《Master of Origin: Path to Eternity》 Chapter 01: Rebirth in a Familiar World Chapter 1: Rebirth in a Familiar World I was once an ordinary person, obsessed with reading cultivation novels. I even tried writing my own, but my creativity fizzled out after the first two chapters. Life was simple until my untimely death. Unbeknownst to me, my dream-fantasy came true. I traveled back in time to one of the novel worlds I had attempted to write. My name is now Ye Tian. In this world, I found myself in the body of a five-year-old orphan, born to parents who were friends of the White Cloud Sect''s leader. They died on a mission, leaving me alone in the outer sect. White Cloud Outer Sect, Ye Tian Residence The residence was poor and not so big there''s a hole in roof. Suddenly while practicing under a tree, ye tian had a strange sensation. A vision materialized in my mind ¨C two cliffs facing each other like a huge gate, with a river flowing nearby and a forest on the other side. "I know this place," Ye tian thought. "It''s the restricted area on the White Cloud Sect''s map, infamous for ferocious beasts." This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Why did this image appear in my mind? It felt like an inexplicable feeling, it''s like something is calling me. "I must go there," Ye tian decided. "No one will notice my absence anyway." As he pondered, a delicate voice interrupted his thoughts. "Junior Brother Tian, you skipped the hall again today. Is someone bullying you?" Su Ling, the sect leader''s daughter and core disciple of the inner courtyard, stood before me. Her beauty was captivating ¨C jade-like skin, blue dress, and hair that cascaded down her back like a waterfall. "I know my situation, Senior Sister," Ye tian replied. "My body''s not strong enough for Foundation Building." Su Ling handed me a small box containing a Body Tempering Pill with 5 strokes, the highest quality available in Cloud City. "Take it, Junior Brother," she said with a gentle smile. "This will help you build your foundation." Ye tian clenched my fists, resolve burning within him. "I'' must become strong." They gossip for a long time. After Su Ling left, ye tian began preparing for body tempering. Ye tian took the pill and meditated. Two days passed. He opened the eyes to find his body covered in a black layer. As he stood, the layer cracked and fell apart, releasing a pungent smell. Ye tian rushed to shower and refresh myself. The pill''s energy had nourished his body, releasing all 108 acupoints. Ye tian felt like he is reborn. --- Chapter 02: The Secret realm Chapter 2 : The Secret realm After taking a short rest, Ye Tian went to sleep. At dawn, someone came to his door; it was Su Ling. "Junior brother, are you really going?" "Yes, it feels like if I go there, all my dreams would come true. Don''t worry, Junior Sister; we can communicate through Connection Jade." "Your dream, what is it? Why don''t I know?" Su Ling said with a puffed face. By Su ling''s word ye tian remembered his life before reborning here. His face became blank. "Junior brother!! Say something!? " With a shout su ling wake ye tian up. "I want to live forever but also want to become strong. Strong enough to do whatever I want. And aslo.... Senior sister, look how beautiful you are. Night''s full moon doesn''t come near your beauty; you are like a fairy. If I want to catch your eye, don''t I have to become stronger?" "Do whatever you want "Su Ling said, her face red. "Hehe." "Fine, I have to go now. Bye, Senior Sister." "Junior brother, I''ll wait for you," Su Ling said and disappeared through the main gate. Ye Tian wanted to avoid trouble, so he took the forest route to Twin Cliff Mountain, his destination. It would take half a month to get there. Ye Tian cultivated along the road, taking breaks. He aimed to reach the Foundation Building stage before reaching his destination. On the 5th day at night, Ye Tian advanced to the Foundation Building stage. At dawn... "Finally, I succeeded... I''m so glad today, after so many years, I finally advanced." Ye Tian ended his meditation and stretched his body, feeling immense power. Ye Tian entered the forest route and started heading to his destination. On road he encountered many wild beasts but none of them was that much of a threat to him. After half a day, Ye Tian noticed a crowd before a cave. Ye Tian followed the crowd to see what was there. Many cultivators were present, but their highest cultivation base was the early Foundation Building stage. This cave led to a secret realm, opening soon. Ye Tian learned about it through nearby people. He asked some of them for info. Ye Tian decided to take a look. He was confident in his stealth technique and he aslo to out a mask to hide his face, Ye Tian observed from a corner, unnoticed. Soon, the seal opened with a bright golden glow. "It''s open; everyone let''s go!" "Hehe, I''m going to be rich," someone nearby said. Ye Tian also went in after some time. The inside world was beautiful, full of spiritual qi, with rare spirit herbs nearby. Ye Tian took all the spirit herbs with roots as he went deep. He headed to the West Side of the realm. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Soon, Ye Tian sensed a presence - a Wind Wolf bearing its teeth. Ye Tian took out his sword and glared at the wolf. The wolf jumped, and Ye Tian struck its legs. The wolf was weaker but wild. Ye Tian defended himself, then concentrated his power and struck the wolf''s belly. Ye Tian''s condition worsened; he took the wolf''s core and sought refuge. Ye Tian found a mountain cave resembling a bird''s nest. "What kind of nest is this? It''s so big." Ye Tian walk around and found a suitable place to seat. He took a pill and started meditating. a while day Passed. Ye wake and started searching the cave. There were many herbs and ores. He took them all inti his ring. Ye Tian observed the cave, noticing its cleanliness. At the innermost part of the cave in a corner. There was a passage led to the cave''s deep inner part. He decided to explore this passage. On the road there''s many drawing of a fights though it became blurred. The innermost part, Ye Tian found an blue-green colored egg. Ye tian was excited after seeing the egg. He without careing touched the egg. A light flashed, and a beautiful woman appeared, dressed in the same color as the egg. Ye Tian noticed killing intent. "...Wait... I won''t do anything. I just came by chance and saw the egg. .....If you don''t mind, I would like to take it and let it hatch somewhere outside. It would die at this rate." Ye Tian said, but the lady seemed to ignore his words. Ye Tian avoided her attacks, defending himself with his sword.tgey started fighting not hearing any word of each other. Cave started shaking because of fight. After a long time the winner remain undecided. Ye tians was not good . Blood dropped from side of his mouth. Suddenly, the cave''s energy started concentrating around the lady, and she transformed into a magnificent blue-greenish bird. With a gust of wind from the bird, Ye Tian flew backward and hit a stone wall, spitting blood. The bird continued its attack, seemingly losing its senses. Ye Tian was badly injured, And the bird was powerful. He hide behind a big rock. The bird attack Continues. It''s it lost it''s reason and just a empty shell which knows only to attack. Ye Tian noticed the spiritual qi of the surround the big bird was unstable. "Cough! Cough!" Ye Tian''s body was tattered. "It seems this bird is going to dissipate. I''m going to attack with all my power." Ye Tian released his spiritual energy, concentrated it on his sword tip, and charged towards the bird. Both were at the end of their rope. "The last struggle between death''s door. Die!" With a shout, Ye Tian''s sword touched the bird''s body, and an enormous explosion occurred. Ye Tian flew into the wall, crying out, and dropped to the ground, unconscious. A blue-greenish feather landed near him. One hour later, Ye tian wake up he was full of brushes all over his body. He quickly took some pill and stuff it on the mouth and started circulating the energy. Ye tian noticed two feathers were on the ground. He went and took the feathers in his hand and suddenly the feathers transformed into the blue-greenish-dressed lady, with an unmatched appearance. Both looked the same, but this time, there was no killing intent to be found. The lady walked towards the egg and hugged it, and tears came out of her eyes. Ye Tian came out from behind the stone. The lady looked at Ye Tian and, with a sorrow-filled but dignified face, asked, "Do you want to take this egg?" "Yes, Senior!" Ye Tian replied. "You can take it, but you have to promise me one thing: that you won''t harm it in any way and let it hatch," the lady said. "Senior, from the first, that was my intention. I promise I''ll take care of it and protect it. You can rest assured," Ye Tian replied. "My time is up. After I vanish, take the feathers and use them to nourish the egg. Thank you. You must keep what you promised," the lady said. By saying that, the lady vanished into thin air, leaving two feathers behind. Suddenly, the whole cave started shaking; it was a sign of the secret realm closing. Ye Tian quickly took the egg with the whole nest and left the cave. Using his presence-hiding move, he started moving to avoid any conflict. Everyone was sent back outside from the secret realm and started fighting for treasure. Ye Tian watched two people fighting for treasure, then hid his presence and ran deep into the forest. ------ Chapter 03 : Whispers of the realm (1) Chapter 3 : Whispers of the realm (1) Ye Tian straight went for his destination, the Twin Cliff. This place was a restricted area where the Twin Cliff was located. After three days of continuous running, Ye Tian reached near the cliff. This place was mysterious. "I reached the place; what should I do now?" He thought. "I would never have known that the sect''s restricted area would be this big." Ye Tian pondered. "Let''s search this place first." Ye Tian looked every corner near the cliff, but there was nothing. Confused, Ye Tian set up a camp and started meditating; he was tired. Suddenly, the same scene came to his mind like that day, but this time, after some time, a light flew out from the middle of his eyebrows. That light went into the air and stopped at the middle between the two cliffs, and the ground started shaking. "What''s happening? What happened here? Am I going to die?" With a sudden scream, Ye Tian fell into a round gate-like crack from beneath his leg. He went unconscious. Some time later, after he woke up, he found himself in an unfamiliar place. He clearly remembered a part of his soul flying there, then the gate opened. After some confusion, he noticed that the spiritual energy in this place was much more abundant than outside; it was like an immortal paradise. This place was big, with a large mansion and a somewhat big pond with water flowers in the outer part. Ye Tian went near the pond, and it was beautiful. Ye Tian went inside; he was looking around carefully as he walked. The inside was not flashy; there was an artistic vibe. Ye Tian sat on the floor, confused. "What is this place? Why is it attracting me?" Suddenly, Ye Tian''s face became pale, and he jumped from the floor and stood in a corner, looking everywhere. "Who?" The reason Ye Tian became like that was that the moment he thought the question about what this place was, something came into his mind, and he knew what this place was. It was called the "Origin Place." But there was no explanation about what this "Origin Place" was. Ye Tian curiously asked in his mind, "Why is this place attracting me?" But this time, there was nothing that came into his mind. Ye Tian didn''t give up; he tried again. "Why am I here?" This time, something came into his mind; Ye Tian became surprised. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "So I''m the master of this place." Ye Tian pondered, "Why am I the master of this place? Isn''t this just a rebirth in this world?! What''s happening!" Ye Tian became more confused, but there was no answer. Ye Tian looked around; there were many doors, one after another, side by side, but all locked. Ye Tian stood in front of a door; the door was ordinary. He tried to open the door, but nothing happened; he tried some more times, but the result was the same. Angry, Ye Tian took out his sword. "Since you won''t open normally, I have to use force." Saying that, Ye Tian struck at the door, but not only did nothing happen to the door, Ye Tian was thrown back by a powerful force, though nothing serious happened to him. Ye Tian tried some more doors, but all had the same result. Annoyed, Ye Tian went back to the front room where he was sitting. "What should I do now?" He thought. Suddenly, something came into his mind. Ye Tian touched his chin as he pondered for a moment, finally saying out loud, "Fine, I''ll become the master of this place." The moment Ye Tian said it, a huge amount of golden light appeared and rushed into Ye Tian''s forehead; there was no end to it. Overwhelmed, Ye Tian lost consciousness and dove into a deep sleep. But the light continued pouring into his forehead. After some time, the light started spreading to other parts of his body and finally covered all his body. After an unknown amount of time passed, Ye Tian was still unconscious. Suddenly, a finger moved, following the legs, and at last, his eyes opened; Ye Tian stared at the roof blankly. Finally, he regained his senses. But there was something off. Ye Tian started examining his own body. "What''s this? Why do I feel so light? Wait! I broke through? Not only did I break through, but three levels at it!" "How much time passed away?" Ye Tian thought. Suddenly, a message came to his mind, and Ye became surprised. "So there''s a surprise in my knowledge sea, right?" Ye Tian started checking his knowledge sea but became even more surprised by seeing what was in front of him. A cultivator''s knowledge sea is one of the most important things to him. The bigger one''s knowledge sea, the stronger one''s potential; each person''s knowledge sea is different from others; some are big, some small. Although it also varies with one''s cultivation rank, Ye Tian was astonished because his knowledge sea had become enormous, beyond his imagination. But there was something else in his knowledge sea. "What''s this?" Ye Tian wondered. A response came, revealing it was an extremely rare treasure, one-of-a-kind, named "Soul Soothing Lotus." It floated within his knowledge sea. Suddenly, another response came to Ye Tian''s mind, prompting him to sense his surroundings. Without hesitation, Ye Tian focused on his environment and became speechless. "What the! I can see all the surroundings without moving. Wait, there''s a room door open; it''s the book hall." Ye Tian''s eyes widened in awe, marveling at his newfound abilities and the mysteries unfolding before him. -------- Chapter 04: Whispers of the realm (2) Chapter 4: Whispers of the realm (2) From the very beginning, Ye Tian was quite curious about what lay inside the doors. Finally, a door opened, revealing a book hall. "Wow! A door opened.... But why now? Is it because I became the master of this place?" Ye Tian pondered. "Whatever, let''s go and see what''s inside first." Ye Tian hurriedly ran towards the door. This time, when he pushed it, there was no resistance. "What is this? The hall is so large; the shelves are floating," he exclaimed. "How many manuals are there?" At that moment, a response came to his mind, instructing him to stand at the center of the hall, where a formation was located. The hall was incredibly large, with various cultivation manuals, books, and teaching materials on the shelves floating in the air. Ye Tian started looking around the books. After some time, he arrived in front of the formation. It was so profound that even Ye Tian, who was not a formation master, could feel its power. "Let''s see what happens!" Saying this, Ye Tian stepped into the formation. Suddenly, his body started glowing with golden light, and a small box flew towards him. The box opened, revealing a cultivation manual inside. "Five Elements Origin Qi Method" was written on one scroll. "Why can''t I read the others?" Ye Tian tried to grab the manual to examine it more closely, but he couldn''t. It was as if there was nothing inside the box but a reflection. Suddenly, Ye Tian thought of something and sat down in front of the box. He opened his knowledge sea and tried to understand the manual. Ye Tian''s knowledge sea started vibrating, and words began to appear out of nowhere, floating in front of him. "So this is Five Element Origin Qi; it''s amazing. Though I don''t understand anything now, what about the other manuals?" Ye Tian opened his eyes and noticed that the Five Element scroll had vanished. A vague response came, saying, "When the time comes." After that, Ye Tian took some manuals and sword arts for his use, but what was strange was that he couldn''t take any of them out of the hall. So, he stored all of them in his knowledge sea. This time, the manuals didn''t disappear. "Finally, it''s done. I have to return; who knows how much time passed." Ye Tian left the hall, preparing to leave the place. At that time, a token appeared in front of him with a message saying that with this token, he could enter from any place and open a teleportation gate. The token was golden, but when Ye Tian grabbed it, it became golden light and vanished from his hand, leaving a thunder mark. "What''s happening?" He panicked, but what could he do? He looked at the mark, but there was nothing wrong. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Finally, it was time to go. A teleportation portal appeared, and before leaving, Ye Tian placed the egg nest in a location with high spiritual qi concentration. A teleportation portal appeared in the forest, and a young man walked out. His condition was not good. "Where is this place? Let''s check first." Ye Tian hurriedly looked around to realize that this place was near the sect''s restricted area entrance. Ye Tian hurriedly left the forest. After some travel, the Outer Sect gate appeared. Ye Tian stepped through the sect''s entrance, his weary eyes scanning the familiar surroundings. He was struck in the same realm for five years, and his journey had finally taken him to the Twin Cliffs. The experience had been exhilarating, yet daunting. As he walked toward the Outer Sect''s residential area, whispers followed him. "Ye Tian''s back... Heard he went to the Twin Cliffs..." Rumors spread quickly within the sect. Ye Tian''s thoughts drifted to his encounters at the Twin Cliffs. The secrets he uncovered would change everything. Thinking about his journey, Ye Tian went to his residence ¨C the same hut with a broken roof. It was a familiar feeling. The next day, Ye Tian visited the sect''s information hall, seeking news about recent events. There, he learned that one and a half months had already passed, and he was missing. After learning about recent events, Ye Tian walked out of the hall. Instead, he found himself confronted by a group of disciples. "Ye Tian, did you find anything in the Restricted Area?" one disciple demanded. Ye Tian''s instincts flared. "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Without saying anything, the disciples attacked. "If you know what''s good for you, quickly give what you got from there, or get ready to be beaten up." But Ye Tian was prepared. Unbeknownst to Ye Tian, someone else was watching them from a tree. Her veil blended into the surroundings as she observed Ye Tian''s confrontation. "Something''s wrong," she whispered. Ye Tian stood firm, his eyes narrowing at the disciples. " "What do you want?" Ye Tian asked, hand on his sword hilt. "We know you went to the Restricted Area; you must have gotten something. Some disciples saw you in the secret realm that appeared some time ago," one disciple sneered. "Tell us what you found." Ye Tian''s jaw clenched. "I won''t tell you anything." "Don''t know what''s right from himself," a disciple laughed. "We have Liang Zhang behind our back; don''t resist." The disciples attacked, their movements swift and coordinated. Ye Tian drew his sword, parrying blows with precision. Ye Tian countered a disciple''s strike, but another attacked from behind. Ye Tian dodged, his movements fluid. A disciple landed a kick, sending Ye Tian stumbling. The veiled lady''s eyes spiked. "No, no, no!" she whispered, hastening to jump out from the tree. As Ye Tian struggled to regain footing, the veiled lady burst into the fray. With silent efficiency, she took down two disciples. Her movements were a blur, her sword slicing through the air. Ye Tian''s eyes widened, surprised by the sudden aid. The remaining disciples retreated. "What the... who is she? Retreat! Ye Tian, just you wait for us!" They fled in disarray. The veiled lady took a glance at Ye Tian, ensuring his safety. For a fleeting moment, their eyes met. Then, she vanished into the crowd, leaving Ye Tian stunned. Who was she? Ye Tian wondered, still reeling from the battle. He sensed a familiar scent ¨C a mesmerizing aroma that stirred memories. That scent... it''s the same as the medicine bottles. Ye Tian''s thoughts swirled with questions. Who was this mysterious woman? Why did she help him? And what did she want? As he walked away from the scene, Ye Tian noticed a figure watching him from afar ¨C her emerald eyes gleaming with interest. -------- Chapter 05 : Reflection Of Past Chapter 05 : Reflection Of Past A fter the clash with the disciples, Ye Tian returned to his residence. His body, still buzzing from the battle, yearned for rest, but his mind had only one focus¡ªcultivation. He sat cross-legged in the center of his humble room, closing his eyes and drawing in a deep breath, clearing his thoughts. Slowly, the energy of the world around him began to gather. As Ye Tian meditated, something peculiar happened. He could sense five distinct types of qi. Each one had a unique feeling: one was warm like fire, another was soft like flowing water, another was solid like earth, and two others, elusive yet present, reminded him of the wind and the strength of metal. He gasped inwardly. The Five Elemental Origin Qi! The energies swirled around him, slowly entering his dantian, filling it with power, and then expanding into his sea of knowledge, where they seemed to settle into their own places, a balance of fire, water, earth, wind, and metal. "This... what does it mean?" Ye Tian wondered. His cultivation was progressing faster than he had imagined possible, but this new discovery puzzled him. Still, there was no time to linger on it now. He needed more resources to fully understand his newfound ability. Leaving his residence, he made his way to the point exchange hall. It''s already a new month and everyone will there points. "I wonder how points would I get this month" Ye tian lost his matches so he don''t get point through battles with disciples. He would exchange herbs and sweep the sect to get some points. He had been here many times before, exchanging herbs and other resources for cultivation materials. As he approached the counter , the familiar scent of dried herbs and spiritual plants filled the air. his gaze caught something¡ªor rather, someone¡ªunfamiliar. A veiled lady, her presence quiet yet commanding, stood behind the counter assisting with the exchanges. Her face was mostly hidden, but her eyes were striking. As their eyes met, Ye Tian felt a strange sense of familiarity, though he quickly dismissed the thought. He wasn¡¯t here to dwell on such things. He stepped forward to inquire about a particular herb that had caught his attention. "I¡¯d like to exchange for the White Spirit Grass," he said. The attendant glanced at the ledger, her eyes flickering with a calm expression before replying, "The White Spirit Grass requires 15 points one leaf." Ye Tian hesitated, his face betraying his thoughts. He reached for the small pouch of points he had gathered, knowing it wouldn¡¯t be enough. "How many points do I have?" The attendant checked his balance. "You have 20 points." His face tightened. 1 stake weren¡¯t even close to enough. He clenched his fist, frustrated at how quickly the gap seemed to widen between him and the resources he needed for his cultivation. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. "You¡¯ll need more points if you¡¯re serious about getting this whole herb," the attendant continued, her voice as soft as the wind, but the veiled lady behind her remained silent, simply watching him. "I understand. I¡¯ll be back," Ye Tian said with resolve, stepping back from the counter. As he turned, he felt the veiled lady¡¯s gaze linger for a moment longer before she returned to her tasks. After his visit to the point exchange, Ye Tian¡¯s frustration turned to determination. The White Spirit Grass was essential for his next step in cultivation, but earning enough points through the usual methods would take far too long. ¡°I¡¯ll gather the herbs myself,¡± he decided. The wilderness beyond the sect was vast and filled with spiritual plants, though it was also dangerous. Still, the risk was worth the reward. The next morning, Ye Tian set off to gather information about the best places to find the herbs he needed. The sect''s library held records of various plants and their locations, but not all herbs could be found in safe areas. The White Spirit Grass, in particular, was rumored to grow in a secluded part of the wilderness, where powerful beasts roamed. After spending hours combing through scrolls and conversing with a few elders, Ye Tian finally had a rough idea of where to go. By the time he returned to his residence, night had already fallen, and the moon hung high in the sky, casting long shadows across the sect¡¯s grounds. Feeling the weight of his plan, Ye Tian decided to cultivate before his journey. Sitting in his usual meditation posture, he began to draw in the surrounding qi, focusing on the five elemental energies he had sensed earlier. The elemental qi flowed into his dantian, swirling and mixing with each breath he took. Yet tonight, something felt different. His consciousness began to drift, and soon, the darkness of the night gave way to a different kind of void. Ye Tian found himself lying in a cold, sterile room. It was a hospital room¡ªone from his old world. The faint hum of machines was the only sound, their quiet rhythm strangely familiar. He looked around. The room was dimly lit, with just one flickering light casting shadows against the white walls. His body felt weak, as though every ounce of strength had been drained from him. He tried to move but found himself unable to lift his limbs. ¡°What¡­ what is this?¡± he whispered. He was back in the hospital, where he had spent the last days of his previous life, riddled with illness and confined to a bed. The sense of isolation he had felt in that world washed over him once again. There was no one else in the room¡ªjust him, the machines, and the shadows. In the distance, a faint sound echoed through the halls. Footsteps? A voice? It was hard to tell, but the sense of abandonment and emptiness weighed heavily on him. His heart pounded in his chest, a painful reminder of the fragility of his old body. ¡°Is this¡­ a dream?¡± Ye Tian questioned himself, his mind struggling to make sense of the situation. The door to the room creaked open, but there was no one there. The silence became oppressive, and the familiar fear of his impending death in his old life resurfaced. But as he lay there, helpless and alone, something shifted. The fire in his heart, the will that had driven him to cultivate and grow stronger, flared up. He was Ye Tian, a cultivator in pursuit of eternity. Suddenly, the room began to dissolve, the darkness swirling around him once more. He could feel himself being pulled back into the present, his mind returning to his body in the cultivation world. The cold hospital bed faded away, replaced by the warmth of the qi flowing through him. Ye Tian¡¯s eyes snapped open. He was back in his room, sitting in his usual position. His body was drenched in sweat, and his heart raced, but he was awake. The dream¡ªif it had been a dream¡ªlingered in his mind. ¡°What was that?¡± he muttered, wiping the sweat from his brow. Was it just a nightmare, or was it something more? The vision of his old world, the feeling of helplessness¡ªit was all too real. But why had he experienced it now, after so long? Shaking his head, Ye Tian calmed his racing thoughts. There was no time to dwell on the past. He had a journey ahead of him¡ªto the wilderness. ¡°I will become immortal no matter what happens, it''s my dream....I''ll live forever,¡± Ye Tian swore to himself, his resolve hardening. With the first light of dawn breaking through his window, Ye Tian prepared for his venture into the wilderness. Chapter 06: Journey to Tai Shan Mountain (1) Chapter 06: Journey to Tai Shan Mountain (1) As dawn broke, Ye Tian stood at the gates of the sect, having just secured a three-day leave to venture into the wilderness. His goal was clear: to find the herbs he urgently needed to progress in his cultivation. With a pack slung over his shoulder, he made his way towards the wilderness, his thoughts focused on the task ahead. The wilderness was vast, a realm of danger and opportunity for cultivators. Powerful beasts roamed the land, and countless spiritual plants grew in secluded areas. Ye Tian knew the risks, but his determination to grow stronger outweighed his caution. He had his destination in mind: Tai Shan Mountain, a place known for its abundant resources and perilous cliffs. After half a day of walking, he reached the base of Tai Shan. The mountain loomed before him, its towering peaks disappearing into the clouds. The air was crisp, and a cool breeze swept through the trees. For a moment, Ye Tian stood in awe of the beauty around him¡ªthe deep green of the forest, the distant sound of running water, and the stillness that seemed to encompass the mountain. ¡°This place... it''s peaceful,¡± he murmured to himself. For all the dangers, the wilderness had a serenity that the sect lacked. But he couldn''t afford to admire the scenery for too long. Time was precious, and the White Spirit Grass wasn''t going to find itself. Ye Tian began his search, moving through the dense undergrowth with practiced ease. Along the way, he came across several other herbs: Silverleaf Ginseng, Blue Spirit Moss, and Crimson Orchid, each valuable in its own right. He carefully harvested them, placing them into his satchel as he moved further up the mountain. Despite his early success, hours passed and Ye Tian found it increasingly difficult to locate the specific herb he sought. The deeper he ventured into the wilderness, the fewer signs of life there seemed to be. The forest grew denser, the sounds of wildlife fading into the distance. By the time he realized how far he had wandered, he was already at the halfway point of Tai Shan, in an isolated and eerie part of the mountain. And then, he saw it. Growing in a small, secluded clearing, surrounded by jagged rocks, was the herb he had been searching for: White Spirit Grass. Its pale green leaves shimmered faintly under the dim light of the setting sun. Ye Tian''s eyes lit up with relief as he approached the plant, carefully digging it out of the ground and placing it in his herb pouch. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. ¡°I finally found it,¡± he sighed, though the satisfaction was short-lived. The sun had already dipped below the horizon, and the shadows of the mountain lengthened ominously. He was far from the safety of the sect, and traveling back in the dark wasn¡¯t an option. His stomach growled. Realizing he hadn''t eaten since early morning, Ye Tian pulled out some dried rations from his bag and ate in silence, sitting under a large tree. As the night deepened, the temperature dropped, and a cold wind swept through the mountain. He decided to rest for the night, knowing that traveling in darkness would only invite trouble. Settling himself in the crook of the tree, he leaned back and closed his eyes. Exhaustion overtook him, and despite the discomfort, Ye Tian soon drifted off into a light sleep. --- At dawn, Ye Tian woke to the sound of birds chirping in the trees above him. The night had passed uneventfully, much to his relief. He stretched and immediately began practicing his cultivation, drawing in the qi from the surrounding area. The qi on the mountain was pure and abundant, and he could feel it flowing smoothly into his dantian. Once he finished his morning cultivation, Ye Tian packed up and resumed his search for more herbs. But as the hours dragged on, hunger gnawed at him. He hadn¡¯t been able to find any edible plants or game, and his stomach rumbled in protest. Just when he began to consider returning to the sect early, he noticed a thin trail of smoke rising in the distance. Curious¡ªand hopeful for food¡ªYe Tian made his way toward the smoke. As he got closer, the smell of roasting meat filled the air, causing his mouth to water. Peering through the trees, he saw a small campfire surrounded by a group of two people, possibly father and son. They were roasting some meat over the fire. The son noticed Ye Tian first and stood up, on guard. The father, older and more experienced, held up a hand to stop him. "Who are you?" the father asked, his voice calm but firm. "I¡¯m just a traveler passing through, searching for herbs," Ye Tian replied, keeping his voice steady. "I haven¡¯t eaten in a while. I saw the smoke and thought to check." The father studied Ye Tian for a moment, then nodded. "We¡¯re from a nearby village, came up to hunt. You¡¯re welcome to join us, though we don¡¯t have much." Grateful, Ye Tian accepted the offer. The father and son were kind, and though their lives were simple, they knew the land well. Over the fire, they talked about the mountain, the herbs, and the challenges of living in the wilderness. For the first time in a while, Ye Tian felt a strange sense of peace as he listened to their stories. It was a moment of quiet amid his ever-growing ambition for power and survival. He thanked them for the food and decided to stay with them for a while before heading deeper into the wilderness for his herbs. Chapter 07 : Journey to Tai Shan Mountain (2) Chapter 07 : Journey to Tai Shan Mountain (2) T he sun began to set, casting long shadows over Tai Shan Mountain. As night fell, Ye Tian found a sturdy tree to climb once more, resting high in its branches for safety. The forest grew quiet, with only the distant sounds of nocturnal creatures echoing through the darkness. His body ached from the day''s exertion, but he knew rest was crucial. Tomorrow, he would continue his search for the rare herbs he needed. At dawn, Ye Tian resumed his exploration, pushing deeper into the wilderness. As the morning wore on, he came across a small cave tucked into the side of a hill. A faint, ethereal glow emanated from within, piquing his curiosity. Cautiously, he approached, and as he peered inside, his eyes widened in surprise. A flock of White Spirit Grass grew near the entrance of the cave, their soft glow lighting up the dark space. This herb was incredibly valuable¡ªits essence was known to strengthen one''s cultivation and was particularly potent in refining qi. Ye Tian stepped closer, but his excitement quickly turned to caution as he felt a powerful presence nearby. From the shadows of the cave slithered a large snake monster, its scales shimmering dark green, eyes glowing with a cold intelligence. Its cultivation level was higher than Ye Tian''s¡ªhe could feel the oppressive aura radiating from it, a beast of at least a higher realm than him. Ye Tian tightened his grip on his sword, knowing that this would not be an easy fight. He studied the snake carefully, waiting for an opportunity. He had fought beasts before, but this one would require a different approach. Rushing in recklessly could lead to his death. He slowly circled around the cave entrance, searching for a blind spot in the snake''s vision. After finding an angle where the snake was less aware of his presence, Ye Tian leaped into action, aiming a strike at the beast¡¯s side. His sword slashed through the air with a sharp whistle, but the snake was quick to react, coiling back and snapping at him with lightning speed. The battle began in earnest, with Ye Tian using his agility to avoid the snake''s strikes while landing blows where he could. Despite his efforts, the snake''s thick scales absorbed much of the damage. It lunged at him with a venomous bite, forcing Ye Tian to dodge and roll. They fought for some time, the cave filled with the sound of clashing steel and hissing. Soon, Ye Tian found himself growing weaker. The snake''s attacks were relentless, and one strike finally caught him off guard, sending him crashing against the cave wall. Blood trickled from his wounds, and pain coursed through his body. He was heavily injured, and the snake, sensing its victory, began to close in. Desperation set in as Ye Tian scrambled to hide behind a large rock, his mind racing. What could he do? His cultivation wasn''t enough to defeat the beast in direct combat, and he was running out of options. Suddenly, an idea came to him. He recalled the five elemental qi circulating within him and focused on his control over fire qi. Gathering what strength he had left, Ye Tian infused his sword with the scorching fire qi, making the blade glow with intense heat. He took a deep breath and concentrated, channeling all his energy into a single, decisive attack. If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. With a sudden surge of determination, Ye Tian sprang from his hiding place, slashing his sword toward the roof of the cave. The fire qi blast struck the stone above the snake, causing the sharp rocks to crack and break loose. With a rumble, the rocks came crashing down onto the snake''s body. The snake hissed in pain as the jagged stones struck its vulnerable spots. Its movements slowed, and finally, it collapsed under the weight of the falling debris, its life force fading. Panting and clutching his side, Ye Tian staggered forward. The beast was dead. He had won, though just barely. Without wasting any time, Ye Tian extracted the core from the snake''s body. The core was valuable¡ªit contained condensed spiritual energy that could be used in alchemy or cultivation. After collecting the White Spirit Grass and ensuring he had gathered everything he needed, Ye Tian knew it was time to return to the sect. He had achieved his goal, but the journey had taken a toll on his body. His wounds throbbed painfully, and he knew he needed medical attention as soon as possible. As the sun began to dip below the horizon once more, Ye Tian descended the mountain, his heart resolute. The wilderness had tested him, but he had emerged stronger. Now, it was time to return to the sect and continue his path to becoming eternal. After descending from Tai Shan Mountain, Ye Tian made his way back to the sect, his body aching from the intense battle with the snake monster. He clutched the White Spirit Grass and the snake¡¯s core close, knowing these items were too precious to reveal. Upon reaching the sect, he first headed to the Exchange Hall to trade in the other herbs he had gathered during his journey. The Exchange Hall was bustling with disciples, as usual, some looking to trade their hard-earned points for resources, while others made exchanges for rare herbs and treasures. Ye Tian entered quietly, his worn-out appearance catching the eye of the elder overseeing the hall. He stepped forward, presenting the herbs he had collected. Among them were several lesser-known herbs like Iron Leaf Fern and Dragon Root, but nothing as valuable as the White Spirit Grass he had carefully hidden in his robes. The elder, a sharp-eyed man with a long beard and an inquisitive expression, examined the herbs closely. ¡°You¡¯ve brought back quite a haul this time, Ye Tian,¡± the elder remarked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Most low stage disciples struggle to find even half of these. How did you manage to gather so much?¡± Ye Tian had anticipated this question. He couldn¡¯t afford to reveal the truth about the snake monster or the White Spirit Grass, so he quickly made up a story. ¡°I got lucky,¡± he said, maintaining a calm demeanor. ¡°I ventured deeper into the wilderness than usual and stumbled upon a secluded area where the herbs were growing in abundance. I spent a good amount of time there collecting them before heading back.¡± The elder squinted slightly, clearly not entirely convinced, but after a moment, he nodded. ¡°Fortunate, indeed. Be careful not to push your luck too far. The wilderness is dangerous, especially for someone of your cultivation level.¡± Ye Tian smiled politely and nodded in agreement, though he remained guarded. The elder didn¡¯t press further, and after calculating the value of the herbs, he handed Ye Tian his points. The White Spirit Grass and the snake core remained safely hidden, untouched. After finishing at the Exchange Hall, Ye Tian returned to his residence, grateful to have escaped further questioning. He planned to cultivate in seclusion and make full use of the resources he had obtained. As he entered his room, he noticed something unusual¡ªa letter was placed on the small wooden table near the window. It wasn¡¯t there when he had left for the wilderness. Curiosity piqued, Ye Tian unfolded the letter and read its contents. "Two days from now, meet at the Practical Exercise Ground. You will see what happens if someone goes against me." The message was unsigned, but the intent was clear. Someone within the sect had targeted him . Ye Tian¡¯s eyes narrowed. This duel could be an opportunity, but it was also a potential threat. He had to be prepared, physically and mentally. Folding the letter, he placed it aside. He had two days to recover and ready himself for the upcoming challenge. With a deep breath, he sat down to cultivate, gathering his energy and focusing on refining the spiritual power he had acquired from the snake core. ------------------ Chapter 08: Forging Resolve in moonlight Chapter 08: Forging Resolve in moonlight Ye Tian placed the letter aside, setting it on the old wooden table in his worn-down residence. As he glanced around, the dilapidated state of his house caught his eye. The walls were cracked and chipped, and the roof had a sizable hole, allowing the cool moonlight to stream through. Shadows danced across the floor, the soft moonlight emphasizing just how fragile his home had become. He let out a soft sigh. "This place is falling apart, just like I almost did," he muttered under his breath, remembering the days when he had been stuck at the peak of the Qi Condensation stage. Those were hard times, and no matter how much he tried to push forward, he couldn¡¯t break through. During those frustrating days, he would frequently engage in duels, only to lose every time. "Always the same result," he thought bitterly. With each defeat, his heart grew heavier, until the day came when he stopped visiting the practice hall altogether. It wasn''t that he didn¡¯t want to improve¡ªit was that the constant failures gnawed away at him. Yet, even after withdrawing, some disciples would still come to challenge him. Their relentless confidence contrasted sharply with his quiet struggles. Each time they left, he was left behind with another bitter loss. "Those days¡­," Ye Tian shook his head, his fists clenched. But now, things had changed. He had changed. He was stronger, more determined. The recent invitation for the duel stirred something within him. It wasn¡¯t fear or trepidation¡ªit was a burning desire to prove himself, to show that he was no longer the same Ye Tian, the one who cowered under defeat. "I¡¯ll show them," he whispered, a sharp edge of resolve cutting through his voice. With newfound determination, Ye Tian decided to practice. He knew the duel ahead would be crucial, and he could not afford to be complacent. Although Ye Tian wasn''t battle crazed but he wasn''t someone to leave it if he was provocted , he wasn''t the past ye tian who was stuck at qi condension stage. Sitting cross-legged on the cracked floor, he closed his eyes and began to focus, his breathing deep and steady. His awareness sank into his sea of knowledge, where the five elemental qis¡ªthe energies representing fire, water, earth, metal, and wood¡ªswirled and surged. He had an idea¡ªsomething he hadn¡¯t tried before. "What if I could control them?" he mused silently, his brow furrowing. "What if I could shape these elemental qis into something¡­ more?" Taking a deep breath, Ye Tian began. One by one, he attempted to form spheres out of each element. At first, the qi responded eagerly, gathering into small orbs of energy that floated gently in his sea of knowledge. But then, without warning, the spheres burst apart, scattering the elemental energy chaotically, leaving him panting from the mental effort. "Too unstable," he murmured, shaking his head in frustration. "Why does it keep slipping away?" He didn¡¯t stop. Undeterred, Ye Tian tried again, gathering the qi once more, but the result was the same. His mind raced, searching for what he might be doing wrong. Was he trying to control too much at once? Was his approach flawed? After several more failed attempts, he changed his strategy. "Let¡¯s try one element at a time," he told himself. Instead of dividing his focus among all the elements, he chose to concentrate solely on one¡ªthe fire element. Summoning the fire qi, he concentrated all his mental energy on forming a single sphere. His breathing became labored, sweat beginning to bead on his forehead as his entire focus honed in on the task at hand. His body trembled slightly under the strain, but he didn¡¯t waver. Slowly, the fire qi began to condense, the heat building around him. It started small, just a flicker of warmth, but gradually it grew into a vibrant, glowing sphere that hovered in front of him, radiating intense heat. Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. "Come on¡­ just a little more¡­" Ye Tian whispered through clenched teeth, feeling the weight of the energy pressing down on him. With immense difficulty, the sphere stabilized, floating smoothly now, its form solid and controlled. Soon, it began to circle around him, casting an orange glow against his closed eyelids. Ye Tian felt a surge of excitement. He had done it. His understanding of the fire element had deepened significantly. "I did it¡­" His voice was barely above a whisper, but there was a sense of triumph in it. He could feel the power of the fire element coursing through him, more controlled and potent than ever before. A grin spread across his face. "So, this is what it feels like¡­" he muttered to himself, eager to test his newfound ability. When he finally opened his eyes, the first rays of dawn were breaking through the hole in the roof, bathing the room in soft light. "Time flies when you''re focused," he mused. But there was no time to rest now. He had to see just how strong he had become. Without hesitation, Ye Tian grabbed his sword, the blade worn but familiar in his hand, and headed out towards the nearby waterfall. It was a place he often visited when he needed to clear his mind, but today, he wasn¡¯t there for reflection¡ªhe was there to test his new power. The roar of the rushing water greeted him as he approached. Standing at the edge of the waterfall, he took a deep breath, calming his mind. The fire qi stirred within him, and he focused on channeling it into his sword. The blade began to glow, faintly at first, then more intensely as the fire qi flooded into it. "Let¡¯s see what this can do," he muttered, raising the sword above his head. With a sharp slash, the fire-imbued blade cut through the air, striking the waterfall. The moment the fire qi made contact with the rushing water, it vaporized the liquid, sending a brief cloud of steam into the air as the waterfall recoiled under the heat. Ye Tian watched with satisfaction as the water hissed and steamed. "Not bad," he murmured, his lips curling into a small smile. His control over the fire element had improved drastically, and he could sense that this was only the beginning. The potential was immense, and the thought of what he could achieve with more practice made his heart race. He took a short stroll around the area, letting the morning air clear his thoughts. "I¡¯ll need to be at my best for the duel," he reminded himself, turning his mind back to the challenge ahead. The time for showing weakness was over. It was time to prove his strength. Returning to his residence, Ye Tian sat down cross-legged once more, this time with a different purpose. He retrieved the herbs he had collected on his previous trip. These herbs would enhance his cultivation, allowing him to make even more rapid progress. He studied them for a moment, his fingers lightly brushing over the White Spirit Grass. "This will help with qi absorption and control," he noted to himself, feeling a sense of calm as he prepared to refine the herbs. Carefully, he began extracting the essence, his movements precise and practiced. He could feel the energy of the herbs flowing into him, merging with his own qi. Almost immediately, the effects became apparent. "My qi¡­ it''s flowing faster," he whispered, feeling the surge of power within him. His connection to the fire element became more solid and precise, his control tightening as his body absorbed the potent energy. His senses sharpened, and his body felt lighter, stronger. "These herbs really are incredible," he remarked, taking a deep breath as the last of the energy settled into him. His progress had been significant, and he knew that this would give him an edge in the duel. Glancing at the remaining White Spirit Grass, Ye Tian realized he had more than enough for future cultivation. "I¡¯ll save the rest for later. No need to rush," he thought, carefully storing the herbs away. For now, though, it was time to rest. The duel was tomorrow, and he needed to conserve his strength. With his body and mind more attuned to the elements than ever before, Ye Tian lay down on his simple bed, his thoughts already turning to the challenge that awaited him. "Tomorrow¡­" he murmured, closing his eyes, "I¡¯ll show them what I¡¯m really capable of." A quiet determination settled into his heart, and for the first time in a long while, Ye Tian slept with a sense of peace. Chapter 09 : Sister Yua Qing Chapter 09: Sister Yua Qing As the first light of dawn crept through the cracks in the wooden walls of his residence, Ye Tian stirred awake. The air was crisp, filled with the invigorating scent of dew and damp earth. He glanced at the small window, where the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm golden hue over everything. With a determined heart, he rose to prepare for the day ahead. Today was different; he could feel it in his bones. Ye Tian had resolved to practice at the nearby waterfall, a place where the elemental energies flowed freely. After a quick breakfast, he set off, his sword strapped securely to his back. Upon arriving at the waterfall, the sound of rushing water greeted him like an old friend. The water cascaded down with a rhythmic roar, its mist refreshing against his skin. Ye Tian closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as he centered himself. ¡°This is the place,¡± he murmured to himself, focusing on the surrounding qi. He could feel it vibrating in the air, a symphony of elemental energies harmonizing with nature. Ye Tian drew his sword, its blade glinting in the early light. He decided to practice the fire qi he had cultivated the previous day. ¡°Let¡¯s see if I can enhance my sword slash,¡± he thought, channeling his fire qi into the blade. He swung the sword in an arc, visualizing flames trailing behind the movement. ¡°Fire Slash!¡± he exclaimed, and with that, a wave of fiery energy shot forward, cutting through the mist and striking the waterfall with a resounding splash! The water sizzled and evaporated upon contact, sending a plume of steam rising into the air. Ye Tian couldn¡¯t help but smile, exhilarated by the progress he had made. ¡°I¡¯m getting better,¡± he said, patting the sword affectionately. Suddenly, he heard a voice echoing across the training ground. ¡°Attention, disciples! Today, an inner court disciple will be giving lessons!¡± Ye Tian turned, recognizing the tone of the announcement. It was one of the seniors, eager to share the news. ¡°Inner court disciple? This must be important,¡± he murmured. He knew better than to miss such lessons; those who failed to attend often faced penalties. ¡°I should head over there,¡± he decided, sheathing his sword and making his way back. As he approached the training ground, the atmosphere was electric with excitement. Groups of disciples gathered, discussing the upcoming lesson. ¡°I heard she¡¯s ranked in the top five of the inner courtyard,¡± one disciple remarked. ¡°Her name is Yua Qing. They say she¡¯s a Self Reunion realm cultivator!¡± ¡°Finally, a proper lesson,¡± another added, his voice laced with anticipation. ¡°Last time, they just came to show off their strength.¡± The conversation was interrupted when a figure appeared in the sky, gliding down with grace. It was Sister Yua Qing, and she landed softly before them, her presence commanding immediate attention. The air seemed to chill around her as she regarded the crowd with an icy stare. ¡°Line up!¡± she ordered in a cold voice. ¡°Or spar with me.¡± The disciples scrambled to form a line, their excitement palpable. Ye Tian stood among them, feeling a mix of admiration and apprehension. This was his chance to learn from someone truly powerful. Once everyone was in place, Yua Qing introduced herself with a subtle authority. ¡°I am Yua Qing. Today, we will discuss cultivation stages.¡± She paused, scanning the crowd. ¡°Pay attention; this is important.¡± She began to explain the various cultivation stages, her voice steady and clear. ¡°There are several stages in cultivation,¡± she started. ¡°First, we have Qi Condensation, where you gather and condense qi.¡± She emphasized the importance of this foundational step. ¡°Next is Qi Refining, where you refine that qi for better control.¡± As she spoke, Ye Tian listened intently. ¡°Gather and condense¡­ refine the qi. I¡¯ve been doing that, but it seems there¡¯s so much more,¡± he thought, feeling a sense of urgency to catch up. ¡°Following that is Foundation Building, where you establish a stable foundation. This is crucial for any further advancement,¡± she continued, her eyes glinting with seriousness. ¡°Then comes Self Reunion, which leads into Divine Soul, where you cultivate a divine soul.¡± Ye Tian pondered deeply on her words. ¡°A divine soul¡­ that sounds powerful. How far I have to climb,¡± he reflected, realizing the vast gap between him and the more advanced cultivators. ¡°The next stage is Soul Formation, where you manifest divine abilities,¡± Yua Qing continued. ¡°Finally, we have Immortal Ascension and Transcendent. Each of these stages consists of nine levels, which means there is always more to strive for.¡± The disciples listened with rapt attention, occasionally murmuring among themselves as they processed the information. After a thorough discussion on each stage, some eager disciples raised their hands, asking questions. ¡°What is the best way to reach the Foundation Building stage?¡± one asked. Yua Qing replied, ¡°Focus on solidifying your qi. Only through a strong foundation can you advance further.¡± After the lesson concluded, Ye Tian felt a mixture of inspiration and determination. As he turned to leave, he heard an arrogant voice call out to him. ¡°Ye Tian! Have you forgotten about our duel?¡± The voice belonged to Qin Nan, the arrogant younger brother of Liang Zhang, a known bully among the disciples. Ye Tian clenched his fists, feeling the eyes of the other disciples on him. Whispers spread through the crowd. ¡°Who does he think he is?¡± ¡°How did he offend Qin Nan?¡± With a deep breath, Ye Tian remained silent, ready for a confrontation. Qin Nan stepped forward, flanked by three companions, all Foundation Building realm cultivators. The air thickened with tension. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Look who we have here, the loser who thinks he can stand up to me,¡± Qin Nan taunted, his voice dripping with disdain. ¡°Let¡¯s see if you¡¯ve improved since the last time. Or should I say, since the last time you lost?¡± Ye Tian narrowed his eyes, refusing to be baited. He knew he had come a long way, but he also understood the dangers of underestimating his opponents. As if sensing the confrontation escalating, one of Qin Nan¡¯s companions, a burly figure with a smug grin, spoke up. ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Ye Tian? Afraid of a little sparring?¡± Qin Nan gestured toward his friends. ¡°These are the Mystic Trio. They use a mystic formation to suppress their opponents. You won¡¯t stand a chance!¡± The crowd watched, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling in the air. Ye Tian was aware of the trio¡¯s reputation; they were notorious for their viciousness. He thought, ¡°I¡¯ll show them what I¡¯ve learned.¡± Without warning, the trio lunged at Ye Tian, their movements swift and precise. The first disciple swung a fist imbued with qi, aiming to catch Ye Tian off guard. ¡°Crimson Fist!¡± he yelled, but Ye Tian was prepared. In a fluid motion, Ye Tian dodged to the side, his body moving instinctively. ¡°Fire Slash!¡± he shouted, channeling his fire qi into the blade. The sword erupted in flames as he struck with precision, catching the attacker off guard. The fire-infused blade sliced through the air, creating a wave of heat that sent the disciple sprawling backward with a grunt of surprise. The crowd gasped in shock. ¡°He actually countered!¡± Emboldened by his initial success, Ye Tian focused on the next two attackers, who were already forming a mystic formation. ¡°Frost Barrier!¡± one shouted, attempting to encase Ye Tian in a freezing cocoon. Ye Tian sensed the energy gathering and countered quickly. ¡°Inferno Blast!¡± He thrust his sword forward, unleashing a surge of fire that erupted in a swirling vortex, shattering the barrier and forcing both attackers back. The heat radiated from him, a testament to his growing mastery over fire qi. ¡°You think you can defeat us with that?¡± the third disciple sneered, trying to regain composure. They quickly reformed their formation, channeling their energy together. Ye Tian felt the pressure of their combined qi, but he stood firm. ¡°I¡¯ve trained for this!¡± he shouted, focusing all his energy on the fire element. ¡°Fire Dance!¡± He spun, the flames swirling around him as he lunged toward the trio. The formation crackled as he broke through, the flames igniting the air around them. The disciples stumbled back, shock written on their faces as Ye Tian¡¯s fire qi surged forth, overpowering their mystic formation. The crowd erupted in disbelief. ¡°How is he doing this?¡± one whispered. ¡°He was just a loser!¡± In a final effort, the trio tried to regroup, but Ye Tian pressed his advantage. With a swift motion, he unleashed another Fire Slash, the flame cutting through the air with lethal precision. The three disciples fell to the ground, groaning in defeat. The training ground was silent, save for the sound of their heavy breathing. Ye Tian stood over them, his sword still glowing with the remnants of fire qi. ¡°Now, about those pills¡­¡± Ye Tian said, a hint of challenge in his voice. The trio exchanged nervous glances. ¡°We won¡¯t give you anything!¡± one of them shouted trying to regain some semblance of dignity despite their defeat. Ye Tian raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. ¡°Really? You think that¡¯s how this works?¡± He stepped closer, the heat radiating off his sword causing the air around him to shimmer. ¡°You see, I¡¯ve beaten you fair and square. It would be wise to hand over the pills before I decide to make this a little more... uncomfortable.¡± The three disciples hesitated, the reality of their situation sinking in. The crowd was still watching, some with expressions of awe, others with disbelief. ¡°Just give him what he wants!¡± one bystander urged, realizing how badly the trio had miscalculated. With reluctance, the burly disciple, who had initially shown bravado, reached into his robes and produced a few pills, holding them out as if they were the most precious treasures. ¡°Fine! Here!¡± he stammered, his bravado crumbling. ¡°Just take them and leave us alone!¡± Ye Tian eyed the pills suspiciously, not entirely trusting them but knowing that refusing might just lead to more trouble. ¡°What are they?¡± he asked, his voice low and steady. ¡°Just some Qi Recovery Pills,¡± the burly disciple replied, trying to sound more confident. ¡°They¡¯ll help with your cultivation. Just take them and go!¡± Ye Tian nodded slowly. ¡°Alright.¡± He reached out, taking the pills from the disciple¡¯s trembling hand. He examined them briefly before placing them in his pocket. ¡°Consider this a lesson learned. Don¡¯t underestimate someone just because they have less experience.¡± He turned to leave, but not before throwing a final glance over his shoulder. ¡°And next time you want to challenge someone, make sure they¡¯re not ready for you.¡± With that, he walked away, a surge of adrenaline still coursing through him. The disciples around the training ground whispered amongst themselves, their respect for Ye Tian growing. ¡°Did you see that?¡± one exclaimed. ¡°He took down all three of them! How did he get so strong?¡± ¡°Maybe he¡¯s been training harder than we thought,¡± another speculated, still in awe of Ye Tian¡¯s sudden rise in power. As Ye Tian made his way back to his residence, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of pride. He had not only defended himself but had also showcased his newfound strength and determination. Today¡¯s lesson with Yua Qing had set the stage for his growth, and he was ready to continue climbing the ranks of cultivation. When he returned to his residence, he immediately sat down and examined the Qi Recovery Pills. They were simple yet potent, infused with qi that would help replenish his energy. ¡°I¡¯ll save these for when I truly need them,¡± he muttered to himself. The rest of the day was spent reflecting on his duel with Qin Nan and the trio. Ye Tian realized that he had come a long way since he first entered this world, and with each challenge, he grew stronger. He couldn¡¯t help but think about the stages of cultivation Yua Qing had described. ¡°I need to focus more on my foundation,¡± he said, determination filling his heart. ¡°Only then can I reach the next stage.¡± With renewed resolve, Ye Tian spent the afternoon meditating and refining his fire qi. He channeled the energy through his body, envisioning the flames dancing around him, solidifying his connection with the element. As he practiced, he recalled Yua Qing¡¯s words about the importance of each cultivation stage. ¡°Qi Condensation¡­ Gather and condense qi,¡± he whispered, feeling the energy swirling within him. He could visualize the process, gathering qi from the air and condensing it within his dantian. ¡°Qi Refining¡­ Refine the qi.¡± He focused on purifying the energy, ensuring it was potent and controlled. He could feel the warmth spreading throughout his body, a sense of harmony enveloping him. ¡°Foundation Building¡­¡± Ye Tian took a deep breath, realizing the importance of establishing a solid foundation. He envisioned a sturdy structure forming within him, brick by brick, each layer representing his dedication and effort. He spent hours in meditation, concentrating on the energy within him, feeling it pulse and flow. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over his surroundings. As night fell, he finally opened his eyes, feeling rejuvenated and centered. With a sense of accomplishment, Ye Tian decided to get some rest. Tomorrow, he would train even harder, and he was determined to seek out Yua Qing for more guidance. But as he lay down, a nagging thought persisted: Qin Nan and his trio would not let this go easily. They were known for their grudges, and Ye Tian had made an enemy today. He would need to be ready for whatever came next. ------------------------- Chapter 10 : Breakthrough and Banter Published: Sat , 2024 Oct 26 [12:50] Chapter 10: Breakthrough and Banter --- As dawn broke, Ye Tian sat outside, breathing in the crisp morning air, gathering his focus. He closed his eyes, channeling his attention into refining the fire qi he''d cultivated the day before. Small, barely visible tendrils of qi began to gather around him, drawn in from the atmosphere as he immersed himself fully in his practice. Suddenly, an unusual warmth began to build up from the direction of the sky. The sun¡¯s rays intensified, filling the air with vibrant, energetic qi. Without realizing it, Ye Tian absorbed this energy. ¡°Ah!¡± he cried out as his body temperature soared, and a shockwave of power erupted around him, shaking the ground and sending leaves fluttering in every direction. He opened his eyes, feeling his vision sharper, his senses heightened. ¡°I¡­ I broke through to the 5th stage,¡± he muttered, feeling a thrill run through him. ¡°My strength¡­ everything feels clearer, stronger.¡± After a quick meal, Ye Tian moved to grab a broom and head out to complete his daily task of sweeping the grounds. As he worked, his mind wandered back to the previous day¡¯s match, replaying the fight over in his head. High in the branches of a nearby tree, a lady in veil monitoring the sect¡¯s disciples. As she monitoring others her gaze fell on Ye Tian, noticing his distracted stance, standing in one spot and sweeping almost absently. "Hmm¡­ what a weido....," she murmured. ¡°What¡¯s going on in that mind of his?¡± With a shake of her head, she moved on, leaving him to his thoughts. The sound of footsteps from behind snapped Ye Tian out of his trance. Without looking back, he instinctively shifted to the side to avoid whoever was coming his way, but it seemed they had the same idea. Both turned at the same moment, colliding. ¡°Ouch!¡± The other disciple stumbled back, his face a mixture of irritation and surprise. He looked up, and his eyes widened as he realized it was Ye Tian. ¡°You¡­¡± ¡°Sorry about that,¡± Ye Tian said, giving a slight smile as he stepped aside. The disciple narrowed his eyes, clearly shocked by the unexpected force of their collision. After a moment, he muttered, ¡°How did¡­?¡± but trailed off, brushing himself off and hurrying away with a strange look back at Ye Tian. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. Ye Tian shook his head, stifling a laugh as he picked up his broom again. But his thoughts quickly turned serious. I need to find a proper body-tempering manual, he thought. It¡¯s too risky to rely only on the Origin Palace techniques. If anyone found out¡­ After thinking some time he decided to go martial arts hall after finishing his jod. Any ways now that place would be crowed with diciples he would go later so that no one notice him. After a while, Ye Tian finally finished his chores and decided it was time to visit the Martial Arts Hall ,it was noon at that time, After morning hustle bustle the hall was quite and deserted . Ye tian thought he thankfully didn''t came in morning. As he entering martial arts hall he noticed the keeper of martial arts hall was dozing off in his seat and sometime smileing lewdly. Ye Tian grinned, stepping forward with a mischievous glint in his eye. ¡°Keeper Zhang,¡± he called softly. The old man didn¡¯t budge. Ye Tian tried again, a little louder, ¡°Keeper Zhang!¡± Though this old man looked kind ye tian knew he was a sly fox and also powerful. Once a diciple making trouble here and this old man pused him out and directly expelling him . That diciple carrier cut off. The old man continued to nap, an occasional smile crossing his face. Ye Tian chuckled to himself, deciding to wake him with a bit of humor. ¡°Keeper Zhang, which fair lady were you dreaming of this time?¡± The old man stirred, his eyes opening a crack as he muttered, ¡°Huh? Who¡­ who¡¯s disturbing my sleep?¡± ¡°It¡¯s me, Keeper Zhang,¡± Ye Tian replied, biting back a grin. ¡°So¡­ was it one of the sect¡¯s senior sisters? You looked awfully pleased there in your dream.¡± The old man¡¯s eyes opened fully, and he scoffed, ¡°Hmph! Rude, asking such questions to your elders. I¡¯m far too dignified for that.¡± ¡°Great body?¡± Ye Tian teased, leaning in slightly. The old man nodding with delight. "Long legs , white skin, thin chest, maybe?¡± Old man nodded with excitement forgetting ye tian was a diciple. At the end keeper zhang blushed thinking if here was hole he would struck his head in it . The old man flushed slightly, sputtering, ¡°Ridiculous! I would never¡­ young people these days, no respect at all.¡± Ye Tian¡¯s eyes sparkled with amusement, and he gave a mock sigh. ¡°Well, I was going to ask for your advice, but if I offended you¡­¡± Keeper Zhang shot him a glare, though a hint of a smile tugged at his lips. ¡°Fine, fine. What do you want, brat?¡± ¡°Actually,¡± Ye Tian replied, straightening, ¡°I need a body-cultivation manual.¡± Keeper Zhang grumbled, muttering something about ¡°disruptive youngsters¡± under his breath, but nodded. ¡°Come on, then. You¡¯ve come at the right time, I suppose.¡± He led Ye Tian deeper into the hall, pointing out a shelf lined with well-worn manuals. ¡°Anything on this shelf should suit you just fine,¡± the old man said. ¡°Pick one, but don¡¯t get any ideas." Ye Tian nodded, reaching for a manual titled "Tempered Body Records". As he flipped through it, he asked casually, ¡°And, Keeper Zhang¡­ just out of curiosity, what did she look like?¡± The old man turned scarlet, coughing violently as he waved Ye Tian off. ¡°Enough of that! Go on, get out, and let an old man rest!¡± Ye Tian chuckled as he tucked the manual under his arm. ¡°Of course, Keeper Zhang. I¡¯ll leave you to your¡­ noble thoughts.¡± He turned to leave, but not before catching a glimpse of the old man¡¯s expression¡ªa mixture of irritation and grudging amusement. With a quiet laugh, Ye Tian headed back to his quarters, feeling both lighter and better prepared for the next step in his journey. --- Chapter 11: Embracing the Foundation Chapter 11: Embracing the Foundation --- Leaving the Martial Arts Hall, Ye Tian felt a surge of excitement. Finally, a body cultivation technique, he thought. For years, his weak physical condition had held him back, forcing him to rely on pills to reach the Foundation Building stage. But with the progress made through his Five Element Origin Technique, he felt his body growing stronger by the day. Still, he reminded himself, I can¡¯t attract too much attention. No one must know the secret of the Origin Palace¡­ not yet. As he reached his quarters, he quickly opened the scroll and studied the technique. His eyes lit up as he read. ¡°This technique¡­ it''s meant to solidify and stabilize the foundation. No wonder it¡¯s highly recommended.¡± Taking a deep breath, he began practicing the stance, moving with deliberate, gentle motions. His hands formed a palm, pressing left, then right, pushing forward in a rhythmic flow. ¡°Embrace the world within,¡± he murmured, feeling an intense focus as if he held the vast land, sky, and even the distant stars between his hands. Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. Stepping forward with his left foot, he felt a surge of power. ¡°It¡¯s like I¡¯m stepping on the world itself,¡± he thought. As he continued, a wave of vitality seemed to wash over him, as if spring flowers were blooming around him. Then, in his mind¡¯s eye, autumn winds blew, cold and crisp, and he could feel the chill of winter approaching. Suddenly, pain shot through him, and he staggered, almost collapsing to the ground. ¡°Argh¡­ it feels like my bones are breaking,¡± he gasped, struggling to steady himself. Checking his body, he found no visible injuries but felt a deep soreness from the strain. Steeling himself, he thought, If he pursues eternal life so naturally it''s fist condition and most important part was to becomeing strong. I have to endure. Gritting his teeth, he resumed his stance, pushing through the pain. The night slowly fell around him, and at last, exhausted, he crawled into his house, collapsing into a deep sleep. The next morning, he woke to find the sun already high. Rubbing his aching limbs, he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s going to take time to get used to that pain.¡± Despite his late start, he finished his daily training routine, refusing to let fatigue or soreness delay him. As he was finishing, a group of disciples approached, calling out his name. ¡°So, you¡¯re Ye Tian,¡± one of them said with a smirk. ¡°We¡¯re here to challenge you.¡± Ye Tian nodded, understanding immediately. They must¡¯ve heard about yesterday¡¯s match, he thought. ¡°I accept,¡± he said calmly, meeting their gaze without hesitation. The disciples looked slightly surprised at his confidence, exchanging glances before one of them sneered, ¡°Just because of some rumors¡­ don¡¯t think you¡¯re all that. You¡¯re still at the Qi Refining stage, aren¡¯t you?¡± Ye Tian¡¯s eyes glinted as he replied, ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough.¡± ------------------------- Chapter 12 : The Rising Flame 01/10 [1:45] Chapter 12 : The Rising Flame --- The news spread like wildfire through the outer sect courtyard: Ye Tian had accepted a challenge from a Foundation Building disciple. Excitement and skepticism brewed among the gathered disciples, who traded glances and muttered to each other. ¡°Did you hear? Ye Tian actually accepted!¡± ¡°Ha, I wonder what he¡¯s thinking. Those challengers are in the fifth stage of Foundation Building¡ªthere¡¯s no way he¡¯ll win!¡± ¡°He¡¯ll probably get crushed like usual.¡± Ye Tian ignored the whispers as he surveyed the crowd forming around him. They think they know my limits, he thought, steeling himself. His opponents were indeed stronger on paper, but he wasn¡¯t the same Ye Tian from before. With the Origin Palace¡¯s techniques, he had gained more confidence. He felt his body and mind sharper, and he was ready to show everyone the results of his training. ¡°So,¡± Ye Tian called out, his voice carrying over the noise. ¡°Who¡¯s first?¡± A tall, arrogant boy, Xu Wei, stepped forward with a condescending smirk. ¡°I¡¯ll take you on,¡± he declared, his voice thick with derision. His friends chuckled behind him, nudging each other as if this were a game. ¡°This¡¯ll be quick,¡± Xu Wei added, drawing his sword with a casual flick of his wrist. Ye Tian sized him up, his gaze unwavering. They really think they¡¯ll walk away with free points, he mused. But since you¡¯ve all delivered yourselves to me, I¡¯ll gladly accept. The crowd shifted in anticipation as Ye Tian and Xu Wei squared off. Some jeered, others whispered doubts, but no one expected anything remarkable. Xu Wei sneered. ¡°Are you ready, or should I wait for you to run?¡± Ye Tian simply smirked. ¡°I hope you¡¯re prepared to lose,¡± he replied calmly. Xu Wei¡¯s smile faded, and his expression turned into one of irritation. With a roar, he charged forward, his blade flashing toward Ye Tian in a swift arc. Ye Tian sidestepped, his movements smooth, barely evading the strike. ¡°Too slow!¡± Xu Wei taunted, swinging again with greater force. Ye Tian parried the blow, but the impact reverberated through his arm, reminding him of the difference in their cultivation levels. Still, he held his ground, his eyes never leaving his opponent. Xu Wei¡¯s smirk returned as he increased his speed, forcing Ye Tian to retreat several paces. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Can¡¯t keep up?¡± Ye Tian gritted his teeth, maintaining his defense while his mind raced. He knew he couldn¡¯t keep fending off attacks indefinitely, and he needed to find a way to counter. Then, he remembered the movement technique he¡¯d taken from the Origin Palace. If I could just integrate it¡­ Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. He took a deep breath, channeling his fire-element qi to his legs, but the flow was uneven, and his movements remained slow. Not working. But I can¡¯t let him keep pushing me back, he thought, scanning for an opening. Xu Wei pressed forward with a powerful slash, shouting, ¡°Stop running and fight me properly!¡± Ye Tian shifted his weight, using the momentum of Xu Wei¡¯s attack to spring backward, narrowly avoiding a fatal blow. His heart pounded, but an idea began forming. What if I let him push me back just enough? If I time this right¡­ He braced himself as Xu Wei lunged forward, putting his full force into a downward slash. At the last second, Ye Tian raised his own sword to block, absorbing the impact, which sent him flying backward. As he staggered, he finally felt the fire-element qi settle in his legs. Then something clicked. The qi surged through his feet smoothly, like a sudden burst of energy waiting to be unleashed. Xu Wei grinned, thinking he had Ye Tian cornered. ¡°That¡¯s all you¡¯ve got?¡± he taunted, drawing back for another strike. But his grin vanished when Ye Tian, in a blur of motion, vanished from sight, reappearing behind him in an instant. ¡°What¡­?¡± Xu Wei stammered, caught off guard. Ye Tian seized the moment, pivoting with his sword aimed at Xu Wei¡¯s back. His opponent barely had time to turn before he was met with a sharp kick, sending him sprawling to the ground. Before Xu Wei could react, Ye Tian pointed his sword at his chest, his gaze steely. The silence around them was deafening. ¡°Did¡­ did Ye Tian just win?¡± someone murmured, breaking the stunned stillness. ¡°He actually defeated Xu Wei!¡± another gasped, disbelief evident on their face. The crowd burst into cheers, the once-mocking voices now praising him. ¡°Ye Tian! Ye Tian!¡± they chanted, watching him in awe. Up in a nearby tree, a veiled figure watched the fight closely, her lips curving into a faint smile. ¡°So, he¡¯s finally progressing,¡± she murmured to herself, her eyes glinting with intrigue. ¡°After so many years of being looked down upon¡­ he¡¯s started to move forward. I wonder what changed?¡± Ye Tian glanced at the cheering crowd, feeling their attention settle heavily on him. Better not linger too long, he thought, sheathing his sword. Bowing to the onlookers in a show of humility, he made his way toward the path leading to the sect market. --- As he walked, he replayed the last moment of the fight, considering the brief surge of power. ¡°That technique¡­ it¡¯s stronger than I thought,¡± he muttered to himself, a hint of excitement in his voice. ¡°I could actually feel my control over the fire element improve. But¡­ I¡¯m not sure if I can pull off that speed again without more practice.¡± The path soon opened up into the bustling sect market, where disciples crowded around various stalls, bartering for goods and materials. Here, vendors sold everything from rare herbs and spirit cores to enchanted artifacts and cultivation manuals. Ye Tian glanced around, his eyes searching for something specific. He approached a stall selling elemental treasures, the vendor¡ªa wiry, older disciple¡ªeyeing him curiously. ¡°Looking for something specific, friend?¡± the vendor asked with a polite smile. ¡°Yes,¡± Ye Tian replied, ¡°I need fire-elemental treasures.¡± The vendor raised an eyebrow, his eyes scanning Ye Tian¡¯s attire and expression. ¡°Fire-elemental treasures, hmm? They¡¯re not normally available, you know.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve enough spirit stones! ¡± he replied with a slight grin, causing the vendor to chuckle. Where should I get fire-elemental treasures. "Let''s keep searching" Ye Tian examined the shops, trying to sense warm spiritual power from treasures through his fingers. ¡° where?¡± --- Elsewhere, in a dim room within the sect, a group of disciples sat in tense discussion. ¡°Did you hear about Ye Tian¡¯s victory this morning?¡± one of them muttered, his tone laced with disdain. ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t like it. Now everyone¡¯s talking about him,¡± another replied, frowning. ¡°We can¡¯t let him get too comfortable.¡± A third disciple leaned forward, his expression dark and calculating. ¡°So, what are we going to do about it?¡± A voice from the corner, laced with arrogance, spoke up loudly. ¡°We¡¯re going to put him back in his place,¡± he declared with a smirk. ¡°Any ideas?¡± One of them grinned slyly, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. ¡°How about this¡­¡± he said, outlining a plan as the others leaned in to listen. ------------------------ Chapter 13 : Moonlit Confrontation and Unspoken Gratitude Chapter 13 : Moonlit Confrontation and Unspoken Gratitude Ye Tian was scouring the marketplace, his eyes keenly scanning each stall and every piece of merchandise displayed. His heart was set on finding fire-element treasures to amplify his cultivation. Most stalls displayed common goods and basic cultivation resources, but he hoped for something extraordinary. As he passed by a small, unassuming stall, a peculiar object caught his eye¡ªa pitch-black, stone-like core that seemed to pulse rhythmically, almost as if it were alive. Intrigued, he moved closer and picked up the core to examine it. He felt a subtle yet potent surge of fire-attributed energy radiating from within. The sensation was unmistakable; this was no ordinary object. The shop owner noticed Ye Tian¡¯s interest and spoke up, a wry smile on his face. ¡°Ah, young man, you¡¯ve got a sharp eye. This isn¡¯t something you¡¯d usually find here. It¡¯s the core of a fiery cherry fruit¡ªa rare find for any fire-attribute cultivator. The fruit enhances one¡¯s control over fire qi and even aids in refining elemental energy more quickly.¡± Ye Tian¡¯s eyes lit up at the description, envisioning how this core could propel his cultivation forward. ¡°How much for it?¡± he asked, trying to sound casual despite his eagerness. ¡°One hundred and fifty spirit stones,¡± the shop owner replied, clearly capitalizing on Ye Tian¡¯s interest. Ye Tian narrowed his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s not worth more than seventy spirit stones,¡± he said firmly, attempting to bargain. A few back-and-forth exchanges later, they agreed on a price of one hundred spirit stones. Ye Tian handed over the spirit stones, securing the core. As he examined it more closely, an idea struck him. ¡°It would be a waste to simply consume this,¡± he muttered to himself. ¡°The core is brimming with life energy; if I planted it, perhaps it would grow and yield even more benefits in the future.¡± His lips curved into a small smile at the thought. A wise investment, he thought to himself. With his new treasure safely stowed away, Ye Tian continued his search through the marketplace. Meanwhile, back near his residence, a group of four shadowed figures huddled together, their dark clothing blending seamlessly with the dim surroundings. Each of them had their mouths concealed, a sign they wished to remain unknown. Near Ye tian''s House, ¡°Are you sure no one saw us?¡± one of them whispered. ¡°Relax. I checked,¡± replied another. ¡°Ye Tian went to the marketplace. This side of the sect is always empty, and he¡¯s the only one living here. Let¡¯s get it done quickly and leave.¡± The men pulled out a torch, the small flame flickering ominously as they approached Ye Tian¡¯s worn-down house. But before they could proceed further, a voice, cold and clear as ice, echoed behind them. "Stop," it commanded. Suddenly a cold freezing sound came behind them. It was a girl voice. The others couldn''t see her face they could only feel the cold gaze. There''s was still some time to dark. The girl was covered her face in veil. Some time ago, The girl was passing nearby ye tians place, suddenly she felt several presence but this side of the sect always remains emyty only ye tian reside here. She felt it suspesious and decided to follow them and saw that they were planing to burn ye tians house. She could not remain in dark , so shout them stop with a cold freezing sound. The group froze, then slowly turned. Before them stood a figure veiled in a translucent fabric, her face obscured, but her eyes radiated an intense, frosty glare. She exuded a sense of danger, and even the approaching darkness seemed unable to shroud her aura. One of the men smirked, trying to sound unbothered. ¡°Girl, you should know better than to meddle in other people¡¯s business.¡± This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Another laughed as he took a step closer, examining her figure with a lecherous gaze. ¡°Wait, wait¡­ she looks quite good. Look at her figure. that parfect sized chest, that apatizing backside, shouldn''t we have some fun as well "huhu!" "what do you think!" Another one said "Girl it''s your bad luck coming here if you spent tonight with us brothers then we can forget about your insolence, we can have a little fun before finishing the job here. What do you say, brothers?¡± Their laughter echoed in the silence, but it was cut short as the girl¡¯s expression turned icier. Without a word, she raised her sword, a slender yet deadly blade gleaming in the faint light. ¡°Enough talking,¡± she murmured, her voice like frost on metal. The men laughed again, though some nervousness showed in their movements. They formed a tight formation, their weapons drawn. One lunged forward, attempting to strike her from the left, while another aimed for her right. The other two positioned themselves behind, ready to capitalize on any weakness in her defense. But she was faster. With a fluid motion, she deflected the first man¡¯s strike, her blade flashing as it grazed his side. He cried out, clutching his wound, and staggered backward. The second attacker tried to take advantage of her momentary focus, swinging his weapon down with all his strength. She sidestepped effortlessly, her eyes remaining calm and calculated. In one swift motion, she drove her sword upward, grazing his arm and forcing him to drop his weapon in pain. Realizing they were outmatched, the remaining two men exchanged a nervous glance. Still, they pressed forward, hoping their synchronized attack would overwhelm her. But even their combined efforts couldn¡¯t match her speed and precision. With each strike, she blocked, parried, and countered with flawless technique. Her movements were precise, each strike deliberate, revealing a mastery that transcended her age. Within moments, all four men were sprawled on the ground, groaning in pain, their confidence shattered. One of them managed to lift his head and asked, voice trembling, ¡°W-Who are you? What¡¯s¡­ your cultivation?¡± She simply smiled¡ªa sweet, deceptively gentle smile that sent chills through them. ¡°Now leave,¡± she commanded, her tone like ice. ¡°And if I see any of you near Ye Tian again¡­¡± She raised her sword slightly, and the implication was clear. The men didn¡¯t hesitate. Scrambling to their feet, they fled into the night, glancing over their shoulders in terror. As night fell completely, Ye Tian returned home, still buzzing with excitement over his new find. He was eager to examine the fiery cherry fruit core further and to make plans for planting it. But as he stepped inside, he froze, his eyes widening in surprise. The moonlight streamed through the broken roof, casting a gentle glow over his modest dwelling.Night blooming flowers scented the air, their fragrance entwining with the dreamlike atmosphere. Amidst the silvery light lay a figure, resting peacefully on his bed¡ªa girl, her face partially illuminated, her features striking in their delicacy.Her face shone like polished opal, radiating gentle luminescence. Skin smooth as finest silk glowed with a soft, moonlit sheen. The sleeper''s tranquil breathing was the only sound in the hushed stillness. Moonbeams danced across her face, casting intricate patterns that accentuated her captivating beauty. The observer''s heart swelled with wonder. Time stood still, leaving only awe and reverence. In this fleeting moment, all worries dissolved. The world reduced to a single, perfect image: a sleeping beauty, bathed in moonlight, surrounded by serene and captivating loveliness. For a moment, Ye Tian could only stare, his heart beating faster. He suddenly caught a familiar scent, a faint herbal fragrance that brought back memories of times when he was struggling at the peak of Qi Condensation. The same scent had lingered on the medicinal pills he used to receive anonymously¡ªa scent he¡¯d never forget. Could it be her? He took a tentative step forward, whispering softly, ¡°Senior Sister?¡± At the sound of his voice, the girl¡¯s eyelids fluttered open, and she quickly sat up, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson. Realizing where she was, she sprang to her feet, visibly flustered. ¡°I¡­ I was just¡­¡± she stammered, avoiding his gaze. ¡°I came to¡­ check on something¡­ That¡¯s all!¡± Ye Tian, recovering from his initial surprise, he saw some fighting marks before entering the house,so he understood what had happened here, he offered her a grateful smile. ¡°Thank you, Senior Sister, for what you did today¡ªand for the pills you left for me back then.¡± She turned, clearly embarrassed, and tried to deny it. ¡°Pills? I¡­ I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about!¡± With that, she moved toward the door, intending to leave swiftly. But Ye Tian called after her. ¡°Senior Sister, what is your name?¡± She hesitated for a moment, then continued walking. Just as she was about to disappear into the night, she called back softly, her voice a whisper on the breeze. ¡°Ji Qingyan.¡± Her silhouette vanished into the shadows, but her name lingered in the air, echoing in Ye Tian¡¯s mind. As he stood in the moonlit room, an unshakeable feeling settled within him, one he couldn¡¯t quite put into words. Her unexpected appearance and their brief interaction left an indelible mark on him, like the first light of dawn breaking across a dark horizon¡ªa hint of something unknown, yet exhilarating, waiting to unfold. -------------------------------- Chapter 14 : The Call of Competition, A Watchfull Gaze From Above Chapter 14 : The Call of Competition, A Watchfull Gaze From Above The moonlit encounter with Ji Qing Yan was a memory Ye Tian couldn''t shake. As dawn broke, sunlight streamed through the broken roof of his modest home, and the world around him stirred back to life. He sat on his mat, his mind replaying the serene image of her sleeping figure bathed in moonlight. It felt unreal, like a fleeting dream caught in the tangles of reality. But Ye Tian was no stranger to shaking off distractions. "No use dwelling on things I can''t grasp," he muttered to himself, straightening his back. He went about his daily tasks with newfound energy, determined not to let such thoughts cloud his focus. Under the dazzling morning sun, Ye Tian headed toward the waterfall¡ªa place that had become his sanctuary for training and reflection. In his hands, he carried the pitch-black fruit core he had acquired from the market. The rhythmic beating it once emitted hadn''t been quieted yet, Ye Tian knew treasures of this world often hid their potential. He scouted the area carefully, searching for the most suitable spot to plant the core. His gaze settled on a patch of soft, fertile soil near the waterfall¡¯s edge, where sunlight poured unhindered, and the sound of cascading water provided a tranquil background. Kneeling down, Ye Tian dug a shallow hole with his hands and gently placed the core inside. Covering it with soil, he patted the ground firmly and leaned back to inspect his work. As he observed, a faint swirl of purple qi seemed to gather around the spot, almost imperceptible unless one had sharp senses. Ye Tian''s eyes narrowed. "This isn''t ordinary," he murmured, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Settling down beside the planted core, Ye Tian assumed a meditative posture and began cultivating. He channeled the Sun''s True Qi through his fire elemental sphere, feeling the energy course through his meridians and into his knowledge sea. The sphere, though small, seemed to radiate a stable and potent energy. "Others might absorb spiritual qi to build their foundation, but this sphere what''s this theres no mention of this kind of thing in lesson..." He smirked, recalling the cultivation novels of his past life. "I have a feeling that that this thing has huge potential just you wait until I discover it, huhu! ." --- For seven days, Ye Tian repeated his routine¡ªtending to the fruit core, practicing by the waterfall, and watching the sapling''s slow but steady growth. Its transformation amazed him. The fruit core sprouted into a vibrant sapling with leaves resembling those of a peach tree but tinged red, as if kissed by flames. Sitting cross-legged near the tree, Ye Tian inspected his progress. His fire qi sphere had grown denser, its fiery glow pulsating within his knowledge sea. Yet the other elemental spheres eluded him. No matter how hard he tried, the elements of water, earth, wood, and metal refused to take shape. "One cannot feast in haste, nor harvest before the seedling takes root," Ye Tian reminded himself. Patience had always been a virtue he admired, though rarely practiced. --- It was noon on the seventh day when Ye Tian heard a loud voice echoing through the sect grounds. "All disciples, gather at the main courtyard! An important announcement is to be made!" He opened his eyes, his meditation interrupted, and let out a sigh. "What''s this about?" he wondered aloud. His curiosity piqued, and feeling a bit bored after days of solitude, he decided to join the gathering. The sect¡¯s courtyard was bustling with life. Outer disciples murmured amongst themselves, their faces painted with speculation. ¡°What do you think it¡¯s about?¡± asked a thin, nervous-looking boy. ¡°Probably another lecture,¡± groaned a tall disciple with broad shoulders. ¡°They love reminding us how weak we are.¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Ye Tian smirked at the exchange, choosing to remain silent as he slipped into the crowd. His sharp ears caught snippets of conversations. ¡°Did you hear? It might be about the sect trials.¡± ¡°Trials? Already? But it¡¯s too soon!¡± ¡°If you fear the trials, you¡¯re better off being a servant,¡± a cocky voice chimed in, drawing a few chuckles. --- Moments later, a hush fell over the crowd as an elder stepped onto the elevated platform. His robes fluttered slightly in the breeze, and his sharp eyes scanned the gathered disciples. His presence was commanding, yet his face bore a faint smile that betrayed a hint of satisfaction. ¡°Disciples of the White Cloud Sect,¡± the elder began, his voice deep and resonant, carrying easily across the courtyard. ¡°The sect has decided to hold the Sect Trials in two months. This is your opportunity to prove your worth, your dedication, and your strength.¡± The crowd erupted into murmurs, excitement and anxiety rippling through the disciples like a wave. Ye Tian crossed his arms, observing the reactions around him. He could see the ambitious glint in some eyes, the nervous twitch in others. The elder raised his hand, silencing the chatter. ¡°The top ten disciples will be rewarded generously. The rewards will not only include cultivation resources but also the opportunity to train under a core elder . Furthermore, your performance will determine your ranking within the sect.¡± --- ¡°What did I tell you?¡± the tall disciple from earlier whispered to his friend. ¡°Sect trials! This is our chance to climb the ranks.¡± ¡°Yeah, if you don¡¯t embarrass yourself first,¡± the nervous boy retorted, earning a snort of laughter. Ye Tian listened but remained expressionless. Trials, rewards, rankings¡ªthese things didn¡¯t excite him as much as they seemed to excite others. But he knew one thing: participating was inevitable. ¡°This trial might be the perfect stage to test my abilities and make a break through,¡± Ye Tian thought, his eyes narrowing with determination. Beside him, two other disciples whispered excitedly. ¡°Prepare yourselves well,¡± the elder concluded. ¡°The trials will test not only your strength but your intelligence and adaptability. Remember, in the world of cultivation, there is no room for the weak. Only those who persevere can carve their names into the annals of history.¡± As the elder stepped down, the crowd began dispersing, the air buzzing with excitement and tension. --- Walking back to his residence, Ye Tian¡¯s thoughts were a storm of possibilities. The sect trials were a stepping stone¡ªan opportunity to gauge his progress and measure himself against his peers. Looking toward the horizon, where the sun began its slow descent, He clenched his fists, a faint smile on his lips. For Ye Tian, the trials weren¡¯t just about proving his worth¡ªthey were about laying the foundation for his ascent in this vast, boundless world. His goal was much grand than this for it he can do anything. --- Ye Tian returned to his cultivation spot by the waterfall, his mind buzzing with thoughts of the upcoming sect trials. The sound of cascading water drowned out the noise of the world, leaving only the rhythmic pulse of nature and the faint crackle of fire qi within his body. Settling into his usual spot near the young sapling, Ye Tian closed his eyes, his breathing steady and deliberate. The warmth of the midday sun kissed his skin as he began drawing in the surrounding qi. --- High Above, a Silent Observer Perched gracefully on a tree branch above him was Ji Qing Yan. Her slender frame was cloaked in a soft, flowing robe that shimmered faintly in the light. The leaves swayed gently around her as if bowing to her presence. Her eyes, deep and filled with unspoken thoughts, were fixed on Ye Tian below. She rested a delicate hand against the bark, her fingers tracing absent patterns as she whispered to herself, "Why do I keep doing this?" Her lips curved into a faint smile, tinged with both fondness and confusion. She leaned forward slightly, her gaze never leaving Ye Tian. --- Her voice was barely audible, carried away by the breeze. ¡°Five years¡­¡± she murmured. ¡°For five years, I¡¯ve been watching him. At first, it was out of curiosity. The weakest disciple, ridiculed and overlooked, yet he never gave up.¡± Her eyes softened, reflecting a rare vulnerability. ¡°Day after day, he¡¯d train, even when it seemed hopeless. I told myself it didn¡¯t matter. I told myself I didn¡¯t care. But¡­¡± Ji Qing Yan pressed her lips together, her cheeks flushing slightly. Her hand moved to her chest, where she felt the faint stirrings of something unfamiliar. ¡°Why does it feel like his progress is my progress? His triumphs, my triumphs?¡± She shook her head lightly, trying to dispel the thought. But her gaze betrayed her. ¡°It¡¯s foolish,¡± she murmured, a hint of reproach in her tone. ¡°I have nothing to do with him.¡± Ji Qing Yan¡¯s usually composed expression faltered as she let out a quiet sigh. ¡°Even now, when I see him sitting there, cultivating like his life depends on it, I can¡¯t help but feel¡­¡± She hesitated, searching for the right words. She blushed deeper, the pink spreading across her porcelain-like cheeks. ¡°...proud? What nonsense is this?¡± Leaning back against the trunk of the tree, she allowed herself a rare moment of honesty. ¡°Perhaps I¡¯m a fool, standing here like this. Watching him as though I¡¯m part of his journey. As if his accomplishment is also mine¡­¡± -------------------- Chapter 15: Breakthrough, Keepers Treasure Chapter 15: Breakthrough, Keeper''s Treasure She turned to leave but paused, her steps hesitant. Looking back at Ye Tian¡¯s serene figure, As she leapt silently from the branch, her movements as graceful as a falling leaf, her thoughts lingered. Unseen and unheard, she disappeared into the forest, leaving behind only the faintest trace of her presence. Unaware of the watchful eyes that had been upon him, Ye Tian remained seated, his breathing steady, his mind focused solely on his cultivation. The sapling near him swayed gently in the breeze, its crimson leaves catching the sunlight¡ªa quiet witness to the unfolding story of two lives destined to intertwine. --- The stillness of Ye Tian¡¯s cultivation was shattered as his fire-element qi sphere surged with an overwhelming energy. A wave of heaviness engulfed him, making him grit his teeth in discomfort. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as the sphere churned, becoming denser and more refined with every passing moment. A muffled cry escaped his lips, breaking the serenity of the surrounding forest. His eyes snapped open, glowing faintly with a fiery hue. He took a deep breath, stabilizing his chaotic qi. ¡°What... just happened?¡± he muttered to himself, scanning his body internally. A broad smile spread across his face as realization struck. ¡°The 7th stage of Foundation Building!¡± he exclaimed, his voice filled with both disbelief and joy. ¡°And I leaped two stages at once!¡± His fingers trembled slightly as he clenched his fists. ¡°It¡¯s as if the heavens are finally smiling upon me,¡± he whispered, determination gleaming in his eyes. ¡°If this momentum keeps up, the next breakthrough isn¡¯t far.¡± Excited but not reckless, Ye Tian closed his eyes once more, focusing on consolidating his newfound power. --- Two days passed in quiet cultivation. Ye Tian emerged from his meditative state, feeling stronger and sharper. However, his supplies were dwindling. Without herbs to sustain his practice, his progress would falter. He stood and brushed the dust from his robe, a resolute expression on his face. ¡°If I want to continue on this path, I need points. And if I need points, I¡¯ll have to earn them the hard way.¡± Making his way to the practice grounds, Ye Tian¡¯s presence immediately drew attention. Murmurs rippled through the crowd as disciples whispered among themselves. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Ye Tian?¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t he recently defeat Qin Nan and his group?¡± ¡°I heard he¡¯s already at the 7th stage. Who¡¯s he going to challenge now?¡± Unperturbed by the chatter, Ye Tian scanned the area and pointed at a disciple in the Core Formation stage. ¡°I challenge you,¡± he said calmly, his voice carrying across the practice ground. The chosen disciple paled, his confidence evaporating like morning dew under the sun. ¡°J-Junior Brother Ye, why me?¡± he stammered, his voice tinged with nervousness.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Ye Tian cupped his hands in a polite gesture, a faint smile playing on his lips. ¡°Senior Brother, please grant me this opportunity to spar. I promise to hold back... a little.¡± The disciple hesitated but knew refusal would only damage his reputation further. With a resigned sigh, he stepped forward. ¡°Very well, Junior Brother Ye. Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got.¡± --- The duel began, and it quickly became evident that Ye Tian was in complete control. His movements were fluid and precise, his fire-element qi sphere lending his strikes an explosive power that overwhelmed his opponent. The Core Formation disciple struggled, his every move countered effortlessly. Sweat dripped from his brow as he realized the gap in their abilities. With a final, blazing strike, Ye Tian ended the match decisively. He cupped his hands once more and said, ¡°Thank you for the guidance, Senior Brother.¡± The defeated disciple could only smile bitterly, muttering under his breath, ¡°Guidance, my foot... You didn¡¯t even give me a chance.¡± Unfazed, Ye Tian turned his attention to another group of disciples¡ªthose who had once bullied him when he was stuck at the Qi Condensation stage. A sly grin spread across his face. ¡°I see some familiar faces,¡± he said, his tone light but with an edge of mischief. ¡°How about a friendly spar?¡± The color drained from their faces as they exchanged nervous glances. One of them stepped forward, trying to feign confidence. ¡°J-Junior Brother Ye, let¡¯s not hold grudges. The past is the past, right?¡± Ye Tian raised an eyebrow, his smile growing colder. ¡°Oh, I agree. Let¡¯s leave the past behind... but only after this spar.¡± One by one, the matches played out, each ending in Ye Tian¡¯s decisive victory. By the time he finished, his points had significantly increased, and the practice ground buzzed with awe and fear. --- Satisfied with his progress, Ye Tian made his way to the Exchange Hall. Rows of shelves lined the interior, filled with rare herbs, manuals, and treasures. He handed over his points and carefully selected the herbs he needed, his mind already planning his next steps. --- In the serene quiet of the Book Pavilion, Ji Qing Yan pushed open the heavy wooden doors. The soft creak echoed faintly, accompanied by the scent of aged paper and ink. Her graceful steps carried her inside, her figure radiant despite the veil covering her face. At the center of the room, Keeper Zhang, an elderly man with a long white beard and sharp, knowing eyes, looked up from a dusty tome. His calm expression shifted into one of delight as he saw his personal disciple. ¡°Ah, Qing Yan,¡± Keeper Zhang greeted, his voice warm and fatherly. ¡°It¡¯s been a few days since you last visited. What brings you here today?¡± Ji Qing Yan cupped her hands respectfully and bowed. ¡°Master, I have good news to share,¡± she said, her tone brimming with excitement. Keeper Zhang set the book aside, folding his hands over his lap. ¡°Good news, you say? Don¡¯t keep this old man waiting. Speak!¡± Her eyes sparkled as she straightened. ¡°I¡¯ve had a breakthrough, Master. I¡¯ve reached the middle stage of self reunion.¡± For a moment, the room fell silent. Keeper Zhang¡¯s brows lifted, and then his face broke into a wide smile. ¡°Middle stage of self reunion already? Excellent, excellent!¡± he exclaimed, clapping his hands together. ¡°You truly are my treasure. To progress so quickly¡ªgood good!.¡± Ji Qing Yan¡¯s cheeks warmed beneath her veil, and she lowered her gaze slightly. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to your guidance, Master. Without your teachings, I wouldn¡¯t have achieved this.¡± ¡°Guidance only takes a student so far,¡± Keeper Zhang replied, his tone both firm and kind. ¡°The true credit lies with your dedication and effort. I may point the way, but it is you who walks the path.¡± She smiled softly, the praise filling her heart with pride. ¡°Still, I owe so much to you, Master. Thank you for everything.¡± Keeper Zhang leaned back, his expression softening. ¡°Good. But don¡¯t push yourself too hard. Even the strongest trees need time to grow. Balance effort with rest.¡± She nodded, a hint of amusement in her tone. ¡°Yes, Master. You¡¯ve told me this many times before.¡± ¡°And I¡¯ll keep saying it until you listen,¡± Keeper Zhang quipped, his eyes twinkling with humor. Chapter 16: Bonds , eating firey cherry fruit Chapter 16: Bonds , eating firey cherry fruit The secluded waterfall roared, its thunderous sound masking all other noises. Behind the shimmering curtain of water, Ye Tian climbed up to his hidden cave¡ªa place he had painstakingly prepared for his cultivation. The cave, concealed by nature¡¯s grandeur, was modest but sufficient. Large enough for two people to reside comfortably, it offered peace and solitude, qualities Ye Tian cherished. As he entered, he laid down the herbs he had just purchased. His gaze lingered on the collection, each herb a small step toward strengthening his frail constitution. "Pain is temporary; improvement is eternal," Ye Tian muttered to himself, determination flickering in his eyes like a candle against the wind. He began refining the herbs one by one, carefully extracting their essence and guiding it through his meridians. The process was grueling¡ªhis body trembled, and sharp pains wracked him at intervals. At one point, a cry escaped his lips, echoing faintly through the cave. But he clenched his teeth and endured. The heat inside him surged, his skin glowing faintly as impurities burned away. It was as though he were being tempered like a blade, hammered by the fire of resolve. Hours passed¡ªfifteen in total¡ªbefore Ye Tian finally opened his eyes. A sense of lightness enveloped him, and as he clenched his fists, he felt his body became much lighter. ¡°So this is what feels to have a good Constitution, I envy others to have good Constitution,¡± Ye Tian murmured. ¡°Now, even Core Formation cultivators at the second stage won''t trouble me.¡± But his moment of triumph was interrupted. He sensed a presence outside the waterfall, a faint yet familiar aura. Curious, he walked to the entrance of the cave, peering down through the veil of cascading water. There, standing near the waterfall, was Su Ling. The girl stood alone, her figure blending seamlessly with the mystical surroundings. Her long black hair cascaded down her back like a silken waterfall of its own, and her eyes held a light that seemed to pierce through the misty veil. As she stood there, gazing at the scenery, her presence seemed almost magical, as though she belonged to this ethereal place. She was like a delicate flower blooming in a hidden garden, waiting to be discovered. Despite her fragile appearance, she radiated quiet strength. Time seemed to bend around this moment, as if reality itself had been woven around the girl and the one she awaited. The air vibrated with anticipation, like a whispered promise of possibilities. And then, as the mist swirled, and the waterfall thundered on, she sensed it ¨C a presence, a disturbance in the balance, a promise of arrival... The roaring of the waterfall couldn¡¯t mask the ancient energy that hummed in the air, weaving an unspoken connection between her and the one she awaited. Ye Tian smiled faintly as he watched her. "A lone flower blooming in the wilderness, unaware of the beauty she bestows upon the world," he thought, the corners of his lips curling upward. He descended from his hidden cave, his movements quiet but purposeful. Su Ling turned, sensing his approach before seeing him. Her face lit up with a radiant smile, one that could make the full moon shy away in envy. ¡°Junior Brother Tian,¡± she said, her voice as warm and melodic as a spring breeze. ¡°You¡¯ve finally decided to show yourself?¡± ¡°Senior Sister Su,¡± Ye Tian greeted, cupping his hands in respect. ¡°It¡¯s been a while.¡± ¡°A while?¡± Su Ling raised an eyebrow, her smile fading into a playful pout. ¡°You didn¡¯t even look for me. Do you know how busy I¡¯ve been with sect missions? And yet, I had to come find you instead of the other way around.¡± Ye Tian scratched the back of his head, chuckling nervously. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to neglect you, Senior Sister. I¡¯ve been¡­occupied.¡±Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Occupied?¡± Su Ling¡¯s eyes narrowed, though amusement danced within them. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been hiding here all this time, training without sparing a thought for your Senior Sister. Honestly, I should punish you for your insolence.¡± Ye Tian smiled faintly. ¡°How should I make amends then, Senior Sister?¡± Su Ling folded her arms, tilting her head slightly as if deep in thought. ¡°Hmm¡­perhaps you should call me ¡®Elder Sister Su Ling¡¯ for the rest of the day. That might suffice.¡± Ye Tian¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that make it sound like you¡¯re far older than me?¡± Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she smacked his shoulder lightly. ¡°You¡¯re incorrigible! No wonder I have to keep an eye on you.¡± Their laughter mingled with the sounds of the waterfall, filling the air with a rare lightheartedness. As the conversation ebbed, Su Ling¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Junior Brother, it¡¯s good to see you¡¯re progressing so quickly,¡± she said sincerely. ¡°I always believed you had potential. You just needed the right push.¡± Ye Tian nodded. ¡°Your encouragement means a lot, Senior Sister. Without your help, I wouldn¡¯t have made it this far.¡± Su Ling waved her hand dismissively, though her eyes betrayed her delight at his words. ¡°Don¡¯t flatter me too much. You¡¯re the one putting in the effort. I¡¯m just here to ensure you don¡¯t slack off.¡± As the sun reached its zenith, Su Ling finally sighed. ¡°I should be going. There¡¯s much to do. Being a core disciple isn¡¯t just a title, you know¡ªit comes with responsibilities.¡± ¡°Take care, Senior Sister,¡± Ye Tian said, bowing slightly. She turned to leave but paused, glancing over her shoulder. ¡°Oh, and Junior Brother¡­don¡¯t forget to think of me once in a while. Or I might really punish you next time.¡± With that, she disappeared into the forest, her figure vanishing like a dream fading with the morning light. Ye Tian watched her go, his expression thoughtful. ¡°She¡¯s like a steady flame, illuminating the path ahead,¡± he murmured to himself. ¡°I must not let her down.¡± ¡°The mountains may rise high, but the sky above them is boundless,¡± he thought, his eyes shining with resolve. As Ye Tian turned toward his hidden cave, his steps faltered. A sudden thought crossed his mind, drawing his gaze toward the tree he had planted months ago. The tree now stood tall and majestic, its leaves shimmering in the golden sunlight filtering through the waterfall¡¯s mist. He approached it, a mixture of curiosity and amusement dancing in his eyes. "This world truly defies logic," he muttered, shaking his head. "The growth speed of plants here is utterly ridiculous." The tree, which should have taken years to mature, was already bearing fruit. A single, vibrant fruit hung from its branch, glowing faintly with an otherworldly hue. Ye Tian reached out to touch the fruit, his fingertips brushing against its smooth surface. He chuckled to himself. He leaned closer, inspecting it with a mix of reverence and hunger. ¡°I knew planting this tree was a good idea,¡± he murmured, his lips curling into a small smile. ¡°It¡¯s about time I enjoyed the literal fruits of my labor what''s it called again! Firey Cherry fruit I guess!?.¡± But as he prepared to pluck it, he hesitated, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. "What if this fruit is poisonous?" he muttered, narrowing his eyes. "No, that¡¯s unlikely. If it¡¯s poisonous, then why does it look so appetizing?" He stepped back, crossing his arms and tilting his head as he studied the tree. "Still, in cultivation, appearances can be deceiving. A beautiful flower often hides deadly thorns." Despite his musings, his resolve didn¡¯t waver. His eyes gleamed with determination as he spoke to himself, "If I don¡¯t take risks, how will I progress? A ship is safest in the harbor, but that¡¯s not what ships are built for." Reaching up, he plucked the fruit from the branch. The faint glow intensified as if the fruit acknowledged his decision. He held it in his hand, weighing it thoughtfully. ¡°Alright, you strange little fruit,¡± he said with a wry smile, ¡°let¡¯s see if you¡¯re a gift from the heavens or a test of my endurance.¡± Ye Tian bit into the fruit cautiously. The moment the juice touched his tongue, his eyes widened in surprise. It was unlike anything he had ever tasted¡ªa burst of sweetness, followed by a tangy undertone that seemed to invigorate his senses. ¡°This¡­ this is amazing!¡± he exclaimed, his expression lighting up like a child discovering a hidden treasure. He quickly took another bite, savoring every morsel. As he ate, he felt a warm energy spreading through his body, seeping into his meridians like a gentle stream. His skin glowed faintly, and his dantian seemed to hum in harmony with the energy. ¡°Not only is it delicious,¡± he said, his tone filled with excitement, ¡°but it¡¯s also enhancing my cultivation. This fruit is worth more than gold!¡± He sat down beneath the tree, leaning against its sturdy trunk as he finished the fruit. The peaceful atmosphere of the waterfall and the gentle rustling of leaves seemed to embrace him, offering a rare moment of tranquility. As he closed his eyes to absorb the energy, he murmured to himself, "Life is like this fruit¡ªunexpected, vibrant, and sometimes a little risky. But those who dare to taste it are the ones who truly live." The warm energy continued to course through him, and Ye Tian felt his connection to the elemental sphere deepen. He came to an unexpected realization as if the elements telling him to try to control them and this time he was like confident he could make and control at least two elemental sphere other than the fire one. ------------------------- Chapter 17: The Symphony of Elements Chapter 17: The Symphony of Elements Ye Tian sat cross-legged in the dim chamber of his secluded cave, the sound of the waterfall outside a faint yet soothing backdrop to his meditation. A warm energy coursed through him like an unending river of vitality, feeding his very soul. His connection to the elemental fire sphere in his dantian had deepened significantly, but something stirred within him¡ªa new challenge, a new possibility. "It¡¯s like they¡¯re calling me," Ye Tian muttered under his breath, his brows furrowing. His eyes remained shut, but the faintest of smiles tugged at the corner of his lips. "Or maybe they¡¯re just bored and want to see me struggle." He took a deep breath, his chest rising and falling rhythmically. "Let¡¯s see if I can manage two. Fire¡¯s been a loyal ally¡­ let¡¯s add to the family." Ye Tian began drawing in the surrounding energy. A subtle, vibrant aura started to form¡ªit was wood elemental energy, soft yet unyielding. It felt like the gentle growth of a sapling, firm yet flexible, weaving through his body. "Wood¡­ not bad," Ye Tian whispered, a calm confidence in his tone. "At least it¡¯s not something obnoxious, like lightning. I don¡¯t think I¡¯m ready to fry myself yet." But his moment of triumph was short-lived. Without warning, a torrent of water elemental energy surged in, disrupting the balance he¡¯d just begun to establish. The soothing flow of water clashed fiercely with the growing strength of the wood, creating a storm of opposing forces within him. Ye Tian¡¯s face twisted into a grimace. "Okay, that¡¯s too much enthusiasm! Water, calm down. I¡¯m not a sponge!" Sweat began to bead on his forehead as the conflicting energies threatened to overwhelm him. His breathing quickened, his hands clenched into fists, and a stern expression replaced his earlier smirk. "This¡­ this is like herding cats," Ye Tian groaned. "Except the cats are on fire and drowning at the same time." Despite the chaos raging within, Ye Tian¡¯s mind remained sharp. He focused inward, calling upon his fire elemental sphere. The flames flickered to life within his dantian, steady and unwavering. "Let¡¯s see how you two like a bit of discipline," he muttered, his tone laced with determination. The fire energy surged forth, its heat suppressing the wild growth of the wood. As the flames burned through the overgrown energy, the water element began to separate naturally. Slowly, the storm within him began to calm.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Ye Tian¡¯s face relaxed slightly, though his focus remained intense. "Ah, fire, my old friend. You¡¯re like the strict teacher nobody likes but everyone needs." Bit by bit, the water energy coalesced into a sphere, taking its place opposite the fire sphere. With the water stabilized, Ye Tian retracted the fire energy, allowing the wood element to settle and form its own sphere. The three spheres now rotated harmoniously within his dantian, absorbing elemental energy from the surroundings. Ye Tian let out a deep sigh of relief, his face softening into a satisfied smile. "Finally," he muttered, leaning back slightly. "I was starting to think I¡¯d explode like an overstuffed dumpling." As the spheres stabilized, Ye Tian felt a sudden surge of power. His entire body glowed faintly, the energy within him growing stronger and more refined. The qi in his dantian expanded, filling him with a sense of boundless strength. He opened his eyes, which gleamed with newfound clarity. A slow grin spread across his face. "Core Formation¡­ First Stage. Not bad, Ye Tian. Not bad at all." He stretched his arms, his joints cracking audibly. "I feel like I could wrestle a tiger¡ªor at least scare one off with my fiery good looks." Ye Tian glanced around the cave, his eyes lingering on the faint etchings on the walls. "Wait¡­ how long was I out?" He checked his internal clock, his jaw dropping slightly. "Five days? Five days?! No wonder I¡¯m starving. I feel like I could eat an entire cow¡­ or maybe just the fruit from that tree outside." Ye Tian stepped out of the cave, blinking against the bright sunlight. The waterfall thundered down in its endless cascade, the mist glistening like diamonds in the air. The forest beyond was alive with vibrant colors, the leaves rustling softly in the breeze. The scene was almost poetic, as if the world itself was welcoming him into his newfound strength. "I don¡¯t remember the waterfall looking this good," he muttered, scratching the back of his head. "Maybe breaking through improved my eyesight. Or maybe I¡¯m just delirious from hunger." He walked toward the tree he¡¯d planted some time ago, his eyes lighting up as he saw its progress. The once-small sapling had grown into a sturdy tree, its branches heavy with leaves¡ªand a single fruit hanging from the highest bough. "Finally!" Ye Tian exclaimed, clapping his hands together. "I knew planting this tree was a good idea. And look at that fruit! It¡¯s practically begging to be eaten." He paused, squinting at the fruit. "Although¡­ isn¡¯t this growth speed a bit ridiculous? " Plucking the fruit, he held it in his hand, marveling at its vibrant color and faint, otherworldly glow. "You better not taste like those bitter pills I¡¯ve been choking down," he muttered before taking a bite. The sweet, refreshing flavor burst across his tongue, and his eyes widened in delight. "This¡­ this is amazing!" he exclaimed, juice dripping down his chin. "If cultivation doesn¡¯t work out, I¡¯ll start a fruit orchard. Who needs alchemy when you¡¯ve got nature¡¯s! Umm let''s let''s not consider it I want to become immortal after all?" He sat beneath the tree, savoring the fruit and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. For a moment, all his struggles and challenges felt distant, and he allowed himself to simply exist in the moment. "Life isn¡¯t so bad," Ye Tian murmured, leaning back against the tree with a satisfied sigh. "But I swear, if another element decides to throw a tantrum in my dantian, I¡¯m taking a vacation."