Chapter 64: Knife?

In the Profound Sky Continent, martial artists had honed their skills over centuries, creating an array of techniques, each mastered through the use of specific weapons as mediums. Sects had sprung up to cultivate and pass down these martial arts, allowing individuals to harness their inner power and make their mark on the world. However, the New Moon City was about to witness something entirely unprecedented—a fighting style that defied convention. A martial artist using only their legs had sent shockwaves throughout the city, throwing it into a state of chaos.

Whispers and murmurs rippled through the banquet hall as Yun Che's recent performance left the crowd gaping and bewildered. For someone who was accustomed to being the center of attention, Yun Che pushed aside the usual gazes of adoration, envy, and jealousy that followed him. He had a mission to complete, and he wasn't about to hold back. His ruthless display was a clear message: the New Moon Profound Palace was not to be underestimated. If their adversaries planned to harm them after the banquet, why not give them a taste of their own medicine?

Yun Che was on his way back to Retsu when a shout from behind halted him in his tracks.

"Junior?! Why did you have to be so ruthless? You've crippled disciples from all seven sects. Are you looking to make enemies of us?" Xiao Tiannan's voice boomed from above, his outrage palpable. This was beyond anything he had expected. Defeat in a match he could tolerate, but this level of ruthlessness was unacceptable.

Yun Che didn't let the criticism faze him. He turned around, wearing a mischievous grin. "Huh? Weren't you the one who said anything could happen on the battlefield? If I were the one left crippled by disciples from all seven sects, would you have stopped the match? All you would have done is issue a warning."

"Making enemies of us? Since when does defeating your disciples in a match equate to making enemies?" Yun Che retorted with a hint of mockery. He had read enough about the ways of these people to know that even a fair and square victory wouldn't deter them from seeking revenge. Playing the role of the good guy wouldn't save him either, as it would only invite violence. So, Yun Che had chosen a path where he'd be a good guy when circumstances allowed. With that, he turned his back on the irate sect masters and walked away from the stage, his message loud and clear.

"You... Qin Wuyou, I never thought the juniors of this palace would be so brazen. It's true we took an oath to never interfere with the battles. However, that oath won't hold outside of this banquet. I hope you understand the consequences," warned Xiao Tiannan, his voice laced with a veiled threat of what would transpire once the banquet concluded.

"Hmph, of course, I understand. Even I was taken aback by this unexpected turn of events," replied Qin Wuyou coolly, his expression betraying no hint of concern. "As I mentioned before, he's been with us for only a month, and his origins remain shrouded in mystery. Nevertheless, he is a disciple of the New Moon Profound Palace."

"You... This is far from over," Xiao Tiannan hissed, glaring at Qin Wuyou with malevolent intent. He had extended a modicum of courtesy during the banquet, but now he felt thoroughly humiliated.

"Oh, I'm certain it will be," Qin Wuyou murmured under his breath, his eyes alight with anticipation.

Yun Che's audacious confrontation with Xiao Tiannan sent shockwaves throughout the palace. Never had anyone expected a junior to speak back to a mighty sect master in such a manner. However, amidst the astonishment, a sense of pity began to permeate the crowd. Under the strict laws of the arena, Yun Che was safe for now, but the moment the banquet concluded, it seemed unlikely that the other sect masters would let him off so easily. The brewing storm was far from over.

After Yun Che's audacious performance, the smug and overconfident elites of the seven sects had their arrogance wiped away, replaced by pale expressions of dread. However, their sect masters had secretly given them orders to destroy Retsu and Yun Che once this spectacle was over. The disciples, even the elite sons of the sect masters themselves, were preparing themselves for the upcoming battles, especially the final round as per their masters' requests.

The original intent of the banquet, which was meant for the exchange of pointers and goodwill, had transformed into a battlefield. The tables had turned, and the New Moon Profound Palace was now fighting back, fueling the rage of the sect masters who eagerly awaited the opportunity to dismantle the palace once the banquet concluded.

As the first round concluded, Yun Che left the stage with a mocking smile directed at the seven sects. His turn was over, and it was now Retsu's moment to shine.

"Chee, that brat is far too strong. We couldn't detect any treasures or cultivation suppression. It's impossible for a peak Nascent to possess such strength," remarked Sect Leader Xue from the Burning Heaven Clan.

"Then send two of our mid-stage disciples. If that brat can handle seven, can this flower withstand more?" Xiao Tiannan suggested.

"Young master, I'll take this challenge. Can you hold my Zanpakuto for me?" Retsu asked, handing her Minazuki asauchi to Yun Che.

"Going unarmed as well?" Yun Che accepted the asauchi and slung it over his shoulder. Retsu seemed inspired to follow his method.

"Not quite. These people aren't even worthy of facing my Zanpakuto. I have something else up my sleeve," Retsu replied with a mischievous smile.

"Then I'll take care of Minazuki. Go and have fun, Retsu," Yun Che wished her as she walked confidently to the center of the stage.

Retsu winked at him and even blew a flying kiss, drawing envious looks from the male population in the audience. As Yun Che watched her with a fond expression, he couldn't help but think about the promise of a proper date he still owed her.

Retsu's graceful beauty radiated even more brilliantly as she walked to the center of the stage. The audience held her in high regard since she arrived with Yun Che. A beautiful woman paired with formidable cultivation was a rare sight, and they couldn't help but admire her. Little did they know the true extent of her allure.

Suddenly, disciples from the seven sects made their entrance onto the stage. This time, they had sent mid-stage True Profound Realm warriors, showing their intent to be ruthless. However, instead of sending just seven disciples, they sent fourteen. The audience was left dumbfounded. The New Moon Profound Palace had only sent one representative, and the other sects were responding with sheer numbers. Sending fourteen disciples to deal with Retsu, who was only at the peak of the Nascent Profound Realm, felt like pure suppression and bullying.

Qin Wuyou rose from his seat and faced the seated sect masters, clearly perplexed. "What is the meaning of this?"

"Hmph, your disciple dared to cripple our disciple in front of our faces. It's only fair that we change the rules a little. Why don't we send fourteen this time? Of course, you can allow that Yun boy to enter the stage as well," Xiao Tiannan replied with a venomous tone. It was evident that the seven sects had formed a strong alliance for this occasion. As Qin Wuyou's gaze shifted towards Yun Che, instead of seeing despair, he found Yun Che smiling and appearing relaxed on the sidelines.

"Then, I'll allow it," Qin Wuyou agreed, knowing that Yun Che could participate as well.

"Yun Che, do you wish to enter the stage?" he asked, turning his attention to Yun Che.

"No," Yun Che responded flatly, drawing shocked gazes from the audience. The audience was surprised and puzzled when Yun Che chose not to join Retsu in the arena. They had seen his strength and expected him to help her against fourteen opponents. Some were confused, others concerned, and a few even disappointed. They wondered why he made this decision, and it left them questioning their relationship. Despite the uncertainty, everyone anticipated an intense second match.

"Are you sure?" Qin Wuyou inquired once more.

"Yes, she can handle it," Yun Che affirmed, his expression seemingly indifferent.

"Then, let the second match of the banquet begin," Qin Wuyou declared, his confidence restored.

Elder Ya Yii who was beside him couldn't help but feel a sense of worry as Retsu entered the arena. She had watched Retsu grow and develop her skills, and while she knew Retsu was strong, the odds seemed stacked against her. Elder Ya Yii had seen many battles in her time, and she knew that even the most talented warriors could be overwhelmed by sheer numbers. She had great respect for Retsu's abilities, but she couldn't shake the feeling of concern for her safety.

"Hmph, trying to gang up on my dear Retsu? Let me see the look on your faces when you witness the true meaning of the name 'Unohana Retsu,'" Yun Che thought, facing the sect masters who were snickering from above. The audience couldn't help but wonder why Yun Che wasn't assisting Retsu in this precarious situation.

"Hehe, looks like a flower has entered the stage. Little flower, I am a bit merciful today. Why don't you give up? It's impossible for you to defeat many of us here. On second thought, do you want to join our sect?" The Xiao Sect disciple taunted her.

"Hey, no cutting in line. I was going to offer her," argued another disciple, as they bickered over who would extend the invitation first.

"Thank you for the offer, but I am not going to join any sect anymore. Why don't we get to the fight?" Retsu replied with an indifferent expression.

"Hmph, why don't you draw your weapon, pretty flower? We'll let you exchange a few moves with us," the Xiao Sect disciple continued to mock her.

"*giggle… Then, I shall draw my weapon," Retsu responded, reaching into her robe. However, when she pulled out an object, it wasn't the sword they expected. It was...

A Dagger?

Retsu didn't actually pull out a dagger; it was something smaller. She had drawn a throwing knife, much smaller than a dagger. Retsu had been training with Yachiru, who had once been an expert in the art of daggers and throwing knives. Retsu had honed her skills and discovered knife throwing was one of her abilities as well. So, she kept some as ranged weapons for emergencies. Her throwing knife was a small, well-made weapon designed for accuracy. It had a sharp metal blade, only a few inches long, and a wooden handle with elegant carvings. Despite its size, it was balanced and deadly. Retsu had practiced with it extensively and was highly accurate when throwing it. In the arena, she chose this small but deadly weapon to showcase her combat skills.

The disciples were taken aback. "Little flower, what is the meaning of this?" one of them asked, puzzled by her choice of weapon.

"Oh, this?" Retsu said casually, twirling the small throwing knife in her hand. "I'm not like you, obsessed with hunting rabbits using your full strength. Drawing my sword would be an insult to me. Besides, this is the smallest thing I could find in my robe."

The disciples were angered by her words and her dismissive attitude. They couldn't stand being called weaklings.

"You dare insult us?" one of them retorted, his voice filled with anger.

Retsu's smile remained, but there was a hint of something dangerous in her demeanor. "Yes, pitiful weaklings, indeed."

The disciples were seething with rage. "We allowed you to draw your weapon. Why don't you draw your sword instead of that small thing?"

The gentle curve of Retsu's lips held a hint of mischief as she twirled the tiny knife effortlessly between her fingers. "You see," she began, her voice dripping with feigned innocence, "I don't need to unsheathe my sword against those who can't recognize real strength."

The Xiao Sect disciple's face reddened, his pride pricked by her words. "You dare mock us? I'll have you know that—"

"Shh," Retsu cut him off with a playful smile, wagging her finger. "Talking too much isn't good, especially when you can't back it up."

The atmosphere tensed as anticipation spread through the arena. Onlookers held their breath, awaiting the impending clash between raw aggression and elegant skill.

"Take this and SCRAM!!!" The disciple from the Burning Heaven Clan swung his sword at Retsu, but to everyone's astonishment...

*CLING

The entire arena fell into stunned silence. Retsu hadn't dodged the attack; she had blocked it with her throwing knife. But what was even more unbelievable was that she didn't block the sword with the side of the knife; she used its delicate tip.

"You were saying?," Retsu said with a serene smile to the shocked disciple.

"You… ARRRGHHH!" The disciple continued to swing his sword in a fit of rage, but every strike was effortlessly parried by Retsu using her tiny throwing knife. It was almost comical – her parries were with a mere throwing knife, yet the disciple couldn't land a single blow.

Retsu applied a bit of force and pushed the infuriated disciple away.

*Cling

With a loud crash, the disciple crashed onto the arena floor. He glared at Retsu, who was still smiling down at him.

"Grrr, all of you!! Attack her!!!" The fallen disciple ordered.

With that command, all fourteen disciples lunged at Retsu, their swords swinging. Some of them activated profound skills to enhance their strikes, determined to overwhelm her with sheer numbers and force.

*Cling

*Cling

*Cling

The symphony of clashing swords echoed throughout the arena, leaving the audience in awed silence. Retsu didn't strike back; instead, she gracefully dodged and countered their various sword swings and skills using nothing but a small throwing knife. Her parries were executed effortlessly, her movements akin to flowing water. It was a flawless display that left the sect masters at the top seething with frustration.

"Just where did Qin Wuyou find such incredible warriors? Why is his sect graced with such extraordinary talents?" These thoughts echoed in the minds of the sect masters as they watched in disbelief. Even Qin Wuyou and Cang Yue shared a similar expression. Retsu's mastery of swordplay was unparalleled; no one could parry a sword with only the tip of a throwing knife.

On the sidelines, Yun Che couldn't help but smile. Retsu had achieved this level of skill with her own determination and experience, without even learning Observation Mode and Enhancement Mode yet.

Finally, Retsu leaped to the edge of the arena, looking at her opponents with a wistful smile. "*sigh This is disappointing. I was hoping for a good fight, but all I see are a bunch of sword-wielding amateurs. You've had your chance to attack. Now..."

With a sudden, enchanting smile, Retsu revealed herself to the stunned disciples and declared, "It's my turn now, isn't it?"

The ominous undertone in her voice sent shivers down the spines of the disciples who had so confidently attacked her moments ago.

As if mocking their numbers, Retsu twirled the small throwing knife between her fingers. It was a chilling sight, watching the delicacy with which she handled such a minor weapon. Her eyes, previously filled with amusement, now glinted with determination.

"Did you think sheer numbers would overwhelm me?" Retsu mused outloud.

The surrounding disciples, who moments ago were on the offensive, now hesitated, uncertainty spreading among them. Their earlier confidence was swiftly replaced by a rising sense of unease. Their once coordinated and powerful strikes now seemed feeble against her serene disposition.

From the audience, there were murmurs of admiration. "She's like a tigress surrounded by sheep," one elder whispered. Others nodded in agreement, mesmerized by the display of skill in front of them.

"Chee, you can't defeat all of us. Let's gather our profound skills once more. If we attack together, she won't stand a chance," scoffed the disciple from the Xiao Clan, his confidence unwavering. But before he could finish his sentence, Retsu appeared behind him, so swift and silent that he didn't even have time to blink.

"Ara… you were saying?" Retsu teased, casting a sideways glance at him.

"You…" The disciple's words trailed off, and he crumpled to the floor as if he had fainted. He remained alive but completely paralyzed, his body no longer under his control. The surrounding disciples gasped in shock as they witnessed his sudden fall. They had no idea what Retsu had done, but it was clear that something extraordinary had occurred. All she had done was sever his nerve veins, a move so devastating it would cripple him for the rest of his life.

Retsu's sudden appearance behind the Xiao Clan disciple left the others in a state of shock. One moment, he had been taunting her, and the next, he was on the ground, unable to move. His body had simply given up on him, leaving him paralyzed but still conscious. Gasps of disbelief rippled through the remaining disciples. They couldn't comprehend what had just happened.

To Yun Che, however, it was crystal clear. Retsu had executed a technique known as Senka, or Flash Blossom, one of the advanced techniques used by the Shinigami. Combined with her incredible precision with the small throwing knife, she had severed multiple nerve veins in that disciple's body in the blink of an eye.

As the fallen disciple lay there, unable to even twitch a muscle, the gravity of Retsu's skill sank in for the spectators. Profound veins might have been the focus of most martial artists, but few had considered the vulnerability of nerve veins. The consequences of having these critical pathways severed were dire, as it meant a lifetime of paralysis.

Yun Che watched with admiration from the sidelines. Retsu had not only demonstrated her prowess but also educated the audience about the intricacies of combat. Her actions spoke volumes, and the disciples from the seven sects had no choice but to respect her abilities.

As the remaining disciples contemplated their predicament, Retsu's captivating smile remained, a silent reminder of the power she held. With a calm and confident demeanor, she awaited their next move, fully aware that they were at her mercy.

Retsu's efficiency in crippling the remaining disciples was nothing short of breathtaking. One after another, they fell to the ground, their bodies paralyzed and futures forever altered. She moved with grace and precision, slashing their nerve veins faster than the eye could follow. It was a display of combat mastery that left the audience in awe.

The disciples who had earlier charged at her with bravado were now fleeing as if their lives depended on it. They had witnessed firsthand how she could incapacitate them without even touching them. Panic spread among them as they gathered in groups, unknowingly becoming easy targets.

Retsu, seemingly unburdened by the situation, stretched casually and yawned before addressing the retreating disciples. Her voice carried a tone of boredom as she motioned for them to leave.

But her tranquility was short-lived. With a mere whisper, she invoked her spiritual powers, conjuring a simple but devastating Kido spell. "Way of Destruction #1 - Thrust."

A powerful shockwave erupted from her palm, sending the retreating disciples hurtling through the air like ragdolls. The force of the blast was enough to shatter the nearby wall, leaving them battered and defeated.

The sect masters, now furious and humiliated, were left seething with frustration. Retsu's technique, previously a closely guarded secret, was once again unleashed upon them. Elder Wu Nie, who had lost his grandson in an attempt to extract the technique's secrets, was filled with a burning desire to use the combined might of the seven sects to force it out of her.

The audience watched in stunned silence as Retsu displayed her unparalleled skills. Her precision, speed, and invisible attacks had left them speechless. Slowly but surely, the New Moon Profound Palace disciples began to cheer for their saviors. Two rounds, two victories—twenty-one elite opponents defeated with ease. The palace had regained its lost pride from five years ago, and they were more than eager to express their gratitude to the dynamic duo who had reclaimed it for them.

"Young master!!!!" Retsu shouted as she dashed towards Yun Che. In a graceful leap, she jumped from the stage, landing safely in his arms. He caught her with ease, a proud smile forming on his face.

"How did I do?" Retsu beamed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Her radiant performance had garnered the envy of the audience.

Yun Che affectionately petted her head, his voice filled with pride. "Impressive, I am so proud of you."

A mischievous glint appeared in Retsu's eyes as she looked up at him. "Then I want a reward from you."

Yun Che was momentarily taken aback, not having planned any reward in advance. He quickly recovered and gave an excuse, "Reward?"

Undeterred, Retsu continued, her tone playful, "Hmmm, why don't I suggest one?"

Yun Che, intrigued, asked, "Oh... What is it then? As long as it's within my ability, I can grant it."

Blushing, Retsu made her request, her voice soft and coy, "Then I want a kiss from you."

Yun Che's eyes widened in surprise. He stammered, "I thought I kissed you every morning on your cheeks."

Retsu grinned mischievously, her finger resting on her lips. "Mouuu... I want a kiss right here." She pointed to her lips, her blush deepening.

Yun Che blushed as well, taken aback by the unexpected request. He stammered, his heart racing, "Well, I... I suppose... we can work that out later."

"Ufuu..." Retsu playfully grinned as she observed his reaction. She just couldn't get enough of it.

As this playful exchange unfolded between Yun Che and Retsu, Cang Yue, who had been watching from the sidelines, suddenly felt a wave of discomfort washing over her. She instinctively gripped the lower part of her dress, a subtle gesture that did not escape Yuanba's notice. His concern grew as he observed her unease.

"Senior sister, are you okay?" Yuanba whispered, breaking the mounting suspense.

"I'm fine, Xia," she replied, attempting to keep her voice steady, though the heat in her cheeks betrayed her. Her gaze flitted between Yun Che and Retsu, a complex mix of emotions playing out in her eyes.

"You really have a soft spot for—" Yuanba began, but a quick slap over his mouth from Cang Yue silenced him.

"One more word," she threatened with a playful yet stern glare, "and I'll throw you out of this chamber." Yuanba nodded, his eyes wide with surprise and a bit of fear.

--------------------

"Qin Wuyou, you really want to make an enemy out of all of us," Xiao Tiannan growled loudly.

"Since when is winning making us enemies? Are you really fighting fairly, sect masters?" Qin Wuyou defended himself harshly.

"Good… good…. Now because of those two, none of our disciples dare to go up against them. This time, we'll let the True Profound Realm masters defeat them. Let's see how you fare against our personal disciples."

On the higher tiers, the sect leaders exuded an icy aura, especially Xiao Tiannan. "Qin Wuyou," he sneered, "you really believe those two can take on the best of our best?"

"It was never about one-upmanship," Qin Wuyou retorted calmly. "This was supposed to be an exchange of knowledge, not a blood sport."

Xiao Tiannan laughed coldly. "It became a blood sport the moment your prodigies stepped onto the stage and humiliated our sects. Now, it's only fair that our elites have a go at them. And this time," he leaned forward, emphasizing each word, "killing is allowed."

Gasps and murmurs erupted from the crowd. The rules had changed, and the stakes had risen.

Yun Che and Retsu exchanged glances from below, a glint of determination in their eyes. As the uproar continued around them, they shared an unspoken understanding. Yun Che's fingers grazed the hilt of his Zanpakuto, hinting at the storm that was about to be unleashed.