[41] Zone Strife II

Zone Strife, Central Continent

Ash Costatine ventured into this region following an instinct within him. As he first entered the area, known for its warring kingdoms, he encountered a landscape reminiscent of East Asian geography—drenched with lakes and rivers and expansive forests.

In this region, danger lurked at every corner. Savage monsters roamed freely, and the kingdoms seemed unfriendly due to the ongoing strife. Nevertheless, when Ash initially traversed a rugged ravine, he inadvertently crossed paths with the Kingdom of Broze. The encounter was initially awkward and fraught with tension.

However, the situation shifted when Ash demonstrated his ability to communicate in their language. The locals, who had been initially suspicious and wary, began to soften. They decided to take Ash to their small town as a gesture of appreciation for his linguistic skills.

Upon entering the Kingdom of Broze, Ash was met with sceptical gazes from the townsfolk. The tents they used were akin to Mongolian yurts—round structures with roofs made of animal hides covered by layers of straw. Although the village had a primitive atmosphere, there was a warmth emanating from these structures.

It was Ash's first encounter with a city-state of this nature. Though referred to as a kingdom, he wondered if it truly was.

At the outset of his arrival, Ash did not receive a warm welcome. Many of the townsfolk regarded him with disdain and suspicion. Sharp glances and whispers among them revealed how out of place Ash seemed. Every step he took was met with scrutinising eyes and murmurs of discontent.

As Ash delved deeper into the town, the man guiding him—seemingly of modest appearance yet full of respect—grew increasingly nervous. Cautiously, he led Ash to the king's residence, the largest tent among the others, surrounded by bonfires and grazing sheep.

Upon entering the area, the man cleared his throat and announced their arrival. "My apologies, my King, I have brought an outsider to the city!"

Inside the rather large tent, adorned with various tribal symbols, stood a man with a commanding presence. He had untidy, dirty blonde hair and striking blue eyes that stood out against his rugged face. His muscular body was marked by numerous battle scars, signifying a life of struggle.

The chieftain, appearing as a seasoned warrior, scrutinised Ash with a penetrating gaze. Every movement and detail of his appearance reflected the seriousness with which he evaluated anyone entering his domain. His deep, authoritative voice carried weight as he addressed Ash, "You do know that our kingdom is not friendly towards outsiders, don't you?"

The man who had brought Ash looked increasingly anxious, clearly feeling the pressure from the chieftain's gaze. He nodded with fear, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Ash, maintaining a calm and confident demeanor, met the chieftain's gaze with respect. He understood that to gain trust and acceptance, he needed to approach this situation with wisdom and empathy.

"Please don't be too harsh on him. I insisted he bring me here. I apologise if my arrival has caused discomfort, King Broze," Ash said politely, keeping his tone warm and understanding.

The chieftain observed Ash closely, stroking his rough jaw and considering every word spoken. After a moment, he furrowed his brow and spoke, "Hmm... You seem to possess commendable manners. However, manners alone are not enough to ensure your safety here. If you wish to earn my recognition, you must understand and follow our rules!"

Ash nodded, indicating his understanding, though his eyes still reflected surprise. "Then, what must I do to comply with these rules?"

The chieftain, his face now displaying a cynical smile, responded, "You must fight one of our warriors. Indeed, fight me!"

The chieftain's gaze was filled with challenge as the atmosphere in the tent grew even tenser.

"Is that so?" Ash tilted his head in curiosity.

-Ash Costatine-

I see now. This kingdom appears to have extreme traditions—forcing travellers like me to engage in combat with the king himself. It seems this chieftain wants to demonstrate his strength in front of an outsider, a display of honour and power.

I stood firm before the towering man, over 190 cm tall, his body covered in scars reflecting numerous battles, and his bright blue eyes staring intensely with a somewhat harsh manner. Fatigue was setting in, but I remained focused.

It seemed that before the fight began, there was a specific ritual to follow. As explained by the chieftain, this tribe held deep-rooted customs and traditions. Amidst the tense and ritualistic atmosphere, I needed to adhere to their rules.

I glanced at Gungnir, my spear. "Alright, Gungnir, it's time to show your prowess," I said inwardly. With careful movements, I manoeuvred my spear, swinging it gently to gauge its balance and strength. Then, I raised it high, ready to face the chieftain, who was now prepared with his black longsword.

The chieftain regarded me with confidence. "Are you ready?" His voice trembled with authority and a hint of excitement.

I nodded, meeting his gaze with determination. "I am ready. Let us see what you can show," I replied with a confident tone, bracing myself for the fight that would determine my acceptance and recognition in this tribe.

The atmosphere around us grew more intense as the townsfolk gathered around the arena, observing every move with keen interest. The scent of earth and dust mixed with the mounting competitive spirit, creating a charged and dramatic ambience.

As the drums were struck, signalling the start of this honourable duel, the tension escalated. The chieftain began to amass Touki, an aura of power and rage emanating from him, making him appear as a fierce beast ready to destroy. With a piercing gaze and a stance brimming with confidence, he displayed a roaring fighting spirit.

I was equally prepared. Channeling sacred energy within me, I showcased the Heaven Glory Spear Technique. With graceful yet powerful movements, my spear shone with a divine light from each swing.

Suddenly, the chieftain let out a roar that reverberated across the arena. "AHHHHHHHHHH!" The deafening roar was like the cry of a celestial beast shaking the night sky. The sound pressed down upon me, creating an invisible pressure.

Without allowing me a moment to breathe, the chieftain charged towards me with impressive speed. His massive sword was swung with brutal force, each strike imbued with determination and a desire to destroy. The relentless barrage of attacks forced me to stay alert and ready to counter.

With heightened speed and trained reflexes, I positioned myself carefully to meet the incoming assault. The Heaven Glory Spear Technique was primed for execution, and I was determined to showcase my prowess in this battle.

As our weapons clashed, sparks flew and spread around the arena. The intense duel heightened the atmosphere. The chieftain's brutal swings, though erratic, were laden with power, making it challenging to anticipate his moves. His large sword, charged with Touki, delivered destructive force with each attack, making prediction nearly impossible.

In such circumstances, the pressure was immense. "Damn, since I immigrated to this world, this is the first time I've faced such a formidable opponent!" I thought, frustrated. The chieftain was truly testing my limits, and I had to remain focused and alert to endure and retaliate.

As we were forced apart, I wasted no time in launching my technique. With full concentration, I summoned the power within me.

Heaven Glory Spear Technique

Third Form - Divine Soaring Spear

This technique represented the pinnacle of all my training and understanding of my spear. I swung Gungnir with flowing, calculated movements, creating a beautiful and deadly pattern. Each step, sweep, and thrust was measured precisely, as if I were dancing with the weapon in hand.

Gungnir soared with extraordinary speed and power, delivering a series of perfectly coordinated strikes. The sacred energy coursing through my spear made it shine brightly, adding a mystical dimension to every motion.

Meanwhile, the chieftain sensed the approaching danger. With incredibly swift reflexes, he focused all his Touki into his black sword, creating a terrifying aura around him.

However, the speed and power of the Divine Soaring Spear technique were not to be underestimated. I delivered the final thrust, combining all my strength and sacred energy. Gungnir flew like an arrow from a bow, cutting through the air with splitting force.

THUD!

The technique struck the chieftain with tremendous force. His body was violently jolted by the impact of the blow, and instantly all the energy he had gathered in his sword dissipated, causing him to stagger backward.

The chieftain fell, stunned by the power of the attack he had never experienced before. Observing the awe and respect from the onlookers, I looked down at the chieftain lying on the ground.

At this moment, the villagers were silent, unsure of what to say. Respect and admiration were clearly etched on their faces. I lowered Gungnir and stood there with a sense of satisfaction, yet remaining cautious, ready for whatever might come next.

The chieftain slowly rose with a face full of respect and astonishment. "You... you are truly remarkable. No one has ever presented us with such a challenge before."

I nodded respectfully. "Thank you, chieftain." Accepting defeat graciously, the chieftain raised his hand, signalling everyone to approach. "Very well, we will give you a chance. But know that our tribe holds firmly to tradition and honour. Respect that, and you will be accepted."

King Broze responded with a warm reception, and this duel had paved the way for mutual recognition.