Chapter 4: Stepping Into the World, A King's First Move
The towering trees of the Star Dou Forest loomed behind Feng Rui like silent guardians, their dense foliage whispering with the evening wind. For twelve years, this place had been his home, his training ground, and his sanctuary. He had fought, bled, and grown stronger within its depths. But now, it was time to step beyond its borders.
Standing at the edge of the forest, Feng Rui gazed at the vast world before him. His sharp golden eyes gleamed with a quiet determination. Yue Lan stood beside him, her silver-blue hair cascading down her back like liquid moonlight. Her golden pupils shimmered with emotion, a rare softness crossing her face.
"Are you sure about this?" she asked, her fingers entwining with his.
Feng Rui smirked. "We can't stay hidden forever. It's time to claim our place in this world."
Yue Lan nodded, understanding his ambition. She wasn't just his lover; she was his partner in every sense. The world outside was vast, dangerous, and filled with powers that would see them crushed if they weren't careful. But Feng Rui was not someone who would cower in fear—he would rise, conquer, and stand above all.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward.
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First Steps into the Outside World
Their journey took them through small villages and settlements. Feng Rui moved cautiously, concealing his spirit energy while observing how society functioned. He noted the stark contrast between the strong and the weak. Nobles walked with arrogance, their wealth and power ensuring their dominance, while commoners scraped by, struggling to survive under oppressive rule.
"Strength determines everything here," Feng Rui muttered one evening as he watched a noble's servant get beaten in the streets.
"Of course it does," Yue Lan said. "This world is no different from the forest. Only the strongest have the right to live freely."
Feng Rui smirked. "Then we will be the strongest."
They continued their journey, picking up bits of information along the way. The most interesting rumor they heard was about Blue Fang City, a place controlled by the Bai Clan. The city was infamous for its underground Spirit Fighting Arena, a lawless battlefield where rogue spirit masters fought for survival. It was a place where power reigned supreme, and wealth and influence were built upon blood.
"An arena where warriors struggle against each other for survival?" Feng Rui mused as he listened to an old merchant talk about it.
Yue Lan raised an eyebrow. "Are you thinking of fighting there?"
Feng Rui chuckled. "No. I'm thinking of owning it."
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Blue Fang City – A Den of Corruption
By the time they arrived at Blue Fang City, the sun had set, casting long shadows over the streets. The city was large, bustling with activity, but a sense of oppression hung in the air. Guards in heavy armor patrolled the streets, their gazes scanning the crowds with cold detachment. The symbol of the Bai Clan, a silver wolf insignia, was etched into their armor.
Feng Rui observed everything carefully. Corruption festered here. The common people walked with lowered heads, avoiding eye contact with the city's enforcers. Meanwhile, nobles and merchants flaunted their wealth, stepping over the poor as if they were nothing more than dirt.
"Typical," Feng Rui muttered. "This city is ripe for the taking."
Yue Lan gave a small smile. "And how do you plan to do that?"
"We start from the bottom. If we control the underground, we control the city's hidden power."
And so, their first stop was the underground Spirit Fighting Arena—The Pit.
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The Underground Arena – The First Seed of Power
The entrance to the underground arena was hidden behind a rundown tavern. The stench of alcohol and sweat filled the air as rough-looking men gathered, their voices low with murmured bets and deals.
Two large guards stood at the entrance, blocking the way. One of them, a bald man with a scar running down his cheek, stepped forward. "Newcomers?" he grunted.
Feng Rui tossed a small pouch of gold at the man. "We're here for the show."
The guard smirked, weighing the pouch before stepping aside. "Welcome to the Pit. Hope you enjoy the blood."
As they entered, the arena's atmosphere engulfed them. It was a massive underground colosseum, packed with spectators roaring in excitement. Torches lined the stone walls, casting flickering shadows over the bloodstained fighting pit below. Warriors fought like beasts, their fists and spirit abilities clashing in brutal combat.
The announcer's voice thundered through the arena.
"And now, our undefeated champion, Iron Claw Liu, will finish off this pathetic insect! Place your bets, ladies and gentlemen!"
Feng Rui's eyes focused on the young man in the arena. He was barely standing, his body covered in wounds, but his eyes still burned with defiance.
A sharp smirk formed on Feng Rui's lips. "Interesting."
Yue Lan glanced at him. "Thinking of recruiting him?"
"People like him are easy to shape," Feng Rui said. "Give them a reason to fight, and they'll follow you to the ends of the earth."
The fight ended with the young man lying unconscious in a pool of his own blood. The announcer laughed. "Looks like this one's finished! Drag him out!"
Two guards grabbed the unconscious fighter and threw him to the side like garbage.
Feng Rui didn't hesitate. He walked toward the barely breathing young man and crouched beside him. His voice was calm but filled with authority.
"You don't belong here."
The young man's eyes flickered open weakly.
Feng Rui continued, his golden gaze locking onto him. "Serve me, and I'll give you power. The kind that will make everyone who humiliated you bow at your feet."
The boy coughed, blood dripping from his lips. "Who… are you?"
Feng Rui smiled, his golden eyes gleaming with a king's confidence.
"Your future ruler."
The young man's lips trembled. For the first time in years, he saw a chance—a path forward.
He reached out, gripping Feng Rui's hand with all the strength he had left. "I… will follow you."
And just like that, the first seed of his empire was planted.
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What's Next?
Feng Rui begins gathering loyal subordinates, starting with Kai (the young fighter).
He challenges the corruption in Blue Fang City, eventually taking control of the underground arena.
He attracts powerful rogue spirit masters to his side, forming the first core of his army.
The Bai Clan notices him and sends assassins, leading to his first major battle.
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