As the sun began its gradual descent beyond the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue across the landscape, its radiant beams encountered an unexpected adversary - a dense and billowing cloud of dust. The army of Asuras charged relentlessly across the expansive plains, their thunderous gallop and fierce determination raising a tumultuous storm of earth and debris. The swirling dust engulfed them like a shroud, casting an eerie and foreboding veil over their advance.

Within this tempestuous haze, the sun's light struggled to pierce through, its brilliance diffused by the swirling particles into a dim and ethereal glow. As the dust hung heavily in the air, it created an almost surreal tableau, as if the world itself were holding its breath in anticipation.

Amidst this chaotic scene, the commander of the Asura forces raised his hand in a commanding gesture. A signal that resonated instantly through the ranks, spreading like wildfire from rider to rider. With remarkable discipline, the galloping horses came to an abrupt stop, their powerful hooves kicking up one final cloud of debris before settling into an uneasy stillness.

The commander's gaze was fixed upon a distant point, obscured by the haze and dust. Gradually, as the particles began to settle, a structure emerged from the mists - the academy. Its towering walls and majestic spires stood as a testament to knowledge and defiance in the face of encroaching darkness.

In the midst of this desolate plain, the academy seemed like a solitary island of resistance, a beacon that dared to challenge the encroaching shadow. The commander's steely gaze bore into the heart of the academy, his intent clear even from this distance. He cast his discerning gaze upon the formidable walls and bastions of the academy, its defence mechanisms poised and ready, a testament to the steadfastness of its inhabitants.

"Since we have lost the element of surprise," he intoned, his words carrying a mixture of caution and determination, "we shall make an encampment here tonight."

The sun, its radiance waning, cast a dim and resolute light upon the scene as the Asura forces came to a halt, their previous momentum subdued by the need to regroup and reconsider their approach. Their intention to launch a swift and unforeseen assault had been foiled, and now they faced a different challenge — the fortified walls of the academy.

"Looks like the news of us got leaked, probably by the man lurking in the desert," the commander mused aloud, his voice a blend of calculation and mild annoyance. His perceptive mind assessed the situation, deducing that their presence had been anticipated. "Hmm! I am gonna rest for now, wake me up when the preparations are complete."

The shadows seemed to claim his form as he retreated into their embrace, his figure becoming enshrouded as if in communion with the very darkness that surrounded him. His final command was issued from within this obscurity, his authority unwavering.

"And while you are at it," his words resonated with an almost detached air, "bring down the statue — It’s blocking my view. I want to see the sun god setting down — to the murky spring."

The Asura commander's will was executed promptly, his subordinates moving with alacrity to erect their encampment, fortify their positions, and adhere to their leader's instructions. The sun, now a mere sliver above the horizon, cast elongated shadows across the plains, accentuating the tension that lingered in the air. As the preparations unfolded, the encroaching dusk seemed to embrace the scene, setting the stage for a night of anticipation and uncertainty in the face of an imminent siege.

Atop the imposing first tower of the academy,

The war room buzzed with officers engrossed in discussions and deliberations. Among the officers, Damon Zaccai, a commanding presence, led the discourse, delving deep into strategic considerations.

Interrupting the intense atmosphere, an officer stepped forward, bearing news demanding immediate attention. Zaccai, his attention preoccupied with ongoing discussions, brushed off the interruption, his voice tinged with impatience as he tersely responded, "Go away, if it’s not urgent."

Persisting despite the brusque reception, the officer clarified, "I don’t know if it is urgent or not."

Exasperation edged Zaccai's voice, "Oh! Come out with it, and don’t waste my time."

The officer finally delivered the news, "Sir, I think there is someone inside the closed cultivation room."

Startled by the unexpected revelation, Zaccai's demeanour shifted, and he demanded further clarification. "What?! Do you think it’s an Asura spy?"

The officer responded with discernment, "I don’t think it’s a spy but a student."

Incredulity coloured Zaccai's response, "A student! What rubbish are you talking about; All the students have been evacuated. How can there be one left?"

The officer explained, relying on a combination of log data and sensed energy levels, "Based on the log and the energy level that I can sense, I think someone is about to break through to the first chakra."

Perplexed by the implications, Zaccai mused aloud, "An awakening happening so early for a first-year? Is the boy from the Tudor clan? The tower has high hopes for him. But why didn’t we receive any report regarding this from a person in charge?"

The officer clarified, "I don’t think this one is from the Tudor clan. According to the log, the name is Ethan Throne, the notorious."

The revelation caught Zaccai's attention, sparking his curiosity. He prodded for more details, "Ethan?! Wasn’t he just a C grade talent? And what is it him being notorious?"

In response, the officer unfolded a series of notable accomplishments that had thrust Ethan into the spotlight, including surviving the soul refining pill, defeating A graders in duels, and even killing an heir of the Brandwache clan in the hunting contest; maybe the reason why the Brandwache clan hasn’t been responding to our calls. Zaccai's realization of the significance of these deeds was palpable, and he mused on their implications. "Hmm, it’s in the nature of hyenas to wait and watch. The second, our victory over the Asuras is ensured—they will come answering our calls."

As the conversation circled back to Ethan, Zaccai's assessment took on a hint of admiration and understanding. "And about this Ethan, I knew he was different the moment I laid my eyes on him; but this is remarkable. Ha! I now understand why they left him there. Post a guard outside, just in case, and inform me the moment he comes out. Now hurry up; we have too much on our plate."

Inside the cultivation room.

Amidst the fog of pain and disorientation, Yuvan's consciousness struggled to resurface. Waves of agony surged through his being, originating from the very core of his existence. The sensation was akin to an impending explosion, an intense pressure that seemed poised to rupture him from within.

Amid this turmoil, Yuvan summoned his inner resolve, mastering his panic and finding a semblance of control. He recognized that this excruciating sensation was an inevitable consequence of attempting to harness energy beyond his capacity. Soothing his racing thoughts, he focused on self-composure and introspection.

Delving into the depths of his being, Yuvan sought not only to ascertain the dormant snake's state but also to identify the enigmatic presence that had remained shrouded. The voice, emerging distinctly now, beckoned to him, its words an unmistakable invitation.

"Took you long enough!"

This encounter differed from the past, marked by the voice's manifestation, recognizable by the silhouette of a black horn at the pinnacle of the snake's head, pulsating with a peculiar energy.

"If it wasn’t for your tantra binding me, I would have killed you the moment you dragged me inside—you otherworldly demon."

The voice revealed itself to be that of Alha Udal, a warrior whose pride and arrogance were palpable even in the depths of Yuvan's consciousness. The flood of memories Yuvan had experienced from Udal's life provided context for this confrontation, and Yuvan braced himself for the expected stand-off with the warrior's essence.

Amidst the tumultuous currents of pain and consciousness, Yuvan confronted Alha Udal's essence with a direct and sensitive question, seeking to engage the warrior's motivations head-on.

"Don’t you want to get revenge against the Asuras for what he did to you and your clan?"

Yuvan chose not to waste time on pleasantries and instead opted for a bold approach, knowing the sensitivity of the topic he was addressing. Udal's response was measured, a mocking tone threading through his words—a reaction that Yuvan had anticipated.

“A boy who hasn’t even reached his first awakening boasts about killing an Asura commander. Hmmm!”

Udal's scepticism was evident, doubting the credibility of Yuvan's claim, and he seemed unperturbed by Yuvan's directness. To Udal, Yuvan was a youth who had not yet reached a level of power that would merit his attention. The fact that Yuvan had performed the Ārōhī vidhi, a significant and risky feat, didn't sway Udal's assessment.

“If Quintus Servilius is still alive, he would be a general by now. So, you are telling me you would take out an Asura General?”

Udal's intention was clear: he aimed to challenge Yuvan's determination by raising doubts about his ability to confront and defeat a high-ranking Asura like Quintus Servilius. Through this tactic, Udal sought to gain the upper hand in their interaction, presenting himself as someone who could mentor and empower Yuvan for his revenge, while simultaneously attempting to assert control over Yuvan's mind and body.

"Why would I go after an Asura and a general at that—just to please you? To satisfy some black ball of condensed energy, barely surviving inside my body, which hasn’t even reached the first chakra."

Yuvan's words were not what Alha Udal had anticipated, striking a chord deep within the warrior's spirit. The confrontation had escalated beyond Udal's expectations, leading him to reassess his stance in the face of Yuvan's resolute determination.

“You..?!”Udal's response was one of shock and disbelief, a reaction that underscored the unanticipated depth of Yuvan's commitment.

“Yes, me. Accept it; this is your only chance for vengeance. So, consider my offer thoroughly on how you want to move forward with our relationship. Because it will be the second and last time, you will be wasting your chance bestowed down by the heavens for your petty pride—failing your people yet again."

Yuvan's words carried weight, compelling Udal to confront his own pride and the potential consequences of his choices. The proposition before him was clear: to embrace this unconventional partnership and channel his desire for revenge through Yuvan's actions.

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"If I were in your stead, I would have joined the faction where I could have grown stronger, fulfilled my potential, achieved my desires, and become strong enough to dictate the rules," Yuvan emphasized the potential power and transformation that could arise from aligning with him. He painted a vivid contrast between the dormant legend Udal had become and the impactful figure he could be once again.

"Without me, what are you? Just a legend of the past, a forgotten hero, known for facing a horde of Asuras alone—to protect his clan, his family, his world."

The stark reality of Udal's current state was laid bare, highlighting the potential for him to transcend his current situation and rewrite his story.

"Do you want to remain just a whitewashed historical figure created by those who betrayed you? Or do you want to grab this opportunity to correct the injustice done to you and your people? Because when I slay your enemies, it will be like you avenging your people. You are bringing Moksha to those poor, tragic souls; who died cursing you. With me, at least you have a chance."

Yuvan's words carried a compelling promise—a chance to bring solace to the souls of those Udal had lost. The idea that their revenge could be enacted through Yuvan's actions was a concept that began to take root in Udal's mind.

After a prolonged silence that bore the weight of contemplation, Udal yielded to the force of Yuvan's argument and his own desire for vengeance.

"For you to have this demonic tantra and choose this dagger as sacrifice, I consider this as a divine intervention. For my people, I will gladly accept this disgrace of forming a fellowship with you." The warrior's internal monologue painted a picture of his past achievements and the greatness he had once embodied, contrasting it with the present reality.

“I’m glad you could finally recognize the mutual benefit," Yuvan remarked.

“Don’t test my patience, boy!” Udal retorted, his anger simmering beneath the surface.

"Mutual benefit," he dares to mention. He utterly fails to grasp my identity and significance. I am the Dark Prince, the singular figure for which the entire continent stood vigilant. I represented a level of genius that emerges but once in a million years, surpassing even the most exceptional minds. My existence was synonymous with being the alpha—the paragon of warriors; they bestowed upon me the honorific of Glaive Lord. I stand as a prodigious innovator, birthing a plethora of tantras, formations, and alchemical marvels. I plunged into the unexplored, sculpting my own path: the ātatipada, the very essence of the dark path...

“Does the past matter? You would know this more than anyone else,” Yuvan interjected. “What did you achieve, with all your glorified past? Accept the reality; what could have, should have, doesn’t matter. What matters is the result. Help me, and I will get your results."

Udal's internal turmoil was laid bare, as Yuvan's words dug deep into his ego and forced him to confront the gap between his past aspirations and his current circumstances. The enigmatic dark energy that had entered his life through Yuvan's actions had reshaped his destiny, demanding a shift in his perspective.

"I will, but you will never be my master," Udal responded with a mixture of defiance and acquiescence, reaffirming his individuality even as he agreed to collaborate with Yuvan.

“I know, Now help me breakthrough.” With this reluctant agreement, Udal embarked on a path that held the promise of vengeance and redemption, bound by the unexpected alliance with Yuvan and the enigmatic power he wielded.

"Sir, we find ourselves encircled. Every entrance has been blocked by enemy encampments. The super forces have declined to deploy their main army, citing the risk of Asuras targeting them. They've dispatched only a small faction to aid us, but they're unable to reach us due to the encampments. And as for the Brandwache clan, they remain unresponsive," reported an officer, reading from a report.

Zaccai sighed, contemplating the impending catastrophe. "Who would have anticipated that the Asuras could amass such an immense coalition? Elves, dwarves, orcs, beastmen—even the exotic monsters we've only heard of," he mused aloud. He then inquired about Brahma.

"No news as of yet, sir. However, more Asuras are joining the encampments, and they've begun desecrating the statue of the First Sword Saint."

"We must endure this humiliation," Zaccai replied, his face etched with determination. "It won't be long before the tower master emerges from closed cultivation. For now, keep a vigilant eye on the encampments and update me promptly on any developments."

"Yes, sir."

Examining the encampments from atop the first tower, Zaccai mulled over the situation. He couldn't shake off the feeling that the Asuras' assault was more than mere coincidence—hitting them precisely when the tower master was secluded in cultivation.

"Yeah!" a sudden roar erupted from the enemy camp as they brought down the head of the First Sword Saint.

Zaccai's officer voiced concern. "Sir, this is becoming intolerable. How much longer must we bear such humiliation? Our troops are losing their morale. We should strike back—before it's too late."

Zaccai empathized but maintained his resolve. "I understand your sentiment, but that's exactly what our adversaries want—to provoke a reaction and catch us off guard. Our duty is to uphold discipline during these trying times and await guidance from our superiors. Right now, our focus should be on fortifying our defences. We're still uncertain about their ultimate objective."

"Do you not believe their aim is to destroy the academy?"

Zaccai shook his head thoughtfully. "It doesn't appear that way. This seems like a meticulously devised plan that has been centuries in the making. We were caught off guard, allowed complacency to cloud our judgement, and now we're paying the price for underestimating the significance of Agustin's report. I can only hope that the old man is still alive."

In the vast desert, far removed from the academy,

Two men lay flat on their stomachs, hidden from view, meticulously observing the movements of their enemies. One of them, his voice a hushed urgency, spoke, "Acharyasri, we should engage the enemy and dismantle the formation they're guarding. Employing 'wait and see' tactics might not be wise, as we remain oblivious to their objective."

Agustin, who had traversed the barren expanse for the past six months with little to show for it, managed to detect the enemy's activities only because the Asuras were advancing to the next stage of their scheme—activating the hidden formation. Swiftly reaching out to his Acharyasri—confiding only in him— they uncovered the Asuras' impending assault on the academy, thereby thwarting their surprise attack. Yet, they remained uninformed about the nature of the formation the Asuras guarded in the heart of the desert.

"You're right, Agustin. However, we must exercise caution and not act rashly. The academy has been encircled, and cut off from reinforcements. We are the sole individuals acquainted with this concealed formation and the only ones capable of dismantling it. While we have limited time, we must devise a strategy to eliminate the Asura guards without raising alarm, incapacitate the formation's master, and neutralize the others. Our margin for failure is non-existent."

"Acharyasri, I've already devised a plan. I intend to harness the desert sand, forging blades imbued with my mana through my tantra. Targeting the enemies' central nervous systems, my tantra will activate upon my qi connecting with their energy network, initiating internal and external petrification. Executing them silently should avert suspicion. Employing your illusionary tantra, we can shroud the entrance, rendering it virtually invisible. Then, using my bhūmipada (earth path) sensory tantra, I can detect internal presence while you deploy your sattvapada (wisdom path) interrogative methods on the guards. Following that, we move in for the kill and attempt to subdue the formation's master."

"Hmm. Your plan seems promising. It's impressive that you've devised such a strategy in such a brief span. Commence when you're prepared." A note of pride entered his voice as he spoke of his student.

"As you command, Acharyasri."

"No need for formalities any longer; we've transcended the student-master relationship. Address me by my name; we're partners now."

"Still, you'll always be my master, Acharyasri."

“Hopeless as always! You lead the way."

In the valley below, the Asura guards maintained their patrols around the cave entrance, their vigilance heightened. Unbeknownst to them, the illusionary tantra they had established was compromised. Abruptly, the wind started to whip up the sand around them, slightly obscuring their vision. Agustin focused his Qi, initiating his bhūmipada (earth path) tantra; within the swirling sands, delicate blades formed as though by the hand of nature itself. These formations appeared as an unremarkable phenomenon and didn't arouse the guards' suspicion. Unconcerned by the subtle Qi fluctuations around them, the guards dismissed them as mere manifestations of the illusionary tantra's effects.

The slender blades, guided by Agustin's precise control, slipped through the guards' defences, piercing the back of their necks and targeting their spines. The guards, though gravely wounded, remained barely alive. In harmony with Agustin's actions, Brahma executed a dyotapada (light path) (illusionary) Jala-tantra. "This should suffice unless a commander happens upon this scene," he relayed to his ex-student.

"Acharyasri, you proceed with your interrogation. I will attempt to ascertain what lies within using my bhūmipada (earth path) saṃsparśa-tantra (detection)," Agustin informed Brahma. He focused his Qi into the earth, establishing a connection with it. Allowing his mana to meld with the natural earth's Qi, he directed this combined energy towards the cave's interior. Within his mind, he constructed a thermal-like image of the expansive cave. However, his sensory perception didn't detect any signs of the life force within his field of vision. Deciding to delve deeper, Agustin extended his awareness thousands of feet below, but he began to experience strain.

His efforts to maintain his Qi synchronization with the earth's Qi over such a vast distance were demanding. As he pushed further, he sensed an earth vein, prompting him to discontinue his tantra to prevent unnecessary entanglement with the vein's energy. He reported his findings to Brahma, his voice tinged with a mix of relief and weariness.

“What did you uncover that have you looking so exhausted?” they exchanged thoughts telepathically.

Nothing significant! Other than the fact that the formation generates the green fog and there are a few traps in place, there's very little to report.

Nothing? After investing so much time?

It's precisely that lack of information that's more unsettling.

I see. I'm in the same situation here with these lower-ranking guards. They're as clueless as we are.

Have you discovered anything we can capitalize on?

Inside the cave, there's an expansive area that extends into the earth trench. It appears they're utilizing the earth vein as a component of their formation. Additionally, the green fog isn't a simple matter; we should analyse it thoroughly before proceeding.

"As it stands, the second phase of our plan requires significant improvisation," Brahma remarked, his hand gently massaging his forehead.

Indeed, Acharyasri. Considerable improvisation is necessary.

Inside the closed cultivation room,

"Let's see, an akṣapada (soul path) tantra, hmm. Ātmadāsatā-tantra, a variant of dāsīkṛpada (enslavement path) tantra; it grants the ability to enslave the souls of those you've killed. Akṣapada is an ancient, extinct path, and you possess one of its higher-ranked tantras. The heavens seem to have favoured you in this regard, aside from your appearance, your childhood, and your past experiences... Nah! Judging from your life, it seems you're better at stealing other people's blessings," Alha Udal remarked.

"Shall we get on with it? Haven't you analysed enough?" Yuvan's voice interrupted, pulling Udal's attention.

You see, Yuvan, or should I call you Ethan... whatever. The process of the first awakening is, how should I put it, very special. You should strive to acquire as much knowledge as possible because you only get to question the heavens like this during your sixth awakening. Preparation is key, especially as I'll also be ascending with you. The more I understand about akṣapada, the greater my insights will be during our ascension.

"I can see similarities between ātatipada (dark path) and akṣapada (soul path). Perhaps during our ascent to the first chakra, I might find a way to combine them into a unique tantra, which is what we need." Udal continued with his explanation, prolonging the discussion of the upcoming ascent.

Drawing lessons from his encounter with the cursed beetle, Yuvan had taken precautions. Just in case the cursed dagger was wielded by someone like Udal—someone who might attempt or possess the capability to take over Yuvan's consciousness, unlike that poor old man—Yuvan had devised a countermeasure. Through the use of sattvapada (wisdom path) tantras, he had established multiple defensive wills within his mind. These wills acted as barriers, containing the symbiotic presence of Udal. Upon being attacked, these wills would be consumed, but they could be replenished by utilizing the tantra again.

Udal had already concluded his research into the paths, tantras, and everything else. His current actions were subtle probes into Yuvan's mental defences. The calculated usage of phrases like "our accession" within his dialogue was a deliberate attempt to provoke Yuvan, while also gauging his responses.

Udal aimed to unravel the depths of Yuvan's motivations, aiming to ignite Yuvan's ego and provoke a reaction from him. Yet, Yuvan remained impervious to Udal's attempts, steadfastly ignoring him throughout his discourse. Observing this unresponsiveness, Udal realized that his tactics were falling flat; it seemed Yuvan wasn't taking the bait. With a tinge of resignation, he remarked, "Very well, I am prepared. Let's proceed with breaking through into the first chakra."

Seated in a full-lotus meditative posture, Yuvan cantered his focus on his dantian, the vital energy centre within his body. The dantian had nearly reached its capacity, brimming with latent energy awaiting release. Udal offered his guidance on the procedure, his voice steady and knowledgeable, "Your task is to dismantle the intangible barriers that confine the inner Qi. We'll harness the dormant inner energy, akin to a coiled serpent, and guide it to rise and strike against these confines until they give way."

Udal's teachings delved deeper, "While the concept may seem straightforward, its execution is far from easy. When the barriers are breached, a flood of heaven and earth Qi rushes in, ushering in a new realm within you—a greater expanse for the awakening serpent to flourish."

However, the pinnacle of the first awakening transcends the physical aspects. In that fleeting moment of destruction and rebirth, you achieve unity with the entirety of existence. The duality of self and world dissolves, and you merge with the universal truth—the cosmic consciousness. This, my friend, is the crux of our endeavour. How we seize that ephemeral connection can amplify our mastery over ātatipada (dark path), leveraging my role as its creator. We can extrapolate from the commonalities between ātatipada and akṣapada (soul path), refining the Ātmadāsatā-tantra (soul-enslavement) through my expertise in dāsīkṛpada (enslavement path) and my mastery over the Heart chakra.

But, to embark on this journey, we must unify our consciousness—to become a single entity of purpose. I sense your apprehensions, but I solemnly pledge that I shall not bring harm upon you, bound by my own honour.

Yuvan remained steadfast in his focus on the serpent, refusing to engage in Udal's provocation. Udal's words continued to fall on deaf mental ears. "Are you truly letting your doubts overshadow this unparalleled opportunity? How many throughout history have been granted such a fortunate convergence for their cultivation journey?" Udal's frustration manifested in his words. "Your mistrust is so rampant that you value my honour naught. You're prepared to squander this chance simply due to your hesitations. Very well, then. I shall pledge my soul not to seize control during the process of first awakening."

"Revise it," Yuvan's mental voice was clear and direct.

Revise what?

"Alter your soul-vow. Declare that you will abstain from any attempt to take control throughout the entirety of the first chakra's duration," Yuvan's conditions were cautiously balanced. He knew that requesting anything beyond reasonable terms would be futile. Udal's nature was inherently resistant to yielding power to another.

"Hmm, agreed," Udal's response was begrudging, an acquiescence that Yuvan had no illusions about. "I, Alha Udal—the Glaive Lord, the Dark Prince—on my honour, do hereby enact a soul-vow, binding myself not to pursue overt control until your advancement to the Sacral chakra." Udal's words bore a sense of begrudging acceptance, laying bare his intentions with unflinching clarity.

As Yuvan retracted his mental defences, their consciousnesses began to merge. Their thoughts intertwined, exposing their plans and intentions to each other. This fusion was not met with surprise but with a focused determination to proceed. Unfazed by the unfolding process, they maintained their concentration, allowing their minds to meld. The experience could be likened to Yuvan emerging as the triumphant party, as his attainments in the ātatipada (dark path) surged significantly, reaching the level of a master. His proficiencies in various other paths also saw moderate advancements. Through this fusion, Yuvan absorbed Udal's experiences, witnessing his battles and learning from his practised tantras.

Udal, on the other hand, found himself unfazed by the exchange, for he was gaining valuable insights into his adversary's strengths and weaknesses—information he intended to exploit once his eventual takeover occurred. Amidst these dynamics, Udal concentrated on preparing himself for the forthcoming breakthrough. Armed with firsthand knowledge of the process, he aimed to extract the utmost benefits from this rare opportunity fate had bestowed upon him.

"Very well then," Yuvan declared, initiating the process of breaking through the barriers. While this endeavour would have posed a significant challenge for an ordinary C-grade talent—pushing through the barriers and ascending to the first chakra with only half of their core filled with dormant energy—Yuvan's exceptional grade talent and his surplus Qi that exceeded the core's capacity made the task considerably easier for him. With a sense of determination, he began to dismantle the protective walls that confined his inner energy.

As the process unfolded, Udal's voice echoed within Yuvan's consciousness, offering a piece of advice before the final breakthrough, "Yuvan, a piece of advice before you break through—don't lose yourself." With a resolute focus, Yuvan continued his efforts until the barriers shattered and his energy surged forward. The walls of confinement gave way, and Yuvan's consciousness began to ascend to the first chakra, marking a significant milestone in his cultivation journey.