Chapter 39 - 38: Triple Convergence
"Whoever you are, whatever your objectives, you’ve chosen the wrong target and the wrong methods. Let me demonstrate why the Hwagyeong Sword Sect is considered the pinnacle of fire-based cultivation."
Juhwa Gyeongcheol’s declaration echoed across the eastern courtyard as his flames began to intensify beyond anything the Alpha copies had witnessed during their initial observations. What had started as controlled demonstrations was rapidly escalating into something that threatened to consume the entire area.
The young masters are taking this more seriously than I anticipated. Their responses are moving from demonstration level to genuine combat level. The copies need to match that intensity if they want to observe the complete technique sets.
Through his mental connection with the Alpha Group, Jinmu could sense their growing concern about the escalating situation. The fire techniques being displayed were operating at a level of sophistication that made their own deception scenarios appear crude by comparison.
"Alpha Group leader to base," came the urgent report. "Target is initiating what appears to be a comprehensive fire cultivation sequence. The heat levels are becoming dangerous for sustained observation."
They need to be able to withstand whatever the young masters throw at them if they’re going to successfully copy the complete techniques. It’s time to remove the power limitations I’ve been maintaining.
"All groups, authorization granted for Peak Master level capabilities," Jinmu transmitted to all thirty-six copies simultaneously. "Use whatever power is necessary to maintain your scenarios and gather complete technique intelligence."
The effect was immediate and dramatic. Every copy in the field suddenly gained access to the full Peak Master level strength that Jinmu possessed, transforming them from skilled but limited operatives into formidable martial artists capable of matching the young masters in direct confrontation.
In the eastern courtyard, the Alpha copies immediately shifted their approach from subtle deception to genuine challenge. Their fire-based attacks became more sophisticated and dangerous, creating the kind of threat that would require Juhwa Gyeongcheol to use his most advanced techniques.
"Now you’re showing your true capabilities," Juhwa Gyeongcheol observed as the Alpha copies began demonstrating Peak Master level fire manipulation. "This explains the coordinated approach and the confidence to threaten sacred pavilion resources."
His own cultivation responded to the elevated threat level by reaching depths that casual practice never accessed. The air around him began to shimmer with heat distortions as his body became a nexus for increasingly intense fire techniques.
"Behold the complete art of the Hwagyeong Sword Sect," he declared, his voice carrying clearly despite the roar of flames beginning to surround him. "CRIMSON PHOENIX INFERNO ARTS."