Chapter 29: The Abyssal Evolution
Bai Yuan remained seated atop the jagged rock, his breathing slow and steady. The battle had left him drained, but the residual abyssal energy coursing through his veins was an opportunity he couldn't afford to waste. He had reached the peak of the Meridian Embodiment Realm. Now, he stood on the precipice of breaking into the Yin-Yang Symbiosis Realm.
His nanobots worked tirelessly, analyzing the abyssal Qi within his meridians. Their findings confirmed what he had suspected—the energy was too volatile to assimilate through conventional means. He needed to refine it using a specialized technique.
Closing his eyes, Bai Yuan recalled the knowledge that had surfaced in his mind after the monolith shattered. Among the fragmented memories, a technique stood out.
"Abyssal Yin-Yang Refinement."
This technique involved harmonizing abyssal energy with his natural Qi, tempering both his meridians and his physique. The process was excruciating and fraught with danger, but if successful, it would solidify his foundation in the next realm and grant him unparalleled control over Yin and Yang energies.
With determination, he activated the technique.
Instantly, the abyssal Qi surged, rushing through his meridians like molten lava. His body convulsed as waves of pain wracked his frame. The energy sought to devour him from within, but Bai Yuan endured. The nanobots acted swiftly, regulating the energy flow and preventing it from causing irreversible damage.
Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as his body underwent the transformation. His meridians expanded, reinforced by the tempered energy, while his bones and muscles absorbed the refined Qi. A powerful force gathered within him, signaling the breakthrough.
Suddenly, a violent shockwave erupted from his body. The jagged rock beneath him shattered, sending debris flying in all directions. Bai Yuan's eyes snapped open, glowing with a mysterious silver and gold hue. His aura had changed—it was deeper, more profound, as if he had merged with the abyss itself.
He had successfully stepped into the First Stage of the Yin-Yang Symbiosis Realm.
Ling Xi and Feng Yao, who had been observing from a safe distance, felt the oppressive force radiating from him. Ling Xi's expression wavered between awe and concern. "This… is not ordinary Qi. He's fused abyssal energy into his very foundation."
Feng Yao exhaled slowly, gripping his saber. "He's stronger than before. But at what cost?"
Bai Yuan stood, feeling the immense power coursing through his veins. A subtle smile formed on his lips. "I'm fine. Better than fine."
He clenched his fist, testing his newfound strength. The surrounding Qi bent to his will effortlessly. With this power, he could now face greater challenges ahead.
However, this was merely the beginning.
He had learned a new technique, but more lay ahead. The mysteries of the abyss had yet to be unraveled, and the trials awaiting him would demand even greater power.
And Bai Yuan would be ready.
Somewhere in the distance, unseen eyes observed his evolution. A shadowy figure stepped back into the void, whispering to itself.
"The Abyss has chosen its vessel."