《Unseen Limits》


 chapter 1 : The First Step into the Unknown

    "UGH¡­ IT HURTS!"


    Pain seared through me like wildfire, consuming every nerve, every thought. My body convulsed on the cold ground as I gritted my teeth, trying to endure the agony tearing me apart from the inside out. Then, without warning, a torrent of foreign memories flooded my mind.


    Faces I didn''t recognize. Names I''d never spoken. Moments that weren''t mine.


    The chaos was overwhelming, but somehow, amidst the onslaught, I clung to my sense of self. When the storm subsided, I lay gasping for air, drenched in sweat and trembling. My hands clenched into fists as the realization hit me: I had transmigrated.


    The fragments of memory painted a bleak picture. This body belonged to a nameless outer disciple of a powerful sect. No cultivation. No background. A nobody. I sighed, letting the weight of my new reality sink in.


    I''ve started from nothing before. I can do it again.


    The air around me was heavy with an unfamiliar aura. The world felt strange, distant, and dangerous. My grim thoughts were interrupted by a sudden awareness of my filthy state¡ªsweat and grime clung to me like a second skin.


    I forced myself to stand, wincing at the lingering ache in my muscles. My modest dwelling was sparse¡ªa single bed, a few chairs, and a bathroom tucked away in the corner. The emptiness mirrored the void I felt inside, but there was no time to dwell. I trudged into the bathroom and scrubbed away the dirt, the cold water shocking my senses back into focus.


    When I emerged, the memories I''d inherited gave me a grim understanding of this world''s rules: the strong ruled, and the weak were nothing more than stepping stones. If I wanted to survive, I needed power.


    Taking a deep breath, I murmured, "System."


    A flicker of light, and a translucent screen appeared before me.


    [SYSTEM ACTIVATED]


    [HOST: YI LIAN]


    [CULTIVATION: NULL]


    [PASSIVE ABILITIES: APPRAISAL, MENTAL LOCK]


    My gaze lingered on the words, their meaning sinking in. The system was my greatest weapon¡ªbut it wouldn''t carry me on its own. I needed time, effort, and resources to unlock its true potential.


    As exhaustion began to overtake me, I resolved to start anew the next day. The sect library would be my first stop. I needed knowledge¡ªcultivation arts, techniques, anything to gain an edge.


    But as I drifted to sleep, unaware, the winds outside shifted.


    The courtyard was no longer empty.


    A woman stood beneath the moonlight, her robes flowing like liquid jade and her presence serene yet commanding. Her eyes glimmered with curiosity as they swept over the humble abode. With a graceful flick of her wrist, a chair and table materialized before her, and she seated herself, awaiting the moment I would wake.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    CHIRP. CHIRP.


    Morning broke with the sound of birdsong. I stretched and dressed, preparing to set out.


    CREAK.


    The door opened, and I froze. A woman sat in the courtyard, her robes shimmering like starlight. Her gaze was calm, yet it pierced through me with an intensity that made my blood run cold.


    Got it! Here''s the adjusted dialogue to let the protagonist make the decision to call her "Master" after some thought and internal struggle:


    Revised Dialogue


    "May I ask what brings you here, Senior?"


    I kept my tone respectful, masking the unease gnawing at me. My gaze flickered to the intricate patterns on her robes¡ªcelestial designs that shimmered faintly under the soft morning light.


    She tilted her head slightly, a small, unreadable smile gracing her lips. "May I ask something first?"


    Her voice was calm, almost melodic, but there was an edge beneath the surface.


    I nodded, straightening my posture. "Of course, Senior."


    Her eyes seemed to pierce through me, stripping away every layer of pretense. "Who are you, and why are you here?"


    The question was simple, yet it felt as if she were prying directly into my soul. My heart thudded in my chest as I weighed my response. She couldn''t possibly know the truth¡ªor could she?


    "I am Yi Lian," I said cautiously. "A newly recruited outer disciple of the sect."


    Her smile widened, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "And?"


    My blood ran cold. She knows.


    Desperation clawed at my mind. Appraisal.


    [ERROR]


    [HOST IS TOO WEAK TO USE APPRAISAL ON HER.]


    [HOST HAS BEEN DETECTED.]


    Her expression shifted¡ªa mix of amusement and intrigue. "So, you thought to pry into my identity?" she asked, her tone deceptively light. "Bold, considering your meager cultivation."


    I froze, my mouth dry. "I meant no offense, Senior¡ª"


    "Enough," she interrupted, her voice sharp yet composed. "I saw everything, Yi Lian. You cannot hide from me."


    Her words struck me like thunder. My breath caught as I tried to compose myself. "Senior, I don''t know what you mean¡­"


    Her gaze hardened, the faintest glimmer of spiritual energy swirling in her eyes. "Don''t insult me with lies."


    Silence stretched between us, heavy and suffocating. Finally, she leaned back in her chair, her demeanor softening, though her authority remained palpable.


    "You''ve done well to adapt so quickly," she remarked, her tone almost casual. "Most would''ve been consumed by the process."


    Her words sent a chill down my spine. She had seen it. My transmigration.


    "How¡­?" My voice faltered.


    "I watched." Her answer was simple, yet the implications sent my mind spinning.


    I swallowed hard, my hands trembling. "Then¡­ why are you here?"


    Her lips curved into the faintest smile. "Because you intrigue me. Your soul does not belong to this world, yet it fits this body perfectly. That alone makes you¡­ unique."


    Her words hung in the air, and I couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more she wasn''t saying.


    Finally, she stood, her robes flowing around her like liquid starlight. "I''ve decided to take you as my disciple."


    Her declaration struck me like lightning. I stared at her, stunned into silence. Why would someone like her¡ªa figure of obvious power and influence¡ªchoose me?


    I clenched my fists, my thoughts racing. I needed to survive in this world, and she offered an opportunity I couldn''t refuse. But there was also an undeniable weight to her words. Accepting this wouldn''t just mean gaining a master¡ªit would mean binding my fate to hers.


    My heart pounded as I slowly knelt, lowering my head.


    "Disciple greets Master," I said, my voice trembling with a mix of fear and determination.


    A flicker of approval passed over her face. "Good. Follow me, Yi Lian. From this day forward, your life will no longer be your own."

 chapter 2 : A Path Unseen

    Her words left me uneasy, but I pushed the discomfort aside for the time being.


    After a deep breath, I made my way to the sect''s library.


    The library was an ancient structure, vast and enduring the passage of time. Its aura was strangely mesmerizing, peaceful¡ªas if the wisdom of countless generations had been woven into its very stones.


    Inside, the silence was overwhelming, broken only by the faint rustling of paper. The only other occupant was an elder seated at the counter. His presence was imposing yet calm, like a mountain that could not be moved.


    I approached him, requesting books on the basics of cultivation and the realm''s history. He gave me a discerning look, then pulled two books from separate shelves and handed them to me.


    "Disciple badge?" he asked, his voice low and firm.


    I retrieved the disciple badge my master had given me and showed it to him.


    Upon seeing the badge, his expression softened in surprise. He nodded in acknowledgment, sending me off with no further words.


    After leaving the library, I made my way to my cave abode.


    Once inside, I sat down, the weight of the books in my hands grounding me. I had to understand the world I had entered.


    The texts offered a clearer picture of this realm¡ªEternal Sky Realm, a place where cultivators and mortals coexisted.


    The realm was governed by four major sects and three powerful beast clans:


    Top Sects:


    Eternal Star Sect


    Mystic Dawn Sect


    Rising Sun Sect


    Frozen Moon Sect


    Beast Clans:


    Skyfire Phoenix Tribe


    Celestial Wolf Clan


    Azure Roc Tribe


    Cultivation was divided into six levels:


    Body Strengthening Essence Gathering Energy Transformation Core Formation Rebirth Soul Divine Body


    Each level had three stages: Low, Middle, and Perfect.


    I was in the Mystic Dawn Sect, one of the Top Four Sects.


    The Sect Master, Jing Xuan, was renowned for her extraordinary powers. She was also a Creator¡ªone of the rarest and most revered individuals. It was said she had reached the Immortal Level of cultivation.


    The Mystic Dawn Sect had five Peaks. The first four were presided over by Peak Masters, each with their disciples. The fifth was solely occupied by the Sect Master.


    Creators were regarded with unmatched reverence in the sects and beast clans. They had the unparalleled ability to create cultivation techniques, and their status was second only to the Sect Master.


    After absorbing all the information, I glanced outside. The sky had transformed from azure blue to a cascade of gold, pinks, and deep crimson. The sun sank toward the horizon, casting its final rays across the land. The clouds rippled, brushed with burnished gold, as though the heavens themselves were painted by a divine hand.


    The air grew thick with the scent of dusk¡ªearthy herbs, wild blossoms, and the promise of cool night air. The wind, once warm, now carried a chill, like the breath of ancient spirits. It felt as though the entire world paused, taking a deep breath before the stillness of night took over.


    Mesmerized by the beauty, I let my tension slip away. Walking into the courtyard, I sat on a chair, closed my eyes, and soaked in the tranquility. My thoughts drifted, and before I knew it, I had fallen into a peaceful slumber.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    YAWNNNN


    I awoke with a stretch, the weight of my upcoming meeting with my master stirring my heart. After a quick bath, I took one last look at my humble abode and took a deep breath to steady my racing thoughts.


    As I made my way toward the peak, I noticed the desolate surroundings¡ªno disciples, no masters, only trees and a few animals. I knew the other Peaks were home to their respective Peak Masters and disciples, but the Sect Master''s peak was different¡ªisolated.


    Suddenly, a realization struck me: My master was the Sect Master of one of the Top Four Sects. That was why the elder at the library had been so surprised when he saw my disciple badge.


    A rush of excitement swelled in my chest. I was both honored and terrified. My master was an immortal-level cultivator, one of the most powerful beings in the realm. What would she expect of me? Was I meant to simply be a peaceful disciple, or did she want more? Would I have to fight, rise in power, and shape the world according to her will? Would I lose my dream of a quiet, simple life?


    But then again, what choice did I have? To refuse her was to refuse my place in this world.


    As these thoughts swirled in my mind, I arrived at the entrance to her abode. My heart raced. Taking another deep breath, I stepped forward, trying to steady my nerves.


    Would this meeting decide my fate?


    I entered, and the first thing I saw was the ethereal figure of my master, Jing Xuan. She sat gracefully in lotus position on a cushion of delicate lotus petals. Her aura was serene yet commanding, like a tranquil sea hiding immense power beneath.


    Her robes, a cascade of jade greens, whites, and pale blues, rippled like water with every passing breeze. Celestial symbols and blooming lotuses shimmered in the dim moonlight, testaments to her extraordinary cultivation.


    Her hair, long and dark as the night sky, was pinned with ethereal ornaments that sparkled like distant stars. She radiated an aura that transcended mortal understanding, an embodiment of grace, power, and wisdom.


    For a moment, I stood frozen, awestruck. She was more than I could have imagined¡ªan almost divine presence. Her beauty, her power¡ªit was overwhelming.


    Then, she cleared her throat, the sound cutting through the stillness like a sharp wind. My trance broke, and I quickly lowered my gaze in respect, embarrassed by my staring.


    "Come forward," she said, her voice clear and commanding.


    I stepped closer, my heart pounding in my chest. The air around her shimmered, distorting as though reality itself bent in her presence. It was as if her very being was one with the world, her cultivation levels beyond anything I had ever imagined.


    Her eyes slowly opened.


    Jing Xuan''s eyes, deep as the abyss and glinting with a faint silver light, met mine. There was no warmth in them, only an inscrutable gaze that seemed to peer through every layer of my being.


    "You''ve inherited this body," she began, her voice calm but edged with authority. "Yet you carry the weight of a soul not from this world. Tell me, Yi Lian, do you know the significance of that?"


    I swallowed, unsure how to respond. Her words confirmed what I feared¡ªshe knew everything. My voice trembled slightly as I replied, "I¡­ I don''t fully understand, Master."


    She raised an elegant brow, a flicker of disappointment crossing her face. "You cling to ignorance. Unwise. In this world, ignorance is death. But perhaps you are not entirely to blame. You are like a seed scattered in a storm¡ªlost, unrooted, and powerless."


    Her words stung, but I held my tongue.


    "You find yourself in the Mystic Dawn Sect, the strongest of the four sects in this realm. We are not a haven for the weak, nor are we merciful to the useless. The path ahead of you is perilous. Only strength will secure your place here¡ªand even that might not be enough."


    She rose from her seat, her robes flowing like liquid moonlight as she walked toward me. I instinctively lowered my gaze, but she stopped a mere step away, her presence suffocating.


    "You possess something¡­ unusual." Her voice softened, yet it carried a gravity that made my chest tighten. "Your soul has been tempered, twisted by forces I cannot yet fathom. It should have torn you apart when you arrived. But you survived. That alone makes you¡­ interesting."


    Her fingers brushed against the air, and a translucent screen appeared before her¡ªmy system.


    [SYSTEM ACTIVATED]


    [HOST: YI LIAN]


    [CULTIVATION: NULL]


    [PASSIVE ABILITIES: APPRAISAL, MENTAL LOCK]


    Her gaze lingered on the screen for a moment before it vanished. "This¡­ system. It is not of this world. It will be both your greatest asset and your greatest curse. Powers such as these come with a cost, and in this realm, the weak cannot afford such luxuries."


    I clenched my fists, a mix of shame and determination rising within me. "I don''t intend to remain weak, Master."


    Her lips curved into the faintest of smiles, though it lacked warmth. "Bold words, but words mean nothing here, Yi Lian. This world respects only action and results. Your resolve will be tested, your limits pushed. And if you falter¡­ I will not."


    She stood, her robes cascading like flowing water, and raised her hand. The space around us shimmered, distorting as though the very fabric of reality were bending to her will.


    "Follow me," she said simply.


    I obeyed, my steps hesitant. She led me deeper into her cave abode, through winding corridors lined with strange glowing runes. The air grew colder, the light dimmer, until we arrived at a massive set of doors.


    The doors pulsed with an ancient energy, carved with intricate symbols that seemed to move under their own volition.


    "What lies beyond this door," she began, her voice soft yet filled with gravity, "will determine whether you live or die."


    I froze, my breath caught in my throat.


    She turned to face me, her expression unreadable but her eyes holding an intensity that made my knees weak.


    "Do not disappoint me, Yi Lian," she said. With a flick of her wrist, the doors groaned open, revealing an abyss shrouded in swirling darkness.


    Before I could protest, a force pulled me forward.


    The last thing I saw was her faint smile as the darkness consumed me.

 chapter 3 : Solitudes Weight

    The pull of the abyss was overwhelming, an invisible force dragging me into its depths. The last thing I saw was my master, Jing Xuan, her faint, enigmatic smile lingering in my mind as the darkness consumed me.


    I fell into a void where time seemed to stretch and twist, and my senses dulled. I didn''t know if I was floating or falling, but then, with a sudden jolt, I found myself standing on solid ground.


    Around me, the darkness began to fade, replaced by a world bathed in soft, golden light. I was atop a high mountain peak, the air crisp and serene. In the distance, an endless forest stretched out, its verdant canopy blending seamlessly with the horizon. The tranquility was striking¡ªa world untouched by chaos, perfectly still.


    The words of my master echoed in my mind:


    "Experience the peace you seek for yourself."


    This must have been her doing¡ªa test, an illusion, or perhaps even an alternate reality she had created to challenge me. The very air hummed with a subtle energy, as if the world itself was watching, waiting for me to act.


    I wandered the peak, exploring my surroundings. There was a small wooden house, a garden of vibrant flowers, and a stream trickling down the mountain. For a moment, I allowed myself to breathe, the serenity calming my nerves.


    Yet, unease lingered in my chest. Was this truly the peace I sought? Or was it merely a fleeting illusion, a trap to test my resolve?


    Day 1


    At first, I embraced the simplicity of life on the mountain. I woke to the gentle calls of birds, drank from the stream, and marveled at the unbroken beauty of the forest. The peace was undeniable, a balm to my weary soul.


    Yet, as the day stretched into night, the stillness grew suffocating. With no purpose, no challenge, I felt a creeping emptiness.


    Was this all there was to peace?


    Day 10


    I ventured down the mountain, eager to explore the forest below. The trees stood like ancient sentinels, their roots weaving intricate patterns in the soil. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature, but it was a solitary life¡ªno people, no conflict, no conversation.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    At first, I relished the solitude, but as the days passed, I felt a growing restlessness. I had wanted peace, but this¡­ this was something else entirely. It was isolation.


    Day 30


    My exploration led me to the edge of the forest, where I discovered a vast, glittering ocean. Its waves danced under the sunlight, a constant, rhythmic motion that contrasted with the stillness of the mountain.


    I built a small shelter on the beach and spent my days fishing and swimming in the clear waters. For a time, the ocean became my new home, offering a sense of freedom that the mountain lacked.


    But once again, the monotony crept in. Each day blurred into the next, and I found myself yearning for something more¡ªsomething that would challenge me, push me beyond this endless routine.


    Day 180


    Driven by restlessness, I decided to sail across the ocean, hoping to find new lands. It took months to craft a boat sturdy enough for the journey, but when it was finally complete, I set out with renewed purpose.


    The first weeks were calm, the sea a vast expanse of blue beneath a cloudless sky. But as I ventured further, the ocean turned treacherous. Storm clouds gathered, and the wind howled like a vengeful spirit.


    Waves rose like towering beasts, crashing against my small vessel. Lightning split the sky, illuminating the chaos for brief moments before plunging me back into darkness.


    A massive wave struck, capsizing the boat. I was thrown into the churning waters, my body battered and broken. As I sank, a bolt of lightning struck near me, its blinding light burning an image into my mind: the faint smile of Jing Xuan.


    ....


    I awoke on the shore, my body aching but miraculously whole. The storm had passed, leaving behind a landscape ravaged by its fury. My boat was gone, and I was alone once more.


    That''s when I heard it.


    ROAR!


    The ground trembled, and I froze. The sound was unlike anything I had ever heard¡ªdeep, guttural, and filled with a primal rage. From the corner of my eye, I saw a shadow moving through the trees. It was massive, its form obscured by the dense foliage.


    I scrambled to my feet, my mind racing. I had no weapon, no plan. The peace I had sought, the calm that had lulled me into complacency, was shattered.


    The shadow drew closer, its presence oppressive. My instincts screamed at me to run, but my legs refused to obey.


    Then, a familiar voice echoed in my mind¡ªJing Xuan''s voice, calm and commanding:


    "Yi Lian, peace is fleeting. Strength is eternal. Stand and fight, or be consumed."


    Her words snapped me out of my paralysis. I clenched my fists, my heart pounding with adrenaline. This was my trial, my test. The peace I had desired was not a gift¡ªit was a challenge.


    The shadow emerged, revealing a monstrous beast unlike anything I had ever seen. Its eyes burned with an otherworldly fire, and its claws tore through the earth as it advanced.


    I took a deep breath, my fear giving way to determination. I had survived the storm, the isolation, the emptiness. I would survive this too.


    The beast charged, and with it, my trial truly began.

 Chapter 4: Clash of Survival

    The creature that emerged from the shadows was like nothing I had ever imagined¡ªa towering, fire-blazing ape, its eyes glowing with malevolent intelligence. It roared, the sound a primal, bone-shaking cry that sent waves of terror through me. Every fiber of my being screamed to run, to escape into the sanctuary of the mountain or the forest, but deep down I knew I couldn''t outrun it.


    I had to face it.


    I knew now, this wasn''t a test. There would be no second chances. If I didn''t fight, I would be consumed.


    As our eyes locked, it let out a bone-chilling roar.


    ROAR!


    Every fiber of my being screamed to flee, and I didn''t hesitate. I turned and sprinted toward the cave, my heart hammering in my chest. The cave was narrow, its ceiling only 6 feet high, but it was my only chance. It might just slow the beast down.


    As I rushed deeper into the cave, the full weight of my situation crashed down on me. This was no simulation, no game. The creature chasing me was a Demon Beast. I had to think fast. In a desperate flash, I activated Appraisal to learn more about it.


    Appraisal


    [RACE: APE]


    [BLOODLINE: FIRE DEMON APE BLOODLINE]


    [CULTIVATION: BODY STRENGTHENING (LOW)]


    A low-level Body Strengthening Demon Ape. Despite its relatively weak cultivation, its fiery elemental power made it a fearsome opponent, capable of facing a mid-level Body Strengthening cultivator. I was completely unprepared. I had saved my points, thinking of using it, when i need it , but now, I realized my life was in jeopardy. I quickly called out to the system.


    "System, how many points would I need to upgrade my cultivation to low Body Strengthening?"


    "600 points," the system responded.


    I opened my status window as I ran, panic clawing at my throat.


    [HOST: YI LIAN]


    [CULTIVATION: NULL]


    [PASSIVE ABILITIES: APPRAISAL, MENTAL LOCK]


    [CREATION POINTS: 750]The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    I had saved 750 creation points by crafting weapons and a boat for travel. There was no time for hesitation. I used every single point to upgrade my cultivation.


    "System, upgrade my cultivation to low Body Strengthening."


    As soon as I spoke, an overwhelming surge of power coursed through my veins. It felt like my very essence was being rewritten. My strength tripled in an instant, and with it, a sharp clarity sharpened my senses. My body was now strong enough to at least hold my ground.


    I glanced over my shoulder. The ape was only 10 meters behind me, charging forward with the fury of a storm, and I knew it would overtake me if I didn''t act.


    Without thinking, I turned and charged straight toward it. The ape, seeing me approach, roared in rage.


    ROAR!


    The ground quaked beneath us as it closed the gap, its monstrous form barreling toward me. When it came within range, I threw a punch, my fist rocketing toward its face. It responded in kind, its massive arm crashing toward me. The moment our fists collided, the world seemed to explode with sound.


    CRACK! CRACK!


    Pain flared in my arm as my bone fractured. I gritted my teeth, fighting against the agony, and pushed forward with every ounce of willpower. The ape, momentarily stunned by the force of my strike, hesitated for a split second.


    That was all I needed. I moved in like a predator, I plunged my arm into the ape''s stomach and tore it open. It howled in pain, clutching its wound, but I wasn''t finished. Without mercy, I drove my hand into its face, gouging its eyes out with brutal precision.


    Blinded, the ape thrashed wildly, its body slamming against the cave walls as it desperately tried to throw me off. But I refused to relinquish my hold. With ruthless determination, I pushed my hands deeper into its skull, unwilling to let go.


    When the hand found its brain, I pressed it in with all my strength, ignoring the searing heat pouring from the ape''s fiery body.


    In the blink of an eye, the beast never stood a chance. It crumpled to the ground, lifeless.


    Breathing heavily, I leaned against the cold, jagged wall of the cave, my chest heaving. Slowly, cautiously, I approached the fallen ape, praying to find a core¡ªa crystallized energy source that could form inside cultivators or demon beasts. Only a rare few possessed one, so I searched the body with trembling hands.


    I felt no core in its brain or stomach. Not in its lungs or legs. Just as despair began to creep in, my hand brushed against its right arm¡ªand there it was.


    With trembling hands, I pulled out the core. It was about the size of a ping-pong ball, glowing with an intense, fiery red light. Demon beast cores had immense power. Consuming one could elevate a cultivator''s strength, but they had to be used with extreme caution. If consumed recklessly, they could cause a cultivator''s energy to spiral out of control. In rare cases, they could even grant the bloodline abilities of the creature it came from.


    I didn''t hesitate. In this perilous situation, surrounded by unknown dangers, I knew I couldn''t afford to be weak. If I wanted to survive, if I wanted to face whatever else this world had in store, I needed to grow stronger. Without a second thought, I swallowed the core whole, feeling my resolve harden with every heartbeat.


    The moment the core hit my stomach, an explosive wave of energy surged through my body. My fractured bones healed, the burns from the ape''s fiery body began to fade, and I felt my strength swell with each passing second. But then¡­ the heat within me spiraled out of control. I tried to reign it in, but my body refused to obey. The heat spread, roaring through my veins like wildfire, burning my very soul. My skin seared, as though my body was being consumed from within.


    My vision blurred, and my consciousness began to slip away. One thought echoed in my mind, louder than any other:


    What went wrong?

 Chapter 5: Forged in Flames

    As I woke up, I found myself feeling confused about my situation. After sitting up and stretching my body, I carefully checked for any injuries or lingering pain. Confirming that I was fine, I began sorting through the new knowledge that seemed to have embedded itself in my mind.


    From this knowledge, I understood the source of the pain I experienced earlier. It was caused by the awakening of the fire demon ability within me. Realizing I had inherited the power of the Fire Demon Ape filled me with ecstasy. Even at its lowest level, the fire control ability gave me an edge against the demonic beasts. With it, I could also forge weapons to aid in my combat endeavors.


    The warm sunlight streaming through the cave entrance interrupted my thoughts, gently falling on my face and giving me a fleeting sense of comfort in this perilous world. Steeling myself for the challenges of a new day, I turned my attention to the Fire Demon Ape I had defeated the day before. Its body hadn''t begun to rot despite being dead for an entire day. Determined to make use of it, I searched the area for a sharp stone.


    After finding one, I heated it using my fire ability until it was sharp enough to cut through the ape''s tough skin. Once satisfied, I began extracting its bones. The process was nauseating, but I pushed through. My resolve never wavered because I knew that if I had been the one to fall, the ape would have devoured me without hesitation. This world belonged to the strong, and I had no choice but to grow stronger.


    I removed all the ape''s bones, understanding their potential value. The bones of a Fire Demon Ape, infused with fire-element affinity, could grant explosive power when paired with fire-based abilities. After finishing, I also skinned the ape for its fur, which I fashioned into makeshift clothing since my original garments had been torn and burned during the fight. I dragged the ape''s remaining carcass deeper into the cave and sealed the entrance.


    After burying most of the body, I saved some of its fat to eat, storing it in leaves I had collected earlier. With basic necessities secured, I turned my focus to crafting weapons from the ape''s bones. Using its smaller bones, I made a hammer, while the larger bones were shaped into swords and spears. It took three days to complete the work as I was a novice in this field, but I quickly adapted. During this time, I sustained myself by cooking the ape''s meat with my fire ability.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    [Creation points +300]


    [Creation points +200] * 4


    After finishing the weapons, I assessed their quality and deemed them adequate for hunting mid-tier body-strengthening-level creatures. From this process, I accumulated a total of 1,250 creation points. Curious, I asked the system:


    "System, how many points are required to upgrade my cultivation to mid-body-strengthening level?"


    "1,200 points," the system replied mechanically.


    Seeing I had enough points, I excitedly gave the command:


    "System, upgrade my cultivation to mid-body-strengthening level."


    "1,200 points deducted."


    Immediately, I felt my body undergo a profound transformation as my fibers were refined and my strength increased. Clenching my fist, I could sense that I had become twice as strong as I was at the low-body-strengthening level. Elated, I punched the air with all my might, creating a sonic boom. The force caused the already weakened cave to start collapsing.


    Realizing the danger, I dashed to the entrance, kicked aside the rocks blocking the way, and escaped just as the cave crumbled entirely. Turning back for one last look at the place where I had faced a life-threatening ordeal, I felt a pang of sadness. However, I quickly brushed it aside and set off toward the forest, where even stronger enemies awaited.


    As I approached the forest, a familiar face halted me in my tracks.


    "Good, my disciple," my master''s voice echoed. Her tone carried a mix of warmth and pride, a rare tenderness that softened her usual strict demeanor. "You have taken your first step on the path of cultivation by confronting the ape despite the option to run. I am proud of your courage. Cultivation is for the brave; those with weak wills have no place in this world. You have shown true potential."


    Hearing these words filled me with pride and happiness. Yet, before I could bask in my master''s praise, she continued, her voice firm but tinged with a note of concern:


    "Don''t let my compliments inflate your ego. The forest ahead contains beasts at the body-strengthening, essence-gathering, and energy-transformation levels. When you reach the peak of the essence-gathering level, I will provide you with a cultivation technique to advance to the energy-transformation level."


    Then, she dropped a bombshell, her tone becoming serious and commanding:


    "Your second trial requires you to kill all the demonic beasts within this secret realm to earn your way out."


    My face paled as I absorbed the enormity of the task. Sensing my distress, my master''s expression softened, and a faint smile played on her lips.


    "Don''t worry," she said, her voice taking on a playful, almost mischievous tone as she winked at me. "I''ll give you a gift when you complete your task."


    With those parting words, my master vanished, leaving my mind blank and chaotic as I struggled to process the challenge that lay ahead.

 chapter 6: Into the Unknown

    Before I left, my master handed me an amulet¡ªa tool designed to monitor my cultivation progress. It would notify her the moment I reached the peak stage of the Essence Gathering Realm. Without hesitation, I placed it around my neck.


    Standing at the forest''s edge, I hesitated for a fleeting moment. This trial was meant to temper my resolve and fortify my will. Exhaling deeply, I stepped into the dense woods.


    The forest felt alive, every shadow concealing unseen dangers. I scouted the surrounding area, searching for a suitable place to establish a base. My mission was to eliminate every demon beast in this secret realm. It would take time, and I needed a safe haven. After hours of searching, I found a desolate clearing devoid of animal life¡ªideal for settling in.


    During my scouting, I encountered and slew several beasts of the low and mid Body Strengthening Realm. I checked their corpses for cores, but luck was not on my side.


    Sigh.


    Frustrated by my misfortune, I harvested their meat and stored it in my newly claimed home. Thus began my daily routine¡ªhunting, killing, and crafting traps from their remains. These creations earned me cultivation points, which I used to ascend through the Essence Gathering Realm. Within a month, I had slain creatures as strong as those in the mid Essence Gathering Realm.


    Watching my cultivation grow so rapidly filled me with hope. Perhaps, in two more months, I can clear this realm, I thought, exhilarated. The idea of escaping the monotony of endless battles was a beacon of relief. Yet, a strange part of me felt a longing for this life of endless combat, though I pushed the thought aside for the time being.


    Meanwhile, in a dark, ominous cave brimming with malevolent energy, three demon beasts convened in secret.


    The bull demon, radiating authority, spoke first:


    "Today, I have gathered you here because the time granted by the Lord is nearing its end. If we fail to complete the mission entrusted to us, the power He granted us in exchange for our souls will be reclaimed¡ªand we shall perish."


    His tone carried fear, and his reverence for the Lord was evident.


    The serpent demon hissed in response, its voice dripping with awe:


    "I understand. Rest assured, preparations are already underway to fulfill His will."


    The eight-eyed spider demon chimed in, its voice quivering:


    "Yes, I, too, have been preparing for the plan."


    The bull demon nodded, sensing the truth in their words.


    "Good. We shall execute the plan tomorrow," he declared.


    The others responded in unison:


    "Yes. Tomorrow, we will carry out the Lord''s plan."


    Unbeknownst to me, while I tirelessly hunted lesser beasts, four demon beasts of the Peak Energy Transformation Realm were plotting. If I had known, I would have been astonished; after all, only beasts of the Core Transformation Realm or higher could communicate intelligently.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    The next day, I awoke, ready for another day of hunting. After stretching, I stepped outside and ventured deeper into the forest. Suddenly, the air was shattered by three earth-shaking roars, each brimming with the majesty of apex predators.


    I froze, baffled by the sheer power behind those cries. Before I could process it, the ground began to quake. In the distance, a massive stampede of demon beasts charged toward the source of the roars. Tens of thousands of them.


    Terror seized me as I realized I was directly in their path. My instincts screamed at me to flee¡ªsurvival was impossible against such overwhelming odds. Yet, amidst the chaos, a fierce determination welled up within me. A voice inside whispered: Fight.


    For the first time in two lifetimes, I embraced the madness. I abandoned my weapons, knowing they would only hinder me, and charged forward with nothing but my body and will. Every step erased my thoughts of life and death, of peace and the world. There was only me and the beasts.


    The beasts, enraged by my audacity, surged toward me with even greater ferocity. A single cultivator dared to challenge their overwhelming numbers? To them, it was an insult.


    To me, it was my battle.


    The air grew thick with the scent of blood and the oppressive aura of the stampeding demon beasts. My heartbeat thundered in my ears, drowning out all other sounds as I met the charging horde head-on. The first beast¡ªa massive, horned creature with glowing crimson eyes¡ªlunged at me with terrifying speed. I sidestepped its attack, channeling my essence into my fist, and struck its skull with all my strength. The force of the blow shattered its head, and the beast collapsed in a heap.


    Before I could catch my breath, three more beasts descended upon me. My body moved instinctively, dodging claws, fangs, and tails. My hands, hardened by months of relentless training, tore through their hides. Blood spattered the ground, the metallic tang filling the air as more beasts fell.


    I lost count of the kills as I fought like a man possessed. Time seemed to blur. Day and night merged into an endless dance of survival. My body screamed in agony, muscles burning and wounds bleeding, yet I pressed on. Each strike, each kill, seemed to break something within me.


    At some point, I became aware of something strange¡ªmy essence, which had been steadily growing during my trial, surged with a ferocity I had never felt before. But the feeling of something breaking within me continued. Whatever it was, it felt both terrifying and freeing.


    Far away, the three apex demon beasts observed the carnage.


    The serpent demon''s forked tongue flickered as it hissed, "This one is no ordinary cultivator. His will is monstrous."


    The eight-eyed spider demon clicked its mandibles, its eight unblinking eyes fixed on the battlefield. "Indeed. But no matter how strong his will, he is still a mortal. He cannot withstand the combined strength of the horde."


    The bull demon''s massive form shifted slightly, its golden eyes narrowing. "Do not underestimate him. If we allow him to continue, he may threaten even us. We must intervene soon."


    The three demons exchanged glances before nodding in unison. The bull demon spoke with grim finality:


    "We execute the Lord''s plan now."


    Suddenly, the ground beneath me trembled violently, far stronger than before. I looked up to see three massive forms emerging from the shadows of the forest. The bull demon, towering and radiating raw power. The serpent demon, coiled and menacing, its emerald scales gleaming. And the eight-eyed spider demon, its grotesque form exuding malice.


    Their combined aura was suffocating. I staggered, my instincts screaming at me to run, but my feet remained planted. Something primal surged within me, stronger than fear, stronger than reason. I clenched my fists, ready to face the towering monstrosities.

 chapter 7 : Beyond the Ashes

    The ground trembled violently under the bull demon''s thunderous charge. Its massive hooves shattered the earth, sending shockwaves rippling across the battlefield. Lightning crackled in its glowing red eyes, mirroring the fury of a beast that knew no mercy.


    Around me, the serpent demon''s tail coiled tighter, cutting into my leg, its constricting force threatening to snap my bones. The eight-eyed spider demon lingered in the distance, its venom-dripping fangs clicking with anticipation, its shadow spreading like a predator preparing for the kill.


    I was surrounded.


    Despite the power I had gained through relentless battles, I felt utterly helpless. My heart pounded in my chest as I struggled against the serpent''s unrelenting grip. My strength, my cultivation, my will¡ªnone of it mattered. I was not strong enough.


    As the bull demon barreled toward me, time itself seemed to slow, mocking me as I stood helpless in its path.


    I closed my eyes.


    There was no hope left. I had fought and failed. I had pushed myself beyond my limits, but now, I was trapped by my own weakness. In that moment, I accepted my death, my fate. I welcomed the darkness, letting the crushing weight of despair take over. And yet, the pain never came.


    Then, something inside me broke.


    The Void Awakens.


    In that instant of surrender, a darkness erupted deep within me¡ªa power beyond comprehension, a vast void that consumed everything in its path.


    The serpent demon''s tail turned to dust, disintegrating before it could even release a cry. The bull demon froze mid-charge, its immense form cracking as the void swallowed it whole. The eight-eyed spider screeched in terror, its legs curling inward as it too was wiped from existence.


    In the blink of an eye, they were gone.


    And so was everything else.


    I stood alone in an endless black void, a space devoid of light, sound, or substance. But it wasn''t empty¡ªit hummed with a power that resonated deep within my very soul.


    The void wasn''t just destruction. It was balance¡ªcreation and annihilation, intertwined in a perfect harmony.


    For the first time, I understood. This power had always been within me, waiting to be awakened. It wasn''t something I had earned through cultivation or effort. It was a force tied to the very fabric of existence itself.


    And now, it was awake.


    The devastation was all-consuming. What had once been a thriving wilderness was now barren, lifeless. The trees were reduced to ash, rivers cracked and dry, the beasts of the realm wiped away by the force of the void I had unleashed.


    I stood frozen, the magnitude of what I had done slowly sinking in. I had killed them all. In an instant, I had destroyed everything. The devastation spread before me, a silent testament to my actions, and in the stillness, the weight of it all came crashing down.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    My heart sank as I looked around at the desolation I had caused. Why? Why had I done it? What had I hoped to achieve?


    I whispered to the void, my voice trembling, "What was the point? Was it worth it? Was all of this worth the price I''ve paid?"


    The silence that answered was deafening.


    Tears burned at the corners of my eyes, but I couldn''t shed them. I wouldn''t. Not anymore. I had spent so long chasing power, carving my name in blood, convincing myself it was all part of a noble cause. But now, standing amid the ruins I had created, I saw the truth.


    I had become a destroyer. A monster.


    The realization hit like a crushing weight.


    Every crack in the earth, every burned tree, every dried-up river¡ªit was all a reminder of what I had become. A force of destruction, blind to the cost of my hunger for power. For so long, I had convinced myself that I fought for survival, for strength. But now, in the stark quiet of this broken world, I saw the lie.


    I hadn''t sought strength to protect or to help. I had sought it for myself. To be more. To prove myself. And in the process, I had destroyed everything that stood in my path. Life had been nothing but a means to feed my insatiable desire for more.


    "Power is a fire that burns bright, but it leaves nothing but ashes in its wake," I thought, the bitter truth sinking in. I had believed I controlled it, but in the end, it had consumed me.


    There was no going back now. The void, my power¡ªit was too much to undo. If I held onto this power, I would continue to destroy, until nothing remained. I would eventually destroy myself, too.


    A deep ache settled within my chest. I was so far gone, I couldn''t even recognize the person I had been before. I had been consumed by it all¡ªthe desire, the destruction. The whispers of the person I had once been, a person who had sought power out of necessity, now seemed like distant echoes.


    I didn''t need this power anymore.


    I sat down amidst the ruins, trembling. Taking a steady breath, I reached deep within myself, seeking the void¡ªthe very thing that had defined me for so long. It fought against me, pulling me back, refusing to let go. But I wasn''t afraid anymore.


    With everything I had left, I tore myself away from it. Piece by piece, I unraveled the power I had unleashed. The pain was excruciating, as if the fibers of my soul were being ripped apart, but I kept going. The power clawed at me, strangling me, but I refused to relent.


    And then, finally, it was done.


    The void was gone.


    And for the first time in what felt like an eternity, I felt¡­ peace.


    The barren landscape stretched out before me, and though the sky was dull, the weight that had burdened me for so long lifted. The absence of the void left a strange emptiness, but this time, it wasn''t a void I feared. It was freedom.


    I had chased power, convinced it was the key to survival, that it was the only way to prove my worth. But now, as I stood amidst the ashes of what I had destroyed, I saw it clearly. Power, built on the suffering of others, was a lie.


    I had killed, I had taken life, and for what? To be stronger? To stand at the top?


    I had emptied the world. I had destroyed it. All for my own pride, my own hunger.


    But now, I saw the cost.


    I couldn''t undo what I had done. But I could start again.


    This time, I would seek no glory. I would seek no power. I would walk a different path¡ªthe path of understanding, of balance.


    I stood, unsteady on my feet. My body was fragile, but for the first time, I didn''t mind.


    I would walk this new journey, not for the power, but with purpose. For the sake of myself.


    Unbeknownst to me, the realm had been sealed.


    The power I had unleashed was far too dangerous to roam freely. Unknown forces¡ªperhaps even my master''s influence¡ªhad sealed the realm, locking away the void energy I had awakened. The echoes of that power were contained, unable to spill into the world beyond.


    I was completely unaware of the changes happening outside this place. The realm was locked away, a quiet prison for the forces I had unleashed. Meanwhile, the world beyond carried on¡ªconflicts brewing, new dangers arising¡ªthat I could never have imagined.


    My journey was far from over.


    ----


    Author''s Thoughts:


    I apologize for the delay in uploading chapters. I''ve been busy with exams, but from today onward, I''ll be uploading chapters daily. Thank you for your patience, and I appreciate your continued support!


    I''ll be updating daily at 15:00

 chapter 8 : The Weight of Choice

    Yi Lian stood in the trial ground, his senses disoriented as the world around him shifted and warped, then slowly settled. The weight of everything that had just transpired pressed down on him like an invisible burden. He had expected to face consequences for what he had unleashed, but instead, here he was¡ªback at the entrance. The world itself seemed to reject what he had become.


    His thoughts raced in chaotic circles, struggling to grasp his situation. He had lost control. He had become a force of destruction, erasing everything in his path without a second thought. He clenched his fists, but no words came to him. What could he say? How could he explain the mess he had made of everything?


    As if in response to his turmoil, a presence descended upon him. The air grew thick with tension, and the space around him trembled. Jing Xuan appeared, her golden eyes cold and unreadable, locking onto him with an intensity that made him feel both exposed and insignificant. She was as ethereal as ever, her robes fluttering in the stillness around them.


    "You have returned," she said, her voice heavy with something Yi Lian couldn¡¯t quite place¡ªcuriosity, perhaps, or something deeper.


    Yi Lian opened his mouth to speak, but no words came. He wanted to explain, to apologize, to beg for another chance¡ªbut nothing felt right. The truth was too simple, too harsh. He had crossed a line. He had gone too far.


    Jing Xuan''s eyes remained on him, unwavering. After a long pause, she finally spoke again. "I once promised you that I would give you a choice. Now, I ask you¡ªwhat do you seek, Yi Lian?"


    The weight of her question hit him hard. It was simple, yet it made his heart pound. What did he seek? Power? Peace? Redemption? His mind circled in endless confusion. But his recent actions loomed large in his thoughts. Is this what I truly want?


    He felt lost. There had been a time when the path forward seemed clear¡ªwhen survival had been the goal, when strength was the answer. But now? After all this¡­ what was he really looking for?


    He took a step back, the weight of her gaze making him feel smaller. "I¡ªI''m not sure," Yi Lian said quietly, the words sounding weak even to him. "I thought I knew what I wanted. But now... I don''t know anymore."


    Jing Xuan''s eyes softened, though only for a moment. She looked around, her gaze lingering on the ruined trial ground, the destruction he had caused. "The task was simple," she said, her tone neutral. "To survive, to eliminate the demonic beasts. Yet, you went beyond that. You destroyed them all."


    Her words weren¡¯t harsh. They weren¡¯t a scolding. But they felt like a blade cutting deep into him. I didn¡¯t just kill. I... I reveled in it, he thought bitterly. What does that make me?


    "It is one thing to kill for survival," she continued, her voice calm but firm. "But when you begin to enjoy the process, when you lose yourself in it, you step onto a path of no return."


    Yi Lian swallowed hard, the weight of her words sinking in deeper. He had known this already, but hearing it spoken aloud by her made it feel real. Made it impossible to ignore. The fear that he had crossed a point of no return settled deep in his chest.


    "And yet," Jing Xuan''s expression softened, ever so slightly, "I see that you have come to understand this. That is why I will let you go¡ªto the mortal realm."Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    Yi Lian¡¯s breath caught in his throat. "The mortal realm?" he repeated, the words tasting foreign in his mouth.


    Jing Xuan nodded, her golden gaze steady. "For twenty years, you will walk among mortals. Seek your own way. If, by the end of those years, you have not chosen a path, then you will follow the one I set for you."


    The weight of her words settled over him, not just as a punishment, but as a challenge. The stakes were high. He could feel the pressure bearing down on him. What will I find in the mortal realm? The question echoed in his mind, and yet he still couldn''t answer it. Am I running from something, or seeking something?


    She raised her hand, and an amulet appeared in her palm. It glowed faintly with energy. "Take this," she said.


    Yi Lian hesitated before taking the amulet. The moment his fingers touched it, he felt a surge of energy. It was smooth, almost weightless, yet it hummed with an ancient power.


    "This amulet has three functions," Jing Xuan explained. "First, it will shield you from cultivators¡¯ senses when activated. Second, it will protect you in battle, forming a barrier around you. And third, if you do not return on your own after twenty years, it will teleport you back to me. If you are near death, it will do the same."


    Yi Lian gripped the amulet tighter. "Even the mortal realm is not safe," she added. "Demonic beasts still roam, and demonic cultivators will not hesitate to kill mortals¡ªfor sport or for sustenance. You must be prepared."


    He nodded, the gravity of her words sinking in. The mortal realm was dangerous, and he would have to be stronger than ever before.


    A heavy silence stretched between them, the weight of everything unsaid filling the air. Yi Lian looked down at the amulet in his hand. It was a symbol of the responsibility he now carried¡ªa symbol of the uncertain journey ahead.


    "I accept," he said finally, his voice steady, the resolve clear in his words.


    Jing Xuan gave a small nod. "Then go. The world awaits."


    For a long moment, she said nothing. Then, without turning, she flicked her sleeve, and a spatial tear formed before them, a gateway shimmering with ethereal light.


    "Go, then. See what the world has to offer. But remember¡ª" she finally faced him, her golden eyes piercing through him, "understanding alone will not save you."


    Yi Lian stood still, the weight of her words sinking into him. The idea of walking away from the comfort of certainty, to embrace a path so uncertain, was both terrifying and liberating. She didn¡¯t wait for him to respond, and as he stepped through the rift, the last thing he saw was her standing there, unmoving, the wind tugging at her robes.


    The shift between realms was jarring, his senses reeling as he emerged into the unknown. The mortal realm stretched before him, vast and unfamiliar. The air smelled of damp earth and woodsmoke, distant voices carrying over the breeze. He had truly begun anew.


    His feet touched solid ground, yet something within him wavered. This was not just another trial; this was life unshackled from everything he once knew. No sect, no power, no safety net. He was just another man, indistinguishable from the countless others who struggled beneath the heavens.


    Yi Lian adjusted his robes, their once pristine fabric now dull and worn from the remnants of his past choices. A path stretched ahead, winding through a dense forest that led to the unknown. He took his first step forward, the weight of his decision settling in.


    For the first time, he felt the quiet hum of the world around him, a vastness that beckoned him. He wasn¡¯t here to seek power, fame, or glory¡ªthose things had already proved hollow. What he sought was beyond the norm, beyond the usual definitions of strength and survival. He was after something intangible, a deeper understanding of the world and himself, something that transcended the constant battle for control. The very essence of what it meant to be alive, to simply exist in harmony with the world.


    Back in the sect, Jing Xuan stood alone, watching the space where he had vanished. Her fingers twitched at her side, a small vial of medicinal essence flickering into existence for a heartbeat before she dismissed it with a sigh.


    "Foolish child," she murmured, her voice barely audible against the wind. "If you break, I won¡¯t be there to mend you."


    Yet, she lingered, her gaze fixed on the empty air, as if searching for something unseen. Finally, with a deep breath, she turned away. The world was vast, and the path ahead uncertain. But even as she let him go, a part of her continued to watch over him.

 chapter 9 : The Wandering Traveler

    Yi Lian moved through the dense forest, his steps steady and unhurried. The soft crunch of fallen leaves beneath his feet blended with the distant chirping of birds and the rustling of unseen creatures. He had been walking for hours, his path aimless, allowing the unfamiliar land to reveal itself to him. The mortal realm was unlike the world he had known¡ªthere were no towering sects, no cultivators soaring through the skies. Here, life was simpler, unburdened by the relentless pursuit of power. He found solace in its untouched beauty.


    Yet, despite the tranquility, a hollow feeling remained within him. He had chosen this path, but what lay ahead was still uncertain. He had stripped himself of what defined a cultivator¡ªwhat did that leave him with? Was he now merely a wanderer, drifting wherever the wind carried him? These thoughts accompanied him as he walked, lingering unanswered, but they did not weigh him down.


    A distant voice carried on the wind, breaking the serene silence. It was faint at first, just a whisper amid the rustling leaves, but as he focused, he discerned the laughter of children, the chatter of women, and the rhythmic clatter of tools against wood and stone. A village.


    His gaze sharpened as he took in his surroundings. He had been wandering without a destination, merely acquainting himself with this new reality. But a village could provide insight into the lives of mortals¡ªhow they lived, how they struggled, and perhaps, how they thrived without the crutch of cultivation.


    Following the sounds, he soon reached the village''s outskirts. A vast tree stood at its entrance, its wide canopy offering shade to a group of elderly men engaged in quiet conversation. Further in, children ran along dirt paths, their laughter ringing in the air. Women leaned over balconies, exchanging stories, while men dressed in simple work clothes headed toward the fields or workshops. It was a scene of ordinary life, untouched by the ambitions of sects or the battles of the strong.


    But as Yi Lian stepped forward, the atmosphere changed. The villagers, once lively and carefree, stilled at his presence. The children, sensing the tension but not understanding why, scampered back to their mothers. The elderly men fell silent, their gazes wary. The men and women whispered among themselves, their expressions a mixture of fear and unease.


    Yi Lian understood their reaction immediately. Though his robes were simple and unassuming to a cultivator¡¯s eye, to these villagers, they marked him as an outsider¡ªperhaps a noble, perhaps a wandering cultivator. And in their eyes, neither brought anything good.


    He did not blame them. The world was not kind to those without power, and mortals had long been at the mercy of those above them. To a cultivator, a mortal village was insignificant, its people mere background to their grand paths. Some would exploit them, others would ignore them, and the worst would treat them as pawns in their own struggles.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    An elderly man stepped forward, his steps hesitant but firm. There was fear in his eyes, but he masked it well, standing as the village¡¯s representative.


    "May I ask, young nobleman," the elder said, his voice measured despite the tension in his stance, "what brings you to our humble village?"


    Yi Lian observed him carefully. There was weight in the man¡¯s voice¡ªnot just fear, but something deeper, something born of experience. This village had suffered before. He did not know their story yet, but he could see it in their wary eyes. To them, he was a possible storm, a force beyond their control.


    His expression softened, and when he spoke, his voice carried a gentle warmth¡ªa deliberate contrast to their fears. "I am merely a traveler," he said calmly. "I go where the roads take me, seeking to understand the world. I happened upon your village and thought to stay for a while before continuing my journey."


    The elder¡¯s shoulders eased slightly, and a silent wave of relief passed through the villagers. A traveler. Not a noble, not a cultivator demanding offerings or fealty¡ªjust a passing wanderer. That, at least, they could accept.


    "I see," the elder nodded, his voice more relaxed now. "If that is the case, then you are welcome to stay for as long as you need. We do not have much, but our village is peaceful. We only ask that you bring no trouble upon us."


    Yi Lian inclined his head. "I understand. I will bring no harm to your people."


    The elder studied him for a moment longer before nodding. "Then, I shall have someone arrange a place for you."


    As the tension in the village slowly dissolved, Yi Lian allowed his gaze to sweep over the people once more. This place carried a history, one that had made them wary of outsiders. And while he did not pry today, he would come to understand it in time.


    "Forgive me for troubling you," the elder said, his tone respectful.


    "There is no trouble," Yi Lian replied. "I am grateful for your kindness."


    Soon, he was led to a small wooden house on the village¡¯s edge. It was modest, just enough for a single person to live in comfortably. Yi Lian examined it for a long moment, taking in the craftsmanship, the simplicity of its design. It was unlike any place he had stayed before.


    Seeing his prolonged gaze, the elder hesitated before speaking. "I apologize, sir. This is the only house we have available at the moment. If you find it unsatisfactory, you may stay in my home instead."


    Yi Lian shook his head, a small smile touching his lips. "I am not dissatisfied. I was merely observing. This is more than enough."


    The elder exhaled, relief washing over his features. "I see. Then, I will leave you to rest." He offered a polite bow before turning to leave.


    Yi Lian stepped inside the house, the wooden floor creaking faintly beneath his feet. He sat on the bed, exhaustion settling over him. Hours of walking without food or rest had drained him, and now, for the first time in a long while, he allowed himself to relax.


    For now, he had taken his first step into this world¡ªnot as a cultivator, not as a warrior, but as a man seeking something beyond strength. And in doing so, he had begun a new path¡ªone unseen by those who clung to power alone.


    That was his last thought before sleep claimed him.


    <hr>

 Chapter 10 : Through the Eyes of the Simple

    The first thing Yi Lian felt upon waking was hunger¡ªan unbearable emptiness gnawing at his stomach. His body, no longer accustomed to the comforts of a sect, demanded food. But there was one problem¡ªhe had no money.


    Sighing, he sat up and stretched. He had spent so long contemplating grand ideals and the nature of existence that he had overlooked something as simple as sustenance. For the first time in this new life, he faced a problem that no cultivation technique or mystical power could solve.


    Determined to find a solution, he stepped outside.


    The morning sun bathed the village in a golden glow, its warmth settling over the land like a comforting embrace. The air carried the crisp scent of damp earth and freshly baked bread, mingling with the subtle aroma of burning wood from cooking fires. It was a scene untouched by the ambitions of cultivators, a world that thrived in its own quiet way.


    As Yi Lian stepped out, a few villagers noticed him and immediately approached with kind smiles.


    "Good morning, traveler! Did you sleep well?" an elderly man with a weathered face and kind eyes asked. His voice was warm, yet carried the weight of years spent working under the harsh sun.


    Yi Lian nodded, but before he could respond, a group of children rushed forward, their eyes gleaming with curiosity.


    "Where did you come from?"


    "Have you fought any monsters?"


    "Tell us about your journey!"


    Their voices overlapped in excitement, their energy boundless despite the early hour. Yi Lian hesitated. He wasn''t used to this.


    Enthusiasm. Warmth. Unfiltered joy.


    It felt foreign. Even in his past life, people were always too busy with their own struggles to greet a stranger so openly. And when they did, it was usually out of self-interest. But these people¡ªthey had no reason to treat him this kindly. He had arrived only yesterday, yet they welcomed him as if he were one of their own.


    For a moment, doubt crept into his mind¡ªwas there something they wanted from him? But as he looked at the eager faces of the children and the genuine hospitality in the villagers'' eyes, he found no trace of deceit.


    Still, if he remained silent any longer, they might mistake it for displeasure. Pushing aside his uncertainty, he decided to answer their questions.


    At first, his words were careful, measured. But as he spoke, something unexpected happened¡ªhe started to enjoy their company.


    "I''ve just begun my journey," he told them. "Before this, I lived with my master on a secluded mountain peak."


    The children gasped in excitement. "A mountain peak?! What was it like?"This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Yi Lian described the breathtaking scenery¡ªthe endless sky, the floating clouds, the way the world seemed so distant from above. He spoke of how the wind whispered through the trees, carrying the scent of blooming lotuses. The children hung on every word, their imaginations painting vivid pictures.


    Then, he told them about the mythical creatures from his past life''s stories¡ªGaruda, divine serpents, dragons, and phoenixes.


    "The Garuda is a mighty bird, its wings large enough to block out the sun," Yi Lian said, his voice steady yet captivating. "And the dragons? They could summon storms with a single roar."


    The children''s eyes widened in awe, but nearby, a few older villagers stiffened, their faces paling.


    "Such beasts exist?" one of them whispered in fear.


    Realizing his words had unsettled them, Yi Lian quickly reassured them. "They no longer exist," he said. "They are only myths now."


    The children groaned in disappointment, but before they could protest, an unmistakable growl rumbled from Yi Lian''s stomach.


    Silence.


    Then¡ªlaughter.


    The villagers chuckled, the children giggled, and Yi Lian felt his face heat up with embarrassment. He had been so engrossed in their conversation that he had completely forgotten why he had stepped outside in the first place.


    One of the villagers, a middle-aged man with strong arms and a gentle smile, stepped forward with a grin. "Traveler, if you haven''t eaten yet, come to my house. My wife just finished cooking, and we have more than enough food to share."


    Yi Lian hesitated. In the cultivation world, nothing came without a price. Accepting favors meant owing someone something in return. But here¡­ was it really that simple?


    Seeing the genuine kindness in the man''s eyes, Yi Lian nodded. "I would be grateful."


    The man''s home was modest, built from sturdy wood with a thatched roof. Inside, the scent of fresh rice and roasted meat filled the air. The man''s wife, a kind-faced woman with soft features, greeted him warmly.


    "Sit, sit," she said, gesturing toward a simple wooden table. "You''re a guest, so eat as much as you like!"


    Plates of steaming rice, fresh vegetables, and slow-cooked meat were set before him. The food was simple, but the warmth in their gestures made it feel richer than the finest meals he had ever eaten.


    As Yi Lian ate, he listened to their stories¡ªhow the man worked in the fields, how his wife managed the household, how their children played without worry. Their lives were ordinary, yet full of meaning.


    "You know," the man said, watching Yi Lian with a thoughtful expression, "you remind me of someone who passed through here years ago. A wandering scholar who left behind wisdom instead of debts. Are you a scholar too?"


    Yi Lian paused, considering the question. He wasn''t a scholar, nor a warrior, nor a common man. He was¡­ searching.


    "I''m just someone trying to understand the world," he finally said.


    The man nodded as if he understood, even though Yi Lian himself wasn''t sure if he did.


    After the meal, Yi Lian thanked them and stepped outside, walking through the village with a newfound curiosity. He had seen the mortal realm from a distance, but never had he truly lived in it.


    He observed how the villagers worked together¡ªfarmers tending to fields, blacksmiths forging tools, merchants bartering over fresh produce. Children ran through the streets, their laughter a stark contrast to the cold silence of the cultivation world.


    These people had no cultivation, no mystical powers, yet they carried a joy, a liveliness that he had never seen before. What made them so full of life?


    He watched as a young boy fell while chasing a chicken, only to laugh and get up again. A mother scolded her son for stealing fruit from a stall, but in the next moment, ruffled his hair with a smile. An old woman sat under a tree, humming a tune as she mended clothes.


    They had no ambitions for power, no desire to dominate others. Yet, in their simplicity, they had something cultivators lacked¡ªcontentment.


    For the first time, Yi Lian wondered¡­ Had he spent his life chasing something that didn''t matter?


    He walked aimlessly, lost in thought, as the morning stretched into afternoon. For now, he was just a traveler, learning the world not through power, but through understanding.


    And perhaps, that was the first step to something greater.

 chapter 11 : The Weight of the First Step

    The morning sun painted the village in hues of amber and gold as Yi Lian stepped out of his small wooden house. The crisp air carried the scent of damp soil and freshly baked bread, mingling with the smokiness of cooking fires.


    The village was already alive¡ªthe rhythmic sounds of hoes striking the earth, hammers ringing against metal, merchants calling out their wares. Here, survival wasn''t about power or cultivation but endurance, toil, and creation.


    Yi Lian inhaled deeply, grounding himself in this unfamiliar yet oddly comforting world.


    Yesterday, he had relied on the kindness of strangers. Today, he would earn his place.


    He couldn''t just take.


    He had to work.


    His gaze swept across the village. In the sect, everything had been provided¡ªrobes, weapons, meals, even purpose. But if he truly wanted to understand this life, he had to walk its path himself.


    A fleeting thought crossed his mind. Work¡­ something I have never done before.


    Another voice in his mind whispered, If you wish to understand, you must walk the path yourself.


    With that, he stepped forward.


    The fields stretched endlessly, a sea of green swaying under the gentle breeze. The scent of freshly tilled soil filled the air as Yi Lian approached an elderly man tending to a row of crops. His tanned skin bore the marks of years spent under the sun, his hands rough yet steady as they carefully planted seeds.


    The farmer glanced up, his deep-set eyes filled with quiet wisdom. He let out a dry chuckle.


    "You stand like a man with soft hands," he mused. "Never worked the land before, have you?"


    Yi Lian shook his head. "No. But I want to learn."


    The farmer studied him for a long moment before handing him a hoe. "Then dig. The earth doesn''t judge strength, only patience."


    At first, the work seemed simple¡ªstrike the ground, loosen the soil. But as the hours stretched on, his back ached, his hands blistered, and his arms felt heavier with each swing. The once-light tool now seemed as weighty as a boulder in his grip.


    Every strike against the earth became a battle against himself.


    Yet, as sweat dripped from his brow, a sense of purpose took root. Unlike cultivation, where progress was unseen, here, every effort had a result. Furrows stretched across the field, seeds buried beneath the soil, promising future life.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    As they rested under the shade of a tree, Yi Lian wiped the sweat from his brow. "Is this how you''ve lived your life?"


    The farmer chuckled, a deep, knowing laugh. "Boy, we don''t just work the land. We nurture it. The seed you plant today becomes the meal you eat tomorrow. Everything takes time."


    Yi Lian nodded, the words settling deep in his heart.


    Strength wasn''t just about fighting. It was about creating, sustaining.


    The forge roared with heat, flames licking the air, the scent of molten metal thick and sharp. The hammer struck the anvil with a deafening clang, shaping raw iron into something more.


    Yi Lian hesitated at the entrance.


    The blacksmith, a burly man with thick arms and a face set in a permanent scowl, barely spared him a glance.


    "If you''re here to waste time, get lost."


    Yi Lian straightened. "I want to learn."


    The blacksmith snorted. "Hah! You? Look at those hands¡ªnever held a hammer in your life. This ain''t a scholar''s work. It''s sweat, burns, and broken fingers."


    Yi Lian didn''t flinch. "Then let me break a few."


    The blacksmith stared at him for a long moment before thrusting a pair of tongs at him. "Fine. Hold this."


    The first hour was pure agony. The hammer was heavier than he expected, the heat suffocating. His strikes were weak, uneven, and each time the blacksmith growled in frustration.


    "Too soft!" the man barked. "You''re not writing poetry¡ªhit it like you mean it!"


    Yi Lian gritted his teeth and swung the hammer again. The clang rang through the air, and for the first time, the blacksmith gave a small nod.


    By nightfall, his arms trembled, his hands blistered, but when he looked at the misshapen nail he had forged, a strange sense of pride settled in his chest.


    The blacksmith grunted. "You''ve got spirit, I''ll give you that. Come back tomorrow."


    Yi Lian smiled.


    Hard work. Effort. It was new, but it felt¡­ real.


    The lake stretched endlessly, reflecting the sky like a polished mirror. A lone fisherman sat at the shore, rod in hand, eyes half-closed as if in meditation.


    Yi Lian approached cautiously. "Why do you just sit there?"


    The fisherman chuckled. "Fishing is patience, boy. You cannot rush the fish."


    Curious, Yi Lian sat beside him, watching the line. "How do you know when to pull?"


    The fisherman smiled. "You don''t. You feel it."


    Hours passed in silence. At first, the stillness was unbearable. No movement, no action¡ªjust waiting.


    But slowly, Yi Lian began to listen.


    The gentle ripple of water. The whisper of the wind. The subtle tension on the line.


    Then¡ªa pull.


    Yi Lian''s hands moved instinctively, reeling the fish in. It flailed, silver scales catching the light. The fisherman laughed. "See? You learned."


    Holding the fish in his hands, Yi Lian realized something.


    Cultivation had always been about force, about taking.


    But here, patience yielded rewards.


    By now, Yi Lian had become a familiar presence in the village. The children, ever curious, often followed him, bombarding him with questions.


    "Why do you work so much?"


    "Weren''t you a cultivator? Aren''t they supposed to be powerful?"


    Yi Lian knelt beside them, meeting their wide eyes. "Power is more than just strength. Do you see the blacksmith? The farmer? The fisherman? They are powerful in their own way."


    One child frowned. "But they don''t fight."


    Yi Lian smiled. "Not all battles are fought with fists."


    The children seemed to ponder this, and for the first time, Yi Lian saw a reflection of himself in their eyes.


    Days turned into weeks. Yi Lian worked, laughed, struggled.


    He had no cultivation, no techniques, yet each experience shaped him in ways no battle ever could.


    The farmer taught him patience.


    The blacksmith, resilience.


    The fisherman, stillness.


    The children, curiosity.


    He wasn''t just surviving.


    He was living.

 chapter 12 : Beneath the Surface

    The village was quieter than usual that evening. Yi Lian sat outside, his gaze fixed on the setting sun, its soft glow dimming behind distant hills. The air felt heavier, thick with something unspoken, something the villagers couldn''t see, but Yi Lian felt deep in his chest. It unsettled him, a quiet weight pressing down on his thoughts. The peace that had once settled over the village seemed to be crumbling, replaced by a creeping unease that slipped through the cracks of his mind.


    Since his arrival, Yi Lian had sensed that something was off. It had started with the villagers. At first, they had been warm and welcoming, but as days passed, he noticed subtle changes. The energy that had once thrummed with life in the air now seemed to wane, fading like a fire burning out. The land, once full of vibrant vitality, seemed to lose its spirit, as if something was draining it slowly.


    Yi Lian had convinced himself it was exhaustion at first. The villagers worked tirelessly, and he had assumed fatigue could easily cloud the health of the people. But no¡ªthis was different. What had begun as simple tiredness had quickly turned into something far more profound. The villagers'' health didn''t just worsen¡ªit seemed to wither from the inside out, as if their very essence was being sapped by an invisible force.


    He had tried to ask them about it. At first, they''d reassured him with vague words¡ª"It''s just a little tiredness," or "It''ll pass soon, don''t worry." But Yi Lian could see it in their eyes, the dullness, the fear they refused to speak. They knew something wasn''t right, but they were too afraid¡ªor too unaware¡ªto confront it.


    Days turned to weeks, and the symptoms grew worse. The villagers'' cheeks grew pale, their steps slow and hesitant. The children, once brimming with energy, now huddled silently in their homes, their faces etched with weariness. It wasn''t just their bodies that were changing¡ªit was their very spirits, their vitality. It was as though they were slowly becoming hollow, their identities slipping away like sand through open fingers.


    Yi Lian''s heart grew heavier with each passing day. He watched them, observed their movements becoming more mechanical, their words more disjointed. Their smiles had vanished, leaving behind only tired, lifeless expressions. There was something wrong with them¡ªsomething he couldn''t explain, but could feel in every uneasy breath he took.


    Late one evening, as Yi Lian walked through the village, his eyes caught sight of something that froze him in his tracks. An old woman, once so lively and friendly, stood motionless in the middle of the street, her gaze fixed on the sky. Her hands hung stiff at her sides, her eyes wide but vacant. She was staring into nothingness, her body unmoving, her spirit seemingly absent. Yi Lian called out to her, but she didn''t react, didn''t even blink.


    This wasn''t illness. This wasn''t fatigue or sickness. This was something else¡ªsomething far darker.


    That night, Yi Lian tossed and turned in bed, strange, fragmented dreams disturbing his rest. His mind was filled with flashes of distant places, faces he couldn''t place, and a sensation that clung to him like a forgotten memory. At first, he had dismissed them as remnants of the past lives of the body he inhabited, but the vividness¡ªthe raw emotion they carried¡ªdisturbed him. There was something more to these dreams, something real.


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    The next morning, Yi Lian observed the villagers with a keener eye. Their health had deteriorated further, their movements more sluggish and awkward. When they spoke, it was as if they had no connection to the words they were saying¡ªempty, hollow voices. The very fabric of their personalities seemed to be disintegrating, piece by piece. Their memories were slipping away, their awareness faltering. And yet, when he asked them about it, they responded in the same monotonous tones: "We''re fine. Nothing''s wrong." But Yi Lian knew better. He could feel the truth just beyond their words.


    Determined to understand what was happening, Yi Lian spent days scouring the village, searching for any clue that might explain the villagers'' condition. He checked the wells, the food supplies, the air itself¡ªbut nothing stood out. Everything appeared ordinary. And yet, the people were dying¡ªslowly, relentlessly. It didn''t make sense.


    By the end of the month, Yi Lian had seen enough to realize the full scope of what was occurring. One by one, the villagers fell¡ªno longer the vibrant people they once were. Their skin became pale and brittle, their bodies growing unnaturally thin. They moved, but their movements were jerky, disjointed¡ªas if their bodies were nothing more than puppets, strings pulled by some unseen hand. What chilled Yi Lian most was that despite their deteriorating condition, they didn''t stop. They continued working, talking, walking through the motions of life, but their eyes¡ªempty. Their voices¡ªhollow. Their spirits, gone.


    Yi Lian''s pulse quickened as he walked among them, his eyes scanning the lifeless figures. This couldn''t be happening. Dead bodies don''t walk, don''t work, don''t continue to function in such a twisted way.


    His mind raced with questions, each one more desperate than the last. What was going on? How could this be? How could they still be alive, in this way?


    The unease that had clawed at him from the very beginning surged again, but this time, he refused to ignore it. He had to find the source of this affliction. He couldn''t allow it to continue. Not when there was a chance to stop it.


    His search led him through every house, hoping to uncover some trace of what might have caused the villagers to wither away so completely. But when he reached the last house, he found nothing. No poison. No curse. No sign of any outside influence. Only silence, and the hollow echo of the village.


    Then he found the well.


    Yi Lian had always known the well was important¡ªthe village''s primary source of water¡ªbut he had never thought much about it. Until now. As he peered down into its depths, a strange pull in his chest made his breath catch. The energy rising from the well felt familiar¡ªtoo familiar. A quiet, unnerving recognition settled in his mind. This was no ordinary well. The force emanating from it was unlike anything he''d ever encountered. It was faint, barely perceptible, but it was there. And it felt wrong.


    He leaned closer, his heart pounding, the energy surrounding him like an old, forgotten presence. It felt like the Void¡ªan energy that should not exist in this world. It was impossible. How could it be here?


    Staggering back, Yi Lian''s heart raced in his chest. His thoughts whirled. He couldn''t deny it anymore¡ªthe well, the villagers, the village itself¡ªit was all connected.


    He had to find answers. And he had to find them now.

 chapter 13 : Fractured Truths

    Yi Lian''s breath caught as he reached into the depths of his mind, instinctively calling upon the system that had always been there¡ªhis constant companion. He had faced many challenges before, but this eerie affliction draining the villagers was beyond his understanding. Yet, he believed that with his Appraisal, he could uncover the truth.


    He closed his eyes, centering his thoughts, willing the familiar power to manifest. Appraisal.


    A moment passed, but nothing happened.


    He tried again, desperation creeping into his voice. Appraisal!


    The usual response¡ªthe flow of information, the cold, detached details¡ªnever came. Instead, there was a sharp, jarring sensation, like the very fabric of the world around him was tearing apart. It felt as if the foundation of his power was being unraveled. His heart thudded painfully in his chest as a sharp pain shot through his mind, blurring his vision.


    It¡­ it didn''t work.


    He opened his eyes, his mind reeling with confusion and frustration. He had always been able to rely on his system. It had been his tool, his strength, his only constant in this strange world. But now, even though the system was still there, it wasn''t functioning. He was breaking apart, still unhealed¡ªand the system couldn''t work in his fractured state.


    Yi Lian gritted his teeth, trying to push past the panic rising in his throat. He focused again, attempting to will the system to function, to grant him the knowledge he so desperately needed to save the villagers.


    The realization hit him like a physical blow: he was no longer a cultivator.


    He was a mortal¡ªstripped of everything that had once been his strength. His power, his potential, was gone.


    Frustration surged through him. His fingers clenched into fists as he stared at the lifeless, pale villagers around him. They were still going through the motions of life¡ªwalking, talking, eating¡ªyet their spirits were empty. They were fading before his eyes, their vitality sucked away, leaving only withered shells. And he could do nothing. Nothing.


    The helplessness gnawed at him, the weight of his impotence pressing down on him like a physical force. His eyes darted from one hollow, vacant face to the next, his heart heavy with despair. He wanted to help, to do something, anything, to stop this tragedy. But he had no power. No means to intervene.


    He looked up, his gaze traveling over the village, searching for anything¡ªany clue, any sign of hope. His feet carried him through the empty streets, through the silent homes, but everything felt lifeless, the air thick with an oppressive stillness. The village was dying, slowly but surely, and he was powerless to stop it.


    With a deep sigh, Yi Lian began to search the surrounding area. He ventured deep into the forests that bordered the village, hoping to find some trace of what had caused this affliction. He scoured every corner, every path, every hidden crevice in the woods. But no matter where he searched, there was nothing. The forest, dense and ancient, offered no answers. It was as if the land itself had swallowed any hint of the truth, leaving him with only silence.


    His frustration boiled over, the inner conflict threatening to consume him. He was just a man. A powerless mortal. All his past strength, all the power he had once wielded¡ªgone. And in its place, he was left with a deep, gnawing sense of inadequacy.


    He stopped at the edge of the forest, the weight of the world settling on his shoulders. The villagers'' skeletal forms haunted his mind, their faces burned into his memory.


    It was too much. Too overwhelming. He wasn''t strong enough to stop this, to save them.


    A full month passed, and Yi Lian had resigned himself to an uneasy waiting game. The village, which had once felt like a desolate tomb, suddenly stirred to life once again.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Yi Lian walked down the streets, his eyes darting from one house to the next. It was as if the villagers were reborn, no longer skeletal figures but full of life and energy, just as they had been before. A strange sense of relief washed over him. At least they were alive again, he thought. But something felt off. A knot twisted in his stomach, and his instincts screamed that something was wrong.


    He approached the first villager he saw, a middle-aged woman, and asked, "How are you feeling? Do you remember what happened? You were¡­ deteriorating, becoming like a skeleton. Do you recall that?"


    The woman looked at him blankly, her brow furrowed. "What are you talking about? We''re fine. Life is life, as it is."


    Yi Lian''s heart sank. He couldn''t just leave it there. He pressed on, urgency creeping into his voice. "No, no! You were dying! You were all dying, and now you''re back alive! How do you explain that?"


    The villagers, now gathering around, turned toward him with bewildered expressions. Some of them chuckled, while others merely shook their heads, their faces a mask of confusion. The woman smiled kindly but dismissively. "You should rest, my boy. Maybe you''re just tired from the long days. Nothing''s wrong here."


    Yi Lian''s frustration boiled over, his voice rising. "You were dying! You were all dying, and now you''re back alive! What''s going on here?"


    Some villagers laughed louder, others murmured amongst themselves, but no one seemed to take him seriously. One man clapped him on the back and said, "You''ve been working too hard, lad. The village is just fine."


    The words echoed in Yi Lian''s mind, but they only served to deepen his unease. He turned to the elderly farmer, hoping for clarity, but the old man simply stared at him, the disbelief written clearly across his face.


    "Why are you shouting?" the farmer asked, his tone more confused than angry. "What are you talking about, boy?"


    Yi Lian''s anger surged. I''m not imagining this, he thought. I saw it happen. They were dying. Why can''t they see it?


    He clenched his fists, his voice trembling with intensity. "I''m not crazy! You were dying, all of you! You need to remember!"


    Some villagers exchanged uncomfortable glances, the atmosphere turning thick with unease. A younger woman stepped forward, her voice tinged with nervousness. "Maybe¡­ maybe it''s best you take some time to rest. You''re not looking well."


    Yi Lian''s heart raced. This wasn''t right. The villagers couldn''t be this blind. Then, one voice cut through the haze of his frustration.


    "If you''re so sure about what you saw, show us the evidence. Prove it," the voice challenged, cold and sharp.


    Yi Lian froze. Evidence? What could he possibly show them? There were no broken bones, no skeletal remains¡ªno sign of the horrors he had witnessed. It was as if the cycle had been erased, wiped clean as if it had never happened.


    He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came. The villagers continued on, their disinterest growing. Slowly, they began to disperse, muttering amongst themselves.


    "Take some time to rest," someone suggested, their tone patronizing. "Maybe you''re hallucinating. Get some sleep, lad. You''ll feel better."


    Yi Lian''s hands tightened into fists, his mind spinning. He had seen it. He knew what happened. But the villagers¡­ they didn''t remember. They couldn''t see the truth, and it left him feeling more alone than ever.


    A month passed, and the cycle began again.


    Yi Lian didn''t panic this time. His heart remained heavy, though. He knew what would happen, but there was no escape. He returned to the first house where the deterioration had begun.


    Yi Lian stepped into the house, his pace deliberate, each footfall slow and steady. The room inside was dim, the light from the small window casting long shadows across the floor. His eyes immediately fell on a frail woman lying on the bed, her face flushed with fever. Her children hovered anxiously around her, their expressions shifting from concern to surprise as they noticed his presence.


    "Who are you? What do you want?" one of the children asked, their voice trembling with uncertainty.


    Yi Lian remained calm, his gaze unwavering. "I came to see what caused your mother''s illness. There''s something more to it than just sickness."


    The children exchanged uneasy glances. "What do you mean? She''s just sick... nothing more," the eldest child replied, stepping protectively in front of Yi Lian.


    "I understand your concern," Yi Lian said, his tone firm but kind. "But I need to speak to your mother. It could be the key to understanding what''s happening to everyone in the village."


    The children hesitated before reluctantly stepping aside, allowing him to approach the sick woman. Kneeling beside her, Yi Lian placed a hand on her forehead, feeling the heat radiating from her fevered skin. He looked at her with quiet sympathy.


    "How are you feeling?" Yi Lian asked, his voice low and soothing.


    The woman blinked, exhaustion clouding her eyes. "I''ve been... unwell for days. Fever, chills... hard to explain," she mumbled weakly.


    Yi Lian nodded, his expression growing more serious. He leaned in closer, whispering gently, "Do you remember when this illness started? Was there anything unusual before it began?"


    The woman''s eyes fluttered closed, her breath shallow. "I don''t... remember much. I¡­ I just¡­" Her words trailed off as another shiver wracked her body, her frailty becoming more evident by the moment.

 chapter 14 : The Whispering Forest

    The evening air hung heavy with a quiet foreboding as I stood before the small, humble cottage. The trees surrounding the village seemed to lean in closer, their shadows stretching across the earth like long fingers, reaching toward the unknown. A chill had settled in, creeping through the air as I stepped inside, my heart already burdened by the knowledge of what awaited me.


    Inside, the flickering light of a small fire illuminated the room, casting long shadows on the walls. She lay on a thin cot, her body frail and pale, the life that once sparkled in her eyes now dimmed. Her name was Lira, and she was the first to fall ill in the village¡ªa sickness that no one could explain. For days now, she had been bedridden, her strength draining with each passing hour. The soft rise and fall of her chest was the only sign of life left in her.


    I moved closer, careful not to disturb her as I sat down by her side. Her eyes fluttered open, and they met mine. Despite the weariness that clung to her, she managed to smile weakly.


    "You came..." she rasped, her voice cracked with illness, yet there was a glimmer of concern beneath it. "Have you been to the forest, then?"


    I nodded, keeping my emotions in check. "I went. But there''s nothing unusual there. Just the usual sounds of the forest."


    Her brow furrowed, and she reached out with trembling fingers, touching my cheek with a frail hand. "I''ve heard... strange things, in the night. Crying, whispers... like something is calling to me. I''m afraid."


    Her words sent a cold shiver down my spine. I tried to dismiss the unsettling feeling gnawing at the edges of my thoughts. "It''s probably just the wind, or some animal. Don''t worry, Lira. I''ll keep you safe."


    She nodded weakly, but the fear in her eyes never fully disappeared. "Be careful," she whispered, before her eyes closed again, her breath shallow.


    I sat there for a long while, watching over her fragile form. The weight of her words pressed heavily on my chest. I couldn''t shake the thought that something far more sinister was at work. But for now, I kept my thoughts to myself. She had enough to worry about without my doubts added to her burdens. So, I quietly rose and walked toward the door, my resolve hardening.


    The evening air had grown colder, biting at my skin as I made my way to the village square. The setting sun painted the sky with hues of orange and purple, and the shadows seemed to stretch longer as nightfall approached. There was still work to do. The forest was calling to me, and I couldn''t ignore it any longer.


    As I approached the village''s small, weathered house, the old wise farmer was standing by his porch, leaning on his staff. His sharp eyes caught sight of me immediately, and he studied me for a moment before speaking in a deep, gravelly voice.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    "You''re off to the forest at this hour?" he asked, concern flickering in his gaze, though he said nothing further.


    I forced a smile, hoping it didn''t seem too strained. "Just some work in the forest. Thought I''d take care of it before nightfall."


    He raised an eyebrow, his sharp gaze never leaving me. "At this hour? What kind of work could there be out there? You''ve been out there before, haven''t you?"


    I hesitated, maintaining my composure. "Just... some preparations," I said quickly. "Nothing to worry about."


    The farmer studied me for a moment longer, then nodded slowly. "Alright, but be careful. The forest''s no place to wander at night. If you need a lantern, I''ve got one. Take it."


    I nodded gratefully and stepped forward to accept the lantern. His gaze lingered on me, and I could sense the unspoken words in his eyes¡ªthe quiet concern. But he said nothing more, turning and walking back into his home, leaving me with his sigh that hung in the air like an omen.


    I thanked him softly and continued on my way, the lantern''s light casting flickering shadows around me as I moved toward the forest. The village seemed too quiet now, as though it were holding its breath. Waiting. For what? The question gnawed at me, and I couldn''t shake the feeling that I was walking into something far beyond my understanding.


    The path to the forest seemed longer now, the trees towering above me, and the air felt heavier with each step I took. The usual sounds of the forest¡ªthe chirping of insects, rustling leaves, the occasional cry of a night bird¡ªseemed distant, muffled, as if something were pushing them away.


    The silence pressed in on me, and the strange sounds that had plagued Lira''s nights echoed in my mind. Could they be real? Was there truly something more to her words? Doubt began to creep into my chest, twisting with fear.


    And then, it came.


    A low, eerie hum. A soft, unearthly sound that seemed to vibrate through the very air itself, making my skin prickle. At first, it was faint, like the murmur of wind, but it quickly grew louder, filling the space around me. It felt as though the forest itself were alive, breathing with me, drawing me deeper into its depths.


    I paused, my heart pounding in my chest. The pressure in the air became suffocating, as though the forest were trying to turn me back. But I couldn''t stop now. Not when I was so close. Lira''s words echoed in my mind, and I knew I couldn''t give up.


    I stepped forward, the weight of the pressure increasing with each step. The hum was all around me now, and my every instinct screamed for me to turn back, to flee. But I forced myself onward, my will stronger than my fear.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I reached the source of the sound. What I saw stopped me cold.


    A figure stood before me¡ªtall, cloaked in shadow, with eyes that seemed to glow faintly in the dim light. The hum vibrated through the very earth beneath me, making the ground tremble with its unnatural presence. My breath caught in my throat, and for a moment, I couldn''t move. The figure didn''t seem to notice me at first, its attention fixed on something else. But then, it slowly turned its head, and our eyes met.


    The eyes were not human. They were ancient¡ªsomething older than the forest, older than this village, older than anything I had ever known.


    And then, it spoke.

 chapter 15 : A Mortals Challenge

    The hooded man spoke, his voice cold and filled with authority, "Who gave the courage to a mere mortal to even step foot in this place?" His words reverberated like a distant echo in the suffocating silence, carrying with them a pressure that seemed to press against my chest. I was confused¡ªmy body stiff, rooted to the spot. I couldn''t speak, the weight of his gaze and the energy around him paralyzing me.


    He continued, his tone almost mocking. "You don''t belong here. This place... it''s not meant for the likes of you."


    His words cut through me like a sharp blade, but I held my ground, though my palms were slick with sweat. My heart thudded loudly in my chest, the sound echoing in my ears. The cold sweat trickling down my spine only made my anxiety worse. He didn''t move¡ªjust stood there, staring, as if waiting for me to react. Something wasn''t right. I could feel it in my gut, like a heavy presence pressing down on me from all directions.


    The silence stretched, each second feeling like an eternity. The air around him was dense, unnatural. Then, a small flicker of hesitation in his eyes caught my attention. His fingers twitched ever so slightly, and for the first time, he seemed... uncertain. His posture was rigid, but there was a subtle shift. As if he knew something I didn''t. A strange twinge of doubt flickered within me. What was he hiding?


    My mind raced. The air grew colder. I felt the energy in the space shift¡ªthe very atmosphere seemed charged with something sinister, and I knew he wasn''t alone. Something was coming.


    "Who... are you?" I finally managed to whisper, my voice trembling despite myself.


    The hooded man sneered, his lips curling upward. "I am a member of the Void Cult," he hissed, the words like poison dripping from his tongue. "And if you dare try anything... the shadows of my cult will consume you. Don''t even think of killing me. I''m not so easily dealt with."


    His words rang in the air, almost as if he were trying to convince himself as much as me. I watched his every movement, trying to see through his words, to understand his intentions. There was a sickening sense of inevitability in his voice, but something about his demeanor gave me pause. His confidence wavered just beneath the surface.


    "But you''re just a mortal," he added with disdain, his eyes narrowing. "You can''t even step into the realm of cultivators. What do you think you can do?"


    The insult stung, but it only fueled my determination. The villagers¡ªthose innocent people¡ªhad suffered because of him and his cult. The anger rose in me like a tidal wave, and with it, a surge of power coursed through me.


    I couldn''t let him walk away. I had to stop him, no matter the cost.


    I reached for the amulet around my neck, the one that had granted me powers I barely understood. My fingers trembled as I activated its invisibility function, disappearing from sight. I moved silently, stepping closer to him, my breath shallow as I moved within range of his protective formation.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Would it work? Would the amulet even protect me? A part of me doubted, but I couldn''t back down. This was my only chance.


    The amulet flickered to life, and I could feel its energy wrap around me like an invisible shield. I stepped through the formation, sensing the barrier push back at me, but I held my ground. My heartbeat quickened. I was in.


    Without hesitation, I kicked him hard, aiming for his chest, but his body felt like solid rock. My foot barely moved him from his place. His posture remained unyielding. This man¡ªthis cultist¡ªwas as stubborn as he was dangerous.


    Frustration surged through me, but I quickly recovered. I activated another function of the amulet, a protective barrier. It flared to life around me in a shimmering, translucent dome that extended outwards in a three-foot radius. As the barrier expanded, I could feel the energy radiating from it, pushing the hooded man backward.


    The look in his eyes turned from arrogance to panic. "What¡ªwhat is this?" he stammered, stepping back. His gaze shifted to the barrier surrounding me, then to the ground beneath him. "I can''t... I can''t leave," he muttered, voice barely a whisper. It was then that I understood.


    His formation acted as both a cage and a protection¡ªkeeping him in place, preventing him from running, yet keeping him safe from outside threats. He was trapped, and so was I.


    But he wasn''t entirely without options.


    With a surge of energy, the hooded man reached up, his hand glowing with dark power. He sent a burst of energy toward a small talisman paper hidden beneath his cloak. The air crackled with malevolent energy as a flash of gold light erupted from the paper.


    Something shot out from his hood¡ªa dark, formless shape¡ªand it darted off into the shadows, vanishing without a trace. A secret signal. A call for help.


    He''d sent word to his cult, but it was too late.


    The barrier pressed forward, expelling him from his protected position. As his body was thrust out of the formation, something twisted in the air, an oppressive darkness filling the space. From the depths of the formation, dark entities began to emerge. They were grotesque, with shifting shadows for bodies and glowing red eyes. Their forms were made of writhing tendrils of darkness, and they moved with a predatory hunger.


    I could feel the bile rise in my throat as the dark entities lunged toward him. The air grew thick with the stench of decay, and I could hear the sickening sound of the creatures feeding on his energy, devouring him piece by piece. His screams echoed, but they were quickly drowned out by the gurgling of the shadowy creatures. His body began to disintegrate as they consumed him, his soul torn apart by their ravenous hunger.


    I stepped back, unwilling to witness more of the grotesque scene. My stomach churned, and I could feel the weight of what had just happened pressing down on me. This man had been part of something far bigger and more dangerous than I''d realized.


    But as the last remnants of the hooded man were consumed, I turned away, my heart pounding in my chest. I had no time to mourn. The village needed me.


    I ran toward the village, my feet pounding the earth as I pushed myself faster. I could see the lights of the village in the distance, shining bright under the dark sky. The lights were not the flickering glow of lamps or torches¡ªthey were the souls of the villagers, their spirits glowing with an ethereal light. Some souls were already beginning to disperse, unable to hold their form any longer, but as I drew closer, they seemed to sense my presence and slowed their departure.


    The villagers, even in their spiritual form, were waiting for me. I could feel their eyes on me, their hopes rising as I approached. My chest tightened with emotion. I wasn''t just fighting for survival anymore; I was fighting to restore them, to give them a chance to live beyond the shadows of this curse.

 chapter 16 : In Their Light, I Found My Way

    The villagers had gathered at the same place where I first met them¡ªa place that once carried a cautious and wary air, now brimming with warmth, gratitude, and a heavy sadness. Their eyes reflected the weight of this farewell, and my heart ached at the thought of letting them go. One month may have been brief, but it was enough to leave an indelible mark on me.


    As I approached, the storm in my chest seemed to swell with every step. It wasn''t just sadness¡ªit was the suffocating grip of loss, the same cold emptiness that had followed me since that day. Was I always destined to lose the people I cared about? To stand still while they moved on without me? The thought wrapped around my heart like a vice, tightening with every breath.


    The entire village knelt down in unison, heads bowed, their silent reverence carrying more weight than words ever could. I stood frozen, overwhelmed by the gesture, unsure how to respond. Their humility only deepened my internal battle, each bowed head whispering to me, This is the end. You cannot follow them.


    "Please, stand up," I said gently, my voice trembling just enough to betray my emotions. "There''s no need for this. If you wish to show your gratitude, you can do it without kneeling."


    But they didn''t move. The air grew thick with the weight of their sincerity, pressing down on me like an invisible force. One of the elders raised his head slowly, his expression calm yet resolute.


    "No, my lord. To stand would be to diminish the depth of our gratitude. To not kneel would be disrespectful. You have given us more than we could ever repay."


    I tried to argue, but the words tangled in my throat, swallowed by the immense weight of this parting. Their sincerity left me speechless. Reluctantly, I accepted their gesture, yet my heart ached as though it were being torn apart, piece by piece.


    The children were the first to approach, their innocent eyes wide with curiosity and a tinge of sadness. "Big brother," one of them asked, "why are we glowing? Why aren''t you glowing like us?"


    The question hung in the air, simple and pure, yet it struck me like a blade. Their innocence was so untainted by the world, unburdened by the gravity of what was happening. How could I tell them the truth? How could I say they were leaving this world forever? That I had no way to follow them?


    I knelt down, forcing a soft smile despite the turmoil in my chest. "You''re not dying," I said gently. "You''re just¡­ going to the sky. To where the stars are."


    "The stars?" Their eyes lit up with wonder. "Are we really going there?"


    "Yes," I nodded, steadying my voice. "You''ll shine just like them."


    "But why aren''t you coming with us?" one of the younger children asked, his voice trembling, his concern pure and unguarded.


    My smile faltered. The pain radiated outward from my chest, nearly breaking through my carefully maintained composure. "Because my time hasn''t come yet. But one day, I''ll join you. I promise."This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    "Then come early!" they exclaimed, their voices filled with innocent excitement, unaware of the finality in their departure.


    I laughed softly, the sound fragile and fleeting. "I''ll come when it''s my time. Wait for me there."


    That brief moment of laughter lightened my heart¡ªif only for a second. But as the time drew closer, the reality struck me with full force. One by one, the villagers began to glow more brightly, their forms fading into particles of light. I tried to hold onto the smile, to remain strong for them, but it slipped, and the weight of their departure crushed me.


    Tears streamed down my face, falling silently onto the ground. My shoulders shook with the force of my sobs, each breath raw and unrestrained.


    "Aaaaaahhhh¡­" My grief tore through the silence, a sound I couldn''t hold back.


    The wind picked up, swirling around me as though echoing my turmoil. Leaves rustled, petals lifted into the sky, carried away by the current. As the villagers faded into light, the world around me seemed to mourn with me, the sky darkening as if sharing my sorrow.


    Amidst the storm of my emotions, a calm voice spoke beside me. It was the fisherman¡ªthe one who had taught me the importance of flowing with life, like a river. His steady presence grounded me, just like it always had.


    "Letting go is part of life, child," he said, his voice gentle yet firm. "It is only when you learn to let go that you begin to understand the reality of the world."


    I looked up at him, my vision blurred by tears. His words didn''t immediately make sense. How could I let go of them? How could I accept their departure? But his eyes were steady, unwavering in their calm.


    "Life is not just the present," he continued. "It is woven from the past and extends into the future. There is nothing wrong with being nostalgic¡ªremembering those moments that brought you happiness. But living your entire life in that nostalgia¡­ that is where many fail. They fear letting go, thinking they will never experience something so beautiful again. But how do you know that''s true? Who''s to say there isn''t something even more beautiful waiting for you ahead?"


    His words struck a chord deep within me. My grief, my reluctance to let go, wasn''t just a natural response¡ªit was a form of fear. A fear of loss. A fear of forgetting. But his words reminded me that the future held more. It wasn''t the end of something beautiful; it was the beginning of something new.


    "You must stop guessing at the future," he said. "But that doesn''t mean you should live recklessly, as if there''s no tomorrow. Live a life that you can be proud of¡ªa life that, even when it ends, you can smile and say, ''I gave it everything.''"


    He paused, his gaze steady. "If you fear the future or constantly dwell on death, then you are not truly living. Trust that there will be more moments¡ªmoments that will leave an even stronger mark on your heart."


    The weight in my chest began to lift. It was difficult to accept, but he was right. This wasn''t the end¡ªit was just one chapter in a much longer journey. These villagers had become a part of my story, and I, a part of theirs. Nothing could take that away.


    I wiped my tears and nodded, a new determination settling within me. "Thank you," I said softly. "I won''t forget your words."


    The fisherman smiled, his eyes full of warmth. "Go now, child. The path you''ve been searching for is waiting. Walk it without hesitation."


    With a final glance at the fading lights of the villagers, I turned toward the horizon, my heart lighter than it had been in a long time. For the first time since arriving in the mortal realm, I knew what I had to do.


    This was the beginning of a new journey¡ªa journey to help others, to be the light in their darkest moments. The path I had been searching for was finally clear.


    And with that newfound purpose, I took my first step forward.

 chapter 17 : Fragments of the Forgotten

    The village had gone dark. Only the soft glow of lanterns flickered in the distance, swaying in the wind like dying embers. I stood in the middle of the silent square, my breath visible in the cold air.


    Beneath my feet, something shifted.


    A faint, golden light seeped from the cracks in the earth. Slowly, it took form¡ªan ancient book rising from the ground. Its cover was worn, the leather cracked and faded with age, yet it pulsed with a strange warmth, as though alive.


    I hesitated, my instincts screaming to walk away, but my hand moved on its own. The book was heavier than it looked. Not physically¡ªit weighed little¡ªbut something deeper, something unseen pressed against my chest as though the air itself had thickened around me.


    When I opened it, strange symbols filled the page. At first, they seemed foreign, incomprehensible. Then, like whispers in the back of my mind, the meaning unraveled.


    "If you are reading this, you have been chosen to guard the knowledge within. This is no ordinary book¡ªit holds the truth of countless ages, knowledge that can change the world itself. But beware¡­ there are those who would use this knowledge to bring ruin, to twist the natural order into chaos. You must protect it at all costs, for in the wrong hands, it could doom everything."


    Chosen? To guard ancient knowledge? My pulse quickened. My fingers tightened around the book as the weight of those words sank in.


    I turned the next page, the script growing more urgent.


    "The cycle of torment endured by this village was no coincidence. It was all to protect this knowledge, to seal it away from those who would twist its power. Every soul here has paid the price to ensure its secrecy. Their lives were the cost, their suffering the seal."


    My stomach churned. The truth was suffocating. These people¡ªthey had sacrificed everything for this book. Their lives, their families, their futures¡ªall to guard something they never asked for.


    I turned another page. A hastily scrawled note stood out among the flowing text.


    "The world is not as it seems. Shadows lurk in every corner. Beware the Void Cult. They seek the end¡ªthe return of all things to nothingness. Their leader is a madman, an existence at the Immortal Sovereign Realm. They will stop at nothing to claim this knowledge. Run. Hide. They will come for you."


    I snapped the book shut, my breath coming in short gasps. I wasn''t ready for this. I had just barely survived the last trial. Now, this burden¡ªthis responsibility¡ªwas suddenly mine to carry?This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Run. That was the only thought that made sense. Run before they find me.


    The formation that had once protected the village was gone, its shattering a beacon that would surely draw the cult''s attention. The hooded man... he had sent a signal.


    I spun around, clutching the book tightly, and bolted into the forest.


    The trees closed in around me, their branches clawing at my clothes as I ran. The cold air burned my lungs, but I didn''t dare slow down. My heartbeat pounded in my ears, drowning out all sound.


    Keep moving. Don''t stop.


    The forest was a labyrinth of shadows, every corner a potential hiding place¡ªor a trap. I activated the amulet around my neck, and my body shimmered, fading into the darkness.


    I crouched beneath a cluster of bushes, my breath ragged. The smell of damp earth and decaying leaves filled my nostrils. The air was cold, biting at my skin. I pressed myself closer to the ground, willing my racing heart to slow.


    The world around me was unnervingly still. Even the wind seemed to have vanished, leaving only silence. I strained my ears, listening.


    Crunch.


    A single footstep echoed through the forest.


    Crunch. Crunch.


    The sound grew louder¡ªslow, deliberate, each step calculated. My pulse thundered in my chest as a hooded figure came into view, his dark robes blending with the shadows.


    He stopped a few feet away, his head turning slowly from side to side. His face was obscured by the hood, but I could feel his gaze sweeping over the area, searching. My muscles tensed.


    The figure reached into his robe and pulled out a talisman, his fingers tracing the glowing symbols on its surface. He muttered something under his breath, and the talisman flared with light.


    I held my breath, every muscle in my body screaming to run.


    The figure turned his head in my direction. My heart nearly stopped.


    He sees me.


    I pressed my back against the cold ground, the damp earth clinging to my clothes. I could feel his gaze lingering, the weight of it pressing down on me.


    The hooded figure took a step closer. His hand tightened around the talisman, its glow intensifying.


    Don''t move. Don''t breathe.


    For what felt like an eternity, he stood there, his eyes locked on the spot where I hid. Then, without warning, he spun on his heel and bolted into the forest, vanishing into the shadows.


    I exhaled slowly, my body trembling.


    But the relief was short-lived. The air changed.


    It thickened, heavy with an ominous energy. The forest held its breath once more, and the ground beneath me began to tremble.


    Above the treetops, a sphere of crackling energy formed, swirling with chaotic power. It grew larger, the hum of its destructive force filling the air.


    I stared, frozen in place. My mind screamed at me to run, but my legs refused to move.


    The sphere descended with terrifying speed.


    The amulet around my neck flared, forming a barrier just as the blast hit. The ground shook violently, a wave of force tearing through the forest. The barrier held for a brief moment before cracks spread across its surface like a spider''s web.


    It shattered, and the full force of the blast slammed into me. Pain lanced through my body, and I was thrown backward, crashing into the ground. Blood trickled from my wounds, warm against my skin.


    Darkness crept into my vision. My body felt heavy, my limbs unresponsive.


    Then, amidst the chaos, a voice whispered in my ear¡ªsoft, cold, and twisted.


    "I got you."


    The world spun, and everything went black.

 chapter 18 : The Flame Within

    Yi Lian''s vision blurred as blood dripped from his wounds, his body teetering on the brink of collapse. His legs refused to move any further, and a sharp pain radiated from his chest with every breath. Just as his consciousness began to fade, the ancient amulet around his neck trembled violently.


    A low hum echoed through the air, and cracks of light spidered out from the ground beneath him. The space around him twisted, folding inward and forming a shimmering portal.


    The hooded man''s eyes widened in shock. "A spatial portal?" He instinctively raised his hand, channeling a burst of energy to disrupt it. His fingers twisted into a series of complex seals, and a wave of power surged forth to shatter the portal¡ª


    But the moment his hand touched the portal''s fluctuating edge, a violent backlash sent him flying backward. A loud crack echoed as his arm snapped under the recoil. He crashed to the ground, clutching his fractured limb, his face contorted in pain. His eyes never left the fading portal.


    Yi Lian''s body collapsed into the swirling light, vanishing without a trace. The last thing he saw before darkness claimed him was the hooded man''s furious glare.


    The man staggered to his feet, panting heavily, his injured arm hanging limply at his side.


    A shadowy figure emerged from the darkness, kneeling before him with a solemn expression. "Shadow of Nihil," the figure said in a low, respectful tone. "Was the target captured?"


    The hooded man pulled down his hood, revealing his sharp features and cold, indifferent gaze. His dark eyes seemed to pierce straight into the soul of the kneeling figure.


    "No." His voice was calm, almost bored.


    The kneeling figure''s heart sank. His eyes darted upward, only to meet that unrelenting gaze. A cold sweat broke out across his forehead. Without a moment''s hesitation, he pressed his forehead to the ground, his voice trembling. "My failure! I was careless! I should''ve searched more thoroughly!"


    The other cloaked figures in the shadows immediately followed suit, pressing their heads to the ground in submission. The air grew heavy with tension, each heartbeat echoing like a drum in the silence.


    "Enough," the man said, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife.


    The kneeling figure cautiously raised his head, a flicker of relief crossing his face¡ªuntil he noticed the headless body lying beside him. His eyes went wide as the truth hit him like a thunderclap. He glanced down at his own body, realizing too late that it was his own decapitated corpse lying there.


    His thoughts dissolved into nothingness.


    The man in black kicked the severed head aside with a casual smile. His voice took on an almost playful tone. "I don''t like failures," he said quietly, each word cutting like a blade. "Especially when they waste my time."


    He turned toward the fading remnants of the portal, his eyes narrowing. "The journey isn''t over, Yi Lian. Not until we retrieve the book from your hands."This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Yi Lian stumbled out of the portal, collapsing onto the cold stone floor of a courtyard. His body felt like it had been torn apart and stitched back together. Every muscle screamed in agony, and his breath came in ragged gasps. His vision swam, and for a moment, the world spun wildly around him.


    He tried to push himself up, but his strength failed. His face hit the cold stone once more. Before darkness overtook him, a familiar voice called out from above.


    "You''ve returned," said a calm, familiar voice.


    When Yi Lian opened his eyes again, the world was still and quiet. He lay on a soft mat beneath the shade of a cherry blossom tree. Pale petals drifted gently in the breeze, their fragrance soothing his troubled mind.


    Jing Xuan stood nearby, her arms folded, watching him with a serene but unreadable expression. Her flowing robes rustled softly in the wind, and her calm gaze seemed to see straight through him.


    Yi Lian struggled to sit up, wincing as pain flared through his body. "Master¡­" he croaked. "I''ve made my decision."


    Jing Xuan raised an eyebrow. "Oh?" she said softly. "And what decision might that be?"


    Yi Lian clenched his fists, forcing himself to his feet despite the pain. His voice was steady, filled with determination. "I will continue my journey in the mortal realm," he declared. "But this time, without your support. No amulet, no safety net. I want to walk this path with my own strength, my own determination."


    Jing Xuan remained silent for a long moment, studying him carefully. Her eyes were calm, but beneath that calmness lay an unreadable depth. Finally, she nodded.


    "Very well," she said. "I won''t stop you. But know this: the road ahead will be harsh. Your resolve will be tested in ways you cannot yet comprehend."


    She paused, her eyes becoming serious. "The amulet was only a temporary protection. Out there, you''ll be on your own. No one will shield you from the consequences of your choices."


    "I understand," Yi Lian said firmly.


    He turned to leave but hesitated, his brow furrowing in thought. "Master¡­" he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "What is the Immortal Sovereign Realm?"


    Jing Xuan''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Where did you hear that term?"


    Yi Lian explained everything¡ªthe hooded man, the village, the cult, and the mysterious book he had sworn to protect. His words came out in a rush, his voice growing more urgent as he described the events that had led him to this moment.


    Jing Xuan''s expression darkened as she listened. Her calm demeanor wavered ever so slightly, a shadow of concern flickering across her face.


    "You encountered that village?" she muttered, a hint of shock in her voice. "And you became the guardian of the book they protect?"


    Yi Lian nodded.


    Jing Xuan exhaled slowly. "You''ve been caught in a conflict far larger than you can imagine. The Immortal Sovereign Realm is not something you should concern yourself with for now. Only those beyond the Divine Body Realm can even aspire to reach it. The strongest at that level can submerge entire continents or shatter planets. They are rarely seen in this world, but their presence¡­ is devastating."


    A chill ran down Yi Lian''s spine at her words. He instinctively reached for the book at his side, intending to offer it to her for safekeeping.


    Jing Xuan raised a hand to stop him. "It''s no use. The book chooses its guardian. No one else can take it from you¡ªnot even me."


    "But¡­" Yi Lian hesitated, his voice faltering. "I''m not strong enough to protect it."


    "You''re not yet," Jing Xuan said, her tone softening. "But strength isn''t something you acquire overnight. Remember this: all the answers you seek¡­ are already with you."


    Yi Lian frowned, confusion flickering across his face. He was about to ask what she meant when he noticed her gaze locked on the book. Suddenly, it clicked.


    The book holds the key, a key to grow stronger even with the weak talent this body have.


    A fire ignited within him. He no longer sought strength out of fear or selfish desires. Now, he wanted strength to protect those who could not protect themselves.


    His journey was just beginning.

 chapter 19 : Master鈥檚 Warning

    Yi Lian took a deep breath and stood up. His eyes were calm, filled with resolve. "Master¡­ I''ve made my decision. I''ll return to the mortal realm," he said firmly.


    Jing Xuan''s gaze softened, but she raised her hand to stop him. "Not yet," she said in a calm but resolute tone.


    Yi Lian was taken aback. "Master, why?"


    "You''re emotionally unstable," Jing Xuan stated without hesitation.


    His brows furrowed in confusion. "Emotionally unstable?" he echoed, his voice thoughtful. He paused for a moment, trying to grasp her meaning. "I don''t feel unstable. I''ve made peace with my past. I''ve reflected, let go of my desires, and accepted my failures. I''ve grown beyond them, haven''t I?"


    Jing Xuan shook her head gently, her eyes filled with a mix of concern and wisdom. "You think you''ve overcome it, but the mind isn''t that simple. Emotional instability isn''t always something you can recognize on the surface. It''s like a seed buried deep inside you. It hides, waiting for the right moment¡ªor the wrong one¡ªto sprout."


    Yi Lian listened carefully, but doubt lingered in his mind. He had gone through so much. His journey had reshaped him entirely. How could he still be emotionally unstable?


    Sensing his confusion, Jing Xuan sighed softly. "Yi Lian, you''ve experienced more than most mortals ever will, but your journey is far from over. I''ve lived longer than you can imagine. I''ve seen countless cultivators take the same path¡ªsome stronger than you, some wiser, yet many of them fell because they underestimated their own hearts."


    Yi Lian opened his mouth to respond but closed it again. He knew better than to dismiss her words. Still, he needed answers. "Master, what do you mean by emotionally unstable? I don''t understand."


    Jing Xuan folded her hands behind her back and looked at him steadily. "Let me ask you this: have you ever had moments where painful memories suddenly resurface, catching you off guard? Times when you thought you had moved on, only for those feelings to come rushing back?"


    Yi Lian''s eyes flickered. He thought back to the times in the mortal realm when he had been overwhelmed by flashes of guilt and helplessness. There were moments when he remembered the faces of those he couldn''t protect. He had dismissed those moments as fleeting, thinking they were remnants of his past self¡ªechoes of a man he no longer was.


    Jing Xuan continued, her voice steady and knowing. "You''ve buried many emotions deep within you. Perhaps you believed you had conquered them, but they are still there, waiting for the right moment to resurface. You can ignore them for now, but when you least expect it, they will rise again, stronger than before. And when that happens, you will be vulnerable."Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Yi Lian clenched his fists. Her words struck him like a thunderclap. He hated to admit it, but she was right. There were moments when his emotions would surge without warning. He had always pushed them aside, thinking they were insignificant. Now he wasn''t so sure.


    "How do I deal with it?" he asked quietly, his voice filled with both curiosity and a hint of frustration. "How do I make sure those feelings don''t control me?"


    Jing Xuan smiled faintly. "The first step is awareness. You''ve taken that step by asking this question. But awareness alone isn''t enough. You must confront those emotions¡ªnot avoid them, not suppress them. Face them head-on, understand their roots, and accept them. Only then will you be able to move beyond them."


    Yi Lian fell silent, contemplating her words. Confronting emotions¡­ It sounded simple, but he knew it would be anything but easy. Memories from his past surfaced once again, but this time, he didn''t push them away. He let them linger, observing them with a newfound sense of clarity.


    "I thought I had grown strong by leaving my past behind," he said finally, his voice steady but tinged with sorrow. "But maybe I only locked it away, pretending it didn''t matter anymore."


    Jing Xuan nodded. "Exactly. Growth isn''t about abandoning your past. It''s about integrating it into who you are, learning from it without letting it control you." She paused, then added, "You are stronger than you realize, Yi Lian. But strength without emotional clarity is like a blade without a handle. It will cut you just as easily as it cuts your enemies."


    Yi Lian''s gaze sharpened. He could feel a flame igniting within him¡ªa desire not for power, but for true strength. The kind of strength that came from understanding, from mastering not just his cultivation but his own heart.


    "Then I will confront it," he declared, his voice resolute. "I won''t run from my emotions anymore. I will face them, no matter how painful they are. And when I return to the mortal realm, I''ll be stronger¡ªinside and out."


    Jing Xuan''s expression softened into a rare smile. "Good. That''s the Yi Lian I''ve been waiting for."


    There was a brief silence as her words settled in the air. Then, as if sensing his lingering thoughts, she spoke again. "Yi Lian, remember this: the road ahead will not be easy. You will stumble. You will fall. But as long as you continue to rise, you will never be truly defeated."


    Yi Lian nodded. He could feel the weight of her words, but instead of being overwhelmed, he felt invigorated. His heart was lighter, his mind clearer.


    "I understand, Master," he said, bowing deeply. "Thank you."


    Jing Xuan watched him for a moment before turning away. "You''ve grown more than you know, Yi Lian. Now go. The answers you seek are within you. Trust yourself."


    With those final words, she disappeared into the shadows, leaving Yi Lian alone in the vast hall.


    He stood there for a long moment, reflecting on everything that had just transpired. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips.


    "This time," he whispered to himself, "I won''t be running from anything. Not my past, not my emotions, and certainly not my future."


    And with that, he turned and walked toward the next chapter of his journey, his heart burning with newfound determination.

 chapter 20 : Breath of Endurance

    The space portal closed behind Yi Lian with a soft hum, leaving him in the heart of a rugged, untamed mountain range. Towering trees surrounded him, their branches weaving together to form a thick canopy that blocked out most of the sunlight. The air was heavy and damp, filled with the rustle of leaves and distant cries of beasts hidden deep in the wilderness. Unlike the peaceful village he had just left, this forest was ruled by raw survival and primal instincts.


    The damp earth clung to his boots, and the distant growls of unseen creatures reverberated like a low warning through the trees. A strange sense of nostalgia washed over Yi Lian as he stood there, taking in the wild beauty around him. It reminded him of the trial he had barely survived, the memories still fresh in his mind. His body carried the scars of that experience¡ªsome visible, others hidden deep within.


    But there was no time to dwell on the past. He scanned the area, wary of what might be lurking in the shadows. Eventually, he found a large tree with sturdy roots twisting out of the ground like protective arms. The cover felt rough and uneven, but it was the safest place he could find for now. He leaned against the bark with a sigh and pulled out the ancient book that had guided him so far.


    The cover felt warm, almost alive, as if it were waiting for him. With a deep breath, Yi Lian opened it. The familiar scent of aged paper filled his nostrils. The text on the newly revealed page pulsed faintly with power.


    "Even if you are the Guardian, only if you are worthy will the book reveal its knowledge."


    His brow furrowed as he turned the page. His heart skipped a beat.


    "To prove your will and worthiness, you must endure. Live without food for 108 days. Many believe they will die, but there is a way: meditate using the technique described on the following page. If you survive, you will pass. Alternatively, you may meditate for one full year with sustenance."


    108 days without food? Yi Lian''s chest tightened.


    A fierce debate erupted in his mind.


    "Was it worth risking death just to complete the process faster?"


    The first option promised rapid results but could kill him. The second option was safer, but time-consuming. He remembered the dangers of the Void Cult and the suffering of the villagers. He clenched his fists.


    "I can''t sit here and contemplate forever. I have to do what''s best, no matter the risk."


    Determined, Yi Lian turned the page again. His eyes fell on a detailed description of Pranayama¡ªthe art of breath and energy control.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    It wasn''t just about breathing. It was about how a single breath could change life itself.


    Curious, he decided to experience it for himself. Following the instructions, he sat cross-legged at the base of the tree and began the practice.


    Inhale. Hold. Exhale. Hold.


    At first, it seemed almost too easy. His breath flowed smoothly, his mind calm. He focused solely on his breath, letting go of control, just observing. For a fleeting moment, confidence sparked within him. Maybe this wouldn''t be so difficult after all.


    But then the first hour passed.


    The dull ache in his stomach grew sharper, gnawing at his insides like a hungry beast. His mind began to wander. Memories of freshly baked bread and steaming bowls of soup flashed before his eyes. His mouth watered.


    He clenched his fists again, forcing himself back to his breath.


    Inhale. Hold. Exhale. Hold.


    Time blurred. The sun began to dip beyond the horizon. When Yi Lian opened his eyes, it was already evening. The warm, golden light bathed the world in an ethereal glow as the sun set behind the mountains.


    In that moment, everything looked deeper¡ªmore vivid. The leaves shimmered, and the world seemed to breathe with him. A soft breeze brushed against his skin, carrying a strange warmth he hadn''t known existed. It was fleeting, like an illusion, yet it left an indelible mark on his soul.


    The ache in his stomach faded into the background. His focus sharpened, his senses growing clearer with each breath.


    A smile spread across his face.


    Without hesitation, he started the breathing exercise again, eager to reclaim that immersive feeling. But no matter how hard he tried, the sensation didn''t return.


    Frustration bubbled within him. It came once¡­ so why isn''t it happening again?


    He paused, taking a break. His thoughts churned in search of an answer. What had been different the first time? What had allowed him to feel that moment of profound connection?


    He sat in silence, reflecting. Had it been the way I focused? Was it something about my state of mind? Or¡­ was it something I wasn''t even aware of?


    The more he thought, the clearer it became¡ªhe couldn''t force it. The feeling had come not from effort, but from surrender. He had simply been present, without expectation or control.


    Realization dawned like the first light of dawn.


    "Each breath wasn''t just a step toward survival¡ªit was a glimpse into something deeper, a power hidden in the stillness of the world around me."


    Yi Lian closed his eyes once again, this time not chasing the elusive feeling. He just breathed.The dull ache in his stomach was still there, but it no longer consumed him. It lingered in the background¡ªa reminder of his body''s limits¡ªyet something had changed. He accepted the pain, and in that acceptance, he felt his breath within it. The ache and the breath became one, merging into something deeper, something unexplainable. For now, each breath was enough.


    But deep within, something stirred¡ªa ripple, faint but growing with every breath. It resonated in places he had never known existed, a subtle shift that could change everything. Unaware of the profound transformation this single breath would ignite, Yi Lian sat in stillness, his trial far from over. The breath that began in pain would one day reshape his very existence.

 chapter 21 : Hunger, Stars, and a Serpent

    The sky darkened far quicker than I expected. Dusk arrived with a vengeance, swallowing the light in a shroud of shadows. The sun had only just touched the horizon minutes ago, or so it seemed, but now it was gone¡ªreplaced by a bruised sky teetering on the edge of black. A fleeting warmth evaporated with the retreating light, leaving a chill in its wake that seeped into my bones. I cursed myself for not seeking shelter earlier. My eagerness to unravel the secrets of the book had clouded my judgment.


    Now, I stood in a vast forest that pulsed with an unsettling vitality. The trees towered like ancient sentinels, their twisted branches clawing at the heavens. The forest was far from silent¡ªwhispers of wind slithered between the trunks, carrying with them the scent of damp earth and something faintly metallic, like blood on iron.


    The air felt heavier with each passing moment, oppressive and thick, pressing down on me like a tangible force. Visibility dwindled to mere paces ahead. The shadows shifted and danced¡ªnot with the randomness of wind or light, but with intention.


    They felt alive. Watching. Waiting.


    My heart thudded in my chest as I scanned my surroundings. The tree I had rested against earlier now seemed my only viable option. Its thick, gnarled trunk promised some measure of protection, and there were no signs of nests or lurking creatures¡ªat least, none that I could see. It would have to do.


    Suddenly, my stomach growled, the pain sharper and more insistent than before. A burning ache tore through my gut, demanding attention. I clutched my abdomen, gasping at the intensity. It was as if my body had only just remembered its hunger after being consumed by the day''s exertions.


    Why now? I wondered. The pain was unlike anything I''d experienced¡ªraw, primal, consuming. My thoughts drifted back to the book''s teachings: Pranayama¡ªthe control of breath and energy. It can suppress desires, even hunger, if practiced correctly.


    Desperation forced me to act. I sat cross-legged beneath the tree, closed my eyes, and began the practice. My breathing slowed¡ªeach inhalation deep and deliberate, each exhalation a conscious release of tension. The ache dulled¡ªnot gone, but manageable. Like a distant echo rather than a scream.


    But the calm was fragile. The forest refused to let me forget how exposed I was. Leaves rustled ominously, distant growls echoed between the trees, and the occasional snap of a twig sent my pulse racing.


    I can''t stay on the ground. Not like this. I''d be easy prey.


    Groaning, I forced my aching body to move. My limbs trembled with fatigue as I climbed the tree, each branch a battle. I found a sturdy limb high above the forest floor and settled there, pressing my back against the trunk. It was far from comfortable, but it offered a semblance of safety.


    The stars gleamed above¡ªcold and distant, like the eyes of silent watchers. I began counting them, desperate for distraction.


    One, two, three¡­ sixty-six¡­Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Before I knew it, sleep claimed me.


    I woke to a strange heaviness. My limbs felt pinned, a crushing weight pressing down on my chest. Dazed and disoriented, I blinked into the darkness, trying to shake off the lingering fog of sleep. The world spun for a heartbeat before coming into sharp, terrifying focus.


    A snake.


    It was coiled around me, its muscular body wrapped tightly around my torso, pinning my arms to my sides. Its head hovered just inches from my face, its cold, unblinking eyes locked onto mine.


    My breath hitched. Every instinct screamed at me to thrash, to break free, but I knew better. One wrong move, one sudden motion, and it would strike.


    The serpent''s scales gleamed faintly in the starlight, a pattern of silver and black that seemed to ripple like water. It shifted slightly, its coils tightening just enough to remind me of its strength. My heart hammered against my ribs, panic rising like a tide.


    How did it get here? How long has it been watching me?


    The snake lifted its head, tilting it in a disturbingly human-like manner. Then it spoke.


    "Awake at last, little wanderer?"


    Its voice was soft, almost melodic, but with a sinister undertone that sent a chill racing down my spine.


    What is this thing? I thought, panic returning. Its size¡­ its aura¡­ Could it be a demonic beast at Core Formation level or higher?


    Before I could think further, the serpent''s head snapped toward me, its golden eyes burning with irritation.


    "Don''t compare me to those crude beasts, mortal."


    I froze. My thoughts ground to a halt. It had responded to my internal voice.


    "You think too loudly," it continued, its voice dripping with amusement. "Your thoughts are like echoes in an empty hall¡ªimpossible to ignore."


    It can hear my thoughts. My skin prickled with fear. This isn''t an ordinary creature¡ªnot even a high-level demonic beast.


    "You''re finally catching on," it said, eyes narrowing. "But don''t mistake me for something so¡­ simple."


    "What¡­ what are you?" I whispered, my voice barely audible.


    The serpent chuckled¡ªa low, hissing sound that resonated deep in my bones. "A guardian," it said, its tongue flicking out to taste the air. "Of these woods¡­ and of the book you carry. You''ve stirred something ancient, something that watches those who dare seek its knowledge."


    A guardian? Of the book? My mind raced. The book had warned of trials, but nothing like this.


    "I¡ªI''m not here to cause trouble," I stammered. "I only want to grow stronger."


    The serpent''s eyes gleamed with an unsettling light. "Strength? Is that what you think you''ll find? Foolish. Strength comes at a price, one you''ve only begun to pay."


    It slithered closer, its head level with mine. "Tell me, little one¡­ have you chosen yet? Will you starve for 108 days or take the longer path of patience and meditation?"


    I froze. "How do you know about the challenge?"


    The serpent smiled¡ªor at least, it seemed to. "I know many things. Few survive the path of starvation. It breaks them, piece by piece. Even those who endure¡­ are never the same."


    Its voice dropped to a whisper. "But if you succeed, the rewards will be unlike anything you''ve imagined. Strength beyond the mortal frame¡­ a glimpse of what lies beyond the limits of flesh."


    Temptation gripped me. The promise was too grand, too alluring.


    "What would you choose?" I asked cautiously.


    The serpent''s eyes sparkled with a strange, knowing light. "Ah¡­ clever. But it''s not my choice to make. However, I can tell you this: the path you choose will reveal who you truly are. The impatient burn bright and fade fast. The patient become unshakable."


    It began to uncoil, its body sliding down the tree with eerie grace, leaving me free at last.


    "Choose wisely, little wanderer," it hissed, disappearing into the shadows. "I will be watching."


    I sat motionless for a long time, the weight of its words sinking in. My heart still thundered in my chest, but my mind churned with possibilities.


    The forest grew silent once more. The stars above seemed dimmer now, as if hiding their light from the choices yet to be made.


    And somewhere, just beyond the edge of sight, I knew the serpent waited. Watching. Waiting.

 chapter 22 : Climbing Toward Silence

    Hearing the snake''s words shook Yi Lian to his core. The revelation that there were others before him¡ªguardians of the book, all dead¡ªwas a heavy weight pressing down on his chest. His thoughts spiraled into chaos, a flood of unrelenting questions.


    Why did they die? What led to their deaths? Were they hunted down by powerful organizations or sinister cults like the Void Cult, all because they possessed this book?


    Yi Lian clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. His jaw tightened as he whispered to himself, "I need answers."


    He glanced toward the place where the snake had disappeared. A part of him wanted to scream, to demand the truth right here and now. But reason quickly prevailed. That creature was far beyond his current strength. Acting impulsively would only end in disaster. He was too weak¡ªpowerless in front of something so ancient and formidable.


    His resolve grew like a flame, burning away hesitation. His heart steadied as his purpose sharpened.


    "I will walk this path. I must uncover the secrets tied to this book. But I won''t let the desire for strength consume me. My values will remain unchanged. I''ll help those in need and solve the problems they cannot face on their own."


    A wave of nostalgia washed over him, dragging him back to his previous life. He was once just an ordinary college student, living in a world where survival meant passing exams and paying rent¡ªnot facing death at every corner.


    But look at me now.


    A hollow chuckle escaped his lips. There was no humor in it, only a grim acceptance. Walking a path where death waited around every corner¡­ yet I have no regrets. This is the life I chose¡ªnot just for myself, but for those who need someone to stand for them.


    His heart calmed as he made peace with his decision. He bowed slightly in the direction the snake had gone and whispered, "Thank you." Then, without another glance, he turned away.


    Unbeknownst to him, the air shimmered faintly where the snake had vanished. Two figures stood in the shadows, their forms hidden from mortal sight.


    "Interesting," a deep voice rumbled.


    "It seems this one may last longer than the others," replied the snake with a quiet chuckle.


    Their voices faded into the wind as Yi Lian continued his journey, unaware of the unseen eyes watching his every step.


    Yi Lian turned his attention toward the towering mountain ahead. Its jagged cliffs rose like ancient sentinels, their peaks cutting into the sky. This will do. It was a perfect place¡ªisolated, with fewer beasts compared to the dense forest. Its elevation would give him the solitude he needed for meditation and practicing pranayama.


    "The higher I go, the better I can focus without constantly watching my back," Yi Lian thought, his mind already visualizing a peaceful spot where he could start anew.


    He resumed his journey through the forest. The thick canopy above swallowed most of the sunlight, leaving the ground below in a dim green haze. Every sound¡ªthe rustling of leaves, the snap of twigs¡ªset him on edge. He had learned quickly that even the smallest lapse in vigilance could lead to disaster.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Suddenly, a rustling ahead made him freeze. His instincts kicked in as he stepped behind a tree, his breathing steady but his senses sharp. The noise grew louder until a deer emerged from the underbrush, its gentle eyes scanning the surroundings. It lowered its head to graze, unaware of the danger lurking nearby.


    Yi Lian exhaled quietly. It''s just a deer.


    But before he could step out, another bush shook violently. His heart clenched as a tiger burst from the foliage, its eyes locked onto the unsuspecting deer.


    The predator moved with terrifying precision, pouncing in a blur of motion. The deer barely had time to react before the tiger''s claws sank into its side. A final, desperate cry escaped the deer before it fell limp. The tiger dragged its prize into the shadows, leaving only broken branches and a faint trail of blood.


    Yi Lian stood frozen, his heart thudding¡ªnot from fear, but from understanding. This was the natural order¡ªa predator surviving by taking the life of another. There was no cruelty, no malice in the tiger''s actions. It was simply necessity.


    A thought struck him, sharp and undeniable:


    "If I lack strength, I''ll inevitably become prey. I must find balance¡ªbetween what I want to be and what the world demands of me."


    His eyes darkened with determination. He pressed on, his steps quicker, more deliberate. The memory of the tiger burned in his mind¡ªa vivid reminder of the ever-present dangers around him.


    The climb toward the mountain was longer than he had expected. The forest thinned as the terrain grew steeper, rocky slopes replacing the dense underbrush. Just when he thought he had found some peace, another rustling noise reached his ears.


    Yi Lian stopped in his tracks, his senses on high alert. This time, he didn''t hide. His gaze turned toward the sound, calm but ready.


    A wild boar burst from the underbrush, its beady eyes locking onto him. For a moment, the air hung heavy with tension. Then, without warning, the boar charged.


    Yi Lian''s instincts kicked in once again. He sprinted toward the nearest tree and scrambled up with practiced ease. His breath came fast but steady, his pulse pounding as the boar rammed into the tree with a bone-rattling thud. The trunk shook violently with each impact.


    The boar refused to relent. It circled the tree, grunting in frustration as it slammed its head into the bark again and again. Its determination was terrifying.


    Yi Lian clung tightly to the branch, his eyes never leaving the creature below. Patience. Wait it out.


    Minutes stretched into what felt like hours. The boar eventually grew tired. With a final snort, it turned and lumbered back into the shadows of the forest. Yi Lian waited a little longer, his body tense, before carefully climbing down.


    His eyes scanned his surroundings once more. Only when he was certain it was safe did he breathe a sigh of relief.


    He adjusted his clothes and continued. His steps were quieter, more cautious than before. Every rustle of leaves made him tense, but he pushed on.


    By the time he reached the base of the mountain, the sun hung low in the sky. The air was cooler here, the ground firm beneath his feet. He paused, taking in the sight¡ªa vast expanse of jagged cliffs and winding paths disappearing into the mist.


    For the first time in what felt like ages, a faint smile tugged at his lips. Despite everything, he had made it. This mountain would be his sanctuary¡ªa place where he could meditate in peace and begin a new chapter of his journey.


    With renewed resolve, Yi Lian began his ascent, ready to build a home high above the chaos below. He would no longer merely survive. He would thrive.

 chapter 23 : Return to the Light

    The cave was dark and silent, wrapped in an eternal night. The only light came from the faint glow of the markings carved into the cave''s walls¡ªremnants of the trial Yi Lian had just endured. The air was thick and heavy, carrying the scent of damp stone and the earthy tang of moss that clung to the cracks in the rock. Drops of water occasionally fell from the ceiling, their rhythmic sound the only companion during his solitude. Time had blurred here, stretching endlessly in the shadows.


    Yi Lian sat cross-legged in the center of the cave, his body unmoving, eyes closed. His breath was slow and deliberate. His body felt weightless, yet the world seemed to press down on him, wrapping him in a cocoon of silence. After 108 days without food or water, his senses had dulled and adapted to the void around him. His once-sharp gaze was now deeper, distant¡ªeyes that no longer merely looked at the world, but through it, understanding it in ways words could not describe.


    Slowly, he opened his eyes. His vision struggled to adjust, and for a brief moment, he forgot what light even looked like. As the dim glow of the cave walls came into focus, he noticed movement at the mouth of the cave. A familiar figure emerged from the shadows¡ªa long, golden-scaled serpent, its body gleaming faintly as it glided toward him.


    Baoyu.


    Yi Lian''s voice was calm and steady as he spoke, though his curiosity was evident. "Baoyu¡­ what brings you here?"


    The snake slithered closer, its amber eyes catching the faint light as they locked onto Yi Lian''s. The smooth, silent movement of his body gave an almost ethereal quality to his presence.


    "You''ve grown," Baoyu said, his voice deep and measured, carrying an air of ancient authority. "Your gaze is different¡ªclearer, though a little¡­ haunted. The Trial of Will changes everyone. You''ve done well to endure it."


    Yi Lian stood slowly, his body stiff from days of meditation. His movements were deliberate, like one rediscovering his body after a long absence. His eyes remained on Baoyu. "Thank you, Senior. I didn''t expect to see you again so soon. What was the reason for your visit?"


    Baoyu paused, tilting his head slightly as if studying him. His tone was still formal, yet a faint smile tugged at the edges of his words. "It''s rare to meet someone who passes the trial, let alone someone who steps out of it¡­ different. I was curious to see how much you''ve changed."


    Yi Lian frowned slightly, his instincts urging him to maintain respect. "I see. I am grateful for your concern, Senior."


    Baoyu chuckled softly. "See? Isn''t that much better? I don''t care for all those honorifics and lofty titles. Speak to me like we''re equals. You''ve earned the right."


    Yi Lian hesitated, his eyes narrowing. "You¡­ want me to speak to you like an equal?" It felt unnatural, almost inappropriate, given Baoyu''s ancient presence and power. His instincts told him this was another test.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Baoyu smirked, his tone growing warmer, almost casual. "Yes, exactly. You''ve passed the trial. It''s only fair. Don''t make it weird."


    Yi Lian remained silent for a moment, processing the sudden change. His thoughts churned¡ªIs this some kind of trick? Or another test?


    "You don''t have to be so guarded," Baoyu said with a hint of amusement. "Relax. I can hear your thoughts as clearly as if you were speaking them aloud."


    Yi Lian''s expression hardened as he wrapped his spiritual energy around himself, forming a subtle barrier to block his thoughts from leaking out. His voice was calm, yet firm. "Don''t try to pry into my thoughts again."


    Baoyu snorted, clearly amused. "Smart. Good. You''re learning." He turned, his body coiling slightly before gesturing with his head. "Follow me. There''s something you need to see."


    Yi Lian''s brows furrowed. "Where are you taking me?"


    "Does it matter?" Baoyu called back, already moving toward the entrance. "You''ve been sitting in the dark for long enough. It''s time to walk."


    The sunlight outside was blinding after so long in the darkness. Yi Lian raised a hand to shield his eyes, allowing them to adjust. When his vision finally cleared, the world before him took his breath away¡ªa vast expanse of lush forest and jagged mountains stretching into the horizon.


    Baoyu waited on a large rock at the edge of a cliff, his golden body catching the sunlight like liquid gold. The view was breathtaking, but Yi Lian barely noticed it. His focus remained on Baoyu, who seemed unusually relaxed, basking in the warmth of the day.


    "You''ve changed," Baoyu said, his eyes fixed on the distant mountains. "Not just physically. Something inside you is¡­ different."


    Yi Lian folded his arms. "Spending 108 days in darkness can change anyone."


    "True," Baoyu admitted. "But that''s not what I meant. You''ve accepted something¡ªsomething most people spend lifetimes running from."


    Yi Lian said nothing, his thoughts guarded. He wasn''t ready to reveal what he had come to understand during the trial. Not yet.


    "So, what now?" Yi Lian asked, his tone neutral.


    Baoyu chuckled, the sound low and almost mischievous. "Now? Now we walk, and I tell you a little more about what''s to come. The trial is just a step, not the end. There are things you must see, things you must learn¡­ and decisions you must make. The legacy of those who came before you is still out there, waiting to be discovered."


    Yi Lian''s expression darkened. "The guardians who came before me¡­ they all fell, didn''t they? What caused their downfall?"


    Baoyu''s eyes turned serious, his playful tone vanishing. "Some were hunted. Others fell to their own desires. The book you carry is a beacon. It draws attention¡ªdangerous attention¡ªfrom forces you aren''t ready to face."


    "The Void Cult?" Yi Lian asked.


    Baoyu nodded. "Among others. The world is vast, Yi Lian. Not everything in it is your enemy, but not everything is your ally either. Power alone won''t be enough to survive what''s coming."


    Yi Lian absorbed the warning in silence, the weight of it settling heavily on his shoulders.


    "Come," Baoyu said, his tone lightening once again. "Let''s continue. We''ve barely begun."


    Without waiting for a response, Baoyu moved ahead, his body gliding effortlessly over the uneven ground. Yi Lian followed, his thoughts racing with questions about what lay ahead.


    For the first time in a long while, uncertainty didn''t weigh him down¡ªit fueled him. He glanced at Baoyu and spoke with a newfound ease, dropping all formality.


    "Baoyu, what''s the real reason you''re here?"


    Baoyu smiled, his eyes gleaming with an unreadable light. "You''ll know soon enough."


    The wind whispered through the trees as they walked deeper into the unknown, leaving the cave¡ªand everything it represented¡ªfar behind.

 chapter 24 : The Hidden Layer of Reality

    Yi Lian followed Baoyu in silence, his footsteps soft and deliberate. The path they took wound through a dense forest, yet something felt different. It wasn''t the scenery¡ªthe same towering trees, the same faint scent of pine and damp earth lingered¡ªbut everything seemed more vivid, more alive. Each leaf pulsed with life, the wind carried an almost musical rhythm, and the distant chirping of birds resonated in his chest like a gentle hum.


    His gaze wandered, absorbing everything with newfound clarity. It felt as though a veil had been lifted from the world, revealing a hidden layer of existence. Colors were richer, sounds clearer. Even the air felt heavier, vibrating with energy he couldn''t explain.


    Lost in thought, Yi Lian''s steps slowed. He marveled at it all¡ªthis newfound connection to the world around him. It wasn''t something he could put into words; it simply was.


    Baoyu''s voice broke the silence, snapping him back to the present. "Why are you so lost in thought?" the serpent asked, his tone puzzled.


    Yi Lian blinked, glancing at Baoyu. Strangely, he didn''t feel irritated at being interrupted. Instead, he replied calmly, "Because... I''m seeing the world at a deeper level. It''s like a hidden layer of life has revealed itself. Everything feels so vivid, so... fascinating."


    Baoyu chuckled softly, his golden scales catching the dappled sunlight. "Fascinating, is it?" His amber eyes gleamed with curiosity. "What''s so fascinating about the environment that it could draw you in so completely?"


    Yi Lian hesitated, confusion flickering across his face. "Don''t you see the world like this, at a deeper level, after advancing to the level you''re at?"


    Baoyu shook his head with a slight smile. "No. Not all who cultivate see the world the same way. Everyone has different dreams to pursue, different goals that guide them. Even the most ordinary traveler walking down a road may see a different world from the person beside him. What you''re experiencing now is unique to you."


    Yi Lian turned his gaze back to the path aheaad, his mind still lingering on Baoyu''s words. "Then¡­ if it''s different for everyone, does that mean cultivation alone isn''t the answer to understanding the world?"


    Baoyu let out a soft hum, as if pleased by the question. "Cultivation is just a tool. It sharpens your senses, strengthens your body, and expands your awareness¡ªbut it does not dictate what you see. That is determined by you." He glanced at Yi Lian, a hint of amusement in his golden eyes. "Perhaps, what you seek isn''t power, but perception."


    Yi Lian''s breath stilled. Perception? The word settled in his mind like a seed taking root. He had always assumed that higher realms led to greater understanding. But if power alone wasn''t the key, then what truly allowed one to see beyond the surface of the world?


    He had much to think about. Yi Lian furrowed his brows as he listened to Baoyu''s words, his mind grappling with their meaning.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "Perhaps what you see now is a reflection of your own path¡ªyour way of perceiving life shaping your reality. It happens to everyone, but not in the same way." Baoyu''s tone was calm, contemplative. "Some may see the world as nothing more than a cage, trapping them in an endless cycle of suffering. Others may see it as a place of learning, where emotions and experiences teach them things that even death cannot. And then there are those who believe life is just a series of accidents, leading to their existence with no greater meaning."


    Yi Lian remained silent, absorbing each word.


    "That doesn''t mean any of these perspectives are entirely right or wrong," Baoyu continued. "It''s simply how they see the world at that moment. And like all things, perspectives change. Life has a way of giving us reality checks. If our beliefs are flawed, it shows us the truth gently at first. But if we ignore it, it forces us to face reality in much harsher ways."


    Baoyu sighed, glancing at Yi Lian with an unreadable expression. "So don''t confine your thoughts. Let them flow, let them shift. The way you see the world today may not be the way you see it tomorrow."


    Yi Lian mulled over his words, a strange sense of understanding settling within him. Yet, something still bothered him. If what we see is real, why do we sometimes take the wrong path? He couldn''t accept it fully. It seemed foolish¡ªwhy would anyone willingly choose the wrong direction if they could see the truth?


    But he held his tongue. Everyone has different experiences, he reminded himself. What may seem wrong to me might have been the only choice for someone else. He had no right to force his own understanding onto others, especially when he hadn''t lived their lives.


    With that thought, he simply followed Baoyu in silence.


    After several minutes of walking, they arrived at a sight that made Yi Lian stop in his tracks.


    A colossal tree stood before them, its bark an ethereal shade of silver, its leaves shimmering like molten gold. It stretched impossibly high, its massive branches weaving through the sky like the hands of an ancient deity. The air around it felt dense¡ªcharged with something beyond mortal comprehension.


    Yi Lian''s breath hitched. How had I never noticed this before? Even from the mountain, he had never seen a tree like this. He quickly scanned the surroundings, realization dawning upon him.


    It''s hidden.


    The space around the tree was wrapped in powerful illusions. Unless guided here the right way, one would never even perceive its existence. It was as if the very fabric of the world had been bent to conceal this place.


    Seeing Yi Lian''s stunned expression, Baoyu smirked. "This is where I wanted to bring you. What do you think?"


    Yi Lian blinked, still processing what he was seeing. "It''s¡­ incredible." Then, confusion set in. "Wait¡­ you brought me all this way just to see a tree?"


    Baoyu scoffed, giving him a look that practically screamed Are you an idiot? "Of course not. There''s more to this place than meets the eye."


    With that, he approached the tree and placed a clawed hand against its bark. Strange symbols flickered across its surface as he whispered something Yi Lian couldn''t understand.


    A faint hum filled the air.


    Then, without warning, a portal opened in the center of the tree. A shimmering gateway of pure white light, pulsating with an otherworldly glow. Yi Lian instinctively stepped back, unable to see what lay beyond its threshold.


    Baoyu turned to him, his golden eyes glinting. "Follow me." And without hesitation, he stepped through the portal.


    Yi Lian hesitated. What is this place? Where does this lead? He didn''t understand what was happening, but the portal''s glow began to shrink.


    No time to think.


    Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward¡ªcrossing the threshold.


    At first, he felt nothing. No pull, no pressure, no shift in space.


    But then, as his eyes adjusted to the light, he saw what was waiting for him on the other side.


    And in that instant, shock rendered him completely speechless.

 chapter 25 : The Shadowed Council

    As I turned around and saw who was there, my breath caught in my throat. My eyes widened in both shock and pleasant surprise.


    "Master...?" My voice came out softer than I expected, laced with confusion and disbelief. The air around me suddenly felt heavier, as if the very space we occupied had changed with her arrival. Why was she here?


    I instinctively looked toward Baoyu for answers, my mind racing to piece together an explanation. My heartbeat pounded in my ears. What was happening? Why was Master here, and what did it mean? But Baoyu, noticing my questioning gaze, didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, he turned to look at Jing Xuan before speaking.


    "He has passed the Trial of Will."


    Master¡¯s expression hardened for a moment, her usual unreadable gaze settling upon me. Then, just as quickly, her face returned to its serene normalcy, though there was a flicker of something¡ªconcern?¡ªin her eyes. A barely audible sigh escaped her lips, lost in the vast emptiness around us.


    I finally took in my surroundings. It was a void of endless white, stretching infinitely in all directions. The silence was oppressive, thick and unbroken, as if sound itself had been swallowed by the abyss. The only thing breaking the monotony was a single round table in the middle, surrounded by chairs. Seated in one of those chairs was Master Jing Xuan. The stillness of the place made me feel like an intruder in a dream.


    Before I could gather my thoughts and ask what was going on, Master rose from her seat, her robes flowing like waves in still water. "Let¡¯s talk first," she said, her tone final. "Then we begin."


    Baoyu, understanding her words, started to dissipate into light fragments. But before completely vanishing, his voice echoed one last time, carrying a cryptic warning.


    "Once I open it, be quick. They will know. They will come."


    A cold shiver ran down my spine. The weight of his words settled heavily in my chest, pressing against my ribs. They? Who are they? I wanted to ask, but Baoyu was already gone, leaving behind only the fading echoes of his words. The void seemed even quieter without him, and for a brief moment, I felt truly alone.


    Master¡¯s gaze lingered on the space where Baoyu had been before shifting back to me. I could see the weight of something unspoken behind her eyes¡ªan unshakable certainty, a burden she had carried alone.


    "It¡¯s alright," she said calmly, her voice carrying an eerie sense of finality. "It will all be over in a minute."


    A part of me wanted to protest¡ªto demand answers now¡ªbut I knew better. Master was not someone who spoke in riddles without purpose. If she told me to wait, it was because the answers were coming.


    Still, frustration bubbled inside me. First, Baoyu left me with questions, and now Master was doing the same. The silence stretched, and my mind filled with a hundred different possibilities, each one darker than the last. But I clenched my fists and swallowed my irritation. Instead, I nodded and followed as she turned away and walked forward.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    She didn¡¯t look back as she spoke. "You have questions. I know. You want to ask why I am here, what the Trial Ground is, and who the people Baoyu mentioned are. I will tell you. But how much you understand¡ªthat is up to you."


    I stayed silent, focusing on her every word, my breath steady but tight in my chest.


    "First, know this¡ªI have been here since the day I dropped you into this world."


    I froze mid-step. "What?" My voice barely left my lips, yet it echoed strangely in the void, as if the space itself refused to let the words fade away.


    "Yes," she confirmed, glancing at me briefly before continuing. "I left you here knowing what you are¡ªthe Guardian of the Book for this generation. This place is sacred to all Guardians, and it is where they must stay until they complete the Trial Ground. Only after passing it can they step into the outside world. It is a place of growth and protection."


    Guardian of the Book. Those words rang in my mind like a bell tolling in an empty hall. Something deep inside me stirred, an unexplainable weight pressing against my soul, as if I had always known but had chosen to forget.


    "Once you leave this place, all cults will come after you like mad beasts. The previous Guardian, too, passed the Trial Ground, but even they could not escape the pursuit of those cults. The book was lost after their death."


    I felt my heart tighten. The book... that small, unassuming book I had found in the village. It had always felt important, but now I realized just how crucial it was. It had cost someone their life.


    Master stopped walking, turning to face me directly. "I am a member of the Sanctum Keepers. Baoyu is one of us as well. We exist to protect the Guardian and the Book. But there is a reason I have kept you hidden from the others."


    There was a brief pause, and her gaze sharpened.


    "There is a mole among us."


    The words struck like a blade to my gut. My breath hitched, my body tensing as the full weight of her statement sank in. A traitor. Someone within the Sanctum Keepers had betrayed the previous Guardian, leading to their death. And now... I was next.


    Master continued, "The Void Cult discovered that village before we even did. They knew the book was there. But how? How could they have known unless someone told them? That is why I did not tell the others about you. Baoyu and I decided it was safest to keep you hidden until you passed the trial."


    My thoughts swirled like a storm. The book. The village. The betrayal. I had been caught in something far bigger than I ever realized.


    Seeing my expression, Master placed a hand on my shoulder. Her touch was light, but grounding. "Do not let fear cloud your judgment. Once you enter the Trial Ground, they cannot touch you."


    Her words reassured me, but only slightly. "And if I fail?"


    She looked me straight in the eye, her voice steady and unyielding. "Then you will die."


    I swallowed hard. There was no sugarcoating, no false comfort. Just reality. I nodded, pushing away the fear clawing at my chest.


    Master turned and walked forward again, her pace unwavering. The air around us grew heavier with each step, charged with an unseen force. A distant hum reverberated through the space, a low, ancient sound that made my skin prickle. After a few minutes, she finally stopped and spoke.


    "We¡¯re here."


    I looked ahead, and my breath hitched. Before us stood an enormous gateway, ancient and alive with an unknown power. The air crackled around it, the very fabric of space bending slightly at its edges. Strange symbols covered its surface, shifting and rearranging themselves like a living entity. A pulse ran through the structure, faint yet commanding, as if waiting for something¡ªor someone.


    "This is the entrance to the Trial Ground," Master said, her voice solemn. "Once you step inside, there is no turning back. The trial will test not just your strength but your will, your mind, and your very soul."


    I exhaled slowly, my hands clenching into fists. "What do I have to do?"


    Master gave me a rare, small smile¡ªone that held the weight of both trust and expectation. "Survive."


    And with that, the gateway began to open.

 chapter 26 : The Guardian鈥檚 Journey

    Jing Xuan¡¯s Perspective


    As Yi Lian stepped through the ethereal gateway, I found my gaze unwavering. The weight of the moment settled within me, heavy as the ancient air that enveloped us. I had watched him for so long, and now, here he was, crossing the threshold of the Trial Grounds. The gateway responded to his presence, hums of ancient energy reverberating through the very fabric of this place. Its once-dormant symbols on the gate glowed brighter, as if acknowledging his arrival. The immense doors began to close, slow and deliberate, sealing the path between the realms.


    A gust of energy rippled through the air, and the dust around us swirled as the gate finally sealed itself. In that instant, there was no more trace of the passage, as if it had never existed. The air stilled, and for a brief moment, everything fell into silence.


    It was at that moment that Baoyu materialized before me, her golden eyes catching the last remnants of the gate¡¯s fading light. She was calm, collected, as always. But I could feel her presence shift in the air, a subtle change, like a ripple in still water. Without a word, she stood by my side.


    Just then, a crack formed in the space around us. The energy, thick and palpable, quivered under the pressure of new arrivals. I had no surprise in me¡ªonly a quiet knowing. The Trial Grounds was never a place to be visited lightly.


    From the rift emerged three women and four men, each radiating their own formidable aura. I had expected them, and still, I couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of their collective power.


    Lirien and Sylvaine were the first to approach, their faces softening as they met my gaze. There was a warmth in their eyes, an understanding that made me feel at ease despite the presence of so many others. Lirien¡¯s emerald eyes gleamed with a mischievous smile, while Sylvaine¡¯s gaze was steady and knowing. The years we had spent together had cemented our bond, and I found comfort in their silent solidarity.


    Naeris, however, was the opposite¡ªdistant, impassive. She only nodded in greeting, her eyes sharp and calculating.


    The two men that followed, Zephiron and Veyron, exchanged looks, clearly perplexed by the situation. Their expressions were tinged with confusion, and I could see the faint furrow of their brows. Zephiron spoke first, his voice laced with both curiosity and mild reproach.


    ¡°Jing Xuan,¡± he said, his tone a mixture of surprise and concern. ¡°You opened the Trial Grounds... without consulting us?¡±


    His words hung in the air, a challenge and a question all in one.


    Lucian, of course, showed no interest in the matter. As always, he wore an air of indifference, already turning away to seek something of more immediate interest to him. His sigh was the kind one gives when they¡¯re burdened by the weight of someone else¡¯s expectations. I knew he would leave the moment his curiosity was satisfied.


    Then there was Caelum¡ªas ever, he stood apart from the rest, his violet eyes gleaming with that infuriatingly smug smirk. He carried the air of someone who believed himself to know all the answers. His arrogance was something I could never quite tolerate, yet I had to admit, there was a certain brilliance in the way he saw the world.


    The silence stretched on, thick and heavy, as I observed them all. Finally, Baoyu broke it.


    "Let¡¯s discuss this elsewhere," she said, her voice smooth as silk. Though she didn¡¯t specify where, we all understood the direction she was taking. I nodded, my own thoughts steady.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    I turned to my old friends, Lirien and Sylvaine. Their understanding gazes met mine, and without further words, I conjured a portal.


    One by one, we stepped through, leaving the Trial Grounds behind. I could feel their eyes on me, a mixture of curiosity, concern, and expectation. The journey ahead would not be easy for any of us, least of all Yi Lian.


    Yi Lian¡¯s Perspective


    The moment I crossed through the gate, the first thing I noticed was the air. It was thick, damp with a peculiar metallic scent that seemed to hang in the atmosphere. It felt heavy, almost as though the air itself was saturated with unseen power. I swallowed hard, the pressure building within me. The world beyond the gate was unlike anything I had felt before, a strange energy pulsing beneath my skin, both foreign and familiar.


    Then I saw it¡ªa blur of motion in the distance.


    Before I could react, a creature lunged at me from the shadows. Its sleek, azure fur shimmered in the dim light, and its sharp, gleaming fangs aimed directly at me. Azure Fang Hare, the system identified. A body-strengthening realm beast.


    In a split second, my instincts kicked in. My body moved on its own, dodging the beast''s powerful strike with a leap to the side. The wind from its leap brushed against me, its claws narrowly missing my skin.


    I paused, feeling the surge of energy flowing through me. My mind, clearer now after the deep meditation, felt sharper. The system¡¯s presence in my mind stirred once again. But this time, I was hesitant. I had been avoiding relying on it, unsure of whether I could trust its responses.


    "Why didn¡¯t you respond before?" I demanded, my voice sharp, tinged with suspicion.


    The system¡¯s reply was as cryptic as ever.


    ¡°At my current stage, I was unable to function when you¡­ tore yourself apart. I was only at the first level. My focus was on sealing the damage you caused. It took precedence to prevent further consequences.¡±


    The words hit me harder than I expected. The system wasn¡¯t omnipotent. It had limitations. It followed a set of rules, and at that moment, my actions had put its primary functions to the test. It wasn¡¯t the all-knowing ally I had hoped for. I filed that information away for later¡ªonce I accumulated more Creation Points, perhaps I could upgrade it to be more useful.


    The hare, undeterred by its failed attack, began to circle back, its eyes burning with a primal hunger.


    I was ready.


    This time, I was prepared to fight.


    With a focused thought, I summoned a long, sturdy staff into my hand. The energy flowed through me, but this time, it wasn¡¯t the strange power of the world¡ªit was something deeper, something that resonated with the core of my being. My staff shimmered in the dim light, its power rooted in my soul, in my very existence.


    The Azure Fang Hare lunged once more, but this time, I didn¡¯t dodge. I swung my staff with controlled precision. The beast never had a chance.


    It crumpled to the ground, lifeless.


    I stood frozen for a moment, the adrenaline still buzzing in my veins. The ease with which I had felled the beast was unsettling. It had been a body-strengthening realm beast, yet I had defeated it without much effort. Was this my true strength? I questioned, but the answer was elusive.


    As I pondered this, the sound of rustling leaves broke through my thoughts. My senses heightened, and before I could react, a Shadow Moth descended from the darkness. A creature of stealth, it relied on surprise attacks. It was a peak body-strengthening realm beast, and it was fast¡ªmuch faster than the hare.


    The moth¡¯s wings beat with a faint hum, its shadowy form almost invisible against the backdrop of the night. It moved with a terrifying precision.


    I reacted just in time, deflecting its ambush with a quick thrust of my staff. The moth recoiled, its wings fluttering in anger. It wasn¡¯t finished yet.


    Through the haze of battle, I realized something important¡ªthe creatures in this trial weren¡¯t here just to test my strength. They were here to test my awareness, my patience. They were teaching me that strength alone wouldn¡¯t be enough.


    I took a deep breath, centering myself.


    In the distance, I could hear the rustling of leaves, the faintest sound of something larger moving through the dense underbrush. It was then that I knew¡ªI couldn¡¯t rely on sheer force alone. This trial would test my mind as much as my body.


    I found a large hollow tree, its opening narrow but just wide enough for me to slip inside. I closed my eyes, shutting out the chaos of the world around me. My senses expanded, reaching out.


    The silence was deafening.


    Then, ever so faintly, I heard it. The movement of unseen creatures. The shifting of leaves. The distant sounds of something much larger prowling deeper in the forest.


    A shiver ran down my spine.

 chapter 27 : Fangs in the Dark

    The moment I stepped into the hollow of the tree, the Shadow Moth lurking outside reacted instantly. Its glowing, eerie eyes locked onto mine as it rushed toward me, its wings beating violently against the air, creating a gust of wind that rustled the dried leaves around me. Its movements were sharp yet unrefined, a creature driven purely by instinct.


    Without hesitation, I materialized my staff, its familiar weight grounding me amidst the growing tension. My grip tightened, my body tensed, and I positioned myself for the impending strike.


    As soon as the moth reached the entrance, I hurled my staff forward with precision. The weapon whistled through the air, cutting through the dim light of the forest. Though the moth registered the incoming attack, its body, limited by its cultivation level, failed to react in time. The staff struck it squarely in the head with a sickening crack, sending it hurtling backward. It collapsed onto the damp forest floor, twitching briefly before falling still.


    I exhaled sharply, but before I could catch my breath, a chorus of shrill screeches echoed through the trees. My senses flared with alarm. A dozen more Shadow Moths, their dark silhouettes merging with the dense foliage, surged toward the tree. The air grew heavy with their combined aura, the pressure pressing against my chest like a looming storm.


    Unlike the first moth, these were larger, their bodies exuding a more potent energy. Their presence alone sent a shiver down my spine. A quick appraisal revealed their strength¡ªmid and peak-stage Essence Gathering Realm. With their combined power, they could pose a threat even to a low Energy Transformation Realm cultivator.


    A direct confrontation inside the hollow would be suicidal. There was no space to maneuver, no room to evade their swarming attacks. Staying here meant certain death.


    I sprang into action, stepping out of the tree¡¯s confines and into the open. The moths shrieked again, their crimson eyes glowing with malice as they followed my movement. My fingers tightened around my staff as I took a defensive stance, bracing for battle.


    Even though I could refine spiritual energy to create my staff, my body was still at the level of a mortal. Unlike these creatures, I couldn''t rapidly heal from wounds. The only way I could compensate was by selectively enhancing my body functions using spiritual energy¡ªbut that required careful control. I could boost my strength, speed, or endurance, but never all at once.


    This was going to be a grueling fight.


    I took a deep breath, then darted behind the tree, seeking the cover of its shadow. The moths, seeing me retreat, immediately gave chase, their wings producing a low, droning hum that vibrated through my bones.


    The first one rounded the tree, its claws extended, aiming straight for me.


    I pivoted sharply and swung my staff with all my strength, channeling a burst of spiritual energy into the strike. The impact sent a tremor up my arms as the staff connected with the moth¡¯s head, crushing it with a dull thud. The creature let out a garbled screech before crashing onto the ground, twitching in its final moments.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    But I had no time to celebrate.


    The rest of the moths split into two groups, flanking me from both sides. My mind raced. If they attacked from multiple angles, I wouldn¡¯t be able to defend properly. I needed to shift the battlefield in my favor.


    I took off in a sprint, moving around the tree to force them into a tighter formation. As expected, they followed, their movements frenzied. I turned sharply, dropping low to avoid a pair of snapping mandibles, then countered with a swift upward strike, sending another moth tumbling.


    But the drain on my spiritual energy was becoming apparent. My breathing grew heavier, and my arms ached from the repeated exertion. Unlike cultivators in the Energy Transformation Realm, I couldn¡¯t freely circulate energy throughout my body¡ªI had to channel it in bursts, and the strain was already catching up to me.


    I needed to end this quickly.


    Steeling myself, I shifted my focus, pouring energy into my legs. A burst of power surged through me, and I propelled forward at an unnatural speed, bypassing the next wave of incoming attacks. Using this momentum, I spun mid-air and brought my staff crashing down onto another moth. The force of the impact sent a shockwave rippling through the air, and two nearby moths recoiled from the pressure alone.


    Their formation was breaking.


    Sensing the shift in battle, the remaining moths hesitated. I could see it in their erratic movements¡ªtheir instincts screamed danger. I had to capitalize on that moment of uncertainty.


    I surged forward, relentless. My staff became a blur, each strike calculated and precise. Another moth collapsed, then another. Their numbers dwindled, their once overwhelming advantage crumbling before my counteroffensive.


    Until only one remained.


    It hovered just beyond my reach, its wings trembling. A flicker of intelligence flashed in its glowing eyes as it assessed its fallen kin. For a moment, I thought it might retreat.


    Then, with a final, piercing screech, it lunged at me in desperation.


    I didn¡¯t back down.


    Planting my feet firmly, I met its charge head-on, swinging my staff in a wide arc. The final blow landed with a resounding impact, and the moth crumpled mid-air, its lifeless body falling to the ground with a dull thud.


    Silence settled over the battlefield. My heavy breaths were the only sound amidst the stillness. The aftermath of the fight sank in¡ªmy arms ached, my legs felt sluggish, and the last remnants of my spiritual energy flickered weakly inside me.


    I had won.


    But I couldn¡¯t stay here any longer. The sounds of battle, the scent of blood¡ªthese would attract more beasts. I couldn¡¯t afford another fight in my current state.


    Without hesitation, I retreated into the hollow of the tree, sinking onto the rough bark, exhaustion weighing me down. I closed my eyes, slowing my breathing, beginning the process of meditation to recover my depleted energy.


    Yet, as I sat in silence, my thoughts churned.


    This fight had made one thing painfully clear¡ªI was still weak. I could barely fight a low Energy Transformation Realm beast or cultivator. Against anything stronger, I would die.


    I had to grow stronger quickly. If I didn¡¯t, the beasts within this trial would eventually consume me. My ability to refine spiritual energy with a mortal body gave me an edge, but it wasn¡¯t enough. I needed more than this.


    I needed knowledge that would help my body become stronger.


    Reaching into my belongings, I pulled out the ancient book I had obtained earlier. If I wanted to survive, I had to learn. Mantras, techniques¡ªanything that could give me an advantage.


    With that thought, I focused on the text before me, determined to carve my path forward.


    Because in this trial, hesitation meant death.

 Chapter 28 : Carving a Path Through Hardship

    As I opened the book after passing the Trial of Will, five paths were revealed before me. The first four, though powerful, did not offer immediate results. In my current state, where survival depended on strength, I had no time to waste. If I didn''t grow stronger quickly, I would be dead before I had the chance to explore the other paths.


    Thus, I chose the fifth path¡ªthe **Path of the Body**.


    According to the text, by performing specific body postures in sync with pr¨¡?¨¡y¨¡ma, I could temper my body and refine its strength. However, the process was not without its dangers. If I lacked the will to endure the pain, I would never complete it. But hesitation wasn''t an option¡ªI had no other way out.


    The book warned that if the breathing and poses were not synchronized, not only would the body strengthening slow down, but the pain could become unbearable. The key was perfect harmony between breath and movement.


    I scanned the poses carefully and immediately realized a problem¡ªI couldn''t practice them here. The hollow inside the tree was too narrow, restricting my movements. Worse still, without any form of protection, if a beast attacked mid-training, I wouldn''t even have the chance to react before being torn apart.


    First, I needed to ensure my safety.


    Sitting down, I began practicing pr¨¡?¨¡y¨¡ma, regulating my breath to recover my spiritual energy. After recovering the energy, I enhanced my hearing, amplifying the smallest sounds around me to detect any approaching beasts. Only after confirming that there were no threats nearby did I cautiously step out of the hollow.


    Even though my hearing assured me the area was clear, I cross-checked once more, scanning my surroundings for any hidden dangers. Seeing no signs of movement, I finally allowed myself a moment of relief.


    Still, I couldn''t abandon this hiding spot¡ªit was the perfect shelter. However, leaving it as it was would be too risky. If another beast found it, I would have nowhere to retreat. I needed to expand the space and conceal it properly, either by blocking the entrance with a boulder or using tree trunks to reinforce it.


    But first, there was another issue to deal with.


    The corpses of the moths lay scattered around, their blood soaking the ground. If left as they were, they would attract even more predators. I gathered the bodies into a single pile far from my location, ensuring that if a beast came drawn by the scent, it would be toward that location rather than my shelter. As for the blood already spilled on the ground, I left it as it was, knowing it would be less attractive than the pile of corpses.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    After finishing this task, I looked down at my clothes. They were battered from the fight, torn in places, but still good enough for now. With a sigh, I turned back to the hollow tree and focused my spiritual energy. Carefully, I began to expand the space inside, making sure the structure remained intact. I needed enough room for movement, but I couldn''t afford for the tree to collapse.


    Once I was satisfied with the hollow''s size, I gathered stones and pebbles from nearby, sealing the entrance as best as I could. It wasn''t perfect, but it would provide some measure of protection. Only then did I prepare myself to begin the first steps of the **Path of the Body**.


    Just as I was about to start, a noise reached my ears¡ªmultiple beasts moving through the forest. My body tensed. I remained still, slowing my breath, focusing all my senses outward. The unease I felt deepened. Something was wrong.


    I waited, listening intently. The rustling grew louder, closer. My instincts screamed at me to stay hidden. From the faint vibrations in the ground, I could tell they were not ordinary beasts¡ªsomething much larger was approaching.


    Minutes passed like hours, my body motionless, sweat forming on my brow despite the cool night air. Then, a shadow loomed outside my hiding place. I held my breath.


    A deep, guttural growl resonated through the forest.


    My heart pounded against my ribs. The beast was massive. I dared not peek, but from the sound alone, I knew this creature was leagues above anything I had faced so far. Its heavy footsteps reverberated through the earth, and then¡ªsilence.


    Was it gone? Or was it waiting?


    My breathing remained steady, controlled. I knew one wrong move could spell my death. I had to be patient.


    The silence stretched on. Then, as suddenly as it had come, the presence moved away. I exhaled slowly, quietly, waiting a few moments longer before daring to move. When I was sure the danger had passed, I allowed myself a brief moment of relief.


    This world was merciless.


    I couldn''t afford to be careless. If I wanted to survive, I had to grow stronger¡ªand fast.


    Regaining my focus, I shifted into the first stance. The pain began almost immediately, sharp and deep, coursing through my muscles like fire. Every breath had to be deliberate, synchronized perfectly with my movements. Sweat dripped from my forehead as I endured, refusing to yield.


    Hours passed. My body trembled, exhausted, but I pressed on. Each motion was slow, controlled, designed to push my limits. The agony became a companion, whispering to me of my frailty, of my weakness. But I ignored it. I had suffered worse. I had endured more.


    Breathe in. Hold. Move. Exhale.


    Every motion felt like tearing apart my muscles and reforging them anew. I understood now why this method was called a **path**. It wasn''t merely about strengthening the body; it was about breaking through limitations, one breath, one movement at a time.


    At some point, my mind drifted, consumed by the rhythm of pain and breath. Memories flickered in my mind¡ªof battles fought, of trials endured, of the moment I first opened this book. Each choice had led me here, to this point, where I was no longer just a disciple seeking power but a man forging himself anew.


    The sky outside was beginning to brighten. Dawn.


    I collapsed to my knees, gasping for air. My body was drenched in sweat, my muscles screaming in protest, but beneath the pain, I felt something else¡ªa quiet, undeniable strength beginning to take root.


    I had taken my first steps on the **Path of the Body**.


    And I would not stop until I mastered it.

 Chapter 29 : Forged in Isolation

    After a short break to catch my breath, I clenched my wrist, feeling the newfound strength coursing through my body. It was undeniable¡ªI had grown stronger than yesterday. My muscles, once weak and untested, now carried a hardened resilience. I was only at the initial stage of the Path of Body, with three more levels ahead: mid, peak, and perfect. Right now, my techniques were still basic, merely laying the foundation. But once I reached the perfect stage, a new world of advanced training would open before me.


    I exhaled sharply, exhaustion pressing down on me. The pain from my relentless training clung to my body, a dull ache that refused to fade. But instead of diving straight back into practice, I sat cross-legged and began pr¨¡?¨¡y¨¡ma, drawing in slow, controlled breaths to restore my depleted will. My mind wavered between focus and fatigue, but I forced myself to continue. Only when strength returned to my limbs did I rise and resume training.


    A Month of Pain and Progress


    This grueling cycle continued for an entire month.


    Day after day, I pushed past my limits, ignoring hunger, pain, and the crushing silence of isolation. My body trembled under the strain, yet I refused to stop. At times, doubt whispered in my mind.


    Was this truly the right path? Could I endure this forever?


    Each time, I crushed those thoughts and pressed on.


    With each passing day, I could feel my strength becoming more refined. My body adapted to the harsh conditions, my strikes becoming sharper, my footwork steadier. The once unbearable exhaustion became manageable. My breath control, honed through pr¨¡?¨¡y¨¡ma, allowed me to endure longer.


    Still, my progress began to slow.


    Where I once advanced swiftly, now each step forward required twice the effort. If reaching the peak of the initial stage took a month, then the mid-stage might take another month. The next stage¡­ could take twice as long¡ªor longer. The path ahead stretched endlessly, daunting yet irresistible.


    But there was something more pressing.


    I had to leave.


    Leaving the Shelter


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The hollowed tree had served as my shelter, but it was never meant to be a permanent refuge. Beasts lurked outside, their growls and heavy footfalls a constant reminder of the dangers beyond. Some had already tested my defenses, clawing at the entrance, slamming against the fragile cover. More than once, I had to brace the barrier with my own body to keep them out.


    My spiritual energy helped reinforce it, but I knew the truth¡ªstaying here too long meant becoming prey.


    Now, things were different. I was stronger.


    A month ago, I struggled against even a low Energy Transformation beast. Now, I could face a mid-stage one without faltering. That alone was proof of my growth.


    Determined, I began removing the rocks and pebbles blocking the entrance. As I stepped out of the hollow, the outside world greeted me like a forgotten memory. The sun¡¯s warmth spread across my skin¡ªa stark contrast to the damp cold I had grown used to. My eyes, accustomed to darkness, took a moment to adjust.


    The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and rotting leaves. A faint breeze carried the distant cries of unseen creatures. I scanned my surroundings, senses sharp. At the edge of my vision, movement flickered¡ªsmall beasts, watching, waiting.


    None strong enough to challenge me now.


    I took a deep breath, letting the untamed energy of the forest seep into my lungs.


    It was time to move forward.


    Deeper Into the Unknown


    Taking one last look at the place that had been both my prison and my refuge, I turned my back on it and ventured deeper into the forest. There had to be more here¡ªsomething beyond the book that had made the past Guardians strong.


    As I walked, I noticed a pattern.


    Most of the beasts I encountered were at the peak of the Essence Gathering realm. Occasionally, I spotted Energy Transformation realm beasts from a distance. Using Appraisal, I identified them before they noticed me and swiftly avoided their line of sight.


    The deeper I ventured, the stronger the beasts became.


    It was as if the land itself dictated that only the strong may advance.


    Eventually, I found myself in a territory where every beast I encountered was in the Energy Transformation realm. The air grew dense with spiritual energy, and the surroundings took on an almost mystical quality. Towering trees with luminous vines lined my path, their glow casting eerie shadows across the forest floor. Strange, unseen creatures rustled in the undergrowth, their presence both intriguing and menacing.


    The sheer density of energy here made me wonder¡ªwhat kind of beings lived even deeper?


    A Treasure Hidden in the Wild


    Then, amidst the thick vegetation, something caught my eye.


    Some plants emitted a faint glow, and beasts lingered near them, almost as if guarding a treasure. Curiosity piqued, I activated Appraisal¡ªand the results were revealing:


    [10-YEAR-OLD SPIRIT GRASS: A plant that has absorbed the world¡¯s essence for 10 years.]


    My breath hitched.


    This wasn¡¯t just any herb¡ªthis was a treasure. A magical plant capable of accelerating cultivation, valuable to both humans and beasts alike. If refined properly, it could provide a significant boost in strength.


    I had stumbled upon something invaluable.


    This forest held more than just danger¡ªit held the very resources that had made past Guardians strong. Their growth hadn¡¯t come from the book alone; the land itself had forged them into legends.


    But I wasn¡¯t the only one who understood the value of these resources.


    As I observed the Spirit Grass, I noticed movement. A shadow passed through the trees, its presence almost imperceptible. My instincts screamed at me to move. Without hesitation, I darted behind a tree, suppressing my breath.


    A moment later, the figure emerged.


    A beast¡ªlarger than any I had encountered so far. Mid-stage Energy Transformation. Its eyes glowed with intelligence, scanning the area as if it sensed my presence.


    Guardian beasts¡­


    The realization struck me. These plants weren¡¯t unprotected. The beasts guarded them.


    And I was now in their territory.


    My pulse steadied as I watched the creature. It wasn¡¯t attacking¡ªyet. I had a choice. I could retreat and return later, better prepared. Or¡­ I could test my strength against a real opponent.


    I flexed my fingers, feeling the weight of my training.

 Sorry

    Hey everyone,


    I just wanted to let you know that due to a high fever, I won''t be able to upload the chapters today as planned. I also haven''t had the chance to edit the drafts yet, so the update might be delayed until I''m feeling better. I''m really sorry for the wait ¡ª I know many of you have been eagerly anticipating it, but unfortunately, there''s not much I can do right now.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Over the past two weeks, I''ve been focusing on learning about foreshadowing and how to create suspense and mystery through worldbuilding, so once I''m back on track, I''ll be able to make the updates even more exciting!


    Thanks so much for your understanding, and I''ll see you soon. Once again, I''m really sorry for the delay. It won''t be more then two days. Bye!