Xian Zhen stepped through the massive stone gates, his eyes scanning the lively streets of Martial City. It was nothing like the cities he had known before.
Towering pagoda-style buildings stretched high into the sky, glowing symbols engraved on their walls. Warriors in long robes walked proudly, their swords and spears radiating power. Beasts of various sizes moved alongside humans—some as mounts, others as partners.
Merchants shouted from stalls, selling everything from glowing weapons to strange pills that emitted powerful auras. The scent of roasted meat and medicinal herbs filled the air, mixing with the faint energy of countless warriors training in the distance.
Xian smirked. "Now this… this is interesting."
Ling Tian, walking beside him, chuckled. "Welcome to Martial City—the first step into the real martial world. Here, strength determines everything. If you're weak, you'll be ignored. If you're strong, the world will bow before you."
Xian's eyes gleamed. "Then it looks like I'll be the one standing at the top soon enough."
Ling Tian shook his head. "You're confident, I'll give you that. But you're just getting started. If you want to survive here, you'll need to learn the basics—cultivation, techniques, and most importantly… finding your place in this world."
Xian raised an eyebrow. "And where do I start?"
Ling Tian pointed ahead. "The Martial Hall. It's where newcomers like you register and receive guidance. If you prove yourself, you might even gain access to rare techniques and powerful mentors."
Xian smirked. "Then what are we waiting for?"
The Martial Hall
The Martial Hall was an enormous structure with golden pillars and a giant dragon statue coiling around the entrance. The moment they stepped inside, Xian felt a powerful pressure in the air.
Hundreds of warriors filled the hall—some training, others discussing techniques. A large board displayed names, rankings, and achievements.
At the center of the hall stood a muscular old man with a long white beard. His presence alone sent chills down Xian's spine.
Ling Tian whispered, "That's Elder Bai, one of the strongest warriors in Martial City. He oversees new disciples."
Before Xian could respond, Elder Bai's sharp gaze turned toward them. His eyes locked onto Xian, and a small smirk formed on his lips.
"A new challenger, I see," Elder Bai said. His voice was deep and commanding. "You carry a strange aura. You are not from this world, are you?"
Xian grinned. "Does it matter?"
The old man chuckled. "Not at all. What matters… is whether you are worthy to step into the world of true warriors."
The First Test
Elder Bai pointed toward a massive stone pillar covered in ancient symbols.
"If you want to join the Martial Hall, you must take the Strength Test. Strike the pillar with your full power. The higher the number, the stronger your foundation."
Xian stepped forward. Several warriors nearby laughed.
"Heh, another arrogant newcomer."
"I bet he won't even reach 100 points."
"Watch him embarrass himself!"
Xian smirked. "Tch. Let's see who gets embarrassed."
He clenched his right fist, dark energy swirling around it. The air around him trembled as the power of darkness gathered.
Then—BOOM!
He punched the stone pillar. A massive shockwave shook the hall. Cracks spread across the floor, and the entire building trembled.
The numbers on the pillar skyrocketed.
100… 200… 500… 1000… 1500…
The warriors gasped in shock.
"IMPOSSIBLE!"
"Even core disciples barely reach 800!"
"Who the hell is this guy?!"
Elder Bai's eyes shone with interest. "Oh? A result of 1500 on your first test? Very well… I'll allow you to enter the Martial Hall. But remember—strength alone is not enough. True warriors must also master techniques, strategy, and the art of combat."
Xian grinned. "Heh. Then I'll just master everything."
Ling Tian chuckled. "Looks like you've made quite the entrance."
As whispers filled the hall, Xian smirked.
This was just the beginning.
The Absolute Overlord had taken his first step into the world of warriors.
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