Chapter 7: The Inheritance Site
Alex and Max stepped into the vast second phase of the secret realm. Compared to the first phase, where energy was chaotic and opportunities scarce, this new area buzzed with activity. The air shimmered faintly with spiritual energy, creating a strange but invigorating pressure.
"This is insane," Max muttered, scanning their surroundings. "It's like we've stepped into an ancient battlefield or something."
Alex nodded in agreement. Surrounding them was a sprawling valley enclosed by jagged mountains, and dotted across the terrain were large groups of people. Many of them appeared to be from different countries, their features and attire distinct. Some wore high-tech armor, while others sported traditional robes or tactical combat gear.
The hum of conversation reached their ears.
"Did you hear? The Inheritance Site has appeared!"
"Anyone above F3 can enter the building to try their luck!"
"People are already claiming inheritances—secret techniques, cultivation methods, treasures!"
Alex raised an eyebrow. Inheritance Site?
Max grinned. "Looks like we're in for something good. I'm already F3 thanks to that fruit yesterday. If you get lucky, you might get something game-changing, too."
"Let's check it out," Alex replied, though he was more curious than excited.
---
A massive, ancient building stood in the center of the valley. Its structure seemed forged from obsidian and glowed faintly with mysterious runes. Despite its aged appearance, the building exuded a sense of untouchable power. Several entrances lined the front, guarded by glowing spiritual screens that repelled those below F3 rank.
Max walked ahead confidently, his aura faintly surging to confirm his F3 status. The screen rippled as it allowed him to pass.
Alex followed, stepping through as if the barrier didn't exist.
Inside, the air was cold and oppressive, as if carrying the weight of countless years. At the center of the main hall was a series of stone mats arranged in a formation. Students and warriors from various countries sat cross-legged on the mats, their faces pale with concentration as they endured mysterious tests.
"Guess we pick a spot," Alex muttered, choosing an empty mat. Max did the same a few spots away.
The moment Alex sat down and closed his eyes, a strange force pulled at him. His vision went dark.
---
When Alex opened his eyes again, he found himself standing in a pitch-black space. The air here was suffocating, yet oddly still. In the distance, a faint figure emerged—a tall, imposing old man with sharp features and a flowing white beard. He wore an ancient robe and carried a massive sword on his back, its blade pulsing with a quiet, deadly energy.
The old man froze when he saw Alex, his eyes widening with disbelief.
"Oh my… A youngster? Here?!" the old man exclaimed, his voice carrying a deep resonance that echoed in the void. "I didn't expect this. Has the spiritual power returned? And the secret realm has opened again? But even so… for you to make it here…"
The old man's astonished gaze swept over Alex. "You must possess exceptional comprehension to have passed through the barrier. I am impressed, little one. Do you wish to acknowledge me as your master?"
Alex blinked, his thoughts spinning. Master? What's this guy talking about?
He looked down at himself and realized he didn't feel anything special—no tests, no trials, no struggle. One moment he was meditating, and now he was standing here with this strange old man trying to poach him.
"Uh… Sorry, but no thanks," Alex said flatly.
The old man's smile froze. "…What?"
"I said no." Alex shrugged. "I don't really feel like bowing to anyone, you know?"
The silence stretched. The old man's jaw twitched as he processed what he'd just heard.
"Do you know who I am, boy?" he asked, his voice cold now. "In the ancient era, warriors across Earth would line up for centuries just to earn a chance to be my disciple! And you—you reject me? Without hesitation?"
Alex scratched his head, unmoved. "Yeah, well, that's great for them. But I have my reasons. Let's just say… I work alone."
For a moment, the old man's gaze bore into him as if trying to see through Alex's very soul. But then, something strange happened. A hearty laugh erupted from his throat, echoing across the void like thunder.
"Interesting!" he boomed, shaking his head. "Very well! I like your spirit, boy. I admire your resolve—even if you are a fool."
The old man sighed and unsheathed the sword on his back. The blade was sleek and deadly, with ancient runes glowing along its edge. Its mere presence seemed to distort the space around it.
"Since you've come this far, it would be a shame to let you leave empty-handed. I shall bestow upon you my greatest sword technique—the Void Severing Slash."
Alex perked up. Void Severing Slash?
"This is a technique that transcends mere physical strikes," the old man continued, his tone serious. "It allows you to tear through space itself with a single swing. If mastered, no opponent will be beyond your reach. But remember—this technique demands a clear will and indomitable focus. One hesitation, and it will destroy you."
The old man raised his hand, and the technique flowed into Alex's mind like a raging river. For an instant, Alex felt as if he was falling into an abyss, countless visions of sword strikes flashing before his eyes. His body instinctively trembled.
It's powerful… too powerful, he thought. But then something strange happened. His "Infinite Physique" began absorbing and refining the technique at an alarming rate. In mere moments, the overwhelming pressure disappeared, replaced by a calm understanding.
The old man, who had been watching, gasped. "You… learned it already?"
Alex opened his eyes and grinned. "I guess so. Thanks, old man."
The old man stared at him, his pride bruised but his eyes filled with admiration. "Hmph. Go, then. And don't forget the name of the one who gave you this power!"
---
Alex's eyes snapped open, and he found himself back in the building. Around him, students were still meditating or stumbling out of their own tests. The air was buzzing with excitement.
A deep, powerful voice boomed across the realm—the voice of the Planetary System.
"Announcing inheritance results."
"Look! The Goddess of Ice just got a powerful spear technique!" someone whispered.
"Goddess Yelena from the frost country… Her inheritance is an Ice Spear of Eternal Winter. She'll become terrifyingly strong!"
"That guy from the country of Valtherion,Murchus—got a flame mastery technique! Lucky bastard!"
"Max! Look at Max!" someone pointed.
Max stood up, his aura surging. His body radiated a faint golden glow, and the ground beneath him cracked.
"Earth Body Forging Technique…" someone murmured enviously. "That's one of the best body-strengthening methods here!"
Alex stood quietly amidst the chaos, his mind replaying the Void Severing Slash. Compared to the inheritances others received, his technique was on a whole different level.
"Hey, Alex!" Max called, grinning. "Did you get anything?"
Alex smirked faintly. "Yeah. Something decent."
Max laughed, punching him lightly on the shoulder. "Decent, huh? Well, I can't wait to see what you've got."
As the students celebrated and compared their results, Alex quietly clenched his fists. His path was only beginning, but with the Void Severing Slash, he had taken his first real step toward unmatched strength.