. Long Chen had only the script for the first form of Split the Heavens, and had self-created the second form from that, but it was missing vital elements—the scripture of the second form was yet to be found.
Still, it was enough to mark a milestone in Long Chen's growth.
The Dragon Blood Legion cheered. They could feel the new energy within their leader, a force that had once seemed so far away now becoming a reality.
Long Chen's triumphant return to his home in the Phoenix Cry Empire was met with overwhelming joy and heartfelt reunions. After a week had passed since the events at Skywood Palace, Guo Ran and Mo Nian finally emerged from their seclusion, their auras noticeably stronger. With the group now together again, they set off toward the Phoenix Cry Empire, eager to reunite with their families.
First Week:
As they left the monastery, the warriors of the Dragon Blood Legion moved in an orderly manner. Many of them were reflecting on the intense battles they had faced, and there was a solemn air at first. Long Chen rode alongside Guo Ran and Mo Nian, who were still brimming with energy after their seclusion training.
"Boss, I swear, after this, I'm only going to eat, drink, and sleep," Guo Ran declared, stretching his arms. "Finally, time to rest in ease, no more near-death battles, at least for a while."
Mo Nian smirked. "Hah! That's what you always say. But we all know you'll be designing new armor within three days."
Long Chen chuckled, shaking his head. "You two never change. But honestly, I'm just looking forward to seeing my parents and Xiaoyu again. It's been too long."
As they traveled, they came across small villages that had heard of their exploits. Some of the villagers cheered for them, offering food and shelter as thanks for protecting the lands. Long Chen and his companions accepted their gratitude humbly, and in turn, helped fortify some of the weaker settlements, reinforcing walls and giving basic training to the young warriors.
Second Week:
In the second week, the journey took them through dense forests and river-crossings. One evening, as they camped by a riverbank, Long Chen sat by the fire with Xiao Hua and Chu Yao, watching the stars above.
"After everything we've been through, sometimes I wonder if we'll ever truly have peace," Chu Yao murmured.
Long Chen took her hand, squeezing it gently. "Peace is fleeting, but the moments we share make the journey worthwhile. As long as we have each other, we will always find a way to keep moving forward."
Xiao Hua leaned against him, her voice soft. "You always bear the burden of others, Long Chen. Just promise us that you'll share your burdens with us too."
He nodded. "I promise."
Later that week, they encountered a group of warriors blocking the road—remnants of the Corrupt Path that had not yet been eradicated. A brief skirmish ensued, but the Dragon Blood Legion easily overpowered them. It was a reminder that dangers still lurked, even as they journeyed home.
Third Week:
By the third week, the air grew warmer, and the sight of familiar landscapes lifted everyone's spirits. The Phoenix Cry Empire's borders were in sight. Many warriors from the Dragon Blood Legion, who hailed from the empire, became emotional, knowing they would soon see their families after so long.
Guo Ran grinned as he stretched his arms. "Ah, civilization! Finally! I need a hot bath, good wine, and some decent food!"
Mo Nian laughed. "Let's not forget the families waiting for us. I bet my old man's going to chew me out for not writing."
As they crossed the final stretch of land entering the border of the Phoenix Cry Empire, a group of imperial soldiers greeted them. "Welcome hero of the Phoenix Cry Empire! Welcome heroes who saved the civilians and innocents from the grasp of evil and corrupts! The capital awaits you!"
As Long Chen approached the gates of his home, the Capital of Empire, the familiar sights and scents of the empire filled him with warmth. The imperial guards, upon recognizing him, immediately knelt in deep reverence, their faces filled with admiration and respect. News of his feats had long since reached the empire, and he was no longer just a returning warrior—he was a legend.
The first to greet him was his sister, Long Xiaoyu. As soon as she saw him, though she was just playing outside and as an infant just stared at Long Chen curiously.
Long Chen chuckled, catching her in a tight embrace. "Of course, you remember me right... I am your big brother. Dos the little one remember me?"
Long Xiaoyu smiled brightly as her cute face enhanced the view and Long Chen fell down along with many others of Dragon Blood Legion paralyzed by cuteness of a child.
Just then, his mother stepped forward. Her eyes were moist with unshed tears, but she held her composure. "My son... my Long Chen," she whispered, cupping his face. "You've grown so much."
"Mother..." Long Chen's voice was thick with emotion as he hugged her tightly.
Long Tianxiao, his father, stood behind them, watching the reunion with pride shining in his eyes. "Come here, son."
Long Chen stepped forward, embracing his father. The firm grip of Long Tianxiao reassured him. "You've made us proud, son. But no matter how strong you become, remember—you're still our child."
Long Chen laughed, wiping a tear from his eye. "Of course, Father."
Their family moment was interrupted when Emperor Chu, his father-in-law and ruler of Phoenix Cry Empire, stepped forward. His regal bearing was softened by the relief and happiness on his face. "Long Chen, you have returned safely. That is all I could ask for," he said, embracing him as a father would his own son. "You have brought honor to our empire. I could not have wished for a better son-in-law."
Chu Yao smiled as she stood beside Long Chen, her love for him evident in her eyes. "Father, I have returned as well, and I will always stand by Long Chen's side."
Emperor Chu nodded, his gaze sweeping over the warriors who had accompanied Long Chen. "All of you have made our people as well your own family proud. The Phoenix Cry Empire will always be one of your home."
Guo Ran and Mo Nian grinned as they greeted the emperor and then turned to Long Chen's family. "Auntie, Uncle, we've been taking care of Long Chen, so don't worry. Though honestly, he's the one who always ends up saving us," Guo Ran joked.
The warmth of the reunion was further heightened as members of the Dragon Blood Legion arrived. Long Tianxiao looked at them all, eyes filled with gratitude. "You are all Long Chen's brothers and sisters. From now on, you are my children too. Our family is your family."
Tears glistened in the eyes of the Dragon Blood Legion members. Having fought countless battles together, their bond with Long Chen was unbreakable, but to be accepted as family by his own father was an honor beyond words.
The atmosphere grew even warmer as the family moved inside, sitting together in the grand hall, where servants brought out an extravagant feast. Long Chen sat between his mother and sister, answering their countless questions about his adventures. His mother held his hand, refusing to let go, while his sister excitedly shared her own training progress.
Master Yun, the Pill Emperor and Long Chen's mentor, also arrived with his wife. "You rascal, I've been hearing about your exploits. You're making a name for yourself, but don't forget to keep your head on straight!" Master Yun chided, though there was a clear fondness in his voice.
His wife, a graceful woman with a kind smile, placed a hand on Long Chen's shoulder. "We are proud of you, Long Chen. But do not let the weight of the world rest solely on your shoulders. You have people who care for you."
Long Chen nodded, touched by their words. "I understand, Master. Thank you for your guidance."
His friends, too, took this opportunity to visit their families. The reunion was filled with laughter and tears, with the warriors of the Phoenix Cry Empire embracing their loved ones. Those who had not been chosen for the Xuantian Monastery had instead been given the chance to join the Phoenix Cry Empire's forces, and they stood proudly as they shared stories of their own battles.
To Be Continued...