Saiyan in Cultivation world

Chapter 26: Return to the Sect

The golden grasslands slowly gave way to rugged hills and dense forests as Yuto and Kaito journeyed back toward the sect. The world around them seemed alive with a renewed energy, or perhaps it was Yuto's perception that had shifted. With the Guardian's Blessing coursing through him, every sensation felt sharper, every sound clearer.

Kaito walked a few steps behind, his staff slung over his shoulder. "You know, it's going to be interesting explaining all this to the elders. 'Oh, Yuto just went into an ancient trial realm, fought a golden version of himself, and came back glowing like a star.'"

Yuto chuckled, his stride steady despite the soreness lingering in his muscles. "Let's maybe tone it down a little. They don't need every detail."

Kaito smirked. "Sure, but you know how Elder Zhang is. He'll probably think you've unlocked some forbidden technique and start asking you to teach him."

Yuto shook his head, but the thought made him smile. The sect elders were an eccentric bunch, but their teachings had played a significant role in his growth since arriving in this world. Returning to the sect after completing the trials felt like coming full circle.

As they crested a hill, the familiar silhouette of the Rising Sun Sect's main gate came into view. The towering wooden arch was adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and phoenixes, symbols of strength and rebirth. Beyond it, the sprawling complex of training halls, meditation gardens, and dormitories spread out like a small city nestled in the mountains.

Kaito sighed in relief. "Finally. I can already taste the roasted duck from the dining hall."

Yuto glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. "We've been walking for a few hours, not days."

"Details," Kaito replied, grinning. "Anyway, you're the big hero. What's your plan once we're inside?"

Yuto thought for a moment. He had gained so much during the trials—new insights, power, and purpose. But he also knew he couldn't rely solely on his Saiyan abilities. The sect's cultivation techniques were vital to his progress in this world, and he needed to find a way to balance the two.

"I'll report to Elder Yu first," Yuto said. "She's the one who approved my leave for the trials. After that, I'll focus on training and mastering what I've gained."

As they approached the gate, the disciples stationed there straightened, their eyes widening when they recognized Yuto.

"Senior Brother Yuto!" one of them exclaimed, bowing deeply. "You've returned! The sect has been abuzz with rumors about your journey."

Yuto nodded, offering a polite smile. "It's good to be back. Has anything significant happened while I was away?"

The disciple hesitated, glancing at his companion before replying. "There was... an incident in the outer regions. A rogue cultivator attacked one of our resource-gathering teams. Elder Yu has been handling it personally."

Yuto's expression hardened. Rogue cultivators were a constant threat, but hearing that they had attacked the sect's people made his blood boil. "Is everyone safe?"

"Yes," the disciple said quickly. "But Elder Yu has been on edge since then. You may want to tread carefully when you speak with her."

Yuto nodded, thanking the disciple before continuing into the sect grounds with Kaito. The familiar sights and sounds greeted him—the hum of disciples sparring in the training fields, the soft murmur of wind chimes in the meditation gardens, and the faint aroma of incense drifting from the temple.

Kaito stretched, a satisfied grin on his face. "Home sweet home. I'm heading to the dining hall. You know where to find me if you need backup."

Yuto smirked. "Enjoy your feast. I'll catch up with you later."

He made his way toward the Elder's Hall, his thoughts focused on the report he needed to give. Elder Yu was one of the sect's most respected leaders, known for her strict demeanor and sharp intuition. She had been instrumental in guiding Yuto's early cultivation, and he owed her an explanation for his absence.

When he arrived at the hall, the ornate wooden doors were slightly ajar. He knocked lightly before stepping inside.

The interior was spacious, with rows of scrolls and ancient artifacts lining the walls. At the center of the room, Elder Yu sat at a low table, her piercing eyes scanning a report. She looked up as Yuto entered, her expression unreadable.

"Yuto," she said, her tone calm but firm. "You've returned."

He bowed deeply. "Yes, Elder. I completed the trials and have returned to the sect."

Elder Yu studied him for a moment, her gaze sharp. "Your aura is different. Stronger, more refined. Tell me what transpired during your journey."

Yuto recounted the events of the trials, omitting only the most personal details of his confrontation with the Super Saiyan counterpart. He described the challenges, the Guardian, and the blessing he had received. Elder Yu listened intently, her expression softening slightly as he spoke.

When he finished, she nodded thoughtfully. "The Guardian's Blessing is a rare gift, one that few ever attain. You've done well, Yuto. But be warned—such power will draw attention. Not all who hear of it will celebrate your success."

Yuto met her gaze, his resolve unwavering. "I understand, Elder. I'll use this power to strengthen the sect and protect those who rely on us."

Elder Yu's lips curved into a faint smile. "Good. Then your next task is clear. Focus on consolidating your gains. The rogue cultivators in the region have grown bold, and the sect will need every capable disciple to stand against them."

Yuto nodded. "I'll begin training immediately."

As he turned to leave, Elder Yu called after him. "Yuto."

He paused, glancing back.

"You've come far," she said, her voice softer now. "But remember, true strength is not just about power. It's about the wisdom to know when to use it."

Yuto bowed again, her words resonating deeply within him.

As he stepped out of the hall and into the fading light of the evening, Yuto felt a renewed sense of purpose. The trials had been a turning point, but they were just the beginning. The road ahead would be filled with challenges—rogue cultivators, rival sects, and the mysteries of his Saiyan heritage.

But for now, he was home. And with the strength he had gained, he was ready to face whatever came next.