Rebirth in Against the Gods with The Ultimate System

One week had passed, and they found themselves in a distant forest area, a hundred kilometers away from the central city of the floating island. As per Cang Yue's request, Yuyun had allowed her to return to her original, more mature body for a day. The sensation of being back in her seductive form after a week of being trapped as a child filled her with unparalleled joy. This transformation was necessary because today was the day Yun Che had promised to train her in the new sword and Haki arts for Retsu, Mio, and Kon.

Meanwhile, Lin Xin and Xueli had chosen to stay back at their home. Xueli, always full of energy, had expressed her desire to spend time playing with Kon. The events of the past week, particularly their encounter with the Moon Empress's tomb, were still fresh in their minds. Lin Xin was still coming to terms with the revelation that both she and her daughter possessed cultivator abilities.

Yun Che had explained to Lin Xin that Xueli wasn't yet ready for intense training. He emphasized that her body was not mature enough to support her powers, and therefore, she needed to wait for another ten years. For now, she was just an ordinary, cheerful girl named Huan Xueli. Lin Xin was relieved that her daughter could experience a normal childhood but couldn't help but smile at Xueli's occasional pouty requests to be taught how to fight. It seemed the young girl had taken Yun Che's advice about starting training at the age of twenty quite seriously, even if it led to occasional bouts of impatience.

Back on the training ground, Yun Che and his eager disciples were preparing for their first lesson. The girls had been excited since last week and had been pestering him incessantly to reveal his teachings, but Yun Che had managed to keep his lips sealed until now.

"Before we begin," Yun Che began, "I'd like to give each of you something that will aid us in our future adventures. I've noticed that Cang Yue has been using her old sword all this time. Retsu and Mio, on the other hand, lack personal weapons, relying solely on their spirit and Haki blood swords."

"So, in summary, I want each of you to have your own personal weapon. It's not fair that I have Yoru while you don't have one of your own." A playful grin danced across Yun Che's face as he continued, "Let's start with Retsu, as she holds the title of my first fiancée." Retsu couldn't hide her excitement, while Mio and Cang Yue couldn't help but cast her envious glances. They may all be his future wives, but for now, Retsu held the coveted position. A triumphant look adorned Retsu's face as she made her way toward Yun Che.

The atmosphere grew serious as Yun Che reached into his inventory and drew out a special katana. As the blade left its sheath, it emitted an overwhelming aura of killing intent and bloodlust that enveloped them all. Fortunately, Lin Xin and Xueli were at a safe distance, as the sheer intensity of this aura could easily affect anyone within its reach. All of his fiancées immediately went on high alert, their guards up, as the aura emanating from the sword was nearly as potent as Retsu's and Yun Che's combined.

The sword rested within a straight sheath, adorned with intricate details that caught the eye. At the kojiri end, a touch of gold glistened, complemented by a red and black bandage that wrapped around the sheath. A white wrapping, nestled between two golden sections, added an elegant contrast to the overall design. The hilt of the sword was equally striking, featuring three gold accents wrapped around a blood-red handle. The Tsuba, or cross guard, was crafted from gleaming gold, forming a rounded cross Pattee. None of Yun Che's girls were familiar with the sword's appearance, but for Yun Che himself, it was as familiar as the back of his hand.

The overwhelming killing intent emanating from the sword was almost too much to bear. Cang Yue, unable to withstand its thickness, hurriedly moved towards Mio, seeking protection from its oppressive aura. Mio, however, was taken aback by the sheer power exuding from the weapon in Yun Che's hand.

"Yuu-kun… This is…" Retsu's words trailed off as she found herself utterly captivated by the sword's mesmerizing beauty. While it might not rival the sheer potency of her Minazuki in bankai mode, it was precisely the kind of weapon she needed, apart from her Zanpakuto.

A sly grin curved Yun Che's lips as he revealed the sword's origin. "Heh… I forged this sword while exploring the forest a few days ago. It's a creation specifically for you, Retsu, given your affinity for thick bloodlust, second only to mine. I already possess numerous spirit swords, but this one is yours and yours alone."

Floating the sword toward Retsu, she reached out and grasped the hilt. The moment her fingers made contact, the bloodlust intensified, attempting to overwhelm and consume her. The atmosphere around her became charged with energy as the ground trembled, small rocks lifting from the earth, and cracks forming in the soil. Despite the overwhelming force threatening to engulf her, Retsu maintained a cheerful smile.

Her eyes gleamed with an eerie crimson light as the aura of the sword enveloped her completely. Yun Che, unmoved by the spectacle, and Mio, showing no signs of concern, watched with keen interest. Cang Yue, while displaying a hint of worry, couldn't help but be drawn into the unfolding scene.

It wouldn't be long before...

Swish!!!

Screech!!!

As the sword was gripped in Retsu's hands, screeching sounds echoed through the air, indicating that something extraordinary was unfolding. The bloodlust aura surrounding her seemed to revolt, attempting to break free, but its efforts were in vain. It was swiftly and forcefully drawn back into the sword, disappearing entirely. This time, the dominant aura of the weapon was forcibly contained within the blade, leaving Retsu with an innocent smile on her face.

The sight left everyone shocked, except for Yun Che, who had used a similar method during the tomb raid two weeks ago. They stared in awe as Retsu had managed to subdue the mighty sword with her aura alone, a feat that seemed almost impossible.

With the sword now in her possession, Retsu lifted it before hugging it affectionately. "Yuu-kun… I really love this sword. Can I keep it?"

"Of course, my dear. It's made especially for you," Yun Che replied, his smile reflecting the appropriateness of the gift.

"Muuu…. I love you, Yuu-kun… Thank you so much." She playfully hopped over to his side and kissed the corner of his lips. Yun Che responded with a passionate kiss of his own, complete with a playful exchange of tongues. Retsu was quite accustomed to his gentle kisses and often engaged in French kisses with him. She had lost count of how many times she had lost in a kiss battle or a tongue-wrestling match against him. Her face turned beet red once again, and it was almost unbelievable that the girl who had just tamed a powerful sword was now flustered because of a kiss.

Cang Yue and Mio could only watch in envy, as Retsu held the special place of being Yun Che's first love. Cang Yue tried to sneak a peek while closing her eyes with her hands, unable to bear the sight.

"Ehee…. I created this sword using a special orb I found in the Moon Empress's tomb. It once tried to consume me, but I was able to subdue it with my own intense bloodlust. So, I fashioned it into a unique sword just for you. I call it 'Kitetsu,' or 'Demon Splitter.' It's one of the twelve supreme-grade swords from where I come from, ranking equally with Yoru. This sword is also forged from indestructible Vibramantium steel." Yun Che explained the origin and significance of the sword he had given to Retsu.

Retsu drew the sword from its sheath, and she was instantly mesmerized. The blade had a graceful curve, and when she held it, she found it to be slightly longer than her short bankai sword and shorter than her asauchi. It felt perfect in her hands. The material was lightweight, and she could sense the power within it, as though she could cleave an entire mountain with ease. According to the system, the sword was classified as Legendary and Unique Sovereign level, a testament to its incredible potency. Retsu couldn't contain her excitement as she received such a powerful gift from him. While she had her blood sword as her primary weapon, now she possessed this formidable sword alongside her own Zanpakuto.

Yun Che kissed her once more before affectionately patting her head. With that, the blushing Retsu slowly moved away from him, fully aware that he would likely start teasing her again soon. After all, he was the only one who could make her feel this way.

"Now, a little gift for my second fiancée, Mio," Yun Che spoke with an affectionate tone that left Mio blushing. Being called his fiancée was a new and slightly embarrassing experience for her, but it was also a thrilling one. Her teasing had finally borne fruit, bringing her closer to him than she had ever imagined.

"Why not? You, Cang Yue, and Retsu are my special girls. My soon-to-be wives." Yun Che's voice was low and seductive as he closed the gap between them, his lips grazing her ear. "You better get used to it."

Mio's mind seemed to short-circuit at his proximity and words. A flush of embarrassment crept up her cheeks, and she felt like her brain was about to explode. Yun Che had a way of making her feel flustered like no one else could. As Cang Yue watched the scene unfold, she couldn't help but pout. It seemed that Mio had secured her position as Yun Che's second fiancée, given that she had confessed to him after Mio.

"I gathered enough materials for you and took one of the Moon Empress's swords to forge, just like mine and Retsu's," Yun Che explained as he retrieved another weapon from the system's inventory. The moment he revealed it, everyone was instantly captivated by the sword's hilt and sheath. The sheath was entirely red with white gold at the konjiri end, while the blade's hilt was made from white gold and wrapped in red.

"Oh my, what a beautiful sword! I wonder how it feels in my hands?" Mio exclaimed with excitement.

"Well, your sword doesn't have a specialty like absolute bloodlust, similar to Retsu's, but you can give it a try," Yun Che replied as he passed the sword to her. When Mio took hold of it, she was instantly struck by its weight and dominance. It might take some getting used to, but there was no denying the sheer power it possessed.

"The sword's name is Murakumogiri, and it incorporates the properties of Murakumogiri within a single blade. It's a potent weapon designed to support a spatial user like you."

Mio decided to test her new sword by drawing it from the sheath. The blade was straight with a slight curve at the end. The upper part of the blade was black, while the lower part shone brightly. Unlike Retsu's fiery pattern, Mio's Murakumogiri featured a wavy pattern on the upper black part of the blade. The sword was also made from Vibramantium steel.

The weight of the sword, a result of Yun Che's modification from the system's blueprint, made it significantly heavier than most swords. However, with Mio's immense strength, it posed no challenge for her. She felt as though she could easily tear space itself apart with this weapon.

Yun Che had spent 10,000 SP each to purchase the Kitetsu and Murakumogiri blueprints from the system due to their rarity. He then spent two hours forging them using his item creation feature, facing difficulties, particularly in finding suitable materials for the special katana. The biggest challenge had been dealing with the Orb of Bloodlust, a primary component of Kitetsu. Murakumogiri, on the other hand, had been crafted from one of Huan Xuyi's swords. He had used one of her blades to create Murakumogiri and had saved the other two swords for Cang Yue, intending to forge her swords using his own methods.

Mio's eyes darkened, and she began to tremble. Yun Che recognized this familiar reaction and braced himself. In an instant, she pounced on him, tears in her eyes as she rubbed her cheeks against his own. "Huaaa… Danna-sama… Thank you… thank you… this sword is the best gift ever."

Yun Che chuckled softly, holding her close. "My, my… You're quite the spoiled spider girl, aren't you?"

But he wasn't done yet. He suddenly turned serious and held Mio's chin gently with his fingers. "I haven't given you your first yet…"

Mio looked puzzled. "Eh? What first…" But before she could finish her sentence, he silenced her with a passionate kiss. Her eyes widened in surprise, not expecting Yun Che to kiss her like this. She had hoped for a kiss from him, but she wasn't prepared for it to be so intense. She wasn't mentally prepared at all. Mio felt as though her mouth was being devoured, her resistance crumbling in the face of the overwhelming pleasure. She fought back but ultimately gave in, savoring the sensation. Even the weight of Murakumogiri felt insignificant in comparison.

Her moans were audible, causing Cang Yue to cover her eyes with one hand, peeking through her fingers. She knew she might have to prepare for her turn after this. Retsu couldn't help but bite her finger in envy. Yun Che kissed her forcefully and then turned his attention back to Mio.

"Hmmmm…mpphh…" Mio moaned loudly, her mind in a whirlwind of pleasure. Yun Che finally released her lips, and they both gasped for air, but it was Mio whose face was now bright red. Yun Che gave her a cheeky grin before licking his lips sensually. "My, my… You're a natural kisser, Mio. Your lips taste like cherries…"

"Muuu… That's so mean of you, Danna-sama… Kissing me out of the blue like that…" Before she could react again, Yun Che pulled her into another quick kiss and whispered into her ear while giving her bottom a playful pat. "You better get used to it; there's more where that came from."

"Eeeep…" Mio's embarrassment reached new heights as she moved to Retsu's side, hugging her newly acquired sword. She couldn't help but wonder if the gift was the sword or the kiss. The cheeky and teasing girl had been reduced to this state. As for Retsu, she wore a teasing expression, turning toward the embarrassed Mio. "It felt good, didn't it? Soft and…"

"Muu… Retsu-chan… Stop it… It's embarrassing," Mio protested as Retsu began teasing her in return. The kiss had likely been Mio's first in thousands of years, given her long period of being sealed or existing during the era of the gods. During that time, she had no memories or sanity, but now, her mind could record memories, making her more human than ever.

As for Yun Che himself, the Gamer's Mind protected him, allowing him to maintain a relaxed expression. Without it, he might have been just as embarrassed. After all, he had taken both Retsu and Mio's first kisses, and it was only fair to move on to Mio and Cang Yue next.

"Well now… that's done for Mio and Retsu… I believe it's little Yue's turn, right?" Yun Che teased with a mischievous look in his eyes.

"Eeeep…" Cang Yue blushed and stepped forward, though she hadn't quite prepared herself yet. She closed her eyes, expecting a passionate kiss, but instead, he patted her cheeks and gave her a goofy smile. Her face turned even redder, and she muttered, "Muuu… stop teasing me…"

"Hai… hai… We can get to that later… I promised to teach you sword art, right? But before that, I've prepared a set of swords for you." Yun Che revealed that he had three swords ready for Cang Yue.

"A set of swords?" Cang Yue regained her composure, her curiosity piqued.

"Originally, these swords belonged to the Moon Empress, Huan Xuyi, but they were damaged beyond recognition. I managed to repair and reforge them into a set of swords tailor-made for you. She had three swords in total, and I gave one to Mio. The other two were remade into two different swords, and I created a special one for you as your primary weapon." Yun Che explained his choices, presenting the three swords to Cang Yue, who was once again captivated by their beauty. However, she was puzzled as to why she needed three instead of just one.

"But Yun Che… Why did you give me three swords? I only need one…" Cang Yue questioned.

"The sword art I'm going to teach you won't be limited to just one sword. You'll need all three to master it," Yun Che revealed.

"You mean…" Cang Yue's curiosity grew.

"Yes… I will teach you the legendary sword arts of a powerful swordsman who once rivaled Mihawk. You'll learn the 'One Sword Sword Style,' 'Two Sword Style,' and finally, the 'Three Sword Style,'" Yun Che unveiled his ambitious plan.

"Three sword style?!" Cang Yue exclaimed in shock.

"Yes, or Santoryu in our language," Yun Che clarified.

"But… but… I can understand using one or two swords, but three swords… how would I even use the third one?" Cang Yue was perplexed.

"Remember the bamboo I had you bite last week? You adapted to it quite easily. I think you already have an idea," Yun Che hinted.

Cang Yue pondered for a moment before realization dawned on her, and her eyes widened. "I have to bite it?!"

"Yup… That's the essence of Santoryu. You use your mouth to hold the third sword," Yun Che confirmed. He had purposefully instructed her to hold the bamboo in her mouth as part of her training.

"But… I'll be ridiculed by the whole world…" Cang Yue's face turned bright red as she imagined the insults and mockery she might face for using her mouth to hold a sword. Some would accuse her of biting off more than she could chew or seeking unnecessary attention. However, Yun Che wore a determined expression. He intended to make her prove that the art was not only usable but also formidable. To achieve that, she needed to embrace the style fully.

"Yes… You might face ridicule, but when you showcase the true power of Santoryu to the world, you'll silence those mockers. Have faith, little Yue. I wouldn't teach you and provide you with these swords if I intended to embarrass you," Yun Che reassured her, hoping she would accept the art and its challenges.

Yun Che was determined to ensure that Cang Yue wouldn't embarrass herself, and he believed in her abilities to master the unique three-sword style. It was an opportunity for her to prove herself, and she accepted the challenge wholeheartedly.

"You trust me with your life, and I'll do my best to honor that trust. Let's get acquainted with all of my new swords from now on," Cang Yue said with a sense of determination.

Yun Che raised one of the swords before her, and she carefully examined her new weapon. Each of the three blades possessed its own unique and exquisite beauty, and she couldn't have imagined using all of them together in a single battle. Yun Che then floated one of the swords before her.

The first sword had a pure-white hilt with a circular handguard. Its sheath was painted white, and the hardening line was suguha, a straight blade style. The sheath exuded a sense of peaceful white harmony, with a modest kojiri at the end.

As Cang Yue held the sword in her hands, she noticed it was lighter than her previous one, and a feeling of tranquility washed over her. She drew the sword from its sheath, her eyes fixated on the straight blade. It shared similarities with Retsu's Kitetsu and Mio's Murakumogiri, as it was also a straight blade katana. The blade's edge was divided equally, with the inner part deep black and the outer part shining white. The blade had a slight curvature toward the end, terminating in a sharp tip that looked capable of cutting through any foe. The hilt featured a traditional yet attractive pure-white ito wrapped around grey wrappings, creating a diamond-shaped pattern.

Mesmerized by the sword's beauty, Cang Yue listened attentively as Yun Che explained, "This is your primary sword, which I crafted myself without using Xuyi's original sword as its material. In your language, this sword is the Wado Ichimonji, or The Path to Harmony. It's one of the 21 great-grade swords, slightly lower in grade than mine, Mio's, and Retsu's Supreme Grade swords, but still quite powerful. This sword will be your primary weapon for the One Sword Style."

Cang Yue felt deeply honored to be entrusted with three of the 21 great-grade swords by Yun Che. While she couldn't wield Supreme Grade Swords like Yoru, Kitetsu, and Murakumogiri, she understood the immense power that the wielders of those swords possessed. She was grateful for Yun Che's trust and guidance, as he had reassured her that the swords didn't determine a user's power; it was their skill and how they wielded them. She recalled his words from a past battle in the arena, "A sword without strength is just an iron bar." Determinedly nodding her head, she vowed to utilize these swords to their fullest potential.

"This sword is specially tailored for you, as it reflects your nature not towards killing, but towards forging a path of peace and harmony as an empress. You'll need it on your journey," Yun Che said, patting her head gently. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Cang Yue hugged the sword tightly, tears welling up in her eyes. She had never received such a powerful and meaningful gift, and Yun Che had given it to her as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

"Yun Che… Thank you… Thank you so much…" Cang Yue whispered emotionally.

The bond between them deepened, and Cang Yue was more determined than ever to master the sword arts and make her beloved proud.

Yun Che comforted Cang Yue, assuring her that there were more gifts awaiting her. He raised another sword, a pitch-black one, similar in style to Yoru but with a distinctive red curve pattern on the blade. The sheath was traditional black adorned with dark red circles split into even thirds.

As Cang Yue observed the blade, she could see the black blade with a distinct reddish-purple reverse wave hardening line of a Kanemoto style. Its handguard was dark gold with flower-like edges, and there were no accessories on the hilt, which was wrapped in black silk. Both the end cap of the sword's hilt and the end cap of the sheath were golden.

Yun Che revealed, "Your secondary sword is a black blade like Yoru, and this blade is the same rank as Wado Ichimonji but carries a dark personality. This one is forged from Xuyi's other sword. You can call it… Shusui or Autumn Rain." He drew the sword from its sheath and presented it to Cang Yue.

Cang Yue marveled at the sword and felt its weight; it was heavier than her original sword but still manageable. Yun Che explained, "Shusui is a completely dark blade, so you can use your Busoshoku Haki without compromising it. You'll need Shusui for the two-sword styles later."

Tears welled up in Cang Yue's eyes as she held both swords together. She had come a long way from being a weak princess to becoming the successor to the Moon Empress, wielding three powerful great-grade swords, and learning the advanced sword style unique to this world. She couldn't believe how much her life had changed in such a short time. Yun Che hugged her, offering comfort and reassurance. Her humility and gratitude were qualities he cherished.

After calming her down, Yun Che presented her with the final sword, Cang Yue's tertiary blade. It was technically Shusui's twin, named Shisui or Water Stopper. It was another of the 21 Great Grade swords, and while it was technically a twin to Shusui, it appeared quite different. Shisui had a shining white blade compared to Shusui's pitch-black one, and the hilt design was the same as Shusui, with dark golden flower-like edges on the hilt. The handle was wrapped with white silk, and the Tsuba and Konjiri end cap were golden. The sword's sheath was white, with dark black circles split into even thirds.

Yun Che explained that Shisui was the opposite of Shusui, representing a perfect Yin and Yang balance. With Wado Ichimonji as the center, the three swords formed a harmonious trio. Cang Yue's eyes widened as she beheld Shisui, and she marveled at the balance and symbolism within her three new swords.

With these three great-grade swords in her possession, Cang Yue's destiny was undoubtedly set to reshape the world of swordsmanship when she mastered the advanced sword style Yun Che had planned to teach her.

"Now, I will give you all the formulas for the Three Sword Style, and I'll give you three days to practice the One Sword Style first. Don't bite off more than you can chew. Learn it bit by bit, starting with Wado Ichimonji as your primary sword. Since you're used to using one sword, this style should come relatively easily. After that, three days from now, I will introduce you to the Two Sword Style, which requires balanced strength in both hands before using it properly. Finally, we'll delve into the Three Sword Style. With the help of the Hyperbolic Moon World, I'm confident you'll master the fundamentals within ten days. Afterward, all of us will focus on honing our sword skills," Yun Che explained as he transferred the fundamental sword-style techniques directly into Cang Yue's mind.

In her mind's eye, Cang Yue could see the original user of these techniques, wielding his sword with incredible skill and precision as he faced formidable opponents. The glimpses of these techniques were brief, and she realized she might need the Hyperbolic Moon World to review and fully understand them later. She also couldn't help but wonder about the identity of the original user and how these techniques came into Yun Che's possession.

"Yun Che, these gifts are too valuable to me. You've not only given me a sword but also the knowledge and skill to wield it. I fell in love with you because of your kindness and your selflessness," Cang Yue expressed her gratitude.

Yun Che patted her head and reassured her, "Don't worry about it. You wanted to stand beside us, and you've earned this opportunity. Now, it's up to you to make the most of it. Do your best to master these gifts."

But Yun Che had one more lesson to impart. He explained, "In mastering sword art, one must also grasp the basics of attacking, which involve keeping your opponent off guard." Without any warning, he kissed Cang Yue, catching her completely off guard. Unlike the passionate kiss he had shared with Mio earlier, this kiss was gentle yet challenging. Cang Yue's face turned as red as a ripe tomato as it was her first kiss with Yun Che. Her initial instinct was to deepen the kiss, but she was holding her new swords, leaving her with no choice but to endure. The kiss started gently but gradually grew more intense as Cang Yue opened her mouth slightly, allowing Yun Che to deepen the kiss and explore the inside of her mouth. To her dismay, she found herself unable to resist his advances, and she surrendered to the overwhelming pleasure.

The passionate kiss lasted for a few moments before Yun Che reluctantly pulled away, allowing Cang Yue to catch her breath. She gasped for air and whispered, "Yun Che, please... let me breathe."

However, before she could fully recover, he pulled her into another deep and passionate make-out session. Cang Yue was unprepared for such intensity, and as a novice kisser, the sensations overwhelmed her. Her face flushed even deeper as she moaned softly, succumbing to the overwhelming pleasure.

And then, with a metaphorical "BOOM," Cang Yue's head figuratively exploded with embarrassment, and she lost consciousness. Yun Che realized what had happened and gently laid her down on the grass, placing her new swords beside her.

Mio and Retsu watched with envy in their eyes as they spoke up. Mio protested, "Mouuuu, Danna-sama, no fair! You gave us short kisses and even teased her like that."

Retsu added, "Yuu-kun, you must be fair to all of us."

Yun Che chuckled at their demands. "Hai...hai... we can get to that later. Let's start our..."

However, before he could finish his sentence, Mio and Retsu exchanged glances, a mischievous look in their eyes, and without warning, they both tackled him to the ground with surprising force.

"Guarrkkk!!!" Yun Che exclaimed as he found himself pinned by the two eager women. Their flushed faces indicated that they had something else in mind.

"Yuu-kun, it's your fault for making us like this….." Retsu replied, her breath ragged from excitement.

"Danna-sama…. I must get you back for kissing me just now…." Mio added, her tone equally charged.

"Ehhh… what?... what the hell? I must get away…" Yun Che attempted to escape, but it was already too late. Mio had woven a web around the area, and he knew that once ensnared, no one could escape her intricate traps.

"You two…let's talk about this….Your pranks have gone too far…." He tried to reason with them, but both girls slowly advanced toward him, their eyes filled with affection and their cheeks blushing intensely. It seemed like their playful nature had given way to something more passionate.

"Yuuu-kun… Danna-sama…." Both girls continued to close in on him, and he could see the unmistakable look of infatuation in their eyes. It was as if a switch had been flipped, and now they were determined to express their affection.

Realizing there was no way out of the web zone, Yun Che turned to his only hope for salvation, Jasmine. "Jasmine…. A little help? Please?"

However, Jasmine's response was far from helpful. "It's your own damn fault…deal with it yourself…" She abruptly cut the link with him, leaving him to face the impending ordeal alone.

"System…."

--------------------------

[Ding…. Lust Protection Protocol Initiated but there's no protocol against kisses, so you're on your own.]

[Ding…. Current Objective: Survive]

--------------------------

"Yuu-kun….Danna-sama… Be a good boy and accept our love!" Before he could react, Yun Che was tackled to the ground and subjected to an hour-long make-out session, with kisses raining down on his face. The passion between the three of them intensified, and there was no escaping their affections. Yun Che had created this situation, and now he had to accept the consequences of his actions.

...….

Two hours had passed since the passionate encounter between Yun Che, Mio, and Retsu.

A streak of light suddenly pierced the training zone, revealing Kon's arrival. He had been helping Lin Xin and Xueli prepare lunch, and now that he could join in to gain the new Haki ability, he seemed excited. "Finally, Kon-sama can join you guys."

As Kon entered the training area, his eyes fell upon Retsu and Mio, who were now peacefully napping in loose clothing that hinted at their cleavage. Both wore contented smiles and clung tightly to Yun Che as if they never intended to let go. What puzzled Kon even more was the presence of strong black spider webs surrounding the area. What were they trapping in here? Meanwhile, Yun Che's eyes remained closed, but his face, neck, and chest bore evidence of numerous red lipstick marks.

Yun Che couldn't help but feel relieved about one thing – he hadn't been entirely overwhelmed by them. Thankfully, his clothes remained intact, and the Gamer's Mind had helped keep their enthusiasm in check. He could have easily escaped, but that would have left them disappointed later. He had allowed this situation to happen just this once as a service to his companions. Next time, he would remember to give a smaller reward.

Kon appeared beside him, sporting a jealous expression, and playfully kicked Yun Che's head with his plushy leg. "Oi, lucky bastard….You good?"

Yun Che replied half-heartedly, "No…. Yes… What do you think?"

Kon sighed, fully aware of the situation, and voiced his envy, "It must be nice having these two hugging you like that and possibly showering you with kisses. Man, I am jealous of you."

Yun Che retorted, "Dude….don't be. I must never underestimate women in need. Especially when it's related to those needs… I just got 'ara-ara'ed by them."

It took Kon a moment to process Yun Che's words, but when he did, his face turned red, and he exclaimed, "Don't tell me they… took advantage of you? Lucky bastard!!!!"

Yun Che's expression remained impassive as he spoke, "No, it hasn't happened... yet... but they did take something else..."

Kon was puzzled and asked, "That is…?"

Yun Che pointed towards his mildly traumatized face and replied, "My mouth…. If my mouth had a virginity for every time they used their tongue…. I would have lost it a thousand times over. I felt my mouth going numb as they shoved their tongues in. Imagine enduring it for an hour. Well, I'm the one who got them all worked up just now… So I have to suck it up and take it like a man. But I won't lie; it did feel good."

Kon couldn't believe what he was hearing. "What….the… That's just a cheap lie."

Yun Che responded with a serious tone while gazing up at the sky, "You heard me, man…"

"My condolences then…." Kon muttered as he settled down beside Yun Che's head.

Suddenly, Yun Che felt Mio's embrace tighten, and she murmured affectionately in her sleep. "Danna-sama…. I like and love you…."

Not long after, Retsu, also in the midst of a nap, chimed in with her own request. "Yuu-kun… please give me more kisses from now on…."

Yun Che couldn't help but rub their heads affectionately and sigh. These two certainly were a handful. Despite everything, he realized he wouldn't mind the occasional affectionate moments and kisses from them. However, he hoped they could be a bit more discreet about it in the future. He couldn't help but wonder what would happen if Nemu, the innocent and quiet member of their group in the future, ever experienced such attention. It was clear that underestimating the desires of these two would be a grave mistake.

-------------------

*BONK

"And that's for pushing me down and raping my mouth." He gave both of them a light karate chop on their heads for their misbehaviour.

"Ow…..We're sowwy…," both girls mumbled in unison. But their expressions told a different story. There was a mischievous glint in their eyes, and they seemed far from genuinely remorseful.

Yun Che sighed inwardly, trying to piece together the puzzle. Was it their deep affection for him that clouded their judgment? Did their feelings override the normally impeccable Gamer's Mind they both possessed? Or could it be that the system responsible for their abilities had temporarily glitched due to the physical contact they initiated?

Yun Che, though firm with his discipline, couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt as he looked at Mio and Retsu, their puppy-dog eyes pleading with him. They were his cherished companions, after all, and he did enjoy the warmth of their presence during the night. But rules were rules, even in their unique dynamic.

As they knelt before him, their apologies falling on his ears, he sighed deeply. "You could have just waited until night or asked me normally," he reiterated. "You know I would give it to you without hesitation. But rules are rules. No cuddling and kisses for a week."

Their shocked and crestfallen expressions tugged at his heartstrings. Mio's voice quivered with anxiety as she spoke, "EHHH??!?! That's mean… you don't mean it, right? Danna-sama…" The thought of not having him by their side at night, their source of comfort and security, was almost unbearable.

"Please…Yuu-kun…. You know I can't sleep at all without you by my side… Please…. We're sorry…." Retsu's plea was equally heartfelt, and she couldn't fathom what had come over her earlier, pushing the boundaries of their intimacy.

Yun Che remained resolute. "Don't 'ehhh' me…..You should have thought about that before you two attacked me just now. You can sleep without me for a week, right?"

"We can't….please…" Both Mio and Retsu employed the puppy eye technique, their eyes wide and sorrowful. Yun Che had to steel himself against their charms; they deserved this punishment, even if it pained him to see them like this.

"I don't see that's my problem…." Yun Che's voice was stern, but his resolve was wavering.

"Muuu…" Both Mio and Retsu bowed their heads, accepting their fate. They knew they were testing the limits, and it was only fair that they faced consequences.

"Ehem…. Anyway….. It's about time we started our haki training again. We missed two hours because of you two," Yun Che redirected their attention to their martial training. "I see Cang Yue has already started her training." He glanced over at Cang Yue, who was now in the state of entering her Moon World to practice her new sword techniques.

"Hai.." Both Mio and Retsu replied with less enthusiasm, their spirits dampened by the loss of their privileges. They looked like two forlorn souls, their heads hanging low.

Seeing their dejected state, Yun Che decided to give them a glimmer of hope. "Do this right….and I might return your cuddling freedom."

"Hai!" Suddenly, both girls jolted from their depression, their spirits rekindled by the possibility of redemption. Yun Che couldn't help but smile; it seemed like his unconventional approach to discipline was effective in keeping them engaged and motivated.

Kon scratched his head, a bemused expression on his face. "Man…these girls love you, huh?" he remarked, sweatdropping.

Yun Che chuckled, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, they certainly do... maybe a little too much. But, that's not why I gathered you all here today."

He cleared his throat, his tone turning more serious. "I called all of you today because the system's compilation of another haki technique is complete. I've decided to teach you girls and you too, Kon, a new haki technique."

He continued, "I've already taught you the three main haki types—Observation, Armament, and Conqueror—to all of you, including Cang Yue and Little Fairy. I even introduced you to a powerful haki eye technique. But today, we'll delve into a different aspect of haki—bending techniques."

"Bendings?" All three of them raised their eyebrows in curiosity.

Yun Che nodded and began to explain, "Bendings are nature-based techniques that utilize movement to manipulate the elements around you. Unlike traditional elemental cultivation techniques, you'll send your energy through your haki into the element itself, giving you the ability to control it. You can also manipulate the element, splitting it into multiple techniques simultaneously. For instance, if you fire a projectile at an enemy and miss, instead of creating a new attack, you can repurpose that missed shot into a fire wave or spear, or infuse it with more energy to turn it into a firebomb. The possibilities are endless; your only limitation is your creativity. You won't even need to name your techniques; you can shape them as you wish."

Excitement lit up the faces of the girls and Kon as they absorbed the information. Mio couldn't contain her enthusiasm. "How do we learn it, Yuu-kun?"

"After studying the compendium all night, I've realized that I can only cultivate fire bending since I possess the fire seed," Yun Che explained. "There are seven key elements in bending in this world—Fire, Water, Earth, and Air, along with the additional elements of Lightning, Light, and Dark. Originally, bending required natural elemental energy or chakra for cultivation, but haki can bypass that requirement, converting your profound energy or reiatsu into elemental energy. It's the same principle I taught you to bring your energy into the world. The system will perform energy bending inside you to awaken your bending abilities. However, this means I can only teach fire bending."

He shrugged, a hint of regret in his voice. "Unfortunately, I can only cultivate one element. But for you girls and Kon, the system will determine which bending suits you best. Let's start with Retsu."

Yun Che approached Retsu and pressed his thumb against her forehead. The system immediately initiated a scan based on her cultivated energy.

--------------------

[Ding….. Bending energy awakened.]

[Compatibility between Retsu's Yin and Yang natured body acquired.]

[Suitable cultivation element selected… Fire Bending and Water Bending.]

[Uploading cultivation methods]

--------------------

As Yun Che pressed his thumb against Retsu's forehead, her eyes closed, and a rush of sensations overwhelmed her. It was as if a floodgate had opened within her mind, inundating her with images of fire-bending and water-bending techniques. She knew that understanding these techniques would take time, but the sheer potential they offered was exhilarating. Combining them with her Kitetsu skills, Retsu couldn't help but imagine the unstoppable fighting style she could develop.

When Yun Che finished the process, Retsu remained in a meditative state. The system had uploaded a plethora of moves into her mind, and she was diligently attempting to grasp and internalize them all. Inside her head, a whirlwind of knowledge churned—blue fire, Flaming Bombs, Fire Spears, Fire Tornadoes, and even various derivations of fire techniques. She wasn't limited to just fire; water-bending styles had also been imprinted into her consciousness. But before she could truly master these techniques, she needed to comprehend the fundamental principles of fire and water manipulation. It was a vast ocean of knowledge she was eager to explore, even if it would take time to digest it all.

Yun Che repeated the process with Mio, and as he had predicted, the system's notification confirmed her compatibility with bending techniques. However, what surprised him was the depth of Mio's hidden potential.

----------------------------

[Ding… Bending energy awakened.]

[Compatibility acquired.]

[Suitable cultivation element selected.]

[Darkness Bending and Air Bending.]

[New element detected - Spatial Bending]

----------------------------

Yun Che raised an eyebrow in genuine surprise. "Air bending? Who knew…," he muttered, clearly taken aback by Mio's unexpected affinity for air bending techniques. He decided to hold off on introducing Darkness Bending to her, knowing the prevailing sentiments of the Profound Sky Continent regarding darkness masters. Their unique abilities would undoubtedly attract unwanted attention, much like his own experiences when he had the darkness seed.

As Mio meditated, Yun Che observed her silently. The influx of information she needed to process was substantial, and he couldn't help but marvel at the immense potential she held within her.

With Mio's training complete, it was now Kon's turn.

"Yosh, let's see what Kon-sama can do…," Kon declared with a smug grin, his impatience barely contained.

Yun Che couldn't help but chuckle. "Yeah, yeah, hold your horses… I'm getting there." He gently pressed his thumb against Kon's plushy forehead, initiating the upload of information.

The revelation of Kon's latent abilities held an air of excitement, and Yun Che couldn't help but wonder what kind of bending techniques Kon would manifest.

---------------

[Ding….. Bending Energy awakened.

[Compatibility acquired]

[Suitable Cultivation element received]

[Fire bending and Earth Bending]

---------------

As Yun Che observed Kon, who had revealed his earth-bending abilities, he couldn't help but marvel at the uniqueness of their group. Kon, the plushy earth bender, added an unexpected twist to their abilities. Yun Che couldn't help but muse, "*Whistle….. Earth Bending…. It looks like Kon might be able to bend metal in the future. If this world had any…." It was a fascinating thought; Kon, with his connection to the earth element, might possess the potential to manipulate even metal, if such a resource existed in their world.

With Kon's bending abilities unveiled, Yun Che felt a sense of completeness in his group. He had initially thought Retsu might end up with two bending abilities, but he decided that she should focus on Waterbending, while Mio could concentrate on Airbending. As for Kon, the prospect of becoming a formidable earthbender lay in his future.

Yun Che couldn't help but sigh internally at the thought of mastering Earthbending. It seemed that according to the novel's information, the Earth seed was notoriously elusive, hidden away in the condemned Void of Nothingness the Realm of the Gods. Yun Che knew that accessing such a place would be no small feat, and the search for the Earth seed would have to wait.

Resolving to prioritize their current bending abilities, Yun Che planned for Retsu to excel in Waterbending, Mio in Airbending, and Kon in Earthbending. The pursuit of their second bending element would come later.

Cang Yue, on the other hand, would concentrate solely on Santoryu techniques. Yun Che understood the importance of specialization, especially with the tournament fast approaching. Even with the system's assistance, mastering Santoryu would be a challenging task, and Cang Yue had limited time. However, it was a challenge she needed to overcome, and it would undoubtedly give her the edge she required.

Settling down to watch his fiancees and plushy friend in their meditative stances, Yun Che spoke with a hint of determination in his voice, "This might take a while. I might brush up on Firebending for now."

.........

In the surreal expanse of Cang Yue's Hyperbolic Moon World, a sudden burst of light broke the tranquil atmosphere, drawing all attention, or what could pass for attention in this dreamlike realm, towards it. From within the dazzling flashes of light emerged a young woman, none other than Yun Che's third fiancée, Cang Yue.

Floating aimlessly for a moment, her dreamy gaze gradually shifted inward as she entered her own inner world.

Then, it happened.

Her porcelain face flushed an enchanting shade of crimson, and imaginary steam seemed to waft from her two adorable ears. She couldn't help but clasp her head in shock, her voice betraying a mix of emotions. "Kyaa! Why in the world did he have to do that?! It was my first kiss. It wasn't exactly how I imagined, but it was sweet and a little forceful. Yun Che, you jerk, meanie, bully, rapist! If you want to kiss me like that, tell me next time!! Muuu, why am I getting worked up over this?!''

In this inner world, Yuyun, her only friend and cultivation master, observed Cang Yue's inner turmoil with a mix of exasperation and amusement. She contemplated whether to reprimand the girl or simply give her a bonk on the head. It seemed that Cang Yue had inherited a certain feistiness from her ancestor, which ran deep within her bloodline. Deciding on her course of action, Yuyun suddenly materialized beside Cang Yue, delivering a swift bonk to her head that snapped her out of her love-stricken reverie.

"Alright, enough with your daydreaming. We've got work to do," Yuyun declared.

"Ow… That was mean, Yuyun," Cang Yue protested, rubbing her head where she'd been bonked.

"If I hadn't done that, you'd probably still be lost in that 'kissy-kissy' fantasy of yours," Yuyun retorted, flashing a mischievous grin at her disciple.

"I was not!!!" Cang Yue vehemently denied, her face aflame with embarrassment.

Yuyun couldn't help but tease her further. "Yes… you were. If you want, I can create a dummy version of that Yun boy here so you can practice your kissing skills."

Cang Yue's eyes widened, and she vehemently refused, "No… it's not the same at all." The mere thought of practicing with a doll was beyond mortifying, especially if her sisters or fiancées were to discover her doing so. She'd be labeled a weirdo for sure.

Yuyun chuckled softly. "Ohhh? How do you know? Don't tell me you've tried it before?" She feigned shock, raising an eyebrow.

"No, I didn't! Stop teasing me…muuuu…" Cang Yue pouted, feeling utterly embarrassed.

"Hahaha…. I'm sorry, I'm sorry. It's been a while since I teased you like this. Anyway, did you learn something new from that Yun boy?" Yuyun inquired, affectionately petting her disciple's head. Cang Yue nodded, her face still a shade of crimson, and proceeded to share everything she'd learned from Yun Che. Yuyun extracted the information, displaying it in her inner world on multiple screens for Cang Yue to examine closely.

Within Cang Yue's surreal Hyperbolic Moon World, she found herself in the presence of the legendary swordsman who had crafted the three-sword technique. This was a momentous occasion, as she could finally meet the man who had left such an indelible mark on the world of swordsmanship. It was a moment that piqued not only her curiosity but also that of her inner-world friend and mentor, Yuyun.

To satiate their curiosity, Yuyun used her Moon Energy to construct a dummy that closely resembled the renowned swordsman. The figure displayed all the vital information about this enigmatic master, allowing Cang Yue and Yuyun to delve deeper into his legacy.

Inside the ethereal domain of Cang Yue's Hyperbolic Moon World, both she and Yuyun, her cultivation master, prepared to delve into a history that seemed far removed from their reality. The construct they now beheld was a dummy formed from pure Moon Energy, bearing the likeness of a legendary swordsman. The man sported vibrant green hair, a fierce countenance with one blind eye marred by a scar, and wore a traditional green kimono. His three swords, hanging by his side, drew immediate attention, especially since two of them bore uncanny resemblances to the ones Yun Che had gifted to Cang Yue.

"Roronoa Zoro…" Cang Yue murmured with awe. The tales spoke of a swordsman whose prowess with blades was unmatched, one who had even rivaled the great Dracule Mihawk. The fact that she had inherited techniques crafted by such a legend left her awestruck.

Yuyun's voice quivered with excitement, "Yue'er, look at these techniques! He wasn't just a swordsman; he was a force of nature. The way he melded the one and two-sword styles is masterful. And the three-sword style? It was a tribute, a promise to a fallen friend. And now, you've become the bearer of his legacy."

Cang Yue felt a profound sense of connection as she listened. The intricate intertwining of skills, emotions, and history left her overwhelmed. Yuyun's keen eye caught further details, "Those swords...they're eerily similar to Master's old weapons, reimagined in the form of Zoro's blades. Truly, Yun Che has entrusted you with treasures of unparalleled value."

Cang Yue couldn't help but feel a blend of awe, gratitude, and anticipation. The depth of these techniques was vast, and mastering them would undoubtedly be an uphill task. However, with Yuyun's guidance, she believed in her ability to deconstruct, understand, and eventually master the heart of these moves.

Yuyun's infectious enthusiasm rang clear, "Let's break this down, starting with the basics. Once you've got a handle on the foundational moves, we'll progressively work through the advanced techniques. And remember, you're merging these with the moon sword techniques from Huan Xuyi's lineage. The potential is boundless!"

Lost in thought, Cang Yue whispered more to herself than anyone else, "I need to do this. For Yun Che, for all the faith he's shown in me, and for myself." With determination gleaming in her eyes, she began her journey through the intricate dance of blades, starting with the single sword style.

With a sense of resignation, Cang Yue addressed her inner-world companions. "I apologize, everyone. It seems I'll be unconscious again for a while." The path to mastering the Green Swordsman's techniques would be arduous, but she was determined to embark on this formidable endeavor.

.....................

Within the underground recesses of the Huan Manor, a mysterious figure made its way towards the entrance leading to the catacombs, a place shrouded in secrecy for many years. This part of the estate was considered the most closely guarded, protected by the formidable might of the Huan Family. Even family members themselves were not allowed unrestricted access to these cryptic depths. Yet, as the figure moved past the guards stationed there, they didn't even acknowledge its presence. A few words exchanged, and the guards allowed the figure to proceed without question.

The air in the catacombs was thick with the scent of dust and death, but the figure moved through it without hesitation or fear. Foul as it was, the atmosphere did nothing to deter her.

The catacombs were a resting place for the previous generations of the Huan Family. Here, clan masters, ancient bloodlines, and influential figures found their final repose. Yet, the figure had not come for the deceased; her purpose lay elsewhere. She made her way to a small, weathered pagoda with an aged stone doorway. Pushing against it with all her might, the entrance swung open to reveal an ancient tomb hidden within. The tomb appeared long-forgotten, its contents shrouded in the obscurity of ages past.

With determination in her eyes, the figure lowered the hood of her robe, unveiling a face that harbored deep resentment—a face that had suffered humiliation at the hands of those she now sought to confront. It was none other than Huan Ling, the individual who despised Xueli and her mother, Lin Xin, with a passion. Her hatred was most fervent towards Yun Che and his companions.

Clutched in her hand, she held an ancient-looking scroll obtained from the Huan Manor's archives. Her reason for venturing into this tomb was to uncover the mystery behind the failure of the Huan Family's Wrath technique. This formidable ability, meant to enforce their dominance, had proved ineffective against certain individuals: Xueli, Lin Xin, Yun Che, Mio, Retsu, and Cang Yue. After its initial failure, she had attempted to use the Wrath on her subordinates and enslaved individuals, with varying results. The power to kill them was certainly within her grasp, but it became evident that the Wrath's effectiveness had dwindled when she tried to use it for the second time outside that restaurant.

For reasons unknown, the Wrath no longer held sway over these specific individuals. If this were to become widely known, it would undermine the Huan Family's authority within the realm. Furthermore, if that infuriating brat continued to protect them, she wouldn't be able to harm Lin Xin and Xueli, who had earned her wrath.

As the clan mistress, Huan Ling possessed the authority to access the one place even the majority of the Huan Family members were forbidden to enter—the catacombs, which concealed a realm accessible only through the tomb of the Huan Family's first sect master. Utilizing an heirloom passed down through generations of her lineage, she activated its power to gain entry.

Within the tomb, she navigated the dark passageway, carrying only a torch to light her way. Her goal was to uncover why the Wrath's power had faltered and, worse yet, failed against these individuals. Eventually, she reached an area hidden behind the coffin of the first clan master, guided by an old scroll. She had come for what lay beyond—a revelation that would hopefully shed light on their predicament.

Her fingers brushed against an ancient Huan Family crest engraved on the wall. "According to the heirloom scroll, I must press it for a few seconds…" she muttered to herself. As she followed the instructions from the scroll, the crest suddenly came to life, emitting a radiant glow before causing the coffin to shift aside. To her astonishment, she discovered a concealed passageway beneath it that had remained hidden all these years.

With a torch in hand, Huan Ling descended the ancient flight of stairs. Her thoughts dwelled on the numerous attempts to exact revenge against those who had wronged her. She couldn't help but wonder if humans were capable of achieving the kind of strength displayed by her adversaries. Her men had undergone rigorous martial arts training, yet they had been effortlessly defeated with single strikes. The most humiliating moment had been when a mere ladle spoon and frying pan had been used to subdue her elite guards—a fact that still rankled her to her core.

Huan Ling had been determined to employ the power of the Wrath to exact her revenge, but it had ceased responding to her commands. She spent days delving into the Huan Family's archives, desperate to uncover the source of the Wrath's fading potency.

As she descended deeper into the underground labyrinth, the stairs led her to an unfamiliar chamber. At its center stood a solitary pedestal upon a circular platform, a sight that would have struck familiarity with Yun Che, reminiscent of the Moon Empress's tomb and the sanctuary. The chamber's walls were adorned with enigmatic glowing markings, and the circular platform hinted at untold secrets. Guided by the instructions from the ancient scroll, Huan Ling waved her hand over the pedestal. In an instant, clicking sounds echoed, and the platform began to descend, transporting her further into the depths, in pursuit of answers.

The chamber around her grew pitch-black, with only the torch in her hand to ward off the darkness. Suddenly, the platform came to a halt, and the surroundings illuminated, revealing a suspended stone pathway. The abrupt brilliance illuminated a cavern that unfolded around her—an astonishing revelation hidden beneath the catacombs.

Huan Ling used her torch to ignite the others nearby, and as the flames danced, they unveiled a vast stone pathway leading towards an enormous pyramid in the distance, a sight that left her stunned. She had never fathomed that such a structure existed beneath the family's estate. According to the heirloom's guidance, this pyramid was the origin of the family's Wrath.

With trepidation, she pondered her next course of action upon reaching the altar positioned at the pyramid's base. A box-shaped carving rested on the altar's surface, as if awaiting something to fill the void. Her research had instructed her to place the heirloom inside this recess. Following the ancient instructions, she unrolled the scroll and gingerly inserted it into the carving.

What transpired next took her by surprise.

The ground trembled beneath her, and she struggled to maintain her balance. Surrounding the altar, unfamiliar aqua-colored light trails activated, seemingly drawn from the scroll she had placed within the carving. These ethereal lights cascaded through the altar's surface, and due to the pyramid's immense size, they ignited enigmatic markings etched across its surface.

Huan Ling's eyes widened in disbelief as the pyramid seemed to come to life, its surface adorned with mesmerizing patterns, including the altar. Gazing at the heirloom, she noticed it pulsating with the same glowing markings. As her mind grappled with the surreal turn of events, the ground quaked once more, and this time, the pyramid resonated with an otherworldly energy, accompanied by the emergence of an ancient voice.

"A visitor? I haven't had anyone visit me for hundreds of years," the voice resonated through the air, and Huan Ling's eyes widened in shock.

A voice, dark and enigmatic.

The source of their power had always been a mystery, a potent force that had been passed down through generations in the Huan family. But now, standing before the pulsating lights of the ancient pyramid, Huan Ling couldn't help but entertain a chilling thought. Could the owner of this demonic voice, this so-called "Wrath," be a demon itself? Had it been imprisoned beneath their clan's ancestral grounds for countless years, perhaps even for centuries or millennia?

The immense pyramid pulsated with a light so hauntingly eerie, it cast shifting shadows across its ancient surface. Huan Ling, her heart pounding audibly in her ears, could barely grasp the magnitude of what was unfolding before her.

"Another Huan. But not the one I know..." The voice boomed, the echo traveling deep into the pyramid's depths. Huan Ling's knees buckled under her weight, but she caught herself, refusing to show vulnerability. The voice continued, its sinister tone unmistakable, "His scent lingers on you. An heir of his line, perhaps?"

She took a moment to find her voice, "My purpose here is to correct a fault in our family's defenses. But now, you have my attention. What are you?"

The voice sneered, "Huan Xuyi trapped me in this prison, using a relic you might be familiar with. To him, I was the Wrath."

She took a cautious step forward. "And do you serve us? The Huan family?"

"Serve?" The voice spat. "I was bound against my will. He made me his weapon, forcing me to destroy any threat against your line. But serve? No."

Huan Ling, clutching the scroll tightly, responded defiantly, "This scroll binds you to me. To us."

"Temporarily," The voice replied with a venomous edge.

Cutting to the chase, Huan Ling asked, "What exactly are you?"

A momentary silence, then a confession. "I am the last essence of a mighty dragon. Crafted by a master now trapped inside your ancestor, Huan Xuyi. That treacherous woman sealed both of us, condemning me to this eternity."

She frowned, trying to understand the intricate ties of her lineage. "Huan Xuyi? The progenitor of our line?"

The voice hissed, its words laced with contempt, "Your line? Your claim to her bloodline is as genuine as a mirage in the desert, and you dare to call yourselves her descendants? Imposters, all of you, who shamelessly adopted her name as your own!!! Now that she's dead, the seal around the pyramid weakens with each passing moment."

Huan Ling's eyes widened in disbelief, her world crashing around her. "You... answer me! Who then are we, if not her descendants?"

Wrath's sinister laughter echoed within the pyramid. "You are but pretenders, shadows of a once-proud lineage. The true Huan family never existed as Huan Xuyi never left behind any descendants."

Huan Ling's voice trembled with a mixture of fury and desperation. "Why didn't you use your wrath on the woman who seduced my son? Why spare him? Why did your power not descend upon those who wronged us?"

The voice, filled with chilling malice, responded with a bitter tone, "Every prison has its limitations, mortal. But make no mistake; my patience wears thin. As the seal weakens, so does the boundary between your world and mine."

Wrath's eerie voice continued to reveal unsettling truths. "That man... he carries a similar bloodline to my master. We must never harm the carriers of such bloodlines. And that woman, while not a direct descendant, bears a faint trace of it. As for his followers, they are shielded by some mysterious power, something that even my wrath could not pierce. There's a familiar and unsettling resonance between that man and his peculiar companion – it reminds me of Huan Xuyi herself."

Huan Ling's anger surged at the mention of the woman who had caused so much turmoil in her family. "That woman has a connection to your master?"

Wrath responded, "No, not directly. But she carries a fragment of that bloodline, bestowed upon her. However, my true interest lies in her child, a pure-blooded descendant of the gods."

"The child of that... woman? That Devil's Spawn?" Huan Ling's voice dripped with disdain as she remembered the offspring of her son's ill-fated affair.

Wrath countered with a sinister hiss, "Hmph... 'Devil spawn,' you call her? She is the embodiment of ancient power. Only a feeble mortal like you would dismiss such potential. She holds the key to my ultimate freedom, and with her body, I can regain my true form. Bring her to me."

Huan Ling clenched her fists, grappling with the sinister offer. "What if I refuse to bring that child to you?"

Wrath's response was chillingly direct, "Then, I will no longer protect you or your family. With the seal weakening, I am no longer bound to safeguard your interests. The scroll you hold has lost its power to compel me."

Huan Ling's resolve wavered, but she couldn't afford to bow to this malevolent entity's demands. "You... you are still bound to us by the scroll!"

The tension in the pyramid grew palpable, the fate of the Huan family hanging in the balance as a sinister force threatened to sever their last connection to their ancestral power.

The chilling voice of Wrath echoed ominously within the pyramid, "With the scroll's presence here, the seal's grip on me weakens. I am no longer a puppet to your every whim. However, the scroll remains the key to my freedom."

Huan Ling's heart raced. The balance of power was shifting, and she stood at the precipice of a dangerous gamble. Without Wrath's protection, her family's reign would crumble, and the city would rise against them.

"You bring me the child, and your family remains under my protection," Wrath proposed, a manipulative edge to its tone.

Huan Ling's thoughts raced, "Kidnap that girl? The protector guarding her could decimate our entire family force."

A sinister chuckle rippled through the pyramid, "Once I absorb her essence, her guardian will be rendered powerless. While I may no longer be bound to your orders, I am still tethered to your lineage. I cannot harm you. Bring her to me, and my might shall shield your family. This I promise."

Her thoughts went darker, the allure of power tantalizing, "If I secure this deal, not only will my family's dominion be unassailable here, but we could also extend our grasp beyond this realm."

Suddenly, a glint of hope emerged from the depths of her memories. An ancient elixir from the Huan vaults, said to grant men the might of the very earth they stood upon. With such power, even the formidable Yun Che would be overwhelmed. This was the key to seizing the child and putting an end to the specter that plagued her family.

Lost in her machinations, Huan Ling barely noticed the malevolent smirk that played on the face of the spirit within the pyramid. Deception is the realm of spirits and demons, and Wrath was a master of the art. "Indeed," it whispered, its voice dripping with treacherous intent, "I will protect you... until the moment I don't need to."

.....................

Three days had passed since their intensive training in bending arts began. Yun Che, after exhausting himself with firebending mastery, allowed himself a well-deserved rest. His ability to merge firebending with his sword techniques was on the brink of perfection, a testament to his dedication. His past-life memories of Avatar Aang and Avatar Korra had provided him with a wealth of knowledge, and while grasping the element's concept was challenging, he was steadily progressing.

With firebending integrated into his swordplay, he could unleash the bending arts through his blades, a feat he had long desired. The only drawback was his limited access to firebending, leaving him somewhat envious of his companions. Retsu had achieved mastery in waterbending, Mio had become proficient in airbending, and Kon had shown remarkable aptitude in earthbending.

As he mulled over their progress, Yun Che marveled at the girls' rapid development. They had quickly grasped the techniques bestowed upon them by the system, demonstrating top-notch execution. While their skills were not yet flawless, a bit more practice would undoubtedly perfect their bending arts. Following his advice, they had chosen to master one bending element instead of two, a decision that would serve them well in the future.

Retsu, however, stood out as a true anomaly. She had exhibited the ability to access a third bending element other than Mio's spatial bending, a feat Yun Che discovered during their training. Using her Essence of Yin and Yang, she could harness waterbending through her Yin side and firebending through her Yang side. Combining both sides enabled her to wield water and fire elements, a remarkable feat that left Yun Che in awe. Fire and water manifested through her manipulation of Yin and Yang, but there was more to her than met the eye. In her default state, she unveiled a third element: airbending. Her potential knew no bounds, and he couldn't help but appreciate her unwavering loyalty. 

This revelation left Yun Che astounded. Three bending elements resided within her, making her a potential force of nature. However, this gift came with its own set of challenges. She needed to choose which elements to focus on, as utilizing Yin or Yang would disable her airbending prowess.

Mio, on the other hand, possessed airbending, the rare darkness bending, and her unique spatial bending. Her abilities were a force to be reckoned with, and she held the potential to astonish the entire continent. Meanwhile, Kon's mastery of earthbending made him a valuable asset, despite his lack of access to the Earth seed.

In particular, Mio needed a dark art to complement her powers, as her abilities were originally raw and unrefined. Airbending had nearly reached essential mastery for her, and her proficiency in combining air and spatial arts was a testament to her talent.

Kon, however, had lagged behind in his training. While he had managed to grasp a few earthbending techniques, such as creating platforms and manipulating large rocks, his progress was slower than his peers. Despite the assistance of the system, practical experience was essential for his mastery.

Despite the disparities in their abilities, Yun Che believed in their potential, and with time, their powers would continue to grow.

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Yun Che sat in the cozy living room, engrossed in his books while the delightful aroma of dinner preparations filled the air. Retsu and the others had taken it upon themselves to train Lin Xin in culinary skills as part of her preparation for their impending departure. Yun Che had suggested that Lin Xin open a local Japanese restaurant to follow her newfound passion for cooking, creating a unique taste that no one could replicate. This way, she could not only survive in their absence but also continue their journey once they reunited. He had left her a substantial sum of money to ensure her financial security, but Lin Xin insisted on earning her own way as a token of gratitude for his kindness.

As he was lost in his thoughts and books, Yun Che felt a sudden embrace from behind, warm and filled with affection. Xueli, his newfound "little bunny," had taken to him with increasing fondness, especially since their recent encounter on the small island within the Moon Empress's tomb. Yun Che had defended her and her mother from their formidable grandmother in the city, which had further endeared him to her.

"Onii-chan!!!" Xueli exclaimed, hugging him tightly and nuzzling her cheek against his.

He smiled warmly and gently patted her head. "How's my favorite little bunny today?"

Xueli settled beside him, her eyes filled with innocent curiosity. "Ehehe… Onii-chan, why are you training again? Grandmother won't bother us anymore, right?"

Yun Che's smile softened as he explained, "I have to keep getting stronger, Xueli. It's my duty to protect my little bunny and your mama, no matter what."

Xueli tilted her head in confusion, her large eyes fixed on him. "But no one will bother us anymore, right? You can play with Xueli all the time."

He continued to pat her head, his affection evident. "Even though it seems peaceful now, I still have promises to keep, Xueli. I can't stop training just yet."

Their bond had grown from that of siblings to that of a father and daughter in a short time. Xueli had become an integral part of Yun Che's life, accompanying him almost everywhere he went. Her hugs and affection were commonplace, but her next question caught him off guard.

"Ummm… Onii-chan, can you be Xueli's papa?"

Yun Che's book slipped from his grasp, clattering onto the table. He blinked in surprise at her unexpected question. Why would Xueli suddenly ask such a thing? Was she trying to matchmake her mother and him?

Xueli continued with a hopeful look, "If you were my papa, you wouldn't need to train anymore. We could play together forever, and Mama would be so happy. Mama told me she really likes you. If you married Mama, you could be my papa, and then, Xueli could marry Onii-chan in the future..."

"Xueli," Yun Che murmured softly, a mixture of emotions surging within him. This matter was far more complex than Xueli's innocent heart could fathom.

"Yueyue could be my little sister, and Retsu nee-chan and Mio nee-chan could be my older sisters... then we could all be happy..." Xueli's face was filled with pure joy, but Yun Che knew that such a dream was beyond reach.

He couldn't bear to see the hope in her eyes crumble, but he had to be honest. "Xueli, I can't..."

Xueli's face fell, her bright eyes clouding with disappointment. "Ehh…why?"

Yun Che took a deep breath, knowing that this conversation had been inevitable. He couldn't hide the truth from her, and it was better that he be the one to explain. "Xueli, you know that Onii-chan and the Onee-chans came from the outside world, right? We have to return sooner or later."

"But... this is your home. Onii-chan likes living here, right? You won't leave, right?" Xueli tried to persuade him, her innocent optimism shining through.

"Nii-chan still has responsibilities... I brought your ancestor back home and revived your mama, but I have promises to keep—to my parents and Yue nee-chan. I can't stay here forever," Yun Che explained gently, unaware of the sadness that his words brought to Xueli's heart.

As Xueli heard those words, her innocent heart shattered into pieces. She had believed that Yun Che would always be with her, just as her papa and mama were. But now, even he had to leave one day, just like her Onee-chans and Kon. She reluctantly released her grip on Yun Che and began to back away, tears streaming down her cheeks as she sobbed uncontrollably. "Papa left me... mama left me... and now, Onii-chan and Onee-chans want to leave me too... Why? Why is everyone leaving me?! Why?!"

"Xueli..." Yun Che uttered, his heart heavy with guilt and sorrow.

"I hate you, Onii-chan!!!! I hate you and Onee-chans too!!!!" With that, she stormed out of the living room and raced toward the front gate, disappearing into the depths of the forest.

Lin Xin and the others rushed into the living room, alarmed by Xueli's sudden outburst. Panic and concern filled their eyes as they scanned the room, looking for any sign of Xueli. All they found was Yun Che, sitting on the floor with a pained and guilty expression.

Lin Xin was the first to speak, her voice trembling with worry. "Yun Che, what just happened? Why did Xueli scream like that? Where is she?"

"Danna-sama, what's going on? Where's Xueli?" Mio asked, her anxiety evident.

"Yuu-kun, did something happen with Xueli?" Retsu inquired, her concern deepening.

Cang Yue, who had remained silent with a bamboo shoot in her mouth, raised an eyebrow in curiosity, wondering what had transpired to make Xueli scream that she hated them all.

Yun Che took a deep breath and then explained the situation, recounting the conversation he had with Xueli and how she had expressed her feelings. His girls listened attentively, their heads bowed as they processed the information. They were relieved that Yun Che had taken the responsibility of breaking the news, but the pain of leaving Lin Xin and Xueli behind was a reality they couldn't escape.

As for Lin Xin, while she felt sadness at the thought of them leaving, she had expected it. She knew that cultivators like them couldn't be tied down to one place and that their destinies lay beyond the confines of this manor. She had witnessed their incredible power and could envision their journeys in the future. She had hoped that Yun Che could stay with her forever, but she understood that it was not meant to be. Her focus now was finding her daughter and comforting her.

Yun Che, sensing Lin Xin's intention to search for Xueli, gently stopped her. He gave her an apologetic look and spoke, "I'll go find her. She won't have gone too far, and I need to apologize to her."

Mio and Retsu immediately offered to accompany him to search for Xueli, but Cang Yue interrupted them with her suggestion. She communicated through the Tenteikura technique, addressing their concerns. "I'll go... She's more comfortable with my smaller form, and I'll be able to calm her down."

Yun Che nodded in agreement. "Please, take care of her, little Yue."

With that, Cang Yue hurried toward the front gate in her Nezuko form, which had grown slightly larger, resembling a thirteen-year-old. While her cultivation remained sealed, she hoped that her smaller form would help soothe Xueli and persuade her to return.

The remaining four were left in an awkward and somber silence, the weight of the situation pressing heavily upon them. This was not the atmosphere they had hoped for, and they all felt the ache of uncertainty and impending separation.