Chapter 163
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Chapter 163
Though the mangrove lotus doubtless had some effect on providing safety for the boat, the larger factor in keeping them safe was rather straightforward. The beasts in the seas had grown large and violent over the ages, but still had caution in regard to each other. When new factors arrived- that being humans- they were thrown into a frenzy. But as they entered a feeding frenzy to attack the humans and each other, their numbers dwindled. Now that some time had passed and everyone had reached at least the first island, the seas had to calm down somewhat.
That didnt mean that travel was safe, since the more cautious but also more dangerous predators still lurked in the depths, but it did mean the second journey wasnt such a constant battle. Though distance was hard to determine on the strange sea, they were about halfway to the next island they had targeted when the first curious beast approached. It was easily dissuaded by a warning shot from Anton.
The next one was more aggressive, coming from straight underneath. However, Devon was ready for it. Against a horde of undersea creatures leaning over the edge of the boat was ill advised, but when dealing with just a single target it was safe enough. Chains made of energy extended down beneath the boat, wrapping around the spear-like nose of the charging fish. He redirected its movements to the side, resulting in it briefly breaking the surface of the water. Devon held it still while it tried to dive back down as Hoyt hacked through it.
With the beasts more spread out there wasnt an immediate frenzy over the blood and body, and they were able to continue onward with only a few more interruptions.
The island they were approaching stood out from the others on the basis of having a large tower. A lighthouse, from the looks of it, but there had to be more to it than just that. For one thing, it would be pointless to have a lighthouse on a lone island in an area that seemed to have no fog or inclement weather of any sort.
Upon arrival it was clear that others shared in the same judgment, because there were at least a handful of other groups on the island. It was hard to tell exactly with different cultivation techniques and how they were spread out seemingly randomly inside the tower. As the group approached the entrance, they began to sense more about the tower.
The formation made no attempt to hide itself, and because of previous experience everyone recognized it as something similar to the pressure formations Everheart had. As they entered the base of the tower they felt the energy pressing down on them quite clearly. But unlike Everhearts, the formation was more or less arranged vertically. In short, the pressure seemed to increase as one went up the tower on the spiraling stairs. For an equal amount of effort from the formation, it was somewhat harder and more dangerous than what Everheart had. After all, climbing stairs was harder than walking on flat ground- it was just that neither were generally relevant for cultivators. This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.
Fighting against the pressure while raising ones body higher would actually be a decent test. As for the danger, a cultivator who had completed Body Tempering had little to fear from falling down, or even tumbling down a flight of stairs. They werent so fragile as to be damaged from either, but that was considering normal gravity- or equivalent gravity. With the pressure pushing them downward, if they fell the wrong way they would be facing multiple times the force. It would make little difference until the point someone collapsed, but that made pushing oneself to the limit more risky.
As they stood at the bottom of the stairs, the feeling of those up above became more clear. Some familiar techniques were sensed- including members of the Heavenly Lion Sect. One particular sensation stuck out to Anton.
Zvonko, he declared.
Should we be concerned? Devon asked.
Perhaps. I would suggest none of us get too far apart. Anton shook his head, If I didnt know better, I would say that he wouldnt openly attack us. But considering the last incident between us, he clearly is willing to do so.
A sore loser. Though he should be weaker now, Devon gestured to his own arm.
Perhaps, Anton agreed, But some people grow stronger in adversity. In addition, I didnt achieve that entirely on my own merits. Hes late Spirit Building in cultivation. The Heavenly Lion Sects technique is not poor, so my own abilities arent a match. Previously Lev assisted me, and Zvonko was unable to gather much energy to attack or defend since it was a surprise attack. Im not unconfident in standing against him now, but I certainly wouldnt assume my victory.
Velvet looked up the spiral stairs. Whats the purpose of this tower? Just training? Should we expect any sort of rewards?
It doesnt seem like a practical defensive formation, Catarina said. I see no indication there was an exception for those who belong. So its purpose was likely training. The gradual nature of the increase makes little sense for anything else. As for rewards she shook her head.
Velvet sighed. Right. They would probably be handed out by the sect. But there might instead be something at the top.
Its worth the attempt, Hoyt said. And setting up something like this for training is beyond even the Order.
Excuse me? Anton raised an eyebrow.
Not you, she said flippantly. You have nothing to do with this. This is an internal affair of the Heavenly Lion Sect.
Is that so? Anton asked. What a strange place to deal with internal matters. Because just a week ago Im quite certain you all must have been in your actual sect, were you not? Why not handle it then?
... shut up, she said unconvincingly. Just stay out of this.
Anton covered Nowells mouth when he was about to say something that probably amounted to letting him handle it and it being his own problem. He smiled gently as he looked at the young woman standing in front of him. Let me ask you something. Have you been standing there long?
Whats it to you?
Anton shrugged, I was just wondering if this is as far as you can go. You seem like you should be able to climb higher. But maybe not.
I can, the woman stomped her foot, glaring at Anton. I just have to deal with this.
Why? Anton asked. This is a location for training. That is the best use of your time. Yet someone has you standing here, dealing with internal matters... but why? Anton stroked his chin, Its almost as if they are afraid of others growing stronger. Do you think thats why Zvonko ordered you to block the way here?
Well, I- she was a better liar than Nowell, but not good enough to avoid Antons focused insight. I dont know what you mean. He cant order me to do anything.
A good answer, Anton said. He started walking up the stairs patting her on the head as he went by. Try to remember that one.
Buh- you-! she balled up her fists, unsure how to react but clearly aware of how she was outnumbered. She glared at Nowell as he passed, but didnt make a move towards him.
After they were quite a bit further on, and out of earshot, Nowell thanked Anton once more. I appreciate your help, really, but you cant always remain with me.
Thats true, Anton said. Do you have your own group? Others from the Heavenly Lion Sect you trust?
Yes, a few here with me. We didnt think it would matter if we split. But I can meet up with them at the end of the day.
Good, Anton said. Though you dont necessarily need them. He suddenly stepped towards Nowell, pushing his shoulder. As he began to fall back, Anton grabbed onto his shirt. Youre used to balancing in normal circumstances, but you havent quite adapted here. You should get some practice in a difficult environment. Anton stepped down to be parallel to him, the steps wide enough they could both stand on the same one somewhat comfortably. You need to be ready for sudden changes, and not just the gradual push of the tower. I think the rest of us could use a bit of practice, too. Since we might end up fighting here.
Nowell raised an eyebrow. Sparring? Here?
Just light sparring, Anton said. Pushing and grappling, unarmed. I think we could all learn something. He had the Vessel of Insights active, so that if they really did learn something they might get a little bit extra for later. So, on an empty stretch of stairs, two pairs of cultivators began some of the slowest sparring matches for cultivators in mid Spirit Building. They werent exactly slow, but the speed at which they moved was certainly restricted by the pressure. Any connecting blow felt more significant with the threat that they might fall down the stairs- though they very intentionally aligned themselves so that people would be more likely to impact on the outer or inner walls instead of beginning a rolling descent. Though Devon would later suggest they just try rolling on purpose to see how they could protect themselves.
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Chapter 163
Though the mangrove lotus doubtless had some effect on providing safety for the boat, the larger factor in keeping them safe was rather straightforward. The beasts in the seas had grown large and violent over the ages, but still had caution in regard to each other. When new factors arrived- that being humans- they were thrown into a frenzy. But as they entered a feeding frenzy to attack the humans and each other, their numbers dwindled. Now that some time had passed and everyone had reached at least the first island, the seas had to calm down somewhat.
That didnt mean that travel was safe, since the more cautious but also more dangerous predators still lurked in the depths, but it did mean the second journey wasnt such a constant battle. Though distance was hard to determine on the strange sea, they were about halfway to the next island they had targeted when the first curious beast approached. It was easily dissuaded by a warning shot from Anton.
The next one was more aggressive, coming from straight underneath. However, Devon was ready for it. Against a horde of undersea creatures leaning over the edge of the boat was ill advised, but when dealing with just a single target it was safe enough. Chains made of energy extended down beneath the boat, wrapping around the spear-like nose of the charging fish. He redirected its movements to the side, resulting in it briefly breaking the surface of the water. Devon held it still while it tried to dive back down as Hoyt hacked through it.
With the beasts more spread out there wasnt an immediate frenzy over the blood and body, and they were able to continue onward with only a few more interruptions.
The island they were approaching stood out from the others on the basis of having a large tower. A lighthouse, from the looks of it, but there had to be more to it than just that. For one thing, it would be pointless to have a lighthouse on a lone island in an area that seemed to have no fog or inclement weather of any sort.
Upon arrival it was clear that others shared in the same judgment, because there were at least a handful of other groups on the island. It was hard to tell exactly with different cultivation techniques and how they were spread out seemingly randomly inside the tower. As the group approached the entrance, they began to sense more about the tower.
The formation made no attempt to hide itself, and because of previous experience everyone recognized it as something similar to the pressure formations Everheart had. As they entered the base of the tower they felt the energy pressing down on them quite clearly. But unlike Everhearts, the formation was more or less arranged vertically. In short, the pressure seemed to increase as one went up the tower on the spiraling stairs. For an equal amount of effort from the formation, it was somewhat harder and more dangerous than what Everheart had. After all, climbing stairs was harder than walking on flat ground- it was just that neither were generally relevant for cultivators. This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.
Fighting against the pressure while raising ones body higher would actually be a decent test. As for the danger, a cultivator who had completed Body Tempering had little to fear from falling down, or even tumbling down a flight of stairs. They werent so fragile as to be damaged from either, but that was considering normal gravity- or equivalent gravity. With the pressure pushing them downward, if they fell the wrong way they would be facing multiple times the force. It would make little difference until the point someone collapsed, but that made pushing oneself to the limit more risky.
As they stood at the bottom of the stairs, the feeling of those up above became more clear. Some familiar techniques were sensed- including members of the Heavenly Lion Sect. One particular sensation stuck out to Anton.
Zvonko, he declared.
Should we be concerned? Devon asked.
Perhaps. I would suggest none of us get too far apart. Anton shook his head, If I didnt know better, I would say that he wouldnt openly attack us. But considering the last incident between us, he clearly is willing to do so.
A sore loser. Though he should be weaker now, Devon gestured to his own arm.
Perhaps, Anton agreed, But some people grow stronger in adversity. In addition, I didnt achieve that entirely on my own merits. Hes late Spirit Building in cultivation. The Heavenly Lion Sects technique is not poor, so my own abilities arent a match. Previously Lev assisted me, and Zvonko was unable to gather much energy to attack or defend since it was a surprise attack. Im not unconfident in standing against him now, but I certainly wouldnt assume my victory.
Velvet looked up the spiral stairs. Whats the purpose of this tower? Just training? Should we expect any sort of rewards?
It doesnt seem like a practical defensive formation, Catarina said. I see no indication there was an exception for those who belong. So its purpose was likely training. The gradual nature of the increase makes little sense for anything else. As for rewards she shook her head.
Velvet sighed. Right. They would probably be handed out by the sect. But there might instead be something at the top.
Its worth the attempt, Hoyt said. And setting up something like this for training is beyond even the Order.
Excuse me? Anton raised an eyebrow.
Not you, she said flippantly. You have nothing to do with this. This is an internal affair of the Heavenly Lion Sect.
Is that so? Anton asked. What a strange place to deal with internal matters. Because just a week ago Im quite certain you all must have been in your actual sect, were you not? Why not handle it then?
... shut up, she said unconvincingly. Just stay out of this.
Anton covered Nowells mouth when he was about to say something that probably amounted to letting him handle it and it being his own problem. He smiled gently as he looked at the young woman standing in front of him. Let me ask you something. Have you been standing there long?
Whats it to you?
Anton shrugged, I was just wondering if this is as far as you can go. You seem like you should be able to climb higher. But maybe not.
I can, the woman stomped her foot, glaring at Anton. I just have to deal with this.
Why? Anton asked. This is a location for training. That is the best use of your time. Yet someone has you standing here, dealing with internal matters... but why? Anton stroked his chin, Its almost as if they are afraid of others growing stronger. Do you think thats why Zvonko ordered you to block the way here?
Well, I- she was a better liar than Nowell, but not good enough to avoid Antons focused insight. I dont know what you mean. He cant order me to do anything.
A good answer, Anton said. He started walking up the stairs patting her on the head as he went by. Try to remember that one.
Buh- you-! she balled up her fists, unsure how to react but clearly aware of how she was outnumbered. She glared at Nowell as he passed, but didnt make a move towards him.
After they were quite a bit further on, and out of earshot, Nowell thanked Anton once more. I appreciate your help, really, but you cant always remain with me.
Thats true, Anton said. Do you have your own group? Others from the Heavenly Lion Sect you trust?
Yes, a few here with me. We didnt think it would matter if we split. But I can meet up with them at the end of the day.
Good, Anton said. Though you dont necessarily need them. He suddenly stepped towards Nowell, pushing his shoulder. As he began to fall back, Anton grabbed onto his shirt. Youre used to balancing in normal circumstances, but you havent quite adapted here. You should get some practice in a difficult environment. Anton stepped down to be parallel to him, the steps wide enough they could both stand on the same one somewhat comfortably. You need to be ready for sudden changes, and not just the gradual push of the tower. I think the rest of us could use a bit of practice, too. Since we might end up fighting here.
Nowell raised an eyebrow. Sparring? Here?
Just light sparring, Anton said. Pushing and grappling, unarmed. I think we could all learn something. He had the Vessel of Insights active, so that if they really did learn something they might get a little bit extra for later. So, on an empty stretch of stairs, two pairs of cultivators began some of the slowest sparring matches for cultivators in mid Spirit Building. They werent exactly slow, but the speed at which they moved was certainly restricted by the pressure. Any connecting blow felt more significant with the threat that they might fall down the stairs- though they very intentionally aligned themselves so that people would be more likely to impact on the outer or inner walls instead of beginning a rolling descent. Though Devon would later suggest they just try rolling on purpose to see how they could protect themselves.
Chapter 163Though the mangrove lotus doubtless had some effect on providing safety for the boat, the larger factor in keeping them safe was rather straightforward. The beasts in the seas had grown large and violent over the ages, but still had caution in regard to each other. When new factors arrived- that being humans- they were thrown into a frenzy. But as they entered a feeding frenzy to attack the humans and each other, their numbers dwindled. Now that some time had passed and everyone had reached at least the first island, the seas had to calm down somewhat. That didnt mean that travel was safe, since the more cautious but also more dangerous predators still lurked in the depths, but it did mean the second journey wasnt such a constant battle. Though distance was hard to determine on the strange sea, they were about halfway to the next island they had targeted when the first curious beast approached. It was easily dissuaded by a warning shot from Anton.The next one was more aggressive, coming from straight underneath. However, Devon was ready for it. Against a horde of undersea creatures leaning over the edge of the boat was ill advised, but when dealing with just a single target it was safe enough. Chains made of energy extended down beneath the boat, wrapping around the spear-like nose of the charging fish. He redirected its movements to the side, resulting in it briefly breaking the surface of the water. Devon held it still while it tried to dive back down as Hoyt hacked through it. With the beasts more spread out there wasnt an immediate frenzy over the blood and body, and they were able to continue onward with only a few more interruptions. The island they were approaching stood out from the others on the basis of having a large tower. A lighthouse, from the looks of it, but there had to be more to it than just that. For one thing, it would be pointless to have a lighthouse on a lone island in an area that seemed to have no fog or inclement weather of any sort.Upon arrival it was clear that others shared in the same judgment, because there were at least a handful of other groups on the island. It was hard to tell exactly with different cultivation techniques and how they were spread out seemingly randomly inside the tower. As the group approached the entrance, they began to sense more about the tower.The formation made no attempt to hide itself, and because of previous experience everyone recognized it as something similar to the pressure formations Everheart had. As they entered the base of the tower they felt the energy pressing down on them quite clearly. But unlike Everhearts, the formation was more or less arranged vertically. In short, the pressure seemed to increase as one went up the tower on the spiraling stairs. For an equal amount of effort from the formation, it was somewhat harder and more dangerous than what Everheart had. After all, climbing stairs was harder than walking on flat ground- it was just that neither were generally relevant for cultivators. This chapter's initial release occurred on the n0vell--Bjjn site.Fighting against the pressure while raising ones body higher would actually be a decent test. As for the danger, a cultivator who had completed Body Tempering had little to fear from falling down, or even tumbling down a flight of stairs. They werent so fragile as to be damaged from either, but that was considering normal gravity- or equivalent gravity. With the pressure pushing them downward, if they fell the wrong way they would be facing multiple times the force. It would make little difference until the point someone collapsed, but that made pushing oneself to the limit more risky.As they stood at the bottom of the stairs, the feeling of those up above became more clear. Some familiar techniques were sensed- including members of the Heavenly Lion Sect. One particular sensation stuck out to Anton. Zvonko, he declared.Should we be concerned? Devon asked.Perhaps. I would suggest none of us get too far apart. Anton shook his head, If I didnt know better, I would say that he wouldnt openly attack us. But considering the last incident between us, he clearly is willing to do so.A sore loser. Though he should be weaker now, Devon gestured to his own arm.Perhaps, Anton agreed, But some people grow stronger in adversity. In addition, I didnt achieve that entirely on my own merits. Hes late Spirit Building in cultivation. The Heavenly Lion Sects technique is not poor, so my own abilities arent a match. Previously Lev assisted me, and Zvonko was unable to gather much energy to attack or defend since it was a surprise attack. Im not unconfident in standing against him now, but I certainly wouldnt assume my victory.Velvet looked up the spiral stairs. Whats the purpose of this tower? Just training? Should we expect any sort of rewards?It doesnt seem like a practical defensive formation, Catarina said. I see no indication there was an exception for those who belong. So its purpose was likely training. The gradual nature of the increase makes little sense for anything else. As for rewards she shook her head.Velvet sighed. Right. They would probably be handed out by the sect. But there might instead be something at the top.Its worth the attempt, Hoyt said. And setting up something like this for training is beyond even the Order.Excuse me? Anton raised an eyebrow.Not you, she said flippantly. You have nothing to do with this. This is an internal affair of the Heavenly Lion Sect.Is that so? Anton asked. What a strange place to deal with internal matters. Because just a week ago Im quite certain you all must have been in your actual sect, were you not? Why not handle it then?... shut up, she said unconvincingly. Just stay out of this.Anton covered Nowells mouth when he was about to say something that probably amounted to letting him handle it and it being his own problem. He smiled gently as he looked at the young woman standing in front of him. Let me ask you something. Have you been standing there long?Whats it to you?Anton shrugged, I was just wondering if this is as far as you can go. You seem like you should be able to climb higher. But maybe not.I can, the woman stomped her foot, glaring at Anton. I just have to deal with this.Why? Anton asked. This is a location for training. That is the best use of your time. Yet someone has you standing here, dealing with internal matters... but why? Anton stroked his chin, Its almost as if they are afraid of others growing stronger. Do you think thats why Zvonko ordered you to block the way here?Well, I- she was a better liar than Nowell, but not good enough to avoid Antons focused insight. I dont know what you mean. He cant order me to do anything.A good answer, Anton said. He started walking up the stairs patting her on the head as he went by. Try to remember that one.Buh- you-! she balled up her fists, unsure how to react but clearly aware of how she was outnumbered. She glared at Nowell as he passed, but didnt make a move towards him.After they were quite a bit further on, and out of earshot, Nowell thanked Anton once more. I appreciate your help, really, but you cant always remain with me.Thats true, Anton said. Do you have your own group? Others from the Heavenly Lion Sect you trust?Yes, a few here with me. We didnt think it would matter if we split. But I can meet up with them at the end of the day.Good, Anton said. Though you dont necessarily need them. He suddenly stepped towards Nowell, pushing his shoulder. As he began to fall back, Anton grabbed onto his shirt. Youre used to balancing in normal circumstances, but you havent quite adapted here. You should get some practice in a difficult environment. Anton stepped down to be parallel to him, the steps wide enough they could both stand on the same one somewhat comfortably. You need to be ready for sudden changes, and not just the gradual push of the tower. I think the rest of us could use a bit of practice, too. Since we might end up fighting here.Nowell raised an eyebrow. Sparring? Here?Just light sparring, Anton said. Pushing and grappling, unarmed. I think we could all learn something. He had the Vessel of Insights active, so that if they really did learn something they might get a little bit extra for later. So, on an empty stretch of stairs, two pairs of cultivators began some of the slowest sparring matches for cultivators in mid Spirit Building. They werent exactly slow, but the speed at which they moved was certainly restricted by the pressure. Any connecting blow felt more significant with the threat that they might fall down the stairs- though they very intentionally aligned themselves so that people would be more likely to impact on the outer or inner walls instead of beginning a rolling descent. Though Devon would later suggest they just try rolling on purpose to see how they could protect themselves.
