Supreme realm
"We will talk later…..First, let's deal with the root of your problem…"
In the very heart of an unending abyss, amidst a dark world of blankness with occasional flashes. On the precipice of a realm unlike any other where the boundary between reality and illusion was getting blurry, and the very essence of existence seemed to waver in uncertainty.
In the center of such an atmosphere stood Itachi, possessing a gaze that held the weight of his past and the knowledge of the future along with his Sharingan induced eyes, a testament to his true origin from a different world, as he scanned the surreal landscape with a certain sense of purpose.
Beside him stood Xia Qingyue without the ever present veil to hide her divine features, a vision of celestial beauty that transcended mortal understanding. Her features were ethereal, her eyes like pools of infinite wisdom, and her presence exuded an otherworldly grace.
The surroundings of this void realm were shrouded in mystery and foreboding. The very fabric of space seemed to twist and coil, as if it were alive. Stars, like distant galaxies, flickered in and out of existence, casting an eerie glow upon the cosmic canvas.
Amidst the enigmatic backdrop, the presence of a being began to stir. The place where that ancient voice earlier had originated from begin to ripple violently. It was as if the very cosmos itself acknowledged it's existence. A luminous form emerged, radiating a celestial light that bathed the surroundings in an iridescent glow.
The Goddess's beauty was beyond mortal description. Her form shimmered with an ethereal radiance, her eyes held the wisdom of ages, and her presence resonated with the heartbeat of the universe. She was a deity, a true force of nature, and an enigma all at once.
Itachi narrowed his eyes at the otherworldly figure and presence of the being before him. Even in Yun Che's memories there was no appearance of the actual ancestral goddess herself. Also, his Sharingan, known for it's ability to see through illusions, was actually sensing a kind of power that seemed similar to Sharingan pervading through this world and even the Ancestral Goddess herself.
Xia Qingyue too stood in awe to the presence before them. She with her profound beauty and serene demeanor, felt like a mortal goddess in the presence of the cosmic deity before her. She had not known what exactly was going to emerge before but now she was certain that the being before her had to be a divine.
The Ancestral Goddess, her form a convergence of unsurpassed power, regarded them with a gaze that pierced through the fabric of their souls. She was the embodiment of creation and destruction in one, a force that had guided the destinies of this world for eons.
Itachi, his eyes a beacon of clarity in this realm of uncertainty, spoke with a calm that belied the depths of his determination, answering the goddess's initial inquiry: "That means it was as I thought. The reason why he entrusted everything to me was because he finally understood that to truly be free he didn't just need to end that abyssal being's existence…. but you along with it as well. That was the only path to victory."
The Goddess regarded him with eyes that held the wisdom of eons. "I see. You are not the mortal you once were, 'Yun Che'. He had to use Mirror of Samsara this many times to realize what you stated and finally choosing to confront me. The fusion of your souls has granted you insight beyond mortal comprehension. However, he still failed because even if I have lost the physical aspect of my power, it is not the most important aspect of my strength. In fact, I have deliberately given up that measly strength to gain greater control over this realm of wills. What makes beings like the 'abyssal being' that you referred to and me different from the so-called gods of the universe is our ability to affect the physical and spiritual realm with our very will itself. The will to act, to be free, to live, to survive, exists in every being throughout all worlds. This realm of supreme consciousness is beyond the physical and spiritual worlds. It is pervading through all dimensions in the universes. Here, it converges in this supreme realm of wills where mere thoughts can be turned to become reality. That is what makes me undying and eternal. My will always exist in this realm that is above all others even if the physical or spiritual aspect of me is destroyed, my true self in this realm will never cease to exist. What I don't understand is how, you, a mere mortal human could reach this realm of absolute beings, even bringing my own supposed gift for that ungrateful brat here. She, who was granted so many divine physiques by my grace. Why have you brought her here ? It would have taken sometime for me to gain my physical and spiritual prowess to affect your destiny using her. The two of you would have been safer away from my reach in the physical realm until I regained my powers slowly…..But now, huhuhhhh.."
Itachi immediately replied to her mockery: "I see, the reason why you cannot affect the physical aspect of this world right now is due to you giving away that aspect of your power for gaining control over this higher aspect of strength. Something that transcends time, space, dark, light and the five basic elements. Even the law of nothingness merely generates energy out of nothing. Yet, this 'realm of wills' as you termed it, seems capable of turning our imagination into reality. Is that how you created those divine physiques as well? "
Xia Qingyue, her form a vision of celestial beauty, watched the exchange with an unwavering gaze. One thing that she knew was sure of now was that she had been granted some physique by this Goddess's will, which made her feel really uncomfortable.
Itachi continued, "I am aware that Yun Che sealed your physical prowess to prevent you from influencing his destiny or that of Xia Qingyue. But I also know that you possess a will that defies such limitations."
The Goddess's luminous form seemed to shimmer, as if contemplating her response. "That is how everything is created and destroyed everywhere. By turning whatever I will in this realm into reality in the physical realm, that is how all beings, treasures and even worlds that emerge from me came to be. Huh, that worm was really persistent about saving the physical and spiritual aspect of 'his' world, so that he could save his so-called daughter. I have given him everything, hence the physical world atleast needs to provide me with enough spiritual energy to increase my control over this supreme dimension. It was created by me, it is my sanctuary from when I can extract the essence of various souls. And, indeed, mortal. My physical powers along with my soul have been sealed by him in that final confrontation after the latest use of the mirror of samsara but, my consciousness still endures. It has a will that can tear through the very fabric of reality itself. Through that power alone, I changed his destiny as well as this is how she was created. But, knowing that will not change anything, it is time for you to return in the state you were meant to. You will help me revive my connection to the physical realm by gathering and using the Heavenly Profound Treasures' true essence in her presence. So, that I can keep consuming the wills of this world until I can reach the highest state of realm in this supreme world of consciousness. Moreover, the abyssal being still needs to be stopped at the right time after all. I cannot allow it to have my sanctuary. You will once again follow the destiny that has been set for you….both of you."
Itachi's resolve remained unshaken. "Sanctuary….you mean the world where so many souls live is a mere cultivation resource for you to advance yourself in this 'supreme law' as you termed it. There is no remorse or hesitation in your eyes when you speak such despicable words. Destiny should be a choice, and our choices shape the course of our lives. I will not allow anyone to shape it for me….least of all you."
Xia Qingyue's voice echoed in agreement. "We are bound by the threads of fate, but we also possess the power to weave our own destinies."
The Goddess's presence seemed to pulse with a mixture of curiosity and ancient knowledge. "You speak of choices and destiny, mortal. But do you truly comprehend the magnitude of the forces that guide the universe? Do you understand the consequences of your choices?"
Itachi's gaze remained unwavering. "We need to make choices that align with our principles. Now that I finally understand what needs to be done, there is no doubt in my mind about my appearance and purpose in this world. 'He' definitely knew about this aspect of your power. I cannot stop you as Yun Che, however, I am an Uchiha as well. I have tried to run away from that for so long. Once, a long time ago, I used to think about it all the time ,what did it mean to be of the Uchiha clan….to be a true Uchiha…to possess the Sharingan. I have seen so many people, the greatest as well as the worst of my clan, all of them possessed one common trait….that is something that has remained true within me as well, throughout the course of my life. We, of the Uchiha, write our own destiny, our Sharingan too can tear through the very fabric of existence as long as our will remains true to our purpose. That, is what it means to be an Uchiha: to fight for establishing our destiny, even if that has to be against the world itself or….a despicable goddess. "
Xia Qingyue's face radiated an awed sense of serene determination as she listened to Itachi's response.
The Ancestral Goddess regarded Itachi with a sense of contemplation before the an unrelenting pressure came upon the two of them as she said: "You are unlike any mortal I have encountered. Your resolve is unwavering, your will is strong. But know this, mortal, your fancy eyes and unrelenting will are nothing to me…I haven't even bothered to look who----"
'AhhhhhhAhhhhhhhhhhhhh'
However, before she could finish herself the very fabric of reality started tearing itself apart as a primordial screech was heard throughout the expanse of the world.
As soon as Itachi felt the torrent of divine pressure upon him, he immediately used the Mangekyo Sharingan to unleash the Amaterasu upon this realm. As soon as the flames came into contact with this world, it began to burn throughout the realm, spreading at an unrelenting pace as if the fabric of this realm was a very good fuel.
"W-wha-at i-is t-his….How could a mere mortal ...…possess the power to unleash the all consuming flames of devouring even the world of wills.....was this your true plan yun che.....you cleve....I see now he is not from this...…worl-ld.....But-t how-w cou-uld he be more proficient than me in the world of wills...Ahhhhhhhh"
Itachi merely observed as the flames devoured the remains of the ancestral goddess before extinguishing themselves. He had been right, Yun Che must have observed that chakra itself as well as Sharingan contained a more concentrated aspect of this strange supreme power of wills, probably because of the Otsutsuki bloodline even if the physical aspect of it was much weaker. And thus, after confronting Itachi outside the dragon god's cave, Yun Che must have fought with the Ancestral Goddess, sealing the physical aspect of her power so that Itachi could easily erase her existence one and for all using the sharingan in this realm.
Xia Qingyue had done nothing throughout the encounter yet she felt as strange sense of satisfaction as if she had been freed from some chains as she saw this cosmic manipulative entity being consumed by Itachi's black flames.
Amidst the all consuming flames of Amaterasu, the visage of the Ancestral Goddess flickered finally sensing it's unstoppable doom, as it turned towards Itachi with a supposed sneer: "To think a god like me would fall to the likes of you. Still, remember this mortal: new gods always rise from the ashes of the old ones. Now that you have destroyed me, either you will eventually have to take my place and destiny or somebody else will....and believe me that won't be good for you…..Remember…..there is much more to these universes than your eyes can see.....Your eyes can see nothing about the true nature of the world...hmhhmmm….."
With that final remark, the entire turbulent world became still as both the flames as well as her remains disappeared into nothingness.
Itachi kept staring at the same spot, her final foreboding words somewhat repeating in his mind before he felt a soft palm placed in his own, taking his attention away towards the person beside him.
"Who are you reall, Itachi? And, don't try to avoid the question this time....Are you really the same Yun Che?" Xia Qingyue said with some hesitation as well as curiosity in her voice.
"You are right, Qingyue. I am not Yun Che, atleast not entirely. I have his memories and experiences yet I am so much more. But, right from the start, I have always been Itachi to you. My clan once reigned prosperous. However, my incompetency led to their extinction. I have always believed that I did not deserve affection from anyone for the sins I committed yet in the end to move forward we must forgive ourselves. That is the only way to move on. Now, I have a vision, I want to re-establish the Uchiha clan, in a way that it was always meant to be, that can bring honor to their name. Maybe, I will one day be able to answer all your questions, even now, if you are willing to ask me again. However, right now, I want to ask you something instead. In the future, would you be willing to stand beside me and help me establish a 'clan' that can actually inspire and guide this forlorn world as clans were always meant to do. You must be able to understand what I mean when I say beside me, right?"
"Itachi…"Xia Qingyue replied after sometime, her voice a melody that resonated with the very essence of the universe, "You are unlike any person I have ever encountered. Your determination is unyielding, your vision is profound, and your resolve is unwavering. It may seem illogical to not have all the answers yet I feel satisfied. I understand what you mean and that is all I will say to your cryptic question, I can't say anything else right now. I can't bring myself to. Although, I hope one day you will tell me everything about yourself."
Xia Qingyue's eyes held a depth of understanding, and a soft smile graced her lips as she continued "Itachi, our journey is one of uncertainty, and the consequences of our choices are unknown. But in this moment, in the heart of the abyss, I feel the choice of trusting you was the best choice that I could ever make. Hence, now I can also choose to walk this path with you."
Itachi's Sharingan eyes, symbols of his origin from another world, held a mixture of gratitude and affection. He firmly took Xia Qingyue's hand, their gazed merging in a promise that surpassed the cosmic enigma of this realm before both of them disappeared from that world.
….......….
Meanwhile in the arena outside, the audience that had been waiting for the outcome of the battle seemed to sense a strange momentary pause in both of the opponents' stances before they abruptly retracted their domains.
Itachi immediately recovered from his abrupt departure from the world of wills as he quickly adjusted to the physical world. He had done it too many times to be surprised by the phenomenon. However, Xia Qingyue, who had yet to maintain her balance after her activation of domain that was unexpectedly interrupted by Itachi's sharingan, immediately lost her balance as she slightly knelt on the ground, spatting out a mouthful of blood in the air.
"Erghh…I give up…"
Xia Qingyue stood up expressionlessly, a streak of blood slowly flowed out from the corner of his lips…
In front of him, Xia Qingyue's face was snow-white, her eyes were like blue crystals, and her snow-dress gently fluttered… Apart from a few wrinkles and dust on her robes, there was much injuries on her body.
"She was atleast able to somewhat stand her ground against him. She has really improved." Chu Yueli murmured, as she gazed at her sister.
"Indeed, she has improved significantly. Although, it's good that she did not use her 'trump card'. She can always get the chance to fight Itachi later on. Exposing such a matter will not be good for her."Chu Yuechan nodded in understanding and agreement.
"…Who is he, Master, he didn't look a little bit fazed by any of sister Qingyue's strikes. How could this be?" Shui Wushuang and Wu Xuexin both let out cries of shock.
The Sword Discourse Arena fell into dead silence. Everyone was speechless while looking at the abrupt end of the match.
Chu Yuechan's icy eyes were a field of calm. She did not feel that this sort of outcome was the least bit unexpected… She had even warned Xia Qingyue the night before.
After ten breaths of time passed, Ling Wugou finally regained his wits. He glanced at Itachi with an extremely complex gaze, before quickly calming his state of mind and loudly declaring with a vigorous voice: "Xia Qingyue has given up. The winner of this Ranking Tournament's final battle is…Itachi, of the Blue Wind Profound Palace.";
The final battle of the Ranking Tournament had finally closed its curtains.
The tournament had ended, but nobody was able to suppress the amount of shock they had for quite a while. None of the two finalists had been from Heavenly Sword Villa. Every scene had all ruthlessly rammed at their vision and spirit.
Both of the finalists were only seventeen years old, but they had fought a battle that was several classes above their own Profound Realms and had shattered any understanding anyone had in regards to battles.
"Blue Moon Princess, congratulations on obtaining first place." The Sect Master of the Heavenly Sword Villa, said hurriedly his expression somewhat awkward.
Cang Yue responded with a mixture of embarrassment and pride: "The Royal family doesn't have much capability to be able to train such an outstanding talent. I imagine Itachi's fame will spread throughout the world…"
Chu Yueli slightly tightened her eyebrows wanting to reply. The final outcome had let her breathe a huge sigh of relief. This was still her ideal ending considering Itachi's actual power since Xia Qingyue looked completely fine with some nominal injuries.
"...Even though we didn't manage to obtain first place, at least we beat Ling Yun and suppressed Heavenly Sword Villa. At the very least, we've done what we had set out to do." Chu Yueli said while slightly smiling.
Chu Yuechan did not speak. With eyes like ice crystals, nobody could understand what she was thinking of.
......
Blue Wind Imperial Family, the Emperor's Chambers.
Rapid footsteps resounded from outside. Very quickly, his personal eunuch had rushed into the chamber and knelt before him, loudly shouting in a hoarse voice: "Congratulations, Your Majesty! Congratulations! The Ranking Tournament has finally ended today, and our Imperial Family… Imperial Family... has actually gotten first place! First place!"
Cang Wanhe's face became even redder as excitement rushed throughout the entirety of his body: "Good... Good... Good!! Haha… hahahaha… hahahahahahaha…This is the glory my Blue Wind Imperial Family deserves! This is what is truly means to look down upon the world from above! Send an imperial order to all related parties. Say… Say... From today onwards, for the next three years, the resources given to each Profound Palace will increase! Blue Wind Profound Palace's reward will be proclaimed another day! From today onwards, we will prepare the greatest banquet in the Blue Wind Palace's main hall, We want to personally receive Itachi when they return... As for Itachi's reward, I will proclaim it at a later date!"
"This servant has received the order..."
….............
That night, it was exactly midnight, and everything was completely quiet and still.
The window in Itachi's room gently opened, and following after, a cool breeze blew. The figure of a woman, whose skin was snow-white like that of a dream's, quietly appeared in front of Itachi's bed. Although the light was dim, it was still possible to see the blurred figure of her flawless and graceful curves. Yet, the aura emitted out of her body was cold and noble, imperceptibly carrying a resolute form of cold pride.
Just when she was about to call out Itachi's name, at this moment, Itachi, who should have been asleep, suddenly stretched out his right hand, and grabbed onto her hand.
With Che Yuechan's current strength, there were not many in the Blue Wind Empire that could approach her. However, Chu Yuechan felt even with her Tyrant Profound realm power she would not be able to free her palm was thus instantly grabbed just like that.
Che Yuechan's hand was soft and cold, just like a piece of smooth, soft jade. However, her hand was not grabbed by Itachi for that long of a time, as after a moment of confusion and pause, he broke away his grasp.
Chu Yuechan retreated quickly as well, and the aura emitted from her body turned bone-piercing cold.
"Fairy Chu…Forgive me, your presence was a bit unexpected." Itachi calmed said.
"So you were already awake." Chu Yuechan's cold voice contained a hint of emotion. " Qingyue told me that you have already examined her and even treated her. Is that definitely true?"
Itachi stood while taking a seat: "Indeed, she should be fine now. I knew about the problem the very first time I saw her. Her problem must have begun right around the time that we met that person you know right?"
Chu Yuechan immediately became alert: "Was that being involved?"
Itachi shook his head: "No need to worry about him anymore. Or Xia Qingyue. I told you she will be fine now. She is still my wife after all. I will always fulfill my duty towards her."
Chu Yuechan's cold expression turned strange as she heard Itachi's reply turning her silent for a time: "I see. I am here for another matter as well. The meeting that you asked for, Mistress has agreed to it. If you wish, you can come with us to the Frozen Cloud Asgard right now."
Itachi stared at Chu Yuechan's eyes for a moment before agreeing: "Very well. I will come with you after the 'Demon Sealing Ritual'. I won't be going to the Heaven Basin Secret Realm. I will just send a clone. Qingyue shouldn't need to go either. There is nothing of worth there. She should take a rest instead for now."
"Very well then. I will let her stay. We will leave right after the ritual."Chu Yuechan too agreed with Itachi's assessment since Xia Qingyue has just recovered.
After saying that, Che Yuechan turned to leave as she disappeared in a haze of mist.
After Chu Yuechan vanished from Itachi's sight, he heard a sigh in his mind.
"Sigh...Looks like you're unable to attain your goals….....'my goal of living'…Just atleast try to woo her….if that man comes again..." Jasmine said agreived.
"You won't understand that he won't be coming." Itachi tilted his head in confusion and muttered before sighing too.
Xia Qingyue was his wife.
Chu Yuechan was Xia Qingyue's Senior Master, and at the same time, was also partially her teacher. Even if Chu Yuechan truly had feelings for him as an individual, at the same time she was Frozen Cloud Asgard's Fairy of Frozen Beauty. It would not be easy for her to knowingly accept it, atleast not in a normal situation.
Thus, Itachi merely stayed in his courtyard for the next few days.
On the day of the entry to the realm, Itachi merely sent his clone to the Heaven Basin Secret Realm while he meditated in his room waiting for the Ritual day as time passed.