The Demon Monarch System

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Sitting down outside of the battlefield, Apollo began mediating and circulating the threads of Natural Essence throughout his body in line with the Supreme Demon Body Cultivation Method. ​​

Due to his stamina having reached abysmal levels, he recuperated instead of continuing in the battle. As he did so, he examined Lily's fighting style. In terms of awareness, she was along the lines of Aaron, however, her reserves seemed to be deeper. Spectating the battles, he watched as they came to an end.

Thereafter, Aaron approached Apollo. Scrutinizing his body, Aaron gave an intrigued nod. After his small examination, he caught wind of some things that surprised him.

Albeit vague, he could sense Apollo interacting with the surrounding Natural Essence. However, he was also aware he didn't possess a Dantian. That insinuated he possessed a training method for his body in addition to a Martial Art.

'It seems Apollo has had his stroke of luck. Like I told everyone before, there would come a day that they would wholeheartedly regret the treatment they gave him,' Aaron rubbed his chin before copying Apollo's actions; he initiated his recovery process.

Although he started later; due to the existence of his Dantian, Aaron's recovery speed completely overshadowed Apollo's. However, that was to be expected. After all, the difference between possessing an unsealed Dantian and not was simply incomparable.

The benefits of possessing one were evident. First, one could begin the process of truly cultivating their "Force". In other words, one could begin purifying the Natural Essence they contained. This resulted in a noteworthy jump in the cultivator's power. Be that as it may, it didn't mean Apollo lost out on the purification method.

Secondly, one awakened the ability to store the Natural Essence creating a reserve. Unfortunately, the amount capable of doing so was in a word—underwhelming. To continue, one needed to undergo repeated expansion and condensation of their Dantian—which in its own right was a painful process.

Lastly, said Natural Essence could be utilized to treat injuries at a faster rate. In this world, most healing items were just condensed and purified Natural Essence. Hence, entering the beginning of cultivation—the Zul Warrior Realm was filled with benefits.

Whilst recovering, Apollo took the time to critique the new parameters of his technique—along with him it grew.

Skill Name: Demonic Massacre Wave

Skill Rank: Low Tier Earth

Mastery: 2/4 (Intermediate)

Information: Drawing upon one's savagery, they sacrifice vitality in exchange for large amounts of eradication. The higher the consumption, the higher the damage. However, repeated use results in each subsequent use increasing in expenditure.

Minimum Consumption: 500 Stamina.

Parameters: The parameters of damage is equal to (Zul Count + 1% increase/10 Stamina consumed.) Each subsequent use increases the stamina consumption per one percent by 25%.

Requirements: Strength: 65.0, Vitality: 45.0

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'So that's how so much of its health was consumed. The parameters are stronger than what it used to be. It seems to be linked to the inner physique based on the "vitality" factor,' determined Apollo. Alas, whilst continuing to recover, he noticed movement. Danyul approached Apollo. Kneeling down before him, he waited until Apollo reacted. Opening his eyes, Apollo's gaze calmly interrogated Danyul.

Finally, breaking the silence, Danyul began to question, "Earlier, that move you used twice. That was a Martial Art correct?"

"It was," casually replied Apollo as he stretched out his hand, dropping the Coldiron Staff in Danyul's grasp.

"Where did you find it? I know the family's collection like the back of my hand and we don't possess an art with that type of tyrannical feeling in the ranks," stated Danyul as the Coldiron staff in his possession disappeared. It was clear he possessed some type of storing device.

"Mm. I just so happened to chance upon it and happened to learn it. No more questions, I will not answer them," replied Apollo as he shook his head rising to his feet.

Seeing as the battle was over, it was time to collect the spoils of battle. Peering at their waists, he realized the pouch he received from Irauk was on par with the ones Cynthia, Ashur, and Danyul carried. Because of this, Apollo began to hold questions once again, 'What is your identity and why did you gather youths? Speaking of which, why am I curious about them? Perhaps it's because of this reunion,' mused Apollo as he bent over carcasses.

If he could collect them, then he would monopolize the cores of the Spirit Beasts. Especially so when it came to the Rank 3 Infernal Earth Ape.

Meanwhile, Danyul's gaze remained on the back of Apollo as he remained deep in thought, 'Those earlier strikes felt eerily similar to those of Spirit Beast innate techniques. Is it possible for a human to achieve even further naturalization than what is noted?'

Of course, this didn't ring true for Apollo. Firstly, he wasn't a pure human anymore. Hence, he couldn't be held to their standards. Secondly, the technique felt similar to a Spirit Beast's innate utilization due to one reason—it was of the Demonic attribute; a notion unfamiliar to this world.

Evident from Apollo's cold response. Danyul understood he wouldn't be receiving any more answers. Hence, he approached Cynthia and stood next to her quietly with a contemplative expression. 'Would that be a possibility?'

During the short recovery break, a question came to Apollo's mind. Lifting his head, and glancing around he took note of everyone. From their movements, they seemed to be inching closer to something. "I understand all of you have advanced in your cultivation but what did you truthfully come for? I've realized that you guys seem to be paying attention to something in particular. Care to share?"

"Now tell me, why exactly would we share our operations with you when you're an outcast of the family. Mind your own and continue with your own device," remarked Ashur while hateful gazing upon Apollo.

However, Apollo disregarded his expression. Not only were Ashur's words treated like air, but he also didn't even acknowledge his presence. Turning his head, he instead focused on Cynthia, "Auntie? How about you? Are you able to tell me the true purpose of your journey here?"

"I can tell you, however, if I do so then you have to promise to accompany us," smiled Cynthia while approaching Apollo. It was evident from her aura she sought to spend time with him. During the period of his absence, she had always worried about him.

Releasing a chuckle, Apollo nodded as his interest was piqued. Naturally, that didn't mean he would tag along with open arms. He didn't accept but instead answered in a roundabout way until he knew what he was getting himself into.

"That's not impossible. If it sounds like it could be beneficial, I won't hesitate to join. Although, if I do; you'll need to watch him," replied Apollo while pointing toward the incensed Ashur. His words were completely disregarded and beyond that, Cynthia simply bypassed what he said earlier.

"What?! Are my words air? No, are the Grand Elder's words air? This youth's familial status has already been revoked!" scowled Ashur only earning Cynthia's scorn in return.

"You don't need to worry about him," replied Cynthia as she released her cultivation base further incensing Ashur. However, Apollo on the other hand was attracted to that aura.

'Beyond a Zul Warrior...'