As I thought about what to say to Tang Mu, an idea came to me.
"Well, senior," I began cautiously, "you see, I'm a newbie. I still don't know what path to pick. Do you have any suggestions?"
Tang Mu's chest swelled with pride.
"Well, you've asked the right person the right question. As a newbie, I think you should go with the Mana system. It improves strength, stamina, and other abilities. Of course, it can't compare to our Qi cultivation system, but for you, it would be the best start."
I stayed silent for a moment, thinking. Then I asked,
"What about Ultima?"
Tang Mu's smile vanished. His eyes widened as he stared at me, as if I had just declared my intent to rule the heavens.
"Do you even know what you're saying? Ultima?!" His voice trembled with disbelief.
"Now I'm absolutely sure—you've been living under a rock."
"Why?" I asked calmly.
"Because Ultima has been forbidden," Tang Mu explained. "After the incident 5,000 years ago—which you should already know about—all the empires in the world banned Ultima. Its power is far too dangerous and unpredictable."
"The seven empires across the seven continents still possess the methods to cultivate Ultima… but they choose not to use it. All the empires agreed that Ultima will only be used in times of extreme crisis."
"And honestly," he added, shaking his head, "don't you think there are already enough paths to grow strong in this world?"
I stayed silent for a while, nodding as I processed his words.
After a moment, I spoke again.
"Senior, if you don't mind, can you tell me about the origin of our world?"
Tang Mu's prideful smile returned.
"Well, if you insist…"
"Even before 5,000 years ago, the great empires were completely unaware of each other's existence. Our great Zhang Empire became the home of Qi cultivators and ancient sects. It was we who first discovered the westerners—those who cultivate Mana."
"At first, neither side could even perceive the other. But soon enough, both realized that hating each other was meaningless. Thus, an alliance was formed."
"Later, we discovered the Kai and Soul cultivation empires as well. That was when a global alliance truly came into existence."
"Like the doctor you spoke to earlier—James, the fourth-level healer. He's from the Mana Empire. You see? It's completely normal for cultivators of different systems to explore each other's lands and cultures."
Tang Mu leaned back and continued,
"Now, let me tell you about the seven empires of the present era."
"First, the Zhang Empire—the strongest of all. It is the capital of Qi cultivation and the home of countless ancient sects."
"Second, the Astralith Enclave—masters of Mana cultivation."
"Third, the Kanji Empire—the homeland of Soul cultivators."
"Fourth, the Kin Hui Empire, practitioners of Kai cultivation. Though similar to Qi and Mana, Kai is considered a distinct path."
"Fifth, the Ping Si Empire—another Kai-based empire, known for its unique techniques."
"Sixth, the Long Han Empire—a hybrid empire of Mana and Soul practitioners."
"And lastly, the Verdantia Empire. It focuses on mortal strength and strategy. Its specialty lies in population-based power, mortal ingenuity, and the rise of rare heroes. With fertile plains, massive trade hubs, and legendary beasts, it is known as the empire that maintains the balance of power."
Tang Mu picked up a glass of water and drank deeply.
"Ah… my mouth is really dry after speaking for so long. So, what do you think, junior… Hao?"
I smiled faintly.
"Hao. And thank you very much, senior. This information will be extremely helpful."
I got up from my bed.
"If you'll excuse me, I'm going to the washroom."
After using the toilet, I washed my hands. For the first time in a long while, I truly looked at my reflection in the mirror.
Red hair.
Deep blue eyes.
A thin, wiry body.
I stared at myself for a long moment, then let out a quiet laugh.
"I look like a beggar."
When I returned to my bed, the news was playing on the screen.
"Heavens… he is cold," Tang Mu muttered.
I looked at him, confused.
"What are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about the man who killed Sho Huang and his entire gang," Tang Mu replied grimly. "Not a single member survived that night. Whoever did it tore them apart like paper."
"Not to mention," he continued, "the entire house and surrounding area were left with a massive handprint. Authorities have banned anyone from approaching within twenty meters of the site."
"They discovered an overwhelming amount of demonic aura there. The animals nearby were corrupted by it, turning into demonic beasts."
"The people have already given that man a title—Devil Incarnate Angel—because he eradicated one of their greatest nightmares, Sho Huang's gang."
"But the authorities remain on high alert," Tang Mu said seriously. "Killing a fifth-level Mana Circle cultivator is not something that can be ignored."
Hearing this, I said nothing outwardly.
But inside, I made a silent vow.
Whatever demonic entity is living inside me… I have to get rid of it. Fast.