《Lightning king》 Chapter 1 On a cloudy night, somewhere on Earth, a man stood on a balcony, the glow of his cigarette faint against the dark. He exhaled a plume of smoke into the still air and muttered to himself, "How boring." As if the dark clouds had been listening, a rumble of thunder rolled angrily in the distance. Then, with a blinding flash, lightning tore through the clouds ¡ª a sudden, final answer. The man''s life ended in a crackling blaze of light. .....,... Zeru kingdom Zeru city, Li family mansion The courtyard lay in ruins, a silent monument to a massacre. The stone ground, cracked and uneven, glistened with pools of fresh blood reflecting the pale light of a cloud-choked sky. The air was thick with the scent of iron and the faint, acrid tang of smoke. Bodies, twisted and lifeless, sprawled across the space¡ªwarriors who had fought, but in vain. In the center of it all stood a figure, an unsettling stillness surrounding them. Blood soaked every inch of their clothes, the crimson stains vivid against dark fabric. But none of it was their own. The figure''s eyes were cold, like shards of ice forged in some forgotten abyss, reflecting no pity, no remorse. They gazed over the scene of carnage with an emotionless intensity, as if searching for something¡ªor someone¡ªamid the slaughter.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. At their feet lay the broken body of an old man. His face, wrinkled and lined by the burdens of age, was locked in a mask of pain. Yet, even as his lifeblood pooled around him, his lips moved. The voice that came out wasn''t one of a dying elder, but of a youth barely past fifteen¡ªsoft, trembling with a mixture of fear and despair. "You will not get away.." he whispered, his eyes clouding over. As the word left him, his chest gave a final, shuddering rise, and he was still. The figure swiftly slipped the ring off the dead old man''s finger, its movements urgent and precise. Without a sound, it faded into the shadows, dissolving like mist on the wind. Only silence remained, as though the figure had never been there at all.. The courtyard was still once more. The lifeless body of the old man lay there, a stab wound carved directly into his heart. Time seemed to freeze, the weight of death pressing down on the air. Suddenly, a flash of violet split the heavens, and a bolt of purple lightning tore downward. It struck the old man''s corpse with an earsplitting crack. The body convulsed, jerking violently as if a marionette controlled by unseen hands. Fingers curled and uncurled, legs twitched, and the old man''s back arched unnaturally off the ground. The gaping wound in his chest began to close. Skin pulled itself together, Muscles reformed beneath the surface, and veins pulsated with renewed vigor. The color slowly returned to his pale, sunken cheeks, and his eyelids fluttered. The lightning dissipated, but the air still buzzed with an unnatural energy. The once-dead man''s chest now rose and fell in slow, shallow breaths. His eyes snapped open, and they were not the eyes of an old man¡ªthey were filled with confusion,fear and exhaustion He inhaled deeply to calm his terrified heart, looking around at the carnage before him as if to make sense of what has occured. Chapter 2 Pain! It felt like being struck on the head with a hammer. The unbearable sensation overwhelmed him, forcing him to lose consciousness once more. Shortly, his senses returned slowly, his thoughts fragmented and confused. "Where am I? No, that''s not it..." In the haze of contemplation, another, more pressing question arose in his mind. "Who am I?" Yes, that question felt more urgent. He clenched his fists, trying to ground himself in reality. "I am Jack," he thought, repeating the name to himself for reassurance. But then, confusion struck again. "Who is Yun Li? And why do I have memories of a life I have never experienced?" The dissonance of two identities coiling within his mind was suffocating. He lifted his head, his gaze darting around, trying to make sense of his surroundings. His breath hitched as his eyes widened in horror. The scene was straight out of a nightmare¡ªa courtyard drenched in blood, dismembered limbs strewn about, and corpses piled carelessly like discarded rags. He wanted to scream, but his throat tightened as panic seized him. Before he could make sense of it, A cold shiver ran down his spine, and time seemed to slow. Instinctively, he raised his hand to shield himself, and a sudden crackle of purple energy deflected something mid-air. Two needles clattered to the ground. Two shadowy figures approached, their voices sharp and urgent. Strangely, he understood their words. "A mere mortal managed to deflect my attack?" one hissed. "It must be the heavenly treasure," the other warned. Their intentions were clear, and a surge of adrenaline coursed through him. Without looking back, he ran¡ªfaster than any human should be capable of. The second figure''s eyes widened, disbelief crossing his face as if witnessing something unsual. But he shook off his disbelief.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. He turned to his companion, still in a daze of what currently occured. "What are you waiting for Lin meng? Quickly! Chase him! I''ll report to the sect about appearance of a heavenly treasure." Snapped back to reality, Wu Cheng nodded. "Understood, Senior Brother Lin Rou!" Without another word, he shot forward in pursuit. Jack''s POV A chill surged through my body, rising to a near unbearable intensity. I glanced back and locked eyes with my pursuer, who was already preparing another set of needles. Fear griped to my heart with thoughts of pain I am about to experience Suddenly, something welled up from deep within my chest¡ªa surge of energy that crackled and roared to life, purple lightning flickering across my body. Before I could fully grasp it, I felt myself transform, my body accelerating into a blur of pure speed. I leapt forward, the world around me stretching and blurring. When I dared to glance back again, the cloaked figure had stopped, the pursuit abandoned. He was now just a distant dot, shrinking until he finally disappeared from sight. ??? POV A figure streaked through the moonlit forest, his clothes torn and stained with blood¡ªnone of it his own. Behind him, several cloaked pursuers gave relentless chase. He cast a quick glance skyward and saw a flicker of purple lightning crackle in the distance, marking where he''d been just moments ago. His jaw tightened, and he clicked his tongue in frustration. Enraged, he surged forward, his pace unwavering, determined to escape. Suddenly, a figure appeared before him. "This is as far as you go, demon cultivator," the elder growled. The young man skidded to a halt, his red eyes gleaming dangerously as he drew a black sword. The old figure''s eyes narrowed, then he chuckled darkly. "A mere 4th realm Qi Cultivation dares to challenge a Foundation Establishment cultivator?" the old man sneered. "I''ll respect your courage." The old figure raised his sword unaffected. "Come at me," he said, his voice steady. The battle erupted with a clash of steel and surging energy. Both figures struck and parried, their skills blazing.The elder''s initial confidence waned as the fight dragged on. A hint of astonishment flickered in his eyes, quickly replaced by fear as he began to lose ground. Relentless trashing of sword gave the old figure no time to think. Finally, with a roar, the young man delivered a devastating strike, sending the elder hurtling through the air, crashing into the trees, and leaving him barely conscious. Few drops of blood escape the young man''s mouth seeing the the young man didn''t hesitate. He turned and continued his run, vanishing into the shadows. The wounded elder raised a trembling hand to stop his allies from pursuing. His eyes reflected both fear and pain. "No... It''s pointless to chase him. He''s stronger than me," he muttered, wincing. His gaze fell to the wound, where corruption spread visibly, the flesh darkening. "I need... treatment." His allies hesitated, then nodded, turning their attention to tending the fallen elder instead. In the distance, the young man disappeared, the night swallowing him whole. Chapter 3 Outskirts of zeru kingdom .. A figure staggered through the dense forest, cloaked in dim, flickering lightning. Exhaustion weighed heavily on their shoulders, each step more laborious than the last. Yet they pressed forward, drawn by the faint flicker of firelight in the distance. As they moved closer, the oppressive forest began to thin. The towering trees gave way to an open clearing, revealing a small hut standing alone beneath the starlit sky. Warm light spilled from its windows, a beacon of solace in the night. The figure pushed onward, but their body finally gave out. With a faint crackle of energy, they collapsed mere steps from the hut''s threshold. ...¡­.... Jack woke on what felt like a straw mat, sunlight streaming through a small window and casting warm beams across the simple, barren room. His body felt strangely light, as though a crushing weight had been lifted. The piercing headache that had plagued him for what felt like days was gone, leaving behind an unfamiliar clarity. For a moment, he lay there, staring at the ceiling, unsure whether he was dreaming or awake. Then, like an unrelenting tide, the memories of the previous day flooded back. He saw them again figures with inhuman abilities, defying all logic and reason . More importantly, he remembered the shocking moment when he, too, had displayed powers far beyond anything ordinary. A chilling realization soon dawned upon him: this was not the same world he had been born into. Somehow, he had been thrust into another world, one that was far more dangerous. It was a place where human life seemed to hold no value, and people could kill without hesitation At first, it felt surreal, like the premise of one of the many novels he''d devoured in his spare time. A protagonist transmigrated to another world, destined for greatness, power, and adventure. But reality hit harder as he recalled the events of the previous day, when he had barely escaped death for no apparent reason, Jack''s optimism faded.This wasn''t a fantasy tale where everything would fall into place. Here, he had narrowly escaped death, and that alone was proof enough of the harshness of this world. He couldn''t see himself as some kind of main character destined for greatness. No, this world was far too brutal for such fantasies. If anything, he might die like a dog in the streets. And that was the last thing he wanted¡ªto meet a meaningless, ignoble end.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. Panic and anger bubbled inside him. Who had done this to him? He wanted to deny his situation, to curse the powers that had torn him from his life. But the truth was undeniable, and eventually, he found himself forced to accept it.There was no going back, no way to undo what had been done. All he could do now was survive¡ªand ensure that his story didn''t end in despair. Taking a shaky breath, Jack pushed himself into a sitting position, crossing his legs. His gaze drifted around the room. Apart from the straw mat and the narrow window, it was empty. The sparse environment offered no answers, but his mind clung to one name: Yun Li. his thoughts were focussing on the pieces of memory that are in his head about someone name yun Li while trying to gain understanding of yun Li to understand his current Situation the door slowly open.That name echoed in his thoughts, a puzzle piece that refused to fit. Who was Yun Li? Why did it feel so significant? Before he could make sense of it, the door creaked open. A middle-aged woman stepped inside, carrying a bowl of soup. The rich, savory aroma wafted through the air, making Jack''s stomach growl loudly. But his hunger quickly turned to unease. Her cautious movements and the flicker of fear in her eyes immediately set Jack on edge. His body tensed, and without realizing it, faint purple arcs of energy began crackling across his skin, filling the room with a soft, ominous hum. The woman froze, her eyes wide with terror. The bowl slipped from her trembling hands, shattering on the ground. Jack instinctively tried to get up from his sitting position, but before he could, another figure burst into the room. It was a tall, burly man, his expression a mixture of alarm and desperation. He moved swiftly, positioning himself between Jack and the woman, shielding her with his broad frame. Then, to Jack''s shock, the man dropped to his knees, bowing so low that his forehead touched the ground. "I apologize for any disrespect, Immortal Master!" the man cried, his voice trembling. "Please, punish me instead!" Jack blinked, utterly bewildered. The crackling energy around him faded, leaving only silence in its wake. "Immortal... master?" Jack muttered under his breath. His confusion deepened, and he stared at the kneeling man, searching for answers in vain. One thing was certain: this world, and his place in it, was far more complicated than he could have ever imagined. Soon, he found himself dealing with another headache not from transmigrating, but from the precarious situation he was now in. Chapter 4 After a while¡­ Sitting cross-legged, Jack let out a deep sigh, his mind replaying the events of the past few hours. It all started with a misunderstanding. The people here thought he was a cultivator. The reason? The strange purple lightning that crackled around his body whenever he felt threatened. In this world, only cultivators could manipulate natural elements, and it seemed this lightning responded to his fear¡ªa fact proven in yesterday''s skirmish and today''s close call. But Jack knew the truth: he wasn''t a cultivator. At least, not by choice. Piecing together the memories of Yun Li, the body''s previous owner, had made that abundantly clear. Yun Li. Jack mulled over the name. That was who he had become after transmigration. Yun Li, once a first-rate martial artist, had reached the age of 100 a near expired old man. Yet when Jack gazed into the bowl of water before him, the reflection told a different story: a man in his prime, radiating vitality and strength. It all began to make sense. His transmigration had triggered Yun Li''s ascension into the Rebirth Realm, a stage of martial arts where one regained lost vitality and youthful vigor. The inhuman speed, feather-light movements, and immense physical strength Jack felt all were byproducts of this transformation. Delving deeper into Yun Li''s memories, Jack unraveled the man''s history. Yun Li had been the patriarch of the Li family in Zen City, a powerful martial arts clan. His life had ended violently at the hands of a red-eyed youth named Chen Ruin. The reason? Revenge. Yun Li''s great-grandson had tormented Chen Ruin mercilessly, driven by arrogance and unchecked power. Yun Li had known of his descendant''s cruelty but had chosen silence. Jack frowned. That silence made him complicit. Jack shook his head. The name Yun Li no longer carried any meaning for him. He wasn''t the head of a martial family , nor was he bound by the grudges of this world.He was Jack¡ªa salaryman from Earth. Why should he inherit this man''s grudges or play a part in this cross-world vendetta? Still, the knowledge Yun Li left behind was invaluable.He delved further into Yun Li''s memories, uncovering more details about the place he now inhabited. The land was called the Turtle Shell Continent, aptly named because the continent''s shape resembled a giant colossal turtle shell. Legends claimed the land had formed from an ancient turtle''s heavenly remains. Jack shook his head at the absurdity of the tale, dismissing it as folklore What interested him most were Yun Li''s memories of martial arts.A martial artist is a person who employs inner energy, or more precisely, vital energy. The martial arts hierarchy was divided into four grades: Martial Arts Hierarchy: [Grade 3 (Third-Rate Martial Artist): The foundation level for most practitioners.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Grade 2 (Second-Rate Martial Artist): Mastery beyond the basics. Grade 1 (First-Rate Martial Artist): Elite warriors, rare and highly skilled. Grade 0 (Rebirth Realm): The pinnacle of martial arts, where one''s body undergoes spiritual and physical rebirth.] There aren''t significant differences in inner energy levels among Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 martial artists. Inner energy remains relatively constant, although it can decrease due to factors such as injuries or age, as in the case of Yun Li. What sets martial artists of different grades apart are their experience, martial skills, physical condition, techniques, and, most importantly, their ability to achieve effective energy circulation. In short, while inner energy may serve as a constant foundation, the true might of a martial artist is determined by their mastery over energy circulation and the development of their physical and spiritual capabilities. Unlike the earlier grades, the Rebirth Realm unlocked immense power. Physical bodies transformed, meridians widened , strengthened dantian that can store and refine vastly greater amounts of inner energy and spiritual roots formed marking the threshold for Immortal Cultivation. Cultivators, unlike martial artists, were born with spiritual roots. For most, the only paths to forming them were: [ ''Achieving Rebirth through mastery of martial arts¡ªa near-impossible feat.''] [ ''Joining a sect and obtaining body refinement techniques. These were accessible only through tournaments held every ten years.''] Yun Li had pursued the second path but failed thrice and could not attemp a fourth time due to his age disqualifying him from further attempts. Now, Jack found himself in an unparalleled position, his transmigration granting him access to the Rebirth Realm. But power alone wasn''t enough. Without mastering martial techniques, Jack was no stronger than a Third-Rate Martial Artist in combat. And compared to Immortal Cultivators, even a fully realized Rebirth Realm master was insignificant. Still, this was his opportunity. His power. He wouldn''t waste it. As Jack clenched his fists. The power that had once been foreign and unfamiliar was beginning to feel like an extension of himself. He resolved that, in time, it would no longer be Yun Li''s legacy but his own. The creak of a door interrupted his thoughts. Jack''s gaze snapped to the barely open door. A small figure peeked through, meeting his eyes before retreating hastily. The sound of running footsteps echoed down the corridor. Curious, Jack stood and followed the sound, arriving in a cozy living room. A couple stood protectively in front of a small child. The man, Lin Ao, was tall and muscular, exuding a powerful presence. The woman, Shen Lin, had kind but wary eyes, her hands nervously fidgeting. Behind them, the child peeked out cautiously¡ªthe same one who had spied on Jack moments earlier. "Ah, you''re awake," Lin Ao said, his tone guarded. "We were worried you wouldn''t recover." Jack frowned slightly, sensing the tension in their voices. "Where am I?" he asked, scanning the room. Shen Lin spoke softly, "You''re in our home. We found you unconscious in the forest¡­ surrounded by purple lightning." The couple exchanged uneasy glances. "Thank you," Jack said evenly. "I owe you my life." For now, he would tread carefully.He clenched his fists. The strength Yun Li had sought his whole life was now his. Jack resolved to master it¡ªnot as Yun Li''s heir, but as a survivor determined to leave his mark on the Turtle Shell Continent. Chapter 5 Stepping outside, Jack breathed out, then inhaled deeply, drawing in a large amount of air. The air quality here is so pure not like the polluted mess it was in my previous world, he thought, feeling an exhilarating freshness course through his entire body. "No better time than now to practice," Jack muttered to himself. Jack adjusted his stance, spreading his legs shoulder-width apart for balance. He tightened his fists, his knuckles whitening as he focused his energy. With a quick inhale, he stepped forward, delivering a powerful straight punch with his right fist, the force of which seemed to part the air before him. Without hesitation, he followed it up with a left hook, twisting his hips to add momentum. Pivoting on his back foot, he unleashed an upward uppercut, his fist cutting through the stillness. Then, stepping back into his stance, he performed a rapid one-two jab, each strike sharp and deliberate. Jack paused for a moment, his breathing steady. A faint smile played on his lips. Each move feels better than the last. This body... it''s adapting. He continued the same moments and without jack realising it the sun had already reached its peak. Putting a stop to what he was doing. The walked towards the house Jack felt his stomach growl as he entered the house He saw shen Lin prepare lunch his stomach instantly starts to grumble hearing the growl shen Lin turned to meet her eyes with jack "Immortal master might be hungry after the training session would you like to have a bowl of rice" enquired shen lin Although jack felt guilty about taking advantage of the stranger kindness. But thinking about how he has no place to go he involuntary gave up and let out a sigh ''i will repay my piling up debt somehow'' as he "i would be happy have a bowl" Shen Lin smiled. Jack to sat at the low wooden table in the corner of the humble kitchen. The aroma of freshly cooked rice and simmering vegetables filled the air, making Jack''s stomach grumble even louder. "Please, sit, Immortal Master," Shen Lin said, placing a steaming bowl of rice and a plate of stir-fried vegetables before him. "I hope it suits your taste." Jack sat down, feeling a pang of guilt. He wasn''t sure how he''d earned the title "Immortal Master," but Shen Lin seemed to genuinely believe he was someone extraordinary. He gave up on trying to correct the misunderstanding He had tried once, awkwardly fumbling with words to explain that he wasn''t the person they thought he was. After all, how could he explain his sudden appearance in this world or the fact that only Immortal Masters were said to possess the ability to manipulate natural elements? "Thank you," Jack said sincerely, picking up the wooden chopsticks. What if she''s right? he thought, gripping the chopsticks tighter. What if I really can harness this world''s energy? His stomach growled again, and he didn''t hesitate to dig in. "This is amazing," Shen Lin smiled. "It''s nothing, Immortal Master. It''s an honor to host someone of your stature." Jack''s mind churned as he ate. He needed to figure out his next steps. This world was still a mystery to him, but one thing was clear¡ªhe couldn''t continue relying on the kindness without giving something in return.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. After finishing the meal, he placed his chopsticks down and bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for the meal. I owe you more than I can ever repay." He then went back to practice martial arts. ........ One evening, Jack wiped the sweat from his brow after an entire day of repetitive practice. It had been a week since he transmigrated into this world. Most of his time had been spent practicing martial arts, and he was already starting to integrate into the family that had taken him in. The family made their living by selling herbs collected from the nearby forest. Jack had begun helping Lin Ao in herb picking . His martial arts training had also progressed rapidly he had nearly mastered the basics and was now thinking of advancing to weapons training. It was high time to move on to the real challenges. As he contemplated his next steps, Shen Lin approached him with a serious expression. Shen Lin looked up, her eyes wide with hope. "Immortal Master?" Shen Lin hesitated, her hands clasped nervously. "I have a request... a bold one, perhaps. But please hear me out." Jack raised an eyebrow, leaning back slightly. "What is it?" "I have a request immortal master" said shen Lin She took a deep breath, then bowed deeply before him, catching him off guard. "I humbly ask that you consider taking my daughter, Xiao Mei, as your disciple." Jack blinked, utterly confused. "Your daughter? Disciple?" Shen Lin straightened, her gaze filled with determination. "Yes, Immortal Master. Xiao Mei has always been fascinated by cultivation, but we lack the means to teach her properly. She has the heart, the discipline, and I believe she could flourish under your guidance." Jack opened his mouth to object, then hesitated. What could he say? He wasn''t an Immortal Master. He didn''t even fully understand what cultivation entailed. But the earnestness in Shen Lin''s eyes stopped him from voicing his doubts. "Why me?" he asked instead, stalling for time. Shen Lin''s expression softened. "I saw you earlier, practicing in the yard. Your movements were precise, powerful. The air itself seemed to respond to your will. Only a true master could command such force." Jack frowned, recalling the trance-like state he''d entered during his practice. He still wasn''t sure what that had been. "I... I don''t think I''m what you think I am," he admitted cautiously. Shen Lin shook her head. "You have the knowledge and strength that Xiao Mei could only dream of achieving." She clasped her hands tightly, her voice trembling slightly. "Please, Immortal Master. This is the only chance she may ever have to rise above the limits of this village." Jack rubbed the back of his neck. He didn''t want to lead them on, but at the same time, he couldn''t bring himself to crush her hopes outright. And perhaps... perhaps teaching Xiao Mei could be a way to learn more about his own abilities. "Alright," he said finally. "However, I must be clear¡ªI cannot teach her immortal cultivation. I don''t know how. For one to cultivate immortality, they must possess spiritual roots. If she doesn''t have them, she must prove her abilities to a cultivation sect to acquire techniques to awaken them." Shen Lin''s face fell slightly at his words. "But," Jack continued, "I can train her in martial arts. It could help her prepare to join a sect." Shen Lin''s face lit up, and she bowed deeply again. "Thank you, Immortal Master! You won''t regret this. Xiao Mei will prove herself worthy." As Shen Lin hurried off to fetch her daughter, Jack sat back, exhaling deeply. What am I getting myself into? he wondered. But a small part of him couldn''t help but feel curious . "I should continue what I was doing earlier," Jack thought. "If I can enter that same state again, I might be able to learn all of Yun Li''s abilities. In that state, it might not even take a month." Moments later, Shen Lin returned with a young girl by her side. Xiao Mei was a small figure, her eyes shining with determination as she stepped forward. Xiao Mei bowed lightly. "Xiao Mei greets the Immortal Master." Jack was impressed by her respectful demeanor. "I''m Jack, and I''ll be your martial arts instructor," he said with a small nod. As Shen Lin left them, Jack couldn''t help but feel a twinge of excitement. What am I getting myself into? he wondered. Yet, a part of him looked forward to what lay ahead. Chapter 6 Jack looked at Xiao Mei, who stood before him with unwavering determination. Her stance was straight, and her eyes sparkled with hope and ambition. Alright, Xiao Mei," Jack began, crossing his arms. "Before we start, tell me¡ªwhy do you want to learn martial arts? And be honest." The girl hesitated, glancing briefly at her mother, who was watching from the doorway. She took a deep breath and met Jack''s gaze. "I want to become strong," she said firmly. "To protect my family and my village. And... I want to see the world beyond these mountains. I want to go on adventures and fight demons. Jack nodded, impressed by her answer. "Good. Determination is important. But remember, this path isn''t easy. Martial arts require discipline, patience, and an unyielding spirit. Do you think you can handle that?" Xiao Mei straightened her back. "Yes, Immortal Master." Jack chuckled. "Call me Jack. I''m not an Immortal Master, just your instructor." Xiao Mei looked confused for a moment but nodded. "Yes, Instructor Jack." He started explaining about martial realms to Xiao mei." Everyone starts as a grade 3 martial artist in this realm people build strong foundation based of martial arts they chose. Martial artists are no different from ordinary people. It is our experience and discipline that differentiate a martial artist and a ordinary people." "Let''s begin, then." Jack gestured toward the yard. "Show me what you''ve got. I need to see where you stand before we go any further." Xiao Mei nodded eagerly and followed him outside. She took her stance, her small fists raised in a basic guard. Jack watched as she performed a series of punches and kicks, her form rough but filled with enthusiasm. "Not bat," Jack commented as she finished. "Your energy is good, but your technique needs work. You''re putting too much strength into your punches without controlling your balance. That''s why you''re losing power halfway through the motion." Xiao Mei blinked, surprised by his precise critique. "What should I do, Instructor Jack?" "First, fix your stance," Jack instructed, stepping closer. He gently adjusted her feet and posture. "Keep your center of gravity stable. Your power comes from your core, not just your arms." As Xiao Mei followed his guidance, Jack found himself slipping into a rhythm. He demonstrated a series of basic movements jabs, hooks, and defensive maneuvers¡ªJack couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride in his progress. He asked Xiao Mei to do as he did Hours passed, and the sun had already been replaced by starry sky. Xiao Mei''s movements became more fluid, her confidence growing with each successful strike. Jack wiped the sweat from his brow and called for a break. "Good work for today," he said, handing Xiao Mei a wooden cup of water. "You''ve got potential, but remember, this is just the beginning. And you should get good rest we will begin early tommorow." Waching her eagernessThis story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. Xiao Mei nodded, her determination clear as she gulped down the water. Since I acquired a perfect body, my mistakes are minimal, Jack reflected as he watched Xiao Mei practice a few more stances before leaving. Teaching someone else is a great way to learn. By observing and correcting someone else''s mistakes, I can refine my own skills as well. ... The next day, after completing his daily routine, Jack went to meet Lin Ao. "Greetings, Immortal Master," Lin Ao said respectfully, bowing slightly. He carried a sack that smelled of fresh herbs. "Greetings," Jack replied. "You seem busy this morning." "I''m preparing to go to the nearby city to sell these herbs," Lin Ao explained, adjusting the sack on his shoulder. Jack hesitated briefly, then asked, "Would it be possible for me to join you?" Lin Ao''s face lit up with a smile. "It would be an honor, Immortal Master. Where would you like to go in the city?" Jack paused, considering his options. He was hoping to find a place where he could establish a stable source of income. "I''m not familiar with the city. What places would you recommend?" Lin Ao thought for a moment. "There''s the market, where you''ll find all kinds of goods and people. It''s lively and full of opportunities. There''s also the pharmacy, where I sell my herbs. And near the pharmacy is the guild hall, where adventurers and mercenaries gather." "The guild hall?" Jack asked, his curiosity piqued. Lin Ao nodded. "Yes. It''s a place where people take on quests, trade information, and sometimes recruit others. If you''re looking for work or connections, it might be worth exploring." "Then I''d like to see it," Jack decided, determination in his voice. "Very well," Lin Ao said, his smile widening. "Let''s go together. I''ll guide you there after I finish my business at the pharmacy." Jack gave a small nod of gratitude. "Thank you, Lin Ao." The two set off toward the city. Jack adjusted his robe and fell in step with Lin Ao as they headed down the forest path. The fresh scent of herbs wafted from Lin Ao''s sack, mingling with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs. The two walked in comfortable silence until the towering gates of the nearby city loomed ahead, bustling with life. The city was a maze of activity. Merchants shouted their wares from vibrant stalls, their voices competing with the clatter of horse-drawn carts and the murmur of townsfolk. The streets were lined with cobblestone, and wooden signboards swung gently in the breeze above shops selling everything from silk to smoked fish. A group of children darted past,with neat robes. "It''s very lively here," Jack remarked, his eyes scanning the crowd, his sense of adventure stirring at the sight of a scene that could not be seen in the 21st century. Shaking his head, Jack thought, I should do what I came to do first. Exploration can happen another day. "It''s the lifeblood of the surrounding villages," Lin Ao replied, shifting the sack on his shoulder. "Everything flows in and out of here goods, people, and stories." As they passed a street musician playing a lively tune, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafted from a nearby bakery. Jack inhaled deeply, savoring the blend of spices and wood. They approached the pharmacy, an old stone building with ivy creeping up its walls and a sign painted with a mortar and pestle. Lin Ao gestured ahead. "The guild hall is just down that way," he said, pointing to the main road Lin Ao nodded. "Shall we meet back here after my business is done?" Jack considered for a moment, then agreed. "Yes, that works. I''ll see you here." Lin Ao gave a slight bow before disappearing into the pharmacy, leaving Jack to navigate the bustling streets toward the guild hall. The guild hall''s imposing structure came into view, its heavy oak doors adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts. Chapter 7 The guild hall was in chaos with loud chatter, clinking plates, and the occasional burst of laughter. The large space was filled with crowds of mercenaries armed with swords and daggers sat alongside nobles in extravagant outfits, indulging in fine food and drink. The air smelled of roasted meat, spilled ale, and the faint metallic tang of weapons. At the guild counter stood a young woman, her expression tight with irritation. She tapped her fingers on the polished wood, her sharp eyes darting toward the loudest group in the room. "It''s too noisy," she thought, her lips pressing into a thin line. "And look at that one, bragging like he''s slain a dragon when it''s probably just a simple delivery job." Her gaze lingered on a particularly animated mercenary, his exaggerated gestures drawing laughs from his companions. The young woman sighed heavily, wishing for a moment of peace amidst the chaos. Suddenly, the heavy main door creaked open, letting in a burst of cold air and momentarily drawing the attention of a few nearby patrons. The young woman at the counter glanced up, her irritation deepening. "Tch, another one," she muttered under her breath, her eyes narrowing as she sized up the newcomer. The man who entered was tall, his black hair neatly tied back, framing a face that seemed almost unnaturally perfect. His luxurious robe, embroidered with intricate patterns. His sharp, calculating gaze suggested he was no mere noble indulging in excess . The young woman at the counter frowned, her irritation momentarily replaced by curiosity. He didn''t fit the usual type that wandered into the guild hall. Her fingers tapped the counter again, a quieter rhythm this time. "Who''s this supposed to be?" she thought, her eyes following him as he moved further into the room. The noise in the hall dulled slightly. A few heads turned toward the newcomer, their conversations faltering. The young woman straightened slightly, her earlier irritation giving way to a vague unease. She braced herself, then masked her discomfort with a polite business smile. "Hey, Claire, do you know this guy?" asked the mercenary she had been complaining about just a moment ago. She turned toward him with an irritated expression, her glare cutting sharper than any retort she might have had. "Okay, okay," the mercenary said quickly, raising his hands in mock surrender before retreating back to his table. ..... Jack pov Looking at the chaotic scene in front of him. Jack''s eyes scanned the room a mix of rough mercenaries, polished nobles, and the vibrant sounds of clattering plates and boisterous laughter. It was exactly as he imagined it to be. From all the novels I''ve read, this is the place where most of the main characters in similar situations end up, he thought, watching a few mercenaries haggle over a contract, their faces alight with the thrill of opportunity. Completing quests, becoming rich... though I may not have that kind of luck. But this should be the perfect place to start for someone with nothing. He inhaled deeply, the smell of roasted meat and ale filling his senses, and took a step further into the hall. This was it¡ªa fresh start, even if the path ahead was uncertain. His fingers brushed against the soft fabric of his robe, and he couldn''t help but wonder how long it would be before he, too, became one of those brash adventurers boasting about their latest exploits. ''now i should look for the counter and register'' jack thought He looks around the counter was easy to find. Quickly making his way to the counter "How can I sign up?" Jack asked the brown-haired woman behind the counter. She paused for a moment before replying, "There''s no signing-up process here."You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Jack frowned, thinking for a moment before asking, "Isn''t this the place where people take quests and make money?" The brown-haired woman¡ªClaire¡ªnarrowed her eyes, studying Jack with a mix of irritation and curiosity. "This isn''t a tavern or a charity," she said, her tone clipped. "It''s a guild hall. Mercenaries , adventurers, and traders gather here to exchange information and take on jobs. But there''s no hand-holding." Jack furrowed his brow. "So¡­ no formal registration?" Claire shook her head. "You want work? You find someone who needs something done and convince them to hire you. Or take a posted job from the board if you''ve got the guts to back it up." Jack glanced at the nearby job board. Most of the postings were clustered together, with bold headings like "Bandit Problem Near the Eastern Pass" and "Missing Person in the Whispering Woods." The more dangerous jobs were marked with red wax seals, warning of high risk. "Is there anything a newbie like me could do?" Jack asked. Claire''s expression darkened, irritation flickering in her eyes. Before she could answer, a loud voice cut in from across the hall. "Look here! We''ve got ourselves a young master wanting to become a mercenary! Anyone wants to hire him" Jack turned to see a blonde mercenary standing nearby, a smug grin on his face. It was the same man Claire had been glaring at earlier. "Maybe he''s got a noble''s purse to throw around!" the mercenary continued, earning a few chuckles from his companions. Jack stiffened, embarrassed by the sudden attention. His eyes flicked around the room, catching a few curious glances from nearby tables. Heat rose to his cheeks, but he kept his expression composed, refusing to let the mercenary see him falter. "I''m just here for work," Jack said, his voice steady despite the tension. The blonde mercenary gave Jack a slow, exaggerated look from head to toe, taking in his neatly pressed robe, clean hands, and lean frame. Jack''s muscles hinted at some training, but his overall appearance made him seem more like a noble than a seasoned fighter. The mercenary''s smirk widened, clearly enjoying himself. "Work, huh? Doesn''t look like you''ve ever had a hard day in your life. Maybe someone will hire you for¡­ bookkeeping or polishing silverware." His companions burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the hall. Jack clenched his jaw, feeling the heat of embarrassment creeping up his neck. He met the mercenary''s gaze with steady eyes, refusing to let the taunts rattle him. "Maybe," Jack said calmly, his voice cutting through the noise. "But at least I won''t be stuck chasing scraps my whole life." The laughter died down, and the blonde mercenary''s smirk twisted into a scowl. "You''ve got a sharp tongue, young master. Let''s see if you''ve got the strength to back it up." Before Jack could respond, Claire''s voice cut in, sharp as a dagger. "Enough, Lars. If you''ve got time to bark, you''ve got time to take a job from the board." The mercenary¡ªLars¡ªglared at her, then at Jack, before letting out a low chuckle. "I''ll be keeping an eye on you, pretty boy. Let''s see how long you last." Jack flinched at Lars'' parting words, his composure cracking for a brief moment. The mercenary''s sneer widened at the reaction, clearly satisfied. "Thought so," Lars muttered, turning back to his table. His companions laughed again, though the sound was more subdued now. Jack clenched his fists, frustrated with himself for showing weakness. Claire noticed the flicker of doubt in his expression and sighed. "Ignore him," she said, her tone softer than before. "Guys like Lars talk big, but they don''t last long when things get serious. Focus on yourself." Jack nodded, forcing himself to relax. "I''m fine," he said, though his voice wavered slightly. Claire tapped the counter, drawing his attention. Before she could speak again, she was interrupted. Annoyance and irritation crept onto her face for being interrupted a second time. "I have a job for you. Something simple ¡ª perfect for a newbie like you." The voice was smooth yet carried an edge of condescension. He turned slowly to see one of the young masters standing a few paces away, dressed in finely embroidered robes. His dark eyes, cold and calculating, face masked by a large, unsettling smile . A chill crept down Jack''s spine. The young master''s posture was relaxed '' there is something unnerving about him'' Jack thougth "The job is simple," the man said with a smile. "Help me collect herbs from the Misty Forest. Three silver coins as payment. Generous, right?" The young master''s smile widened "It''s a rare herb. Worth the risk. I assume you''re not afraid of a little danger?" Jack was perplexed by the unnatural offer. However, his instinct told him to refuse. Trusting his gut, he knew it was best not to accept a job from an unknown person who clearly seems to carry an agenda. He decided to politely decline. Jack forced a polite smile, masking his growing suspicion "I''m sorry, Young Master . I will have to refuse. I only came to look around," Jack apologized. The young master was taken aback by Jack''s refusal but seemed content, as if he had accomplished his goal. The man''s smile didn''t waver. "It''s okay. My name is Lei Han." Jack nodded, feeling a strange sense of foreboding. "Then I''ll take my leave young master Lei." jack quickly made his way toward the entrance. As Jack approached the door, Lars called out. "Good luck, young master! Don''t break a nail!" Jack didn''t respond. This time, he kept his head down and his focus forward. I''ll prove myself¡­ just not with words. Chapter 8 Jack walked out of the guild hall, his figure disappearing into the crowd. Lei Han, with slow, deliberate steps, approached the receptionist''s desk. His expression remained neutral at first, but as he neared Claire, a wide smile spread across his face ¡ª a smile that seemed warm at a glance, yet felt strangely out of place. "Can you give me the contract you were about to hand him?" he asked quietly, his voice calm, his face still plastered with that unsettling smile. Claire, caught off guard by his sudden approach, instinctively glared at him for the interruption. However, her irritation quickly melted away when she met his eyes¡ªcold and razor-sharp, like steel cutting through her confidence. A shiver ran down her spine, and she lowered her eyes, hastily pushing a contract paper toward him. It was originally meant for Jack, but now it seemed better suited for this moment. "This is a contract given to us by a small merchant for a low grade medicinal herbs" claire said Lei Han''s expression softened into a faint, calculating smile. "This will do." Just as his fingers reached for the contract, another hand shot out, snatching it away before he could take it. Lei Han''s eyes narrowed as he turned to face the thief. It was Lars a brash and hot-headed adventurer known for picking fights. He held the quest paper up with a smirk. "Don''t think you can get away with intimidating the receptionist in front of everyone," Lars said, his voice loud enough to draw attention from nearby guild members The tension in the air thickened as Lei Han met Lars'' challenging gaze with an icy calmness. "Don''t think you can just intimidate the receptionist and take whatever you want. Not while I''m around." A ripple of tension spread through the guild hall. Conversations faltered as eyes shifted toward the confrontation. Lei Han met Lars'' glare with icy indifference. His voice was quiet, measured. "Hand it back." Lars chuckled, his smirk widening. "Or what? You think you can scare me with that cold stare of yours? Intimidation might work on others, but not on me. "I suggest you hand that back," Lei Han said quietly, his tone even and deadly. Lars'' smirk widened. "You think you''re above the rest of us don''t you?" The tension in the hall grew thick, eyes shifting between the two. Lei Han''s gaze remained cold and unflinching as he stared at Lars. "Is that so?" he murmured, his voice dangerously low. Before Lars could react, A hand clamped down on Lars'' shoulder heavy, unyielding, like iron. The pressure sent pain shooting through his body, and he grimaced, feeling his bones snap. His bravado crumbled in an instant. His knees buckled, and beads of sweat formed on his brow.Lars didn''t dare turn around to see who or what stood behind him nor did he scream of intense pain from having a crushed shoulder. His instincts screamed that any movement would seal his fate. From the corner of his eye, he saw Lei Han''s unsettling smile return. Should I kill the bug?" a deep voice rumbled from behind Lars, low and menacing. Looking at Lars terrified face.Lei Han''s smile softened, almost mockingly. "No need," he replied casually. "He might still be of use." The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. As the word left Lei han''s mouth.The unseen hand released its grip, and Lars staggered but remained rooted in place, too terrified to move. Lei Han stepped closer, leaning in until his cold eyes locked with Lars''. His voice was low, barely a whisper, but it cut through the silence like a knife. "Do me a favor¡­ Keep an eye on the junior for me." Lars swallowed hard, nodding stiffly. He didn''t need to ask who the ''junior'' was Jack. The message was clear. Satisfied, Lei Han plucked the contract from Lars'' trembling hand. His tone remained calm as he added, Lars nodded again, his pride crushed beneath the weight of his fear. Lei Han straightened, the eerie calm returning to his demeanor as if nothing had happened. With the contract in hand, he turned away, leaving Lars frozen in place. Whispers began to stir among those who had witnessed the scene. Wary glances followed Lei Han as he left the hall. Lars stood frozen, his mind reeling, until a hand tapped his shoulder. "You look like you''ve seen a ghost," the figure behind him teased. Lars blinked, snapping back to reality. He instinctively touched his shoulder, wincing at the phantom pain. "You didn''t see him?" Lars asked, his voice shaking. "The guy¡­ He broke my shoulder." The figure frowned, confused. "What are you talking about and broke your shoulder ?Your shoulder is fine." Lars looked down at his shoulder, flexing his arm. His eyes widened in disbelief. His shoulder was completely intact ¡ª not a scratch, not even a bruise. "No¡­ It happened," he whispered to himself. "I felt it." The figure gave him a concerned look. "Maybe you''re losing it, Lars." Lars shook his head slowly, his gaze drifting toward the guild''s exit where Lei Han had vanished. "No¡­ I''m not." But deep down, he knew that whatever had happened wasn''t normal. The fear lingering in his heart told him that much. The whispers continued, and the guild hall buzzed with unease. Yet all Lars could hear was the quiet echo of Lei Han''s chilling words. "Keep an eye on the junior." And Lars knew he would. "An immortal cultivator¡­" The thought echoed in Lars'' mind, his throat tightening as if the very realization had seized his breath. His legs trembled as the weight of his fear sank in. Immortal cultivators ¡ª untouchable beings who walked a path beyond mortal comprehension. To cross one was to invite death, or worse, a fate that could leave a man broken in both body and soul. ..... Jack''s POV Exiting the guild, Jack was met with the bustling sight of a lively market square. The streets were packed with people, stalls lined with colorful wares, and the air filled with the scent of spices, roasted meat, and freshly baked bread. Jack paused for a moment, taking in the vibrant scene. His gaze swept over the crowd, watching the exchange of coins, laughter, and the occasional heated argument. "Now that I''m here, let me take a good look," Jack murmured to himself, stepping further into the crowd. "I''ve got time before meeting Lin Ao." As he wandered through the market, his attention was drawn to a row of meat stalls. The sizzling sound of skewered meat over open flames and the mouthwatering aroma made his stomach growl in anticipation. Juicy cuts of beef, lamb, and poultry hung from hooks, seasoned to perfection and dripping with grease. He paused, considering for a moment. I could really use a bite. His hand drifted toward the pouch hanging at his waist, feeling the small weight of his hard-earned coins. He opened the pouch and counted the contents. "Three silver coin and ten copper coins," he muttered, recounting his meager savings from the herb-picking venture with Lin Ao. Most of it was borrowed from Lin Ao in the first place. Jack sighed, shaking his head. "I''d better save it. No point wasting money on a meal when I''ll need it for more important things." Reluctantly pulling his gaze away from the food stalls, Jack pushed deeper into the market. His eyes scanned the bustling crowd until something unusual caught his attention . His gaze shifted toward a quieter street, where a modest, newly furnished shop stood. The exterior had a simple wooden sign that read: "Ironfang Armory." Jack''s eyes narrowed with interest. I need to learn weapon arts. The thought burned in his mind like a smoldering ember. Driven by the thought, he made his way down the toward the shop. Without hesitation, he walked up to the door and pushed open. Inside, the scent of oiled steel and fresh wood filled the air. The shop was simple but well-organized. Weapons hung neatly on the walls rows of swords, axes, and spears, each polished and ready for use. The wooden floor creaked slightly under his feet as he stepped further in. Behind the counter sat an old man. He wasn''t particularly imposing his clothes were plain, and his face lined with age but his sharp eyes locked onto Jack the moment he entered. Chapter 9 Staying at the youth in front of him ''He looks like a rich young master'' the old man thought, noting Jack''s fine clothing and upright posture. This could be a good payday. The old man''s expression shifted into a polite, businesslike smile. "Welcome, young master. What brings you to my humble shop?" Jack blinked, momentarily taken aback by the formal greeting. Young master? It wasn''t the first time someone had mistaken him for a noble. Jack confused but offered a small nod, glancing around at the weapons. A thought lingered in his mind. Why does everyone keep mistaking me for someone important? His fingers brushed the fabric of his robes. They were high-quality and luxurious a far cry from what he was saw from regular people he saw in this world. His gaze darkened as memories surfaced. Right these clothes belonged to Yun Li. Jack frowned as memories surfaced. Yun Li had been wearing this exact outfit when he was killed by Chen Ruin . The last time he had seen them, they were soaked in blood¡ªYun Li''s blood. Jack remembered the lifeless body, the gash across his chest, and the way the once-pristine robes had clung to him like a second skin, drenched in crimson. Yet when he woke up the next morning, they were as good as new. Not a single bloodstain remained. What kind of clothes are these¡­? Jack''s grip on the fabric tightened slightly. The shop''s wooden floor creaked under Jack''s steps as he walked toward the weapon displays. Each footfall echoed in the quiet shop, the air thick with the scent of metal and old wood. The old man noticed Jack''s thoughtful expression "Young master, we have some fine weapons here. Perhaps you''d be interested in a sword? Or maybe a spear? We have the best craftsmanship in the city." Jack offered a small nod "I am just looking around" gazing at the displays in front of him his mind still racing. I need a weapon jack thought as he wasn''t sure what dangers lay ahead, but he couldn''t afford to remain defenseless. The shopkeeper followed close behind, his smile lingering like a predator sizing up prey. He''d seen customers like Jack before¡ªyoung, eager, and naive. But there was something different about this one. His posture was too composed, his gaze too sharp. The robes Jack wore suggested wealth, yet his demeanor didn''t match the arrogance of a typical noble.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. As he browsed the display cases,Jack stopped in front of a circular weapon displayed on a pedestal. His eyes narrowed. A chakram. The weapon gleamed under the faint light, its silver surface reflecting a dull sheen. Jack''s fingers twitched at his side. Yun Li''s chakram¡­ He fought with such precision. Always calm, always one step ahead. Jack had admired that about him It wasn''t exactly like Yun Li''s. The chakram in front of him was simple, made of silver, and lacked the leather handle modification that Yun Li had added for close combat. But it was close enough. " How much does this cost" jack inquired The old man followed his gaze, then grinned. "Ah, you''ve got good eyes, young master. That''s a fine chakram, crafted from silver. Silver is excellent for conducting internal energy, making it a deadly weapon for a skilled wielder." He tapped the counter. "Five gold coins, at minimum. Jack''s heart sank. Five gold? He barely had a fraction of that. "Do you have anything¡­ less expensive?" Jack asked, his voice tinged with disappointment. The shopkeeper''s smile faded. His enthusiasm waned, replaced by suspicion. ''Why is a noble haggling?'' he wondered. His eyes flickered to Jack''s robes again, a shadow of doubt crossing his face. The shopkeeper with his enthusiasm fading. "We''ve got steel chakrams, durable and reliable, for one gold coin. Below that, there''s bronze¡ªfifty silver coins." Jack frowned. "What about something for three silver coins?" The shopkeeper blinked, then let out a scoff. "Three silver coins? With that, you won''t even afford an iron weapon." The old man''s gaze sharpened. ''Something''s off. The robes were far too fine for someone who couldn''t afford a basic weapon. Was this young master a fraud?'' Jack didn''t care about the judgment in the old man''s eyes. He had long since discarded his pride. Pride didn''t matter when you were barely holding on.. "Do you have anything for three silver?" Jack pressed. He wasn''t about to give up. The old man leaned back, rubbing his chin, clearly unimpressed. "At that price? Maybe some scrap metal in the back." Jack nodded, ignoring the insult. He wasn''t here for pride. He''d seen too many stories of forgotten treasures disguised as junk. Maybe today, luck would be on his side. After all, he barely even knew who he was so why would he care what others thought of him? "Show me the scrap." The shopkeeper rolled his eyes but gestured for Jack to follow. Jack nodded. "Scrap metal or treasure, we''ll see." The shopkeeper raised an eyebrow as hearing Jack''s words. As they moved through a narrow hallway to a backroom cluttered with broken blades, dented armor, and rusted weapons. Chapter 10 Following the shopkeeper, Jack was led to the far corner of the shop, where a pile of metal scraps lay scattered. Some pieces resembled poorly crafted weapons, while others were strange, unidentified objects with odd shapes mixed in. Jack knelt, sifting through the pile. The weapons were crude¡ªblades chipped, handles splintered. Worthless junk. He moved further into the corner of broken swords and dented shields , until his eyes landed on something unexpected. A seed . Roughly the size of his palm, it shimmered faintly with a metallic sheen covered in what seems to be rust. Intricate patterns, like veins, ran along its rusted surface. The longer Jack stared, the more something stirred within him a familiar hum beneath his skin. His dormant purple lightning, which had been silent for so long, crackled faintly to life. Why now? Jack''s heart pounded as he reached for the seed. His hand trembled, his fingers brushing its cool surface. The closer he got, the stronger the pull. The lightning within him surged, responding to the seed''s energy. And the moment Jack grasped it, everything changed. A cold, blissful energy flowed through him, weaving into his body like a gentle stream. His consciousness shifted. He was no longer in the shop. Before him loomed a massive, swirling purple cloud. Jack recognized it instantly. His soul. His essence. The cloud, once chaotic and unstable, began to change. It condensed, transforming from vapor into liquid¡ªmolten lightning, thick and vibrant. Jack marveled at the sight, feeling it fill the cracks in his soul, soothing the chaos that had plagued him since his arrival in this strange world. But suddenly, a voice shattered the serenity. "I''ll buy what''s in his hand." Jack''s eyes snapped open. The blissful feeling vanished, replaced by a hollow ache. Standing before him, wearing his ever-present serene smile, was Lei Han.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Jack''s grip on the seed tightened. "I got it first," Jack growled, his voice low and trembling with anger. Lei Han''s smile didn''t falter.Taking out a pouch "I''ll pay fifty gold for it," Lei Han said smoothly. The shopkeeper''s eyes widened in shock. Fifty gold was an outrageous sum for what he believed to be worthless scrap. His greedy gaze flickered between Jack and Lei Han. "Deal!" the shopkeeper blurted out, rubbing his hands together eagerly. He turned to Jack, his smile twisted with greed. "Young master, I must ask you to return the item." Jack''s grip tightened further. His heart pounded in his chest. I won''t let it go. The lightning within him crackled faintly. His hand refused to loosen. Seeing Jack''s defiance, the shopkeeper''s smile soured. His patience wore thin. "Young master, please return the item," he insisted sharply. Jack didn''t move. His body refused to obey, the seed feeling like a part of him now. The shopkeeper''s frustration boiled over. He reached out, trying to pry Jack''s hand open, but no matter how hard he pulled, Jack''s grip wouldn''t budge. He''s strong. "Give me the item, or I''ll call the city guards!" the shopkeeper threatened. Jack''s face twisted in unease. He hadn''t meant to cause trouble, but he couldn''t let go. The seed felt like it belonged to him,like it was waiting for him. The shopkeeper sneered. "Fine! I''ll get the guards myself." Before he could storm out, Lei Han stepped forward, pulling out a heavy pouch of coins. He placed it in the shopkeeper''s hands, the clinking of gold instantly pacifying the man. Satisfied, the shopkeeper backed off, leaving Lei Han to deal with Jack. Lei Han''s gaze remained soft, but a sharpness glinted beneath it¡ªa predatory gleam behind the gentle mask. "Will you hand over my item now?" Lei Han asked politely. Jack stood his ground, glaring at Lei Han with unyielding resolve. His hand stayed locked around the seed, his fingers trembling with barely contained fury. Lei Han''s smile faltered. His tone grew colder. "I would like you to return my item." Jack didn''t move. The softness drained from Lei Han''s expression. His mask cracked, revealing the darkness beneath¡ªa side he rarely showed in public. "Very well." Before Jack could react, Lei Han closed the distance between them, placing a hand on Jack''s shoulder. The pressure hit instantly. An overwhelming, crushing force bore down on Jack, making his knees buckle. Pain shot through his body, spreading from Lei Han''s iron grip. Jack screamed as the agony tore through him. His hand trembled, and the seed slipped from his grasp, falling to the ground with a faint metallic thud. Lei Han''s smile returned, colder now. "That''s better." Jack crumpled to the floor, clutching his broken shoulder. His heart pounded, his mind swirling with rage and confusion. But one thought stood out clearly. I won''t forget this. Lei Han bent down, picking up the seed with careful fingers. He held it briefly before it disappeared into the black ring on his finger. "Thank you for your cooperation," Lei Han said smoothly. Without another glance at Jack, he turned and walked toward the exit, his steps calm and measured. Jack sat trembling on the floor with tears in his eyes, purple lightning flickering faintly around him. His emotions swirled¡ªanger, humiliation, and desperation mixing into a chaotic storm within him. As Lei Han''s figure disappeared, Jack clenched his fist, gritting his teeth, a manic grin creeping across his face.As if he had lost something precious. "I''ll get it back," he whispered. "No matter what it takes." Chapter 11 Kneeling on the floor, Jack gripped his broken shoulder, pain surging through him like a torrent. His vision blurred, and tears welled up in his eyes, but he refused to give in. He was unaccustomed to such pain¡ªhis world had been peaceful, far from the brutality he now faced. But amid the agony, a stronger, darker emotion began to rise. It was raw, wild, uncontrollable¡ªanger. A rage that burned like wildfire, consuming everything in its path. Jack''s heart thundered in his chest, a mix of pain and fury pushing him past the brink of reason. His breath came in ragged gasps as he felt the rage surge, threatening to tear him apart if he couldn''t unleash it. His mind swirled in chaos, torn between the overwhelming pain and this unrelenting fury that kept him from falling unconscious. Then, something strange began to happen. A heat, an intense warmth, spread from his abdomen, flowing through his veins, washing over him like a wildfire. His shoulder, once agony personified, seemed to numb, then fade entirely. The pain was vanishing, but it wasn''t just the pain¡ªit was like the very limits of his body were being rewritten. His body felt stronger, almost impossibly strong. Jack''s mind was clouded, but the rage... the rage was clear. It boiled up, unrestrained, as if it could consume him. His hands clenched into fists, and a maniacal grin twisted his face. It wasn''t the grin of a man in control¡ªno, it was the grin of someone who had crossed a line, someone who had lost all sense of reason. The warmth spreading through his body wasn''t just a sensation anymore; it felt like raw power, like he could break anything in his path. His consciousness wasn''t returning¡ªno, it was being twisted into something else, something darker. Jack no longer feared the pain. He no longer feared anything.He felt like he could squash lei han like he did to him. He stood up shakily, his body still trembling, but the grin on his face never faltered. The shopkeeper had witnessed the entire scene, and now, as Jack moved toward the exit, the man could see something terrifying in his eyes. No longer the lost, pained youth, Jack now looked like something else¡ªsomething ruthless. His smile was no longer just one of madness; it was the smile of someone who had abandoned any trace of normality, of compassion.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. The shopkeeper''s stomach churned with dread. He realized that Jack was no fraud young master he assumed him to be. No, Jack was something far more dangerous looking at small crackle appear time to time he was one of those cold-blooded cultivators who would kill without hesitation, without thought. He cursed his luck for having been foolish enough to cross paths with such a being. Jack, lost in his crazed state, paid no attention to the shopkeeper. He walked straight for the door, his movements fluid, almost predatory. The shopkeeper barely managed to breathe a sigh of relief as Jack disappeared into the street, his heart still racing. Once the door slammed shut behind Jack, the shopkeeper slumped against the counter, sweat pouring down his face. He looked up at the ceiling, his hands shaking. "I''m alive¡­" he whispered, voice barely audible. The terror still clung to him. He had witnessed something truly horrifying tonight¡ªsomething far beyond his understanding. With a tremulous laugh, he shook his head. "I''m alive" .... Jack''s POV The streets bustled with life, yet Jack wasn''t overwhelmed. His senses, now heightened to unnatural levels, absorbed everything around him with startling clarity. He could hear every conversation, catch every whisper, and see every flicker of movement. Even the faintest speck of dust drifting through the air didn''t escape his notice. The noise, the chaos, the crowd¡ªnone of it fazed him. His mind worked methodically, breaking down the environment with cold precision. Every voice, every expression, every nervous glance became pieces of a puzzle he assembled effortlessly. But the one piece he sought remained elusive. Jack''s gaze swept over the bustling crowd once more, his sharp eyes scanning every face. He caught snippets of conversations¡ªmerchants haggling, children laughing, travelers whispering¡ªbut Lei Han was nowhere to be seen. A flicker of irritation crossed Jack''s face, but it was quickly snuffed out by the steady pulse of rage simmering beneath his skin. He wouldn''t stop. He wouldn''t rest. The hunt was far from over. Jack inhaled deeply, focusing on the scents and sounds carried by the wind. His instincts sharpened. If Lei Han was here, he would find him. Turning toward the edge of the crowd, Jack''s eyes narrowed. He couldn''t hide forever. Chapter 12 Misty Forest The sun had long since disappeared, leaving the Misty Forest cloaked in an oppressive darkness. Jack pressed on, his search for Lei Han dragging him deeper into the fog-shrouded woods. The trail had gone cold, and now he stood at the heart of the forest, frustration gnawing at him. The mist clung to him like a second skin, thick and suffocating. It dulled his vision, forcing him to rely solely on his heightened senses. But now, even those were failing. The scent he had been tracking was gone. Jack clenched his fists, his rage bubbling to the surface. He glanced at his shoulder¡ªit had healed, the pain gone, yet his anger remained. ¡°Where are you?¡± he growled through gritted teeth, his voice echoing eerily through the silence. His frustration boiled over, and he punched a nearby tree with all his strength, shattering the bark and leaving a gaping hole. ¡°Coward! Don¡¯t hide! Show yourself!¡± Jack¡¯s roar cut through the mist like a blade. Suddenly, a sound reached his ears¡ªa faint rustling, growing louder. Something was approaching. Without hesitation, Jack bolted toward the noise. His instincts took over, and he moved swiftly, weaving through the mist as if it parted just for him. Then he saw it. Emerging from the fog was a massive bear, towering over him at twice his size. Its fur was dark and matted, red eyes glowing with malice. Sharp claws glinted in the dim light, and its body bore numerous scars and fresh bloodstains. The beast had recently fought¡ªand survived. Jack¡¯s breath caught in his throat.This was no ordinary bear. Before he could react, the bear lunged, claws slicing through the air. Jack jumped back, just in time to see the ground where he¡¯d stood moments ago ripped apart like paper. Step back. Another swipe. Step back again. Jack retreated, each step precise as the bear¡¯s claws gouged deep furrows into the earth. His mind raced. I can¡¯t fight this. I need to get out of here. Without a second thought, Jack turned and sprinted in the opposite direction. But the bear was fast. With a thunderous roar, it charged after him, slamming its massive body into Jack and sending him hurtling into a tree. The impact rattled his bones, and pain exploded in his back. For a moment, he feared his spine had snapped.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Before he could even scream, the bear was on him again. A massive claw ripped across his chest, shredding his clothes and tearing into his flesh. Blood sprayed through the air as Jack was flung backward, crashing into the forest floor. He lay there, stunned, his mind reeling. Adrenaline surged through his veins. The pain dulled, replaced by a singular focus on the predator looming over him. The bear bared its teeth, sharp and glistening, as it approached. Jack rolled to the side, narrowly dodging a devastating bite. For a brief moment, clarity returned as now in a situation where he is likely to die. He has no idea what to do now as he has never had any real experience in fighting. He even forgot his on martial arts right after the first body slam. He wasn¡¯t just angry anymore. He was afraid as this was a battle for survival. Jack¡¯s breath came in ragged gasps. His heart pounded in his chest as the realization hit him. ''I¡¯m doomed''. His mind raced back to his brief encounter with Lei Han. He should never have come here, never have followed him into the forest. He should never have let himself be driven by pride and rage. ''It wasn¡¯t like me to throw my life away for some strange seed''. Jack gritted his teeth as regret mingled with despair. ''Why did I try to fight him?'' Lei Han had crushed him like he was nothing. And it all came back to that seed. The strange, alluring seed that had made him reckless, addicted to its power. ''I shouldn¡¯t have touched it. '' jack thought. ''I will never stupidly touch an unknown object in this world'' . Jack made a promise to himself but Jack¡¯s thoughts were cut short as the bear lunged once more. Its massive jaws snapped inches from his face. Jack dodged again, moving on instinct. ¡°Is this all I can do?¡± he muttered bitterly. ¡°Just dodge and run?¡± But he knew the truth. He couldn¡¯t keep this up.The bear was relentless, and Jack¡¯s stamina was draining fast as he is using all his energy to dodge its attacks. His strength was ebbing. He needed to fight back. Jack¡¯s eyes darted over the bear, searching for a weakness. The creature was wounded¡ªblood stained its hind legs, and its steps were uneven. There¡¯s my opening. Jack stopped near a tree, baiting the bear. With a deafening roar, the bear lunged, claws aimed at Jack. At the last second, Jack dodged, and the bear¡¯s claws smashed into the tree, splintering the trunk. The massive tree groaned and toppled, crashing to the ground. Jack seized the moment. He dashed toward the bear¡¯s wounded hind leg, channeling all his strength into a single, devastating punch. Crack! The bear roared in pain, collapsing as its leg gave out. It struggled to stand, its balance broken. Jack turned to flee, his heart pounding. But before he could get far, the bear rose again. With terrifying speed, it charged, slamming into Jack once more. The impact sent him flying into another tree. Pain shot through his body. His left shoulder dislocated, and blood dripped from another deep gash across his chest. Jack gasped for air, his vision blurring. His body trembled with exhaustion. The bear was too strong. ''I can¡¯t win''. As his consciousness started to slip, Jack saw something. In the distance, beyond the bear¡¯s hulking form, he saw a flicker of purple light. It shimmered in the mist, pulsing like a heartbeat. It called to him. Jack¡¯s eyes locked onto it, and he felt a surge of energy, familiar yet foreign, respond to his desperation.