Chapter 11: Returning to the Sect
After returning to the Bright Blade Subsect, Elton and the other six warriors immediately reported to the sect elders about their mission. They detailed the demonic goblin variant's unexpected strength and how they had encountered the demonic cultivator Varric. Their wounds and exhaustion made it clear how difficult the mission had been, but their successful return proved their capabilities.
The elders listened attentively, nodding in approval as they took note of their disciples' performances. "You all have done well," Elder Joan finally declared. "To face such a threat and come back alive is commendable. Each of you will receive an extra reward for this accomplishment."
The rewards were distributed based on their contributions. Elton, having slain both the goblin and the demonic cultivator, received the highest reward—substantial contribution points, additional gold coins, and a pouch filled with refined cultivation resources. As the distribution ended, Elder Joan's sharp eyes locked onto Elton.
"You've broken through to Silver Tier 2, haven't you?" he observed.
Elton stiffened before nodding. "Yes, Elder."
A pleased smile spread across the elder's face. "Impressive progress. To advance in such a short time is not something many can achieve." He tossed a small bottle of Spirit Refining Pills to Elton. "A reward for your efforts and growth. Use them wisely."
Elton accepted them respectfully, though inside, he was conflicted. He still didn't fully understand what had happened during the battle. How had he broken through so suddenly? How had he used that lightning spear magic? His inner voice, which was normally so talkative, had been silent since their return.
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A day later, while resting in his quarters, Elton heard an excited knock. Before he could even respond, Zoro barged in, a wide grin plastered on his face.
"So the rumors are true! You really broke through!" Zoro exclaimed, his eyes filled with competitive excitement.
Elton managed a bitter smile. "Yeah... something like that."
Zoro didn't seem to notice Elton's conflicted expression. "Damn, now I really have to push myself. I won't let you leave me behind, Elton!" He smirked and patted Elton's shoulder. "Watch out, I'll be catching up soon."
With that, he left just as abruptly as he had entered, leaving Elton alone with his thoughts.
Meanwhile, Christy, upon hearing the news from a servant, merely smiled to herself. "Congratulations," she murmured, before closing her eyes again and resuming her meditation.
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The subsect soon made a major announcement. In two months, there would be an internal competition among the Bright Blade Subsect disciples. The top-ranked competitors would earn the right to participate in a special mission sponsored by the main sect—the Bright Brilliant Blade Cultivation Sect. However, there was an added twist: disciples from the Fighting Brawlman Cultivation Sect and the Iron Fang Sect's lower branches would also be involved. The mission's rewards were high, but so were the risks.
Excitement buzzed through the subsect. This was a golden opportunity for recognition, advancement, and resources. Many disciples immediately threw themselves into rigorous training, preparing for the upcoming competition.
Elton, though still haunted by his recent experience, knew that he had no choice but to focus on what was ahead. After fully recovering, he devoted himself entirely to training. The Bright Blade Sword Style had five stances, and while he had begun grasping the third stance, he was far from mastering it. The fourth and fifth stances were even more challenging.
Day and night, he trained relentlessly, his blade cutting through the air as he refined his movements. His body adapted to the increasingly complex techniques, and he started to see improvements in his mastery of the Bright Blade Sword Style. Yet, the unease within him remained. He needed to understand what had happened to him during the battle against Varric.
Two months was not a long time, but Elton was determined. He had to be stronger—both for himself and for whatever unknown forces were pushing him forward.
The path ahead was clear: train, fight, and uncover the truth.