Seizing Immortality: One Day at a Time [ Xianxia LitRPG Isekai ]

[DaoTian]

Zhen transmigrates to a world of cultivation and finds himself in the body of a disciple of a demonic sect. Except everyone in this sect is a spy, killing inside the sect is punishable, and he is immediately involved in a conspiracy with a major immortal sect.

Luckily, he came to this world with a power. Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Secrets.

Every day, he would get one chance to peek into the secrets hidden by the world.

His first target?
His new leader, the spy who was the former top young genius of Celestial Summit Sect that wanted kill him.

What to Expect:
— In-depth look at each cultivation realm and how they work.
— Balanced mix of action and Dao enlightenment with intense conspiracies.
— Main character is ruthless when needed.
— Well-paced story with hidden plots and schemes.
— Strong cast of characters that keep you hooked.

RoyalRoad | Patreon

 

[Tomato]

4 hours without a chapter?

 

[DaoTian]

The soft glow of the setting sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm light on the cozy living room. The faint scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air.

Zhen sighed contentedly, sinking into his favorite armchair. He picked up the remote, feeling the familiar buttons beneath his fingertips, and turned on the TV, the screen flickering to life with vibrant colors. Ready for a relaxing evening of binge-watching his favorite show.

"It's the perfect time for some downtime," he murmured, a relaxed smile forming on his lips.

He took a sip of his coffee, savoring the rich, bitter flavor that warmed him from the inside out. A bowl of popcorn sat on the side table, beckoning him to indulge. The soft shine of the fleece blanket draped over the back of the couch caught his attention.

"Ah, almost forgot my blanket." Zhen stood up, the cool air hitting his skin as he moved away from the warm spot he'd created in the armchair.

He walked over to the couch, the soft carpet beneath his feet cushioning each step. Grabbing the blanket, he felt its plush texture against his fingers, a comforting reminder of the high end price he had paid. Worth every penny.

He wrapped the plush blanket around himself and sat back down, a sudden, sharp pain exploded in his chest, and a wave of dizziness washed over him. His vision blurred, the room tilting alarmingly as the colors around him blended into a chaotic swirl.

As his consciousness faded, his last thought was a desperate wish.

No, no, not now. Damn it, I just wanted to watch my show!

The last thing he felt was the remote slipping from his grasp, clattering to the floor with a sound that seemed to echo endlessly in the darkening room.


— — — — —


His eyelids were tightly shut, and his body felt heavy, like he was submerged in a dense fog. Instead of soft fabric, rough stone scraped against his skin. Wherever he was, it wasn't the carpet or the hospital bed he was expecting.

Lying on a hard surface, and a metallic tang filled his mouth, accompanied by a sticky liquid on his left side.

Cough Cough.

He tasted the iron flavor of blood. Panic flared within him. Blood?

Wait, no, no, no, no— He couldn't die yet. He still had to watch that show.

Then suddenly, a cool chill washed away his dizziness as he struggled to sit up.

Opening his eyes, he took in the unfamiliar surroundings. A couple more glances revealed that he was lying in the center of a strange circle etched into the stone floor, glowing faintly with an eerie blue light. The walls around him were rough, unchiseled stone, reminiscent of the trip to the caves in the Whispering Hills. There was also a simple mat and a small fire pit with faint embers glowing, providing the room with some dim light.

What had happened?

Where was he?

His heart pounded in his chest, his breaths coming in shallow, rapid gasps. He tried to keep his panic at bay, focusing on calming down.

Deep breath in, deep breath out.

He knew better than to act impulsively. He had learned enough from his Boy Scout training to know that panicking would only make things worse. Rash actions could lead to severe consequences, especially in such a startling situation.

It felt like all the built-up pressure was suddenly released, a dam bursting inside his head. Along with the pain came a flood of memories that didn't belong to him.

He saw flashes of another life, another person's experiences melding with his own.

His legs gave out, and he collapsed back onto the hard stone floor, his eyes rolling back as he lost consciousness once more.


— — — — —


A sharp jolt of pain shot through his skull, dragging him back to consciousness. He blinked rapidly, disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings. Panic surged through him as fragmented memories of another life flooded his mind.

Amidst the barrage of memories, he strung together a couple of memory snippets that explained his situation.

Transmigration. He had somehow crossed over into another world.

It felt like the plot of a novel he'd once scoffed at, but the weight of the memories in his head was undeniable. The realization hit him like a freight train: he was no longer in his own body.

"Seriously? I didn't even watch the intro! How did I end up here?" he muttered, bewildered. His new surroundings were a stark contrast to his previous life – gone were the comforts of modern technology, replaced by the rustic charm of a natural cave.

The rough stone walls were dimly illuminated by the embers of a small fire pit and the blue glowing circle, casting flickering shadows that danced eerily around him.

Rubbing his aching temples, he took a deep breath and tried to focus. The memories swirling in his mind began to settle, revealing the life of the body's former occupant.

"The original owner was also called Zhen. How creepy..." he muttered a bit eerily before shaking off the discomfort.

Li Zhen, born into a family teetering on the brink of poverty; his childhood was a patchwork of mundane struggles and simple joys. But fate, with its twisted sense of humor, had other plans. When debts mounted, and choices dwindled, his parents made the desperate decision to sell him to the nearby demonic sect— the Abyssal Harmony Sect.

Luckily, Li Zhen had a natural affinity for cultivation and two years after he started cultivating, he had already reached the seventh realm of Qi Condensation was a nominal disciple.

The Abyssal Harmony Sect was considered a first-rate sect in the region, and only those who had reached the Foundation Establishment stage could become its outer disciples.

His rapid ascent was fueled not just by talent but by a lucky encounter during a mission—a forgotten shrine where the air thrummed with ancient energy, allowing him to break through the eighth realm of Qi Condensation and firm up his foundation. As Li Zhen advanced rapidly through the realms, he caught the eye of a greedy inner disciple.

Eager to become an outer disciple before his nineteenth birthday, Li Zhen had secured a ten-day retreat in the coveted Qi Cave, a sanctum saturated with dense spiritual energy. His plan was meticulous—fasting pills to sustain his body and undisturbed meditation to refine his qi.

However, destiny, ever capricious, had one more twist in store. On the first day of his retreat, an explosive surge of energy overwhelmed him as he pushed for the ninth realm. The balance of qi within spiraled out of control, throwing his cultivation into disarray and reducing him back to the seventh realm.

Now, he was in his place, with weakened strength. Although Abyssal Harmony Sect had some weird rules, it didn't take a genius to see that his future was miserable.

His boy scout training from his previous life kicked in—a habit of adaptability that had served him well during childhood. Since he was in this situation anyway, panicking would do no good. It was best to adapt and play it by ear.

First things first. Assess the situation. He took a deep breath, his chest rising and falling as he tried to steady his racing heart. The cave was silent except for the faint crackling of the dying embers.

He focused on calming himself, deep breath in, deep breath out. The sense of panic that had gripped him began to subside, replaced by a growing curiosity about this new world.

From his brief memory, he realized that this world was very similar to the novels he used to read. There were many dangers in this world, whether it be abnormal creatures or humans themselves.

This world revolved around 'strength' or the law of the jungle.

After a while, he didn't feel as panicked as he thought he would be, nor was he so scared that he would lose his mind. Of course, he did feel a slight panic, but it was overshadowed by his interest in cultivation and this new world.

The thrill of adventure and the prospect of discovering new abilities ignited a spark of excitement within him. He had already set his mind to become a cultivator. Well, it's not like he had much choice regarding this.

And the first step to do that is to accept his new identity.

Taking a deep breath, he muttered to himself, "From this moment forth, I am Li Zhen, disciple of Abyssal Harmony Sect."

There was a brief moment of stillness, and just as he began to feel a bit foolish posing alone in the cave, golden words burned in the air before his eyes.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


He looked to the side to see the exact words still burning in the air, not matching up with his reality at all. What did they mean? He had no clue. He could certainly use some sage insights, though.

 

[DaoTian]

Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


The glowing golden words hovered in the air, frustratingly vague. Li Zhen narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing the message. The Target was the key; finding something to target was priority number one. But target what? The bare cave walls? The cold, hard floor?

Li Zhen gritted his teeth, his gaze sweeping across the cave.

But after a sweep around the cave, there was nothing that he wanted to target.

It has to be something in here, he thought, frustration mounting. There's no way they'd just leave me with nothing. His eyes fell on the pitiful remnants of the fire, the ashes crumbling into dust. Useless. Absolutely useless. He dismissed the etched circle with a scoff. What was he supposed to do, target the floor? Even the mat, woven from some rough, unfamiliar material, seemed unworthy of his attention.

Finally, his gaze settled on the scroll. Could it be...? A flicker of hope ignited within him. It was the only thing in this desolate cave that held even a hint of purpose.

With a newfound urgency, Li Zhen snatched it up. He unfurled it with a soft crackle, revealing the parchment within. Ancient characters swam before his eyes, forming words and diagrams that he slowly began to decipher. It was a scroll detailing a Refinement Technique that was provided with the Qi Cave.

From the original Li Zhen's memories, he knew this was the basic Refinement Technique given to the disciples of the Abyssal Harmony Sect. He unrolled the scroll, the parchment crackling softly, and began to read.

Refinement Techniques allowed a cultivator to convert the qi or absorbed from their surroundings to their own internal qi.

The Hundred Stars Refinement technique cycled the qi through the meridians, forming stars in the acupoints to increase the quality of the qi. His fingers traced the ancient characters, each stroke a path to a deeper understanding.

These types of words might be the work of a lunatic or a writer, but he was sure he was sensing this qi around him.

As he got a basic understanding of the scroll, he took a moment to gather his thoughts. The intricate pathways and the concept of forming stars in his acupoints fascinated him. He closed his eyes, imagining the flow of qi, feeling a gentle hum within his body.

Idly, he checked the target again, and the sight nearly made him fall to his feet in shock.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: Valid


The hell? Zhen muttered, rubbing his eyes as if seeing things. But the words remained the same, steady and unchanging. It had clearly been None at first, and he certainly hadn't searched for any insights.

Was it the Refinement Scroll? That made a little sense. Both have scrolls in their name. He turned his head away from the scroll, and the words changed back.


Target: None


He hurriedly looked back at the scroll, and the message returned to Valid when he focused on the scroll. His heart pounded with excitement and curiosity.

Does that mean my abilities work on scrolls, but that still didn't explain the Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal parts? Were the scrolls divided into three categories? He didn't think so. It seemed too simplistic. Maybe I had to focus on the object.

Regardless, this was the opportunity he had been waiting for. So long as he played his cards right, that is. It was finally looking like something was going his way.

The golden words of the Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights hovered before his eyes, their glow casting a warm light over his focused expression. Good enough.

He summoned up the burning words and… pushed for lack of a better term. It felt as if something was snapping into place and filling what was once an empty space.

The golden words flashed and began to shift, new sentences materializing before Zhen's eyes.


Hundred Stars Refinement

The Hundred Stars Refinement is created by the Sect Master of Abyssal Harmony Sect from Opening Heaven Scripture. To create the Hundred Stars Refinement, Sect Maste—

Split the Chaos, Open the Heavens. Create the Three Thousand Dao and the Starry Sky—


His eyes widened as he read about the Opening Heaven Scripture and how the Sect Master had derived the Hundred Stars Refinement from it.

The knowledge was both enlightening and overwhelming. More complex than the Refinement scroll he read earlier. Half of it flew over his head, while the other half, which he understood, was cloaked in flowery, poetic language that seemed to complicate what might have been simple concepts.

A burning sensation traveled through him, but he ignored it, his mind too engrossed in the knowledge to pay attention to anything else. Each sentence seemed to unravel and reweave itself in his mind, creating a tapestry of information that was as beautiful as it was bewildering.

As soon as he finished reading, the golden words disintegrated and reverted to the previous message. He let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. He couldn't remember half of what he read, but he was sure there were some changes.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target Available In 16:42:33


Well… it was different, at least. He supposed it was his fault for assuming it would show him a user manual or something more straightforward after using the ability.

The timer in the golden words continued to tick down. He glanced at it, noting that he had less than seventeen hours until the next revelation. The passage of time both surprised and frustrated him.

He had spent a third of the day deciphering some esoteric knowledge that felt more like an abstract poem than practical guidance.

He felt like he had just experienced the so-called Enlightenment that cultivators referred to, and it was not to his liking.

Suddenly, a wave of weakness washed over him. His legs wobbled, and he nearly fell to his knees. A hollow, empty sensation spread through his body, draining his strength. His vision blurred, and his head felt light, as if he were about to faint.

What's happening? he whispered, panic creeping into his voice. He had expected to feel invigorated, but instead, he felt as though the energy had been sucked out of him.

He stumbled to the mat, collapsing onto it as he tried to focus on his breathing. Deep breath in, deep breath out. The weakness persisted, gnawing at him from the inside. He closed his eyes, attempting to center himself and understand what was happening.

From the memories of Li Zhen, he knew that overexertion in cultivation could lead to a depletion of one's qi, leaving a person feeling hollow and weak. It was a common mistake among novice cultivators, pushing themselves too hard without adequate preparation or rest.

Was this weakness the price he had to pay for activating his ability? He wasn't sure, but it felt like it was only half right. The energy drain seemed too severe for just accessing knowledge. Perhaps there was more to the cost of using the Sage's Daily Scroll than he initially realized.

After steadying himself, he tried to work out what he had learned, his mind racing as he replayed the events in his head.

Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights was a pain in the ass to parse out the meaning of at first, but he felt he had a good idea of it after actually using the power.

The Daily Scroll contained information about whatever was set as a Target, and he had to concentrate his mind to set a target. The new information would contain insights related to the target.

However, he could feel the understanding slipping away, as if the knowledge was too advanced for him to fully grasp. There was a reason why the Hundred Stars Refinement was used as a basic refinement method by disciples of the Abyssal Harmony Sect. Maybe the knowledge of Opening Heaven Scripture was too esoteric for his mind.

The word Daily was the issue. That was way too slow, but Zhen knew that it was just his inner laziness talking. Even getting some aid in this situation was heaven sent.

Would it only work on scrolls? He didn't think so. The term Scroll must refer to the golden words flashing in front of his eyes. He would have to wait for sixteen hours to check it out.

Now, Zhen had a basic understanding of the mysterious energy he'd been feeling inside him since he woke up in this world. The memories helped him know what qi is, but after reading the golden text, he felt that his senses were more responsive to it as his understanding had taken a qualitative leap.

Qi.

With his new experience, he gained a new understanding of fanciful tales of cultivators throwing fire from their hands and breaking rocks with a flick of a finger. All of it, from those supernatural phenomena to his newfound super strength, were powered by qi. Naturally, after hearing all that, his first thought was to experiment.

 

[DaoTian]

Li Zhen sat up straight as the feeling of weakness passed. He wasn't sure what was wrong, so he stopped worrying about it. There shouldn't be anything more wrong than him waking up here, so in front of that, everything could take its time to understand.

Hundred Stars Refinement

Shifting his weight to sit with his legs crossed in the center of the circle. From what he knew, the circle was a simple Qi Gathering formation.

There were three steps to properly complete one cycle of Hundred Stars Refinement.

First, he aligned his breathing with the Hundred Stars Refinement technique. He inhaled deeply, counting the seconds, then exhaled in short, controlled bursts—nine shallow exhalations followed by one deep inhalation. The rhythm was vital, a beat that his body and mind synchronized with, much like a musician finding the groove of a song.

As he continued this controlled breathing, Zhen felt a subtle shift in the air around him. The spiritual qi of the cave, rich and potent, began to stir in response to his disciplined breath. It flowed towards him, drawn by the harmony he had established with his breathing pattern. The qi was like a gentle breeze at first, brushing against his skin, but quickly intensified, surging towards him like a tidal wave as the Qi Gathering Circle started to activate.

Cultivation. The act of absorbing qi to break through the body's limits.

The human body needed an effective rhythm to inhale spiritual qi and synergize with heaven and earth.

Nine shallow exhalations and one deep inhalation...

With each cycle, the spiritual qi surged like a tidal wave. Zhen felt like every pore in his body was gaping wide, greedily absorbing the spiritual qi. The qi entered his body through every pore, a sensation that was both invigorating and soothing. It felt as though countless tiny hands were massaging his muscles, easing away the fatigue and stress that had accumulated over time.

His body responded eagerly, drinking in the qi like a parched desert soaking up rain. The comfort was almost overwhelming, a wave of pleasure that threatened to break his concentration. It felt too good!

But Zhen held firm. He focused on the next step of the Refinement, guiding the qi through his meridians with deliberate care. With qi in hand, he began to twist and turn it until it matched the pattern described in the technique book.

The technique book had suggested imagining a hundred stars, each one a point of light representing the qi circulating through his system. Each star point would act his refinement location, providing him area to easily convert the ambient qi.

He tried to hold this image in his mind, but the sheer intensity of the sensation made it difficult. A sharp pain lanced through his body, jolting him out of his meditative state. The qi writhed within him, threatening to break free from his control. He gritted his teeth, forcing himself to remain calm. Maybe not a hundred…

He should start with one. One is good… There is nothing wrong with one.

He thought that cultivation would bring him new heights of pleasure; instead, no one informed him that it also brought new heights of pain. He felt cheated…

After controlling his rhythm again, he soon focused on the refinement.

The pain subsided, replaced by a steady warmth that spread through his body. He could feel the qi settling into a harmonious flow, each breath drawing in more energy, each exhalation purging impurities from his system.

Now came the hard part. The cultivation method had its own specific pattern to flow qi in, but more than that, it required him to recite a sutra as he did so. He didn't know exactly how that helped, and the book didn't see fit to tell him. Zhen thanked all the last minute cramming he had ever done as he recited the painfully memorized sutra.

Something about a hundred stars floating in the starry sky or something. Maybe forming a constellation. The language was flowery and full of metaphors he couldn't understand, and he slowly got lost in trying to parse them. His qi was still cycling, and Zhen felt some peace for the first time since he found himself in this world.

Within his growing qi, he could almost see a speck of light appear in one of the acupoints. It grew with every passing rotation, and he could feel the quality of it was much greater than what he currently had.

That thought gave him a pause— He should at least have seven stars in his body due to his seventh realm, but he didn't notice anything other than qi—

The thought disrupted his rhythm, and a spurt of blood flowed from his lips. Zhen realized the meaning of why concentration was crucial in cultivation. It was one thing to know and another to feel the consequences. He suppressed his errant thoughts and focused on the Hundred Stars Refinement. How could anyone practice this in one go… His modern mind is not equipped for these meditation exercises.

With a yell, the speck of light illuminated inside his body.

He followed the flow of his qi as it completed its natural cycle around his body. With an effort of thought, he took control of it and manually directed another cycle, then another, and another, faster and faster. As the circulation sped up, he felt the qi in the air around him enter his body. Every cycle washed away whatever differences there were in the ambient qi until it became his own and permanently expanded his reserves.

Zhen felt the qi in the cave lessened considerably as his body absorbed it. Before he thought that the qi would be consumed, a fresh wave of qi started entering the Cave as a new wind bellowed in the cave.

Suddenly, the speck of light vibrated violently and rapidly started to absorb all the qi inside his meridians.

After focusing for a whole ten minutes, the qi in his body lessened, he saw that it wasn't just a speck of light. Now it became a glowing star spinning at the acupoint.

After every trace of qi on his body was absorbed by the star, it lit up as a supernova, and erupted with a massive amount of his own qi that started flowing through his meridians again.

Zhen exhaled the turbid qi, his eyes shining brightly with remaining spirituality. As his qi flooded out in a white starlight, the star's burst of qi was ringing in his skull, and he roared with it, his qi rising with it before doubling back. He was slick with sweat and heaving, but…

He could easily observe his first star in the acupoint. It was the source for the qi inside his body.

Invigorated. He felt strong. He felt giddy. For the first time since he transmigrated, he felt like he finally owned this body.

He looked within and found that his qi capacity had grown and the qi had become white. The star, however, was rotating in the acupoint. He didn't know why there was only one star. That information almost disrupted his refinement.

According to Hundred Stars, he should have seven stars at a minimum, and he was not sure the reason for the absence of stars in his acupoints?

A sliver of worry crept into his mind. Did that mean he had been dropped again from the seventh realm to the bottom? Whether it was the technique or something he did, he needed to meditate and check again.

He had to at least reach the ninth realm in Qi Condensation to ensure his safety and progress outside. The thought almost disrupted his focus, but he forced himself to remain calm. There was still time, and with the speed that first star was created, he was sure he could complete it on time.

Zhen looked around the cave and felt that the qi had returned to the level that he now dubbed normal. A sigh escaped his lips. A cultivation cave was really a treasure. He silently praised the previous Zhen's decision to save his spirit stones to reserve the cave for ten days.

Thankfully, he had his personal clock for timing or he would have gone crazy without much to do.



Target Available In 05:59:12



Another six hours. And eight more days. In a bare bones cave.

Zhen stood up, his legs a bit wobbly from the intense cultivation session. He steadied himself and walked toward the fire pit in the corner of the cave. The flickering flames held a mesmerizing quality, drawing him in, providing a distraction to clear his mind from the worries of his cultivation.

As he approached, he noticed the embers glowing with a steady, intense heat. They didn't emit any smoke, which struck him as unusual. The fire pit's warmth enveloped him, providing a comforting contrast to the cool cave air.

He crouched down beside the fire pit, extending his hands toward the heat. The warmth seeped into his skin, easing the lingering tension from his body. He stared into the embers, losing himself in their steady glow. The rhythmic dance of the flames seemed to mirror the cycles of qi he had been guiding through his body.

For a moment, Zhen allowed himself to simply be, without the pressures of cultivation or the mysteries of his current state. The absence of smoke from the embers was peculiar, but it provided a clean, unclouded heat that seemed almost purifying.

At least heat was something familiar from his old world. From his body, to the environment, to the air itself, everything in this world was different from what he had been used to for the past twenty-five years.

He crouched down beside the fire pit, extending his hands toward the heat. The warmth seeped into his skin, easing the lingering tension from his body. He stared into the embers, losing himself in their steady glow.

For a moment, Zhen allowed himself to simply be, without the pressures of cultivation or the mysteries of his current state but that didn't last long. Even some new fire magic stones were not enough for him to notice it.

Standing up from his crouched position, he took a deep breath, inhaling the pure, smoke-free air. The warmth from the embers had rejuvenated him, providing a moment of peace amidst his chaotic thoughts. He knew he needed to meditate further, to understand the anomaly in his cultivation. As he watched the embers, his thoughts gradually settled, and clarity began to seep back into his mind.

 

[DaoTian]

Despite Li Zhen's peaceful meditation, he did not, in fact, enjoyed it for long.

After a cursory exploration of the dimly lit surroundings, the novelty wore off, and the oppressive silence only heightened his sense of boredom. His hyperactive mind forced him to do something. And the only thing he could do was practice his refinement method.

He settled into the center of the circle, closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and sensed the qi in the cave reacting. Just as he felt a flicker of calm, a sudden flash of light burst forth, shattering the cave's dim monotony.

Zhen's heart leaped into his throat, and he scrambled backward, his thoughts racing. His mind raced with scenarios of attacks, ambushes, assassins, and other threats. Being in a cave was not reassuring at all.

But no attack came. As quickly as it had appeared, the light faded, leaving behind a single, tattered parchment on the ground. Zhen's eyes widened in disbelief after the mystical transfer as he cautiously approached the object, his heart still pounding in his chest.

He reached out and picked up the parchment, feeling the rough, uneven texture beneath his fingers. The paper was not at all like the smooth surface he was accustomed to. He carefully unrolled the parchment, revealing a series of hurried scribbles.

His eyes scanned the letter, the memories helping him to understand the words.


Disciple Li Zhen,

You have gone above the allotted qi for your ninth realm Qi Condensation breakthrough. Additional fines have been levied for not providing prior notice, and the next usage of qi will be charged at double the rate.

Fine - 200 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones

Additional Qi Cost: 2x

You could also end your cultivation early.

Total Dues: 211

Nominal Area Qi Gathering Cave
Disciple Feng Ling


His heart sank. Just the word fine was enough to introduce stress in his inner mind. It had not even been a day since he had come to terms with the fact that he was indeed in a cultivation world. Yet, this simple parchment grounded him in the harsh reality that even here, bureaucracy thrived.

His mouth fell open in disbelief at the exorbitant dues that he accrued. For a moment, he was raging to go flying to lodge a complaint. But he controlled himself. The Seventh realm Qi Condensation Li Zhen might have been barely strong enough to demand an answer, but with his current first realm cultivation, he would be lucky to avoid enslavement, let alone demand answers.

The cave is not a treasure at all. It's a damn money pit.

He sighed, contemplating his situation. There was no way he could leave without at least regaining his former strength. To do so would be suicidal so leaving early was not an option.

All the excitement he felt earlier dissipated, replaced by a sinking realization of his strength. It was just a small dose of what personal strength meant in a world ruled by the laws of the jungle.

With great powers, comes great debt.

There was nothing he could do. Strength ruled all, and he had become a broken cultivator, fallen to the First Realm of Qi Condensation. He would have to dig himself out of this hole, one painstaking step at a time in just nine days.

Before practicing, he started to go over Li Zhen's memory. There should be something there he could use. He saved a hundred spirit stones for his breakthrough and was penniless. Now he was even not penniless but beyond it.

Surprisingly, he retained all the memories of the previous Li Zhen except for his personal cultivation, Any enlightenment, progress, or insights he might have gained during his cultivation were missing. He wasn't sure what to make of it.

Even the fact that he was once an Eighth realm Qi Condensation Cultivator was because the previous Li Zhen had booked this cave to break through to the ninth realm.

During this time, he dedicated himself to adjusting his mindset and familiarizing himself with his new environment. One of his primary focuses was delving into the depths of his acquired memories, gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the body he now inhabited.

This process proved to be immensely beneficial for him. As he delved deeper into the recesses of his mind, he unearthed a wealth of knowledge that shed light on his newfound capabilities.

When comparing this new body to his previous one, he found that he possessed greater strength, agility, and overall prowess. The memories he accessed revealed that the previous Li Zhen had diligently practiced martial arts from a young age, and for that, he would like to thank his sect.

After that, he checked his supposed ability. Testing the idea of having a system, he playfully uttered commands like "System," "Panel," "Properties," and "Status."

When no response came, he felt a mix of frustration and amusement. Perhaps he was missing something, or perhaps there was no system at all. Either way, he knew he couldn't rely on it.

With no other options, he gritted his teeth and resumed his cultivation, fully aware of the exorbitant costs involved. Burning four times the money for half the result.

Sitting cross-legged, he took a deep breath and centered himself, entering a state of tranquil rhythm with his breathing. The dim glow of the cave's blue circle flickered softly around him as the qi began to respond to his call. Slowly but surely, he felt the ethereal energy start to flow toward him, a gentle yet persistent current that enveloped his body and seeped through the pores.

The rush of energy made him temporarily forget about his pain as he started to go through the stages of the Hundred Stars Refinement.

The initial rush of energy was a soothing balm that momentarily made him forget the harsh realities of troubles as he navigated the stages of the Hundred Stars Refinement.

As he focused, the qi coalesced within his acupoints, swirling and condensing with increasing intensity. The sensation was both exhilarating and challenging, requiring him to maintain precise control over the influx of power.

The qi started being rapidly absorbed by the star rotating in his acupoints. He wasn't sure why, but the formation of the star was easier than the previous one. Achieving a second star in his acupoint brought a sense of accomplishment, though it quickly depleted the qi in the chambers.

The rapid replenishment of the qi only added to his frustration, as it felt like a deliberate ploy to drain him dry. They sure as hell couldn't wait for him to use more of the qi. He realized it was just muttering of his poor mindset, but cursing helped lessen his blood pressure.

There was also something else. This time, Zhen noticed something peculiar about the qi he was absorbing. He was not sure, but he felt the qi he was absorbing contained some traces of starlight or something that would accumulate in his acupoint before converting to a star. This discovery intrigued him, adding a layer of mystery to his cultivation process. Was it due to his increasing realm that he started noticing the subtleties of qi?

He checked the golden words trying to get a sense of time passed.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: 00:30:47


After achieving the second star in under five hours, he felt a slight release of the tension that had been building within him. His body was brimming with energy, and he felt stronger. Clenching his fist, he felt the muscles tensing and the air vibrating around him. The sensation was exhilarating, a reminder of the power he sought to reclaim.

Rather than rushing to the third realm, he decided to wait for the golden words. That was the only thing that might help him breakthrough, because he was certain he wouldn't be able to rush to the ninth realm of Qi Condensation even with the money pit cave.

The first word, Sage, might refer to someone, perhaps the owner of whatever artifact or power he had stumbled upon. Or it could simply be a title or a name. Sage could describe a vast number of cultivators, so for his peace of mind, he started believing it referred to a general class of people rather than someone specific.

But what if it's not? What if it's someone incredibly powerful watching my every move? He shook his head. No, no, that's just paranoia talking. Focus on what you can control.

Daily Scroll, was also easy to understand, possibly indicating the frequency he might be able to use this skill. As for the Scroll, he wondered if it was only possible to target scrolls or if it could also be used to target different things.

As for Heavenly, and Earthly, he just termed it as cultivation jargon refer to all things. Probably just fancy words for the big stuff and the little stuff, he mused.

What he was interested in was about Mortal Insights.

Now, this sounds like something I can actually use. Maybe it means he could learn more about himself, his own potential or his situation. That could be the key to rapid advancement.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: 00:00:47

 

[DaoTian]

Li Zhen stood up and began collecting the miscellaneous items scattered around the cave. The tea set with a kettle sat beside the fire pit, which radiated comforting heat without producing any smoke. He appreciated the lack of smoke; it would make this cave much more tolerable.

His gaze moved over to the mat, the refinement scroll, and the glowing circle that pulsated in rhythm with his cultivation practice. This circle, he knew, was the source of his mounting debt, a constant reminder of the price he was paying for his ambition.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


Relief washed over him as the target changed back to none. He wanted to check the refinement scroll again, as it gave him the highest thrill, but he reined his mind. First, he needed to understand his ability better. That took precedence over everything else. He needed to be systematic.

He placed the empty cup before him and fixed his stare on it. It felt strange, almost silly, but the golden words materialized promptly, sparing him from feeling like a fool.

There was a moment of suspense, a brief second, where he questioned if this would work. When the golden words appeared, he felt a rush of excitement.


Target: Valid


One by one, he checked the other items. The fire pit, the kettle, the tea leaves, the mat—his skill could target each one. This ability was more literal than he had initially thought.

Maybe the Heavenly and Earthy Insights really refered to all things. Even the blue glowing circle below him, the very thing feeding his debt, was a potential valid target. That realization opened new possibilities.

He made a mental note to target the circle the next day. It could hold secrets he had yet to uncover.

Next, he picked up the refinement scroll, holding his breath. This scroll was a lifeline for him to advance with proper foundation. If the scroll was no longer valid, he would lose a critical source of insight.


Target: Valid


Relief washed over him again as the golden words appeared, confirming its validity. He had feared that his first reading might have exhausted its insights, but that was not the case.

Now came the ultimate test—targeting himself. If his ability could reveal insights about his own body, it would be invaluable.

He crossed his fingers, feeling a flutter of nerves in his stomach, and lowered his head to focus on his body. He sat cross-legged, wearing the simple disciple uniform of brown pants and a beige shirt. A robe was also folded near the entrance that he had left.

Information cascaded through his consciousness as the golden words materialized before him. His breath hitched as the information poured in, his thoughts racing to process the influx.


Li Zhen
Spiritual Root: Mid-Grade Spiritual Root.
Cultivation: 2nd Realm of Qi Condensation.
Refinement Technique: Hundred Stars Refinement ( Modified )

He is a nominal disciple of the Abyssal Harmony Sect, striving to break through to the ninth realm of Qi Condensation to get the chance to become a Quasi Outer Disciple before reaching nineteen.

Due to a qi deviation three days earlier, his cultivation had regressed to the Seventh Realm. During an enlightenment session while contemplating the Opening Heaven Scripture, the faint seven stars were consumed, causing him to fall to the Mortal Realm.

However, his understanding of the Opening Heaven Scripture significantly increased his cultivation speed, allowing him to return to the 2nd Realm of Qi Condensation by combining his newfound insights with the Hundred Stars Refinement technique.


A deep sigh escaped his lips as the content of the golden light disintegrated after he completed reading it. It was intriguing and overwhelming to access such detailed information about himself and his abilities.

Looking at the detailed report about his current situation, he was surprised to note that there were no details about his transmigration. Either the golden words were not powerful enough to pry into his secrets, or the world accepted him as Li Zhen.

The thought brought a mix of relief and anxiety. If his secret remained hidden, he had an advantage, but it also meant he was alone in this world, with no way to know his true origins or how he was brought here.

His fall in the cultivation realm had been a shock. He hadn't even noticed the changes in his body during that time. He had felt so powerful earlier. Did that cheap enlightenment stiff him on his realms?

No, impossible. He could feel the answer circulating within him; he instinctively could tell that the quality of the energy produced by the Hundred Stars Refinement was better than what he had before.

The two stars in his acupoints shone brightly, unlike the faint stars mentioned by the golden words. Of course, it wouldn't be a 1:1 exchange when he switched from one to another.

Then there was another worrying thought. If the refinement scroll had once led to a loss of his cultivation, could it happen again? Was he building on a proper foundation or setting himself up for another fall? He needed to be cautious in its future usage. For a moment, he felt he would not be able to push toward Ninth Realm of Qi Condensation, but pushed the worries to the back of his mind.

Next, he noticed that the text was flavored with only mentions about cultivation. Maybe it was due to him focusing solely on it, or perhaps the golden words showed what was most relevant to his immediate needs. More usage would be required to test the limits of his power.

Initially, his mind was blown by the appearance of the golden words. After all, with a heaven defying ability, even a pig could fly, but soon his elation gave way to a tinge of disappointment.

The golden words had a counter of a day. Even his first usage of his ability had unknowingly caused his realm to fall. That was a scary thought. What if he was not in a cave with qi? Would he suddenly be weakened during a mission or facing an enemy?

His dream of becoming a heaven-defying, handsome immortal cultivator vanished just like that. Alas, it was not meant to be. He couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. It was a dramatic thought, a bit of theatrics to lighten his mood.

In truth, he was indeed disappointed that he did not have an unlimited chance, but he also did not mind it too much. He had always known that reality rarely matched the fantasies spun in novels.

After all, the abilities he read about were basically omnipotent miracles, ones that would easily make even immortals jealous. So why would he ever be lucky enough to receive such a thing free of cost?

One thing Zhen had learned in his life was that free things cost the most. Now, in this new world, he learned that the things you paid for even cost you more. The sheer idea of possessing such power without any strings attached seemed too good to be true. He knew better than to believe in free miracles. Even though there were some worries.

At least, looking on the bright side, Zhen reminded himself that he was still alive, and in the grand scheme of things, that was already a tremendous blessing. So, he did not dwell on it too much.

Especially since the status uplifted his mood. He remembered the glowing words, each line bringing some sense to his chaotic understanding of the world.

The first piece of information that caught his attention was his spiritual roots. Everyone is born with spiritual roots, but mortals have atrophied spiritual roots. And it takes a lot of resources to make them healthy. Even then, you could get the lowest potential of a cultivator. The disparity between mortals and cultivators was stark. The resources needed to nurture spiritual roots were immense, often beyond the reach of ordinary people.

Low-grade, middle-grade, and high-grade. How fast one absorbed and processed qi depended on the quality of the spiritual roots. This hierarchy of spiritual roots determined the ease and speed of cultivation, a crucial factor in a cultivator's journey.

He possessed Middle Grade Spiritual Roots, which could be considered a reasonably good aptitude. In the context of the entire sect, he could be regarded as a middle-to-upper-tier talent. While not the best, they provided a solid starting point.

At least he wouldn't be repeating the main cliche fully. His cultivation was consumed; for a time, he was a mortal. But his spirit roots were not crippled. And he had to reach the same realm before he became a snack for his enemies.

While he was consoling himself, the light from before emitted in front of the circle. The familiar glow filled the cave, drawing his attention.


Brother Li Zhen,

Congratulations on deciding to continue using the cave to break through your ranks.

We were deeply moved by your dedication and wanted to contribute to Brother Li Zhen's cultivation, so we have decided to increase the percentage of starlight qi in your cave.


Reading the first part of the letter, Li Zhen felt quite emotional. The address had changed from Disciple to Brother. The cultivation world was not the same as he expected. There are many who are willing to help a fellow disciple. He continued reading the letter quite happily. It was heartening to think that his peers recognized his efforts and were willing to support him. Perhaps this world wasn't as cold and ruthless as he had feared.


As your brothers and sisters are working extra hard to gather starlight qi for Brother Li Zhen, we would like our brother to take care of us.

Additional Qi Cost: 3x

You could also end your cultivation early or stop us fellow brothers and sisters from supplying additional starlight qi. We could easily accommodate Brother Li Zhen, but there might be a dip in your starlight qi percentage as we reshuffle the disciples.

Total Dues: 257

Nominal Area Qi Gathering Cave
Senior Brother Feng Ling


He nearly felt like he was going to cough up blood when he read the final words. This cultivation world was even more shameless than he had thought. There are well wishes and helping hands, and then there was the threat of low-quality qi. The initial warmth he felt was swiftly replaced by a cold realization. His peers' support came at a hefty price, a stark reminder that nothing in this world came free.

 

[DaoTian]

For a while, this Brother Li Zhen didn't know if he should laugh or cry. Ultimately, he chose to count his blessings. His initial plans to use the refinement scroll were abruptly thwarted before they could take hold, but his newfound brother's entrepreneurial spirit helped him find a solution.

Moving on, he focused on his current situation. According to the memories he had absorbed, the Abyssal Harmony Sect was a first-class sect, and their disciple ranks reflected this status.

There were four types of disciples that Li Zhen knew. True Disciple, Inner Disciple, Outer Disciple, and Nominal Disciple.

All Nominal Disciples were in the Qi Condensation Realm, while all Foundation Establishment cultivators were Outer Disciples.

Then there were those with Quasi Ranks. It was one of the weird rules that he didn't understand at all.

A Quasi Disciple referred to individuals who had reached the final stage of their current realm, earning titles such as Quasi Outer Disciple or Quasi Inner Disciple. These cultivators enjoyed the significant perk of a grace period—ranging from a few months to several years—free from missions and decreased responsibilities and jobs, allowing them to focus solely on their advancement.

The previous Li Zhen had gambled everything to attain the status of a Quasi Outer Disciple, hoping to deflect the greedy eyes of the Inner Disciples.

With a six-month grace period granted, he aimed to smoothly transition into the Foundation Establishment stage, solidifying his place within the Outer Sect area.

Now he was in the second realm, trying to advance to the ninth realm. Although his brother from the Qi Gathering Cave was good to him, he felt confident about his prospects of reaching the eighth realm effortlessly. The ninth realm, however, loomed as a formidable challenge.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: 23:01:49


With his abilities reset and the countdown ticking away, his focus sharpened to a single, urgent goal: reaching the ninth realm as swiftly as possible. He was prepared to go to any lengths, even if it meant burning through money and having debts. Hopefully, he could easily repay them back.

Placing all the objects back to their places, he settled into his meditation stance, he couldn't help but smirk. It was time for his numbers to go brr.

❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖​

Two days had already passed since he woke up in this world, and there was nothing much to do other than drink the tea here or cultivate. If he had booked it for ten days, it would be best to use it to the fullest. Not that his weak self would survive much in the outside world.

While there were other considerations to make, the power coursing through his body was like drinking the finest delicacies he had tasted back home, and he was hooked on getting more of it. No wonder those cultivators become murderhobos to gain more of these feelings.

He had only increased his realm by two levels in the past day. The speed of his cultivation had slowed down, and by his calculation, he could easily cover his major goal of attaining Ninth Realm.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


Now he could use the golden words again as the counter has reached zero. With a limit of time on his ability, he would have to prioritze his usage. For the time being, he had decided not to use the refinement scroll as he couldn't risk his cultivation falling. So he focused on the blue glowing circle in the center of the cave.


Starlight Convergence Qi Gathering Formations

Created by the Sect Master of the Abyssal Harmony Sect, it is a meticulously designed Qi Gathering Formation tailored for cultivators in the Qi Condensation realm, particularly those who utilize the Hundred Stars Refinement or starlight qi. It als—

Formation Blueprint

• Central Star Point: At the heart of the formation lies a crystal imb—
• Celestial Nodes: Surrounding the Central Star Point are twelve Nodes, each repre—
• Astral Veins: Connecting the Celestial Nodes are Ast—

Optimum Activation: The cultivator must stand at the Central Star Point and circulate their qi in harmony with the rhythm of the stars.

Damages: Due to the abnormal flow of nightshade poison qi three days ago, the formation efficiency is reduced by 5 percent.

Weakness: Severing Astral Lines in Section 3A and Damaging the 4th Celesti—


Looking at the details, his heart started beating faster and faster. The complete blueprint for the formation, with its activation methods and weaknesses, lay before him. He felt as though he had robbed the Abyssal Harmony Sect as he meticulously tried to memorize the formation.

From his past experience, he knew that he only had one chance before the golden words disintegrated. His future suddenly seemed bright; if he could get these details easily, wouldn't he be a money-making machine?

But then he returned to reality. Anything worth making money should be protected, meaning if he started flaunting exclusive goods, it would be a problem. For common goods, it was just a method to get things in a different way. Suddenly, the ability didn't seem so great.

He took a deep breath and refocused. The blueprint of the starlight Convergence Formation was intricate, its potential immense. However, its real value lay not in selling the knowledge but in using it to bolster his own cultivation.

After he completed reading, he closed his eyes as the golden words disintegrated. He savored the information he had gained and began to revise it in his mind. Only a quarter of the knowledge was comprehensible; the rest had coalesced into flowery language that he couldn't understand. Nonetheless, it was still valuable. He knew he would have more chances to learn and decipher it later on.

Despite the partial understanding, the core principles and activation methods were clear. And also the damages.

His eyes narrowed as he contemplated the situation. Three days ago was when the previous Li Zhen had started cultivating inside the Qi Gathering Cave. Three days earlier was when he had died. He would be an idiot if he couldn't understand that someone had tried to kill him using the formation.

Someone had tampered with the starlight Convergence Formation, causing it to malfunction, and sent the nightshade poison qi. That person had intended to harm, or even kill, the previous Li Zhen. Though he wasn't entirely sure what nightshade poison qi was, he knew it must be deadly enough to be a significant threat.

Why would anyone go to such lengths? Was this just a one-time attack, or would more attempts be made? If they targeted him once, they might try again. The fear of unknown enemies gnawed at him, but he analyzed the situation logically.

His mind raced as he considered the implications. Why? Was it jealousy, rivalry, or something deeper?

The previous Li Zhen had been a decent person within the Abyssal Harmony Sect, and there was only one person who had a clear motive to kill him.

Was it for the supposed treasure that helped previous Li Zhen advance?

But that shouldn't be possible. Even though the inner disciple had his suspicions, that didn't mean he had to kill him. The inner disciple who targeted him didn't work in the Qi Gathering Caves of the Nominal Sect Area. What if the elders or disciples from the Qi Gathering Caves got their hands on it?

He stopped his thoughts from spiraling. Either way, the answers were unclear, but one thing was certain: he had enemies within the Abyssal Harmony Sect. Enemies who wanted to kill him.

His fingers tightened, hardening his resolve. He couldn't afford to be careless. The sect was now a den of potential threats. He needed to be vigilant, to watch his back at all times.

He looked around the cave, the familiar blue glow of the formation now tinged with a sense of danger. The cave was now a reminder of the peril he faced. From a money pit to also becoming a poison pit. His life seems to be going downhill pretty fast— Truly, ignorance was bliss.

But he wouldn't be deterred. If anything, this revelation only fueled his desire to grow stronger, to uncover the truth, and to protect himself from those who wished him harm. Even if he was raised to be non-violent, it doesn't mean he was going for his death waiting. He realized that the cultivation might also have affected his mind and not only his body.

Only strength mattered.

After putting the whole matter to the back of his mind, he returned to his latest find. Some good news might be enough to help him stabilize.

The starlight Convergence Qi Gathering Formation was quite confusing for him to understand. Despite his partial understanding, it was evident that this formation was high grade. And it was another thing given by the Sect Master.

From Li Zhen's memory, the Sect Master was a woman, who had been recuperating from grievous injuries sustained sixty years ago when the Abyssal Harmony Sect rose to the status of a first rate sect. After seeing the two products of the Sect Master, she seemed particularly powerful as the Sect continued to hold its first rate position without her direct intervention.

He shook his head, refocusing his thoughts. He had a few days to unravel the formation.

Now, he wanted to break through to the fifth realm of Qi Condensation. For a moment, he considered the possibility of being poisoned again, but the perpetrators should have already acted if they had the chance. He was playing with his life here if the poison qi was present again. Hopefully, he could observe any changes.

Zhen took a deep breath and steadied his breathing with the rhythm, qi flowing into his meridians. This influx of energy created a subtle sensation of expan—

And a new light flashed before he was fully immersed. This time, he was not at all surprised. Even though it was the third time he had witnessed something materialize out of thin air, an event that would have turned his previous world upside down, it had become a staple of his current reality.

He chuckled inwardly at the thought. Who was he kidding? It was totally cool to watch, every single time. The only regret gnawing at him was his lack of understanding of the phenomenon. Maybe in the future…


Brother Li Zhen

Due to your impressive consumption, the Qi percentage in your Cave will be increased to support your Qi Condensation Realm breakthrough.

Total Dues: 375 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones

Nominal Area Qi Gathering Cave
Senior Brother Feng Ling


Looking at the new letter, this Brother Li Zhen's eyebrow twitched. He felt like a pig being fattened. His future earned Qi Condensation Spirit Stones seemed to evaporate before he even put his eyes on them.

Shaking from the brief interruption, he started deepening his breadth and returned to refinement.

 

[DaoTian]

Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


Three days and a few hours had passed since Li Zhen woke up in this place. His progress had slowed considerably, forcing him to delay activating his abilities.

Instead of focusing on the formation, he decided to check on other materials inside the cave. For his first try, he focused on the tea leaves. It was the only consumable item he had indulged in regularly and could be affecting him.

He gathered the remaining tea leaves and carefully examined them, suspecting they might have been tampered with, potentially laced with some kind of poison or suppressant. The tea had been the only consumable item he had indulged in regularly, and its effects could be subtle but significant.


Starveil Leaf

Enhances starlight qi consumption for Qi Condensation realm cultivators. Soothes and focuses the mind and spirit.

Hidden Properties: Laced with a drop of Shadowroot Extract, it reacts lethally with nightshade poison qi, producing a potent poison that disrupts spiritual pathways and causes qi deviation, leading to death without physical harm.


The Starveil Leaf is known for its ability to enhance the absorption of starlight qi, making it a favored choice among nominal cultivators practicing refinement like the Hundred Stars Refinement. It is a staple tea for most individuals in the sect, second only to spirit stones.

However, these leaves had been laced with a catalyst that, when combined with nightshade poison qi from a formation, creates a deadly poison.

Zhen almost flipped the entire set of cups and leaves in frustration. The increasing pressure from all the death traps he had encountered was overwhelming. Cultivating was proving to be far more dramatic than he had ever imagined.

Next time, he resolved not to come to the Qi Gathering Caves at all. Instead, he would learn the formation, build it in secret, and cultivate privately.

He looked around the cave, shaking his head. Free things are truly the costliest. Not using them should be a good idea. He put the tea leaves as far away from him.

His mind raced with plans. He was sure the person targeting him had access to these Caves, and the only clue he had was Disciple Feng Ling.

His eyes narrowed as he contemplated. He could applaud Feng Ling's enterprising tactics, but his attacker was clearly intent on killing him. Perhaps he could glean some clues through his Senior Brother.



— — — — —



Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


Life before felt simpler compared to the constant paranoia he was developing now. Despite this, he continued to cultivate and practice. While using his abilities after every day.


Firesoul Hearth

A simple, earthen pit, commonly used by novice cultivators in the Qi Gathering Cave for warming and cooking. Typically lined with ember stones that absorb and retain heat efficiently.

There is one in fifty chance that any food cooked over the Firesoul Hearth may develop a taste of burnt wood.


The result of the fire pit was quite mundane. Li Zhen didn't know whether to feel relieved that it wasn't trying to kill him or to cry for wasting his precious ability. Instead of wasting the golden words, he decided to only target the Qi Gathering Formation.

The vision of the stars appeared again when he recited the sutra of the Hundred Stars Refinement. It wasn't as intense as the first time, which he thought was typical. It wasn't enough to merely flow his energy a specific way; he also had to change the properties of the qi directly as the qi refined through the stars.

The Hundred Stars Refinement served as the primary cultivation technique of the sect, so its effectiveness couldn't be underestimated. It was a great technique to lay the foundation for cultivators, but its sole drawback lay in its difficulty in making progress without stars. However, this was easily mitigated within the Qi Gathering Cave.

Seven days had passed since he woke up. He had achieved the eighth realm, but a new problem arose: he couldn't form his ninth star. It was illusory and unstable, wobbling here and there.

After wasting a day on it, he had a sinking feeling. His rapid advancement might be because he was regaining his former realm rather than forging a new path. For a moment, he considered using the golden words for targeting the Refinement Scroll but decided against it. He can't lose his realms again.

Instead, he decided to go old fashion and entered meditation, understanding it was a life-and-death situation, and delved into the knowledge from the Opening Heaven Scripture that he could remember.

With his comprehension of the Opening Heaven Scripture aided by the clear golden words from his first usage, Zhen repeatedly studied the Hundred Stars Refinement and finally grasped the essence of the refinement.

The stars were actually forming in a path. And the path was not actually straight forward but instead was encircling below his navel. Or what felt like navel when he sensed the qi circling in the area.

Yet, there was nothing tangible he could find there. Unfortunately, Li Zhen's memory of cultivation was strangely missing from his mind.

So, without much knowledge of this world, he started patching it up with his own ideas. Likely, the stars were trying to surround his center below his navel.

Dantian. He called it Dantian as there was no other name he knew. Hopefully, the cultivation world followed some similarities with the stories from back home.

By encircling the the area below the navel, within the body from sensing and refining the qi, one could observe the Dantian. That was his working theory. Even though he didn't remember much, he felt he was instinctively heading in the right direction. Perhaps some aftereffects of the Opening Heaven Scripture.

Zhen had a huge advantage in this department. The golden words gave him some otherworldly insights, providing him with the ability to see things from a broader perspective and his own perspective was different from others.

To search for the Dantian within the body, he focused his attention on visualizing the process. Each breath drew in vital energy, while each exhalation expelled impurities, purifying and refining the qi.

Drawing from that knowledge, Zhen visualized his Dantian in the center where the stars were congregating. He imagined his Dantian as a confined space akin to a gas chamber. With each breath, he envisioned his qi condensing, gradually circulating and moving towards the Dantian.

As Zhen immersed himself in deep meditation, the formation of his ninth star commenced. Through the meticulous control of his breath, he imagined the qi coalescing, circulating with faster and faster speed. As the ninth star formed, it was as if it was the arrowhead pointing to the Dantian. His curiosity got the better of him as he took a peek at the area.

A glimpse of an empty sphere surrounded by what he sensed were sturdy walls covering the whole surface appeared in his mind. In front of the strength of the walls he felt, his eight stars seemed pitiful in comparison.

But before he could observe more, he felt his qi destabilizing.

His qi started to go more haywire. Quickly suppressing the agitated state, sweat began to form on his brow. His mind was not made to focus on a single thing for so long.

The star moved ever closer to the Dantian, but he only focused on forming the star. With the constant supply from the Qi Gathering Formation, the star grew increasingly bright. Each passing moment brought it closer to absorbing and erupting.

He focused his attention, directing his qi through the intricate network of meridians within his body, refining as it passed through previous stars. Suddenly, the ninth star started vibrating and pulling the qi inside them as they began to spin.

His mind was entirely focused, trying to maintain control over the wobbly, greedy absorption of his qi. The qi in the cave depleted rapidly but replenished at the same time without any break.

Suddenly, his compressed star expanded, unleashing a surge of energy akin to a dam breaking free. In that exhilarating moment, his qi took on a milky white hue, signifying its heightened purity, which soon returned to a colorless state

A surge of power coursed through Zhen's body, almost doubling the vigor of his qi. The meridians, once tranquil conduits, now roiled turbulently, circulating the amplified energy within his being. The very air around Zhen seemed to ripple with the energy unleashed.

He had broken through.

Zhen opened his eyes, shining brightly with the immense influx of energy. Everything went according to plan, other than that little wobbling.

With a sense of relief, he surveyed himself. Initially, after theorizing about the Dantian, he had intended to achieve the ninth realm of Qi Condensation first and then comprehend the Dantian. However, with his supposedly untrusted knowledge, the enlightenment from the golden words and his active mind, he reversed the order.

While the change in order may seem insignificant, it held tremendous significance. Or that was how he felt. The ninth star had also moved closer to the Dantian, and he could sense an illusionary sphere at the centre of his circling nine stars.

Hopefully he had established a robust and formidable foundation.

"Finally, I can rest easy. Zhen sprawled in the centre of the circle in exhaustion as the sweat soaked robes plastered on his back.

These past few days had not been easy for him. Except for occasional bursts of strength increment, he used all his free time to break through. He resembled a man possessed, with his sole purpose fixated on raising the numbers and advancing his practice.

However, as the saying goes, heaven rewards the diligent. Zhen had forged a sturdy foundation and was happy with what he had accomplished. A sense of security washed over him…

Then his mind wandered to his unfinished business of getting targeted. Now, he could finally try to find the culprit.

He was excited and jumped up. But suddenly, as if a cruel reminder from his body, he grimaced in pain. "Ow! Crap! Muscle cramps..."

 

[DaoTian]

Li Zhen squinted as the sunlight pierced through the clouds, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow on the cave entrance. The clear blue sky and the warmth of the sun, after a week of seclusion in the cave, felt almost foreign to his skin and irritatingly bright to his eyes.

The cave's rich qi air had been dense, almost suffocating with its potent energy, making every breath invigorating.

Now, the fresh, clean air outside felt strangely light and thin in comparison, almost as if it lacked the same life force he had grown accustomed to. For a moment, he felt like he was at the top of a mountain with less oxygen in the surroundings. He hacked a cough as he tried to suck in more air, his lungs struggling to adjust to the difference. Just what I needed— an open-air suffocation experience.

The sensation was disorienting, making him acutely aware of just how much he had come to rely on that concentrated qi environment. That dense qi... it was intoxicating, like continuously guzzling triple shots of espresso. How am I supposed to adjust back to normal air?

From his memory, he knew that it had been ten days since he had holed up inside. It was as if he had stepped from a vibrant, energy filled sanctuary into a world that was somehow more ordinary, more mundane.

After being brought to this sect, Li Zhen cultivated for two years after reaching fifteen years, now I had become Li Zhen with my Ninth Realm of Qi Condensation. Who doesn't know what to do next…

During his seclusion, he had relied on the fasting pill—a magical concoction that could provide enough nutrients and energy for the body to last a month. He still doesn't feel peckish. In his previous world, something like this would have been dubbed a godly medicine, but here, it was merely an extremely ordinary pill.

There was a stone path leading down from the cave entrance. In the distance, he could see outlines of mountains all around. But they were way too far. Instead of gawking around, he walked with purposeful strides, trying to project confidence, though internally he was disoriented.

Even if you're lost, no one needs to know. What if that bastard who wants to kill him is here? The winding paths, the towering trees, and the distant silhouettes of mountains added to his sense of bewilderment.

After wandering for what felt like an eternity, he stumbled upon his first real challenge in this new world: he was lost. No one had given him a tour or any directions, and the previous Li Zhen was busy with his breakthrough to memorize the way when a worker brought him here. Of course, I'm lost. Why would anyone bother with something as trivial as directions?

He scanned his surroundings, searching for a familiar face or a landmark. His gaze settled on a man clad in white robes with blue highlights, moving with the ease of familiarity through crossroad ahead. The robes were intricately embroidered with silver threads and the the blue highlights accentuated the flowing lines of the fabric.

Gathering his composure, Zhen approached the person. "Excuse me," He called out, his voice steady despite his inner turmoil. Hopefully, no one would notice he was an imposter.

The man turned, sharp jawline gave him a commanding presence, while his piercing blue eyes flickered to the path Li Zhen had travelled. "Junior Brother Li Zhen," the man greeted him with a wry smile, "you really used quite an amount of qi. We were almost hung dry collecting starlight qi." His hair was a deep black, tied neatly at the back of his head.

Zhen's eyes twitched slightly as he turned to look at the sprawling mountain, dotted with countless caves. The idea that his qi usage had nearly drained their resources seemed absurd. Supplying qi for a single Qi Condensation Realm cultivator, they had been sucked dry? Like hell it was possible. But how does he know my name?

"Thank you, but I must confess I do not know who you are," He admitted, feeling a bit sheepish as there was no memory of the man in previous Li Zhen's memories.

The man chuckled, a knowing look in his eyes. "Ah, where are my manners? I am Feng Ling, a senior disciple assigned to oversee the Nominal Area Qi Gathering Cave. It is my duty to ensure everything runs smoothly and to assist newer disciples like yourself."

So this is my enterprising senior brother. Zhen nodded, filing away this information. "Then I would like to thank Senior Brother for his help with Junior's cultivation," He cupped his hand and bowed slightly, maintaining a veneer of politeness despite the absurdity of the claim.

Feng Ling handed him a parchment. "What is this between brothers? Here is the receipt."

Zhen accepted the parchment, his eyes scanning the neatly written characters. He felt a mix of amusement and frustration. The fines and increased costs were steep, but they were part of the sect's stringent rules, or so he hoped. One could never be certain in a demonic sect, but the paper seemed real enough.


Final Receipt of Usage

Nominal Disciple: Li Zhen
Contract Period: 10 days for the breakthrough to the Ninth realm of Qi Condensation

Additional Costs:

• Fine for exceeding qi usage: 200 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones
• Increased qi Cost (3x): 995 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones

Total Dues: 1,195 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones

Nominal Area Qi Gathering Caves
Disciple Feng Ling


This place is a business as much as a sect. How am I supposed to pay this? Zhen looked up from the parchment, meeting Feng Ling's expectant eyes. The air between them grew thick with an unspoken tension, Feng Ling's gaze unwavering as he awaited an answer.

"So, when is Brother Li Zhen planning to pay the amount?" Feng Ling asked, his tone casual but with an edge that hinted at the seriousness of the matter.

Zhen felt a flush of embarrassment creeping up his neck. He knew he had no immediate means to settle such a hefty fine. The reality of his situation was stark. Li Zhen had already used all his savings. He mustered a sheepish smile, trying to mask his discomfort.

"Ah, Senior Brother Feng Ling, I... I must admit that I am currently not in possession of enough spirit stones to cover the fines," He confessed, his voice steady despite the flutter of anxiety in his chest. "Is there perhaps a way to... work off the debt or some arrangement that could be made?"

Feng Ling's genial expression turned cold as he frowned. "It's not uncommon for new disciples to find themselves in such situations. The sect does have provisions for this."

Zhen's heart sank at the change in Feng Ling's demeanor, but he kept his composure. "I understand. I am willing to do whatever is necessary to resolve this."

"You don't have to go that much." Feng Ling seemed to consider this for a moment before his gaze sharpened with curiosity. "I was also quite curious what you were doing with all the qi. Could I check your realm?"

Zhen hesitated for a moment, feeling a prickle of unease. He had spent an inordinate amount of qi, but not in a way that would be immediately apparent to an outsider. Still, he had no choice but to comply. "Of course, Senior Brother Feng Ling."

Feng Ling extended his hand, his fingers lightly grazing His wrist as he closed his eyes in concentration. Silence stretched between them, the only sounds being the rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. Feng Ling's brow furrowed for a second as he probed Zhen's qi, and then his expression started growing more subtle.

"So Junior Brother is practicing Cultivation Renewal..." Feng Ling commented after releasing his hands.

Cultivation Renewal? What's that supposed to mean? Is he onto something? I don't know if I'm practicing anything other than Hundred Stars Refinement. Zhen looked at him in confusion. "What is Senior Brother talking about?"

Feng Ling gave him a subtle smile. "It's alright if Junior Brother doesn't want it known." He gave him a knowing wink. "With your firm foundation, we could easily forgo sending you to the mines to recover our money."

Li Zhen felt cold sweat breaking out. Is that what the sect does to disciples who can't pay their debts? The previous Li Zhen had only heard rumors about that place.

Rumor had it that once a disciple was sent to the mines, they rarely returned to the surface unchanged. The work was grueling, often pushing them to the brink of their physical and mental limits. There were stories of promising cultivators whose spirits were broken, their ambitions crushed under the weight of unending labor. Many don't even return. The main sources of death in the mines were spirit beast attacks and encountering toxic fumes during mining.

He shuddered at the thought. The previous Li Zhen had always believed these tales to be exaggerated, but now, faced with the possibility, they seemed all too real. Thankfully, he seemed to have dodged a bullet with this misunderstanding and his firm foundation.

"Then I don't have to go to the mines?" He wanted to be sure.

"Junior Brother is joking. With your foundation, you have countless prospects and can easily enter the Outer Sect. Then you could easily pay it back."

Zhen released a sigh of relief as they descended the mountain. Just as he thought the crisis was averted, Feng Ling snatched a paper that appeared from thin air.

His eyes widened in astonishment. Spatial storage! He had heard of such mystical items, but seeing one in action was entirely different.

"Junior Brother, this is the standard loan agreement. You could pay the money in three months, or interest will be charged at 10 percent per month."

His astonishment turned to dread. Zhen stared at the parchment, the neatly written characters a stark reminder of the exploitive reality. Can't I catch a break?


Loan Agreement

Nominal Disciple: Li Zhen
Amount Due: 1,195 Qi Condensation Spirit Stones
Repayment Period: 3 months
Interest Rate: 10% per month after the repayment period

By signing this agreement, you acknowledge the debt and agree to the terms of repayment.

Signature: ____________________

Nominal Area Qi Gathering Cave
Disciple Feng Ling


Interest? At 10 percent per month? That's practically robbery. He took the paper, feeling the weight of his new obligation. "I understand, Brother Feng Ling. I will make sure to repay it within the given time." He sent his qi as the area under his signature filled with his name.

Feng Ling nodded approvingly. "Junior brother doesn't have to care too much. You should first enter Foundation Establishment, then you could easily pay it back. The interest might seems large but it would be pocket change in Foundation Realm."

Hearing the words, his mouth twitched. The loan document clearly stated that the interest was compounding per month. They really don't miss a chance to squeeze every last bit out of you, do they? Does this senior of his want him to be a debtor forever?

"Then I would do as senior brother says." Like hell, he would. He would pay it back as soon as possible. No way am I letting that interest pile up.

Feng Ling then handed him a small, intricately designed badge. "Here is your Quasi Outer Disciple Badge. Go to the Outer Sect Hall to finalize the procedure."

He took the badge, noting its straightforward design. It was a modest piece of jade, cool and smooth to the touch, with a faint green hue that caught the light. The badge had the sect's emblem engraved in the center: a stylized phoenix in flight, its wings spread wide, surrounded by intricate swirling clouds.

He slipped the badge into his robe, feeling its reassuring weight against his chest. "Thank you, Brother Feng Ling. I will head to the Outer Sect Hall right away."

Feng Ling gave him a nod of approval. "Good luck, Junior Brother. Make the most of this opportunity and be sure to pay."

 

[DaoTian]

After leaving Feng Ling behind, Zhen breathed a sigh of relief as he clutched his Loan Agreement. His mind was a whirlpool of thoughts. This cultivation world seemed surprisingly advanced with believing in future promises. Wasn't the path to immortality supposed to be riddled with constant danger and frequent death? Could the Abyssal Harmony Sect be this stable, or was there something he was missing?

The previous Li Zhen had taken these questions at face value, leaving him with more questions than answers.

As he walked, he felt the qi coursing through his body, a sensation both thrilling and strange. He remembered martial arts moves he had seen in movies, and though he knew he couldn't fly, he felt an irresistible urge to test his limits. With a quick look around the deserted path, he decided to indulge his curiosity. He bent his knees slightly, gathering qi into his legs, and leaped into the air.

The burst of energy sent him soaring a good ten feet into the air, covering a distance of about twenty feet. The sensation was exhilarating—his heart raced as the air rushed past his face, the ground rapidly shrinking beneath him. This is insane! I'm really flying—well, sort of. For a moment, he felt invincible, a broad grin spreading across his face.

However, as he began to descend, the ground seemed to rush toward him with alarming speed, and panic set in as his grin faltered. Wait, how do I land? He flailed his arms, trying to regain balance, but his body was still unfamiliar with controlling qi. I didn't think this through!

Steady, steady... I can do this! His legs stiffened in preparation for the landing, but he misjudged the force and the strength of his new body. He hit the ground hard, stumbling forward as his feet skidded on the dirt path.

He managed to regain his balance after a few awkward steps, his heart pounding in his chest. Ouch! Okay, maybe not my finest moment. He looked around, hoping no one had seen his less-than-graceful landing.

Phew, that was close. Gotta practice that more. Despite the rough ending, a part of him buzzed with excitement at the possibilities of what he could achieve with more practice.

Walking towards the Outer Sect Hall, he noticed something different in the air— it felt heavier and more alive with qi. The feeling returned to the time when he was in the cave. Though it was still far away from the qi-saturated cave, it was more substantial than the Nominal Sect Area.

The path to the Outer Sect Hall was lined with other disciples wearing various color robes. In contrast, he wore the simple gray robes of a nominal disciple, marking him as a newcomer, a fresh face among seasoned practitioners.

He sifted through the memories of the previous Li Zhen, realizing that nominal disciples rarely ran errands. It was a menial task that could be pretty profitable if one had a powerful backer. But I don't. The supply of tasks from the outer disciples was far fewer than the number of nominal disciples.

He could feel the weight of their stares. He tried to read the people around him, deciphering the subtle cues to survive. The other disciples looked at him like he was an easy target, someone they could push around. They stood taller, their backs straight, trying to intimidate him with their presence whenever he made eye contact. He knew they saw him as weak, just another stepping stone in their path to power. My robes might as well be a bullseye on my back.

But he didn't let it show that he was bothered. He kept his face calm and walked steadily. Inside, though, he was alert and cautious.

Just as he was nearing the Hall, a figure in bright emerald robes, denoting her higher status, stepped gracefully toward him. She was a Senior Sister, her face framed by a friendly smile that contrasted starkly with the intense scrutiny of the others.

She had delicate features, a serene expression, and long black hair that flowed like silk down her back and contrasted nicely with her fair skin. Her eyes, though friendly, held a depth that suggested she was not to be underestimated.

A jade beauty, huh? Maybe not. He didn't feel the loss of reason or infatuation, so perhaps she wasn't that beautiful to him. While she was attractive, his expectations were relatively high in this regard for the cultivation world. However, he was wary of her seemingly kind demeanor. Better stay on guard. You never know what kind of shenanigans might be at play here.

"Junior Brother," she greeted warmly, offering a slight nod. "You must be new. I'm Lian. It can be a bit overwhelming here, but you'll get used to it."

Did my confident stride fool no one? He was confused as to why she thought he was new but returned the greeting with a bow. "Thank you, Senior Sister Lian. I'm Li Zhen. It's a lot to take in."

Lian chuckled lightly, her eyes twinkling. "I remember my first day; it felt like walking into a den of lions. You're going to the hall, right? "

Zhen nodded, cautious but polite. "Yes, Senior. I'm trying to find my way around."

"Come, I'll show you to the hall," Senior Sister Lian offered with a friendly smile.

As they walked together, Lian's easy manner helped dissolve some of the tension Li Zhen had felt. Okay, maybe she's genuinely nice, but better safe than sorry. Her robes swished gently around her ankles, her stride confident. "We're having a little gathering tomorrow night for a few of the newer disciples," she mentioned casually as they approached the massive doors of the hall. "It's nothing formal, just a chance to relax and meet everyone. You should come."

Now she knew I was newly promoted too? He was surprised by the invitation but knew he had to be cautious. Uncertain of the existing alliances and rivalries, he decided on a non-committal response. "Thank you for the invitation, Senior Sister. r. I'll come if I can make it. But how did Senior Sister know I was newly promoted?"

Lian smiled knowingly. "Well, Junior Brother, you're leaking your Qi like a broken jar. It's easy to tell you've just entered the ninth realm."

He felt a flush of embarrassment at the simple reason and quickly tried to rein in his Qi, realizing how evident his inexperience must have been. Focusing inward to control his energy more tightly, he tried to keep the qi only inside his body.

As they approached the Outer Sect Hall, he took a moment to appreciate the building from the outside. It was a grand and imposing traditional Chinese tower with a pagoda-style roof, the tall, ornately decorated walls and eaves were adorned with intricate carvings of what looked like war to him.

The dark wooden doors were wide open, with many disciples bustling in and out, each engaged in their own tasks.

Lian turned to him just outside the massive doors. "Junior Brother, I have some matters to attend to. Remember, the gathering is tomorrow night. It'll be a good opportunity to meet other disciples and get acquainted with Outer Sect."

He nodded, maintaining his polite demeanor. "Thank you, Senior Sister Lian. I'll keep that in mind."

She smiled warmly. "Take care, and don't hesitate to ask if you need any help. We're all here to grow together." With that, she gave a final nod and walked away, leaving him at last. Gathering, huh? Maybe I should go.

He took another deep breath and stepped inside. The interior was just as impressive. There were many doors leading to different rooms and a grand staircase that spiraled upwards. He was met with the organized chaos typical of a large, active sect.

Disciples bustled about, each absorbed in their duties or conversing in low, urgent tones. The hall itself was expansive, with high ceilings supported by ornate pillars, and the walls were adorned with tapestries depicting the sect's storied history.

In the hall's center was a large reception desk, where a stern-looking elder was seated, busy with paperwork and directing the flow of disciples. To the left wall, there was a massive bulletin board covered with various notices, announcements, and missions. And on the far right side of the hall, there were holding cells. He could see a few individuals inside, some bound in chains, their expressions ranging from defiance to despair.

Curious, he walked over to examine them more closely. The holding cells were made of sturdy iron bars, each equipped with a simple cot and a small table.

Outer Sect Hall's Public Criminal Prison

The prisoners were provided with basic necessities—food, water, and even some rudimentary bedding. It was far from luxurious, but certainly more than he had expected for criminals.

His gaze then shifted to the large post beside the cells, detailing the crimes and the cost of bailing out each prisoner. He read the descriptions one by one.

The first prisoner was a man in his late twenties, with a lean build and sharp features. Kang Wei — Stole Spirit Herbs from the Alchemy Hall. Bail: 1,378 Foundation Building Spirit Stones.

Next was a woman with long, unkempt hair and a cold, steely gaze. Mei Ling — Found killing Elder Ye Zu. Bail: 30 Foundation Building Spirit Stones.

Looking at Mei Ling's bail, he wasn't sure if the elder's life only cost 30 Foundation Establishment spirit stones, or if there was something else behind the scene.

The last prisoner that caught his eye was a man in his thirties, his face weathered but his eyes still sharp and calculating. Qin Rong — Spied for the Azure God Sect. Bail: 5,243 Foundation Building Spirit Stones. The sheer amount demanded for his release was staggering.

Spirit stones are a fundamental resource in this cultivation world, he recalled from the memories of the previous Li Zhen. All spirit stones are harvested by cultivators at their respective stages, and the qi inside corresponds to those levels.

They serve not only as a currency but also as a vital resource for cultivation and various alchemical processes. Li Zhen had only seen Foundation Building spirit stones from afar. They were larger and more radiant than the ordinary ones he was accustomed to, pulsating with qi dense enough for cultivators in the Foundation Building.

Surprisingly, many of the prisoners were in good condition, their faces resolute. Aren't prisoners supposed to be, I don't know, suffering? He pondered as he heard a few bystanders talking.

"The number of spies is increasing. We found another one in the alchemy garden yesterday."

"Yeah, I heard the sect discovered some kind of treasure in the mines. That's why everyone's getting so jumpy."

Treasure in the mines? Interesting. That area was one of the most rumored places for previous Li Zhen. And spies... this place is more complex than it seems.

 

[DaoTian]

As he observed the prisoners, a small group began to form around one particular cell. A tall, broad-shouldered man with a scar running down his left cheek approached Qin Rong's cell. His presence commanded attention, and more disciples gathered to watch the spectacle unfold.

"Well, Qin Rong," the man said with a smirk, his voice dripping with disdain, "I heard the Law Enforcement extracted all the information from you."

Zhen moved closer, drawn by the intensity of the confrontation.

Qin Rong's eyes blazed with anger, the veins in his neck bulging as he spat back, "You think you know everything? You know nothing, fool. My sect—"

The man cut him off with a harsh chuckle. "Oh, save it. Send your pathetic emergency talisman to your sect. Maybe they'll bail you out to save face. Then I could get a cut from dragging you here."

Qin Rong's face turned crimson with fury, his fists clenching so tightly that his knuckles turned white. "You wretch! I'll see you rot before I give you anything!"

The man chuckled and stepped back, clearly enjoying Qin Rong's reaction.

Qin Rong's fists clenched as he struggled against his restraints, his eyes burning with hatred. The onlookers murmured amongst themselves, clearly entertained by the exchange.

So Qin Rong could only serve as a money bag. The sect really is greedy enough to extract every spirit stone. Sure, it was cutthroat and merciless from previous Li Zhen memory, but it also had its moments of sheer absurdity that he was experiencing.




Moving on, he joined the line of Outer Disciples waiting for their turn at the reception desk. The air buzzed with chatter, the line moving steadily. As he waited, his attention was drawn to the disciple before him. A sword was strapped to the back of the red-robed disciple.

The man at the reception desk raised an eyebrow slightly. "Ah, Lan Mei, it's good to see you again. Did you fail to complete your latest mission?"

The red-robed disciple shifted slightly, revealing a more delicate frame than he had initially noticed. A cold, clear voice addressed the elder, and he realized with a start that the disciple was a girl. "No, Elder Zhou. The traitors have been dealt with."

Elder Zhou nodded, starting to return to his no-nonsense demeanor. "It's alright if you fai— Wait, did you say you eradicated them?"

"Yes, Elder Zhou. They will no longer be a threat to our sect." Lan Mei placed a blood-soaked bag on the desk, red droplets dripping from it.

Zhen almost lost his stomach as the smell of the blood assaulted his nose, and he saw three round-shaped objects inside the bag. His heart raced as he realized they were the severed heads of the traitors. The sight was shocking, a harsh introduction to the brutal realities of the cultivation world he had only expected but not experienced personally.

Elder Zhou's stern expression faltered, "Wasn't the mission issued only three days prior?" He muttered as he checked inside the bag.

Thankfully for Zhen's stomach, the elder only gave it a casual look before the bag, and all the bloodstains were removed with a flick of his wrist. A smile tugged at his lips as he leaned back slightly. "Impressive, Lan Mei. You continue to exceed our expectations. The sect is fortunate to have you."

Lan Mei bowed slightly, her expression softening for a brief moment. "Thank you, Elder Zhou. I will continue to serve the sect to the best of my abilities."

Elder Zhou's smile faded, his demeanor once again serious, but with a hint of pride in his eyes. "Good. Report to the Law Enforcement if you want to deal with more traitors. And take some time to rest; you've earned it."

As Lan Mei turned to leave, Zhen maintained his eyes straight toward the reception. He didn't want to cause problems by trying to observe this ruthless cultivator. Sure enough, jade beauties and sword cultivators should be kept at arm's length.

Next, it was his turn.

At the reception desk, the elder had already returned to his no-nonsense demeanor. His gaze flicked over Zhen, assessing him with a brief, calculating look before nodding slightly, seemingly approving of his composed demeanor.

"Name?" The elder's voice was brisk, with none of the earlier warmth, more like a command.

"Li Zhen," he responded clearly, meeting the elder's gaze with steady eyes.

The elder's eyes flicked over him again, this time with a hint of curiosity. "Nominal Disciple Li Zhen, why are you here?"

Zhen maintained his composure under the scrutinous look. "I'm here to receive my Outer Sect uniform and badge, sir."

Handing over the badge given by Senior Brother Feng Ling, he watched as the elder's expression softened slightly.

"When did you reach the ninth realm?" the elder asked in rapid-fire succession.

"This morning," Zhen replied.

"Where?"

"Inside the Qi Gathering Cave."

"Show me your previous badge."

"Here." Zhen produced the old badge that he found in his robes, holding it out.

The elder took it, eyes flicking over the details, before asking a few more questions. As Zhen answered the rapid firing of questions, the elder picked out a register. He noticed a quill floating in the air, its tip scratching across the parchment as it recorded the information. Then, the elder reached under the counter, bringing out a neatly folded set of robes and a small, velvet-lined box.

The elder handed the items back to Zhen. "Here are your Quasi Outer Sect robes and your disciple badge. The badge must be worn at all times within sect grounds. It's your proof of identity and rank."

He accepted the robes and badge, feeling the weight of the fabric and the cool metal of the badge against his skin. The robes were a deep blue, almost black, with intricate silver embroidery that shimmered subtly in the light. He opened the box to find a badge made of polished, dark metal etched with the sect's emblem—a soaring phoenix.

"Thank you, Elder Zhao," he said, accepting the items. He felt the weight of the badge in his hand, a tangible symbol of his new beginning.

"Now, as for your duties," the elder continued, "you are required to complete one non-intensive task for the sect in the next six months. You can choose from tasks like working in the spirit garden, going outside for expeditions, or clearing the Devil Cave. If you're looking for something that pays more, check the bulletin board over there."

The elder pointed towards a large wooden board on the wall to his right, filled with various postings. "Most new disciples start with simpler tasks—tending to the spirit gardens, guarding the sect's lesser halls, or assisting in the kitchens. These tasks help you integrate and understand the daily workings of the sect while in your six months grace period."

Zhen's mind, however, was already on more ambitious goals. "Which of these tasks would be the most financially rewarding?" he asked, his tone casual but his intent clear.

The elder replied promptly, as if he had been asked this question numerous times before. "If it's the spirit stones you're after, check the bulletin board for assignments outside the sect. Some involve more risk, like escorting traders or gathering rare ingredients from the wilds, but they pay accordingly. However, going outside might hinder your growth to become a Foundation Establishment."

"Thank you for the advice, honorable elder." he said, turning towards the bulletin board to inspect the postings more closely. Being courteous should have earned him some brownie points.

Just as he was about to take a step, Zhen felt his body stopping. He was confused and a little fearful as his body turned towards the elder automatically.

"Youngsters these days are always in such a rush," the elder commented with a similar sharp tone. "Your registration is not completed. You'll have the chance to select one Foundation Establishment martial arts technique from the Martial Arts Pavilion. In three months, you would get permission to either pick a new refining technique or upgrade your previous technique. Now sign your name here."

Elder Zhao forwarded a register with a entry in his name. The previous Li Zhen memory easily helped him understand the language so he made a quick sign.

Zhen waited, expecting more information. Elder Zhao glanced at him and added, "That is all you need to know. You can go now."

Thanking the elder, Zhen stepped towards the bulletin board, scanning the various postings. The board was cluttered with flyers and scrolls, each describing different tasks with their corresponding rewards. There were tasks for gathering herbs, hunting beasts, and even more dangerous assignments for higher.

Some were mundane, suited for those looking to avoid risk, while others promised adventure and substantial payment for those willing to brave dangers.

Zhen's eyes skimmed over the postings,

Gather ten Moonlight Herbs from the Misty Forest - 5 Foundation Establishment spirit stones.

Escort a merchant caravan to the Western Pass - 7 Foundation Establishment spirit stones.

Hunt down the Ironclaw Bear in the Blackwood - 22 Foundation Establishment spirit stones.

He mentally calculated his options, considering the dangers and rewards. His debt loomed in his mind, pushing him to seek the higher-paying, riskier tasks.

I need to solve the question of my debt. And fast. Nothing else matters right now. Zhen paced around one of the corners of the Outer Sect Hall, feeling the cold wood floor beneath his foot.

He cast a glance at the task board, examining the available options for what felt like the hundredth time. After ten minutes of scrutinizing the list, he had a rough idea of all the tasks available. Most of them fell into two categories: inside and outside sect tasks. Unsurprisingly, the tasks outside the sect paid more.

He paused, contemplating the choices before him. Tasks inside the sect would allow him to maintain a rigorous cultivation schedule, crucial for reaching the Foundation Establishment without disruptions.

He would have the time and stability to focus on his practice, making steady progress without the added dangers of the outside world.

On the other hand, the tasks outside the sect offered higher pay, a tempting prospect that could help him clear his debt much faster. But the risks were significant. Venturing outside the sect meant facing unpredictable dangers, and the time spent away from his cultivation could slow his advancement, possibly jeopardizing his long-term goals.

The dilemma chewed at him, pulling him in two directions. Inside sect tasks offered a safe and steady path, aligning with his long-term aspirations of progressing through the cultivation realms. Yet, the immediate pressure of his debt made the lucrative outside tasks tantalizingly appealing.

As he debated the question, he weighed the long-term benefits against the short-term urgency. Tasks inside the sect meant a slower, more secure route to power, while outside tasks promised quick relief but at the risk of his future potential.

Finally, after thinking long and hard, Zhen made his decision. The long-term goal of reaching Foundation Establishment and beyond was too important to jeopardize. He needed stability and uninterrupted practice to ensure his future strength. With a sigh, he resolved to take the tasks inside the sect, accepting that the path to clearing his debt would be slower but safer.

But there should be other ways for him to earn spirit stones. He should be able to monetize his daily insights from the golden words.

 

[DaoTian]

Zhen's first priority was to secure an inside job with the sect, but he wasn't opposed to exploring other ways to make money. Absentmindedly, he found a secluded corner and started going through other money-making schemes.

The distant hum of conversations and the hurried steps of disciples filled the air, but he was oblivious to it all, lost in his thoughts. He extended his fingers, counting the potential methods one by one.

He lifted his index finger, his brow furrowing in concentration. First was Selling Techniques and Scriptures.

What if I sold some of the scriptures and techniques that I would know using the golden words? Although he had only tested the ability on Hundred Stars Refinement, the prospect of learning advanced techniques and scriptures seemed plausible if he could find their distilled versions. Even if it wouldn't be a new scripture, it could at least upgrade any of the scriptures and techniques he might target.

He spent a few moments mulling over the idea, visualizing himself in clandestine meetings, passing scrolls to eager buyers. But then he dismissed it with a shake of his head.

While his knowledge was valuable, he was too weak to demand the proper value for it. The sect likely had these scriptures in their library, and selling directly to disciples would raise uncomfortable questions he wasn't ready to answer.

He sighed, lowering his index finger, dismissing the idea, and raised his middle finger. Selling Guidance.

This comes back to my golden words, Zhen thought, tapping his chin thoughtfully. He had spent plenty of time getting answers from the golden words on anything that he used the ability on. From cultivation questions to mundane details. Maybe he could help disciple solve their problems.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


There were many obscurities about his ability, but the Insights were what Zhen was sure about. Unfortunately, while this knowledge could guarantee a smooth journey to at least the same realm as his, it faced the same issue as selling techniques and scriptures.

He was too weak, and no one would believe his advice, let alone pay for it. Advice from peers was rarely helpful, and targeting those lower than him wouldn't work either—they were as poor as he was. He crossed out the second idea.

Next, Zhen raised his ring finger, Selling Formations Or Maybe Pills.

The golden words had already helped him learn the Starlight Convergence Qi Gathering Formations. Perhaps he could sell his service by constructing formations he learned from the golden words. His mind conjured images of intricate formation patterns, glowing with ethereal light as they channeled qi. But the problem was whether they were restricted by the sect or if there was exclusivity.

He had similar concerns about pills. Although he hadn't checked a pill with his ability, he was seventy percent sure he could get the pill refining method. He imagined rows of bubbling cauldrons, the rich aroma of herbs filling the air. But again, sect restrictions and exclusivity issues arose. But not by that much, as pills should be staple supplements for these cultivators. Even the previous Li Zhen used quite a number of pills.

A little mollified, Zhen put down the ring finger and raised his pinky finger, thinking of his fourth idea. Rather than chasing extra income, he could concentrate on his cultivation progress. After all, wasn't this the typical path of fated cultivators in the world who forged their path? His past problems could be solved with a wave of his hand when he is strong enough.

Advancing his own cultivation would not only ease his path but also enhance his allowance from the sect. There could be future options that he could easily pursue, but there was also the risk of falling deeper into debt once the interest period was activated.

After thinking it over, he decided to postpone the money-making schemes and go for stability inside the sect. If an opportunity arose, he would try to search for general formations and normal pills to sell within the sect. Hopefully, the golden words would help him produce higher quality products. But for now, planning in detail was simply counting his chickens before they hatch. At least, he know a direction.

Heaving a sigh, Zhen made his way through the crowded hall to the reception. After another period of waiting, it was again his chance.

The elder, already deep in the next set of paperwork, glanced up with a hint of surprise and mild irritation. "What is Nominal Disciple doing here again so soon?"

Ignoring the slight rebuke, Zhen took a deep breath. "Do I have to select a task right now?"

The elder's initial curiosity lessened a little, creasing his brow. "You don't have to snatch up a task right this second. You can head back to the nominal area. Sort out your advancement first; tasks can wait."

Zhen's brows furrowed slightly. Shouldn't he be moved to better housing and transferred to the Outer Sect Area? He voiced his thoughts, trying to ensure he understood every detail. "And housing? Do I move into the Outer Sect quarters now?"

The Elder scoffed as soon as Zhen stopped speaking. "Stay where you are until you've cracked Foundation Establishment. You don't just get handed the keys to a better place because you got a new badge."

Zhen mind raced. What the hell? I don't get free housing? All those days of diligent practice, and I still have to worry about a place to stay. The thought of missing out on the dense Qi in the Outer Sect area gnawed at him. That Qi would skyrocket my cultivation, he mused, imagining the power he could attain.

Moreover, moving into the Outer Sect would mark a clear division from the life of the previous Li Zhen. It was a step towards solidifying his own identity in this world. He took a deep breath, determined to push further. "Is there no way to move into the Outer Sect Area?" he asked, a hint of suggestion lacing his words. Surely, there must be some way around this.

The elder's irritation melted, and he raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. Slowly, he set down his pen and removed his glasses, wiping them with a cloth from his sleeve in a deliberate, thoughtful manner. Leaning back, he finally spoke, "You really don't give up, do you, Li Zhen? It's rare to see such stubbornness."

Zhen straightened, feeling a flicker of hope ignited within him. This is it, he thought, a chance to finally break free from the confines of the nominal disciple quarters.

The Elder paused, studying his face before continuing. "The Outer Sect is divided into Twelve Peaks. You have to be selected into one of the peaks to move into their region."

Zhen's eyes brightened with curiosity. The faint lines of worry on his face relaxed slightly. It wasn't much, but it was a start. "And how do I get selected?"

The elder's eyes met his, "Each peak has its own criteria and trials. You'll need to prove your worth. Or wait for the quarterly mass advancement period." He paused for a moment, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Sometimes, new positions that are crucial to the sect or particularly demanding can come with the perk of improved accommodations. These aren't typical, but they do exist."

Positions that come with better accommodations? This could be my chance. Zhen's interest deepened. "Are there any new positions available right now?"

The elder leaned forward, lowering his voice even further. Zhen mirrored his action, leaning forward as well.

The elder glanced around, ensuring no one else was listening. The disciples behind him suddenly appeared engrossed in their own tasks, their chatter fading into the background. "As a Quasi Outer Sect Disciple, you would receive one Foundation Establishment Spirit Stone at the end of each month," he said, his tone suggestive.

Zhen's heart leaped with joy. One spirit stone a month just for being a disciple? His mind raced with future plans. The idea of receiving resources for being a quasi disciple was beyond his expectations. But before he could fully revel in his fortune, the elder's next words brought him back to reality.

"Of course," the elder's expression turned suggestive, as if expecting something in return for this information. "some information like this isn't freely given."

Zhen's excitement dimmed as he realized the elder expected a bribe. He cursed inwardly but knew he had no choice but to accept. It was already his idea, but spending his money before seeing was too much. "How much?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

The elder smirked, a look of satisfaction crossing his face. He reached for another register, made an entry, and then handed Zhen a small pouch. "Here is your monthly allotment of spirit stone."

Zhen took the pouch, confusion washing over him. His fingers traced the edges of the pouch, noting its lightness. He opened it, only to find it empty. Realization dawned, and he gritted his teeth, understanding that the bribe had been taken upfront.

"You could start by helping with the construction effort for a new spirit garden in Jadecrest Peak," the elder suggested. He sighed, as if debating whether to delve into the details for a mere one foundation establishment spirit stone, then shrugged. "This project involves setting up a mild Qi density cultivation area. It's high stress and high responsibility. Screw up, and you affect the sect's future supply of healing salves, potions and cultivations resources. But manage well, and you get not just better pay, but also a living space in the Outer Sect quarters to keep you close to your work."

Zhen nodded, absorbing the information. "Where can I find more information about this role?"

The elder opened a folder and handed Zhen a sheet. The parchment felt heavy in his hand, filled with detailed script. "These tasks are on a need-to-know basis, but this should qualify you. Make sure you understand what you're signing up for. These roles aren't for the faint-hearted or slackers." His tone was stern, almost challenging, as if testing Zhen's resolve.

"Thank you, I will," Zhen responded, grateful for the honest advice.

With a deep breath, Zhen decided to take the plunge. This task could fast-track his integration into the sect's core activities and establish his own advancement.

The details were daunting, outlining the precision and dedication required to manage the garden effectively. The list of potential pitfalls seemed endless, but so did the benefits.

As he read, Zhen envisioned himself amidst rows of rare herbs, the rich scent of medicinal plants filling the air. This could also be the perfect opportunity to gain insights and ingredients for a future pills business, he thought, excitement bubbling within him. It was a challenging task, but the rewards were worth it: increased pay, better living quarters, and a denser qi percentage than the sect grounds.

He approached the elder again, who looked up with his same no-nonsense demeanor. "I'll take on the spirit herb garden task."

The elder nodded, his expression slightly less stern. "Very well. Report to Jadecrest Peak in a week at dawn. You'll meet the head disciple for the task there, and they'll brief you on your duties."

 

[DaoTian]

Li Zhen stirred as a beam of sunlight pierced through a narrow crack in the thatched wall, casting a warm glow across his face. He blinked, slowly emerging from the depths of sleep, his mind gradually becoming aware of the unfamiliar surroundings.

As he shifted, the bed beneath him responded with creaks and groans, each movement causing the old wood to protest. The lumpy and worn mattress offered little comfort, a major inconvenience compared to the life Zhen had once known. He lay still for a moment longer, listening to the creaking bed, the sound almost rhythmic, like a song of the past echoing in the present.

He inhaled deeply, the scent of aged paper and dried herbs filling his nostrils, grounding him in the present.

With a soft sigh, Zhen swung his legs over the side of the bed. The old frame groaned in response, the sound almost a part of his morning routine now. He stretched, feeling the tightness in his muscles ease slightly, the remnants of sleep slowly fading away. The cool wooden floor against his bare feet sent a shiver up his spine, waking him further.

Rubbing his eyes, he stood and moved towards the window, drawn by the light. The dust motes danced in the sunbeam, tiny particles swirling and shifting like stars in a miniature galaxy. He reached out, the light warming his fingers, and for a brief moment, with a simple mental nudge from him, he felt the qi in the air responding and flowing in the room. It was far more sparse than the Cave, but it was still a new experience for him. Ten days had passed in this cultivation world, and it was his first sleep in a normal environment.

As he stood there, the reality of his situation gradually sank into his mind. He was no longer in the world he once knew, no longer the same Zhen. The memories of his past life felt like shadows, distant and intangible. Transmigration—he still marveled at the thought. The concept seemed so foreign, yet here he was, living it.

"This is my life now," he reminded himself, the words echoing in his mind. "A new world, a new identity." He could feel the weight of those words settling in, grounding him further in this reality. The previous Li Zhen's memories were now his, and he had become Li Zhen.

The hut was modest, constructed from weathered wood and thatched with straw, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Sparse furnishings decorated the interior: a low wooden table, a simple cot with a straw mattress, and a few shelves lined with scrolls and trinkets.

After washing himself behind the house, Zhen stood quietly in front of a simple mirror in his sparse hut; his gaze fixed not on his reflection but on the air just before him. Dressed in the new outer sect robe —a young man of modest yet pleasing appearance with warm eyes and pale skin stared back at him. Though he was pleased with his appearance, it was the least of his concerns.

The fabric felt soft against his skin, a constant reminder of his promotion. As he adjusted the robe, his gaze wasn't drawn to his own reflection— but rather, his focus was intensely fixed on the space just before him where golden words floated gently in the air.


Sage's Daily Scroll of Heavenly, Earthly, and Mortal Insights.
Target: None


The golden words burned in the air silently. He already had wasted one day without using his ability for fear of being discovered. Despite the allure of using it now, Zhen's mind was preoccupied with a pressing concern. He needed to confirm they were invisible to others, a secret that could keep him safe—or mark him for danger.

He watched, almost holding his breath, as the golden words shimmered. Looking back into the mirror, he found no trace of them reflected. A sigh of relief escaped his lips, easing the tension that had tightened his shoulders.

Stepping away from the mirror, Zhen pondered the potential disasters that could unfold should anyone ever glimpse these words. The mere thought sent a chill down his spine, an icy reminder of the precarious edge on which he now balanced.

While one might assume it was a given that others couldn't perceive the golden words, as it was his ability, Zhen was not one to leave things to chance. There were too many uncertainties about this whole thing, so it was a given that he would be extra careful.

His mind buzzed with the implications of his power being exposed. Such a revelation could lead to envy, fear, or worse, manipulation by those craving his abilities.

Only a tiny rumor of possession of a tressure had pressured the previous Li Zhen to rush his cultivation, resulting in his death. Now, Zhen harbored a new, powerful ability, one that could tempt cultivators to commit crimes and murder. The stakes were even higher; such a power, if discovered, could unleash chaos, turning his journey into a blood bath.

With these sobering thoughts, Zhen exhaled slowly, banishing the remnants of doubt clinging to his mind. Straightening his back, he looked into the mirror one last time and then turned to leave the small hut that used to belong to the previous Li Zhen.

This confirmation gave him the confidence to proceed and move forward without the haunting fear of being watched or exposed. Still, he knew he had to test his abilities on some unsuspecting people first.

He gathered the few things he owned—just ten Qi Gathering Spirit Stones that made a soft jingling sound in his pocket. The previous Li Zhen had hidden them in a secret place in the wall for emergencies.

Only ten. Zhen sighed, feeling a bit defeated. Compared to his debt of over a thousand, this was barely one percent. But beggars couldn't be choosers, so he stopped his whining.

For now, he had one week before his tasks began. He could use this time to cultivate in the nominal area and learn the martial arts technique Elder Zhao had informed him about.

With everything of value tucked away, Zhen stepped out of the hut, the door creaking shut behind him. The world outside vastly differed from the humble interior he had just left. The Nominal Sect area sprawled before him—a lush expanse of green plants and trees dotted with thatched huts scattered at decent distances from each other. Yet, for all its visual appeal, the air was thin, barely carrying the qi that cultivators sought.

The terrain was covered in greenery, with tall grasses swaying gently in the breeze and clusters of wildflowers adding splashes of color. The trees were ancient, their thick trunks twisted and gnarled, branches reaching out like the arms of forgotten giants. Moss and lichen clung to the bark, giving the forest an emerald hue.

Despite the abundance of plant life, the qi density was so low it was almost nonexistent. In his old world, Zhen would have seen this place as a paradise. But here, where qi was essential, this beautiful place held little value. To a true cultivator, it was like a barren wasteland.

He could easily imagine this place as a neglected corner of the sect reserved for its nominal disciples. The air carried a sense of desolation, reinforcing the area's status as a place for those who were barely considered part of the sect.

The path he took was a narrow, well-worn dirt track that wound its way through the huts, worn down by the footsteps of countless others who had walked it before him. The ground beneath was uneven, with roots and rocks jutting out. As he walked, the leaves rustled softly in the morning breeze, and the scent of fresh foliage filled the air. The lush surroundings created a stark contrast to the barren qi environment.

Occasionally, he passed other disciples who bowed their heads in his direction. For a moment, confusion flickered across his mind—why the sudden respect? The previous Li Zhen had never received such treatment. Then he realized it was due to the clothes he now wore, marking him with a higher status than before.

Thinking like this, Zhen walked toward the Martial Arts Pavillion leisurely, enjoying being in a different world with a higher status. Approaching the nominal area gate, his ears caught the rise of voices—a commotion that drew his curiosity.

A small crowd was in front of him, which Zhen slowly approached.

"He Shan, why didn't you pay us your protection fee? Are you trying to disrespect Senior Brother Xiao Hong, huh?" A tall figure shouted at the top of his lungs, accusing a young man.

Zhen remembered the guy—the local serpent. His name was Wang Bo, a man with a personal history of animosity with the previous Li Zhen. Wang Bo worked for Xiao Hong, an inner sect disciple who had made it his mission to target him. As memories of their past encounters flooded his mind, Zhen's hands clenched into fists.

But then Zhen took a deep breath and controlled himself. Even though the memories were vivid and raw, he knew seeking revenge wouldn't help him now. His fingers slowly unclenched and he let the tension drain from his body. However, one thing was sure—he would never allow himself to suffer like that again.

"Being the lackey of Xiao Hong must be fun for you? I'm not paying your protection fee," He Shan said defiantly.

Wang Bo's face twisted with anger. "Looks like you need a reminder of your last beating," With that, he lunged forward, his foot connecting with the young man's stomach with a sickening thud.

The crowd collectively recoiled, taking a step back as the violence erupted. A few faces twisted in shock and fear, while most of the onlookers leaned in, eyes gleaming with morbid curiosity. Hushed whispers and gasps rippled through the gathered people, a mixture of excitement and dread.

He Shan doubled over, clutching his midsection, pain etched across his face. Yet, there was a fire in his eyes. He struggled to his feet, his breaths coming in ragged gasps, "You might be stronger now, but don't underestimate the young. I'll come for you someday," he spat, each word dripping with defiance.

Looking at the youth who seemed to exude an aura of determination to go against the world, Zhen paused momentarily. This youth also had left a strong impression on the previous Li Zhen.

From his memories, Zhen recalled He Shan, who was one year younger than him and had caused quite a stir during the spiritual root assessment ceremony.

His talents were quite good, at least above average, but his rapid rise in strength was exceptional. There also had been talk of an Inner Elder taking an interest in the boy, possibly choosing him as an Inner Disciple. But all that crumbled when his cultivation was abruptly destroyed during a sect mission outside.

He Shan had reached the ninth realm before the previous Li Zhen, but Li Zhen was also the fastest cultivator for his generation of nominal disciples.

Even though it was not a match for genius, it was almost a miracle for him to have made such progress with his mid grade spiritual root, which was one of the reasons for the rumor of him having a treasure floating around.

It's always the promising ones that attract the most enemies, Zhen reflected. When you're at the top, everyone wants to knock you down. And when you fall, they're all too eager to kick you while you're down.

He Shan had made his share of enemies, and people who were jealous of his potential.

 

[DaoTian]

Zhen stepped back into the shadows, his mind racing. The scene before him was a perfect blend of tension and drama, straight out of the cultivation stories he loved.

Rising quickly means you make enemies just as fast. They see your success as a threat and will do anything to see you fail. The previous Li Zhen had more than his share of those who wanted to see him broken.

Gazing at the unfolding scene, Zhen decided to stay low key in the sect, avoiding unnecessary drama. Observing the lives of others from the shadows would suffice; there was no need to add more chaos to his own.

This boy, once a rising star now reduced to a target of mockery, embodied the harsh realities of this cultivation world.

"So full of himself," one voice sneered.

"He needs to be put in his place," another chimed in.

"How can a commoner like him think he can rise above us?" a third mocked, disdain dripping from their words.

Zhen's eyes flicked to the third speaker, narrowing as he took in the opulent, embroidered robes marking the man as someone of high status in the mortal world. He noticed others in the crowd turning to look at the man as well, their eyes flashing with greed.

Someone's going to have a bad day. His gaze lingered for a moment before he turned back to the scene, his expression unreadable. From previous Li Zhen's memories, it was pretty common for nearby mortal empires and kingdoms to send their nobles into the sects. Although most didn't have a good ending.

Zhen focused his attention back to He Shan. Even the previous Li Zhen couldn't escape the irrational contempt he held towards the fallen youth. As Zhen observed him, he noted the crowd's lack of pity or concern.

Instead, degrading murmurs filled the air, their eyes glinting with malicious satisfaction. The cultivation world was merciless; the strong preyed upon the weak without a second thought.

Is this guy a protagonist? Zhen mused inwardly. A young man who had seemingly lost his cultivation, despised and loathed by others, yet still alive with all those enemies around.

It's not possible that all his enemies turned stupid, right? It's a perfect chance to settle some score with He Shan, but he is still here getting into more fights.

Maybe he really is a protagonist. Destined to encounter fortuitous events and embark on a journey of slaying gods and demons while surrounded by a bevy of beautiful women— this was the standard template for a protagonist.

It's like watching a show unfold before my eyes. If he really is a protagonist, things are about to get interesting. And I have a front-row seat.

Moreover, this guy's name is He Shan... meaning Rivers and Mountains. Does he have a special physique or maybe hidden potential? Zhen's mind raced, his eyes narrowing in intrigue as he constructed a fine show for himself to enjoy.

Of course, this single incident alone wasn't sufficient evidence to confirm He Shan's status as a protagonist. But for his peace of mind, Zhen examined him carefully. He noticed He Shan wore no rings or necklaces that might suggest a hidden expert or artifact capable of changing his fate dramatically.

Double-checking, he shoved the idea to the back of his mind as there was no sign of a cheat. No signs of a hidden expert or artifacts. Just raw determination. Still, it's too soon to tell.

But before he could extricate himself, Wang Bo's furious gaze turned toward him.

What? Hey, why are you looking at me?

"Li Zhen, where the hell have you been for the last ten days?" Wang Bo barked, his eyes narrowing suspiciously. The crowd's attention shifted to Zhen, curious to see how this new development would unfold.

Two of the rising stars of Qi Condensation were present here, and even he would have taken out popcorn if he had not been targeted.

Does that mean the previous Li Zhen was also a protagonist? Does it mean I'm a protagonist? Nah, he stopped himself from spiraling. That was not a good direction to go. I'm just an above-average cultivator.

Zhen noticed Wang Bo's gaze flicker briefly to his new, more elegant robe before focusing back on him with anger.

Does he not fear my rank? I'm an outer disciple now, fatty. Quasi outer disciple, but that was semantics for him. Zhen subtly sensed the qi flowing through his meridians to give him some backbone.

He had no desire to attract unnecessary drama, preferring to keep to himself. However, if trouble came walking his way, he had no intention of backing down. Allowing a problem to fester could only create larger issues in the future.

Zhen straightened his posture, exuding a calm confidence. "Why do you care where I've been?" he replied evenly, meeting Wang Bo's glare without flinching. "I see I walked into something interesting."

Wang Bo sneered, taking a step forward. "Interesting? This isn't a show for your amusement. Why don't you move along before you get yourself into trouble?"

The words hung in the air, carrying a weight that made the crowd hold its collective breath. Zhen's tone was casual, almost indifferent, yet the underlying challenge was unmistakable. Disciples around him began to distance themselves, sensing the rising tension.

Zhen, however, remained unperturbed. His recent breakthrough to the ninth realm had given him confidence. No one in the Nominal area could match him now. Even if he failed, at most, it would be a tie. Being equal to the strongest could also solve many of his problems.

It was also a perfect chance to break from Wang Bo's clutches. Even though he couldn't fight the inner disciple yet, it doesn't mean he had to take a beating from his lackeys.

And this was his first chance to assert his place in the sect. Zhen wasn't going to wait for a crisis to defend himself. Wang Bo was the perfect opponent for honing his abilities and trying to test himself.

"Trouble?" Zhen smirked. "The only trouble I see here is you bullying someone weaker than you."

Wang Bo's face darkened with anger. "You think you're better than us now, don't you? Just because you've been off training?"

"It's not about being better, Wang Bo. It's about knowing where you stand. And right now, you're out of your depth," Zhen said, his voice steady.

Wang Bo's eyes blazed with fury, and he lunged forward, shouting, "You arrogant—"

In that instant, Zhen noticed the silhouette of talons forming around Wang Bo's hands and the unmistakable presence of qi radiating from his attack. The air around them crackled with energy, and a hush fell over the crowd.

"He's using eighth realm strength!" someone in the crowd murmured.

Zhen's smirk widened. He felt his suppressed qi billow out, rushing to his arms like a dam breaking. He didn't know any advanced techniques, but his first try to jump had given him a rough idea of how to strengthen his body with qi.

The raw power coursing through him was intoxicating, a surge of potential that made his skin tingle.

As Wang Bo's talons struck, aiming for his chest with precision, Zhen crossed his arms in a fluid motion. The qi infused his muscles, hardening them like steel.

The impact was instantaneous and violent, a clash of titanic forces. The talons stopped dead upon touching Zhen's crossed arms, unable to penetrate the hardened muscles.

For a split second, there was a shared look of surprise. Zhen wasn't sure who was more shocked—Wang Bo, who had expected to easily overpower him, or himself, for effortlessly stopping the attack.

He only wanted to put up small resistance so that Wang Bo might think twice before attacking him. Not this impenetrable wall that he just showed.

"Zhen's at the ninth realm?" another voice in the crowd shouted in awe.

Finally, the onlookers noticed the elegant robe Zhen wore, a mark of his recent advancement and status.

He took advantage of the momentary shock and shoved Wang Bo back, qi rushing through his body. The force sent Wang Bo stumbling, his expression a mix of anger and disbelief.

He Shan, still clutching his midsection, looked up at Zhen with a mixture of pain and admiration. "Thank you," he said, his voice strained but sincere.

Zhen gave a slight nod. "It's alright. I didn't do it for you," he replied. Even though this kid has the potential to be someone great, I can't afford to get involved too deeply in his matter. Friends of the protagonist never have any good endings. Staying low-key is the safest route.

He thought that the matter was solved but he noticed He Shan's eyes widen in shock, the disbelief evident in his gaze.

For a moment, He Shan's mouth opened as if to speak, but no words came out. Slowly, as if processing his words, he gave a nod of acknowledgment.

Zhen's curiosity piqued. What goes on in the mind of a possible protagonist at a moment like this?

With a sudden look of determination, He Shan exclaimed, "I won't forget this kindness, and one day, I'll repay you tenfold!"

Zhen's mouth dropped open in surprise. Did he thought that I was doing it for him? I clearly said I didn't! Shaking his head, he only muttered, "Do whatever you want."

Then Zhen looked at the still shocked Wang Bo and waved his hand dismissively, as if swatting at an insect. "Go away, Wang Bo. You're not worth my time."

Wang Bo's eyes blazed with fury, but he took a reluctant step back, recognizing the shift in power dynamics. For a moment, it seemed he might back down, but then his face twisted with renewed rage.

"You think you can just wave me away like a fly?" Wang Bo shouted, his voice echoing through the area. He clenched his fists, and a palpable surge of strength emanated from him. "You dare to humiliate me?"

 

[Oriks]

I understand that this is a big moment for Zhen, letting him figure out where he stands and getting a 'protagonist' in his debt. Still, I'm almost never a fan of minor confrontations spanning multiple chapters. That's kind of what a chapter is for in the first place; to separate one event from another, not to segment a single event.

If you want to stretch the confrontation a bit longer, consider going with, say, a 3,000 word chapter. 2,000 words is already on the shorter side, and while I can understand keeping it manageable for the sake of quicker chapter releases (which is a valid choice for a serial work), it's a bit silly to split up a small event just because you're hard limiting the word count.