Jin Shang lay on his bed, the room illuminated only by the faint glow of the Abyssal Core's energy within him. The weight of his recent battles and the cost of wielding the Abyss pressed heavily on his mind. Even as he tried to rest, his thoughts churned.
"Is this power truly worth it?" he muttered to himself.
Suddenly, a shimmering notification appeared before his eyes, glowing with an ethereal light:
---
"Cosmic Movement Activation Requirements:
1. Devour 12 World Tree Fruits
2. Absorb 4 God-Level Monster Cores
3. Fuse with 6 God-Tier Artifacts
4. Devour the flesh dragon king, Demon King,and giant king
Once completed, Cosmic Movement will be initiated."**
---
Jin sat up abruptly, his heart pounding. "Cosmic Movement? This can't be real…"
He had heard of Cosmic Movement only in myths—an elusive, god-like cultivation system reserved for rare beings of immense power. Its completion was said to grant near-immortality, unimaginable strength, and a physique capable of rivaling the gods themselves.
"Each World Tree Fruit alone grants the power of a war god," he whispered, trying to comprehend the scale of the requirement. "And to absorb a God-Level Monster Core without being torn apart? It's madness."
Jin shook his head, a faint smile forming. "But I don't need it. I already have the Abyssal Core. This power is enough to challenge even the higher beings—if I master it."
---
A Sudden Visit
As Jin was lost in thought, the door creaked open, and Lia entered. Her sharp gaze softened when she saw him smiling to himself.
"What's with that stupid grin?" she asked, walking over to pinch his cheek playfully.
"Ow!" Jin winced, swatting her hand away. "It's nothing."
"Sure it is," Lia teased. Before she could press further, the doorbell rang sharply, breaking the moment.
Jin stood, his expression turning serious. "You may come in," he said, his voice firm.
The door opened to reveal a tall, dark-haired man dressed in a sleek black coat. His piercing eyes and confident stride exuded authority.
"Lysander," Jin said, recognizing the man immediately.
Lysander smirked. "Long time no see, Jin. Congratulations on surviving the Abyss. Not many can claim that."
Jin inclined his head slightly. "I assume you're not here for pleasantries. What do you want?"
Lysander's smirk widened. "You know me too well. Yes, I need your help. But first, let me say this—your achievement has shaken the entire world. Celestials, Specters, and even the Rankers' Association are watching your every move."
Jin crossed his arms. "Get to the point, Lysander."
"I want you to join me in dismantling the Rankers' Association," Lysander said bluntly.
Lia gasped, her eyes widening in shock. "That's insane! They're one of the most powerful organizations in existence."
Jin remained silent, his gaze fixed on Lysander. "And what's in it for me?"
Lysander pulled out a parchment and handed it to Jin. "I know about Cosmic Movement. Help me, and I'll provide you with the ingredients you need to activate it. All of them."
Jin's eyes narrowed as he scanned the list. "You're saying you can get 12 World Tree Fruits, 4 God-Level Monster Cores, and 6 God-Tier Artifacts,dragon king-Demon King- giant king flesh? Do you even understand what you're offering?"
Lysander raised his right thumb, the symbol of a celestial contract glowing faintly on his hand. "I don't make empty promises. This condition will be fulfilled."
---
A Difficult Farewell
Jin was stunned but quickly masked his shock with a faint smile. Lia, however, was visibly troubled.
"What are you getting yourself into?" she demanded.
Jin turned to her, his expression softening. "Lia, from now on, we'll have to part ways. This mission is dangerous, and I can't drag you into it."
"What are you saying?" Lia asked, her voice trembling. "You can't just leave like this."
Jin placed a hand on her head, patting it gently. "Don't worry. When this is over, I'll come back. But for now, I need to walk this path alone."
Lia bit her lip, her sadness evident. But she said nothing, nodding silently as tears welled up in her eyes.
---
The First Step
Lysander broke the heavy silence. "Before we begin, we'll need a team. This isn't something we can accomplish alone."
Jin nodded, his determination unwavering. "Then let's assemble one. If the Rankers' Association stands in our way, we'll tear it down."
Lysander's smirk returned. "Good. The time of the Rankers' Association is over. Let's bring them to their knees."
As they left the room, Lia watched Jin's back, her heart heavy with worry and unspoken words. She knew his journey would be perilous, but she also knew there was no stopping him now.
Far beyond their reach, the celestial families and higher beings were already making their moves, plotting against Jin and the power he sought to unleash.
The war for the future had only just begun.