บท 154: Crystal Island
Upon seeing the inscriptions on the stone table, I finally understood that there was no turning back; these six monkeys were the guardians of this nameless island. Until they were released, the island's control system could not be activated.
To obtain stewardship over the nameless island, I had to grant freedom to these six guardian monkeys. Pressing my hand upon the stone table, a multitude of radiant lights converged towards me, a phenomenon that left Guan Ling utterly astonished.
As the power from the six stone pillars coalesced within me, the sculptures of the six uniquely shaped monkeys vanished from the tops of the pillars.
Having completed the necessary procedure, a crimson card materialized in my hand—a level seven space card. I had acquired tier three management rights over the island, enabling me to seal it away, making it disappear from the sea's surface. Since the island bore no name, I was also granted the authority to bestow one upon it.
"Wang Lin, what on earth have you done? You seem to be growing increasingly enigmatic!"
In response to Guan Ling's inquiries, I offered a brief explanation regarding the space card, which elicited an overwhelming sense of joy from her. She proposed, "How about naming it Crystal Island? My father has two private islands, but he won't let me visit them."
"Crystal Island? That name seems rather feminine, but I have no objections; a name is merely a designation."
The moment I took command of this island, I gained the authority to direct all its inhabitants. Aside from the six guardian monkeys, Crystal Island was home to a considerable number of magical beasts, including the formidable black birds that had attacked Guan Ling and me, as well as a small group of thunderbirds that had not returned to Demon Island after we lured them here.
Additionally, various magical creatures inhabited the surrounding islands, predominantly avian species. Furthermore, within a two-hundred-kilometer radius of Crystal Island, marine magical beasts also became its guardians, some of which were quite powerful. As the first steward of Crystal Island, I could possess it by understanding the information contained within the hidden chamber. However, if others coveted this island, they would need to defeat the six guardian monkeys and overcome me to seize control.
As Guan Ling and I exited the hidden chamber and emerged from the treasure cave, the six uniquely shaped fierce monkeys awaited us at the entrance. The recently engaged Winged Demon Ape and the white giant ape appeared somewhat disheveled, yet they bore no injuries. It seemed that despite their fierce battle, they had held back, not fighting to the death as it appeared.
The imposing monkey king, clad in bronze armor, was the first to approach me, performing an archaic gesture of respect before growling softly, "I am the guardian of this island, Monkey King Ma Wu! How may I serve you, esteemed steward?"
"I wish to seal the island and undergo training for a period. Might you offer guidance on combat techniques?"
The abilities of the six guardian monkeys were recorded on that stone round table, and their origins were shrouded in mystery, seemingly hailing from different continents. Monkey King Ma Wu was renowned for his extraordinary martial prowess, having established a significant legacy on a certain continent, where he was said to have faced few rivals. It would be a considerable understatement to suggest that he should instruct someone like me, who had only recently begun training in martial arts.
As the highest-ranking among the six guardian monkeys, Ma Wu spoke first, "The steward may freely utilize the resources of the island, including commanding us. If you desire to learn martial arts, I would recommend seeking guidance from Master Taiyuan. He is a sage from the Yuan Yuan continent, well-versed in various schools of thought. Although his martial skills may not be the pinnacle, his extensive knowledge far surpasses ours, making him an exceptional teacher. Should you have any questions, feel free to seek my counsel as well."
Though Ma Wu was merely a guardian, his tone was grandiose, his vision lofty, and his spirit indomitable, reflecting the prowess he once wielded across the continent, showing little deference to me as the steward.
"Then I shall rely on Master Taiyuan!"
The ancient-looking spirit monkey, who bore the most human-like demeanor, stood with an air of nonchalance. Even the formidable Monkey King Ma Wu occasionally fidgeted, scratching his ear or similar gestures. Master Taiyuan, standing there with an effortless grace, exuded an aura of scholarly wisdom, reminiscent of a hermit in the mountains, despite the soft fur on his face. Although the records on the stone table only vaguely referenced Master Taiyuan, it was clear that he was far from an ordinary figure, possessing a wealth of knowledge across dozens of disciplines. Thus, I dared not treat him with anything less than the utmost respect.
"The steward is too courteous; this is our duty. How would you like to train?"
"I have gained considerable insight into martial arts from Master Horus on Skull Island. My previous statement was merely a formality; I do not truly require guidance."
On Crystal Island, I intended to enter seclusion, striving to break through the final barrier of my unnamed martial arts technique and enhance my proficiency with other weapons. I excel in dual swordsmanship, which has significant room for improvement, but without formidable opponents, solitary practice yields limited progress.
Having these powerful guardian monkeys as sparring partners would be invaluable. Since Master Taiyuan expressed his willingness to undertake this responsibility, I candidly stated, "The weaknesses in combat techniques can only be revealed through genuine practice; therefore, I humbly request your instruction, Master Taiyuan."
As I assumed the initial stance of the Carefree Cave Heaven Palm, the ancient-looking monkey revealed a flicker of ferocity, mirroring my stance before spinning and unleashing a flurry of kicks, seventeen or eighteen in rapid succession.
This monkey possesses incredible leg techniques! I spread my palms, combining offense and defense, feeling confident in my execution of the moves.
However, after a single exchange, I found three shoe prints on my shoulder, abdomen, and left rib, causing me to blush in embarrassment as I clasped my hands in a gesture of respect.
The monkey's kicks were light and left no pain, yet the disparity in our abilities was evident—not just in technique but also in speed and the deeper mysteries of martial arts. Monkey King Ma Wu bowed and leaped away, while the other four guardian monkeys dispersed. The Winged Demon Ape and the white giant ape still exchanged glances of disdain, baring their teeth and posturing, but such matters were beyond my concern.
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