Chapter 165
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Chapter 165
Several more days passed, and the tower found itself with a growing crowd. Not everyone who arrived chose to stay- some passed on to seek out opportunities elsewhere in the Secret Realm. However, many also chose to stay. The origin of this chapter's debut can be traced to N0v3l--B1n.
Keeping track of the progress of others was difficult. The distortion of energy made it difficult to discern more detail about others in the tower except whether they were ahead or behind, with perhaps a vague sense of distance. The only information the Order had about Zvonkos progress was that he was generally higher than them- and they had reached three-quarters of the towers height. Chikere was ahead as well, and it seemed like either of the two could reach the peak in short order.
If Chikere were to reach the top first and receive some sort of exclusive awards, Anton and the others would not be upset. However, if Zvonko obtained something instead they would regret it. Even if it wasnt anything significant, nobody wanted their enemies to prosper. Together they continued to push ever upwards. As before, people began to copy their efforts. However, only a few groups could pull it off properly.
Even if they had the technical skill- someone who could lead the groups control and individual ability- it didnt always work out. Both groups from the Heavenly Lion Sect attempted to copy the efforts. Zvonkos group tried it for a single day, before returning to how they were previously doing things. The glances Anton had seen exchanged between members when he spied on them outside the tower seemed to indicate something had caused bad blood between them. He was actually somewhat happy about that. A petty victory, but a victory nonetheless. Though Nowells group was generally lower in cultivation and considered to be less talented, they continued to attempt working together in a formation. Even when they made little progress for several days, they kept at it- until they were climbing the tower with great efficiency.
Not quite like those from the Order though. It was impossible to say their ascent was effortless. Each of them worked themselves to exhaustion at the end of the day, or as near as they could afford to be. But there was a large difference between tiring yourself out and being tired as a group. There was a sort of happy harmony that came together from shared trials. Each of them was able to go further because they knew the others were with them, and even if someone staggered they would share the load.
-----
They climbed the tower once more. They quickly passed those low in cultivation who couldnt even make it more than a quarter of the way up. Yet about halfway up the tower the group from the Order found themselves being passed by determined individuals. But that didnt matter. They kept a steady pace, not hurrying through the lower levels nor slowing on the upper levels. Each step they took was much the same as they would do on a relaxed stroll.
At the three quarter point, the pressure bearing down on them was more than any of them could handle individually. Even with additional force pressing down on them as a group, however, the ability to distribute the load in a more bearable fashion allowed them to keep going.
Catarinas focus was unwavering as she minutely adjusted the flow with each step they took- when people were slow on their rotation up the stairs she coaxed them to retain their positions, each separated by a fixed distance.
They were passing late Spirit Building cultivators, including those who had rushed past them earlier in the tower. They continued until nine-tenths of the way up the tower. The top felt so close, yet so far. The weight pressing down on them strained their body and spirit, but they continued.
There were very few people ahead of them. One of those was Zvonko, but they were closing in step by step. Anton regulated his emotions so as not to throw off the others. His anger towards the man was quite valid, but unhelpful. The others would sympathize with his anger, and they could easily be thrown off together.
Zvonko came into sight around the bend and was soon a dozen steps above them. They kept going, each step adding more weight. Zvonko trembled in front of them as he tried to step higher. He took one step, then looked back. Though such an act could have easily weakened his resolve, it seemed to bolster him, his back straightening as he looked down on them. They stopped. Hmph. Im certain you all feel quite grand for nearly matching me, he grinned slightly, But I came here under my own power. The six of you are merely cheating the system.
Anton knew he could fill Zvonko full of arrows. While fighting would disrupt their formation somewhat, the others could handle it while he made his move. Of course, then what? Declare it was someone else who filled him full of holes or burned the body to ashes? There were so few people near them, though another member of the Heavenly Lion Sect was not far behind. Anton wondered if Zvonko realized they could kill him. Perhaps he did, and thought they wouldnt dare. But that wasnt the reason Anton chose. If he wanted the world to not be just about the strongest murdering others, he had to restrain himself. The others looked over at him, and he shook his head. Then he spoke to Zvonko, I wouldnt brag about being incapable of basic teamwork, you know. Even the strongest cultivators are not able to ignore the weight of numbers.
They continued walking. They hadnt stopped because they couldnt continue, but because it was a safe distance to think and a good place to spend some time adjusting. They returned to their pace, pressing upward. Zvonko just stared as they stepped up to where he was- and then past that point.
Congratulations, Hoyt offered once everything had settled down. Reaching Essence Collection is a big step, and even more difficult for independent cultivators.
Chikere turned to him and grinned. Thanks. I feel great. Congratulations on your own advancements as well. She looked over them. I have to say, being in a sect seems to have its advantages. But Im not willing to give up my freedom. Still, maybe I cant do everything alone. How about an alliance? She held out her hand. It doesnt have to be anything big. We dont have to swear to fight to the death for each other. But I think we could get along. You watch my back and I watch yours.
Before anyone could even say anything, Velvet was in front of her. She used both of her hands to grab Chikeres outstretched hand, shaking it. Of course I will. What else are friends for?
Anton thought it was a little bit early to call them friends, having met approximately twice for short periods. However, he also couldnt say that they werent friends. He offered his hand, though it took a moment for Velvet to give up her own grip. Though my own cultivation is currently inferior to yours, I would be glad to accept your offer. Though be aware that I am absolutely flooded with mortal enemies.
Even though she had made the offer, Chikere seemed hesitant to take Antons hand- until the thing about mortal enemies. Great! Its hard to know a person until you meet a few of their mortal enemies. That guy was one of them, right? With the whole hand thing.
That was all his decision, Anton shrugged, But it does indeed seem to be the case. And likely much of the Heavenly Lion Sect in general.
Yeah, his fathers one of the elders or something. You know how it is.
Hoyt tried to not react obviously to that, while being the next one to offer his hand. As Anton said, I do not know if this is a fair deal for you at the moment, but I would gladly exchange aid with you as suits us both.
Its fine, Chikere said. I mean, seriously, he said hed catch me when I was rolling by? she looked at Anton and snickered. Just imagining myself tumbling down the stairs and bowling people over, she giggled, ...but thats terribly dangerous. She frowned, Though now that Im in Essence Collection Hoyt slowly let go of her hand. I was only kidding about that. That would just kill people, and if Im going to do that her sword was suddenly in her hand, pointed at the sky. It would be with this! Her sword swiftly returned to its sheath with a snapping noise. But seriously Id appreciate backup if it came down to it. I can fight a half dozen, dozen chumps easily but I have my own enemies as well, and some of them have lots of guys to throw at me, if theyre okay with losing them. Which they are. Everyone else also agreed to the somewhat casual alliance, shaking hands one at a time.
Then they turned to look around the roof. With all of the relief that came from the pressure being released, they had sort of glossed over that it was more than just an empty surface. Though perhaps not much. There was only a single pedestal, on which stood seven black beads. Catarina quickly moved forward, checking them out as she leaned around them. Though before she could say anything, Chikere picked one up.
Neat. Its surprisingly heavy.
That could have been trapped! Catarina said.
Nah. This is a reward or something. Chikere stuck out her tongue. Its not food, or a pill. Maybe materials?
Catarina rolled her eyes and picked one up. She held it close, staring into it. Ooh. She nodded seriously to herself. I see. The tower also goes down.
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Chapter 165
Several more days passed, and the tower found itself with a growing crowd. Not everyone who arrived chose to stay- some passed on to seek out opportunities elsewhere in the Secret Realm. However, many also chose to stay. The origin of this chapter's debut can be traced to N0v3l--B1n.
Keeping track of the progress of others was difficult. The distortion of energy made it difficult to discern more detail about others in the tower except whether they were ahead or behind, with perhaps a vague sense of distance. The only information the Order had about Zvonkos progress was that he was generally higher than them- and they had reached three-quarters of the towers height. Chikere was ahead as well, and it seemed like either of the two could reach the peak in short order.
If Chikere were to reach the top first and receive some sort of exclusive awards, Anton and the others would not be upset. However, if Zvonko obtained something instead they would regret it. Even if it wasnt anything significant, nobody wanted their enemies to prosper. Together they continued to push ever upwards. As before, people began to copy their efforts. However, only a few groups could pull it off properly.
Even if they had the technical skill- someone who could lead the groups control and individual ability- it didnt always work out. Both groups from the Heavenly Lion Sect attempted to copy the efforts. Zvonkos group tried it for a single day, before returning to how they were previously doing things. The glances Anton had seen exchanged between members when he spied on them outside the tower seemed to indicate something had caused bad blood between them. He was actually somewhat happy about that. A petty victory, but a victory nonetheless. Though Nowells group was generally lower in cultivation and considered to be less talented, they continued to attempt working together in a formation. Even when they made little progress for several days, they kept at it- until they were climbing the tower with great efficiency.
Not quite like those from the Order though. It was impossible to say their ascent was effortless. Each of them worked themselves to exhaustion at the end of the day, or as near as they could afford to be. But there was a large difference between tiring yourself out and being tired as a group. There was a sort of happy harmony that came together from shared trials. Each of them was able to go further because they knew the others were with them, and even if someone staggered they would share the load.
-----
They climbed the tower once more. They quickly passed those low in cultivation who couldnt even make it more than a quarter of the way up. Yet about halfway up the tower the group from the Order found themselves being passed by determined individuals. But that didnt matter. They kept a steady pace, not hurrying through the lower levels nor slowing on the upper levels. Each step they took was much the same as they would do on a relaxed stroll.
At the three quarter point, the pressure bearing down on them was more than any of them could handle individually. Even with additional force pressing down on them as a group, however, the ability to distribute the load in a more bearable fashion allowed them to keep going.
Catarinas focus was unwavering as she minutely adjusted the flow with each step they took- when people were slow on their rotation up the stairs she coaxed them to retain their positions, each separated by a fixed distance.
They were passing late Spirit Building cultivators, including those who had rushed past them earlier in the tower. They continued until nine-tenths of the way up the tower. The top felt so close, yet so far. The weight pressing down on them strained their body and spirit, but they continued.
There were very few people ahead of them. One of those was Zvonko, but they were closing in step by step. Anton regulated his emotions so as not to throw off the others. His anger towards the man was quite valid, but unhelpful. The others would sympathize with his anger, and they could easily be thrown off together.
Zvonko came into sight around the bend and was soon a dozen steps above them. They kept going, each step adding more weight. Zvonko trembled in front of them as he tried to step higher. He took one step, then looked back. Though such an act could have easily weakened his resolve, it seemed to bolster him, his back straightening as he looked down on them. They stopped. Hmph. Im certain you all feel quite grand for nearly matching me, he grinned slightly, But I came here under my own power. The six of you are merely cheating the system.
Anton knew he could fill Zvonko full of arrows. While fighting would disrupt their formation somewhat, the others could handle it while he made his move. Of course, then what? Declare it was someone else who filled him full of holes or burned the body to ashes? There were so few people near them, though another member of the Heavenly Lion Sect was not far behind. Anton wondered if Zvonko realized they could kill him. Perhaps he did, and thought they wouldnt dare. But that wasnt the reason Anton chose. If he wanted the world to not be just about the strongest murdering others, he had to restrain himself. The others looked over at him, and he shook his head. Then he spoke to Zvonko, I wouldnt brag about being incapable of basic teamwork, you know. Even the strongest cultivators are not able to ignore the weight of numbers.
They continued walking. They hadnt stopped because they couldnt continue, but because it was a safe distance to think and a good place to spend some time adjusting. They returned to their pace, pressing upward. Zvonko just stared as they stepped up to where he was- and then past that point.
Congratulations, Hoyt offered once everything had settled down. Reaching Essence Collection is a big step, and even more difficult for independent cultivators.
Chikere turned to him and grinned. Thanks. I feel great. Congratulations on your own advancements as well. She looked over them. I have to say, being in a sect seems to have its advantages. But Im not willing to give up my freedom. Still, maybe I cant do everything alone. How about an alliance? She held out her hand. It doesnt have to be anything big. We dont have to swear to fight to the death for each other. But I think we could get along. You watch my back and I watch yours.
Before anyone could even say anything, Velvet was in front of her. She used both of her hands to grab Chikeres outstretched hand, shaking it. Of course I will. What else are friends for?
Anton thought it was a little bit early to call them friends, having met approximately twice for short periods. However, he also couldnt say that they werent friends. He offered his hand, though it took a moment for Velvet to give up her own grip. Though my own cultivation is currently inferior to yours, I would be glad to accept your offer. Though be aware that I am absolutely flooded with mortal enemies.
Even though she had made the offer, Chikere seemed hesitant to take Antons hand- until the thing about mortal enemies. Great! Its hard to know a person until you meet a few of their mortal enemies. That guy was one of them, right? With the whole hand thing.
That was all his decision, Anton shrugged, But it does indeed seem to be the case. And likely much of the Heavenly Lion Sect in general.
Yeah, his fathers one of the elders or something. You know how it is.
Hoyt tried to not react obviously to that, while being the next one to offer his hand. As Anton said, I do not know if this is a fair deal for you at the moment, but I would gladly exchange aid with you as suits us both.
Its fine, Chikere said. I mean, seriously, he said hed catch me when I was rolling by? she looked at Anton and snickered. Just imagining myself tumbling down the stairs and bowling people over, she giggled, ...but thats terribly dangerous. She frowned, Though now that Im in Essence Collection Hoyt slowly let go of her hand. I was only kidding about that. That would just kill people, and if Im going to do that her sword was suddenly in her hand, pointed at the sky. It would be with this! Her sword swiftly returned to its sheath with a snapping noise. But seriously Id appreciate backup if it came down to it. I can fight a half dozen, dozen chumps easily but I have my own enemies as well, and some of them have lots of guys to throw at me, if theyre okay with losing them. Which they are. Everyone else also agreed to the somewhat casual alliance, shaking hands one at a time.
Then they turned to look around the roof. With all of the relief that came from the pressure being released, they had sort of glossed over that it was more than just an empty surface. Though perhaps not much. There was only a single pedestal, on which stood seven black beads. Catarina quickly moved forward, checking them out as she leaned around them. Though before she could say anything, Chikere picked one up.
Neat. Its surprisingly heavy.
That could have been trapped! Catarina said.
Nah. This is a reward or something. Chikere stuck out her tongue. Its not food, or a pill. Maybe materials?
Catarina rolled her eyes and picked one up. She held it close, staring into it. Ooh. She nodded seriously to herself. I see. The tower also goes down.
Chapter 165Several more days passed, and the tower found itself with a growing crowd. Not everyone who arrived chose to stay- some passed on to seek out opportunities elsewhere in the Secret Realm. However, many also chose to stay. The origin of this chapter's debut can be traced to N0v3l--B1n.Keeping track of the progress of others was difficult. The distortion of energy made it difficult to discern more detail about others in the tower except whether they were ahead or behind, with perhaps a vague sense of distance. The only information the Order had about Zvonkos progress was that he was generally higher than them- and they had reached three-quarters of the towers height. Chikere was ahead as well, and it seemed like either of the two could reach the peak in short order.If Chikere were to reach the top first and receive some sort of exclusive awards, Anton and the others would not be upset. However, if Zvonko obtained something instead they would regret it. Even if it wasnt anything significant, nobody wanted their enemies to prosper. Together they continued to push ever upwards. As before, people began to copy their efforts. However, only a few groups could pull it off properly.Even if they had the technical skill- someone who could lead the groups control and individual ability- it didnt always work out. Both groups from the Heavenly Lion Sect attempted to copy the efforts. Zvonkos group tried it for a single day, before returning to how they were previously doing things. The glances Anton had seen exchanged between members when he spied on them outside the tower seemed to indicate something had caused bad blood between them. He was actually somewhat happy about that. A petty victory, but a victory nonetheless. Though Nowells group was generally lower in cultivation and considered to be less talented, they continued to attempt working together in a formation. Even when they made little progress for several days, they kept at it- until they were climbing the tower with great efficiency.Not quite like those from the Order though. It was impossible to say their ascent was effortless. Each of them worked themselves to exhaustion at the end of the day, or as near as they could afford to be. But there was a large difference between tiring yourself out and being tired as a group. There was a sort of happy harmony that came together from shared trials. Each of them was able to go further because they knew the others were with them, and even if someone staggered they would share the load.-----They climbed the tower once more. They quickly passed those low in cultivation who couldnt even make it more than a quarter of the way up. Yet about halfway up the tower the group from the Order found themselves being passed by determined individuals. But that didnt matter. They kept a steady pace, not hurrying through the lower levels nor slowing on the upper levels. Each step they took was much the same as they would do on a relaxed stroll.At the three quarter point, the pressure bearing down on them was more than any of them could handle individually. Even with additional force pressing down on them as a group, however, the ability to distribute the load in a more bearable fashion allowed them to keep going. Catarinas focus was unwavering as she minutely adjusted the flow with each step they took- when people were slow on their rotation up the stairs she coaxed them to retain their positions, each separated by a fixed distance. They were passing late Spirit Building cultivators, including those who had rushed past them earlier in the tower. They continued until nine-tenths of the way up the tower. The top felt so close, yet so far. The weight pressing down on them strained their body and spirit, but they continued. There were very few people ahead of them. One of those was Zvonko, but they were closing in step by step. Anton regulated his emotions so as not to throw off the others. His anger towards the man was quite valid, but unhelpful. The others would sympathize with his anger, and they could easily be thrown off together. Zvonko came into sight around the bend and was soon a dozen steps above them. They kept going, each step adding more weight. Zvonko trembled in front of them as he tried to step higher. He took one step, then looked back. Though such an act could have easily weakened his resolve, it seemed to bolster him, his back straightening as he looked down on them. They stopped. Hmph. Im certain you all feel quite grand for nearly matching me, he grinned slightly, But I came here under my own power. The six of you are merely cheating the system.Anton knew he could fill Zvonko full of arrows. While fighting would disrupt their formation somewhat, the others could handle it while he made his move. Of course, then what? Declare it was someone else who filled him full of holes or burned the body to ashes? There were so few people near them, though another member of the Heavenly Lion Sect was not far behind. Anton wondered if Zvonko realized they could kill him. Perhaps he did, and thought they wouldnt dare. But that wasnt the reason Anton chose. If he wanted the world to not be just about the strongest murdering others, he had to restrain himself. The others looked over at him, and he shook his head. Then he spoke to Zvonko, I wouldnt brag about being incapable of basic teamwork, you know. Even the strongest cultivators are not able to ignore the weight of numbers.They continued walking. They hadnt stopped because they couldnt continue, but because it was a safe distance to think and a good place to spend some time adjusting. They returned to their pace, pressing upward. Zvonko just stared as they stepped up to where he was- and then past that point.Congratulations, Hoyt offered once everything had settled down. Reaching Essence Collection is a big step, and even more difficult for independent cultivators.Chikere turned to him and grinned. Thanks. I feel great. Congratulations on your own advancements as well. She looked over them. I have to say, being in a sect seems to have its advantages. But Im not willing to give up my freedom. Still, maybe I cant do everything alone. How about an alliance? She held out her hand. It doesnt have to be anything big. We dont have to swear to fight to the death for each other. But I think we could get along. You watch my back and I watch yours.Before anyone could even say anything, Velvet was in front of her. She used both of her hands to grab Chikeres outstretched hand, shaking it. Of course I will. What else are friends for?Anton thought it was a little bit early to call them friends, having met approximately twice for short periods. However, he also couldnt say that they werent friends. He offered his hand, though it took a moment for Velvet to give up her own grip. Though my own cultivation is currently inferior to yours, I would be glad to accept your offer. Though be aware that I am absolutely flooded with mortal enemies.Even though she had made the offer, Chikere seemed hesitant to take Antons hand- until the thing about mortal enemies. Great! Its hard to know a person until you meet a few of their mortal enemies. That guy was one of them, right? With the whole hand thing.That was all his decision, Anton shrugged, But it does indeed seem to be the case. And likely much of the Heavenly Lion Sect in general.Yeah, his fathers one of the elders or something. You know how it is.Hoyt tried to not react obviously to that, while being the next one to offer his hand. As Anton said, I do not know if this is a fair deal for you at the moment, but I would gladly exchange aid with you as suits us both.Its fine, Chikere said. I mean, seriously, he said hed catch me when I was rolling by? she looked at Anton and snickered. Just imagining myself tumbling down the stairs and bowling people over, she giggled, ...but thats terribly dangerous. She frowned, Though now that Im in Essence Collection Hoyt slowly let go of her hand. I was only kidding about that. That would just kill people, and if Im going to do that her sword was suddenly in her hand, pointed at the sky. It would be with this! Her sword swiftly returned to its sheath with a snapping noise. But seriously Id appreciate backup if it came down to it. I can fight a half dozen, dozen chumps easily but I have my own enemies as well, and some of them have lots of guys to throw at me, if theyre okay with losing them. Which they are. Everyone else also agreed to the somewhat casual alliance, shaking hands one at a time.Then they turned to look around the roof. With all of the relief that came from the pressure being released, they had sort of glossed over that it was more than just an empty surface. Though perhaps not much. There was only a single pedestal, on which stood seven black beads. Catarina quickly moved forward, checking them out as she leaned around them. Though before she could say anything, Chikere picked one up.Neat. Its surprisingly heavy.That could have been trapped! Catarina said.Nah. This is a reward or something. Chikere stuck out her tongue. Its not food, or a pill. Maybe materials?Catarina rolled her eyes and picked one up. She held it close, staring into it. Ooh. She nodded seriously to herself. I see. The tower also goes down.
