《This Junior Sister is a bit Introverted》
Preface - READ THIS BEFORE READING -
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Chapter 001 - The Recruitment Day
In the town square of Elaria, the crowd stirred with anticipation.
It was the long-awaited recruitment day of the Immortal Alliance, an event held only once every few years. Children and teenagers, ranging from seven to eighteen, had gathered from nearby villages and distant towns, each hoping to be chosen for the path of cultivation.
Rinne, a small girl of seven years old, stood apart from the crowd.
Her expression remained blank, and her dark eyes stared into the distance. She kept herself tucked away in a quiet corner of the square, far from the bustle, with a cracked bowl placed in front of her.
Her clothes were dirty and patched together from old rags. Her short, unkempt hair made her look like a scruffy beggar boy. Compared to the neatly dressed children and hopeful teenagers, she was an odd and pitiful sight.
People passing by shot her brief looks of contempt.
¡°Disgraceful. How could such a dirty child be allowed here?¡±
A middle-aged man sneered as he walked past.
His words drew a few disapproving looks from those nearby, but no one commented. He tugged his robe, as if shielding himself from an unseen stench.
¡°It''s just another beggar trying to earn sympathy,¡±
A woman beside him muttered, her voice sharp with disdain.
She gave Rinne one last glance before pulling her child away. Both hurried toward the center of the square, unwilling to associate with the ragged beggar in the corner.
"Poor thing."
Despite the scornful whispers, a few people pitied her.
A young man in plain clothes hesitated before dropping a small copper coin into her bowl. The coin clinked as it hit the bowl, but he didn''t linger. His steps quickened, as though fearing the beggar might ask for more.
Rinne''s gaze flickered to the bowl. She counted the coins silently, barely enough for a simple meal. Her expression didn''t change, as if the donations meant nothing. She had chosen this disguise to avoid drawing attention, ensuring that no one approached her beyond an occasional coin toss.
Around her, the square buzzed with chatter. Children exchanged hopeful whispers while others craned their necks, waiting for the event to begin.
A boy nearby nudged his friend, his voice full of excitement.
¡°I hope I get chosen as an inner disciple! Can you imagine? Training under a real Immortal Master!¡±
His friend grinned wide, his eyes sparkling with the same ambition.
¡°That would be amazing! I heard the inner disciples get the best resources¡ªand secret techniques too!¡±
They laughed quietly, filled with dreams of the future.
Rinne listened to their excitement, though her mind remained detached. She glanced at the children around her, their faces brimming with hope. Their dreams were full of light, unburdened by the realities she had lived through.
For her, this ceremony was just one more step along a journey she had walked for years¡ªalone and without hope for miracles.
Her thoughts drifted back to her past. This was her third life. She was not just a reincarnator but also a regressor. Her second life had ended in failure, and this was her chance to start again.
Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.
???
The memories of her first life were hazy, the details lost to time and the shock of death.
She didn¡¯t remember how she had died, only that one moment she was living, and the next she was waking up as a newborn in a completely different world. There had been no divine figure to grant her powers, no miraculous aid to ease her way¡ªjust the cold truth of a second life she had to navigate from scratch.
The first decade of her new life had been nothing short of hell.
Born into a tribal-like society, Rinne found herself in a world devoid of the conveniences she had once taken for granted. There were no flush toilets, no gas stoves, no modern amenities to speak of. Survival was a daily struggle, and luxury was a foreign concept.
At the age of ten, poverty drove her family to sell her into slavery. She was sent to a nameless brothel in a neighboring city, where she spent the next few years learning the harsh lessons of life. She was taught to read, to dance, to play music¡ªskills that were both a blessing and a curse in her new circumstances.
Rinne couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of regret whenever she thought back to those days.
''If only father and mother had given me a few more years, I wouldn¡¯t have minded sharing some of my knowledge from my past life. I could have made them rich¡''
But such thoughts were pointless now. It had been a tribal society, where the patriarch held absolute authority. In their eyes, she was nothing more than a dull-witted child. It had taken her years to learn their language, years during which she was seen as slow, as a burden.
How could they trust such a girl to do anything of value?
In the end, she had resigned herself to her fate, allowing life to carry her wherever it would.
It was during her years at the brothel that she first encountered cultivation¡ªa world where strength determined everything, where even mortals could ascend beyond their limits. After discovering the existence of the cultivation world, Rinne couldn¡¯t help but yearn for it. She became obsessed with it, hoping to escape the chains of her current life.
In her previous life, she had read countless fantasy novels about reincarnation in other worlds.
She often thought of those novel protagonists¡ªhow powerful, how overpowered they were, always rising above every challenge with ease. It was inspiring, but when she compared it to her own life, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a deep sense of shame.
What was the point of reincarnating if she didn¡¯t aim for the highest?
At that time, Rinne was eighteen, soon to be nineteen. The desire to escape her miserable existence drove her to flee to another city, where she could attend the recruitment ceremony for the first and last time in that life. It was her only chance to enter the cultivation world, and she had to pass.
But reality was cruel.
She learned that she didn¡¯t possess a spiritual root¡ªthe foundation necessary for cultivation. Without it, the dream of becoming an immortal was nothing more than a fantasy.
Yet she refused to give up.
There must be a way, just like in the fantasy novels she had read. If she couldn¡¯t cultivate through orthodox means, perhaps unorthodox methods could work. Determined, she embarked on a journey, traveling from town to town, stealthily gathering information while avoiding dangerous places and people.
Along the way, she heard whispers of various unorthodox practices, some of them so evil they made her skin crawl¡ªabsorbing the souls of others, often innocent babies, to boost cultivation, transplanting another¡¯s spiritual root, and many more dark and twisted methods.
But those weren¡¯t what she was seeking. Even if she wanted to explore such paths, she lacked the means to access them. The rumors were just that¡ªrumors, distant and unattainable.
At twenty-four, she found a different path.
A mysterious cultivator was offering something unheard of: pseudo spiritual roots, granted to ordinary mortals, for free, allowing them to practice cultivation. It sounded too good to be true¡ªsuspicious, even.
Why would anyone offer such a valuable thing for free?
Despite the obvious risks, Rinne decided to take the plunge. She attended the ceremony where the cultivator distributed a strange water from a porcelain bottle. The air was thick with tension as she lifted the bottle to her lips. Her mind raced with doubt and fear, but she forced herself to drink.
The cultivator hadn¡¯t lied.
Soon after she drank the water, a sharp pain coursed through her body. But alongside the pain came a strange, exhilarating sensation¡ªshe could sense something different in the air, something she had never felt before.
It was spiritual energy. For the first time, she was connected to it.
???
The sharp clang of a bell jolted her back to the present.
Rinne¡¯s reminiscence was abruptly interrupted by a loud noise from the crowd. The restless murmurs and shuffling feet signaled that something was happening.
She looked up to see the people of the Alliance finally arriving, their presence commanding immediate attention. The atmosphere in the square shifted, excitement and anxiety rippling through the gathered crowd.
This was it, the moment everyone had been waiting for.
Chapter 002 - A Path Rewritten
A flying boat descended from the sky and hovered above the bustling city square. Its shadow cast an imposing silhouette over the gathered crowd, who watched in awe as the vessel came to a halt.
The boat was sleek and formidable, its hull etched with intricate symbols that shimmered faintly in the sunlight.
Several figures clad in the distinctive robes of the Immortal Alliance leaped gracefully from the boat, their movements fluid and controlled as they landed on the ground below. Each of them exuded an aura of power and authority, instantly commanding the attention of everyone present.
One of the figures, an elder with a stern countenance and silver-streaked hair, stepped forward to address the crowd. His voice, though not loud, was amplified by spiritual power, carrying across the entire square with ease.
"Today marks the beginning of the Immortal Alliance''s recruitment ceremony," he announced, his tone solemn. "Only those with a pure heart and a strong spirit shall advance. Let the testing begin."
A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd as the elder finished speaking. The first stage of the recruitment was about to commence: the detection of spiritual roots.
A large, ornate measuring tool was brought forward, its surface engraved with runes that glowed softly. This device would determine who among the participants had the potential to cultivate and ascend to the ranks of the Immortal Alliance.
Rinne¡¯s gaze drifted to the spiritual root measuring tool, her expression complex.
Memories of her past life surfaced¡ªhow she had stood before a similar device, filled with hope, only to be crushed by the realization that she lacked a spiritual root. That failure had set her on a dark path, one she was determined not to repeat.
But this time, things were different. The outcome of this test didn¡¯t matter as much to her now. She had a plan, knowledge that she hadn¡¯t possessed before. Still, the sight of the tool brought back memories of her previous life¡¯s disappointment, and she couldn''t help but feel a pang of unease.
The participants were quickly organized into lines according to their age groups. Rinne, after a brief moment of hesitation, stood up, collecting the cracked bowl and the few coins that had been tossed into it. She slipped them into a small bag at her side and made her way to the line designated for children aged 7 to 12.
Avoiding the group of wealthier children clad in fine garments, she approached the section where the poorer children stood. Their clothes were as shabby as hers, though she noted that even they looked down upon her, a beggar who dared to join their ranks.
As Rinne took her place in the line, she heard whispers and saw looks of disgust from the other children. Some of them sneered, their faces twisted with dissatisfaction. A few even stepped forward, trying to chase her away.
One boy muttered, glaring at Rinne.
¡°Why is this beggar here? This is not a place for you.¡±
¡°You¡¯ll bring us bad luck! Go away, beggar!¡±
A girl added, scrunching up her nose.
Rinne could only sigh inwardly at their pettiness. How ironic that these children, who were as poor and downtrodden as she appeared to be, could harbor such disdain for someone they saw as beneath them.
¡°Enough,¡±
She scolded softly but firmly, her voice low yet carrying a surprising weight.
¡°The ceremony is about to start, and the immortals are watching. Cause any trouble, and you¡¯ll be the ones kicked out, not me.¡±
Her words had the desired effect. The children exchanged nervous glances, quickly silencing their complaints. None of them wanted to risk the wrath of the Immortal Alliance, and the thought of being expelled from the ceremony was enough to quell their dissatisfaction.
With a resigned sigh, Rinne settled into her place in the line, her thoughts focused on the trial ahead. The spiritual root detection was only the first of many challenges she would face. But this time, she was ready.
The immortal who had spoken earlier raised his hand, and a glowing orb materialized, floating from his palm to the front of the line. The orb was the spiritual root measuring tool, an instrument that would determine each child''s potential to cultivate. It radiated a soft, ethereal light, pulsing gently as if alive.
The first child in line, a boy of about ten years, stepped forward nervously and placed his hands on the orb. The crowd watched in tense anticipation.
"Rylin Zareth, age 10 years old, double spiritual root: Earth 60%, Wood 35%,"
The immortal announced, his voice echoing across the square.
"Passed."
The boy''s face lit up with joy as he stepped back into the crowd, where murmurs of approval rippled through the onlookers. His parents, standing nearby, breathed a sigh of relief.
Next, a girl no older than eight approached the orb, her small hands trembling slightly as she touched its surface.
"Eila Venar, age 8 years old, double spiritual root: Water 70%, Wood 45%, Passed."
Eila''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she hurried back to her place, her parents beaming with pride.
One by one, the children stepped forward to have their spiritual roots measured. Most of the wealthy children exhibited double or triple spiritual roots, a testament to their privileged upbringing and access to superior resources. Their clans had clearly invested heavily in ensuring that only the most talented among them would be presented at this ceremony. Those who lacked strong spiritual roots were either excluded from the event or, in the harshest of cases, removed from their clans altogether¡ªsome even reduced to slavery.
"Toran Samur, age 11 years old, triple spiritual root: Earth 70%, Wood 65%, Fire 50%, Passed."
The crowd buzzed with approval as the boy rejoined his group, his face flushed with pride. The wealthy children were performing well, just as expected.
Then, a boy who looked no different from the others in his fancy clothes approached the orb. He placed his hands on it, and the orb''s light intensified, drawing gasps from the crowd.
"Roran Lareth, age 9 years old, single spiritual root: Fire 90% purity," the immortal announced.
Instantly, the square erupted into excited chatter. A single spiritual root, especially one with such high purity, was a rare and coveted trait. Every sect representative present began clamoring to recruit the boy, their voices overlapping as they made their offers.
"This child must join our sect!"
The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.
"We''ll provide the best resources for his cultivation!"
"Young Roran, consider our sect! We can guarantee your future success!"
Rinne, standing quietly in the children''s line, glanced toward Roran Lareth. His name was familiar to her¡ªhe was one of the righteous cultivators she had encountered in her previous life.
''I remember you. Back then, you were strong, but your strength was nothing against cunning...''
Though powerful, he had been careless, ultimately falling to her poison. The memory stirred a mix of emotions in her as she recalled her dark past.
???
After Rinne had gained the ability to practice cultivation in her second life, things had gone smoothly at first. She dedicated herself to training, practicing day and night to make up for her late start.
She also took up alchemy and talisman crafting, skills that allowed her to support herself in the world of cultivators. However, her progress was slow due to her delayed entry into cultivation.
It wasn¡¯t until she reached the 5th level of Spirit Gathering stage that she noticed something alarming. A tiny bit of her vitality was being mysteriously drained. As she investigated, she discovered that others who had drunk the same strange water as she had were experiencing the same problem.
The cause was soon revealed: they had all ingested a Gu seed, a parasitic insect that acted as a pseudo-spiritual root, enabling them to cultivate.
The Gu seed allowed them to practice, but at a cost. Part of their vitality was consumed by the Gu, and the rest was siphoned off to the cultivator who had distributed the seeds.
Rinne, pragmatic as ever, considered it a fair deal¡ªafter all, the cultivator had given her the opportunity to practice. It was akin to a patent in her previous life, where one paid for the privilege of using someone else¡¯s invention.
However, not everyone shared her view. Many considered the use of Gu to be an evil practice, and eventually, the cultivator responsible was besieged by righteous forces. When the Gu parent was killed, all those who had consumed the child Gu suffered severe backlash.
Fortunately, Rinne had anticipated this outcome.
She had purchased a soul suppression technique from the market, and when the cultivator was under siege, she quickly used it to suppress and kill the Gu inside her. But the Gu did not go down easily; it counterattacked viciously, lashing out with all the force it could muster.
Rinne was left severely injured, teetering on the brink of death as she battled the parasite within her. Her vitality drained rapidly, and it took every ounce of her willpower to finally eliminate the Gu.
Though she survived, the encounter left her weakened and unable to cultivate further with that method. Many others, including several of her acquaintances, were not so lucky¡ªthey died in the ensuing chaos.
That day marked the beginning of Rinne¡¯s path as an evil cultivator.
Her impression of the so-called righteous cultivators had soured, and she came to see them with a mixture of hatred and disdain.
???
Among those who had participated in the siege was the boy with the single fire root¡ªRoran Lareth.
However, as she watched the young Roran now, she realized something profound. The anger and hatred that had driven her for so long, fueling her path as an evil cultivator, had long since dissipated.
''...Now, I don¡¯t feel the same hatred I once did.''
Rinne sighed inwardly.
She had lived through two lifetimes, and the intense emotions that once controlled her had faded. The desire for revenge, the bitterness toward the righteous cultivators, all of it seemed distant now, like a shadow from another time.
Rinne found that she did not hate Roran or any of the others who had been part of the siege. They had simply been doing what they believed was right, just as she had done what she felt was necessary to survive.
In fact, when she reflected on her past actions, she knew she was far from innocent. The things she had done as an evil cultivator were dark and terrible, and in many ways, she had been just as much a villain as those who had hunted her.
The hatred that once burned so fiercely within her had been replaced by a deep sense of understanding and acceptance. She no longer saw herself as a victim, nor did she view those who opposed her as mere enemies. They were all players in the same complex game, each trying to navigate the harsh realities of the cultivation world.
But now, all Rinne wanted was to stay inconspicuous and hidden. She had no desire to draw attention to herself, nor did she care about the ongoing conflicts between righteous and evil cultivators.
Her knowledge, accumulated over two lifetimes, was more than enough to support herself comfortably without resorting to robbery or other nefarious means. The world could continue its endless cycle of battles and bloodshed¡ªRinne would simply watch from the shadows, uninterested in playing any further role in it.
Her lips curled into a faint smile.
''Let the world continue without me. I¡¯ll find my place in the shadows, where I can live in peace.''
Rinne straightened her posture, resolving to blend in as best as she could among the other children. She had no desire to stand out, no interest in the rewards that cultivation might bring. Her path was different now¡ªa path of quiet, inconspicuous survival.
???
The ceremony continued, and after the wealthy children had their turn, it was time for the poorer kids to be tested. Unlike the wealthy children, the poorer ones didn¡¯t have surnames.
To distinguish between children with the same first name, the announcers used their father''s name. For those who didn''t know their father''s name, the tool integrated a simple divination method to identify it. For some, this was the first time they learned who their father was, though the revelation brought little comfort.
However, as expected, the results for these children were mostly poor.
¡°Jarin, child of Rurik, 9 years old, four spiritual roots, low purity, passed.¡±
¡°No spiritual root, failed.¡±
¡°No spiritual root, failed.¡±
¡°Lona, child of Garel, 8 years old, five spiritual roots, low purity, passed.¡±
¡°No spiritual root, failed.¡±
The announcer¡¯s tone was flat as he delivered the results.
For those with four or five spiritual roots and low purity, he didn¡¯t bother mentioning the specific percentages. Everyone knew that even if they passed, their position within a sect would never compare to those with double, triple, or single spiritual roots.
Most of them would likely be eliminated during the second or third test, relegated to the role of handymen in whatever sect they could find.
For those with no spiritual roots, the announcer didn''t even say their names. They simply stepped back into the crowd, heads bowed, knowing they had no place in the cultivation world.
Finally, it was Rinne¡¯s turn.
Rinne stepped forward, her expression calm as she stretched out her hand toward the orb. The announcer noticed her hand was bandaged but didn¡¯t think much of it. As she touched the orb, she immediately simulated the spiritual energies of fire, water, wood, and earth within herself, just as she had planned.
¡°Rinne, child of Faron, 7 years old, four spiritual roots, low purity, passed,¡±
Rinne¡¯s lips curled into a small smile.
''It worked.''
After she regressed to her third life, Rinne had carefully designed a plan to attend the recruitment ceremony and pass the spiritual root test. As soon as she turned seven, she left her home, smuggling herself onto a merchant caravan passing through the village where she was born.
She nearly starved for a week until the caravan reached Elaria, the closest town where the recruitment would take place.
Unfortunately, when she arrived in Elaria, she couldn¡¯t find any work.
Being so young and dirty, no one was willing to hire her, fearing she would bring trouble. Still, some kind-hearted people gave her food, though they shooed her away afterward. Rinne survived by begging and killing rats for a few months until the recruitment day arrived.
''Surviving is what I¡¯m good at...''
Rinne thought, recalling those difficult months.
As for passing the spiritual root test, she had relied on a blood talisman. It was a shortened version of the evil blood sacrifice talisman, which could be activated even by mortals, but required the user''s vitality as fuel.
She had painstakingly drawn a complex symbol on a parched rat skin using rat blood. When the talisman was complete, she hid it inside the bandage on her hand, ready to be activated with a thought.
The talisman didn¡¯t perform any miraculous feat¡ªit simply extracted a small amount of vital energy from a living creature and converted it into spiritual energy of four attributes. The target was herself.
Why not five attributes? Simple. The skin didn¡¯t have enough room.
The amount of vitality the talisman absorbed was small, which was why the tool detected it as low-purity roots. But it was enough to pass, and Rinne wasn¡¯t about to waste any more of her vitality.
With the first test behind her, Rinne quietly joined the group of children with four and five spiritual roots. She kept her head down, avoiding eye contact with the others.
''I¡¯ve passed... Now, just stay inconspicuous, hidden. I have no need for glory or power. My knowledge is more than enough to support myself comfortably without resorting to theft or violence. As for the endless conflict between the righteous and the evil...''
She glanced at the other children around her, noting their nervous or excited expressions.
''Let them have their battles. I don¡¯t care anymore.''
And so, Rinne stood among the other children, waiting for the ceremony to conclude. She had passed the first test¡ªnow it was time to see what would come next.
Chapter 003 - The Second Trial Begin
The recruitment ceremony continued, and soon enough, the children¡¯s group was finished. On the other side of the town square, the teenagers also wrapped up their test. There were a few familiar names among the successful candidates, but Rinne only glanced at them, losing interest almost immediately.
The announcer stepped forward, his voice resonating through the square once more, amplified by spiritual energy. His tone was calm, yet it carried an air of authority that demanded attention.
"Those who have passed the first trial, you now have a short time to bid farewell to your families. The path you walk from here will be long and arduous, and it may be years before you see them again. Use this time wisely."
The participants began to disperse, finding their families in the crowd. Some hugged their parents tightly, tears in their eyes, while others exchanged solemn words and promises. A few were eager, excited about the future that awaited them, but even they couldn¡¯t escape the bittersweet moment of parting.
Rinne, however, stood alone, she had no one to bid farewell to, as she had technically run away from home.
Around her, the square buzzed with activity. Parents, siblings, and even friends crowded around the successful candidates, offering words of encouragement and teary farewells.
One mother whispered to her son, wiping away tears as she embraced him tightly.
"Be good, and make us proud."
A father sternly advised his daughter, though his voice trembled with emotion.
"Remember, always follow the teachings and respect your seniors."
A young boy vowed to his little sister, who clung to him, reluctant to let go.
"I''ll write to you every month, I promise."
Rinne observed the scene, feeling a pang of something she couldn¡¯t quite name.
''I wonder if they¡¯re sad now that I¡¯m gone, or maybe they¡¯re mad.''
But she quickly dismissed the thought. With several siblings at home, and considering she wasn¡¯t particularly valued, her absence might not even matter.
Perhaps they¡¯re happy, even relieved, with one less mouth to feed. The idea of them being happier without her presence was bittersweet. Rinne couldn¡¯t help but recall that in three years, famine would strike, and her family had survived by selling her into slavery.
''Maybe I should just send them some money when the time comes. The same amount they got for selling me... then, my obligation would be paid off.''
But something gnawed at her conscience.
''No, it¡¯s not as simple as that. I should ensure they¡¯re well taken care of.''
Rinne let out a soft sigh.
Her thoughts had grown increasingly analytical, molded by years spent in this world. In her previous life, she hadn''t been like this.
Nonetheless, her family had granted her a second chance at life, regardless of their feelings. It¡¯s only right to ensure their well-being¡ªnot to the extent of wealthy, but sufficient enough so that they don''t have to sell their children into slavery.
However, that concern would have to be postponed for now.
???
After about two hours, the announcer returned to the center of the square. His voice once again cut through the noise of the gathering crowd.
"The time has come."
His declaration continued.
"For those who have passed to embark on the next stage of your journey. Gather here, and prepare to board the flying boat.¡±
The participants who had been saying their goodbyes quickly made their way back, forming neat lines as they approached the flying boat that hovered above the square. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and a hint of nervousness as they prepared to leave their old lives behind.
Some were chatting animatedly about the future, while others stood quietly, lost in thought. Rinne noticed a few children holding onto trinkets or talismans their parents had given them for luck.
One boy said with a mix of awe and apprehension.
"It''s finally happening! We''re going to be cultivators."
"Yeah, but what if the next trial is too hard? What if we don''t make it?"
A girl replied, her voice wavering slightly.
"We''ve made it this far... We just have to keep going."
Another child chimed in, trying to sound confident.
Rinne, standing quietly among them, couldn¡¯t help but feel a strange detachment from the excitement. She had been through this process before, albeit in a different way, and knew that the path ahead was far from easy.
Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
When it was time, they were directed to board the flying boat. As the group moved toward the towering vessel, awe and wonder filled the air. For many, this was their first time seeing such a marvel.
A boy exclaimed, eyes wide as he stared up at the massive boat.
"Wow, it''s so big!"
Another asked, excitement bubbling in his voice.
"Do you think we''ll get to fly it someday?"
"I hope so..."
A girl responded, her gaze fixed on the boat with a mix of hope and determination.
But not everyone was caught up in the wonder. It was during this time that another conflict arose.
"Why is this smelly beggar still here?" a voice sneered.
"I didn¡¯t think this beggar could pass."
"You stink! Go away!" another chimed in.
Rinne was taken aback, she couldn''t help but wonder.
''Do I really smell that bad?''
It had been a while since she last bathed, true enough. People often become insensitive to their own odors, and given her past as an evil cultivator who delved deeply into poisons, the smell was nothing to her. But to others, it was clearly unbearable.
Realizing the issue, Rinne quickly walked over to a nearby cultivator, who looked to be a senior disciple of some sect in the Alliance. Although he appeared to be in his early twenties, Rinne knew better than to judge a cultivator by their appearance. His actual age could be far beyond what he looked like.
She noticed the disciple frown slightly as she approached, his expression one of mild disgust as he took in her dirty appearance. But despite his clear discomfort, he still answered her when she spoke.
Rinne asked politely.
"Excuse me, is there a bathroom on the boat?"
The senior disciple¡¯s frown deepened, but he maintained his composure. He explained, his tone neutral but with an undercurrent of irritation.
"This boat is just a transport vehicle, There are no such facilities."
Disappointed but not deterred, Rinne quickly thought of another solution.
"In that case, could you use the Dust Removal technique on me?"
The disciple hesitated for a moment, still looking slightly repelled by the idea of interacting with her further. However, he finally nodded, raising his hand. With a simple wave, he cast the Dust Removal technique. In moments, the grime and stench that clung to Rinne disappeared, leaving her clean and fresh. She could feel the difference immediately and offered the disciple a small, grateful smile.
"Thank you," she said softly.
He nodded in return, though his expression remained distant.
"No need to worry. Focus on the trials ahead. You''ll be fine."
His words were meant to be reassuring, but Rinne only nodded absently.
''If I had prepared a blood talisman for the Dust Removal technique, I wouldn¡¯t have to ask... But even if I did, it¡¯s better not to waste vitality unless absolutely necessary.''
The group finally boarded the flying boat, and soon it lifted off, soaring high above the town.
The journey was peaceful, with most of the participants either marveling at the view or quietly preparing themselves for the next trial. Rinne, too, found herself gazing out at the clouds.
She sat quietly among the other participants as the flying boat continued its journey. During the trip, the senior disciples distributed small pills to each of them.
"This is a Fasting Pill, it will keep you from feeling hungry for the next few days."
One of the disciples explained as he handed Rinne her portion.
Rinne examined the pill, its surface smooth and white, with a faint herbal scent. In her previous life, she had used similar pills when she was on the run or in the middle of intense cultivation sessions. It was a basic but useful item in the cultivation world, especially for those who needed to conserve their energy.
Swallowing the pill, she could feel a slight warmth spreading through her body, a sensation that made her hunger vanish almost instantly.
''This will help.''
Without having to worry about food, she could focus on what was to come.
The tranquility of the journey, however, was only temporary. Soon, they would arrive at the site of the second trial, and the true challenges would begin.
???
It took several hours for the flying boat to arrive at the second trial stage, but the day was still bright. Rinne noted that time here was different from the modern world she once knew. If a day on Earth consisted of 24 hours, then here, it seemed to be about three times longer by the same hourly standards.
Though others used incense sticks to measure time, which lasted about two hours, Rinne couldn¡¯t help but apply her own measurement of hours out of habit. Water clocks and shadow clocks existed as well, but the incense stick was the most popular by far. She knew this world was far larger than Earth, something she had come to realize during her hundreds of years wandering as an evil cultivator in her second life.
As the boat descended, the participants disembarked and found themselves before a mountain that towered high into the sky, with stone steps leading to its summit. Rinne recognized this place from the memories she had extracted using the Soul Searching technique on Roran in her previous life.
The second trial was a test of endurance¡ªclimbing the mountain stairs.
When Rinne was an evil cultivator, she had made it a policy to Soul Search as many enemies as possible. This technique quickly became her favorite. Initially, it was just to gather information, but she soon realized that she could peek into her victims¡¯ lives from the moment of their self-awareness until the moment she used the technique. Through this method, she not only learned their cultivation methods and techniques but also their darkest secrets.
The sheer amount of information would overwhelm most people, but Rinne had invented another technique to store those memories as if they were files, allowing her to view them anytime like watching a movie. It was one of her many innovations during her years of cultivation¡ªthough this, she mused, was a story for another time.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the announcer''s voice.
"The second trial is upon you!"
The announcer declared, his voice booming across the crowd.
"Your task is to climb these stairs. The higher you climb, the greater the pressure you will endure. Now, begin your ascent!"
Rinne took a deep breath.
According to Roran''s memories, he had climbed to the top and been accepted by Elder Soryn from the Azure Sky Sect without needing to participate in the third trial. This trial was essentially a test of how far one could climb, with the pressure increasing the higher they went.
For Rinne, still possessing a mortal body with no true spiritual root, this trial would be impossible to complete. The pressure would be unbearable, and attempting to push herself too far could risk exposing her true nature, especially if they attempted to heal her.
There was no need to insist.
Better to symbolically walk a few steps, then stop and accept her fate as a handyman.
Chapter 004 - During the Second Trial
Other POV:
In the room within the flying boat, a mirror viewing platform was set up, allowing various elders from different sects to comfortably observe the participants during the second trial. The room was abuzz with discussions as the elders evaluated the performances.
The elders present were:
- Elder Zylith from the Golden Scale Sect
- Elder Tyronis from the Whispering Pines Sect
- Elder Hirion from the Silver Mountain Sect
- Elder Talia from the Crimson Wind Sect
- Elder Kyrran from the Shadow Veil Sect
- Elder Zephyr from the Mystic Moon Sect
- Elder Maelis from the Frostfire Sect
- Elder Soryn from the Azure Sky Sect
Each of these elders was a prominent figure in their respective sects, observing the second trial¡¯s progress with great interest.
Elder Hirion''s gaze focused on one of the participants.
"Number 74 shows promise, he''s persevering well,"
"Numbers 7, 25, and 132 are also noteworthy. They refuse to give up easily."
Elder Zylith also added, nodding in agreement.
Of course, while it was true that some participants demonstrated commendable performance, not all participants performed well. Many of them faltered under the pressure and stopped where they stood.
"But overall, the quality of this batch seems disappointing,"
Elder Tyronis commented, his voice tinged with dissatisfaction.
Elder Talia sighed.
"Yes, too many of them are stuck below the 100-step mark. It''s disheartening."
"Well, it¡¯s to be expected in a remote area like this,"
Elder Zylith added.
Elder Kyrran, looking disinterested in the majority of participants, leaned forward.
"Can we shift the mirror¡¯s focus to the top 30 children?"
"I''m afraid not. We must ensure the fairness of the trial."
Elder Soryn shook his head.
While some elders continued to discuss the participants'' performances, others remained silent, disappointed by the overall low quality. By the second trial, nearly 90% of the participants had already been eliminated. Those who failed would not proceed to the third trial. They would be left at the trial site, which was hosted by the Iron Blade Sect. The eliminated participants would have to decide whether to serve as handymen in the Iron Blade Sect or return home on their own. Of course, if any sect chose to take them in, no one would object.
Elder Maelis, observing the participants, turned to his disciple, Faylen, who stood behind him. "What do you think? Have you spotted anyone promising?"
Faylen, who had been intently watching one of the mirrors, was momentarily startled by the question. If Rinne had been present, she would have recognized him as the senior disciple who had performed the Dust Removal technique for her before their departure. Faylen had originally attended the recruitment ceremony simply to accompany Elder Maelis.
As he thought back, he recalled the beggar who had boldly asked him for help before the trip. At that time, Rinne had appeared so androgynous with her short hair and flat chest that he had mistaken her for a boy. That beggar¡¯s boldness had left an impression on him. However, when he searched for the figure in the mirror, he was surprised to find the person near the back of the group, just four from the last. He had expected this ¡°boy¡± to show some promise, but it seemed he was nothing special after all.
Faylen replied after a moment.
"No, this disciple has not seen anyone worth taking,"
"I see. Your intuition is rarely wrong. If you say so, then perhaps it is as you said."
Elder Maelis nodded, trusting his disciple¡¯s judgment.
Hearing Elder Maelis'' words, Faylen felt a momentary urge to respond, but the words caught in his throat. He glanced back at the remaining participants, his interest waning rapidly. Despite the commendable performances from some at the front of the group, none of them seemed to possess the qualities their sect sought.
As time passed, the number of participants still climbing dwindled until only 30 remained¡ªjust as Elder Kyrran had predicted. Among these, Number 74 stood out, steadily making his way toward the top. The elders watched intently as he approached the peak, but just as he was about to reach it, he suddenly stopped in his tracks.
The room grew silent as Number 74 closed his eyes, and a surge of spiritual energy swirled around him, rapidly being absorbed into his body. The phenomenon didn''t go unnoticed by the elders, and a few of them immediately recognized what was happening.
One of the elders exclaimed, his voice filled with astonishment.
"Epiphany! Number 74 is having an epiphany!"
If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
"Who is this Number 74?!"
Another elder demanded, eager to know the identity of the promising participant.
"Roran Lareth, a fire single spiritual root with 90% purity!"
"No wonder, so that''s him!"
Came the answer, causing a ripple of excitement to spread through the room.
Among the excited elders, none were more thrilled than Elder Soryn. His eyes gleamed with anticipation as he watched Roran, recognizing the immense potential this participant possessed.
However, this excitement did not extend to Elder Maelis and Faylen. They remained indifferent, their attention already diverted from the trial. For them, Roran''s performance and potential, though impressive, held no significance.
???
Rinne POV:
As expected, Rinne¡¯s plan unfolded just as she predicted.
She climbed the steps alongside the other children, carefully keeping pace. But she was careful not to draw too much attention, ensuring she wasn¡¯t among the very last or second to last.
''I need to maintain my position, not too fast, not too slow. Just stay in the middle of the pack.''
Around her, the other participants struggled as well. Some gritted their teeth, pushing forward with all their might. Others, however, were less composed.
A wealthy boy whined, his voice tinged with panic.
"Why is this so hard?! I can¡¯t feel my legs!"
"This is impossible! I¡¯m not going any further!"
Another cried, his face pale as he clutched his chest.
Rinne glanced at the wealthier participants, noticing the stark contrast in their reactions compared to the poorer children.
''They¡¯ve been too pampered and never faced real hardship.''
She stood silently, observing one boy who had started crying and another who looked on the verge of vomiting.
Not long after, a sickening smell filled the air as one of the wealthy boys lost control and urinated where he stood. The embarrassment on his face was clear, but he was too weak to care. Another participant, a girl from a wealthy family, fell to her knees, trembling uncontrollably.
Rinne¡¯s own struggle was becoming more apparent with each step. The pressure felt like a crushing weight on her body, making it difficult to breathe. But she knew better than to push herself too far.
As if on cue, a child nearby collapsed, fainting from the strain. Without hesitation, Rinne decided this was her chance. She slowed down, letting herself fall to the ground, pretending to faint as well.
Time passed, and suddenly, there was a commotion at the top of the stairs. Rinne cracked her eyes open, sensing a surge of spiritual energy gathering at the peak.
''This is it. This is the moment Roran had his epiphany.''
From Roran¡¯s memories, she knew exactly what was happening. The boy experienced an epiphany and was about to break through to the 3rd level of Spirit Gathering stage, and once he did, climbing to the peak would be easy for him.
''Roran Lareth... He¡¯s like a typical protagonist straight out of a Xianxia novel.''
Rinne couldn¡¯t help but find the resemblance uncanny. Roran was born into a branch family of a relatively huge clan. His parents had mysteriously disappeared, and the wealth of his family had been usurped by the main branch. The only thing left to him was a necklace, a memento from his mother.
That necklace turned out to be a planting space, a treasure inherited from his maternal family¡¯s ancestral legacy. No grandpa soul in it, but still, it allowed him to grow herbs without any issues.
Roran had been accepted as a disciple of Elder Soryn in the Azure Sky Sect, a large and prestigious sect. There, he learned various cultivation techniques and alchemy. With his planting space and his knowledge of alchemy, Roran never lacked for pills or elixirs.
''He was living the dream of every Xianxia protagonist. But in the end, even he couldn¡¯t escape his fate.''
Rinne remembered the moment she had killed him in her previous life. She had claimed the treasure for herself, but to her frustration, the planting space could only be used by someone with Roran¡¯s maternal family bloodline. It had been utterly useless to her.
The content of Roran''s epiphany was etched in her mind. It involved a profound understanding of the Spirit Gathering manual¡ªhow to absorb and control spiritual energy, and how to integrate it into the dantian. Roran had tailored the technique to his fire spiritual root, optimizing it to absorb fire-attribute spiritual energy, accelerating his cultivation speed. Unfortunately, most of it was irrelevant to Rinne since she lacked any spiritual root.
However, the inner breathing technique within the epiphany was incredibly useful. It was this method that allowed her to persevere through the trial without fainting. As she lay there pretending to be unconscious, she instinctively regulated her breathing to restore her stamina.
As the spiritual energy concentrated at the peak, the oppressive pressure on the stairs suddenly lessened. The trial became much easier to endure. Realizing this and noting that she had recovered most of her stamina, a thought crossed her mind.
''Should I climb higher? If I reach the 200th step, I can become an outer disciple. That would be much easier than being a handyman.''
If she could became an outer disciple, there was no reason for her to endure the hardships of being a handyman. As for aiming for inner disciple status, she didn''t dare as it was too risky. If an elder examined her closely, they might discover her lack of spiritual roots.
Her mind made up, Rinne slowly rose to her feet. She ignored the participants lying on the steps, some of whom had truly fainted, and began climbing again.
A nearby participant murmured, clearly exhausted.
"Is he getting up again?!"
"I thought he was done for..."
Another participant also said with disbelief in his voice.
Rinne paid them no mind, focusing solely on reaching her goal. The steps passed by one after another until finally, she reached the 200th step. She let out a breath of relief as she saw the 200 mark.
''Good. This is far enough. There¡¯s no need to push further.''
She sat down, her body relaxing as she took in the view from the 200th step. She glanced up at the steps above, recalling what she knew from Roran¡¯s memories.
''After the 300th step, the trial introduces illusions. They test the participants¡¯ inner heart. I remember a few people who had embarrassing experiences during this trial¡ªlosing control, crying, even soiling themselves like the one below. It¡¯s a tough trial.''
As these idle thoughts crossed her mind, Rinne let herself relax fully. Her body, exhausted from the climb, needed rest.
''I¡¯ll just sleep until the trial ends. There¡¯s no need to do anything more.''
With that, Rinne closed her eyes and drifted off into a light sleep, content with her progress.
Chapter 005 - Echoes of the Past
Roran''s POV:
Roran was born into the Lareth branch family, a lesser yet respected part of the larger Lareth clan.
His early years were marked by happiness, living comfortably with his parents in their modest estate. His cousin, Arin, who was one year younger, was his closest companion. The two of them shared a bond that seemed unbreakable, often spending their days playing in the gardens, exploring the woods, and even taking baths together under the watchful eyes of their parents.
Their relationship was innocent, filled with the pure joy of childhood. Whether it was climbing trees, chasing each other through the fields, or simply sitting by the river talking about their dreams, they were inseparable.
Did they harbor feelings of love for one another? They were too young to understand such complexities, but their bond was undeniably strong.
As a child of the Lareth family, Roran was naturally introduced to the world of cultivation early on. Though he wasn¡¯t allowed to begin his training just yet, the concept of cultivation fascinated him. He knew it meant strength, longevity, and perhaps most importantly, the ability to protect those he cared about. He often dreamed of the day he would start his training, imagining the power he would wield. His parents ensured he was well-prepared for that day, feeding him nutritious meals and soaking him in medicinal baths to fortify his young body.
By all accounts, his future seemed bright. He would start cultivating at the age of ten, participate in the Immortal Alliance recruitment ceremony, and, with luck, join a prestigious sect that would guide his development.
But everything changed when he was nine.
One day, without warning, his parents mysteriously disappeared. There were no signs of a struggle, no notes left behind, just an empty house and a sense of dread that settled over young Roran. He was confused and scared, unsure of what to do or where to turn. Days turned into weeks, and still, there was no word from his parents.
Amidst this chaos, Arin came to visit him. Her expression was unusually somber, her usual cheerfulness replaced by an awkward silence. When she finally spoke, her voice was barely above a whisper.
"Brother Roran... I''m sorry."
Before he could ask what she meant, she turned and left, leaving him standing in the doorway, bewildered and alone.
At first, he didn¡¯t understand. But it didn¡¯t take long for the pieces to fall into place. His uncle, Eirik, who had always been kind to him, suddenly took over the estate, claiming it was his duty to manage the family¡¯s wealth and resources in the absence of Roran¡¯s parents. Under the clan''s law, Eirik was now Roran¡¯s guardian, and by extension, the steward of everything his parents had left behind.
Eirik pretended to care, offering hollow words of comfort as he stripped Roran of his birthright, with a practiced smile.
"It¡¯s for your own good, Roran. You¡¯re still young, and you need someone to manage these affairs until you¡¯re of age."
"Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll make sure everything is taken care of."
But Roran saw through the facade.
He knew this was nothing more than a calculated move to seize power and wealth. The clan had already declared his parents dead, despite their bodies never being found. It was too convenient, too well-timed.
''Why are they so certain my parents are dead? This is a conspiracy, but what can I do? I¡¯m just a child¡''
Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!
Roran¡¯s resolve hardened in the days that followed. He couldn¡¯t accept this injustice, but he was powerless to stop it. All he had left was his mother¡¯s ancestral heirloom necklace, a strange trinket that he could only hope held some hidden power or secret.
His only option now was to attend the recruitment ceremony of the Immortal Alliance and join a powerful sect. With their backing, he could perhaps find out what truly happened to his parents and reclaim what was rightfully his.
But there was no way he could join the ceremony in his birth town. If word got back to his clan, Eirik would surely find a way to interfere. No, he needed to travel to another town, somewhere far from the Lareth family¡¯s influence.
Clutching his mother¡¯s necklace and the few silver coins he had managed to save, Roran left the only home he had ever known. He boarded a caravan heading to a distant town, determined to attend the recruitment ceremony on time and begin his journey toward reclaiming his destiny.
And then, about a month later.
Roran successfully attended the recruitment ceremony at Elaria Town.
When his fire attribute spiritual root with 90% purity was announced, he remained calm. He was already aware of his spiritual root''s quality, having been regularly examined by his parents. It was thanks to the medicinal baths that his spiritual root''s purity reached this high.
''If only things had gone as planned, another year of medicinal baths and my purity could have reached 95%.''
He knew well the importance of this 5% difference. It wasn''t just numbers¡ªit was the time needed to progress in cultivation. A person with a 90% pure spiritual root could reach Foundation Establishment in about ten years, but with 95%, it would take only eight.
''This gap will only widen as I advance, but life has forced my hand. If Mother hadn''t disappeared...''
He couldn''t help but lament the loss.
She was the only one who knew how to concoct the special medicinal bath. He''d watched her prepare it, but at that age, he lacked the alchemical knowledge to understand. By the time he could have learned alchemy and reached the 1st stage as an alchemist, the details would have faded from his mind, irretrievable.
Unless someone used a soul search technique on him.
The second trial was a test of endurance¡ªclimbing the stairs to the peak of the mountain. His parents'' body tempering preparations had not been in vain; he reached the 200-step mark with relative ease. But the difficulty increased exponentially after that. At the 300-step mark, he was suddenly thrust into an illusion.
In the illusion, he was back with Arin, his childhood sweetheart cousin. His parents were present, and his uncle was the kind man he remembered. He and Arin married, had two children, and lived a peaceful life. For a moment, it felt real, almost too real.
"Is this the life I could have had?"
He couldn''t help but wonder.
But he remembered his purpose, the reason he was here. With a heavy heart, he shattered the illusion with sheer willpower. Arin looked sad as the world crumbled, but she smiled at him and said,
"Good luck, brother Roran."
Stunned, Roran replied, "Yeah..."
But as he spoke, he was already back on the stairs, with a pang of sadness lingering.
''She probably didn''t even hear me..''
Determined, he continued the ascent.
The 400th step, the 500th, the 600th¡ªeach milestone brought a new illusion. He lived many lives in those illusions¡ªbecoming a wealthy merchant, traveling the world, experiencing love and loss. But every time, he shattered the illusions, remembering his true goal: to join a sect, to cultivate, and to find his parents.
Suddenly, his mind cleared, and he sensed his body absorbing spiritual power at an incredible rate.
It was an epiphany¡ªa state that was rare and highly coveted, yet impossible to seek out intentionally. Many cultivators yearned for it, but few ever experienced it. Roran, at just nine years old, was one of the fortunate few.
He couldn¡¯t control his body, all he could do was sit down and let the process unfold. His mind marveled at the sensation of the knowledge he had learned being refreshed with a deeper understanding. This profound experience went on for some time, and he lost track of how long it lasted.
Suddenly, unfamiliar knowledge began to surface in his mind, knowledge that shocked him when he recognized its origin.
When the epiphany finally ended, Roran found himself at the 3rd level of Spirit Gathering stage. However, as he opened his eyes, his expression turned stern.
"The Calamity Witch..."
The unfamiliar knowledge he now recognized as memories from his previous life, right up until his death.
Chapter 006 - The Calamity Witch
Roran POV:
Roran¡¯s fingers tightened around the ancestral necklace, a cherished relic from his maternal family.
The cold metal pressed against his chest, a tangible link to a past that felt both distant and painfully present. This necklace was not just an heirloom; it was his sole anchor to the world he had lost and the source of his strength to persevere.
For years, the necklace had been a symbol of hope and determination. It was the one thing that reminded him of his family''s legacy and fueled his drive to uncover the truth about his parents¡¯ mysterious disappearance.
???
In his previous life, Roran had discovered the necklace''s true function under unexpected circumstances.
He remembered vividly how he had joined the Azure Sky Sect, one of the most prestigious sects within the Immortal Alliance, after Elder Soryn, a respected figure in the sect, took notice of his potential and invited him to become his personal disciple. The Azure Sky Sect was renowned for its vast influence and resources, making it the perfect place for Roran to seek answers about his family¡¯s fate.
Without hesitation, Roran had accepted Elder Soryn¡¯s offer. Under the sect¡¯s protection, he was free to focus entirely on his cultivation. The Azure Sky Sect provided him with access to their finest fire-attribute cultivation techniques, including the Blazing Inferno Method. This Earth-grade mid-tier technique allowed practitioners to refine their spiritual energy into a blazing inferno, significantly enhancing their offensive capabilities and cultivation speed. The rigorous training regimen required cultivating in extreme heat, which tempered both body and soul.
In addition to the Blazing Inferno Method, Roran trained in various Earth-grade fire-attribute martial arts such as Flame Serpent Palm and Lava Burst Technique¡ªskills typically reserved for core and personal disciples. The intensive training and access to these techniques accelerated his growth, and within three years, he had become a formidable cultivator.
It was during the Immortal Alliance''s competition that fate took an unexpected turn. Injured in the fray, Roran''s blood stained the necklace. To his astonishment, the necklace revealed its true nature as a planting space. This hidden function opened up a realm where he could cultivate herbs and refine alchemical ingredients with unparalleled efficiency.
Seizing this opportunity, Roran delved into the art of alchemy, quickly rising to become a 1st-grade alchemist within a month. The abundance of pills and elixirs at his disposal allowed him to sustain his cultivation without hindrance. As the years passed, Roran¡¯s skills flourished, and by the age of nineteen, he had reached the Foundation Establishment stage.
Despite his rapid advancement, Roran''s original goal remained clear: finding his parents.
To achieve this, he needed substantial contribution points. Elder Soryn, recognizing Roran¡¯s determination, provided him with a pathway. With the elder¡¯s recommendation, Roran joined the Shadowbane Order¡ªa division of the Immortal Alliance dedicated to hunting and exterminating evil cultivators. Membership in this order was both prestigious and significant, offering him the chance to earn contribution points through missions and combat.
With his new position, Roran was not only able to accumulate contribution points more efficiently but also took the opportunity to confront his uncle. Determined to reclaim his family''s wealth, Roran used his authority within the Shadowbane Order to pressure his uncle, Eirik Lareth, into handing over the assets that rightfully belonged to his parents.
The process of reclaiming his parents'' assets ran more smoothly than Roran had anticipated, though not without its challenges. His uncle, Eirik, initially resisted, unwilling to relinquish the wealth he had usurped.
"If you think you can just waltz in here and take what¡¯s mine, you¡¯re sorely mistaken."
"What¡¯s yours? Everything you have belongs to my parents. You stole it, and now I¡¯m taking it back."
Roran met his uncle¡¯s gaze with unwavering determination.
Eirik scoffed, his aura intensifying as he prepared to unleash his strength.
"Do you really think you, a mere 1st Foundation Establishment cultivator, can take me on? I¡¯m at the peak of the 6th Foundation Establishment stage! You¡¯re out of your depth, boy."
"I didn¡¯t come alone, Uncle. I came with the backing of the Shadowbane Order."
Roran remained calm, his voice steady.
At Roran¡¯s signal, his squadron members stepped forward, their combined presence creating an overwhelming pressure that made Eirik falter. Realizing the futility of resistance, Eirik¡¯s defiance crumbled. He clenched his fists, his expression twisted in anger and frustration, but he knew he had no choice but to comply.
Eirik spat, his voice laced with bitterness.
"Fine, take it all then. But remember, Roran, this isn¡¯t over."
"It was over the moment you betrayed our family."
Roran nodded, his expression devoid of emotion.
As Roran and his squadron began the process of reclaiming the estate, he encountered Arin Lareth, his childhood sweetheart. She stood in the hallway, her eyes wide with a mix of surprise and joy upon seeing him.
Arin¡¯s voice trembled as she took a step forward.
"Brother Roran¡ is it really you?"
"It¡¯s me, Arin..."
Roran replied, his tone softening for the first time that day.
But as Arin approached, her expression changed, the realization of his purpose sinking in. She said, gesturing to the house that had been her home for years.
"You¡¯re here for... this. You¡¯ve come to take it back."
"I have to. It belongs to my family."
Roran nodded.
Arin¡¯s initial joy faded, replaced by a calm acceptance.
"I understand."
She watched in silence as Roran¡¯s squadron evicted her family from the estate, her face a mask of composure. When the task was done, and Roran was about to leave, Arin called out to him.
"Brother Roran, wait."
He turned to face her, seeing the maturity that had transformed her into a fine lady. Her cultivation had also progressed; she was now at the 4th Spirit Gathering stage. They stood together in the courtyard, the air heavy with unspoken emotions.
Roran said, his voice tinged with regret.
"I didn¡¯t expect things to turn out this way,"
"Neither did I... But life has a way of changing us, doesn¡¯t it?"
They reminisced about their shared childhood, recalling the days when they were carefree and inseparable.
Despite the tension between their families, an unspoken agreement passed between them¡ªto leave the bitterness behind, if only for a moment, and speak as the friends they once were.
"I attended the Immortal Alliance recruitment ceremony in our birth town... It wasn¡¯t an easy path, but I¡¯ve managed. What about you?"
"I¡¯ve joined the Azure Sky Sect, I¡¯m¡ making progress."
Roran said, avoiding the details of his journey.
Arin gave a small, sad smile.
"I¡¯m glad to hear that."
As Roran turned to leave, Arin suddenly stepped forward and kissed him on the mouth. It was a gentle, fleeting kiss, filled with all the emotions she couldn¡¯t express in words.
When she pulled away, tears glistened in her eyes.
"Brother Roran, I¡¯m about to get married. I¡¯m glad my first kiss was with you."
Roran stood there, stunned, as Arin walked away, her words echoing in his mind.
An unfamiliar emotion welled up inside him, something he couldn¡¯t quite identify. The memory of the illusion he had faced during the second trial¡ªthe one where they had been married¡ªresurfaced, leaving him conflicted.
This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.
"Am I¡ in love with her?"
He wondered silently. But the reality of their positions weighed heavily on him, and he knew that being together was impossible.
A few weeks later, Arin¡¯s marriage took place. Roran did not attend the wedding, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to face her or the life she was about to start without him. The pain of her departure lingered, plunging him into a deep depression. For an entire month, he neglected his training and cultivation, lost in a haze of sorrow and regret.
Elder Soryn, noticing the drastic change in his disciple, summoned Roran to his chambers. The elder¡¯s wise eyes observed Roran with concern as he spoke.
"Roran, I can see that something is troubling you deeply. This kind of emotional turmoil can be dangerous for a cultivator. It can lead to the development of an inner demon, which could hinder your progress¡ªor worse."
"I don¡¯t know what to do, Elder. I¡ I can¡¯t stop thinking about her."
Roran lowered his head, unable to meet his mentor¡¯s gaze.
Elder Soryn nodded understandingly.
"Heartache is a part of life, but you must not let it consume you. You need to find a way to move forward, to focus on something that will help you heal."
"What should I do, Elder?"
Roran asked, his voice filled with desperation.
Elder Soryn placed a reassuring hand on Roran¡¯s shoulder.
"Perhaps you should occupy yourself with something that requires your full attention. I suggest taking on more missions with the Shadowbane Order. Hunting evil cultivators will not only help you accumulate contribution points but also allow you to channel your emotions into something productive. It¡¯s an important duty, and it may be just what you need to forget the pain."
"I¡¯ll do as you suggest, Elder. I¡¯ll focus on the missions."
Roran nodded, grasping the lifeline his mentor offered.
With renewed determination, Roran threw himself into his duties, diligently hunting down evil cultivators. The thrill of battle and the satisfaction of purging the wicked temporarily numbed the pain in his heart. For several years, Roran became known as a fierce protector, a cultivator who showed no mercy to those who threatened the peace.
With each mission, his cultivation advanced steadily, and over time, he reached the Core Formation stage¡ªa significant milestone that solidified his reputation as a formidable force within the cultivation world.
But then, everything changed when the Calamity Witch appeared.
???
The Calamity Witch.
A name that strikes fear into the hearts of all, whether they are righteous cultivators or practitioners of the darkest arts.
She was a legend whispered about in secret gatherings, her infamy spread across the cultivation world like wildfire. Her presence sent shockwaves through the cultivation world, disrupting the delicate balance that Roran and others like him had fought so hard to maintain. The path that Roran had carved out for himself, the progress he had made, and the peace he had found were all thrown into chaos by this new and insurmountable threat.
No one knew her true identity, her original name, or even her real appearance. She was a master of disguise, capable of assuming countless identities, slipping into and out of the most secure places unnoticed. This ability to blend in, to become anyone, added to the chilling uncertainty that surrounded her. The only consistent truth that emerged from the countless stories and encounters was that she was female¡ªa woman whose heart had turned as cold and dark as the abyss itself.
The Calamity Witch was not just any cultivator¡ªshe was a master of the four sacred arts of cultivation: alchemy, formations, talismans, and metal refining. Her prowess in these arts was unrivaled, making her a formidable opponent on any battlefield. But it was not her mastery of these arts that truly terrifies those who speak of her.
It was her cultivation method¡ªa dark and forbidden technique known as the Blood Essence Devourment Technique.
This sinister method allowed her to absorb the life force and spiritual essence of her victims, using their vitality to propel her own cultivation forward at an alarming rate. The Blood Essence Devourment Technique was exceptionally powerful, enabling rapid advancements in cultivation that most could only dream of. However, it was a path fraught with unimaginable consequences.
Continuous use of the Blood Essence Devourment Technique erodes the practitioner''s morality, turning them into a ruthless, cold-blooded monster who views life as nothing more than fuel for their ambitions. The practitioner becomes increasingly detached from humanity, their conscience slowly withering away under the weight of the countless lives they have consumed.
But the cost was not just moral. The practitioner must endure the constant resentment of their victims, whose souls remain tethered to the practitioner, their hatred a festering wound in the practitioner''s mind. This leads to emotional instability, driving the practitioner further into madness. And as if that were not enough, the karmic repercussions of the technique are severe. The more life force the practitioner devours, the more they attract heavenly tribulations, curses, and other supernatural consequences that could bring about their downfall.
Over time, the practitioner becomes dependent on the technique, requiring more and more life essence to maintain their power. This creates a vicious cycle of destruction and cultivation, where the practitioner is forced to kill again and again to avoid losing their hard-earned strength. It was a method that can grant rapid advancement in cultivation, but at the cost of one''s soul.
The Immortal Alliance has long banned this technique, and anyone found practicing it is hunted down and killed on sight.
The horrors of the Blood Essence Devourment Technique were fully exhibited by the Calamity Witch. She was a living nightmare, feared by all who crossed her path. Her ruthlessness knew no bounds. She would immobilize her enemies, rob them of all their possessions¡ªleaving them with nothing, not even their underwear¡ªand then drain their energy to fuel her cultivation. The victims were left naked, shriveled into mummies, crumbling into dust at the slightest touch, leaving no trace of their existence.
This was not mere rumor or hearsay. The truth of her deeds was recorded in the life stones of her victims, which captured their final moments in harrowing detail. Those who watched these recordings could only shudder in fear, knowing that the Calamity Witch was real, and that she was out there, somewhere, waiting to strike again.
But perhaps what made the Calamity Witch truly terrifying was her cunning.
She was not reckless, she knew when to fight and when to flee. If she encountered a cultivator stronger than herself or one with a prominent background and strong defenses, she would retreat without hesitation. But her retreat was not the end. She would infiltrate the background of her would-be victim¡ªtheir clan, their sect, or any force that supported them¡ªand begin her killing spree. She preferred not to draw attention to her actions, instead killing silently, methodically, leaving a trail of death that might not be discovered until it was too late.
By the time her main target realized what had happened, they would often find themselves alone, their family, clan, or sect decimated, their foundation destroyed from within. This was the true terror of the Calamity Witch. She was not just a cultivator¡ªshe was a harbinger of doom, a force that could not be stopped once set in motion.
Roran was not the first victim of the Calamity Witch, but he was among the earliest.
During one of his missions, he suddenly received urgent news¡ªhis Lareth clan had been exterminated. Panic gripped his heart as he raced back to his birthplace, a sense of foreboding gnawing at him.
When he arrived in the town, the atmosphere was eerily quiet. The entire town was under military alert, with every shop and building closed, except for those belonging to the Lareth clan. Even those buildings stood open, but they were empty, as if hastily abandoned. The eerie stillness felt like a void, swallowing all signs of life.
Roran''s heart pounded as he made his way to the clan¡¯s settlement, where he found only emptiness. No servants, no animals, no signs of life at all. His family home, once bustling with activity, was now a hollow shell, ransacked and devoid of anything valuable. Even the servants he had hired to maintain the house had vanished without a trace.
Turmoil brewed within Roran. Despite the clan¡¯s treatment of him, it was still the place he grew up, the foundation of his past. Desperation took hold as he scanned the entire settlement with his spiritual power. There was no one in the entire area¡ªexcept for one person lying in the ancestral hall.
Roran¡¯s heart raced as he rushed to the hall, fearing the worst. When he arrived, he found Arin lying on the ground. A strange formation, one he didn¡¯t recognize, was drawn beneath her.
Worry eclipsed all reason as he approached her, trying to wake her up.
"Arin!"
Roran¡¯s voice trembled with worry as he knelt beside her, gently shaking her shoulders. Her skin was pale, her breath shallow, and her clothes were disheveled as if she had been in a struggle.
If he had been thinking clearly, he would have recognized the situation as a trap. Perhaps he should have brought reinforcements or at least hesitated before entering alone. But his concern for Arin clouded his judgment. The moment he stepped into the room, the trap sprang shut¡ªhis spiritual power was suppressed, and he found himself unable to leave.
Arin¡¯s eyes fluttered open, and she looked at Roran with a weak, frightened expression. Her voice was frail, her hand trembling as she reached out to him.
"Brother Roran¡ You must run¡"
"Arin, are you okay? What happened?"
Roran asked, his voice filled with desperation as he clasped her hand, trying to reassure her.
Arin looked fragile and scared as she tried to sit up, her breath coming in ragged gasps.
"Everyone¡ everyone here is¡"
She trailed off, her eyes filling with tears as she reached out to touch his face.
Roran leaned closer, trying to catch her faint words, but the moment her fingers brushed his forehead, her voice twisted into a sinister tone.
"¡killed by me."
"You! You are not¡ª"
A cold shiver ran down Roran¡¯s spine. He pulled back, his eyes wide with shock. But it was too late, Roran¡¯s words were cut off as his vision blurred, and his memory ended abruptly.
???
The nine-year-old Roran awoke from his reminiscence, understanding all too well what had likely happened next: his death. The truth was bitter and painful, knowing that the next target of the witch¡¯s wrath was likely the Azure Sky Sect.
Roran clenched his fists, a storm of emotions raging within him. He hadn¡¯t lived long enough in his past life to know if the witch was ever defeated or to uncover her true motives. But that no longer mattered. What mattered now was that the threat of the Calamity Witch had to be eradicated.
''How dare she use Arin¡¯s appearance?''
His mind replayed the scene in the ancestral hall over and over again. Arin¡¯s terrified face, her trembling voice, and the way she reached out to him¡ªall of it was seared into his memory. But beneath the fear, there was something else, something that gnawed at him: a deep, gnawing regret.
In his previous life, he hadn¡¯t realized his feelings for Arin until it was too late. He had been too focused on his cultivation, on reclaiming his family¡¯s legacy, and on avenging the wrongs done to him. But now, with the clarity of hindsight, he understood. He was in love with her, and he had let her slip through his fingers.
Never again.
Roran vowed silently to himself.
"This time, things will be different. I will reclaim my strength, I will reach Foundation Establishment first, and when I do, I will claim Arin as mine."
The thought gave him a fierce sense of determination.
He would become strong enough to protect her, to protect everyone he cared about. He would not let the past repeat itself. The Calamity Witch might have been a formidable foe, but Roran had the advantage of foresight, and he intended to use it to its fullest.
The heavens had given him a second chance, and he would not squander it.
He already knew the path to power, and this time, he would walk it with a purpose that transcended his own ambitions. He would save his clan, protect the Azure Sky Sect, and when the time was right, he would find Arin and make her his. No one, not even a monstrous witch, would stand in his way.
Chapter 007 - The Witchs Reflection
Rinne stirred as the final announcement for the second trial faded into the air, signaling the end of her brief rest.
She blinked, the remnants of a dream still clinging to her consciousness¡ªa dream that wasn¡¯t so much a dream as a vivid recollection of her past life.
In that life, she had been an evil cultivator, a predator who hunted without remorse or hesitation. When she targeted someone, the path she took depended on their strength and connections. If her target was weak and insignificant, it was a simple matter¡ªa quick, clean kill that left no traces.
But if her target was powerful, surrounded by a web of allies, family, or sect members who would seek vengeance, her approach was different. She would start by dismantling their influence, one connection at a time.
It was a methodical and strategic process, akin to playing a stealth game in the modern world.
''It¡¯s strange how easily the past can surface, like an old game reloaded into a new console. I remember playing Tenchu or Assassin''s Creed series, where I kill the target while trying to be unnoticed. But perhaps, Hitman series was probably the closest to reality.''
She reproduced the way she completed a certain mission in the game, with the challenge of killing everyone and remaining unseen.
''Each target had a pattern, a routine, and it was my job to find the weak spot, take advantage of the environment, and kill them without anyone knowing.''
But when she killed, it wasn''t just a simple kill, that would be too wasteful.
She first had to immobilize the victim by using traps, poison or other methods, leaving them vulnerable and unable to resist. This step was crucial to ensure she could use the soul search technique without interference.
Once the target was immobilized, she would use the soul search technique to extract their memories, skills, and experiences. This step was crucial for gathering the necessary information to enhance her own capabilities. It was through this method that she had amassed an unparalleled wealth of knowledge, learning countless techniques that were otherwise monopolized by powerful clans and sects.
And after that, she used the Blood Essence Devourment Technique, a forbidden art that allowed her to absorb her victim¡¯s essence, converting it into spiritual energy that fueled her cultivation. It was like gaining experience points in a game, leveling up with each kill.
Eventually, she grew tired of performing the three steps separately. It was time-consuming and inefficient.
So, after she searched relevant methods, she created a new technique, which she named Soul Harvest Technique, a culmination of her efforts to streamline the process, combining Soul Bind Technique, Soul Search Technique, and Blood Essence Devourment Technique into one efficient action.
''Efficiency was key! Why waste time on separate processes when you can merge them into a single, potent action? It was perfect for someone like me, always seeking the quickest path to power.''
However, the Blood Essence Devourment Technique came with a heavy price. It was not a healthy technique by any means. The spiritual energy she absorbed was volatile, often wreaking havoc on her body, particularly on her heart, where she stored the energy in the absence of a spiritual root. The pain was constant, a reminder of the unnatural forces she was tampering with.
That was understandable, even in modern times, transplant surgeries came with rejection risks. Absorbing another''s energy was no different, only far more dangerous.
As for the so-called resentment that other cultivators often spoke of¡ªthe lingering malice of those she killed¡ªshe had never experienced it. She had a theory, though: by extracting their memories first and storing them separately, she prevented their emotions from contaminating her mind.
Interestingly, she also never encountered the so-called Heavenly Tribulation that cultivators feared. Even when she reached the Void Refining level, the skies remained silent. Her speculation was that it might have something to do with her soul being foreign, from another world altogether, but she wasn¡¯t entirely sure.
''But still¡ If possible, I won¡¯t use that same method again in this life. The power it offers isn¡¯t worth the constant pain. I¡¯d rather find a different path to strength, one that doesn¡¯t involve heart attacks. I¡¯ve accumulated enough knowledge to cultivate through other means, anyway.''
With these thoughts lingering, Rinne shook off the remnants of her dream and fully awakened.
???
After a few minutes, Rinne found herself standing in the public hall of the Iron Blade Sect.
The familiar sensation of teleportation faded, leaving her amidst a group of thirty other participants who had seemingly passed the assessment as well.
The hall buzzed with the muted excitement and tension of those who had just survived the trial. Rinne¡¯s gaze swept over the group, noting the varying degrees of exhaustion etched on their faces. Despite the shared experience, she felt detached from the rest, her mind still processing the memories she had absorbed using the Soul Search technique.
An elder, whose presence commanded immediate attention, stepped forward. His voice, calm and authoritative, cut through the silence that had fallen over the hall.
"Congratulations to those of you who have passed."
With a single, fluid motion of his hand, two bottles and a wooden badge floated through the air, landing gently in front of each participant. Rinne caught hers with ease, her curiosity piqued as she examined the items.
Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.
The blue bottle contained ten Spirit Gathering Pills, while the green bottle held ten Healing Pills. The elder explained that these were rewards for passing the trial and then announced the number of those who had succeeded.
"These are your rewards! From the original 480 participants, only 31 of you have passed."
The elder continued, his tone neutral.
"Such a low passing rate, but that only serves to show how selective we must be."
Rinne noted the absence of the remaining participants.
According to the memories she had extracted from other cultivators, those who failed the trial were not present because they would be left here and relegated to the role of handymen within the Iron Blade Sect.
Prominent sects like the Azure Sky Sect and others didn¡¯t bother accepting those low-quality seeds. They did not lack handymen, as they had their own rigorous systems of evaluating and promoting or demoting disciples. Those who met the standards were promoted, while those who didn''t were demoted, and at the bottom were handymen, who performed menial tasks until they proved their worth.
The elder¡¯s voice drew her attention once more.
"You are to board the boat and rest. No further instructions will be given at this time."
With that, he left them to their own devices. Rinne joined the others as they made their way to the flying boat, the same boat that transported them, docked just outside the hall.
As they walked, she noticed some of the participants discreetly swallowing a Healing Pill, their faces contorting in brief pain before relief washed over them. Others, though wounded, chose to conserve their pills, saving them for more dire situations.
Rinne, however, pocketed both bottles without a second thought. She felt no need for the pills, her body unscathed and her energy reserves intact.
Just as she was about to step onto the boat, a boy¡¯s voice called out behind her.
"You¡¯re pretty good for a beggar."
Rinne frowned, the words triggering a flicker of irritation. Still, she responded with a curt, "Thank you," and continued on her way.
But the boy was persistent, quickly catching up to her.
"Hey, wait! I didn¡¯t mean it like that. I was actually complimenting you. Don¡¯t just walk away."
Rinne stopped, her patience wearing thin. The boy shifted uncomfortably under her gaze before offering an apologetic smile.
"I¡¯m sorry if I offended you. My name is Kael Verin."
The young boy named Kael Verin looked to be around 10 years old. His hair was short, dark brown, and slightly tousled, giving him a cheerful look. His eyes were a piercing green, reflecting a mix of curiosity and determination.
Rinne didn''t understand why this boy seemed interested in her. Maybe he was curious about why the beggar child could pass the trial while many of the wealthy children could not.
Regarding this, she could only say that they were simply too pampered and became weak.
"Just call me Rin,"
She replied, her tone flat as she resumed her pace, leaving Kael to follow or not as he wished.
As they continued toward the boat, Rinne¡¯s attention was drawn to a figure approaching Roran, who was ahead of her. An elder, distinguished and stern, had made his way to Roran and engaged him in a brief, hushed conversation. Roran nodded and, without hesitation, followed the elder towards a different boat.
Rinne¡¯s eyes narrowed as she recognized the elder from Roran''s memories¡ªit was Elder Soryn. The realization struck her: this was likely the moment Roran had been recruited into the Azure Sky Sect, bypassing the need for the third trial entirely. Though she couldn¡¯t hear their conversation, it was clear that something significant was happening.
Watching Roran disappear with Elder Soryn into the boat, Rinne felt a pang of curiosity. She knew this wasn¡¯t just any casual invitation; this was the start of Roran¡¯s journey into one of the most prestigious sects in the Immortal Alliance¡ªa journey she had already glimpsed through his memories.
But this has nothing to do with her, she had her own path to walk. Turning away, Rinne boarded the boat with the other participants.
After all the participants had boarded the flying boat, it lifted into the air, heading toward the location of the third trial. The hum of the boat''s energy thrummed beneath Rinne''s feet as she found a seat near the edge, preferring to stay away from the crowd.
Kael Verin, the boy who had earlier spoken to her, made his way over and sat beside her. He seemed eager to continue the conversation.
"Let me reintroduce myself. I¡¯m Kael Verin, second son of the Verin main branch family."
Rinne gave him a brief nod, her expression neutral. ¡°Rin,¡± she replied simply, not offering more.
Kael continued, oblivious to her disinterest.
"The Verin clan is known for our talisman shops. We have branches in many towns, including Elaria Town. Maybe you¡¯ve heard of us?"
Rinne remained silent, though she was far from uninformed.
She knew the Verin clan well, but not because of any reputation Kael might think they had. They were one of her victims in her previous life, a fact she wasn¡¯t about to reveal. The Verin clan''s wealth and knowledge in talisman making had contributed significantly to her own arsenal of skills and resources back then. However, she had never seen Kael before. He was likely either in hiding during her attack or had perished young before she could get to him.
Kael didn¡¯t seem to notice¡ªor perhaps care¡ªthat Rinne wasn¡¯t interested in the conversation. He probably thought she was a boy, after all. Her current appearance¡ªa young child with short, unkempt hair¡ªwas indistinguishable from that of a boy, especially to someone who didn¡¯t know her. It wasn¡¯t the first time someone had made that assumption, and Rinne wasn¡¯t in any hurry to correct him.
Seeing that Rinne wasn¡¯t going to respond, Kael shifted the topic.
"I wonder what the third trial will be. Do you have any idea?"
Rinne was silent for a moment, hesitating whether to answer or not.
She looked at the wooden badge they had all been given, turning it over in her hand.
"I don¡¯t know, but it must be related to these."
At first glance, there didn¡¯t seem to be anything special about this wooden badge, it was just a badge made of wood. But of course, the items distributed by the Immortal Alliance couldn¡¯t be ordinary items. It was just that ordinary people didn¡¯t know the function of this badge.
Kael furrowed his brow in thought.
"Hmm, maybe they¡¯ll make us fight each other to rob the badges? It wouldn¡¯t be the first time something like that happened in a trial."
Rinne¡¯s gaze flickered, and she pocketed the badge.
"Then we should prepare ourselves and rest."
With that said, she took a meditation stance and closed her eyes.
Kael nodded, his earlier enthusiasm dampened by the realization of what might come.
"You¡¯re right. Better to be ready for anything."
Of course, Rinne already knew what would happen in the third trial¡ªshe had extracted that information from the memories of others long ago. But it would be far too strange for a beggar to have such knowledge. For now, it was better to play along and maintain the facade.
Chapter 008 - Soul Library
The journey aboard the flying boat lasted two days, the vessel gliding smoothly through the azure skies toward their next destination. Below, the landscape shifted from rolling plains to dense, verdant canopies, hinting at the untamed wilderness that awaited them.
The fasting pills distributed before the second trial continued to suppress hunger and thirst, ensuring that the participants remained focused and sustained throughout the voyage.
During this tranquil interlude, Rinne sought to gather more information about the upcoming third trial.
Finding a quiet corner on the deck, she settled down, closing her eyes and allowing her consciousness to drift into the depths of her mind, and she entered her dream world¡ªa place she had crafted with meticulous detail.
In this dreamscape, she stood before a grand edifice: a towering, labyrinthine library that stretched endlessly in all directions. She had named it the Soul Library.
Towering bookshelves stretched infinitely in all directions, filled with countless tomes that gleamed with ethereal light. Each book represented a collection of memories she had harvested through her Soul Search technique, a repository of knowledge she could access at will.
Here, in the dream world, she could move freely, summoning any memory she wished to examine. Rinne floated effortlessly between the shelves. With a mere thought, she summoned the memory of a certain person¡ªnot one of the participants in the trial, but of an elder who had observed the trials for many years.
The elder whose memories she chose to explore was none other than Elder Soryn of the Azure Sky Sect.
A smirk tugged at her lips as she recalled the memory of him, or rather, the moment she had killed him. Her fingers twitched slightly as she remembered the smooth, polished surface of his bald head under her grasp during the Soul Harvest.
''Ah, Elder Soryn... I still remember how smooth your cranium was when I grabbed it during the Soul Harvest. So perfectly round and glossy, like polished marble under my fingertips.''
The memory was amusing, a stark contrast to the stern and dignified image the elder presented to the world. She chuckled softly, the sound echoing through the silent expanse of the library.
''Who would have thought such a revered figure could provide such... tactile satisfaction?''
She thought, her amusement lingering as she opened the book.
Pages turned rapidly before her eyes as she delved into Elder Soryn''s experiences, specifically focusing on the details of the third trial during Roran''s recruitment year. Scenes unfolded in intricate detail¡ªthe layout of the trial grounds, the challenges faced, the strategies employed by successful participants. Every nuance was captured within these memories, offering Rinne a comprehensive understanding far beyond what any participant could hope to glean.
Time seemed to stretch and compress in the Soul Library. What felt like hours of study in the dream world passed in mere moments in the waking world. However, her head throbbed slightly as she accessed the vast amount of information¡ªher current body still struggled to handle the mental strain of such intense memory retrieval.
Rinne winced, pressing a hand to her forehead as the pain throbbed persistently.
''Seems like my current body isn''t quite up to par yet, Accessing so much information at once is still taxing.''
Closing the tome, she allowed it to dissolve back into the air, the vast shelves of the library receding as she gently pulled herself out of the dreamscape. Her eyes fluttered open to the warm glow of the setting sun casting long shadows across the deck.
She sighed softly, massaging her temples to alleviate the lingering discomfort, gazing out at the horizon where the sky met the dense expanse of forest below.
''Originally, I planned to start quietly as a mere handyman, but opportunities arise in the most unexpected ways... Well, no use complaining. I¡¯ll just have to adjust. And this time, in a good way.''
A faint smile played on her lips as she leaned back, allowing herself to drift into genuine, restful sleep this time, her mind and body recuperating in anticipation of the trials ahead.
???
The morning of the third day dawned crisp and clear as the flying boat began its descent toward a sprawling, ancient woodland known as the Eldergrove Forest.
Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.
The dense canopy stretched as far as the eye could see, the trees towering and interwoven, exuding an aura of mystery and latent power. As the boat docked onto a sturdy wooden platform at the forest''s edge, a flurry of activity ensued. Participants stirred from their rest, gathering their belongings and preparing to disembark.
"It''s about time, are you ready, Rin?"
Kael approached Rinne, his expression a mixture of excitement and nervousness. He remarked, while adjusting the strap of his satchel.
"Probably,"
Rinne stretched languidly as she replied calmly, her gaze sweeping over the bustling deck.
Seemingly reassured by her demeanor, Kael reached into his pouch and pulled out a small bundle of talismans, offering them to her. The thin parchment squares were inscribed with intricate symbols that glowed faintly with embedded power.
He then placed five Fireball Talismans into her palm.
"Here, take these... I only brought a few with me, so sorry if the number is a bit small."
Rinne examined the talismans closely, her fingers tracing the delicate lines of the inscriptions. A frown subtly creased her brow as she realized something crucial¡ªthese talismans required a minimum cultivation level of the 1st Level of Spirit Gathering stage to activate.
For her, who hadn¡¯t even begun cultivating, these talismans were practically useless. Kael had either forgotten this small detail or perhaps assumed she had already reached that level.
''He probably forgot, or assumed I''ve made more progress than I have, But there''s no need to mention it.''
She slipped the talismans into her pouch without a word, offering Kael a polite smile.
"Thank you, I hope for our success."
Kael grinned, seemingly encouraged by her words.
"We''ll make it through, I''m sure."
As the boat docked, the participants from Elaria Town gathered and prepared to disembark. However, as they stepped onto the platform, it became clear just how few they were. Other boats, arriving from various directions, carried hundreds of participants¡ªsome over two hundred, others just above a hundred. By comparison, their group of thirty seemed pitifully small.
Rinne could feel the disdainful glances from the other participants, their silent sneers almost palpable. They likely saw the small number of participants from Elaria Town as a sign of weakness, an easy target for bullying.
She sighed softly. Fortunately, the third trial was not a group competition; otherwise, their small numbers would have been a severe disadvantage.
An elder, different from the one who had announced the previous trials, arrived at the scene. His presence commanded attention as he addressed the gathered participants.
"Welcome, esteemed participants, to the third trial,"
He began, his gaze sweeping over the assembled masses.
"This trial is straightforward: survive within Eldergrove Forest for one week and collect as many Spiritual Beast Cores as you can. To aid you, each participant will be lent a low-grade spatial bag to store the cores. However, the use of any other spatial bag is forbidden.¡±
The elder''s expression grew stern as he continued,
"Each of you has been issued a Wooden Token. This token is your lifeline. It generates an invisible barrier that offers protection up to a certain threshold. Should you sustain injuries or attacks exceeding this threshold, the token will activate and teleport you back to this platform. Additionally, after the week concludes, all tokens will automatically return you here."
He paused, his gaze hardening.
"However, should you lose your token, your life cannot be guaranteed. Exercise caution."
A ripple of unease passed through the crowd at his words.
It turned out that the seemingly ordinary wooden badge they received had an important function in keeping their lives safe during this trial. The elder had emphasized the importance of the wooden badge and the dire consequences of losing it.
Kael exhaled slowly beside Rinne, relief evident in his posture.
"At least we don''t have to fight each other, and our lives are safe."
But Rinne shook her head, her expression serious.
"Not really, the elder never said we couldn¡¯t rob others, nor did he mention any punishment for killing,"
Kael''s eyes widened, his earlier relief replaced by apprehension.
The wooden badge could ensure that their lives would not be lost during this trial, but it did not protect them from theft or robbery. If the wooden badge was stolen or taken by force from its owner, there would be no guarantee of its owner''s safety until the trial was over.
"You think others might¡?"
He didn''t need to finish his words, both of them already understood.
Rinne replied evenly.
"It''s possible, best to be prepared."
Kael nodded slowly, digesting her words with a newfound seriousness.
Participants began to queue up, receiving their spatial bags and proceeding toward an array of Teleportation Circles etched into the ground. Each circle glowed with arcane symbols, ready to disperse individuals randomly throughout the vast forest.
As their turn approached, Kael offered Rinne a tentative smile.
"Stay safe out there, Rin."
"See you later."
She met his gaze, offering a slight nod.
Stepping into the circle, Rinne felt a surge of energy envelop her, a brief sensation of weightlessness overtaking her senses. In an instant, the platform and bustling crowd vanished, replaced by the dense, earthy atmosphere of Eldergrove Forest.
She landed softly amidst towering trees and dense underbrush, the sounds of distant wildlife echoing around her. The air was cool and damp, filled with the rich scents of moss and loam.
Rinne took a moment to orient herself, her sharp eyes scanning the surroundings for immediate threats. Satisfied that she was alone for the moment, she exhaled calmly.
Unlike many others, she felt no trepidation entering this trial.
The conditions of this test were simple. As long as she did not lose her token, then her goal had been achieved. Even if she ended up with zero spirit beast cores, or was teleported out before the week was up, her position as an outer disciple would still be secure.
Chapter 009 - Verdant Meridian Pill
The thick canopy of the Eldergrove Forest broke the sunlight into scattered patches on the ground below.
Towering trees with twisted roots stretched high, their branches weaving together like a natural roof over Rinne¡¯s head. The air smelled of wet soil, moss, and faint traces of wildflowers. It didn¡¯t take Rinne long to pinpoint her location within the forest.
With the memories she¡¯d taken from Elder Soryn, she had pieced together a detailed map of the area. Comparing landmarks came easily, and soon, she recognized a distinct rock formation¡ªa unique feature in this part of Eldergrove. It was enough to confirm where she stood.
"Good. I¡¯m not lost,"
Now that her position was clear, Rinne began planning her next steps.
There was no need to worry about food. The fasting pill she took before the second trial kept her hunger at bay and would continue to do so for the rest of the trial. Technically, she could sit idle for the week and still pass as an outer disciple. But since she had time, she might as well make use of it.
The first two days went into gathering herbs and poisons. Eldergrove was filled with medicinal plants, and Rinne¡¯s sharp eye easily identified the most useful ones. Her hands moved swiftly and carefully as she collected herbs, leaving as little disturbance behind as possible. Once gathered, she processed them with precision.
Using simple alchemical methods, she crafted several poisons¡ªsome deadly, others meant to paralyze or cause intense discomfort. As she ground a toxic herb into powder, she thought.
''Well, it''s better safe than sorry.''
With a mortal body like hers, direct combat was out of the question. She might know advanced martial techniques, but her muscles weren¡¯t trained for them. If she tried anything too demanding, she¡¯d risk pulling a tendon or worse. Even more limiting was the absence of spiritual energy. Many of her techniques required it, so she fell back on what she knew best¡ªtraps and poisons.
Some might call her methods dishonorable, but she didn¡¯t care. They worked.
As she prepared her supplies, her mind wandered to a larger issue: spiritual roots. Without spiritual roots, she couldn¡¯t progress in cultivation. Her knowledge included many unconventional methods for acquiring them, but each came with risks.
She¡¯d already tried Gu cultivation once, but the experience left her teetering on the edge of death¡ªa risk she wasn¡¯t eager to take again.
Another option was transplanting someone else¡¯s spiritual roots, but that was a delicate and dangerous procedure. It wasn¡¯t something she could do on her own. Even if she managed to get someone else¡¯s roots, rejection was a real possibility, like her heart problem in a different form. The thought of enduring constant pain during cultivation was not appealing.
Alchemy seemed like her best bet. Creating her own spiritual roots with a carefully crafted pill was far safer than any of the other options. The process would take time and resources, but it was manageable.
Among the countless recipes she knew, one stood out: the Verdant Meridian Pill. This pill could convert a person¡¯s meridians into wood-attributed spiritual roots¡ªa necessary step toward advancing her cultivation. However, the materials needed for the pill were rare, almost impossible to find in her current circumstances.
She mentally listed the ingredients:
-
- Thousand-Year Green Lotus:
A lotus that had absorbed the essence of nature for a millennium, highly potent in wood energy.
- Jade-Leaf Vine:
A mystical vine thriving in areas dense with wood elemental energy, for stabilizing and harmonizing meridian transformations.
- Emerald Heart Ginseng:
A ginseng plant nurtured in wood-attributed soil for centuries, containing immense vitality and healing properties.
- Verdant Soul Sap:
A drop of sap from the Sacred Verdant Tree, imbued with pure wood essence.
- Evergreen Pearl Mushroom:
A mushroom that grows in the shade of ancient trees, filled with concentrated wood spiritual energy.
Rinne sighed. None of these ingredients was lying around there.
Luckily, the knowledge she absorbed through soul search didn¡¯t just include memories¡ªit also held insights from other cultivators. One of those insights involved material substitution: using more common ingredients to mimic the effects of rare ones, as long as they were gathered in large enough quantities to match the required potency.
After going over her mental library of recipes, Rinne devised an alternative version of the Verdant Meridian Pill.
-
- Hundred-Year Spirit Grass (Substitute for Thousand-Year Green Lotus):
While not as potent, it could be harvested in larger quantities to match the required wood energy.
¡ª Quantity Required: 15 stalks of Hundred-Year Spirit Grass.
- Ironbark Creeper (Substitute for Jade-Leaf Vine):
A vine commonly found in dense forests, containing a moderate amount of wood elemental energy.
¡ª Quantity Required: 20 meters of Ironbark Creeper.
- Mountain Root Ginseng (Substitute for Emerald Heart Ginseng):
A ginseng plant found in mountainous regions, with decent vitality properties.
¡ª Quantity Required: 105 plants, each at least 15 years old.
- Wood Essence Resin (Substitute for Verdant Soul Sap):
Resin extracted from trees with a strong wood elemental affinity, though less pure.
¡ª Quantity Required: 250 drops of Wood Essence Resin.
- Mossy Cap Fungus (Substitute for Evergreen Pearl Mushroom):
A fungus that grows on the bark of ancient trees, holding wood energy, though less concentrated.
¡ª Quantity Required: 48 Mossy Cap Fungus.
She quickly decided, her mind already racing with the next steps.
"I¡¯ll have to do with these,"
If the trial had taken place in volcanic mountains, she would have chosen fire-attributed roots instead. But since the forest was rich with wood energy, this was the most practical choice.
Gathering materials was one thing, but storing them properly was another. To preserve their potency, Rinne needed containers, and she had no time to waste.
Using a knife scavenged from a junkyard, she cut bamboo and carved out small bottles for the resin. She also whittled logs into makeshift wooden boxes to store the other ingredients. Her hands moved with practiced efficiency, muscle memory guiding her every motion. In just a few hours, the containers were ready.
The low-grade spatial bag she carried solved the problem of transporting everything.
By the time the sun began to set, the forest shifted into twilight. Shadows lengthened, and the air grew cooler. Rinne found a small clearing surrounded by thick undergrowth, a natural barrier against curious animals. She set a few simple traps around the area, more to ward off pests than anything dangerous, and settled in for the night.
???
Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.
On the second day, Rinne continued her methodical gathering of herbs and poisons.
The day unfolded much like the first, with her carefully selecting and storing ingredients essential for her future alchemical work. The forest thrived with creatures¡ªwolves, snakes, rhinoceroses, and other low-level spiritual beasts¡ªbut none dared approach her. She had already sprinkled her clothes with a mixture of herbs that gave off a scent repulsive to beasts, ensuring her safety.
As she glided silently through the underbrush, Rinne spotted several participants scattered throughout the forest. Most were strangers, not from Elaria Town, and she knew better than to reveal herself. Each time she noticed someone drawing near, she quickly hid, hiding behind dense foliage or scaling the nearest tree with the ease of someone used to evading sight.
Rinne watched as some of the participants teamed up, forming temporary alliances to hunt spiritual beasts. She observed one such group from her hiding spot, concealed behind a thick cluster of leaves. Two boys and a girl were quietly discussing their strategy.
¡°Focus on its legs first! If we cripple it, the fight will be over before it begins.¡±
The leader¡¯s voice was calm, yet carried an air of command, as if he was used to issuing orders.
His sharp eyes darted to the clearing where the spiritual beast, a large horned wolf. The tension in his stance revealed the weight of responsibility, knowing one misstep could put them all in danger.
"Got it, I¡¯ll circle around and attack from the back. Be ready."
The girl adjusted the grip on her curved dagger, her voice low but confident. She gave her teammates a curt nod, her determined expression framed by sweat-matted strands of hair. As soon as the leader gestured, she silently disappeared into the surrounding foliage, her steps light and purposeful.
"I¡¯ll create a barrier if it charges. Just be quick."
The second boy held up a glowing talisman with both hands, his fingers trembling slightly. He muttered under his breath, calming his nerves as wisps of spiritual energy gathered around the talisman¡¯s surface. Though he spoke with resolve, the flicker of anxiety in his eyes betrayed his inexperience, making it clear he was relying heavily on the protection his talisman offered.
The trio moved in unison, like a well-oiled machine. The girl dashed behind the wolf, striking its hind legs with swift precision, forcing the beast to stumble. At the same moment, the leader lunged forward, his spear aimed at the wolf¡¯s exposed side. The talisman user stayed at a distance, his focus trained on the wolf¡¯s movements. Whenever the beast tried to counter, a shimmering barrier sprang to life, stopping the creature¡¯s attacks in their tracks.
Within moments, the horned wolf was incapacitated, its large body crumpling to the ground with a thud.
"Good work! This should be enough to get us through."
The leader gave a rare smile as he bent down to extract the beast core. It glimmered faintly in the dim light of the forest, a coveted prize that could significantly improve their chances of success. The three exchanged satisfied glances, the camaraderie between them evident in the way they moved and spoke.
Rinne remained absolutely still as they passed by her hiding spot, their chatter fading into the distance. She watched them leave with an impassive expression, the faint sounds of their steps blending into the rustle of leaves.
''Trust is a luxury I can''t afford.''
She thought bitterly, the sight stirring memories of alliances forged out of necessity, only to end in betrayal. Once she confirmed that the trio was gone, she slipped silently from her hiding place, moving toward the discarded wolf carcass.
They had only taken the core, leaving behind the beast¡¯s body¡ªa wealth of usable materials wasted.
Rinne crouched beside the remains, her hands working swiftly to extract valuable components: sharp teeth, fur with spiritual properties, and a small pouch of blood that could be used for poisons.
This scene repeated several times throughout the day. Many participants discarded valuable remains, focused solely on the beast cores. Each time, Rinne quietly collected the remnants, steadily filling her spatial bag with useful materials.
As the sun dipped lower, Rinne stumbled upon a different, more unsettling encounter. She was perched on a tree branch, scouting the area, when the sound of hurried footsteps and labored breathing reached her ears. Peering through the foliage, she spotted a lone boy sprinting through the forest, clutching a low-grade spatial bag to his chest. His face was pale with fear.
Behind him, another boy emerged¡ªtaller, broader, and moving with the deliberate ease of someone confident in their victory. His smirk was cruel, his eyes gleaming with malice as he closed the distance between them.
¡°Give it up! You can¡¯t outrun me!¡±
The bandit boy''s taunt rang through the forest, filled with smug amusement. His pace remained steady, as if savoring the thrill of the chase. He knew he didn¡¯t need to hurry¡ªhis prey was already worn down.
¡°Please, just let me go! I need this!¡±
The fleeing boy¡¯s voice cracked with desperation.
His grip on the spatial bag tightened, knuckles turning white, as if the small pouch was the last shred of hope he had. He stumbled over a root but managed to keep his footing, though it was clear he wouldn¡¯t last much longer.
The bandit only laughed, a harsh sound that echoed in the quiet forest.
¡°Need? What you need is to learn your place. Hand it over, and maybe I¡¯ll let you leave with your limbs intact.¡±
His voice was calm, almost conversational, as though he was discussing the weather rather than threatening someone¡¯s life. The victim hesitated, his gaze flickering between his pursuer and the forest path ahead.
The victim hesitated for a moment, then, with a defeated sigh, tossed the bag toward his pursuer. The bandit snatched it, a triumphant sneer spreading across his face as he checked its contents.
¡°Good choice. Now get lost before I change my mind.¡±
The victim staggered away, crushed and humiliated. The robber didn¡¯t spare him a second glance, more interested in the spoils he had claimed.
Rinne¡¯s eyes followed the boy as he disappeared into the trees. The forest was merciless, and weakness invited exploitation. She stayed hidden, letting the bandit leave before descending silently from her perch.
By dusk, Rinne had gathered everything she needed for the Verdant Meridian Pill.
The materials were safely stowed in her spatial bag, and her focus shifted to finding shelter for the night. Darkness crept in, bringing with it the sounds of nocturnal creatures stirring.
Navigating the dense forest, Rinne made her way to a small cave tucked behind a waterfall. She had scouted the area earlier, memorizing the path in preparation. The waterfall concealed the entrance perfectly, and she knew that this cave would remain hidden from the prying eyes.
She knew that the interior of this cave would remain unseen by the mirror viewing platform due to the way it functioned. The platform relied on a spiritual bird¡¯s vision that spread across the trial site, but these birds couldn¡¯t enter the cave, allowing her a unique sanctuary away from the eyes of others.
Once inside, she let out a breath she didn¡¯t realize she had been holding. The darkness was comforting, wrapping around her like a protective shroud. Here, away from the gaze of participants and overseers, she was free to think and plan.
''Finally, a moment of solitude.''
The immediate task of gathering materials was complete, but a new challenge presented itself¡ªthe pill-making process. Rinne had the knowledge and skill, but she lacked an essential tool: an alchemy cauldron. Even worse, without cultivation, she couldn¡¯t ignite a fire, which was necessary to refine the ingredients.
Her mind raced with potential solutions.
''If there¡¯s no cauldron, I¡¯ll make one. And if I can¡¯t start a fire, there¡¯s always the fireball talisman... though triggering it might take some trick.''
The thought of creating the pill right here, right now, was tempting. The sooner it was made, the sooner she could use it to enhance herself. Yet hesitation gnawed at her.
Is it worth the risk? What if I ruin the materials?
She bit her lip, torn between acting immediately and waiting for a safer opportunity.
If she could join a sect, she¡¯d have access to proper alchemical equipment, drastically improving her success rate. But time was precious, and waiting meant wasted opportunity. After a long moment of deliberation, she made a decision.
''I¡¯ll build the cauldron first. If it works, I¡¯ll try making the pill. If not, I¡¯ll wait until I can access better tools.''
With her resolve firm, Rinne began laying out the materials she would need to construct a makeshift cauldron. This was a temporary solution, but it was enough to give her options. She couldn¡¯t afford carelessness, but neither could she afford inaction.
The night stretched on, and with each passing moment, she worked with quiet determination. Time, as always, was against her¡ªbut Rinne was no stranger to making the most of every second.
Chapter 010 - Makeshift Pill Refining
On the third day, Rinne found herself inside her hiding cave, staring at the crude stone cauldron in front of her.
She had spent the entire night carving this cauldron from a large boulder, using her worn-out knife as a chisel. Normally, such a knife wouldn¡¯t have lasted long under such intense use, but Rinne had a trick up her sleeve.
Through the knowledge she had acquired from countless sword cultivators, she managed to condense a sliver of sword intent, infusing the knife with a sharpness that made it cut through the stone like it was mere mud.
The process was taxing, however, and it drained her mental strength significantly. Each strike of the knife against the stone resonated in her mind, echoing the disciplined focus of a blade master, but it came at a steep cost. By the time she finished carving the cauldron, her mind was reeling from exhaustion.
In the end, she was forced to consume the healing pills she had obtained as a reward from the second trial just to keep herself from collapsing. Although healing pills were very valuable to some people, but to Rinne, this type of pill was no big deal and she could refine them at any time, as long as the ingredients and tools were available.
One by one, the pills disappeared into her mouth, mending the mental strain, but by the time dawn approached, her supply was depleted.
Rinne sighed as she wiped the sweat from her brow, her gaze fixed on the completed cauldron and the stone stove she had crafted alongside it. Relief washing over her despite her exhaustion.
''At least it''s done,''
The cauldron, while crude, would serve its purpose, and the stone stove was sturdy enough to hold it in place.
However, the next problem loomed before her¡ªfire. As a 7 year old without any cultivation, starting a fire to properly heat the cauldron was an insurmountable challenge, but Rinne had anticipated this. The previous night, she had devised a plan that she now intended to put to the test.
Taking a jar of thick tree sap, she began to draw a medium-sized formation on the ground, her strokes precise and deliberate. The sticky sap was an effective substitute for ink, and it adhered well to the cave floor. At the center of the formation, she placed a fireball talisman, positioning it carefully.
The formation she drew was similar in design to the blood talisman she had used earlier, meant to extract spiritual energy from an external source. This time, the target she chose for extraction was a Spirit Gathering Pill, also a reward from the second trial.
Once the formation was complete, Rinne placed the Spirit Gathering Pill at a specific point in the design, leaving one line of the formation deliberately unconnected. She took a deep breath before connecting the final line, knowing that this was a make-or-break moment.
As soon as the last line was connected, the formation activated. A low hum filled the cave as the Spirit Gathering Pill''s energy was drawn into the formation, triggering the fireball talisman at its center. The talisman flared to life, and a ball of fire burst into existence above the stove.
Rinne¡¯s eyes widened slightly as she saw the flame. The experiment was a success, but the fire was larger than she had anticipated. It roared hungrily, the heat radiating fiercely through the cave.
She acted quickly, stomping down on the edge of the formation to sever the last line. The formation dimmed immediately, but the fireball talisman continued to burn. Rinne gritted her teeth as she hurried to put out the fire, using a combination of dirt and the last dregs of tree sap to smother the flames.
It took time and effort, but eventually, the fire was extinguished. Rinne slumped back, breathing heavily as she surveyed the scene. The part of the cave where she had chosen to conduct the experiment was charred, but thankfully the area had good air circulation. Otherwise, she might have risked oxygen deprivation or even worse.
''One fireball talisman and one Spirit Gathering Pill, wasted... But at least the experiment wasn¡¯t a total failure.''
Rinne leaned back against the cave wall, her mind already working on a new plan. The idea of using the fireball talisman was sound, but the execution needed refinement. The problem was controlling the fire¡¯s intensity¡ªa task made difficult without proper cultivation to guide the talisman¡¯s power.
''Perhaps¡ I can adjust the formation to regulate the flow of spiritual energy, or maybe I can find another source of fuel that''s more stable.''
Rinne needed only one test and trial to grasp the nature of the problem. The fire''s uncontrollable intensity and the inefficient use of resources had highlighted a critical flaw in her approach. Recognizing this, she resolved to dive deeper into her understanding of formations and alchemy.
She closed her eyes and entered her soul library once again, a vast mental repository where she stored the knowledge and memories she had acquired from others. Her consciousness sifted through the memories of countless formation masters, studying their techniques, theories, and methodologies. However, she knew that the knowledge of formations alone wouldn¡¯t be enough. She needed to integrate this with her understanding of alchemy, adjusting the designs to accommodate the delicate processes involved in pill refinement.
Days seemed to pass as she immersed herself in study, carefully analyzing and cross-referencing the information. Yet, in the real world, only a short nap had passed. When she awoke, a wave of intense pain washed over her.
Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.
"Ugh, the price of knowledge..."
The headache was far more excruciating than before, a stark reminder of the toll this deep dive into her mind had on her body. Rinne clenched her teeth, willing herself to endure the pain. After a brief moment of rest, she gathered her strength and prepared to put her new plan into action.
First, she drew another formation on the ground, meticulously inscribing each line with the tree sap. This formation was designed to isolate the fire, preventing it from spreading and ensuring a constant, controlled temperature. She also added a crucial feature, a mechanism to turn the fire on and off at will, a failsafe to prevent another disaster like the last time.
But Rinne wasn¡¯t satisfied with just controlling the fire. She also incorporated a spiritual gathering formation into the design. This new addition would allow the formation to absorb the surrounding spiritual energy, using it to fuel itself, which meant she would only need to expend one Spirit Gathering Pill for the entire operation.
Yet, there was still more work to be done.
''Now, is the main event.''
Rinne retrieved the stone cauldron from her spatial bag and placed it before her.
With a worn-out knife in hand, she began to inscribe three formations on the surface of the stone cauldron. The first formation was meant to strengthen the cauldron, enabling it to endure intense heat and spiritual energy, while preventing medicinal energy from seeping into the stone.
Once that was completed, Rinne moved on to the next stage.
She carefully inscribed another formation on top of the first, one designed with a far more complex function. This second formation was intended to regulate the flow of spiritual energy within the cauldron based on the temperature, the intensity of the medicinal properties detected inside, and to prevent the loss of energy through evaporation, even without a lid. And then the third formation, a self-cleaning function to maintain it after each use.
In simple terms, Rinne had attempted to create a cauldron that could self-adjust to the various conditions of the medicinal materials within it.
She knew that her current state: powerless, without the ability to control spiritual energy, left her at a significant disadvantage. She was no longer the formidable evil cultivator with unmatched power, but a little girl who was still a mortal.
If she couldn¡¯t control the spiritual energy herself, then the cauldron would have to do it for her.
Of course, Rinne was fully aware that each pill recipe had different procedures and conditions. Attempting to create a cauldron that could self-adjust for every possible recipe was impossible with her current resources and knowledge. Therefore, she added another feature to the formation, a set of symbols that acted as buttons.
These symbols would allow her to turn the different functions of the formation on and off at the appropriate times, giving her a degree of manual control over the process.
''Good, I hope this will work.''
Satisfied with her work, Rinne stepped back to admire the intricate design she had etched onto the cauldron. The symbols and lines intertwined seamlessly, a testament to the fusion of her acquired knowledge and personal ingenuity. She placed the cauldron on the stone stove, carefully positioning the fireball talisman underneath it. The formation on the ground surrounded the setup, ready to be activated.
But before attempting to refine the Verdant Meridian Pill, Rinne decided to test her creation with something simpler, a basic healing pill. She knew that if this first attempt failed, it would be better to ruin a less valuable set of ingredients than the precious materials she had painstakingly gathered for the Verdant Meridian Pill.
With a deep breath, Rinne touched the symbol that activated the fireball talisman. The formation hummed to life, and the talisman ignited, producing a controlled flame that enveloped the base of the cauldron. She watched closely, her hand hovering over the other symbols, ready to adjust the formation as needed.
An hour had passed, and the refining of the healing pill had gone smoothly. Rinne observed the cauldron closely, watching as the medicinal ingredients mixed and merged together. The time had come to condense the mixture into a pill shape. With a careful tap on the symbol representing pill condensation, she watched as the blend of medicinal ingredients absorbed into a single point, rounding itself into a large pill.
Judging by the potent aroma that filled the cave, it seemed to be a top-grade pill. However, upon closer inspection, Rinne frowned. Although the medicinal properties were mostly correct, the pill was so large that it would be difficult to consume. This was a failure, despite the initial success.
''The pill¡¯s size needed to be much smaller and more manageable.''
Rinne quickly identified the issue: she should have adjusted the portion control during the condensation phase to maintain the pill¡¯s size. It wasn¡¯t a significant setback, though; she could fix it by carving additional formation lines that would inject the medicinal mixture only until the pill reached a certain size threshold.
With that in mind, Rinne stopped the formation and set to work on reworking the cauldron. She meticulously carved the new formation lines, tweaking the design to prevent the earlier mistake from happening again.
On her third attempt, she decided to refine a Spirit Gathering Pill. The process unfolded as smoothly as before, her adjustments working as intended. When the pill condensation process began, she watched as the pills were ejected one by one after reaching the precise size she had calibrated. This time, she produced ten middle-grade pills, a clear improvement in terms of control and accuracy.
However, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh at the results.
''This is not what I hoped.''
Although the pills were well-formed and evenly sized, they were only middle-grade. The force used to condense the pills had been insufficient, resulting in the medicinal properties inside each pill being less compact than she¡¯d hoped. Additionally, the stone material of the cauldron caused some loss of medicinal potency during the refining process.
Once again, Rinne found herself hesitating. Should she risk refining the Verdant Meridian Pill under such imperfect conditions, or wait until she could join a sect and borrow their alchemy room? But it didn¡¯t take her long to make a decision.
"Proceed, I must proceed."
Even if she waited to join a sect, she knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to use this method in their alchemy room. It was unlikely any sect would allow an unknown outer disciple to draw unrecognized formations in their alchemy room, much less permit modifications to their cauldrons. Moreover, there was the looming threat of the yearly assessment, where being discovered without spiritual roots would be a significant risk.
Rinne gritted her teeth. Continuing with her current setup might result in lower-quality pills, and there was no guarantee of success. But it didn¡¯t matter. At worst, she would have to take multiple doses as long as the pills generated even a thread of spiritual root.
And if the pills failed entirely, she could always gather the materials again and start over.
Chapter 011 – Mirror Viewing Platform
Other POV:
The Mirror Viewing Platform was abuzz with activity.
Over a hundred elders from various sects gathered, each intently watching the mirrors displaying scenes from the ongoing third trial. The platform, a grand circular room lined with large, hovering mirrors, reflected different scenes of the trial, allowing the elders to assess the abilities and potential of the participants present.
The atmosphere was one of anticipation and evaluation, as the elders watched carefully, their voices a low murmur of commentary and analysis.
The participants, unaware of the trial¡¯s true purpose, were pushing their limits, each action observed and scrutinized by the powerful figures who would ultimately decide their futures.
"Look at the lad from the Verin clan, his talisman skills are quite impressive, especially for one so young. The way he activated that defensive talisman against the spiritual beast¡ªswift and precise. He has a sharp mind for such things."
An elder from the Verdant Blade Sect remarked, his eyes fixed on the mirror displaying a young boy deftly handling talismans. If Rinne were here, she would have recognized this elder. His sect was the origin of the Verdant Meridian Pill, a recipe she was currently trying to reproduce.
Another elder from the Crimson Sun Sect agreed, his gaze shifting to a different mirror.
"Indeed, but take a look at the girl from the Leirin clan¡ªshe''s manipulating fire with exceptional control. Her technique is refined beyond her years. If she continues at this pace, she could be a top contender for an inner disciple position."
"And what about the boy with the hammer? The one from the Tyren clan. His brute strength is one thing, but the way he''s shaping that spiritual ore¡ªit''s almost like an art form. He has the potential to be a formidable blacksmith."
The elder from the Verdant Blade Sect nodded, but his attention was drawn to the boy who carried a hammer.
Another elder, this one from the Emberglow Sect, pointed to yet another mirror.
"Don''t overlook the girl from the Shorn clan. Her agility and speed are remarkable, especially in that last bout against multiple opponents. She outmaneuvered them effortlessly, and her blade work is precise. If trained properly, she could become a deadly swordsman."
The elders continued to observe, each one making mental notes on the participants who caught their eye. The discussions were punctuated with nods of approval and occasional frowns of disappointment, as the elders weighed the strengths and weaknesses of each participant.
A gray-haired elder from the Earthshaker Sect noted.
"There''s also that boy from the Halkon clan, he¡¯s not as flashy as the others, but his understanding of earth-based techniques is solid. He just used a terrain manipulation skill to trap a spiritual beast¡ªsimple, but effective. A reliable talent, if you ask me."
Elder Soryn from the Azure Sky Sect also sat among the gathering, though he remained silent.
His thoughts were elsewhere, specifically on Roran, whom he had recruited as soon as the second trial concluded. It was rare to find someone with a 90% purity single spiritual root of the fire attribute, and he was relieved that he had acted quickly. He watched the mirrors but didn¡¯t comment on the participants, content with his recent acquisition.
''It¡¯s a good thing I acted swiftly. If I had delayed even a moment, this boy might have entered the third trial, and who knows which sect would have claimed him? There¡¯s no telling how many others would have fought over him once they saw his potential.''
While Elder Soryn was absorbed in his thoughts, Roran''s eyes remained glued to the mirrors, taking in the participants'' actions. This was exactly as his memories had shown him: being recruited by Elder Soryn. As he scanned the faces in the mirrors, he recognized a few participants¡ªsome were rivals, others potential allies from his previous life.
Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.
A fleeting thought crossed his mind: Could the Calamity Witch be among them?
''The Calamity Witch... could she be here?''
Roran wondered, feeling a chill run down his spine. His grip tightened as he scanned the mirrors for any sign of her. The mere thought of her sent a wave of fear and anger through him. But then, as quickly as the thought came, he pushed it aside.
''No, that¡¯s impossible. The witch was an evil cultivator, feared and loathed by all. There¡¯s no way she would appear in a trial meant for future sect members. Besides, this is not the place for someone like her.''
Yet, despite his attempts to dismiss the idea, Roran couldn''t shake the lingering unease. The Calamity Witch was a figure of terror in his memories¡ªa dark presence that had brought ruin and despair to countless lives. Roran knew that if she ever resurfaced, she would be a threat to everything and everyone he held dear.
Roran resolved, his eyes hardening with determination.
''I must become strong, stronger than anyone. If she ever returns, I¡¯ll be ready. I¡¯ll protect everyone I care about from her... from any threat. I won¡¯t let the past repeat itself.''
His thoughts were a whirlwind of resolve and fear, but one thing was clear: Roran would do whatever it took to ensure that the horrors of the past would never touch his future.
As he watched the participants in the mirrors, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. His journey had only just begun, and he knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. But no matter what, he would forge ahead, becoming the protector his memories urged him to be.
The elders continued to watch, their discussions revealing the unspoken goal of the trial.
Unbeknownst to the participants, this was their chance to prove themselves, to display their skills and abilities in hopes of catching the eye of a sect elder. Those who excelled might be recruited as an inner disciple, where they would receive superior resources and training. And those who perform exceptionally, might be recruited as a personal disciple, trained directly under the guidance of a powerful elder. Either way, they managed to secure their place in a powerful sect.
But for those who failed to catch the eye of any elder, the future was less certain. They would be relegated to the ranks of the outer disciples, a place of limited opportunities and minimal resources. It was a path fraught with challenges, where only the most determined could hope to rise above their peers.
As the elders discussed the merits of each participant, the focus of Elder Maelis from the Frostfire Sect shifted to one particular scene that had caught his interest. His attention had been drawn by his personal disciple, Faylen, who seemed particularly absorbed in the actions of one participant.
Faylen murmured, surprise evident in his voice as he watched the mirror intently.
"That beggar boy... he''s still in the trial,"
Elder Maelis, who stood beside him, caught wind of Faylen''s murmured words. Curiosity piqued, he shifted his attention to the mirror that had captured his disciple''s focus.
"Oh? This is the one you''ve been watching?"
Faylen nodded, still somewhat in surprise.
"Yes, master. I thought for sure he¡¯d fail. Yet here he is, still in the trial and making his way through it."
Elder Maelis'' interest piqued as he observed the participant more closely. The beggar¡ªor rather, the boy Faylen believed to be a beggar¡ªwas indeed moving with a surprising level of caution and skill.
"He may not have the refined tools or techniques of others, but he makes do with what he has. That shows resourcefulness, something we value highly in the Frostfire Sect."
Elder Maelis mused, he observed the figure more closely.
The way he blended into his surroundings, using the beast-repelling powder to keep spiritual beasts at bay, collecting carcasses left over by other participants, and how he meticulously stored the collected herbs in makeshift bamboo bottles and wooden boxes, was impressive.
Faylen nodded slowly, still watching intently.
"But what kind of stuff is he gathering? Some of them don''t seem to be particularly valuable."
He still hadn''t studied Alchemy in depth, so of course he didn''t know the uses of the materials collected by the beggar.
Elder Maelis shrugged.
"The specifics of the plants don''t matter as much as his knowledge and application of them. He knows what he¡¯s doing, even if the materials are common. That shows a certain level of understanding."
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the trial grounds, the boy¡ªwho, unbeknownst to them, was Rinne¡ªapproached a waterfall.
The powerful rush of water concealed a hidden cave behind it, a secret haven where the boy could seek refuge from prying eyes. The mirrors, however, could not penetrate the veil of the cascading water, leaving them oblivious to the boy''s next move.
Faylen muttered, disappointment evident in his tone.
"A shame, I wanted to see what he does next."
Hearing his disciple''s disappointed murmurs, Elder Maelis advised.
"Patience, there are plenty of other participants to observe. But keep an eye on him. There¡¯s potential there, even if it''s hidden beneath a rough exterior."
With the mirror no longer showing Rinne''s actions, both of them gradually shifted their attention to other participants, each searching for that one spark of talent that could elevate their sect¡¯s future.
Chapter 012 – Refining Verdant Meridian Pill
Rinne POV:
Third day of the trial.
In the hidden cave, Rinne spent the entire day working meticulously, refining the supplementary materials needed for the Verdant Meridian Pill.
Although she had successfully refined a 1st-grade healing pill and a Spirit Gathering Pill, these were relatively simple processes for a novice. Those pills were easy and required little more than basic techniques and precision. The Verdant Meridian Pill, however, was a 5th grade pill, a high-level product that even seasoned alchemists found daunting. Its creation required immense precision and control over spiritual energy, something Rinne currently lacked.
Therefore, she needed to take some additional steps.
The process began with Rinne preparing 15 bottles of Green Neutralizer, a mixture made from common plants that held minimal medicinal power but possessed excellent balancing properties. She carefully selected a variety of plants with mild, neutral energies.
Rinne worked with precision, crushing and soaking the plants in water. Each batch required delicate control to ensure the plant essence merged with the water correctly, forming the green liquid. The liquid slowly turned a light, translucent green as it absorbed the plant properties.
After a few hours, she had 15 bottles of the green substance lined up before her, each glowing faintly. This was the base for her next task¡ªcreating the various supplemental solutions that would later be used in the Verdant Meridian Pill refinement process.
''Not bad, this should stabilize the more temperamental ingredients later on.''
It was a common misconception that the field of Alchemy only used plants as materials.
What the Alchemists refined was not plants, but the energy and medicinal properties within the materials, not exclusive to plants.
Rinne gathered everything¡ªthe spiritual beast carcasses left over from the battle, the blood of specific creatures, dragonfly wings, butterflies, and even worms. Each material contained unique properties she needed to extract and condense into solutions.
The various solutions she made does not have any name and they were not included in any book. This method was her own invention, designed to compensate for the spiritual energy control she couldn¡¯t yet perform. She named her solutions simply: Solution A, Solution B, and so forth, up to Solution H.
Traditional alchemists do not need those things as they could manage everything in a single cauldron with their spiritual energy. Meanwhile, Rinne¡¯s process was much more laborious, involving multiple stages and painstaking observation.
The Process of Creating Solutions A to H:
- First, she started with Solution A.
She poured in some of the green neutralizer and added finely ground butterfly wings. Butterfly wings, while fragile, held slight medicinal effects that could soothe volatile energies.
The neutralizer ensured their properties wouldn''t dissipate during the refining process. She allowed the mixture to simmer slowly, stirring at calculated intervals. Once the color shifted to a delicate blue, she knew the solution was ready.
-
- Next was Solution B, which involved spiritual beast meat, a potent and volatile ingredient.
She threw small chunks of the meat into the cauldron with a mixture of the green neutralizer and herbs that could stabilize the overwhelming energy it held.
As the heat activated the meat''s essence, the surface of the liquid bubbled vigorously, threatening to explode. Rinne quickly adjusted the temperature, maintaining a fine balance, until the mixture darkened to a deep amber.
-
- Moving on to Solution C, Rinne worked with the blood of a specific creatures, one known for its regenerative properties.
She handled this process with care, knowing that blood was trickier to refine.
Mixing it with the neutralizer and a hint of dragonfly wing dust, she observed the swirling red liquid. It thickened into a syrupy consistency after several hours, forming a deep crimson solution.
-
- Solution D was a blend of worms and moss.
They were seemingly innocuous ingredients but ones that carried hidden medicinal strength when refined properly. She crushed the worms and mixed them with the green neutralizer and moss, heating them in the cauldron until the liquid turned murky.
It took considerable effort to keep the balance just right¡ªif the moss overpowered the worms, the entire solution would be useless. But after precise adjustments, a soft green solution emerged.
-
- The creation of Solution E was simpler.
It was using only common plants with healing properties, mixed in with a few drops of Solution A to enhance its effects.
-
- Similarly, Solution F and Solution G each used a blend of insect-derived materials and plant essences. These required repeated heating and cooling cycles to draw out the right medicinal components.
-
- Finally, Rinne created Solution H, which was the most complex of all.
It required a small amount of spiritual beast blood mixed with rare herbs and a few drops from her previous solutions.
The process took hours, with Rinne meticulously adjusting the temperature and observing every minute change in color and consistency. At last, the liquid turned into a vibrant gold, shimmering under the soft glow of the cauldron fire.
-
After a full day of intense work, Rinne stood back and examined her progress. Before her, eight bamboo bottles sat neatly on the ground, each containing one of the Solutions A to H she had painstakingly refined.
"Not bad for someone without spiritual energy. But the real test begins tomorrow."
With the day¡¯s work done, Rinne allowed herself a brief moment of satisfaction. She had managed to refine the solutions necessary for the process ahead, overcoming challenges that even seasoned alchemists would hesitate to attempt without the right spiritual abilities.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
And then, the fourth day.
After a night of rest, Rinne woke early, prepared to face the most daunting part of her endeavor: refining the Verdant Meridian Pill. She sat cross-legged before her stone cauldron, mentally preparing herself for what was to come.
''Even a real alchemist would sweat refining this pill. But I don¡¯t have the luxury of spiritual energy right now. I¡¯ll have to rely on these crude methods,''
She spread out her tools and materials on the ground.
In front of her were the substitution materials she had collected over the first two days¡ªcommon ingredients that she was using in place of the rare, expensive herbs in the original recipe. The solutions she had created the previous day¡ªSolutions A to H, stood ready, their contents glowing faintly in the dim light of the morning.
While an experienced alchemist could refine everything in a single cauldron, Rinne had to separate each step, breaking down the process into multiple stages to ensure nothing went wrong.
In addition, the recipe she was using required substitution materials, and this increased the complexity. Each ingredient needed to be separately refined into a solution to mimic the medicinal properties of the original materials, with the small use of Solution A to H facilitating this intricate process.
After hours of effort, she had successfully produced five key solutions, each representing one of the vital ingredients of the original recipe:
- Thousand-Year Green Lotus Solution.
The first material she worked on was the solution for the Thousand-Year Green Lotus. Rinne placed all 15 stalks of finely ground Hundred-Year Spirit Grass into the cauldron, accompanied by Solution A, designed to stabilize the medicinal essence. She carefully adjusted the flame beneath the cauldron, raising the heat just enough for the grass to break down.
As the liquid started to bubble, she added small drops of Solution B to enhance the healing properties, her eyes sharp on the changing hue of the mixture. Hours passed, but finally, the liquid turned a vibrant green, indicating a successful refinement. Rinne sighed with relief, scooping the liquid into a bamboo bottle.
-
- Jade-Leaf Vine Solution.
Next, Rinne worked on the solution for Jade-Leaf Vine, using a mixture of finely sliced Ironback Creeper and Solution C. She stirred the mixture carefully, watching as the liquid began to bubble vigorously. Rinne adjusted the flame, her hand hovering over the cauldron, ready to intervene.
When the liquid reached critical temperature, she added drops of Solution D to reduce the volatility. The liquid slowly settled, turning into a deep green hue. Rinne scooped the mixture into another bottle.
-
- Emerald Heart Ginseng Solution.
The solution for Emerald Heart Ginseng was next, 105 finely sliced Mountain Moot Ginseng mixed with Solution E.
Rinne sat back, watching the ginseng dissolve slowly. After what felt like hours, the liquid turned into a thick green solution, and Rinne scooped it into another bottle.
-
- Verdant Soul Sap Solution.
For the Verdant Soul Sap solution, she used 250 drops of Wood Essence Resin.
The liquid was thick and sticky, so Rinne added Solution G to help thin the liquid. She monitored the liquid closely, stirring it slowly as the heat gradually melted it down. Then she added Solution H, which helped stabilize the energy within the liquid. After several long hours, the originally thick liquid finally broke down into a smooth green liquid.
-
- Evergreen Pearl Mushroom Solution.
The final was for the Evergreen Pearl Mushroom solution, using 48 Mossy Cap Fungus, Solution A and Solution C.
Within a few hours, the mushroom essence turned into a rich green solution. Rinne scooped it into another bottle and let out a sigh of relief.
-
With the five key solutions ready, Rinne set about preparing for the actual refinement of the Verdant Meridian Pill.
The process was long and laborious. Unlike a true alchemist who could control the entire refinement through spiritual energy, Rinne had to rely on careful timing and manual adjustments.
"This is the part where most alchemists would start showing off. I don¡¯t have that luxury,"
One by one, she added the five solutions into the cauldron.
As they mixed, she carefully monitored the temperature, pressing the stirring symbol in the cauldron at precise intervals to prevent the mixture from separating. Once they completely mixed, she added small doses of Solution A to H, each designed to maintain balance and enhance the medicinal properties of the final pill.
The cauldron bubbled and frothed, the mixture thickening and turning a deep shade of green. Rinne¡¯s eyes never left the cauldron, her hands steady as she adjusted the temperature and added ingredients at just the right moments.
"Come on, just a little more¡"
As time went by, her intense focus was unbroken, even as the outside world turned to night. With a day that was three times longer than the modern world, time felt prolonged and tiring.
Finally, the mixture was ready for the last stage: Pill Condensation.
Rinne gently tapped the symbols carved into the stone cauldron, her fingers moving deftly over the surface. The medicinal paste inside thickened and started to form into small, round shapes.
"Careful, careful¡"
She murmured, her attention fully on the pills taking form.
As time passed, the paste solidified further, until the first pill emerged, glowing faintly green. One by one, the cauldron ejected more pills, each of them similar in size and shape. After what felt like an eternity, Rinne held her breath as she caught the final pill.
15 mid-grade Verdant Meridian Pills.
Rinne was a little disappointed as she saw the green pills in her hand.
"They¡¯re not even high-grade... For all that effort, the result is barely passable. Still, it¡¯s better than nothing."
These pills, though acceptable given the circumstances, were far below the standards she had grown accustomed to from her vast alchemy knowledge.
Worse yet, she could sense traces of harmful substances within the pills¡ªan unavoidable result of using such an unusual array of ingredients, many of which weren¡¯t meant for consumption.
''I need to expel these impurities later with a Marrow Washing Pill.''
She thought as she carefully sealed the pills into the green bottle, which was used to store the Healing Pill from the second trial completion reward.
Exhausted, but somewhat satisfied, Rinne leaned back and let out a long sigh. The day had come to an end, and she had successfully refined the Verdant Meridian Pill using her own unconventional methods.
Chapter 013 – Unstable Spiritual Root
The night was still young, and the cave where Rinne had sought refuge was cloaked in silence, disturbed only by the distant calls of nocturnal creatures.
Not long after she had successfully refined the Verdant Meridian Pill, Rinne rested, her breathing slowly returning to normal after the intense alchemical process. Her body was exhausted, and her mind too, yet she felt a certain calm. The hardest part, the refinement, was over. Now came the more dangerous task.
As she sat cross-legged on the stone floor, she took a moment to mentally prepare herself. The brief hesitation she felt earlier¡ªwondering whether the pills she made would truly work¡ªhad vanished. There was no room for doubt now. The moment the pill had been successfully refined, all hesitation was gone.
She whispered softly, glancing at the fifteen green pills neatly arranged before her.
"I must take this step! Before this trial ends, I will possess a spiritual root!"
With that resolve in mind, she shifted into a meditative posture, taking in slow, deep breaths to calm her racing heart. She picked up one of the Verdant Meridian Pills, examining it for a moment before swallowing it whole.
The effect was immediate.
As soon as the pill settled into her system, an overwhelming wave of energy surged through her body. It was a force unlike anything she had felt before in her current life. The energy roared through her veins, seeking out her meridians, but instead of empowering her, it brought with it searing, unbearable pain.
Rinne gasped, her body instinctively tensing as the pain spread, centering around her lower abdomen.
Her meridians, particularly those near her dantian in the pubic region, began to twist and burn as if being forcefully reshaped by the medicinal properties of the pill. Her vision blurred, her clothes already soaked with sweat. Moments later, thin rivulets of blood seeped from her skin, the crimson staining her ragged clothes.
The pain was indescribable, unlike anything she had endured before.
''Perhaps this is what childbirth feels like...''
She couldn''t help but have the thought, though she had never experienced it herself. Each wave of agony was sharp, cutting through her body, threatening to break her. She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms, drawing blood. But she did not stop. She could not.
Compared to the backlash from the Gu worm that had nearly destroyed her in her past life, this was still bearable. She gritted her teeth and endured, repeating the mantra she had used for years:
''Pain is fleeting. Strength is eternal.''
The excruciating process lasted for an hour and a half, her body trembling as the pill''s effect gradually began to subside. But she knew this was only the beginning. The transformation had started, but her spiritual root was still incomplete.
Without hesitation, Rinne reached for another pill and swallowed it. Her hands trembled as she crushed a piece of the large healing pill with a nearby rock, breaking it into smaller portions. Between the painful transformations, she chewed the healing pill pieces, using their properties to restore her battered body.
After taking the sixth pill, something inside her shifted.
It was subtle at first, a faint change in the air around her. But as she focused, the sensation became clearer. She could sense it¡ªthe flow of spiritual energy in the atmosphere. The invisible, elusive force that only cultivators could feel now coursed around her, filling the cave like a gentle breeze.
Her eyes widened as the familiar sensation enveloped her, the same feeling she had once experienced during her second life, after stepping into the world of cultivation. Her heart raced with a mixture of joy and disbelief.
''I did it... I can sense spiritual energy.''
Without wasting a moment, she turned her focus inward, using her newfound ability to examine her meridians. It was there¡ªsmall, but unmistakable. A section of her meridians near her dantian had transformed. It had become her wood-attribute spiritual root, the key to cultivation. Though it was tiny, barely developed, it was enough to make her heart swell with triumph. She had succeeded.
But this was only the beginning.
''This root is still too small... it¡¯s far from enough.''
Rinne''s joy was short-lived. She knew that a small, barely formed spiritual root wouldn¡¯t be enough for her to cultivate effectively. She needed more¡ªmore transformation, more strength. Without pausing to celebrate, she continued taking the pills one by one, each time enduring the agony of transformation, each time healing her body with the fragments of the healing pill.
The process was grueling, and as the hours stretched on, it became harder to keep track of time. The pain was relentless, a constant reminder of the price she was paying for her pursuit of power. But with each pill, more of her meridians transformed, slowly but surely expanding her spiritual root.
By the time she consumed the final, fifteenth pill, the night had long since passed. As the light of dawn began creeping through the entrance of the cave, Rinne opened her eyes, her body trembling with exhaustion.
"Finally, it''s over!"
She could feel it¡ªa larger, more complete spiritual root pulsing within her meridians. The transformation was complete.
???
However, even though Rinne had successfully acquired a spiritual root, the process came at a great cost.
She leaned against the cold stone wall, her body wracked with tremors from the effort. Her newly formed spiritual root felt unstable, fragile even¡ªlike something that could break under the slightest strain. Worse, the pain caused by the transformation still throbbed deeply within her, as if every nerve in her body was alight.
"It feels like surgery without any anesthetic,"
Rinne muttered between labored breaths, her brow drenched in sweat. The ache was relentless, deep and gnawing, spreading from her dantian to every part of her body.
She had already consumed a few of the first-grade healing pills she had prepared, but their effects were negligible. They could heal superficial wounds and soothe minor injuries, but this pain ran much deeper than that. The transformation had scarred her internally, and there was nothing the healing pills could do to ease the discomfort. The feeling was so intense, it was as though someone had carved her open, leaving her with no reprieve.
If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
''I¡¯ll have to live with this for a while.''
She clenched her fists and exhaled slowly.
This pain wasn¡¯t something that could be fixed in a day. She guessed it might take a month, two months, or maybe even longer. With time, the spiritual root would stabilize, and when it did, the pain would subside. But for now, she had to endure it, her body just needed time to adjust.
But the pain wasn¡¯t the only issue.
As Rinne focused inward, trying to sense the spiritual root with more clarity, she realized how flawed it was. The root felt sluggish and impure. Every time she tried to gather spiritual energy, the process felt unnatural, slow¡ªlike dragging water through a rusted pipe.
"The Verdant Meridian Pills weren¡¯t refined well enough. This root is... weak!"
Rinne sighed, although she had prepared for this result.
While the pill had succeeded in forming a spiritual root, its quality left much to be desired. The root was riddled with impurities, making it inefficient at absorbing spiritual energy. Cultivation with such a root would be painstakingly slow. She would be far behind others with naturally purer roots, and the gap would only widen if she didn¡¯t do something about it.
Fortunately, this could still be fixed¡ªand she had a clue on how.
Spiritual roots could be nurtured and purified, though it wasn¡¯t an easy task.
Rinne closed her eyes and dove into the memories she had inherited from Roran. One particular set of memories came to the forefront: Roran¡¯s childhood, when his mother had prepared medicinal baths for him. She could see the scene clearly, as if it were her own experience. His mother, a skilled cultivator in her own right, had concocted these baths to strengthen and purify his spiritual root.
The details of the process were vivid in Rinne¡¯s mind. She watched through Roran¡¯s eyes as his mother prepared the herbs, each one carefully selected for its unique properties. The bath itself was a blend of rare medicines, designed to soak into the skin and nourish the root from within.
''Well, he''s just a child anyway, it doesn''t matter if I''ve seen it.''
Rinne wasn¡¯t bothered by the scenery of his body, given she had seen such things many times in her past life. She had seen far worse during her years of extracting memories. There had been playboys with far more... distasteful recollections.
But this bath, though potent, presented a new problem.
Many of the ingredients Roran¡¯s mother had used didn¡¯t exist in this realm. They were from somewhere else¡ªlikely the "middle world" that Rinne had heard mentioned in various memories from the powerful figures she had once hunted. Most likely, Roran¡¯s mother had cultivated those herbs herself, possibly using the planting space within her ancestral heritage necklace.
The "middle world" was an enigma. It was referenced in the memories of powerful individuals she had encountered in her past life, but details were sparse. From what she had gathered, it was a realm above this one, filled with higher-quality resources, techniques, and knowledge.
And if there was a middle world, there was likely an upper world and a lower world as well. It was becoming increasingly clear that this world she now lived in was the lower one¡ªlimited in resources, techniques, and knowledge.
From what she could piece together, Roran¡¯s mother had originated from the middle world.
For reasons unknown, she had entered this lower world and married into the Lareth clan. Her abilities, however, were far beyond what most in this realm could achieve. She had brought with her knowledge and resources that didn¡¯t belong here, including the medicinal bath she had used to nurture Roran¡¯s spiritual root.
''That¡¯s irrelevant to me.''
She didn¡¯t care much for the politics or mysteries of other realms. What mattered now was that the medicinal bath could work, even if she had to modify it using local materials.
While the original materials were out of her reach, Rinne wasn¡¯t without options.
Roran¡¯s memories provided her with the details of each ingredient and the effects they had. With her knowledge, she could find local materials that could serve as substitutions. It wouldn¡¯t be an exact match, but she believed she could substitute the ingredients and achieve something similar.
But before that, she had to solve a certain pressing issue.
???
Rinne sat cross-legged, her body trembling slightly from the constant pain radiating from her newly formed spiritual root.
She took a deep breath, trying to focus on the tasks ahead, but the sharp ache was a relentless reminder of the consequences of her transformation. While enduring the pain, she methodically began to note the tasks that she needed to complete and plan for the immediate future.
"First things first, I need to refine the Marrow Cleansing Pill."
The first and most urgent task: refining the Marrow Cleansing Pill. The harmful substances left behind by the Verdant Meridian Pills had begun to spread through her meridians, tainting her blood. The toxins needed to be purged before they caused any long-term damage. She would have to prepare the pill and use it to expel the dangerous residues from her body. This was her top priority.
Once she managed that, the next step would be to prepare for the medicinal bath to nurture her spiritual root.
According to Roran¡¯s memories, the bath was essential in raising the purity of the spiritual root¡ªa process his mother had started when he was just a toddler. He had taken the bath for eight years, and by now, his root purity had risen to an impressive 90%. Rinne knew she couldn''t afford to aim so high.
"I''m already seven years old, and I¡¯ve only got less than three years until I turn ten."
The bath was only effective for the first ten years of life, so her window of opportunity was limited. Her goal was modest compared to Roran''s¡ªa purity of 70%, the standard of many wealthy scions in this realm. If she could achieve that, she''d be content.
Gathering the herbs and materials for both the Marrow Cleansing Pill and the medicinal bath shouldn¡¯t pose too much of a problem. Once she joined a sect, such resources would be easier to obtain.
However, the thought of how costly the medicinal bath would be weighed on her. The bath needed to be taken regularly, and each session would require rare ingredients. The expense would drain her wealth rapidly.
"I¡¯ll need to work hard and earn enough spiritual stones,"
She thought, already bracing herself for the future. She knew that the path of cultivation was never easy, and her circumstances were far from ideal. She had come into this world with no family support, no powerful background, and now, a fragile and unstable spiritual root.
Another issue gnawed at her¡ªthe instability of her spiritual root.
It couldn¡¯t be used for cultivation until it stabilized, and that could take anywhere from a month to a year. If the worst-case scenario played out, and it took a full year to stabilize, it would create a massive problem for her. The annual assessment in any sect was a crucial event. Without a stabilized root, her cultivation would be minimal at best.
Rinne sighed deeply, her brow furrowing as she thought about the consequences. If she failed the assessment, she¡¯d be relegated to a handyman position in the sect. That would make everything harder, especially completing her ultimate goals. The danger of not having a spiritual root was gone, but now she had to worry about advancing her cultivation.
"I can¡¯t afford to be a mere handyman! I''ll need to compensate for my weak cultivation with body refining techniques."
She muttered to herself, frustration seeping into her voice. If her spiritual root remained unstable for too long, body refinement could be the key to passing the assessment.
Rinne couldn¡¯t help but sigh again, a sense of weariness washing over her. At the age of seven, she already felt the weight of the world pressing down on her.
"While other children are out playing, here I am, enduring all this pain and planning my next steps."
Her lament was quiet, but it echoed in her mind.
She spent the rest of the trial holed up in the cave, trying to get used to the constant pain.
It was as if her body was fighting itself, a battle she had no choice but to endure. During moments of reprieve, she made sure to wash her ragged clothes, scrubbing out the blood that had soaked through from her transformation. The last thing she needed was for others to notice something wrong with her when the trial ended.
''It would be best if no one realized what I''ve been through,''
For now, her best strategy was to keep a low profile, just as she always had. The more inconspicuous she appeared, the less attention she''d draw. That was the safest way to survive.
Finally, the one-week time limit passed. Rinne was sitting in the cave, her thoughts wandering when she felt a sudden warmth emanating from the wooden token she had been given at the start of the trial. She glanced down at it just in time to see it glow, the light pulsing for a brief moment before her surroundings blurred.
In the blink of an eye, she found herself sitting on the platform, along with other participants.
Chapter 014 – The Trials End
The sudden sensation of being transported jolted Rinne.
Her body felt weightless for an instant, and when her vision cleared, she found herself standing on the platform alongside the other participants. The abrupt shift in environment marked the trial¡¯s completion.
Rinne subtly shifted her weight, testing how much movement her body could handle. Despite her efforts to adjust to the pain in the cave, the throbbing ache from her unstable spiritual root still lingered, sharp and unrelenting. For days, she had been forced to remain still, each slight movement an agonizing task. The pain was far worse than she¡¯d anticipated.
A small sigh escaped her lips as she recalled her desperate solution in the cave.
The pain had grown unbearable, forcing her to use the Phantasmal Mirage Art, one of her most trusted techniques from her previous life. This art was intricate, involving multiple disciplines such as formations, music, and alchemy, allowing the user to exploit lights, sounds, and even fragrances to deceive the mind.
In the past, it had been one of her favorite techniques alongside Earthshadow and Featherstep technique, assisting her to sneak past sects and clan strongholds undetected. However, in her current condition, she lacked the strength to execute it at full capacity.
Still, she didn¡¯t need the technique in all its grandeur.
A simple application of self-hypnosis, using the art to block her brain¡¯s reception of pain signals, was more than sufficient for her purposes. With her current state, that was all she could manage.
''Reducing the pain by 90% should be enough, I can''t dull myself completely.''
She knew that it would be unwise to eliminate her pain completely, as it served as an important signal from her body to warn itself that something was wrong, and also as a means of knowing how far along the process of stabilizing her spiritual roots was. Therefore, she reduced her pain by about 90%, leaving a manageable stinging sensation centered in her lower abdomen.
Standing on the platform now, Rinne maintained a composed appearance.
The pain had become bearable, like a dull throb in the background. It was annoying, but no longer hindered her movements. She observed her surroundings, her gaze swept over the other participants as they materialized onto the platform one by one.
Immediately, tensions were visible. Some of the participants glared at one another with barely concealed hostility, grudges from the trial simmering beneath the surface.
A boy with a deep gash on his arm sneered at another who was nursing a bruise on his face. Across from them, a group of three stood together, their eyes filled with disdain as they looked down on the scattered wounded. It was clear that conflict had broken out during the trial, and more than a few had resorted to robbing others of their spiritual cores to meet the requirements.
One participant¡ªa tall, lanky youth with a smirk plastered on his face¡ªcasually playing with the spatial bag in his hand as if boasting his survival. Another, a boy with disheveled hair and a dirt-streaked face, stood hunched, clutching his side as if in pain but trying to keep a straight face.
Rinne could feel the resentment brewing in the air.
Some participants would likely carry grudges beyond this trial. But for now, they all had to suppress their grievances. After all, they had made it this far, and there was still the matter of being accepted into a sect.
Rinne glanced around more carefully. Many of the participants bore injuries, some more severe than others¡ªbut none looked to be on the verge of collapse. The wooden tokens had done their job, transporting them out of the trial before any permanent damage was inflicted. As for whether anyone had perished in the trial due to losing their token... well, Rinne didn¡¯t particularly care.
Such details weren¡¯t her concern.
The next step was the counting of spiritual cores, an event she already knew was merely a formality.
Thanks to the memories of Elder Soryn, Rinne was aware that the participants had been under constant observation via the Mirror Viewing Platform throughout the trial. The elders had witnessed every movement. The counting of cores wasn¡¯t what determined their fate. What truly mattered was whether they had caught the attention of an elder.
Those who had impressed an elder would be invited to join their sect as inner disciples or, in rare cases, as personal disciples if their talent was exceptional. For those who hadn¡¯t stood out, they would still be allowed to choose a sect, but they would begin as outer disciples with no special privileges.
As for herself, Rinne wasn¡¯t particularly concerned with becoming an inner disciple.
The title was prestigious, yes, but it wasn¡¯t her current priority. She had too many secrets, things she couldn¡¯t afford to reveal. The matter of her spiritual root had been solved for now, but there were other risks. Her knowledge of alchemy and formations, for one, was far too advanced for a child her age. If she stood out too much, people might start asking questions¡ªdangerous questions.
''I can¡¯t draw too much attention. Not yet. They might think I¡¯m some ancient soul possessing a child¡¯s body.''
If anyone suspected something unnatural, she could be accused of being an old soul who had seized a child¡¯s body through forbidden techniques. That would be just creating her endless trouble.
Fortunately, she knew that the Mirror Viewing Platform had not extended its surveillance into the cave where she had drawn formations and refined pills. Her most important actions had remained unseen.
As she mulled over these thoughts, a familiar voice interrupted her.
"Rin! It¡¯s good you¡¯re also fine."
Turning, Rinne saw Kael hurrying toward her, his expression bright with relief.
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
She replied, a small smile tugging at her lips.
"You too. Thanks for the talisman. It was very useful."
The fireball talisman he gave her was indeed useful, but she didn''t tell him clearly what she used it for. He would never imagined that the talisman he gave was not used for combat, but instead to ignite a fire to refine pills.
Kael grinned, clearly pleased with himself.
"I¡¯m glad it helped! I was worried for a bit, especially when I didn¡¯t see you in the later stages of the trial."
It seems like he took the time to look for Rinne.
Unfortunately, there was no way he would be able to find her, as she had locked herself in her hiding cave from the third day until the end.
"I stayed out of sight, it was safer that way."
Rinne said simply, her tone neutral. She wouldn¡¯t reveal the extent of her injuries or her struggles.
Kael nodded in understanding.
"Yeah, a lot of people were fighting over cores in the end. It got ugly."
"I can see that."
Rinne glanced at the participants still glaring at one another.
The crowd around them continued to shift, some participants banding together while others eyed potential enemies. Grudges, alliances, and unspoken rivalries simmered just below the surface.
A few minutes later, the result assessment process began.
The examiner elder teleported onto the platform, followed by representatives from various sects. It was the same elder who had announced the start of the third trial, but now he looked different. Dressed in the official robes of the Immortal Alliance, he projected an aura of authority and importance that was absent during his earlier casual appearance.
''Now he decides to act the part.''
Rinne glanced at the elder''s formal attire, silently noting this.
She couldn''t help but feel that it was a bit theatrical¡ªputting on robes just for the show of it.
"The trial has concluded. It is now time to assess your results."
The elder announced, his voice was loud and clear, carrying across the platform as he motioned for the participants to line up. One by one, they stepped forward, presenting their spatial bags for examination.
As the participants formed a line, the examiner elder began the assessment. One by one, they stepped forward to present their spatial bags for evaluation. The platform buzzed with tension as everyone waited for their turn, each eager to know the results and hoping to catch the attention of the sect elders.
The examiner scanned the next spatial bag with his spiritual sense.
"Neryn Solas, 197 spiritual cores,"
A murmur ran through the crowd. Neryn, a lean boy with a confident look, stepped forward, holding his chin high. His performance had clearly caught the interest of several sect elders.
An elder from the Horizon Peak Sect said first, his robes marked with golden embroidery symbolizing the sect''s status.
"An impressive number. Horizon Peak Sect extends an invitation for you to join as an inner disciple."
"The Shimmering Moon Sect would also welcome you among our inner disciples. You have potential."
A second elder, cloaked in the dark blue robes of the Shimmering Moon Sect, also followed in.
Neryn glanced between the two elders, his eyes betraying a mix of excitement and pride. After a brief pause, he respectfully bowed to the elders. He straightened, his voice firm as he committed to his decision.
"I am honored by both offers, but I choose to join the Shimmering Moon Sect."
The elder from the Shimmering Moon Sect gave a satisfied nod, while the elder from the Horizon Peak Sect shrugged indifferently. The other participants watched with a mix of envy and admiration as Neryn stepped aside.
The examiner continued the process, calling forth the next participant.
"Elara Myris, 215 spiritual cores."
Elara, a tall and composed girl with sharp eyes, stepped forward. A hint of satisfaction crossed her face at the mention of her count.
An elder from the Silent Gale Sect announced, his voice full of admiration.
"Such a remarkable result, the Silent Gale Sect invites you to join our ranks as an inner disciple."
"The Scarlet Sun Sect also extends an invitation. With us, you will find your path to greatness."
A second elder, this one with the unmistakable crimson sash of the Scarlet Sun Sect, added.
Elara stood silent for a moment, her eyes scanning the faces of the two elders. There was a flicker of calculation in her gaze. She then bowed gracefully.
"Thank you both for the invitations. I accept the offer from the Silent Gale Sect,"
"You have made a wise decision. We look forward to seeing you grow."
The elder from the Silent Gale Sect nodded in acknowledgment.
Finally, the examiner turned to the next participant in line, his eyes assessing.
"Deren Keral, 352 spiritual cores,"
He announced, prompting a stir of interest among the gathered elders. Deren stepped forward with a look of pride, puffing his chest slightly at the impressive total.
An elder from the Obsidian Gate Sect praised, his voice carrying a hint of satisfaction.
¡°Excellent, the Obsidian Gate Sect would be honored to have you as an inner disciple."
"The Horizon Peak Sect also extends an invitation. Your abilities are not to be overlooked."
Not to be outdone, a second elder from the Horizon Peak Sect chimed in.
Deren took a moment, glancing between the two elders, his excitement palpable. He bowed deeply before responding,
"Thank you for your generous offers. I choose to join the Obsidian Gate Sect."
"A fine choice. You will have the guidance you need to reach your full potential."
The elder from the Obsidian Gate Sect nodded approvingly.
Watching the scene unfold, Rinne could only sigh internally,
''Hypocrites. They call themselves righteous, yet they praise robbery as skill.''
She knew very well that obtaining such a large number of spiritual cores was nearly impossible through regular hunting. The so-called "righteous" sects often operated under a veneer of justice, yet they condoned underhanded tactics if it benefited their disciples.
''What''s the difference between them and an evil cultivator? Perhaps just the cultivation method.''
Rinne couldn''t help but ponder, the thought felt bitter in her mind.
Her eyes flicked toward the elders as she continued her silent observations. The hypocrisy extended to the Immortal Alliance''s strict stance on cultivation methods. The Alliance banned any method they deemed "unorthodox" without truly considering its nature.
A method like Gu cultivation, which raised a Gu insect inside the user''s body by feeding it the user¡¯s vitality, wasn''t inherently evil. It was harmful, certainly, but the practice itself caused no direct harm to others. And yet, the Alliance labeled such methods as "forbidden techniques" and hunted down anyone who practiced them.
Yet, despite their hypocrisy, she was here to join their ranks. For now, the sects represented safety and an opportunity to gather resources. They were her best chance for protection in a world where strength ruled.
She thought with a touch of bitterness.
''Maybe I¡¯m no different... Perhaps I¡¯m even worse, considering all I did in my second life.''
This was the trend of the world. The strong oppressed the weak, and everyone scrambled to survive. She was just one person and could not go against the current, no matter how much she despised it.
Chapter 015 – The Last Glance
The assessment process continued.
Each participant''s turn marked by the announcement of their names and the number of spiritual cores they had gathered. The atmosphere was tense; every whisper of a new total sent ripples of excitement, jealousy, or dread through the remaining participants.
Some children still standing in line shifted nervously, their eyes darting to the examiner and the elders who watched the process with hawk-like scrutiny.
Kael stood among them, his nerves growing as he observed the sequence unfold.
One child after another stepped forward, each submitting their spatial bags, and each seemingly filled with an abundance of spiritual cores. Kael¡¯s own total was pitiful in comparison. He had gathered only 16 cores, a number that took him every ounce of courage and strength to obtain through hunting spiritual beasts.
Yet here he was, surrounded by others who had easily amassed hundreds. His anxiety was written all over his face, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his robe.
"What if I fail? If I don¡¯t have enough cores, will I be sent back home?"
Rinne stood beside Kael, with a presence a stark contrast to the tension radiating from him.
She observed the unease etched across his features, yet her own expression remained serene and composed, as though the impending results held no weight for her. After casting a brief, appraising glance at Kael, she spoke in a calm and soothing tone that seemed almost detached from the gravity of the moment.
"You¡¯ll be just fine. You''re not the worst one here."
Her eyes scanning the surroundings before she gestured subtly with a tilt of her head.
Kael followed her gaze, taking in the scene more fully for the first time. He noticed that while there were many children eagerly lining up to submit their results, there were also quite a few who remained where they stood. They kept their heads low, their expressions blank or filled with resignation.
Some of these participants bore visible signs of being victims¡ªscratches, torn clothes, and bruises that hinted at altercations. They had no spatial bags in their possession; they had been robbed by the ones currently basking in glory.
Others, however, simply stood there as though disconnected from reality, looking more like shadows than people. They had neither the skills nor the courage to hunt spiritual beasts, spending the entire trial in hiding. There were many who had nothing to show, some because they had been preyed upon, and others because they had been too weak to even try.
In comparison, he had fought for every one of his 16 spiritual cores.
"How many spiritual cores did you end up with?"
The question slipped out, driven by an insatiable curiosity that he couldn''t suppress.
But Rinne''s next words left him stunned.
"Zero."
Rinne replied with an air of nonchalance, her gaze drifting to the platform where participants continued to step forward.
Kael blinked, momentarily stunned by her response. "Zero?" he repeated, his voice a blend of disbelief and concern. His eyes softened, his view of the situation shifting.
"Did... did you also get robbed?"
He suspected that she might be one of those unfortunate enough to fall prey to theft, given the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.
She shook her head slightly, her expression inscrutable.
"No, I just didn¡¯t bother to collect any."
Kael paused, taken aback by her words.
Surprise mingled with confusion as he processed her statement. He couldn''t understand why could she maintain such calmness in this situation. The atmosphere was charged with anxiety, and yet Rinne appeared unfazed.
¡°Wait, why are you so calm about this? You¡¯re going to get eliminated!"
He paused for a moment before continuing, this time his tone lowered.
"How about this, I could share my cores with you. Half of them, even.¡±
As he said that, his hand had already touched the spatial bag on his belt. It could be seen clearly that Kael was serious. He really planned to give half of the spiritual cores he collected to Rinne.
Rinne¡¯s gaze softened, but her tone remained steady as she shook her head.
"Actually, you don¡¯t need to worry. All the participants here have already passed as outer disciples. This trial only gives us the opportunity to become inner disciples. There is no elimination, even if we do poorly."
She replied flatly as her eyes briefly flicked to the participants still standing on the platform, each one grappling with their own fate, before returning to Kael''s gaze.
"I plan to join as an outer disciple."
Her casual declaration caught Kael off guard.
For the first time, he felt his perception of this beggar child shifting. In his eyes, Rin wasn¡¯t a beggar at all, the calm demeanor and mysterious aura set Rin apart from others.
???
As the young master of the Verin clan, Kael had never known what it meant to be short of money.
He was never stingy with others, especially children his age whom he wanted to befriend. His upbringing taught him the value of generosity, especially when it came to children his age, as his father always said:
¡ª Friendship is easy to forge when you give others gifts.
Over the years, he amassed many friends, but he quickly realized most of them were drawn by what he could give them. Whenever he offered gifts or support, their eyes would light up, but it was the excitement of a prize, not genuine friendship.
Stolen novel; please report.
But Rin... Rin was different.
Kael couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on it. Despite being a child in ragged clothing, Rin exuded a calmness and confidence that didn¡¯t match that small frame or shabby appearance. When Kael had given Rin five of his clan''s prized Fireball Talismans, Rin had barely glanced at them before pocketing them with the same indifference as if accepting an apple.
That scene had left him bewildered. These were Fireball Talismans crafted by the Verin clan, renowned in Elaria Town and valued at 500 gold coins, or 50 low-grade spiritual stones per piece. Yet, Rin had acted as though they were no more special than pebbles on the road.
And then, the conversation just now.
The trial of the immortal alliance recruitment ceremony changes every year and the detailed information should only be known to a small number of people. How could Rin know about the information regarding the third trial this year, even though even fairly large clans like the Verin clan didn''t know about it?
Kael couldn''t help but speculate, his thoughts racing.
''Rin must be from an important clan, one more influential than mine.''
The idea seemed far-fetched, yet it was the only explanation why his clan''s Fireball Talismans failed to make an impression.
Kael still couldn''t fathom why Rin showed up to the Immortal Alliance recruitment ceremony dressed like a beggar. Maybe Rin was disguising himself to escape pursuit of someone?
There were many holes in his theory, but at ten years old, Kael still struggled to piece together complicated scenarios. Kael¡¯s imagination filled the gaps with intricate scenarios, each one more elaborate than the last.
Nevertheless, he liked to imagine grand possibilities.
''If Rin is choosing to start as an outer disciple, there must be a reason.''
He admired Rin''s composure and thought that perhaps befriending Rin was a more valuable move than any he had made before. To show his sincerity, Kael even considered joining as an outer disciple, intending to follow Rin to whichever sect he chose.
''Maybe he''s aiming for a deeper plan, something grander than I can ever imagine.''
Kael looked at Rin, who stood quietly amidst the crowd, showing no signs of concern about his poor result in the trial. Unlike the other children who desperately clung to their successes or trembled in fear of their failures, Rin seemed beyond such trivialities.
???
Time passed, and all the participants who had stepped forward to submit their results had been assessed.
The atmosphere grew tense as the final results were tallied. Now, only those who hadn¡¯t moved remained standing in the background, silently contemplating their next steps. The examiner elder scanned the area one last time, his gaze stern and penetrating.
He called out, his voice carrying a hint of impatience.
"Is there anyone else?"
His words were not loud but could be heard by everyone present, but none of the remaining participants responded. They were still silent and did not move from their respective places.
Rinne glanced sideways at Kael, noticing his hesitation.
"Why aren¡¯t you stepping forward?"
She asked curiously.
"It doesn¡¯t matter how many cores you have, even if it¡¯s just one. The mere act of stepping up shows determination, and that holds value in the eyes of some elders."
Rinne already knew from Elder Soryn¡¯s memories that Kael had nothing to worry about, he would receive an invitation from the Verdant Blade Sect. All he needed to do was step forward and hand over the cores he had collected.
Kael slowly shook his head.
"I''m not concerned about being an inner disciple, I want to join as an outer disciple, just like you."
Rinne blinked, caught off guard for a moment. Her earlier comments seemed to have changed his determination.
She let out a soft sigh, lightly shaking her head.
"I don¡¯t understand why you would choose the harder path when an easier one is readily available."
Kael remained silent and offered no response to her words. Rinne chose not to pressure him. It was his decision, after all, and she felt it was important to respect it.
The examiner elder, noticing that no other participants stepped forward, nodded curtly to signal the conclusion of the assessment.
"In that case, the assessment is concluded, all of you may now choose the sect you wish to join."
After making that announcement, the elder intended to go back to his boat, but he postponed it when he saw someone raised his hand.
Amidst the group, a young boy stood nearby, his hand raised hesitantly.
"Elder, can I still join a sect? I was under the impression that if we failed, we¡¯d be sent back home."
His words quivered, showcasing the depth of his anxiety and the weight of his concerns.
The elder raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on his lips as he scoffed lightly.
"Who said anything about failure? There is no such thing as failure here. Even if you didn¡¯t do well in this trial, you can still choose any sect to join as an outer disciple. However..."
He paused for dramatic effect, casting a glance at the group of eager, hopeful faces before him,
"Your treatment won¡¯t be as favorable as those who made it as inner disciples."
A wave of relief washed over the children, their hearts lightening at the elder''s words. It didn''t matter even if they could only start out as outer disciples. At most they just need to be able to work hard.
Not long after, the sound of wind and rustling fabric filled the air as several flying boats descended upon the scene. Each bore the emblem of a different sect, their colors and designs denoting their unique heritage. The air buzzed with the flurry of movement as senior brothers and sisters disembarked from the boats, moving swiftly to maintain order.
One of the senior cultivators, his voice booming across the platform.
"Those who wish to join the Azure Sky Sect, line up here!"
"Those for the Crimson Wind Sect, line up here!"
The area quickly turned chaotic as participants rushed toward the flying boats, eager to secure a place in the sects of their choice. Despite the invitations, or lack thereof¡ªeach sect had a limited capacity, and everyone knew that space was precious. The boats could only accommodate a set number of new disciples, and once they reached their limit of 500, they would depart.
Rinne watched the bustling scene, her eyes sharp and calculating. She was already moving, seeking out the specific boat she wanted. Kael hurried to keep up with her, his curiosity getting the better of him.
He couldn''t help but asked, his voice tinged with excitement and apprehension.
"Which sect are you planning to join, Rin?"
"Frostfire Sect."
She replied succinctly, not bothering to elaborate.
Kael looked slightly confused but didn¡¯t question her further. Rinne had her reasons, that much he understood.
In truth, she had chosen the Frostfire Sect after careful consideration. If she wanted to solve her problems as efficiently as possible, joining a sect with the finest knowledge and resources in alchemy was the obvious choice.
While several sects, including the Azure Sky Sect and Verdant Blade Sect, matched this criterion, Rinne had weighed factors like the sect''s location, architectural style, local customs, and available specialties. The Frostfire Sect seemed the most convenient and suitable for her plans.
Soon, she saw the Frostfire Sect¡¯s boat, with its symbol elegantly engraved on the side of the boat. Without hesitation, she stepped towards it. Kael followed closely behind her, determined to join her on the path she had chosen. The line for the Frostfire Sect was relatively short compared to the others, which suited Rinne perfectly.
Standing in line, Kael glanced at the emblem and then back at Rinne, feeling a surge of determination.
"Frostfire Sect, huh?"
He murmured to himself.
As they moved forward, awaiting their turn to board the boat, Kael''s mind wandered back to the third trial. It had been a grueling process, but now, with the end in sight, a new journey was beginning.
''Rin always seems to know exactly what he¡¯s doing. If he¡¯s going there, then so am I.''
Following Rin into the Frostfire Sect seemed like the right step, a decision that might change the course of his life in ways he couldn¡¯t yet foresee.
However, what he didn¡¯t know was that this would be the last time he would see Rin. Once they joined the sect and separated, he would never find the boy named Rin again.
Chapter 016 – A Silent Observer
It took three days for the flying boat to reach the Frostfire Sect.
Throughout the journey, Rinne kept to herself, sitting quietly in the shadows. She had no desire to draw attention. Her ragged clothes set her apart from the wealthy children aboard, who wore fine silks and well-made garments. As usual, she was ignored by them, and that suited her just fine. She wasn¡¯t there to socialize.
Meanwhile, Kael, being from the prominent Verin Clan, quickly found himself mingling with the other clan children. He was soon surrounded by a small group, eager to make connections with him. They wore robes spun from fine silk, adorned with clan insignias and accessories that reflected their wealth.
He was a natural in these social circles, having grown up surrounded by privilege and power. One by one, they began introducing themselves, each child eager to make a good impression and establish their status within the group.
The boy with the silver-threaded robe was the first to step forward, a confident smile on his face.
"I''m Arven from the Tylan Clan. My family controls talisman production and trade in three major cities. If you ever need a high-quality talisman, we¡¯re the ones to go to."
A few others nodded in acknowledgment, clearly familiar with the Tylan name. Talisman crafting was a highly respected trade, and Arven¡¯s family was known for their skill.
Next was the elegant girl, who had already boasted about her single spiritual root. She raised her chin slightly as she spoke, her voice smooth and assured.
"Liraen, from the Solis Clan. We run the largest alchemy business in the northern provinces. Our pills are used by some of the highest-ranking cultivators, including sect elders."
She gave a satisfied smile, clearly pleased with her family¡¯s renown.
Following her was a boy with sharp eyes and a smirk.
"Jorun, from the Veylan Clan. We specialize in weapon refining. My clan¡¯s smiths can forge spirit swords that cut through even the toughest defenses. I already have a custom blade waiting for me once I¡¯m accepted as a disciple."
They turned their attention to Kael, waiting for his introduction.
He didn¡¯t hesitate to step into the circle, his posture straightening as he spoke.
"Kael Verin, from the Verin Clan. We might not have as many shops as the Tylan or Solis clans, but our talismans are in high demand, especially with some of the more exclusive clients. We¡¯ve made a name for ourselves through quality over quantity."
There was a murmur of approval as the other children recognized the Verin name. Though not as widespread as the other clans, the Verins were still known for their craftsmanship and connections.
Liraen said with a nod.
"Ah, the Verin Clan... I¡¯ve heard your talismans are some of the best when it comes to long-lasting enchantments. Impressive."
Kael smiled, accepting the compliment. "We take pride in our work."
As the group continued to chat, it became clear that this was more than just casual conversation¡ªit was a subtle competition, each child trying to one-up the others with tales of their family¡¯s influence, wealth, and power. Kael held his own in the conversation, recounting how his family¡¯s talismans had been sought after by traveling cultivators and smaller sects alike, solidifying their reputation as a go-to for high-quality, reliable talismans.
As the group engaged in their discussion, Rinne watched from the shadows, her expression calm and indifferent.
She didn¡¯t fit into the group of wealthy children, nor did she have a place among the commoner children who had formed their own circle on the other side of the boat. These commoners were hesitant to interact with the rich, but they were just as unwelcoming toward her.
But Rinne wasn¡¯t bothered about this, she was more interested in observing the people around her.
Calmly, she studied them, noting their names and faces. Several of them were familiar to her¡ªnot in this life, but from her previous life. Some of these wealthy children had been her victims when she was an evil cultivator, and this sect itself had once been her target. She recognized them well, though they had no idea who she truly was.
Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.
As her gaze swept over the group, she noted a few faces she didn¡¯t recognize. Either these children were not in the sect when she had attacked, or they had already perished before her arrival back then. Regardless, it didn¡¯t matter now. That life was behind her. Her current goal was simply to stay inconspicuous, hidden, and away from trouble.
With nothing more to learn from observing them, Rinne quietly left the boat¡¯s hall. She slipped away unnoticed, finding a secluded place where she could rest, away from the noise and chatter of the others.
"Ah, that''s right! Rin...?"
Kael, completely engrossed in his new social circle, had initially planned to introduce Rinne to his new friends. However, by the time he remembered her and glanced around, she was already gone.
And then time passed.
As the boat neared its destination, a senior disciple named Faylen appeared before the group, his presence commanding their attention. He gathered the children in one spot, his eyes scanning the young faces before him.
"Welcome, all of you, to the Frostfire Sect,"
Faylen said, his tone both congratulatory and instructive.
"From now on, you are entering a new stage of your lives. You¡¯ve passed the first hurdle and proven your worth. In recognition of that, I will now distribute your sect tokens and robes."
With a wave of his hand, he began distributing the sect¡¯s tokens and a set of robes to each child.
The robes were a deep, icy blue, with white patterns that mimicked the flow of frost and fire intertwining, representing the sect¡¯s dual nature. Once worn, the robes would only adjust to fit the wearer¡¯s body once activated with a touch of spiritual power. For those who had not yet reached the first level of the Spirit Gathering stage, the robes would remain stiff and oversized.
When it came to Rinne¡¯s turn, Faylen paused momentarily, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer than the others. He seemed to want to say something, but for a moment, he hesitated.
Rinne noticed his hesitation and spoke first.
"Senior Brother, is there something wrong?"
Faylen was caught off guard by her directness.
At first, Faylen had no intention of saying anything, but since Rinne had asked, he decided to speak.
"I remember you. You¡¯re the beggar child who asked me to use the Dust Cleaning Technique on you back in Elaria Town."
Rinne nodded, acknowledging it with no particular expression.
But secretly, Rinne''s mind wandered. She didn''t recognize this person''s face and had to search for him from her stored memories during their brief conversation. She discovered that this person was Faylen, the personal disciple of Elder Maelis, one of the most respected elders in the sect.
Faylen seemed to contemplate his next words before he closed the conversation.
"That¡¯s about it. Good luck."
What he didn¡¯t mention was the disappointment he felt after observing Rinne¡¯s performance during the trials.
He had been watching her during the trial, and though Elder Maelis had spoken highly of her potential, her decision to hide during the third trial had left Faylen disillusioned.
As Rinne listened, her mind quietly assessed Faylen.
In her past life, she had never crossed paths with him because by the time she launched her attacks on the Frostfire Sect, Faylen had already perished, killed in battle against a 7th-grade demonic beast inside a secret realm.
She mentally noted the strength of spiritual and demonic beasts:
- 1st-Grade: Equivalent to Spirit Gathering stage.
- 2nd-Grade: Equivalent to Foundation Establishment stage.
- 3rd-Grade: Equivalent to Core Formation stage.
- 4th-Grade: Equivalent to Nascent Soul stage.
- 5th-Grade: Equivalent to Soul Transformation stage.
- 6th-Grade: Equivalent to Void Refining stage.
- 7th-Grade: Equivalent to Divine Ascension stage.
- 8th-Grade: Equivalent to Half-Step Immortal stage.
- 9th-Grade: Equivalent to True Immortal stage.
- 10th-Grade: Beyond True Immortal...
When she had died, she had only reached the Void Refining stage. Imagining the strength of a 7th-grade demonic beast was beyond her grasp, but she knew fighting one would have been a futile endeavor.
Still, knowing his fate stirred no feelings of pity or concern. His death had been a part of history long before her own demise, and he was, after all, just another stranger to her.
''He was a stranger... I don¡¯t interfere with fate,''
Faylen''s fate was sealed. She had no desire to interfere. Moreover, the demonic beast that had killed him had remained locked within the secret realm. There was no need to worry about it now.
After distributing the tokens and robes, Faylen addressed the group again.
"Once you have your tokens, they must be imprinted with your spiritual sense to officially mark you as members of the sect. For that, you must at least reach the first level of Spirit Gathering stage. For those of you from clans, this shouldn¡¯t be a problem."
He looked out at the group, his gaze lingering on the commoner children.
"For those of you who have not yet reached the Spirit Gathering stage, there will be a basic cultivation class tomorrow. You¡¯ll be provided with the first three levels of the Spirit Gathering manual and taught how to draw spiritual energy by an elder. For those of you who cannot read, there will be a basic literacy class as well."
The clan children barely paid attention to this part, many of them already familiar with the foundational steps. They exchanged knowing glances with one another while some commoners looked nervous at the prospect of starting so far behind.
Rinne paid little attention. She had no need for those classes.
Soon after, the boat finally arrived at the Frostfire Sect.
Chapter 017 - Arriving at the Frostfire Sect
The Frostfire Sect''s environment was as harsh as it was magnificent.
Located deep in the northernmost regions, its landscape was a frozen expanse of sharp mountains, perpetually covered in snow, with occasional wisps of steam rising from concealed geothermal cracks. Glacial winds roared across the cliffs, while icy rivers shimmered beneath a pale sun that struggled to rise above the horizon.
Yet, beneath the cold surface, pockets of intense heat emanated from the volcanic veins running below, creating a strange contrast of fire and frost.
As the flying boat approached the sect, the striking beauty of the terrain became fully apparent.
Inside the vessel, however, conditions were much more pleasant. A design etched on its hull controlled the temperature, providing a cozy warmth and shielding everyone from the biting cold outside. For the children on board, this was just a glimpse of the difficulties they would encounter at the Frostfire Sect.
The moment any of them stepped outside the boat, the reality of the Frostfire Sect¡¯s climate would hit them. The sect robe¡¯s protective abilities would become essential, as the chill would pierce to the bone for anyone without sufficient cultivation to withstand it.
These robes, adorned with a subtle flickering pattern of blue and red, could alleviate the biting cold with the touch of spiritual power, adjusting perfectly to the wearer¡¯s body. The design cleverly balanced style and practicality, perfect for life in a sect where fire and ice coexisted.
As the children were dismissed to change into their new sect robes, they dispersed throughout the boat. Some of the wealthier children flaunted their robes, activating the adjustment feature immediately with a flourish of spiritual power.
One of the wealthier children glancing nervously at the white expanse beyond.
"Is it really that cold out there?"
Another child from a prominent clan scoffed, adjusting his sect robe.
"You¡¯ll freeze if you don¡¯t know how to use spiritual power."
The commoner children, meanwhile, gathered more quietly, still unaccustomed to such luxurious clothing, unsure how to properly use the robe''s feature.
Rinne, unnoticed as usual, slipped into a secluded corner of the boat. Her ragged clothes, torn and dirty, were finally replaced with the crisp, new sect robe. Yet unlike the others, she chose not to activate the automatic adjustment.
Instead, she let the robe hang loosely, oversized and ill-fitting. It concealed her small frame, blending her into the group of commoner children who had not yet begun cultivating. She moved with deliberate humility, wanting no attention drawn her way, blending in among the weakest¡ªthose who had not yet learned to harness spiritual power.
One of the commoner children whispered nervously.
"I¡¯m not sure how to adjust mine,"
Another child replied.
"Just leave it, we¡¯re all the same here¡ªno spiritual power yet."
The boat finally arrived at the Frostfire Sect, its grand landing platform framed by massive glaciers and overlooking the sect¡¯s vast territory. As the children disembarked, the frigid air hit them all at once. The well-dressed children quickly activated the protective functions of their robes, but the commoners, including Rinne, bore the cold in silence, shivering in their oversized garments.
As they regrouped, Rinne, noticing Kael in the distance among the wealthier children, said nothing and quietly walked away. She blended into the crowd, disappearing without a trace.
Meanwhile, Kael was searching for her. He scanned the groups of disciples disembarking from the boat, looking for Rin¡¯s familiar figure, but to his dismay, he couldn¡¯t find Rin''s figure anywhere. His shoulders slumped slightly in disappointment, but he remained optimistic.
¡°We¡¯re in the same sect now. I¡¯ll definitely meet Rin again,¡±
He thought to himself, determined to find his friend at a later time.
The new outer disciples were then directed towards a dormitory located in the outer sect area, which would serve as their temporary living quarters.
It was a grand structure that showcased the unique architectural style of the Frostfire Sect. The walls were constructed from Glacium Stone, a material renowned for its ability to isolate extreme temperatures. This stone kept the cold of the northern region at bay, allowing the inhabitants to remain warm and unaffected by the biting cold outside.
The building was split into two sections, one for male disciples and one for female disciples, maintaining the sect''s policy of gender separation. Each section housed multiple rooms, with each room designed to accommodate four people, offering just enough space for basic necessities.
Faylen¡¯s voice echoed across the cold air, capturing everyone¡¯s attention.
"New disciples, listen closely! This dormitory is your temporary living quarters, and it is separated by gender. Males, you¡¯ll head there, the right section! Females, your dormitory is on the left!"
While speaking, he directed the new disciples with gestures, indicating where they should head.
"Register your name inside and assign yourself to a room. Don¡¯t linger too long. The orientation begins tomorrow."
With that, Faylen turned on his heel and left the group, not bothering to wait for questions. The newly recruited disciples exchanged glances, some excited, others nervous, and they began walking towards their assigned dormitories.
Rinne, however, did not follow the instructions.
She already knew the Frostfire Sect¡¯s grounds, including this dormitory¡¯s layout. She knew the details well enough to navigate without any help and was resolute in one fact¡ªthere was no way she would tolerate sharing a room with anyone. While the other children shuffled towards their dorms, she slipped away unnoticed.
Before walking through the cold, Rinne used her spiritual sense, gently injecting a bit of wood-attribute spiritual power, processed from the leftover spiritual power of the Verdant Meridian Pill¡ªto activate the size adjustment function of her sect robe.
The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.
The robe responded immediately. First, the size adjusted itself, shrinking to fit her small frame perfectly. It was a subtle shift¡ªone that made the previously loose garment snug and comfortable.
Next, she triggered the heat adjustment function, allowing the robe to insulate her from the biting chill. Though her spiritual root remained unstable and caused her constant pain, it still allowed her to use her spiritual sense without issue.
"Fortunately, I insisted on creating my spiritual root during the trial,"
Without it, she would have been forced to rely on a blood talisman again, wasting a chunk of her vitality each time she needed spiritual sense, shortening her lifespan in the process.
She knew, however, that this feature had its limits. The size adjustment would remain as it was until she decided to readjust again, but the heat regulation required a continuous supply of spiritual energy to maintain its function. The small amount she had used would only last a few hours at most. But for now, it was more than enough.
And then, she focused on the way.
Despite the cold, the Frostfire Sect was teeming with life¡ªplants infused with both ice and fire spiritual energy thrived in this harsh environment.
Towering Frostpine trees lined the walkway, their silvery needles glittering under the faint sunlight, each branch radiating cold, yet emanating a subtle, comforting warmth. Near the base of these trees, Snowberry bushes grew low to the ground, their bright red berries gleaming with a thin layer of frost, as if crystallized but somehow still ripe.
In one particularly eye-catching spot, she spotted a cluster of Frostfire lilacs. The delicate flowers had petals that appeared frozen solid, shimmering with an icy sheen. But as Rinne brushed her fingers across them, they were unexpectedly warm to the touch, emitting a soft heat that belied their fragile appearance. These rare plants held immense value, and Rinne didn¡¯t hesitate.
Without a second thought, Rinne began to collect everything in her path, from Snowberries to the frosted bark of the Frostpine trees, and even the tender petals of the Frostfire lilacs. She stored the plants inside her spatial bag, which she had obtained during the third trial.
''This spatial bag is most likely a hidden subsidy from the Immortal Alliance...''
The bag, despite being labeled as "lent" by the elder examiner at the time, had never been requested back.
This low-grade spatial bag, crafted from the stomach skin of a lake-swallowing toad, had the capacity of roughly the size of her bedroom during her previous life in the modern world¡ªan ample amount of space for someone in Rinne¡¯s current position. Though it paled in comparison to the vast planting space Roran once possessed, for now, it served her needs perfectly.
By the time she neared her destination, her bag was already full, brimming with the unique flora of the Frostfire Sect.
???
Rinne soon reached her destination, the Outer Affair Hall, its cold stone exterior rising before her.
The halls were relatively quiet at this time, with other new disciples still occupied with their arrival. Without hesitation, she entered and approached the front desk, where the teller, a woman named Talia Sartin, sat.
¡°I¡¯m here to register as an outer disciple, and I¡¯d also like to ask about my monthly resource allocation.¡±
Talia looked up as Rinne approached, her amber eyes flicking over the small figure in front of her. She recognized the new recruit immediately. The clean, unblemished robe and the kid''s stature were clear indicators of one of the recent inductees. Talia¡¯s sharp gaze briefly assessed Rinne, finding nothing of immediate interest.
Rinne, however, recognized Talia from memories she had harvested in her previous life. This woman was one of her victims. The Sartin clan which was Talia¡¯s family, had been a minor target in one of Rinne¡¯s more ruthless raids. Now she was just another face in the sect, a worker handling mundane tasks.
Talia spoke, her voice devoid of warmth.
"You''re quite early to register. The orientation hasn''t even started yet. Isn''t it tomorrow?"
Rinne didn''t hesitate, lying without so much as a blink.
"Yes, but my father told me to ignore the orientation. He said it was a waste of time and instructed me to register as soon as possible and begin practicing immediately."
She effortlessly spun a tale that painted her as the child of a cultivator family. Her calm demeanor and unwavering gaze gave the impression of confidence, as though she had every right to speak about her supposed father''s orders. In reality, her family were mere mortals, with no connection to the world of cultivators.
Talia raised an eyebrow, then laughed¡ªa short, humorless sound.
"Ha! Waste of time, huh? That''s quite accurate. And who is your father, exactly?"
It was an innocent question on the surface, but Rinne could sense the subtle probe behind it. In a sect like Frostfire Sect, where lineage and family ties often carried influence, knowing who someone''s father was could explain a lot about their confidence and actions.
Rinne gave a curt smile.
"I was told not to share personal information with strangers."
Talia blinked, a momentary flicker of surprise passing over her face. For a second, it seemed she might press further, but then she shrugged and dismissed the matter with a wave of her hand.
"Fine by me. It''s none of my business anyway. Take out your token."
Rinne obediently pulled out her sect token. While handing it over, she discreetly used her spiritual power to imprint her information into the token, linking it officially to her identity.
Talia reached out with her spiritual sense, quickly scanning the token for the registration. She then glanced at the records before pulling out a small pouch and two porcelain bottles.
"Alright, your allocation for this month as an outer disciple: ten spiritual stones, a blue bottle with ten Spirit Gathering Pills, and a green bottle with ten Healing Pills. That¡¯s all for now."
Rinne took the items without a word, briefly inspecting them before slipping them into her storage bag.
But she didn¡¯t leave just yet.
"I¡¯d also like to rent a small house with a courtyard in the outer sect area. The cheapest available."
Talia raised an eyebrow, staring at Rinne for a moment. She tapped her chin in thought before answering.
"A house, huh? There¡¯s one vacant right now. It''ll cost you 5 spiritual stones per month. Are you sure?"
For outer disciples, they received an allocation of 10 spiritual stones each month. Since the rent cost 5 spiritual stones, this meant that half of their monthly allocation was spent on rent.
Talia glanced at Rinne¡¯s unassuming figure, silently noting how most outer disciples, especially the ones from poorer backgrounds¡ªtypically chose to live in the dorms to save their spiritual stones. Sharing a room with three others might not be ideal, but it allowed them to keep all 10 spiritual stones for other needs. Yet, this kid seemed more concerned about privacy than conserving her resources.
Without hesitation, Rinne nodded in agreement.
"I¡¯ll take it."
The decision to rent a small, private house was a necessary one. Sharing a dorm room with three other disciples would have been far too risky, and now she could avoid any unnecessary entanglements.
Seeing the firm determination in Rinne¡¯s eyes, Talia decided not to press the matter any further. It was clear that this child had made up her mind, and nothing she said would change it.
After all, her job was simply to handle the paperwork, not to question the choices of disciples.
"Alright, five spiritual stones,"
Rinne took out five spiritual stones, which had not yet been warmed up in her bag, and placed them on the table.
Talia took the payment without a word, her fingers brushing over the stones to confirm their authenticity, before quickly finishing the registration. She took out a token and handed it to Rinne, who then accepted it.
"It¡¯s yours for the month, but make sure to pay on time. If you don¡¯t, we won¡¯t hesitate to kick you out."
Without lingering, Rinne gave a slight nod, then turned on her heel and exited the building.
A sense of satisfaction settled over her. The transaction was complete, and with the house secured, she no longer had to worry about sharing her space with others.
Chapter 018 - Rinnes Secret Atelier
After finalizing the deal at the Outer Hall Affairs building, Rinne held the small house token given to her by the teller.
The token was more than just proof of ownership; it contained a detailed record of the house¡¯s location, etched within its core. She swept her spiritual sense over it, quickly understanding the directions to her new home.
"Right. This is where I''ll stay."
The token also functioned as a key, allowing only the owner¡ªor those they explicitly permitted¡ªentry into the house.
While this security measure was significant, it couldn''t prevent access to anyone at the Nascent Soul stage or above. However, that didn¡¯t concern Rinne for now, as Nascent Soul cultivators in the sect were elders with no reason to interfere with a mere outer disciple. In the future, she considered improving the house¡¯s defensive formations if she stayed long enough, or perhaps moving to a better home.
''Perhaps I''ll improve it when the time comes.''
Rinne finally arrived at her destination¡ªa modest structure tucked away in a quieter area of the Frostfire Sect¡¯s outer disciple quarters. The cold mountain wind whipped through the air, carrying with it the bite of frost, but the small house stood firm. It was built with simple yet sturdy materials, a stone building that insulated the interior from the biting cold outside.
The stone walls shimmered faintly with lingering spiritual energy, and as Rinne pressed the token against the door, it unlocked with a quiet click, granting her entry.
''It¡¯s smaller than expected¡ but it''ll do.''
She stepped inside and immediately scanned the house with her spiritual sense, taking in every detail. The interior was basic but functional. The common room had a low stone table, a couple of old chairs, and a modest fireplace that still retained a trace of warmth from its last use.
The walls were bare stone, but Rinne¡¯s sharp eyes caught a few scratches that seemed deliberate¡ªlikely remnants of the house¡¯s previous owner. The scratches formed crude mnemonics for a Spirit Gathering manual, a clear sign that the former resident had tried to use the house as a study space.
She activated the house token once again, this time reading the recorded history embedded within it.
The previous owner had been a male disciple at the 5th Spirit Gathering stage, who had died during a mission. His death meant he could no longer pay the monthly rent, and the house was reclaimed by the Outer Affairs Hall. They had already cleaned the place, confiscating anything of value left behind.
"Rest in peace, senior brother."
To Rinne, this information was irrelevant¡ªjust another faceless story in a world filled with fleeting lives.
Rinne walked down the short hallway, peeking into the small kitchen and then entering the bedroom, which was just large enough for a single bed and a wooden chest. She inspected everything methodically, ensuring no hidden threats or prying eyes were left behind.
After a thorough examination, Rinne let out a quiet breath, her thoughts quickly shifting to the task at hand. The house was adequate for her current needs, but she wasn¡¯t one to leave things in their basic state. She took out a small knife from her spatial bag, the familiar weight in her hand steadying her. Kneeling at the corner of the common room floor, she began carving a series of formations into the stone.
Her first formation was one she often used¡ªthe Evil Blood Sacrifice Formation.
Despite its ominous name, the formation¡¯s original purpose was not inherently evil. It was designed to extract energy from various sources, allowing the user to substitute spiritual stones with other materials. However, certain evil sects had twisted its function, modifying it to drain vitality from mortals and other living beings, which led to its dark reputation.
Rinne, however, planned to use it for its intended purpose, without the sinister modifications. With this formation, she could fuel her formations with other materials that provide spiritual energy, like how she used Spirit Gathering pills during the trial before. This was useful because she was not rich at the moment and her supply of spirit stones was limited.
Once she finished carving the first formation, Rinne moved on to her second task.
This one was far more intricate, the Array Automatic Creation Formation¡ªa formation she created that could automatically project a design from her mind and imprint it on the stone surfaces of the room. It was one of her favorite creations, sparing her the tedious labor of manually inscribing each rune. Instead, with this technique, she could "print" an entire formation in an instant.
''This will save me a lot of time.''
Of course, the formation design Rinne created was very complex and almost impossible to create manually by hand. This was because this formation used the concept of micro sculpting, which could literally compress a large-scale formation into a compact size, making it much smaller.
In modern times, it''s like comparing a bulky old hard drive to a micro SSD¡ªwhich compresses large amounts of data into a compact, efficient design.
However, Rinne knew that the process of projecting the formation design from her mind would be no simple task. Transferring the complex series of intricate lines and runes from her mental blueprint into the physical world would strain her focus. It wasn¡¯t a task she could complete lightly; it would require a steady mind and plenty of spiritual energy to endure the mental toll.
The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
''It''s done for now, best to rest before attempting this.''
Satisfied for the moment, Rinne sheathed her knife, mentally preparing for the work ahead.
She would rest for the night, ensuring her mind was clear and her energy restored before attempting such an endeavor. There was no need to rush. Tomorrow, with a refreshed spirit, she would begin the delicate work of imprinting the formation.
???
The next morning, Rinne awoke as the first light of dawn seeped through the window.
She blinked a few times, feeling refreshed after a night of rest. Though the familiar dull ache of her unstable spiritual root still lingered, she had adjusted to the pain¡ªit was no longer a hindrance, just a constant reminder of her condition. Sitting up, she stretched her arms, feeling her muscles loosen, then swung her legs over the side of the bed.
Sunlight streamed through the frosted window of her modest house, illuminating the room with a soft glow. Today was supposed to be the day of the new disciple orientation, but Rinne had no intention of attending.
The orientation merely introduced sect rules and basic cultivation techniques¡ªthings she already knew. The basic cultivation class was particularly irrelevant to her; it only taught new disciples how to introduce spiritual energy into their bodies and officially enter the 1st Spirit Gathering stage. Rinne had already achieved this the moment her meridians were transformed.
¡°Nothing useful there. Wasting time.¡±
Instead of wasting her day, Rinne decided to continue with her own tasks.
She took out a Spirit Gathering Pill and placed it in the center of her Energy Extraction Formation¡ªor the former Evil Blood Sacrifice Formation due to its infamous history. But in Rinne¡¯s case, there would be no blood spilled today.
With a subtle gesture, she activated the formation.
Immediately, a transparent white glow enveloped the pill, far different from the deep crimson glow that often accompanied this formation. The lack of vitality or resentment meant that the energies extracted from the pill were pure. Human vitality, stored mostly in blood, was absent, which explained why there was no blood-red glow.
Though the energy extracted from the pill was modest, it was sufficient to activate the next formation that overlapped with it¡ªher Spirit Gathering Formation, which would sustain the operation. After stabilizing everything, Rinne took a deep breath and braced herself for what came next.
"Let''s do this."
Rinne¡¯s favorite formation, the Array Automatic Creation Formation, came into action.
It scanned the image of the intricate formation she had stored in her mind and began to project the corresponding lines onto the floor, walls, and ceiling of the room. Almost instantly, a sharp pain shot through her skull, as though a migraine had gripped her entire mind.
"Ugh¡"
Rinne winced, enduring the discomfort.
Unlike typical formation lines packed with visible runes, this one manifested as a series of compact 5cm straight lines. Yet upon closer inspection, these lines were densely packed with microscopic runes, compressed so tightly that they appeared almost seamless. Such precision was beyond manual carving¡ªonly a sophisticated formation could etch these designs.
The process was mentally exhausting, taking four hours to complete. As Rinne bore the headache, she watched the lines spread throughout the floor, walls, and ceiling of her home, seeping into the structure. When the final line settled into place, the formation activated.
Suddenly, the entire room distorted, as though the very fabric of space rippled outward from the formation. Rinne instinctively shut her eyes as the shift took place, the strange sensation disorienting her senses for a brief moment. When she reopened them, the once modest and cramped space seemed to stretch outward. Her small house appeared significantly larger, the walls receding far beyond their original positions.
She blinked, examining her surroundings.
"Did it succeed¡?"
Of course, the room itself hadn¡¯t actually grown in size. Instead, the objects within the formation that weren¡¯t imprinted by its lines had shrunk, creating the illusion that the space was far more expansive. The effect wasn¡¯t permanent¡ªit only worked within the house.
If any object left the building, its size would revert to normal.
"This will do¡ for now."
Real spatial-changing formations required rare materials like void stones, which contained spatial energy¡ªmaterials far beyond Rinne¡¯s current reach. Still, this illusion served its purpose.
To make things even smoother, Rinne also added an illusion function, a derivative of Phantasmal Mirage Formation, designed to mask the transition of size. Anyone standing outside the house would still see the people inside as their normal size, while those within could see the outside world without distortion.
But that wasn¡¯t the main feature of this function.
The interior of the house, which was originally simple, has now transformed into a luxurious estate with modern aesthetics.
Marble walls adorned with intricate carvings replaced the plain stone. The floor turned flat and glossy, as if coated in epoxy, softly reflecting her image, while plush fur carpets spread across the ground. The ceiling seemed to stretch higher, decorated with colorful glasswork that cast a subtle glow over the room.
The moment the Illusion Formation activated, the transformation of the room was far more than just visual.
The illusion extended its reach to all five senses, enveloping Rinne in a fabricated reality that felt as tangible as the real world. As she moved through the room, the smooth marble walls felt cool beneath her fingertips, even though they were only the rough stone walls beneath the illusion. The fur carpet underfoot had a plush, luxurious softness, a stark contrast to the plain flooring hidden beneath.
The high ceiling and intricate glass decorations sparkled with elegance, casting fragmented lights across the room. Rinne couldn''t help but marvel at how real it all seemed, even though she knew, logically, none of it existed. The scent of fresh, crisp air, tinged with a faint floral note, filled the room as if a gentle breeze carried it from a distant meadow. This, too, was part of the illusion, masking the actual smell of dust that lingered in the real space.
However, not everything was perfect. The original furniture, not imprinted by the formation, had also shrunk and stood out awkwardly against the grand illusion. Still, that was a minor issue.
Satisfied, Rinne retrieved her stone cauldron and stove from her spatial bag, placing them near the fireplace, which had also grown in size. The Array Automatic Creation Formation had created an area that would provide a fireless, concentrated heat¡ªperfect for her pill refining.
A smile tugged at her lips.
"With this, Atelier Rinne is officially open! Just kidding."
It was a joke, but the pride she felt in her work was no less real. Now, her home was not only secure, but it also provided the perfect environment for her alchemical pursuits.
Chapter 019 - Dilemma
With the problem of the house solved, Rinne suddenly started to feel a bit hungry. It seemed the effects of the fasting pill she had consumed before the second trial were about to wear off.
The timing was perfect, though¡ªshe now had the right conditions to practice alchemy.
"Okay then, I should refine some fasting pills."
Normally, the sect¡¯s cafeteria would provide daily portions of free meals to all disciples. The food was simple and modest¡ªnot particularly delicious, but sufficient to stave off hunger. Of course, for anyone wanting a more luxurious dining experience, they would have to pay extra. Right now, the new disciples were likely having their lunch after a few hours of introductory classes.
But Rinne had no desire to join them.
The thought of sitting among them, engaging in meaningless conversations and small talk, made her sigh in irritation. She simply wasn¡¯t in the mood for socializing, especially not with strangers.
''I¡¯ll pass on that, socializing is not my forte.''
Refining fasting pills seemed like a much more productive use of her time. These pills would keep her nourished for days without the need to eat any actual food, allowing her to focus entirely on her tasks without interruption.
Typically, fasting pills were made from spiritual grains, a few kilograms worth of which would be condensed into a handful of pills. These pills could sustain someone for several days, mimicking the effects of consuming multiple meals. However, Rinne knew that spiritual grains weren¡¯t the only option.
''Spiritual grains cannot grow in this place, but that doesn''t matter.''
In fact, any edible substance could be refined into fasting pills.
The concept was similar to extracting glucose¡ªit wasn¡¯t exclusive to sugarcane; any plant could yield it with the right technique. The same principle applied to fasting pills. Whether it was meat, roots, or even common herbs, as long as the ingredients had nutritional value, they could be used to create the pill.
Even feces could be used to create the pill.
The effectiveness might vary depending on the materials used, but with the right process, anything could be made to serve the purpose of nourishment. But Rinne was confident in her alchemy knowledge, especially after the insights she had gained from the memories of numerous alchemists.
For her, substituting ingredients or creating a new recipe wasn¡¯t difficult, it only required different steps and methods.
She gathered the ingredients she had collected from Eldergrove Forest and put them into her stone cauldron¡ªsome leftover rootstalk from a mountain root ginseng, a handful of Mossy Cap Fungus, and a few slices of snail meat. These ingredients, while unconventional, had a nutritional value comparable to the typical recipe for fasting pills.
''I''ll use these leftover ingredients first, before they go bad.''
The ingredients dissolved quickly with the help of Solution B, then Rinne pressed the stir symbol etched onto the side of the cauldron, stood back and watched the process in silence. The cauldron stirred the mixture on its own, evenly distributing the dissolved ingredients.
As the ingredients simmered inside the cauldron, Rinne¡¯s spiritual sense flared to life. Ever since awakening her spiritual root, her perception had sharpened, allowing her to sense things she couldn¡¯t before. Now, as the spiritual power inside the cauldron flowed and interacted with the ingredients, she could detect subtle fluctuations in energy.
Her newfound abilities enabled her to manually adjust the spiritual power within the cauldron with precision. With each stir and adjustment, the pill refinement process became smoother. She fine-tuned the energy flow, ensuring that the ingredients dissolved perfectly and merged into the pill base.
If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.
In a few hours, the mixture condensed and solidified into ten gleaming pills. Rinne picked one up and examined it.
The pills were of top grade, far superior to the typical fasting pills distributed by the sect. Only, the color was a bit wrong, instead of the usual white color, the pills had a somewhat murky appearance, but it was not a major issue.
"This should last me for quite a while."
Satisfied with her work, she popped one of the pills into her mouth and stored the rest in a bamboo bottle. The hunger that had gnawed at her moments before quickly faded, replaced by the sensation of fullness.
???
With her hunger satisfied, Rinne sat cross-legged, her gaze steady as she pondered her next steps.
"Well then, what should I do next..."
The problem of her stomach was resolved, but now came the more critical matters. Her body was still riddled with harmful substances¡ªthe aftermath of the Verdant Meridian Pill she had consumed before. This required urgent attention.
Her personal tasks stacked themselves neatly in her mind:
-
- Purging the harmful substances caused by the Verdant Meridian Pill.
- Preparing the medicinal bath to enhance the purity of her newly awakened spiritual root.
- Practice body tempering to prepare for the sect¡¯s annual assessment in a year.
Clearing the toxins from the Verdant Meridian Pill would require the Marrow Cleansing Pill, an essential step for both detoxification and establishing a stronger foundation.
''I need to start preparing the ingredients for Marrow Cleansing Pill...''
Some of the necessary ingredients could be collected from the wilderness surrounding the Frostfire Sect, but a few rare materials required contribution points.
These points were needed to access sect-cultivated herbs, rare minerals, or the waters of the Glacial Spirit Lake, which lay deep within the inner sect¡¯s territory¡ªout of reach for an outer disciple like her.
''Those ingredients I can''t get... Well, I can simply exchange them.''
Rinne had already devised a plan during the boat trip to refine as many Fasting Pills and Spirit Gathering Pills as possible using the materials she had collected, intending to trade them for contribution points. These 1st-grade pills were simple to produce and could be crafted by any apprentice alchemist. Selling or exchanging them was unlikely to raise any suspicion.
While it might seem odd for a 7-year-old child at the 1st-level of Spirit Gathering stage to possess the skill to perform alchemy, Rinne could easily brush off inquiries by attributing the pills to her mysterious father. That explanation was usually enough to stop most people from asking further questions.
However, the more she thought it over, the more she realized it wouldn''t work.
''No, this is still too slow.''
The reason was simple.
The three tasks were essentially having something in common, which was involving the exchange of resources through contribution points. When combined, they accumulated, and the profits from trading Fasting Pills and Spirit Gathering Pills were insufficient.
In addition to the ingredients of the Marrow Cleansing Pill, Rinne also needed another set of specific ingredients for her medicinal bath. Some of them originated from Middle Realm, which was far from her reach. But using Roran¡¯s memories as a foundation, she had deduced the closest available substitutes that theoretically produces similar results.
These substitute ingredients were available within the Frostfire Sect, but of course they were expensive.
Additionally, if she wanted to practice body tempering, she also needed to supply substantial nourishment for it to be effective. This type of nutrition could only be derived from food and medicine made from rare ingredients, most of which were accessible only through perilous missions or from the limited supplies of the inner sect.
Simply selling first-grade pills would not provide the points she needed in a reasonable amount of time. Gathering the required contribution points could take years, far longer than she was willing to wait.
''The medicated bath only works until I''m 10 years old, and that''s less than 3 years.''
Meanwhile, refining higher-grade pills¡ªhas its own risks.
While selling 1st grade pills was not a problem, things would not be so simple for 2nd-grade pills or higher. Pills of that caliber required a certain level of expertise, and alchemists capable of refining them were officially recognized as second-grade alchemists, valuable individuals whom others actively sought to befriend or establish connections with.
If Rinne produced such pills, it would certainly draw attention, and the sect elders or other curious individuals would undoubtedly want to know the identity of the refiner. She couldn¡¯t just invent a random name as people might investigate further, and any inconsistency would arouse suspicion.
This could jeopardize her position as an inconspicuous disciple.
"Such a dilemma. This requires a more careful approach."
Rinne exhaled slowly and shook her head, postponing the thought.
She closed her eyes and delved into her Soul Library, accessing the collection of knowledge she had stored. This time, she tried to find a solution to the problem from a different aspect.
Chapter 020 - Pain and Resilience
Whenever Rinne needed to think deeply, she instinctively retreated into her Soul Library.
Inside, time seemed endless, though only a few minutes passed outside¡ªjust enough for a quick nap. Of course, the inevitable headache would follow, but that was a minor trade-off. Here, she could calmly search for a solution.
"How do I get the materials I need without drawing attention?"
Of course, robbing others for resources had crossed her mind briefly, but she dismissed the thought immediately. This was her new life, and she wanted nothing to do with the darkness of her past.
As she sifted through the library¡¯s memories and knowledge, the Hibiscus Body Tempering Art resurfaced. The technique came from the Jade Pleasure Sect, known for its focus on dual cultivation. It wasn¡¯t a popular method¡ªit didn¡¯t boost cultivation speed or offer great strength. Instead, it enhanced beauty and preserved youth, especially if practiced before the body fully matured at sixteen.
More importantly, it required no expensive resources. The technique used spiritual energy to nourish the body and gradually expel impurities. While not as effective as a Marrow Cleansing Pill, it could reduce the need for one.
Rinne smiled.
"This is perfect! I won¡¯t need the Marrow Cleansing Pill anymore, and I¡¯ll need fewer materials."
This technique wasn¡¯t a true body tempering art but more of a supplement to dual cultivation. Still, Rinne didn¡¯t mind using it for her needs. With her Energy Extraction Formation, the Hibiscus Body Tempering Art fit her situation well¡ªit allowed her to draw energies from materials rich in energy and convert it into spiritual energy for practice.
But there was a problem.
"This won¡¯t be enough to protect me."
Relying only on this technique would give her beauty and fitness but leave her powerless. Without real strength, she¡¯d just be a fragile decoration, forced to depend on others for survival.
That would be unacceptable.
"Then, I¡¯ll just create a better version!"
Determined to make it stronger, Rinne started piecing together a new body tempering art. She scoured the Soul Library, reviewing techniques from various sects and clans. Each method had its benefits but also drawbacks¡ªsome caused permanent damage, while others deformed the body over time.
This was considered normal in the cultivation world.
Body tempering was never without risks. Cultivators who altered their bodies through these methods often paid unintended consequences. Side effects usually emerged after prolonged practice, whether in appearance, mobility, or health.
That was why, it was essential to understand the human body to create a new technique, and fortunately, Rinne¡¯s knowledge was more than enough.
This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.
She carefully extracted the best parts of each method, discarding unnecessary or harmful elements. The Hibiscus Body Tempering Art¡¯s focus on spiritual energy nourishment served as the base, but she went further, adding components to temper the muscles, bones, and internal organs¡ªbalancing both beauty and strength.
"This should work, in theory,"
The improved version does not mean it has become the best body tempering art.
This technique was still not as strong as other techniques, but it was safer and fewer risk to practice, as the burden on the body not as heavy as that of other techniques, which could potentially cause permanent side effects.
"For the name... let¡¯s call it Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art."
With the technique finalized, Rinne shifted her thoughts to Roran¡¯s medicinal bath.
Even after scouring the Soul Library, she found no method to temper spiritual roots directly. If such a method existed, she would have discarded the need for the bath entirely. But since there was no alternative, the bath remained essential for now.
???
Rinne opened her eyes to the familiar throb of a dull headache.
It was uncomfortable as always, but she had grown used to it. She exhaled slowly, allowing herself a brief of rest, waiting for the pain to ease before getting back to work.
Once the headache subsided, she sat cross-legged and straightened her posture, ready to practice the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art. As she channeled her spiritual energy, sharp pain shot through her spiritual root¡ªthe core of her cultivation.
Cultivators relied on their spiritual roots to control and harness the flow of spiritual energy, but Rinne¡¯s spiritual root was still unstable and sensitive. Somehow, in her eagerness to push forward, she had forgotten this crucial fact.
It felt like pressing a raw wound or trying to grasp fire with bare skin. Every attempt to circulate energy only deepened the pain. She clenched her jaw, forcing herself to stop before the agony became overwhelming.
Frustration simmered beneath the surface. No matter how much preparation she made, her body stubbornly reminded her of its limits. She closed her eyes again, sinking into contemplation.
¡®In the end... I¡¯m just walking in circles.¡¯
This thought gnawed at her.
For the sake of remaining inconspicuous, she had taken numerous detours, avoiding paths that might attract attention. Yet, every step forward seemed to come with another kind of pain¡ªwhether it was in body or mind.
Was this suffering truly worth it?
The question lingered as doubt began to creep into her heart. For all the sacrifices she made to stay hidden, was she truly free of the burdens of her past? Or was she merely trading one struggle for another?
But the doubt only lasted briefly.
Pain? She was already familiar with it. Compared to the torment of the Gu backlash in her previous life, this was nothing but a minor inconvenience.
Rinne closed her eyes and controlled her breath. With practiced ease, she slipped into self-hypnosis for the second time, forcing the pain to vanish as if it had never existed. The sensation melted away into nothingness.
"As long as it doesn¡¯t kill me, I can keep going!"
As for the question of whether it was worth it or not? Of course, it wasn¡¯t worth it.
She could have showcased her talent, earned admiration, and maybe even secured a spot as an inner or core disciple. She could have basked in the privileges that accompanied such a position, enjoying the respect and admiration of her peers. The elders probably wouldn¡¯t have minded her little secret, especially since she was surrounded by the praises of her achievements.
She knew very well that doing otherwise was a foolish decision. But despite knowing all this, she still chose the harder path.
With a quiet sigh, Rinne acknowledged her own contradiction.
She understood, perhaps better than anyone, that while she possessed the courage to endure pain, she lacked the courage to interact with others. This peculiar contrast left her feeling increasingly alone on her path, caught between her pursuit of strength and her fear of forming bonds.
Chapter 021 – Pill Inscription
Rinne¡¯s self-loathing mood didn¡¯t last long.
She knew better than to waste time on useless thoughts. Doing something productive was always the better option. The pain in her spiritual root had been pushed back through self-hypnotism, but that didn¡¯t change the fact that it was unstable and unusable for now.
Still, there was no reason for her to stop practicing the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art.
"Well then, what should I do..."
Her mind wandered back to her second life, when she became a Gu cultivator.
At that time, she had shared her perception with her Gu, including her spiritual sense, using it to practice. After killing the Gu, however, her spiritual sense also wiped out altogether. She could no longer sense spiritual energy, but that didn¡¯t mean it was gone. The energy was still there, flowing through the meridians. It was just a matter of her being unable to sense it.
Her answer at the time was to use formations and runes.
She had drawn lines and runes all over her body to control the movement of spiritual energy once it entered her. This allowed the energy to follow the proper cycle, just as if she could sense it. Her inspiration had come from a journal describing ancient tribal warriors who covered their bodies with tattoos of lines and symbols. She realized those tattoos were a primitive form of formation work.
After a bit of experimentation, she had found unexpected success. The problem was that the energy was unfiltered, and practicing like that brought incredible discomfort. The difference was like drinking mineral water compared to sewage.
This time, she wasn¡¯t about to put herself through that again.
Tattooing her body wasn¡¯t just painful, it was also unsightly. Instead of inscribing the runes on herself, she considered inscribing them into a pill, something like a Spirit Gathering Pill. If the pill could carry the runes, it could act as a guide, automatically controlling the flow of energy through her meridians to complete the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art.
¡°It¡¯s quite troublesome, but I have no choice,¡±
Of course, the idea was unheard of.
No cultivator would think to inscribe a formation on something as small and fragile as a pill. It was next to impossible to do by hand. Besides, a pill was consumable, so any inscribed formation would vanish once the pill was used.
This was where the Array Automatic Creation Formation came in. By using this, Rinne didn''t have to bother inscribing the runes into each pill manually. She only had to print them into each pill with high precision.
Rinne immediately pushed her thoughts aside and started refining a batch of Spirit Gathering Pills. As usual, she didn¡¯t bother following any of the conventional recipes. Instead, she worked with the materials she had on hand, trusting her instincts and experience. While the composition differed from the traditional formula, the resulting effects were nearly identical.
The refinement process took close to an hour, and by the end of it, ten top-grade pills sat in her palm, their surfaces smooth and gleaming.
Satisfied with the results, Rinne shifted her focus to the next phase: designing the inscription. She delved into her Soul Library once more, and began sketching the blueprint in her mind.
¡°Rather than a formation, it¡¯s closer to a talisman inscription,¡±
The difference between formations and talismans wasn¡¯t significant. Both relied on runes fueled by spiritual energy, but their applications varied. Formations were large-scale and long-lasting, usually engraved on solid surfaces that could withstand the energy flow for extended periods. Talismans, on the other hand, were small and consumable, typically painted on paper, disintegrating after use.
The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
¡°But since it¡¯s a pill, it should be called a pill inscription.¡±
It seemed that the concept of pill inscription was never proposed by anyone in this world. Even though this concept appeared in some Xianxia novels that she read in her first life.
Maybe if there was a chance, she could write a thesis book to submit to the Alchemy Association. The rewards she could get would perhaps be hefty enough to support her until Core Formation stage. But it didn''t take too long for her to dismiss the thought.
Rinne shook her head in denial.
"Forget it, that''s too troublesome."
She didn''t even have the courage to interact with others, let alone perform in front of a crowd.
Designing the pill inscription proved to be a meticulous task. It had to fit the small surface of a pill while functioning as intended. The main goal was to guide spiritual energy at a certain rate into specific areas within the body, ensuring the energy was processed in precise ways upon consumption.
Although she could have designed the inscription to direct energy straight into the dantian, which would normally accelerate cultivation, that option was off the table. Her dantian was in a delicate state, occupied by her unstable spiritual root, and exposing it to spiritual energy would only invite trouble. For now, she had to avoid that area entirely.
Time slipped by unnoticed as she immersed herself in the task, but eventually, she completed the design. The inscription was complex, but every line and curve served its purpose.
¡°Okay then, it¡¯s time for the real test,¡±
Her consciousness pulled away from the Soul Library, and she returned to the real world with a sharp, familiar headache.
???
Ignoring the pain in her head, Rinne made her way to the core of the house formation.
Upon arrival, she activated the Array Automatic Creation Formation, allowing it to scan her mind and project the inscription design with precision. The projection was compact, much smaller than when she originally crafted it.
At first glance, it appeared as a thin, transparent bluish ring, with the runes so densely packed that they looked almost like a smooth, flat surface. The ring¡¯s diameter matched the exact size of the Spirit Gathering Pill resting in her hand. Without hesitation, Rinne inserted the pill into the ring. The imprinting process began immediately, finishing in less than ten seconds.
"This looks good..."
She carefully inspected the now-inscribed pill in her hand. The subtle glow of spiritual energy within the ring confirmed that the pill inscription was functioning as intended.
Rinne sat down cross-legged, popped the pill into her mouth, and waited for the effects to kick in.
As the pill dissolved, spiritual energy flowed smoothly through her meridians, spreading warmth throughout her body. There was no need for her to manually guide the flow, everything proceeded automatically just as she had designed. She allowed herself to relax, savoring the soothing sensation.
The energy from the top-grade Spirit Gathering Pill was well-refined, much purer than the coarse spiritual energy that felt like sewage water she remembered from her second life.
After a few cycles, the energy coursing through her meridians dispersed, nourishing her body in line with the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art. Seeing the progress, Rinne took out a second pill and repeated the process. As the energy flowed once more, she began to feel bloated.
There was a natural limit to how much spiritual energy the body could absorb in one session, influenced by factors such as age, physical state, and cultivation stage. At seven years old, two pills were her current threshold. Pushing beyond that would only be harmful to her body.
Once the second pill¡¯s energy finished its cycles, Rinne noticed a subtle improvement. The stagnation in her meridians had loosened slightly, and she felt an unpleasant dampness on her skin. A thin layer of black mud, carrying an indescribable stench, seeped from her pores.
¡°So, this is the poison inside me? It really stinks.¡±
The result confirmed that her newly crafted technique could expel toxins from her body. With more practice, the accumulated poison would continue to clear, reducing the need for the Marrow Cleansing Pill. She found this promising, though it would take time and repeated effort to cleanse her system entirely.
Once her spiritual root stabilized, she would modify the pill inscription to guide the end goal of the spiritual energy to her dantian. That way, instead of the energy dissipating from her pores, it would be stored to enhance her cultivation base.
For now, Rinne was satisfied with her progress.
The only regret was that her digestive ability wasn¡¯t high enough to absorb more than two pills at a time. Worse still, she needed to wait a few days before her body could fully digest the energy and resume practice.
¡°There are techniques to improve digestion, but I¡¯ll hold off on those until I have a stable income.¡±
With nothing else to do for the time being, Rinne shifted her focus back to alchemy. She began processing the remaining materials she had, intent on refining them into something useful.
Chapter 022 - Inner Demon
Other''s POV:
A few days later, in another part of the Frostfire Sect.
A large classroom bustled with children standing silently, maintaining careful distances from one another. They wore the plain training clothes distributed by the sect, marking them as newly recruited disciples.
The children ranged in age from seven to eighteen, divided across six classrooms, each with roughly fifty students. In this particular room, the atmosphere was heavy with silence, broken only by the occasional shuffle of feet.
At the front of the room stood a stocky, middle-aged man named Namhil, the instructor for this group. As a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage, it was his responsibility to guide these children through their earliest steps in the world of cultivation.
¡°When the sun rises, life awakens. Morning is the best time to absorb natural energy and strengthen your body. Same rules as always! Legs apart¡ªshoulder-width! Knees slightly bent, hands pressed down at your waist. Assume the Spirit Building Stance!¡±
Namhil barked, his voice echoed through the hall, carrying a weight of discipline. He paced back and forth, observing the children¡¯s movements with a sharp eye. His stern gaze swept over the class as he addressed them.
¡°Focus your mind. Stay calm. Breathe naturally. Remember what you learned in the theory class!¡±
The students immediately shuffled into position, doing their best to replicate the stance.
The Spirit Building Stance was deceptively simple, yet highly effective, perfected over generations of Frostfire cultivators to train the body and prepare it for the rigors of cultivation.
In an ideal situation, the stance would be practiced outdoors, where students could directly absorb the natural energy in the environment. However, the harsh climate of the Frostfire Sect made that impossible for beginners¡ªtheir bodies weren¡¯t ready to withstand the cold for long. Until they reached a higher level of cultivation, they had to train indoors.
As Namhil walked through the rows, he observed the children with a critical eye. The older teens in the back row were calm, their stances steady and breath controlled¡ªevidence of at least some proficiency. They seemed to have understood the basics.
But among the younger ones, it was a different story. Some stood awkwardly, their knees wobbling, waists twisted at odd angles. Their muscles were relaxed when they should be taut, making it clear that they lacked strength and discipline. It was easy to tell which students had potential¡ªand which ones didn¡¯t.
Namhil paused mid-step, letting out a small sigh in his mind.
¡®These kids are still too young. Their minds are tender, and their bodies weak. It¡¯s too early to expect too much from them.¡¯
It was no surprise that most of these children didn¡¯t exhibit high talent. Those who did would have already caught the attention of the sect elders and been recruited directly into the inner disciple ranks. Namhil knew the children before him were likely the less promising candidates.
Still, it wasn¡¯t entirely hopeless.
''It''s good to get them moving early,''
Namhil thought, adjusting his expectations.
In the harsh world of cultivation, survival often depended less on talent and more on effort and perseverance. Beyond the safety of the sect¡¯s walls, countless dangers lurked¡ªmonsters roamed the wilderness, and even nature itself could be unforgiving.
On top of that, the endless competition among cultivators for resources made life precarious.
¡®At the very least, if they could reach Foundation stage, they might live long enough to see the battlefield... and survive it.¡¯
He believed that talent wasn¡¯t everything. Hard work could often bridge the gap where natural aptitude failed. With discipline and training, even an ordinary child could achieve something meaningful. The upcoming annual assessment would be a chance for these children to show their growth¡ªif they applied themselves.
Namhil straightened his back, hands clasped behind him, and called out,
¡°All of you, stand firm! Hold your stance!¡±
He strode through the class, stopping now and then to correct their postures. When he found a child¡¯s legs too loose, he tapped their knees with the blunt end of a wooden rod. "Bend it more. Don¡¯t slouch."
He adjusted another¡¯s hands. ¡°Press your palms to your waist¡ªdon¡¯t let them float. Feel the tension.¡±
For each correction, his tone was patient but firm. With every mistake fixed, the class gradually began to stabilize. After some time, Namhil stepped back and surveyed the room. Satisfied, he gave a brief nod.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
¡°That¡¯s enough for today. From now on, I want you to practice this stance every morning and every evening. No excuses.¡±
As soon as Namhil left the room, the rigid atmosphere dissolved, and the disciples slumped out of their stances, groaning and stretching their sore muscles.
A few of the younger children rubbed their knees and waists where the instructor had tapped them with his rod, wincing dramatically. One boy muttered, his face scrunched with annoyance as he massaged his leg.
"Ugh, does he have to hit so hard? It hurts very much..."
A handful of others murmured in agreement, their complaints spilling out as they shuffled toward the door in small groups. Despite the sour moods, the children slowly filtered out of the classroom, their voices growing softer as they disappeared down the corridors, already dreading the next morning''s training.
One of the disciples, was Kael.
As the remaining disciples gradually left the classroom, Kael stood still, lost in thought. He scanned the faces passing by, hoping for a glimpse of that familiar figure¡ªjust one sign that Rin was somewhere in this sea of new recruits. But once again, there was nothing.
"Rin¡¯s not here today either..."
Ever since he¡¯d disembarked from the boat of the Frostfire Sect, Kael had searched for Rin at every opportunity, but without success. Whenever he asked his newly made friends, they only shook their heads, puzzled.
None of them had ever heard of anyone named Rin.
A few of the more well-connected disciples had even used their influence to search the records, but no trace of Rin could be found. It was as if Rin had vanished into thin air.
"Where did you go, Rin...?"
Kael clenched his fists, frustration gnawing at him.
He had thought they might reunite here at the sect, but every day without a sign of his friend only deepened the mystery. Despite his efforts, Rin remained elusive¡ªa ghost lost somewhere within the vastness of the Frostfire Sect.
"Still searching for that mysterious friend of yours?"
Kael turned to find Arven strolling over, a teasing grin on his face. Arven, the son of the 8th branch of the Tylan Clan, had become Kael¡¯s closest friend in the sect. Their shared background in talisman crafting created a bond that formed quickly, one forged over late-night conversations and mutual grumbles about sect training.
Kael let out a frustrated sigh.
"Yeah, as usual."
Arven gave him a playful shake of the head.
"Are you sure this Rin of yours even exists? Maybe he¡¯s just your imaginary friend."
Kael''s eyes narrowed, but he couldn¡¯t fully blame Arven for being skeptical.
The story he told¡ªof a beggar-turned-hidden-scion, someone so remarkable yet utterly unnoticed¡ªsounded far-fetched, even to himself at times. And Arven had done his part to help search for Rin, going as far as consulting his clan¡¯s connections to check the Frostfire Sect''s registration records. But no one named Rin had enrolled.
There were multiple explanations for this situation. One possibility was that Rin had not yet registered his name, similar to children from impoverished backgrounds who had not yet connected with spiritual energy. As a result, they were unable to activate the sect token, which was necessary for registering their names as disciples.
However, that doesn''t seem logical. If Rin truly came from a powerful family, he would have likely received a fundamental education in cultivation prior to attending the recruitment ceremony.
The second possibility was that Rin does not exist. No one aware of Rin''s presence except for Kael, and this Rin may simply be a figment of his imagination.
Kael¡¯s patience frayed under the weight of doubt.
"That''s not true! I know Rin exists!"
He snapped, his voice sharp and raw with frustration.
Rin, in Kael''s memory, appeared mysteriously detached, possessing eyes filled with wisdom that contrasted sharply with his small stature. There was something inexplicable that captivated Kael''s attention towards Rin.
However, after being separated with Rin and finding no leads in his search, and upon hearing Arven''s words, Kael couldn''t help but begin to doubt himself and question Rin''s existence.
The outburst startled a few lingering disciples, who turned to stare at him in surprise. Arven raised his hands in mock surrender.
"Whoa, easy! I didn¡¯t mean to push you that hard... There¡¯s still one more possibility. If Rin does exist, maybe he didn¡¯t come in as an outer disciple. Maybe some elder saw his talent and brought him in as an inner disciple or a personal disciple. That would explain why he¡¯s not on the outer disciple list."
He tried to calm Kael down, speaking carefully.
Fortunately his efforts paid off, Kael¡¯s expression shifted, brightening at the thought.
"That¡¯s it! Rin¡¯s so powerful¡ªof course he¡¯d catch the attention of an elder. He must¡¯ve been made an inner disciple!"
A surge of determination welled up within Kael, replacing the earlier frustration.
If Rin was already an inner disciple, then Kael knew what he had to do. All he needed was to get promoted during the annual assessment. It might be quite challenging due to the limited resources available to an outer disciple. However, he was fortunate to be a member of the Verin clan. As it happened, he had bought a basic talisman introduction book from his clan.
The issue of getting promoted to an inner disciple didn''t seem too hard. Currently, he had sufficient resources, and if he were to run low, he could have learned to draw talismans and sell them to support himself.
Watching the renewed fire in Kael¡¯s eyes, Arven let out a weary sigh. Kael¡¯s obsession with Rin was deeper than he had realized. Even with the most optimistic assumption¡ªthat Rin had become an inner disciple¡ªsomething still didn¡¯t sit right with Arven.
Even if the third assumption were accurate, then as Kael''s close friend, there would be no reason for Rin not to have come to see Kael or to have left any messages.
Arven exhaled slowly, a flicker of unease tightening his chest.
"Is this what they call an inner demon?"
Arven often heard about inner demons. It was said that a cultivator with obsessions could give rise to inner demons that could obstruct their practice or, even worse, drive them to madness.
The notion that this Rin had been Kael''s closest friend was likely true. However, it was possible that Rin had perished for some reason, and Kael couldn''t come to terms with that reality, leading to his obsession.
Reflecting on this, Arven could only feel sympathy.
Chapter 023 – Selling the Pills
Rinne''s POV:
It had been a week since Rinne began practicing the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art.
In that time, she had managed to process most of her gathered materials, creating several unnamed solutions and crafting over 250 Spirit Gathering Pills and around 200 Fasting Pills.
Every batch had a 100% success rate, something that could cause a stir if any alchemist knew.
About 10% of her pills turned out to be superior-grade, 70% were top-grade, and the rest were still high-quality middle-grade. She stored them in wooden boxes she¡¯d crafted back during the third trial of the recruitment ceremony. However, lacking proper pill containers, she had to reuse the boxes for now.
For the various unnamed solutions, she used something unexpected as storage: virtual vials, made entirely of air within her atelier.
The space of her atelier basically operated inside a formation with remarkable customization abilities. Not only could she shrink objects within it to make more room, but she could also adjust gravity, making walls, ceilings, and even the air itself step-able, as if they were solid ground.
With a better level of control and aided by the illusion function, it was even possible to create illusory but touchable fake objects out of thin air, then treat them as real objects. These objects couldn¡¯t be taken outside the atelier¡ªthey¡¯d vanish upon exiting¡ªbut it saved her the trouble of buying furniture and tools for personal use.
Maintaining this complex space required a steady flow of spiritual energy, but the Spiritual Gathering Formation in place took care of that, keeping the space active.
And then, move to another matter.
Rinne glanced at her reflection in the mirror.
Her complexion had improved, shedding the malnourished look that once made her resemble a beggar. The Fasting Pills provided enough nutrition, and over the past week, her hair had grown from neck-length to just past her shoulders.
It seemed that the wood-attribute spiritual root she recently gained, though unstable, granted her a small boost in vitality and regenerative power. Those with wood-attribute roots were known for their long life and vitality, so this growth wasn¡¯t entirely surprising.
"Nice, it turns out I''m quite good looking... I should grow my hair long,"
Rinne was satisfied with her appearance.
At this moment, she has fully transformed into an adorable girl, with some reminiscent of her first life. Even her own voice became smoother and pleasing to hear. While her figure remains flat both in the front and back, no one would mistake her for a boy anymore.
With the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art, she would definitely grow into a beauty. This was good, because no one could resist the temptation of being beautiful. Even though she had no intention of socializing, there was no harm in making herself beautiful for her own enjoyment.
¡°Well then, it¡¯s time to sell those pills.¡±
After admiring her progress in the mirror, Rinne gathered her things, ready to step out.
???
Rinne cautiously traversed the outdoor area within the Frostfire Sect.
To conceal her hair, she pulled the hood of her sect robe over her head. And to obscure her face, she wore a skull mask crafted from the corpse of the red-horned wolf, the spiritual beast she had picked up from the battlefield during the third trial. The robe was fully infused with spiritual energy, enabling its heat-adjustment feature to last an entire day.
Although she was aware that her appearance was rather striking, she had no choice in the matter.
She didn¡¯t like standing out but she also felt uneasy about revealing her face. This was understandable, as it was a common issue faced by introverts, especially from a former evil cultivator who was once terrorized being hunted down by the entire cultivation world.
"Too bad, I don''t have the cultivation to turn invisible like before."
If only her cultivation had reached at least the 3rd level of the Spirit Gathering Stage, she could have utilized one of the 1st-level techniques from the Phantasmal Mirage Art to reduce her presence. Furthermore, upon reaching the 6th level of the Spirit Gathering Stage, she would have been able to employ the 3rd level of this technique to render herself invisible, or even alter her appearance.
Unfortunately, these techniques were currently just unusable knowledge. Before Rinne could consider using them, she had to wait until her spiritual roots were stable to cultivate first.
But fortunately, the Frostfire Sect¡¯s cold climate worked in her favor.
Most disciples avoided the open air, preferring to stay inside buildings or use the connecting corridors to avoid the chill. Activating the heat function of the sect robe consumed spiritual energy, which most disciples preferred to save for cultivation rather than warmth. This was also one of the reasons Rinne had chosen this sect, she could keep a low profile here with fewer people outside.
"I hope no one sees me."
Of course, there were occasionally some people seen outside the building. They are disciples who are practicing certain techniques. Some are practicing swinging swords, some are practicing body movements, some are meditating on a large rock, and so on. Judging from their cultivation level, they were around the 4th-6th level of Spirit Gathering Stage.
Stolen novel; please report.
Those people were no problem to her. They were so focused on their training that they didn''t pay much attention to their surroundings. Rinne just walked away and left them alone.
''I should not disturb them.''
After a while, she reached the familiar Outer Affair Hall building.
This time, she headed straight there without stopping to collect materials along the way like she had previously. The reason was that her spatial bag was of low grade and had very limited capacity. If she wanted to gather anything, she would have to wait until her business was complete and she was on her way home.
???
Inside the Outer Affair Hall, Rinne''s masked appearance quickly caught the attention of everyone nearby.
Her wolf-skull mask and hooded sect robe made her look out of place, attracting curious glances. Talia Sartin, the teller behind the counter, raised an eyebrow as she looked at Rinne¡¯s small, cloaked figure.
¡°I want to sell some pills,¡±
It was only when Talia heard the child''s voice that she immediately recognized the child.
It was the same child who had shown up right after orientation to register the sect token and rent a house. Though this kid''s voice sounded smoother than before, the familiarity was unmistakable.
"Oh, it¡¯s you? Your sense of style is¡ unique."
Talia said with a slightly amused tone.
Around them, the spectators¡¯ initial curiosity faded, everyone returning to their business. After all, this kind of cautious attitude was not uncommon in the cultivation world. The cultivation world was dangerous and the sight of cultivators robbing each other was not uncommon.
It was just that the choice of using a wolf skull as a mask was quite strange and looked like an evil cultivator. But seeing the stature of the child who did it, they only found it funny, a cute attempt to look intimidating.
¡°Take out the pills you want to sell,¡±
Talia said, getting back to business.
Rinne removed two small wooden boxes from her spatial bag and placed them on the counter. She opened them to reveal rows of pills with varied hues.
¡°Here they are. This box has 50 Spirit Gathering Pills, and this one has 50 Fasting Pills. Please check them.¡±
Talia blinked at the large quantity of pills, eyeing the irregular coloring, which hinted at unconventional ingredients.
What surprised her more was the casual way Rinne had stored them in simple wooden boxes. Pills were normally kept in specialized containers to preserve their potency, but here they were, all together in makeshift boxes like common trinkets.
"Then, excuse me,"
Talia said as she picked up a few samples, taking a quick sniff.
Despite their unusual color, the medicinal effects checked out, top-grade quality, consistent and potent. She returned the pills to their box, curiosity sparking.
¡°I¡¯m curious, who made these pills?¡±
Rinne had expected the question and quickly replied,
¡°My father made them before I left home. They were for my cultivation, but I have a debt now, so I need to sell them.¡±
Hearing Rinne''s answer, Talia just remained silent.
This father again!
¡°Who is your father, anyway?¡±
It was the same question as the last time Rinne visited this hall.
Talia couldn''t help but be curious about who this clueless father was, who treated pills like mud balls, yet had the real skill to produce 100 top-grade pills.
Regarding this, Rinne simply replied politely, using the same line as before.
¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was told not to share personal information with strangers,¡±
Talia had expected this answer.
It was no surprise that alchemists were arrogant and difficult to make friends with. It would be good if she could get one more alchemist connection, but it didn''t matter if she didn''t. Still, befriending the alchemist''s child could also be considered as forming a connection with the alchemist himself.
¡°Alright then, 50 Spirit Gathering Pills and 50 Fasting Pills. Since they¡¯re top-grade, I¡¯ll give you 2 spirit stones each, totaling 200 spirit stones. Does that work for you?¡±
She held out two pouches, each containing 100 spirit stones.
Don''t think that 200 spirit stones are a little. For common expenses, spirit beads were used, where 1 low-quality spirit stone is equal to 100 spirit beads. One low-quality Fasting Pill costs 5 spirit beads and one medium-quality Fasting Pill costs 20 spirit beads.
Rinne thought for a moment.
The price of the pills was as she had expected. She had been worried that the price would go down because of the strange color. However, fortunately her worries were unfounded.
She took the pouches, counting the stones quickly before nodding.
¡°Okay, I¡¯ve received the spirit stones. By the way, I also need some materials. Can you help me get them?¡±
Talia smiled at Rinne''s question.
The Outer Affair Hall functioned as a hub for managing resources gathered in the Frostfire Sect''s outer sect area, while also serving as its venue for resource exchange.
Furthermore, it had an indirect connection to the Immortal Alliance via Inner Affair Hall. Through this connection, Talia could obtain almost anything, provided the item was available and there are sufficient spirit stones to purchase it.
"Of course, as long as there are spirit stones, I can give you anything you want."
Hearing Talia''s answer, Rinne heaved a sigh of relief.
She then handed a paper containing a list of a few names of ingredients.
"Here is all the things I need."
Talia silently read the list and frowned.
The list contained the names of 24 different spiritual plants, 18 of which were easy to obtain as they were specially cultivated in the sect, while the rest were quite troublesome, they could only be grown in the wild due to their difficult growing conditions.
Eternal Primrose, for instance, could only be found deep in the cold waters of Frigid Abyss Lake, requiring a dive through intense cold and crushing pressure. Another was the Infernal Ashroot, which thrived solely in the depths of volcanic lava.
In addition of that, there were various parts of 8 spiritual beasts, including rare ingredients like Crystal Snow Elk blood, Three-horned Salamander brain fluid, and Green-eyed Yeti testicles.
Those spiritual beasts were mostly grade 2 beasts which were equivalent to the Foundation Establishment stage, and there were also grade 3 ones which were equivalent to the Core Formation stage.
¡°Kid, why do you need these things?¡±
Talia asked, suspicion flickering in her eyes.
Rinne tilted her head, feigning innocence. However, her mind quickly went into frenzy, thinking about how to answer. She couldn''t understand why this teller needed to ask when all she had to do was serve customers.
Of course, Rinne couldn''t say that it was all alchemy materials for herself to refine. No one would believe that a child of the 1st level of Spirit Gathering Stage could perform alchemy, especially with such high-level materials.
Fortunately, she could quickly came up with an answer.
¡°It¡¯s for my father¡¯s research. Is there a problem? These materials are within the Frostfire Sect territory, so I assume they¡¯re available?¡±
Talia could only stare for a moment, left speechless by the reply.
Although everything on the list did exist in the Frostfire Sect, some items were extremely difficult to obtain. It was safe to say that some of them required several Core Formation stage cultivators to obtain them.
Chapter 024 - New Cauldron
At the Outer Affair Hall, Rinne listened as Talia went through her list of ingredients.
Out of the 24 spiritual plants she needed, only 18 were currently in stock. Talia explained that the missing ones were rare and very difficult to gather, even in the sect¡¯s territory. It was a similar story with the spiritual beast ingredients: only some grade-1 cores, blood, and meat were available.
Rinne couldn''t help but be disappointed, but at least these ingredients were confirmed to exist.
All she had to do next was raise the funds needed to buy them. For the missing items, she could turn to the Mission Hall and set up tasks for other disciples to gather them later, though she¡¯d need to prepare suitable rewards for that in the future. But that could wait for later.
Rinne turned her attention to what was available.
As expected, the prices were quite expensive, even with her 200 spirit stones, she could only afford a few lower-priced items. In addition, she also hesitated, thinking perhaps she had made a mistake. She had told Talia about her supposed debt, so going on a sudden shopping spree might raise questions she didn''t need.
Rinne took a moment to rethink her approach.
"Then, I will buy the seeds of those 18 plants."
Since the ready-made spiritual plants were costly, Rinne decided that seeds would be a more affordable choice.
There were many techniques for promoting plant growth, and one of the most powerful was the Spring Rain Blossom Technique, which created a spiritual rain that sped up growth.
Among her gathered memories was one from a skilled Spiritual Planter named Tharmus Musgrath, who had mastered this technique to perfection, earning him the title of Spiritual Rain Master. With this skill, seeds could mature and be harvested within just two months.
But there was also a more extreme approach, one Rinne only considered as a backup: the Spring Bloom Strain Technique. This frowned-upon method could force plants to grow nearly ten times faster, though at a heavy cost. The quality of the plant¡¯s medicinal properties would diminish, and the plant itself would wither soon after reaching maturity.
However, combining both techniques could yield a rapid yet functional solution.
The Spring Rain Blossom Technique would encourage quick but stable growth, while the Spring Bloom Strain would push it to its limits, making seeds germinate within seconds, mature in ten days, and be ready for harvest by the twelfth. Although Rinne didn¡¯t yet have the cultivation level needed to perform either technique, she knew they could be replicated with formations.
As for the reduced medicinal quality? That didn¡¯t concern her.
Once converted to a solution, quantity could make up for quality.
"I also need a few more items."
Along with the seeds, Rinne included several additional items in her purchase: a bottle of blood from a 1st-grade spiritual beast known as the Snow Rabbit, ten cores from 1st-grade spiritual beasts, and fifty sheets of talisman paper.
Hearing Rinne''s words, Talia checked the list once again, mentally calculating.
"All the seeds cost 20 spirit stones, and these costs 8 spirit stones."
Rinne quickly reached for her pouch and counted out the stones, handing them over. Talia accepted the spirit stones and began packing the items.
As Talia handed over the items, she glanced at the talisman paper and raised an eyebrow.
¡°Do you practice talisman making?¡±
Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.
Rinne nodded, keeping her response simple, ¡°Still learning.¡±
Talia gave a nod, a hint of encouragement in her expression.
¡°Good luck with it. If your talismans are any good, I¡¯ll give you a fair price for them.¡±
Rinne gave a slight smile under her mask.
Buying materials for making talismans was actually just an excuse to tell Talia that Rinne was also into talisman making. So, there was a reason why she could sell the talismans she made later.
¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll be sure to bring them to you when they''re ready.¡±
With the items packed and the spirit stones exchanged, Rinne tucked everything carefully into her bag, nodding briefly to Talia before turning to leave the building.
???
Outside the Outer Affairs Hall, Rinne didn''t head home right away.
Instead, she made her way over to the sect¡¯s junkyard, a short walk from the building. It was a sprawling area filled with discarded items: broken swords, shattered artifacts, household scraps, alchemic waste, and occasionally, human corpses. Rinne even spotted a complete alchemy cauldron missing one of its legs.
Though most of the items here were damaged, the old saying proved true: one person¡¯s trash was another¡¯s treasure.
This was a perfect spot to collect things at no cost since nobody cared what was taken, as these were due to be disposed of in bulk every few years.
The moment Rinne saw the cauldron, she suddenly remembered her stone cauldron at home. This was a good opportunity to replace her cauldron. Although this cauldron was missing one of its legs, but it was undoubtedly a functional alchemy cauldron.
"This is a good cauldron, I won''t be polite and take this with me."
Without further ado, she took the cauldron and put it into her spatial bag.
Of course, in this junkyard, there are still many things that can be used besides this cauldron. All she needed to do was just search for them from these piles of rubbish.
¡°Now then, it''s time for treasure hunting,¡±
Rinne murmured, stepping carefully among the piles of frozen waste.
The chill in the air worked in her favor, as the cold kept everything from rotting and producing unpleasant odors. She stepped over various frozen piles and began selecting items of potential use¡ªbroken swords, scraps of iron, and anything else she could melt down later. Her spatial bag had limited room, so she had to be selective.
She planned to forge her own spiritual weapon from these materials instead of spending her spirit stones to buy one. Collecting higher-end items would be impractical for now, as they¡¯d require exotic fire to melt, which she couldn¡¯t yet handle.
Once she had filled half of her spatial bag, Rinne looked around at the remaining piles but decided she had enough. Still, she was pleased with her haul, particularly the cauldron.
¡°Okay, this should be enough for now.¡±
With her collection done, she turned and left the junkyard. The remaining space in her bag would be saved for herbs and berries she planned to gather on her way back.
???
Some time later.
Once Rinne reached her atelier, the first thing she did was switch out her old stone cauldron for the new one she¡¯d picked up from the junkyard.
Although it was missing one of its legs, that didn¡¯t bother her, here in her atelier, she could create an illusion of a missing leg, or even make the cauldron float if she wanted.
¡°It¡¯s time for me to upgrade my cauldron,¡±
She said to herself, carefully cleaning it before adding her improvements.
Unlike the rough, hand-carved formation she¡¯d made on the stone cauldron, the newly made Cauldron Assist Formation Mk.II would be engraved by her Array Automatic Creation Formation, using the precise, micro sculpting technology.
This new formation was far beyond the first one she had created, packed with helpful features to make refining ingredients easier. The only thing Rinne needed to do was to supply a steady flow of spiritual energy, although the formation could also pull in energy from the air around it if she wanted to save her own strength.
The best part was, she didn¡¯t even need to light a fire anymore, as the formation itself could manage basic heating. Of course, it couldn''t imitate exotic flames, but for ordinary alchemical work, this was enough.
But the real power of this cauldron wasn¡¯t just the heating, it had a memory function that recorded each refining step. With a bit of adjustment, it could replicate any previous process perfectly.
Normally, controlling the properties of each plant or mineral was a constant challenge since every ingredient varied slightly in quality. This required most alchemists to focus intensely with their spiritual sense to adjust as they worked. But with this cauldron¡¯s automatic detection feature, she could process ingredients in a consistent way every time.
It was simply an alchemy cauldron for fools!
¡°With this, I won¡¯t have to work so hard on alchemy anymore!¡±
Rinne felt more than satisfied with her new arrangement.
Chapter 025 - Greenhouse
After finishing the matter of the cauldron, Rinne turned her attention to planting the seeds.
Naturally, the Frostfire Sect, with its extreme temperatures, wasn¡¯t an ideal place for farming. The sect was divided into two main areas: the valleys outside, where the cold was biting, and the volcanic mountains, where heat scorched the air. Only plants with dual affinities for both extreme cold and heat could survive in these conditions.
Of course, the sect had its own methods to grow crops. Specific lands were equipped with formations to adjust temperatures, creating an artificial environment suitable for farming.
These lands could be rented by spiritual planters, but there was a catch¡ªrent was not paid in spirit stones but in harvest. Planters were allowed to keep only 30% of their yield, while the remaining 70% had to be handed over to the sect. Rinne found this arrangement unfair and had no intention of following it.
After her usual briefing session in the Soul Library, she opened her eyes, her thoughts clear.
¡°The preparation is complete. I can start planting the seeds now,¡±
The formations used by the sect to isolate farming lands were, in her eyes, mediocre at best.
Compared to them, the Phantasmal Mirage Formation she used to decorate her atelier was leagues ahead. It could create an environment so convincing that even the most sensitive biological and spiritual senses would be fooled.
This formation had endless possibilities.
Was an Eternal Primrose supposed to grow at the bottom of the Frigid Abyss Lake? No problem.
Did the Infernal Ashroot require lava to thrive? Also no problem.
With this formation, Rinne could trick plants into believing they were in their ideal habitats. Even the nutrients the plants consumed didn¡¯t need to be precise; the formation could alter their ¡°taste¡± to make any spiritual energy suitable.
''Using this formation, even cat poop can taste like chocolate,''
Rinne chuckled, recalling a scene from her past life.
Once, she had hypnotized a group into eating their own fingers and intestines deliciously without feeling pain. Now, she planned to use a similar trick¡ªbut this time, her targets were plants.
Of course, while the formation can deceive the plant¡¯s senses, it doesn¡¯t actually change the spiritual energy itself.
If she wanted to replicate the energy fully, it would require much more intricate preparation, something impossible with her current resources. This means some behavioral changes in the plants are likely. By the time they mature, they could become entirely new breeds¡ªdifferent shapes, colors, or even medicinal properties.
Despite this uncertainty, Rinne didn¡¯t seem concerned. Instead, she smiled faintly.
¡°This is also an intriguing research.¡±
She activated the formation, manipulating it with her mental power to transform a section of her atelier into a new room. Inside, a three-floor multi-section greenhouse appeared. Each floor had ten sections, and every section could have its own unique environment.
Rinne chose a soilless planting method, using rockwool fabricated directly by the formation. She planted all 18 types of seeds in three sections on the first floor, leaving the remaining sections empty for future use.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.
''I''ll have to buy more seeds later, Outer Affair Hall should be able to provide them for me.''
To accelerate growth, Rinne used her Array Creation Formation to overlay the greenhouse with formations replicating the Spring Rain Blossom Technique and Spring Bloom Strain Technique.
Working together, these techniques would ensure the seeds germinated and matured in a fraction of the usual time.
"Let''s call this formation, Dual Spring Cultivation Array."
However, there was one issue¡ªthe spiritual energy consumption of the newly created Dual Spring Cultivation Array was enormous, far beyond what her spiritual gathering formation could provide. The only solution was to supplement it with spirit stones.
Without hesitation, Rinne threw 20 spirit stones into the energy extraction formation.
''This is a necessary expense, I can earn more later.''
The expenditure of spirit stones, worth two months¡¯ resources, didn¡¯t bother her. She knew the return would far outweigh the investment. With 152 spirit stones still left, she had enough to sustain her needs for now. By the time her reserves ran out, the plants would have matured, and she could sell pills to replenish her funds.
Satisfied with her preparations, Rinne stepped back to admire the results.
???
With the greenhouse now settled, Rinne shifted her focus to her practice.
The two Spirit Gathering Pills she had taken previously were fully digested, and it was time to consume another pair. She retrieved two superior-grade Spirit Gathering Pills from her stash. Their surfaces were etched with intricate, tiny inscriptions¡ªrunes so minute they would require microscopic sight to be properly examined.
Rinne didn¡¯t sell all the pills she made, keeping a portion, especially the superior-grade ones, for personal use. From her previous batch, she had set aside 25 Spirit Gathering Pills and 20 Fasting Pills of superior grade, reserving them for her own practice. Selling them wasn¡¯t even a consideration.
¡°It¡¯s time to eat the pills,¡±
She took one of the pills and swallowed it, guiding the spiritual energy into her meridians. Immediately, a warm current spread through her body, filling her with energy.
There was a faint pain, the sensation of her veins being tempered by the influx of spiritual energy. But with her pain perception reduced by almost 90%, it felt like little more than a minor discomfort. Moments later, her body began purging impurities, and dark, oily substances seeped out of her pores. Her body felt noticeably lighter.
Without delay, she consumed the second pill, repeating the process.
The difference between superior-grade and top-grade pills was substantial. Superior-grade pills boasted higher purity, more concentrated spiritual energy, and significantly fewer impurities.
It was known that pills also contained toxins that could hinder future practice, even top-grade pills were not exempt from this problem. It was just that the higher the quality, the lower the level of toxins.
Meanwhile, superior grade pills contained little to no toxins and could be consumed without side effects. The energy contained in the pills was extremely pure and easy to digest.
This could drastically shorten the time it would take Rinne to digest the energy from the pill from about a week, to an estimated time of about a day and a half.
With more pills, the speed of Rinne''s body tempering practice also increased, and with more training, the excretion of harmful substances also became faster. Rinne estimated that by the end of the month, all harmful impurities¡ªexcept for those in her bone marrow¡ªwould be completely expelled.
But there was more. As she absorbed the energy, she noticed an unexpected benefit: her spiritual root seemed to be stabilizing faster than anticipated.
With this realization, Rinne felt a surge of motivation.
¡°It seems that I can practice sooner than I expected,¡±
Initially, she had calculated it would take around a year for her spiritual root to fully stabilize. Now, with the current situation, she estimates full stabilization will take about four months.
But when she thought again, full stabilization wasn¡¯t necessary to begin cultivating.
As long as the stabilization rate exceeded 30%, she could start practicing her cultivation technique little by little. By cultivating, her spiritual root would naturally adapt, further increasing the stabilization rate. This meant her overall progress would accelerate, reducing the time needed for full stabilization.
What once seemed like a year-long process might now take only a few months.
Chapter 026 – Progress
Time flew by, and before Rinne realized it, a month had passed since she joined the Frostfire Sect.
During this time, her workshop had been a busy place, with many things happening.
First, her hard work on the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art had shown results. Her body had become stronger as her muscles, bones, veins, and blood were tempered by the pure spiritual energy from the superior-grade Spirit Gathering Pills she had been taking.
Most of the harmful substances in her body, over 90%, were expelled. However, there were still some impurities left in her bone marrow, which could only be removed with a Marrow Cleansing Pill. It was still a ticking time bomb that could cause problems in the long run, but at least for now, it wasn''t going to harm her internal organs any time soon.
Second, her spiritual root had also become more stable, reaching 30%.
This was the minimum level she had set to begin cultivating. Since then, she changed the automatic guidance function in the pill inscription to distribute a little spiritual energy to her dantian, which was to help her spiritual root get used to the energy. The process was uncomfortable and sometimes painful, but Rinne held on and didn¡¯t let it stop her.
For her cultivation technique, she chose the Rejuvenation Art. It wasn¡¯t a strong technique and didn¡¯t provide much fighting power, but it helped with healing injuries and living longer. Most people didn¡¯t use it unless they were older and wanted to extend their lifespan. Rinne, however, thought it was perfect for her current needs.
Third, in her greenhouse, the herbs she had planted grew quickly and were ready for harvest.
Herbs that originally took several months to mature could be matured after just twelve days, much faster than usual. Of course, when Rinne checked the medicinal properties of the herbs, the quality could not be said to be good, at most only one level below average.
That was the side effect of the Spring Bloom Strain Technique and also the reason why it was considered a heretical technique by the Alchemists. However, even though the plant has shortcomings, it does not mean that it cannot be used in alchemy, it is just that its effects are less than half of other ingredients with the same name.
Rinne harvested the herbs and replanted their seeds, ensuring a continuous supply. Instead of refining the herbs into pills right away, she processed them into liquid solutions and stored them for later use.
And now, Rinne went to the Outer Affairs Hall to sell the talismans she had made. Talia, the clerk who checked her goods, inspected them carefully and said,
"Thirty Body Feather Talismans and fifteen Golden Shield Talismans. They are good quality. I can give you thirty spirit stones for each. How about it?"
Rinne frowned under her mask and replied,
"Aren¡¯t your prices too low? I remember Body Feather Talismans selling for fifty spirit stones each."
Body Feather Talismans made the body as light as a feather, improving speed, while Golden Shield Talismans created a barrier strong enough to block attacks from cultivators at the peak of the Spirit Gathering stage. Both were popular first-grade talismans and sold well, so Rinne was sure their value should be higher.
Talia sighed and said,
"Hey, this is already the standard buying and selling price. You can¡¯t blame me for this. Check other talisman shops outside; their prices are similar."
Hearing this, Rinne was speechless.
She quickly checked some memories in her Soul Library and found that Talia was right¡ªthe talisman market wasn¡¯t as profitable as she had assumed. Still, Rinne wasn¡¯t at much of a loss.
Unlike other talisman makers, she used her Array Creation Formation to make them and didn¡¯t even use the Snow Rabbit Blood she bought. The blood was saved for alchemy solutions instead.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
The use of blood or spiritual ink into the talisman was only as a medium for the flow of spiritual energy, to channel the spiritual energy of the talisman maker. Otherwise, the paper would burn if the spiritual energy directly pressed with the paper. However, with the correct method of channeling the runes, this problem would not occur.
At first glance, the talismans Rinne made looked like ordinary talismans, but if a talisman expert were to examine them, they would find something strange.
Countless Reinforcement runes were mixed together, drawn using micro sculpting technology that humans could not do, carefully arranged so that their energy could be reused by the talisman''s original runes, which were also drawn using micro sculpting. After that, the runes were disguised by ordinary-looking lines formed not by ink, but by extremely precise heat.
If it weren''t for the limited durability of paper, she could make more than just talismans. In fact, she had some ideas that had yet to be realized. Perhaps, with some special paper, she could make talismans that would not be consumed when used, but could be used many times.
Of course, the packaging was important, rather than in the form of paper that was easily damaged by water, wouldn''t it be better if it was in the form of a waterproof card. As for the name, it was no longer appropriate to call it a talisman, it was more appropriate to call it a spell card.
Maybe it was not impossible to make a Raigeki card.
While Rinne was busy daydreaming, thinking about unrelated things, Talia was really in a dilemma.
''This little girl, I remember she bought 50 blank talisman papers, and now, she took out 45 talismans. That means a success rate of 90%! But how... oh wait, I get it!''
For a talisman maker, a success rate of 10% was already considered an expert, let alone 90%.
Given the girl¡¯s age, it was impossible for her to make that many talismans in just two weeks, let alone with a 90% success rate. That meant that it was most likely her mysterious father who made these talismans. Also, since they seemed to be able to interact normally, this father must also be a member of the Frostfire sect.
Before, it was pills, now it was talisman.
With this level of skill, he definitely wasn¡¯t just a disciple, he was most likely an elder. And this quirky little girl wearing a mask, was the elder''s daughter.
So, Talia decided to try to flatter Rinne.
"How about this? I¡¯ll give you forty-five spirit stones each. I can¡¯t go higher since I also need to make a profit."
Talia''s words brought Rinne back to reality.
Unexpectedly, Talia was the first to propose a price increase. Although Rinne was quite confused as to why Talia did that, there was no reason to refuse.
"Hmm, okay then."
With that, she earned 2,025 spirit stones.
She used eight to buy another fifty sheets of blank talisman paper, and several bottles of various spirit beast blood. Then, another 17 spirit stones more for seeds of ten different plants. Then she handed 2,000 spirit stones back to Talia.
"I want to make a commission for Eternal Primrose and Infernal Ashroot. Is 1,000 spirit stones each enough?"
Rinne only needed those two key ingredients, as for the other missing ingredients, their effects could be recreated with alchemy. She could have walked to the Mission Hall and set up the task, but in the end she decided not to.
Although it was more expensive, it would be more efficient to rely on Talia''s connections than some unknown disciples.
Talia nodded, a pleased smile on her face.
"Of course, that¡¯s enough. I¡¯ll contact you when I have the goods."
With that, Rinne returned the 2000 spirit stones to Talia. In the end, not a single spirit stone remained in Rinne''s hands for long.
Fortunately, the spirit stones she had obtained from the previous transaction had not run out and could meet her needs for now. And once they ran out, she could sell some talismans to make some quick money.
"Thank you."
After her business was done, there was no reason to stay.
Before leaving, Rinne suddenly remembered something.
''Ah yes, I almost forgot. I have to return the 5 Fireball talismans from Kael. After all, being in debt isn''t a pleasant thing.''
During the recruitment trials, he had given her five Fireball Talismans, of which she used two for makeshift alchemy.
She already decided to repay him with five brand-new talismans. Of course, Rinne didn''t plan to just send ordinary talismans, but talismans with better effects created by her technology. These talismans were far stronger and could easily kill a 2nd-grade beast in one hit.
However, Rinne did not plan to meet him in person.
Rinne put the talismans in a tightly closed wooden box, then went to the logistics room in the Outer Affair Hall. She secretly placed the box and disguised it as a delivery package with Kael''s name as the recipient.
"I hope he¡¯ll be happy with the gift,"
With her business done, Rinne left the building.
But before going home, she stopped by the sect''s junkyard again to collect more materials.
Chapter 027 – Jackpot in the Junkyard
After leaving the Outer Affairs Hall, Rinne made her way to the Frostfire Sect¡¯s junkyard once again.
This place had become a regular stop for her whenever she had some free time. Over the weeks, her growing collection of seemingly useless items had taken up a corner of her workspace, lovingly organized into neat piles of "potential treasures."
One corner of her atelier was dedicated to these treasures-in-waiting. She hadn¡¯t yet begun restoring them, as she wanted her spiritual root to fully stabilize before undertaking such projects, but it didn¡¯t hurt to gather resources in advance.
As people lived their lives, they naturally produced trash, and the junkyard grew a little more crowded each day. Today, however, it held an unexpected surprise.
¡°Oh, jackpot!¡±
Rinne¡¯s voice rang out with glee as she stopped in her tracks.
Among the usual piles of debris lay several human forms. These were handymen of varying ages, clad in their standard uniforms, with injuries ranging from minor to catastrophic. Some were missing limbs, others bore deep gashes, and a few looked like they had been crushed under immense weight.
¡°It¡¯s not easy being a handyman,¡±
Rinne shook her head in pity.
Handymen led precarious lives, their work often undervalued and their safety routinely ignored. It was the same across all sects. While they performed essential chores, the risks they faced were steep, and their lives were often considered expendable.
Feeding spiritual beasts was a common task for handymen, yet many met grisly ends when the creatures turned on them. Clearing snow-covered paths posed another danger; those who weren¡¯t careful could succumb to frostbite or even freeze to death outright. And perhaps the most frequent cause of their demise: offending someone important. Inner disciples or elders were often quick to mete out harsh punishments, even for the smallest of perceived mistakes, leading to injuries or worse.
Rinne¡¯s mood didn¡¯t falter as she approached; instead, her expression turned thoughtful. These weren¡¯t just corpses¡ªthey were raw materials.
''These will make excellent puppets,''
Refining puppets was a controversial practice, labeled as forbidden and evil by the Immortal Alliance.
But rules like that only mattered if one got caught. Puppets could serve as invaluable assistants to their refiners, whether in combat or daily tasks. As these particular bodies were handyman, they wouldn¡¯t be much use in a fight, but they would be very useful for handling chores.
She began methodically storing the bodies in her spatial bag, brushing off frost as she worked. The cold climate of the Frostfire Sect was another reason she¡¯d chosen to stay here¡ªconditions like these preserved materials in an ideal state, making her work much easier.
As she scanned the pile for anything else of interest, Rinne noticed something unusual. One of the figures¡ªa girl wearing a bloodstained inner disciple¡¯s uniform¡ªwas still alive.
¡°Huh, are you okay?¡±
Rinne asked, crouching down beside the girl.
The girl didn¡¯t respond, her pale face lifeless and slack. Blood pooled around her abdomen, the wound still oozing faint traces of spiritual energy. Rinne inspected the girl with her spiritual sense and frowned. She was at the 8th level of the Spirit Gathering stage, but her spiritual root had been shattered, and her energy was leaking uncontrollably. It was a fatal condition for any cultivator.
Rinne examined the girl¡¯s face but found no familiarity. This wasn¡¯t someone from her list of previous victims, which meant that in her last life, this girl had likely died here, unnoticed and unremembered.
Unconsciously, Rinne reached a hand toward the girl¡¯s temple but stopped short. Her heart skipped a beat.
¡°That was close,¡±
She muttered, retracting her hand. In her previous life, she wouldn¡¯t have hesitated to use the Soul Search Technique to extract the girl¡¯s memories. Depending on the usefulness of the target¡¯s identity, Rinne could have impersonated her or exploited her connections.
But that was the past. She had left those ways behind.
Still, Rinne was curious about the girl¡¯s story. Since she couldn¡¯t directly extract the memories, she would have to rely on indirect methods. Perhaps the memories she had obtained from others in her past could provide some context.
And so, she took a moment to access her Soul Library.
She sifted through countless threads of fragmented memories, searching for anything connected to the girl lying before her. It didn¡¯t take long for a story to unravel, one filled with drama and intrigue.
The girl¡¯s name was Lyra Zhelar, the adopted daughter of Elder Zhelar, one of the Frostfire Sect¡¯s more influential elders. Lyra had been brought into the sect as an orphan and raised alongside the elder¡¯s biological daughter, Celis Zhelar. On the surface, the two girls appeared to share a bond of sisterhood, but beneath the facade, jealousy simmered.
Lyra, though adopted, had an unyielding determination and worked tirelessly to cultivate, eventually surpassing Celis in talent and strength. Celis, unwilling to accept being overshadowed, began spreading rumors that Lyra had resorted to forbidden techniques to artificially enhance her cultivation.
These accusations escalated until they reached the sect elders. And during the fateful day in the sect hall in front of the elders, Elder Zhelar was forced to act.
To protect his reputation and appease the sect, Elder Zhelar publicly denounced Lyra. Her cultivation was destroyed as punishment, leaving her disgraced and discarded. Now, Lyra had been abandoned to the junkyard, left to die unnoticed and forgotten.
Rinne opened her eyes and let out a chuckle.
¡°What a classic story.¡±
At first, she simply stood up and turned away. Her plan had always been to cultivate quietly, avoiding the entanglements of righteousness, evil, or the convoluted schemes of inner disciples. This wasn¡¯t her battle, and getting involved would only complicate things.
But after a few steps, she paused.
It would have been one thing if the girl had died without Rinne''s awareness, but now that she was aware, allowing the girl to die intentionally would have undoubtedly left her with a sour feeling.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.
With a sigh of resignation, she turned back.
¡°Alright, alright. Let¡¯s see what we can do.¡±
???
Other''s POV:
The scene shifted to Kael Verin''s dormitory.
A young talisman apprentice sat deep in concentration. His usual cheerfulness was replaced by a furrowed brow as he sat cross-legged at his desk. The faint scent of burnt paper lingered in the room, a testament to his ongoing struggles.
Kael had recently reached the peak of the second level of the Spirit Gathering stage.
Unfortunately, he was still a few steps short of breaking through. For now, he focused on consolidating his spiritual energy, carefully building momentum for a breakthrough to the third level. Of course, he hadn¡¯t neglected his talisman-making practice¡ªas a family tradition and also as a source of income to support his cultivation needs.
At the moment, Kael was engrossed in crafting the Body Feather Talisman. Unlike the Fireball Talisman, which he could now produce effortlessly, this one required meticulous control of spiritual energy¡ªa balance he was slowly beginning to understand through repeated failures.
A soft glow began to emanate from the talisman paper on his desk, but something was off. Sparks erupted from the paper, and within seconds, it crumbled to ash. Kael sighed deeply, setting down his brush and leaning back in his chair.
He stared at the charred remains on the desk.
''The Body Feather Talisman needs such precise energy control. It¡¯s nothing like the Fireball Talisman, where I can just pour in power. But... this time, I almost had it. Next time, I¡¯ll get it right.''
One of his roommates, Arven had been leaning against the wall, arms crossed, observing Kael¡¯s relentless efforts with growing concern. He was quite worried about Kael''s current state of mind. In Arven''s mind, Kael was chasing a ghost that most likely did not exist.
It seemed like Kael''s mind was still clouded by the figure of Rin, whose existence Arven still had doubts about.
¡°Kael, you¡¯re working yourself too hard,¡±
Arven said, stepping forward and breaking the silence. His voice carried both worry and a hint of exasperation.
¡°My aunt always told me that cultivation can''t be rushed. It isn¡¯t just about effort¡ªit¡¯s about balance. The mind needs rest too.¡±
Kael turned to him, silent for a moment as Arven¡¯s words sank in. He looked down at the charred talisman remnants, the weight of his efforts settling in his chest. He didn¡¯t want to admit it, but there was truth in his friend¡¯s advice.
After a moment, Kael pushed his chair back and stood, stretching his stiff limbs. A faint smile crossed his face.
¡°You¡¯re probably right. Let¡¯s take a break. How about we grab something to eat at the cafeteria?
Kael finally admitted with a small nod. With a tired mind, forcing himself would only have a negative impact on whatever he wanted to do. Perhaps a change of scenery could provide some useful insight.
Arven¡¯s nodded at the suggestion, his demeanor softening.
¡°That sounds good! Let¡¯s go.¡±
He grabbed his outer robe from the nearby hook and prepared to leave, glancing over his shoulder at Kael.
Kael turned to the other two roommates, commoner disciples named Gren and Jax, who had been sitting quietly in their bed. He smiled at them warmly and extended the invitation.
¡°Hey, want to join us?¡±
Kael asked, his tone inviting and sincere.
However, on the side, Arven silently glared at them, warning them as lowly creatures to know their place. Although the sect claimed equality among disciples, old biases lingered.
Most of the wealthy and noble-born disciples disdained those of humble origins and often kept their distance from them. Arven was no exception on this. Maybe it was just Kael who was the oddball here, but Arven didn''t say anything else so as not to hurt his feelings.
The two boys exchanged uneasy glances before Jax spoke up, his voice low and hesitant.
¡°Uh, no thanks, Senior Brother Verin. We¡¯ve got... other things to take care of.¡±
Hearing their reply, Kael only sighed, his tone neutral as he responded.
¡°I see. Well then, see you later.¡±
Though his words were simple, his calm demeanor showed he had expected this answer. After all, he had spent almost a month as their roommate, and their attitudes were still the same. Maybe it was just like his father said, not everyone could be friends.
Before they left the room, Arven suddenly remembered.
¡°Oh, right... You got a package earlier. It¡¯s on your bed.¡±
Kael raised an eyebrow in surprise and turned to find a simple wooden box resting neatly on his blanket. It was plain and unadorned, without any identifying marks or a sender¡¯s name. Picking it up, he inspected it briefly before opening it.
Inside were five neat stacks of Fireball Talismans. The sight made Kael¡¯s eyes widen. He carefully lifted one stack, feeling the energy radiating from it.
Arven asked incredulously, stepping closer to get a better look.
¡°Fireball Talismans? What kind of idiot sends fire talismans to Frostfire Sect? They¡¯ll just fizzle out in this cold climate.¡±
Kael, however, didn¡¯t share Arven¡¯s dismissive attitude.
He examined the talismans closely, his fingers brushing over the runes. The spiritual energy within was dense and concentrated¡ªfar more potent than any Fireball Talisman he had ever drawn or seen.
What¡¯s more, the runes were flawless¡ªeach stroke beautiful and consistent. It didn¡¯t take long for Kael to realize that these weren¡¯t drawn by using a brush but were created through extraordinary means beyond Kael''s comprehension.
A thought struck him, his heart pounding with excitement.
¡°Rin! It¡¯s definitely Rin who sent this!¡±
Kael¡¯s mind raced. No wonder Rin hadn¡¯t been impressed by the Verin clan¡¯s talismans back there.
Compared to these masterpieces, even the ones drawn by talisman masters of his clan seemed like child¡¯s play. He had assumed Rin came from a hidden clan, and this package only reinforced his belief.
¡°Uh, Kael? What¡¯s wrong?¡±
Arven, who noticed Kael''s silence, couldn''t help but ask.
Kael quickly composed himself, slipping the talismans and the box into his spatial bag.
¡°Nothing. Let¡¯s go.¡±
As they left the dorm, Kael¡¯s thoughts lingered on the package. He didn¡¯t plan to tell Arven what he had found.
He had thought this through more thoroughly. Since Rin had gone to the trouble taking a disguise of a beggar, it was likely that Rin would do the same in the Frostfire Sect. This package was the proof that Rin was somewhere in this place. For now, that was enough.
Moreover, this package wasn¡¯t just a gift¡ªit was a message.
¡°Rin is here, somewhere in this sect. And this... This is a challenge. Rin¡¯s telling me I¡¯m not worthy yet. But just wait¡ªI¡¯ll prove myself to you.¡±
Kael clenched his fist.
The message basically tells Kael that if he wants to meet Rin, he must at least be able to recreate or surpass the talismans. It was a difficult task for sure, but Kael was sure that sooner or later he would succeed.
With that thought burning in his mind, Kael followed Arven out of the dorm, his resolve firmer than ever.
Chapter 028 – Lyra Zhelar
Rinne knelt beside Lyra again and tapped several of her acupoints with precision.
This would slow her metabolism, effectively reducing blood and energy loss. The tension in Lyra¡¯s pale face eased slightly, though she remained unconscious. After unfastening the girl''s bloodstained robe, her gaze fell on the glaring wound in the abdomen. The sight was grim, but Rinne remained unfazed.
Cultivators were renowned for their tenacity, and this girl was no exception. Despite her injuries and broken spiritual root, her sheer life force had kept her alive until now¡ªthough only barely. Rinne couldn¡¯t bring her back to her atelier unnoticed, so emergency treatment would have to be done here.
This was a race against time.
¡°Unfortunately, my cultivation is low, so I can only use the stupidest method to stop your blood loss.¡±
Focusing her mental power, she constructed a set of tiny fire runes in the air.
This was the Void Talisman Technique, a method of drawing talismans directly in the air without the need for paper. Though considered a lost art, someone had rediscovered it but the person ended up as her victim during her past life, though that was a tale for another day.
Rinne held back from activating the rune right away, fearing the cold wind would extinguish the fire. Instead, she pressed the rune directly against the wound before activating it. A sharp hiss followed as the rune cauterized the wound, sealing it to stop the bleeding. This would definitely leave a scar.
Rinne could only feel sorry for the girl.
"If you care about appearances, you can buy a Beauty Pill later and fix it yourself."
With the immediate bleeding under control, Rinne turned her attention to the broken spiritual root. Using her spiritual sense, she examined its condition carefully.
''Fortunately, the spiritual root is still there. It¡¯s easier to repair a broken one than to recreate it from scratch.''
Reaching into her spatial bag, she took out a middle-grade Spirit Gathering Pill.
Normally, to repair damaged spiritual root, one would need a third-grade healing pill called Golden Lotus Pill. Naturally, she had no such thing in her hands. However, in this case, the pill itself didn''t really matter. What mattered was the pill inscription that she would imprint onto the pill.
As for the middle-grade Spirit Gathering Pill, it was simply a worthless pill by Rinne''s standards. In the end, the girl was just a stranger and Rinne had no obligation to use good things on her.
Rinne closed her eyes and accessed her Soul Library, designing a custom pill inscription tailored to Lyra¡¯s injuries. The process was straightforward in her mind: guide the pill¡¯s energy to the dantian, transform it into fine threads, and use them to suture the broken spiritual root. Once the threads stabilized the root, Lyra¡¯s own energy would complete the repair.
It took Rinne quite a while to complete her design, and once she did, she immediately returned and woke up in the real world. The inscription imprinted onto the pill within seconds, its faint glow confirming the modification.
"Ok, this will do."
As she moved to feed the pill to Lyra, the girl¡¯s eyelids fluttered, and her eyes slowly opened.
Rinne froze, her hand stopping instinctively mid-motion. For a brief moment, she regarded Lyra with a neutral expression, her next action paused by the unexpected development.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.
???
Lyra''s POV:
Lyra had been conscious ever since the searing pain of cauterization jolted her awake.
The agony was unbearable, yet her body was so weak that opening her eyes or moving a muscle seemed impossible. She could only lie there, enduring, as the realization slowly dawned¡ªsomeone was saving her.
The smell of burned flesh lingered in the air, and the cold ground beneath her seemed to sap what little strength she had left. Despite her frailty, her mind remained alert, trying to piece together her situation. Whoever this person was, they hadn¡¯t left her to die. For now, that was enough.
Her thoughts drifted back to her childhood, a mixture of memories both sweet and bitter. Lyra had been adopted into Elder Zhelar¡¯s family at the tender age of six. She had vague recollections of a simpler, quieter life before that¡ªa family she could no longer remember, faces that had faded into obscurity. Elder Zhelar, a respected figure in the Frostfire Sect, had taken her in and given her a new home.
At first, life with the Zhelar family was idyllic. Celia Zhelar, the elder¡¯s biological daughter, was a year older and seemed every bit the caring older sister. Lyra still remembered the first day Celia spoke to her, her voice sweet and inviting.
"Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll like it here. I¡¯ll take care of you, okay?"
Celia had said, crouching beside Lyra, who was timidly clutching a wooden doll.
Celia''s warmth had soothed Lyra''s anxieties, making her feel a sense of belonging she hadn''t experienced in months. They shared laughter in the gardens, raced through fields dusted with frost, and confided their secrets under the moonlit sky. At least, Lyra had thought they were secrets.
Their bond seemed unshakable, but subtle cracks began to form as they grew older. Lyra¡¯s cultivation talent became apparent early on. Her ice-attributed spiritual root was a rare treasure in the Frostfire Sect, and it allowed her to progress at an astonishing rate. By the age of 18, she had reached the 10th level of the Spirit Gathering stage¡ªa feat that drew both admiration and envy.
One evening, as Lyra showcased her intricate ice technique, crafting crystalline flowers in her hand, Celia said to her.
"You¡¯re incredible... Father always talks about how proud he is of you."
The words had sounded kind, but there was a glint in Celia¡¯s eyes that Lyra couldn¡¯t quite place. At the time, she dismissed it, believing her sister¡¯s admiration to be genuine.
By contrast, Celia¡¯s progress had been slower. At 19, she was still at the 8th level of the Spirit Gathering stage. Lyra often tried to encourage her, offering tips and sparring sessions to help her improve.
"Don¡¯t push yourself too hard, Celia. You¡¯ll get there. Everyone has their own pace."
Lyra had said after a training session where Celia had struggled to keep up.
But instead of gratitude, Celia¡¯s face twisted into something unreadable. Lyra brushed it off, chalking it up to frustration. She never imagined it was the beginning of something far darker.
Lyra had been confident about her future. The Foundation Establishment stage was within her grasp, and the sect¡¯s upcoming assessment offered a rare opportunity¡ªthe coveted Foundation Pill, awarded to the top ten disciples. Lyra was certain she could secure a place among them, paving her way to breaking through in less than five years.
Everything had seemed so smooth, so promising, until the day it all unraveled.
"She¡¯s using demonic techniques! That¡¯s how she¡¯s advancing so quickly!"
Celia¡¯s voice rang out in the sect hall, loud enough for everyone to hear.
Lyra¡¯s breath had caught in her throat as all eyes turned to her. She couldn¡¯t understand what was happening. Why was Celia saying such things?
Lyra instinctively shouted, her voice trembling but firm.
"That¡¯s a lie! I would never¡ª"
But before she could finish, the detection tool was brought forth, and to her horror, it revealed traces of demonic energy. The accusation was absurd, yet somehow, the evidence was damning.
The events that followed were a blur of shame and pain. Her cultivation was destroyed as punishment, leaving her broken in every sense of the word. Cast out, humiliated, and left for dead, she had ended up here.
The cold pressed against her, a chilling reminder of her current state. As she finally mustered the strength to open her eyes, the blurry figure of the person saving her came into focus.
The figure was clad in an outer disciple¡¯s uniform, the hood drawn low over their head. A wolf skull mask obscured their face, leaving only a faint silhouette visible in the dim light. Despite this, Lyra could tell from the soft tone she had heard earlier¡ªthis was a young girl.
The girl froze when Lyra¡¯s eyes fluttered open, her gaze locking onto Lyra¡¯s with an unreadable expression. The silence stretched between them, unspoken words hanging in the cold air.
Chapter 029 – Fabricated Identity
The awkward situation didn¡¯t last too long.
Even with Lyra awake, Rinne¡¯s task remained unchanged. Lyra¡¯s breathing was still weak, and she didn¡¯t seem capable of doing much yet. Rinne crouched beside her and prepared to administer the pill. Before doing so, she spoke in an even tone, her voice partially muffled by the wolf skull mask and the hood of her outer disciple uniform.
¡°You¡¯re awake. This simplifies things. Don¡¯t resist and concentrate. This pill can help you repair your spiritual roots.¡±
Lyra nodded faintly, her gaze filled with trust and desperation.
Without resistance, she swallowed the pill Rinne placed in her mouth. The pill dissolved instantly, releasing its potent spiritual energy that coursed through her body like a soothing tide. The energy pooled in her dantian, spreading outward to the broken fragments of her spiritual root.
Rinne observed the entire process with her spiritual sense.
The spiritual energy from the pill acted as tiny threads, attaching to the broken fragments of Lyra¡¯s spiritual root. These threads pulled the fragments toward one another, stitching them back together with delicate precision. One by one, the pieces reconnected, merging into the main root.
Everything proceeded exactly as Rinne had envisioned when designing the pill inscription. However, she had no way of knowing the original shape of Lyra¡¯s spiritual root. The reconnections were made according to proximity for convenience, like grafting branches from the same plant together.
Of course, a spiritual root was no mere plant, and such changes would undoubtedly affect Lyra¡¯s future cultivation. There was little Rinne could do about that now; Lyra would have to adapt to the changes on her own.
Now that Lyra''s treatment had been taken care of, Rinne had to consider the aftermath. Currently, Lyra was considered a criminal; if she were found to be safe and well, there was a high chance she might be hunted down and killed for good. To prevent this, she would need a brand-new identity.
As Rinne pondered the situation, an idea began to form in her mind.
???
Lyra¡¯s POV:
The process of reconnecting her spiritual root took about one and a half incense sticks¡¯ worth of time.
As the final fragment fused with the main root, Lyra felt a wave of relief wash over her. Her spiritual energy no longer leaked from her dantian, and the biting cold of the weather no longer sapped her strength.
However, pain lingered in her abdomen, sharp and unrelenting. Even extending her spiritual sense felt like an agonizing ordeal. Despite this, Lyra managed to wake fully and push herself into a sitting position. She glanced down at herself and froze, mortified to find she was in nothing but her underwear.
Before she could voice her embarrassment, the masked girl tossed a sect handyman¡¯s robe and a mask in her direction.
¡°Your status can be considered a fugitive now, wear this for now and follow me.¡±
Lyra hesitated briefly, then obeyed, slipping into the rough but functional garment and donning the mask. After she finished changing, the girl looked at her seriously before speaking.
"Can you suppress your cultivation level to the 4th level of Spirit Gathering?"
Lyra tilted her head slightly, then nodded.
Without further ado, she closed her eyes and focused. A faint fluctuation of spiritual energy rippled through the air as her aura diminished, aligning perfectly with the 4th level. The girl gave a small nod of approval, satisfied with how smoothly Lyra accomplished the task.
"Good. Let¡¯s proceed,"
Lyra followed the girl through the frosty terrain, her curiosity growing with each step. This mysterious figure couldn¡¯t be much older than 10 years old, yet her calm demeanor and decisive actions were far from childlike.
She began to reassess her earlier assumptions.
The cultivation level she had sensed¡ª1st level of Spirit Gathering Stage¡ªseemed implausible. The pill that had repaired her spiritual root was likely a Golden Lotus Pill. That was a 3rd-grade pill, comparable in value to a Foundation Pill. No cultivator at the 1st level of Spirit Gathering Stage could possess such a pill, let alone use it so casually.
Lyra recalled the various ways cultivation levels could be concealed. Techniques like the Turtle Breath Technique she did just earlier could suppress one¡¯s aura, and numerous treasures could achieve similar effects. Another possibility crossed her mind, although it seemed unlikely.
''Could this senior be a Body Snatcher?''
Nascent Soul cultivators who died could still linger in the world for a certain period in their soul form. These wandering souls could possess others, often targeting children or babies. They were particularly vulnerable since they had not yet established their cultivation, making possession easier. This practice, known as Body Snatching, allowed such souls to begin anew life at the cost of another life.
However, sect formations under the Immortal Alliance banner were specifically designed to repel such entities. Given this, Lyra set the notion aside, though her curiosity about Rinne¡¯s true nature only deepened.
As they trudged through the snow, Lyra decided to break the silence.
¡°Thank you for saving my life, senior. I am Lyra Zhelar.¡±
A moment later, she hesitated, realized that she had been disowned not too long ago. The memory of the harsh words, the finality of the separation, and the sting of being cast out from what she called family all came rushing back. From then on, she was no longer allowed to use the surname Zhelar.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
She lowered her voice, correcting herself.
¡°No, I am Lyra. I have no surname.¡±
The girl gave no immediate reaction, continuing to walk ahead in silence. Lyra mustered her courage and asked,
¡°May I ask senior¡¯s name?¡±
Hearing her question, the girl stopped walking, seemingly lost in thought. She turned her head slightly toward Lyra, her expression unreadable behind the mask.
The girl asked with a calm but detached voice.
¡°Do I have to answer that question? Is knowing my name important?¡±
Lyra¡¯s heart sank slightly.
She had only meant to show gratitude and satisfy her curiosity. However, her question, though seemingly innocent and straightforward, might have been interpreted by the senior as presumptuous.
Still, she maintained her composure, replying with a polite tone.
¡°No. If senior doesn¡¯t want to answer, then senior doesn¡¯t have to.¡±
The girl went silent for a moment, her gaze turning forward again. Then, with an air of understanding, she spoke.
¡°I see. It is inconvenient if you don¡¯t know what to call me. Let¡¯s see¡ you can call me¡ yes¡ Agrat, Agrat bat Mahlat.¡±
Lyra blinked, unsure if the name was real or fabricated, but she decided not to press further.
Instead, she repeated the name aloud.
¡°Agrat bat Mahlat. Is that senior¡¯s name? It doesn¡¯t seem like a surname¡¡±
She couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the meaning behind such an unusual name. Before she could speculate further, Agrat answered.
¡°It means Agrat, daughter of Mahlat.¡±
With that, she resumed her walk.
Lyra quickly followed, her mind swirling with thoughts. From Agrat''s full name, which uses a different customary naming, Lyra concluded that she came from a distant place that had not yet been reached by the influence of the Immortal Alliance. Otherwise, she would have introduced herself using the unified language standards.
As Lyra pondered this, Agrat spoke again.
¡°By the way, you keep calling me senior, perhaps because you think of me as some sort of old guy snatching a child¡¯s body, right? But I can tell you, this body has been mine from birth, and I am currently seven years old. According to seniority, I am still your junior.¡±
Lyra was stunned. ¡°What?!¡±
Agrat ignored her reaction and continued.
¡°Our Qadistu¡ tribe, clan, family, or whatever term you use in your language, is a bit special. We inherit our parents¡¯ memories from their birth up to the time they copulate to create us. And of course, parents inherited grandparents¡¯ memories. This continues all the way back to the first ancestor, accumulating countless knowledge in the process. The reason why I don''t act like a child is because of this.¡±
Lyra listened in awe, struggling to comprehend such an extraordinary lineage.
From her understanding, this Qadistu was similar to the clan system but with a different naming custom. They did not add their clan name to their surname, instead they used the same naming method as ordinary commoners.
But what was surprising was their ability to pass on memories to their descendants. She pictured the senior, a seemingly ordinary little girl, yet holding within her the accumulated wisdom of countless ancestors. Was it possible that she had witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth and death of stars?
¡°Does that mean senior has indirectly experienced thousands of years?¡±
Despite Agrat¡¯s earlier correction, Lyra couldn¡¯t help but address her as senior. Lyra felt it would be rude to call Agrat by her first name, even though Lyra was technically Agrat''s senior sister now.
Agrat didn¡¯t seem to mind. She paused for a moment, as if contemplating, before replying.
¡°Not really. I¡¯m still too young right now. The limit of the memories I can access is very restricted. I¡¯ll gain access to more as I reach certain strengths.¡±
Lyra nodded, though another question burned in her mind.
If what Agrat said was true, then the Qadistu clan¡¯s accumulated knowledge could rival, or even surpass, that of the Immortal Alliance itself. This revelation sent a thrill through her, but it also raised a multitude of questions.
- What kind of knowledge had her clan gathered over the years?
- Was it merely historical, or did it encompass powerful techniques and secrets that could change the balance of power?
The Immortal Alliance, known for its vast resources and connections, had always been a formidable entity. If her clan truly held knowledge that could match or exceed theirs, it could shift the dynamics of their world.
¡°This Qadistu clan seems really great. Such a powerful clan¡ªwhy has no one ever heard of them?¡±
To this, Agrat simply shook her head.
¡°We¡¯re almost at our destination. I suggest you don¡¯t ask further. Quickly forget and don¡¯t tell anyone about our conversation just now. Otherwise, bad things will happen.¡±
Hearing the serious tone in Agrat¡¯s voice, Lyra didn¡¯t dare press further. It was clear the water ran too deep for her to wade into. It wasn''t long ago that Lyra became the victim of a conspiracy created by Celia. She had no desire to involve herself in another conspiracy.
She glanced ahead, spotting the Outer Affairs Hall. Curiosity filled her once more. Why had Agrat brought her here? Whatever the reason, she would find out soon enough.
???
Rinne¡¯s POV:
While Lyra appeared deep in thought, Rinne found herself sinking into a pit of self-loathing.
All because she didn¡¯t want to reveal her real name, she had ended up fabricating an elaborate lie¡ªnaming herself after a game character and conjuring up a ridiculous backstory of a hidden clan with fantastical abilities.
She could only feel sorry for a certain Qadistu demon for borrowing her name.
''Why the heck did I do that?''
Rinne sighed inwardly. The habit of creating false identities had been an essential skill during her days as an evil cultivator, and it seemed to have followed her into this life.
She couldn¡¯t help but resent Lyra for asking her name. Even the Outer Affairs Hall staff hadn¡¯t asked for it. But in Talia¡¯s case, there hadn¡¯t even been a need, as her information was already printed on her sect token.
Now the lie had been told, and she had no choice but to make up more lies to support it. Fortunately, the hidden clan story she had fabricated would provide a reasonable excuse if anyone tried to investigate. No records would naturally mean the clan was too well-hidden to be found.
Everything had already happened, thinking about it was no longer any use. Rather than continue dwelling on that, it would be better for her to focus on the next problem.
Reaching into her bag, Rinne pulled out a sect token and handed it to Lyra.
¡°Before we enter the hall, activate this with your spiritual energy,¡±
The token had belonged to a deceased 2nd level of Spirit Gathering stage female handyman disciple named Fenira.
It was the same disciple whose robe Lyra now wore. Of course, Rinne had already erased Fenira¡¯s spiritual imprint and manipulated the token¡¯s information to retain only the necessary details.
Frostfire Sect¡¯s tokens were crafted by the Artifact Refining Peak, which of course, also listed in Rinne''s victim lists. Naturally, the elder there had the knowledge of the mechanisms of the tokens. Rinne had only to search and read the relevant memories to learn it.
Lyra accepted the token, her body expression shifting from surprise to understanding. Rinne could only guess what thoughts were running through Lyra¡¯s mind, but in the end, it probably didn¡¯t matter.
Without hesitation, Lyra activated the token with her spiritual energy. A faint glow emanated from the artifact, signaling the establishment of a new spiritual imprint. From this moment forward, Lyra had inherited the identity of the late Fenira, a Frostfire Sect handyman disciple.
With the matter settled, the two of them entered the Outer Affairs Hall.
Chapter 030 – Illegal Inner Disciple
As Rinne and Lyra stepped into the Outer Affair Hall, the bustle of activity within subsided for a moment.
Their appearance drew curious glances from the disciples waiting in line. Lyra felt a little embarrassed, but she remained silent, following Rinne¡¯s lead. Rinne, on the other hand, strode forward with unwavering confidence, seemingly unbothered by the attention.
When their turn came, they approached the counter where Talia was.
"Oh, hello again. Is there anything else you need?"
She paused, her eyes flicking between the familiar short figure in the outer disciple uniform and the taller, unfamiliar one in the handyman¡¯s attire. She couldn¡¯t help but feel surprised.
It had only been a few hours since Rinne''s last visit, yet here she was again, only this time she had brought a follower.
¡°Already recruiting handymen into your circle?¡±
Talia muttered under her breath, half joking. But in her heart, she became a little worried. She couldn''t help but think that perhaps a new strange group wearing masks had formed within the sect.
Rinne''s response was as brief as ever.
¡°This time, it¡¯s not about me but her. She has reached the 4th level of the Spirit Gathering stage today, so her information needs to be updated. She also needs to rent a house.¡±
As she spoke, Rinne gestured toward Lyra.
Talia¡¯s eyes lingered on Lyra for a moment before she extended her spiritual sense. Sure enough, the aura of the 4th level of Spirit Gathering stage emanated from the taller figure.
¡°Alright, give me your token. I¡¯ll change it to a new one for outer disciples.¡±
When new disciples failed to reach the 1st level of the Spirit Gathering stage within a month of recruitment, they were automatically demoted to handyman status without needing to wait for the annual assessment. However, if they managed to reach the 4th level before turning twenty, they could temporarily regain the status of an outer disciple.
Of course, they would still need to prove themselves during the assessment later.
Lyra obediently handed over her sect token, and Talia began the process of transferring the information. A faint glow surrounded her fingers as she imprinted the updated data onto a new token. A moment later, she handed it back to Lyra along with a small pouch.
¡°Fenira, right? Here is your new token and your monthly resources. I¡¯ve also included the location of your residence in the token. The rent will be five spirit stones per month, which I¡¯ve already deducted from your resources.¡±
Lyra accepted the items with both hands, bowing slightly in gratitude.
¡°Thank you.¡±
She couldn¡¯t help but think that the sect¡¯s security seemed surprisingly lax. It was disturbingly easy to usurp someone¡¯s identity. The thought settled heavily in her mind as she clutched her new token.
This realization only solidified her suspicion that the Qadistu clan had likely infiltrated the Frostfire Sect long ago. Perhaps it wasn¡¯t just the Frostfire Sect; even the Immortal Alliance itself might have been compromised. Yet, amidst these worrying thoughts, Lyra felt a small sense of relief. Fortunately, Senior Agrat did not seem to be her enemy.
Talia glanced between the two figures again, her curiosity barely hidden. She hesitated as if she wanted to ask something but ultimately decided against it. Instead, she offered a polite smile.
¡°Anything else?¡±
Rinne shook her head.
¡°No. That will be all.¡±
With that, the pair turned and left the hall, walking toward the location of Lyra¡¯s new home as indicated on the token. The path was quiet, but tension hung in the air.
On the way, Lyra finally broke the silence.
¡°Thank you, Senior. After I return to the inner gate, I will repay your kindness.¡±
Rinne didn¡¯t respond immediately. Instead, she asked,
¡°What will you do after this?¡±
Even without asking, Rinne could already guess the likely scenarios Lyra would pursue. She simply hoped that whatever path Lyra chose, it wouldn¡¯t lead to her untimely death. After all, it would be a pity if someone she saved ended up dying anyway.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.
Lyra hesitated for a moment before answering, her tone filled with determination.
¡°First, I want to uncover my sister, Celia¡¯s conspiracy and prove my innocence to my father, Elder Zhelar. Ultimately, I aim to restore my inner disciple status.¡±
She had briefly considered seeking Agrat¡¯s assistance to collect evidence. With the power of the Qadistu clan, it likely wouldn¡¯t require much effort. However, Lyra wasn¡¯t sure how to broach the subject. She had nothing of value to offer as compensation and feared making the wrong impression.
However, before she could do that, Rinne¡¯s words ruthlessly denied her plan.
¡°Your plan won¡¯t work.¡±
Lyra stopped in her tracks, staring at Rinne in shock. ¡°Why not?¡±
Meanwhile, Rinne didn¡¯t stop. She continued walking, while voicing her view on this matter.
¡°Celia Zhelar is Elder Zhelar¡¯s only daughter. Even if she¡¯s in the wrong, he¡¯ll do everything to protect her. In fact, he already knows you¡¯re innocent but still chose to sacrifice you. If you continue with your plan, you¡¯ll likely be accused of another crime¡ªor worse, assassinated.¡±
From Elder Zhelar¡¯s memories, Rinne could easily conclude that he loved his late companion dearly. Now that she was gone, their daughter, Celia, was a cherished memento of her memory. To him, Celia¡¯s importance was incomparable, far exceeding that of an adopted daughter.
Lyra¡¯s steps faltered, her voice trembling as she murmured,
¡°No, that can¡¯t be true. Father is always wise and just¡¡±
She clenched her fists, her mind a chaotic storm of denial and despair.
Rinne glanced at her briefly but didn¡¯t press further. If it were Rinne in her second life, she would have ruthlessly advised Lyra to simply assassinate Celia and mask it as an accident or something. In that way, Elder Zhelar would have no one else to love other than Lyra. But, of course, she couldn¡¯t give such heartless advice now.
Rinne sighed, her breath forming a faint mist in the frigid air. She turned to Lyra and spoke with a calm yet detached tone.
¡°We¡¯re almost there. That should be your new home.¡±
She pointed toward a modest house nestled among a row of similar snow-covered dwellings.
The houses were small and unassuming, much like the one Rinne had rented when she first joined the sect. A thin layer of frost clung to the structures, giving the area an austere beauty.
¡°You can think it through carefully later. But whatever you decide to do, don¡¯t forget that you¡¯re an injured person right now.¡±
Her voice held no judgment, only a straightforward reminder of Lyra¡¯s current vulnerability. Without waiting for a response, Rinne gave a slight nod and turned to leave.
Lyra stood there for a moment, watching her savior¡¯s figure recede into the distance. Her thoughts swirled chaotically, a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty. She held the token tightly in her hand, the cold feeling of the token was a stark reminder of her newfound status.
¡°Thank you,¡±
She whispered softly, even though Rinne was already out of sight.
???
It was already afternoon when Rinne arrived at her atelier. Without wasting any time, she retrieved her spatial bag and began reorganizing and counting the gains she had accumulated throughout the day.
First, there were several seeds that she had purchased from Talia. Rinne immediately planted them, carefully allocating space in her greenhouse. Her plant collection had expanded significantly, and now the second floor of the greenhouse was officially in use. The satisfaction of seeing her collection grow brought a faint smile to her face.
Next, there were a few broken items, which she decided to store for now. These items would be melted down and repurposed at a later time, but today wasn¡¯t the day for such tasks.
Then came the eleven complete "puppet materials" she had collected. These were particularly important. Rinne stripped each of them methodically and placed them in basins filled with a special liquid. The solution was designed to plasticize the bodies, making them moldable and suitable for crafting puppets. They would need to soak for a few weeks before they could be used.
Finally, there was the most significant gain of the day: Lyra¡¯s inner disciple robe and inner disciple token. Recalling Lyra¡¯s face, Rinne couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of guilt.
"Actually, you don¡¯t have to thank me, since I also took something good from you. In fact, it should be me who¡¯s saying thank you."
But, of course, Lyra wasn¡¯t there to hear her silent confession.
Rinne began cleaning the robe, carefully removing the blood and dirt until it looked as pristine as the day it was first issued. She tried the robe on, activating its adjustment feature. Instantly, the fabric shifted, fitting her body perfectly. She admired the result for a moment before moving on to the token.
Since she had already manipulated the information in a sect token once, doing it a second time was a straightforward process. Rinne erased Lyra¡¯s spiritual imprint and personal details, replacing all of it with her own information. She scrutinized the token in her hand, now engraved with her identity.
A small smile crept onto her lips. This could be considered as her unofficial advancement to inner disciple, albeit through illegal means. There was no need to wait for the annual assessment and struggle to reach a certain ranking in the said assessment. The token was her shortcut.
"All that remains is to turn the illegal into legal."
Staying as an outer disciple was certainly more stable, but the resources were undeniably skewed in favor of inner disciples and those of higher ranks. With the token, all that remained was to legitimize her new identity within the sect.
The token bore the sword crest of Sword Peak, a clear indication of Lyra¡¯s former affiliation. Rinne already had a plan in place: she would report a transfer to Alchemy Peak instead. This move would make it easier for her to gather ingredients for her medicinal baths and future experiments.
As for her atelier, Rinne decided to extend the rent for another six months.
The items stored there were too numerous and cumbersome to move at present. There was no urgency to relocate. For now, she would only need to bring her cauldron and a few essential solutions.
Once she acquired a spatial ring, which could store items far more efficiently than her current spatial bag, she¡¯d return to collect everything in one trip. Satisfied with her plans, Rinne placed the token into her robe¡¯s pocket.
She cast one last glance around the room before settling out.
Chapter 031 – Settling in Alchemy Peak
After leaving her atelier, Rinne made her way to one of the many gates leading to the inner sect.
These gates, spread across the sect''s vast territory, provided access to the inner sanctum for authorized disciples. Rinne approached the nearest gate, her eyes narrowing as she examined the elaborate structure.
The shimmering formation over the passageway exuded a powerful spiritual energy, and flanking the entrance were two enormous statues. Each statue held a colossal halberd, their faces expressionless yet imposing.
These were the Inner Gate Keepers, ancient constructs designed to protect the sanctity of the inner sect.
As she drew closer, the statues suddenly came to life. Their eyes glowed with an icy blue light, and with a synchronized motion, they crossed their halberds, creating an unyielding barrier. The air around the gate grew heavy with an oppressive spiritual pressure, forcing Rinne to stop in her tracks.
Her heart skipped a beat, but she quickly steadied herself. Without hesitation, she reached into her robe and retrieved the inner disciple token she had painstakingly prepared. Holding it out in front of her, she watched as the token emitted a faint glow, responding to the formation¡¯s probing energy.
After a tense moment, the light in the statues¡¯ eyes dimmed, and they retracted their halberds. The spiritual pressure lifted, and the gateway opened, granting her passage.
Rinne couldn¡¯t help but comment under her breath,
''In the end, they¡¯re just dead statues.''
The statues lacked the ability to think, their sole function was to recognize the token¡¯s authority. To them, the holder of a valid token was deemed worthy of entry, with no questions asked or further considerations given.
Once inside, Rinne paused to assess her next move.
She glanced at her masked reflection in a nearby polished stone surface and considered her appearance. The mask had served her well in maintaining anonymity, but here in the inner sect, it could attract unnecessary attention. Inner disciples were expected to be identifiable, and wearing a mask would likely raise questions.
She pondered using a disguise technique but quickly dismissed the idea. Any low-level technique could easily be seen through by the elders or experienced disciples. While her Phantom Mirage Art was a high-level technique capable of fooling even seasoned cultivators, her current cultivation level was too low to sustain it effectively.
After thinking for a moment, she took off the mask, tucking it away into her spatial bag.
''If I¡¯m going to start anew, I might as well do it openly,''
Passing further into the inner sect, Rinne¡¯s senses were immediately overwhelmed by the difference in atmosphere.
The spiritual energy here was dense and invigorating, filling her with a subtle but noticeable vitality. Unlike the outer sect, where the biting cold was ever-present, the chill here was tempered, making the environment much more comfortable.
Rinne couldn''t help but let out a sigh.
''No wonder the cultivation levels of inner disciples are higher.''
With conditions like these, their progress would naturally be faster. Meditating for one day here seemed to be almost the same as meditating for ten days or more in the outer sect.
Unlike the outer sect area which seemed quiet, the inner sect area was bustling with activity.
Disciples strolled along the paths, their robes marking their various affiliations and peaks. Foundation Establishment stage cultivators flew overhead on their swords, moving gracefully between the peaks. Small groups gathered near ornate pavilions, engaged in animated discussions or exchanging resources. The sense of purpose and competition was palpable.
Many of the young disciples she saw walking nearby appeared to be around her age. They were likely those recruited as inner disciples from the start. Rinne had no intention of getting along with them, her focus entirely on her own goals.
Rinne decided to wait for a bit until sunset, watching from a secluded corner as the disciples gradually dispersed to their respective residences. Once the main roads were quieter, she resumed her journey. The inner sect was a new and unfamiliar territory, and she had no intention of drawing attention to herself. Her goal was clear: reach Alchemy Peak unnoticed.
Navigating through the sect, she marveled at the grandeur around her. The buildings were larger and more refined than those in the outer sect, and the air carried a faint hum of spiritual energy, thanks to the powerful formations embedded within the area.
Finally, the towering Alchemy Peak came into view.
Each peak in the sect was equivalent to a mountain, and Alchemy Peak was no exception. Rinne began her ascent, climbing the long stone steps that wound their way up the mountain. The journey was arduous but invigorating, the dense spiritual energy providing her with a subtle boost.
By the time she reached the summit, the imposing structure at the peak, known as the Alchemy Tower, loomed before her. Its unique architecture stood out, adorned with intricate carvings of plants and cauldrons. A faint herbal fragrance wafted through the air, signifying of the alchemical experiments conducted within.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
Rinne stopped for a moment, taking in the sight. Her lips curled into a faint smile as she adjusted her robe.
???
With firm resolve, Rinne stepped into the Alchemy Tower.
Disciples in robes embroidered with intricate alchemical symbols moved about, some engrossed in discussions while others carried materials to and from various rooms. Shelves lined the walls, filled with jars and containers of ingredients, their labels neatly inscribed with the names of rare and common herbs alike.
Her presence went mostly unnoticed as she approached a counter situated near the center of the hall. Behind it stood a middle-aged man with sharp eyes and a calm demeanor, his robe denoting his position as a managing elder of the Alchemy Peak. He was reviewing a stack of scrolls when Rinne arrived.
Clearing her throat lightly, she spoke.
"Elder, I am here to request a transfer from Sword Peak to Alchemy Peak."
The old man looked up, his gaze briefly glancing at her.
Looking at her small stature, she looked like a new inner disciple who had just been recruited a month ago. Just a little girl who was still at level 1 of the Spirit Gathering stage. What bad things could this little girl do?
Without thinking much, he nodded.
"Transfers are not uncommon. Present your token and state your reasons."
It was not unusual for disciples to shift peaks when they find their initial choice unsuitable. Such changes can arise from a lack of compatibility with the teachings, unresolved conflicts, or simply a reassessment of one''s path.
Rinne handed over the token she had meticulously prepared, the glow of its spiritual imprint was faint but flawless.
"I have realized that my talents lie more in alchemy than in the sword arts. I believe I can contribute more effectively here."
The elder studied the token carefully, his fingers brushing over its surface to verify its authenticity.
The token was confirmed to be an authentic inner disciple token made by the Frostfire Sect with a sword crest printed on it, indicating a Sword Peak disciple token.
Finding no faults, he nodded again.
"Very well, follow me."
He gestured for her to follow, leading her to a smaller, quieter room adjacent to the main hall.
Inside, a formation glowed faintly on the floor, its intricate runes pulsating with energy. A desk and a few chairs occupied one corner of the room, along with shelves holding ledgers and scrolls.
"Stand in the center of the formation, this will finalize the transfer by re-registering your token under Alchemy Peak''s records. Once completed, you will be officially recognized as a disciple of this peak."
The elder instructed, retrieving a small crystalline orb from a drawer.
Rinne complied, stepping into the formation. As the elder activated it, threads of light extended from the formation to envelop her token. The orb in the elder''s hand glowed in response, and she felt a subtle energy ripple through the room. The process was seamless, and within moments, the light dimmed.
"It is done, your details are now registered with Alchemy Peak. Be aware of the rules and abide by them."
The elder announced as he handing the token back to her.
Rinne examined the token. It had transformed during the process, the Sword Peak crest replaced with the intricate crest of Alchemy Peak. The token now gleamed with a renewed luster, symbolizing her new affiliation.
"Thank you, Elder,"
Rinne replied, bowing respectfully.
Now she could breathe a sigh of relief. She had successfully turned her illegal token into a legal one, making her a true inner disciple of Alchemy Peak. The resources and opportunities here were leagues ahead of what she had access to at the outer sect. With this new affiliation, her plans could proceed more effectively.
He gave her a measured look.
"Your quarters will be assigned shortly. You are free to explore the facilities, but do not disturb ongoing experiments. Should you require guidance, seek out Senior Disciple Hiran. He oversees the orientation of new disciples."
Rinne nodded and clutching her token tightly. Her transfer had gone smoother than expected.
With the most difficult problem solved, now all that was left was the housing problem. Rinne would absolutely not accept a place where she had to live with other people.
"Elder, I would prefer to rent a house instead of staying in the tower. Also, I have not taken my monthly resources yet and would like to do so here. I plan to use part of those resources for the rent."
Hearing her words, the elder raised an eyebrow, then gestured for her to follow him back to the counter. Stepping back into the main hall, she allowed herself to relax for a moment, before being called by the elder.
Returning to the counter, the elder took out a pouch and handed it to Rinne.
"This is your monthly allocation."
Rinne opened the pouch and inspected its contents.
It was a low-level spatial pouch, crafted from the stomach skin of a lake-swallowing toad, similar to her spatial bag. Inside were 100 mid-grade spirit stones, 20 Spirit Gathering Pills, 20 Fasting Pills, and 20 Healing Pills. The resources for inner disciples are certainly way much better than the resources for outer disciples.
Rinne''s eyes lingered on the spatial pouch itself. It was a free gift, and there were no rules forbidding its reuse. Perhaps low-level spatial bags were truly insignificant. This was probably why nobody asked her to return the spatial bag that was "lent" to her in the recruitment trial.
Next, the elder pulled out a booklet and spread it open on the counter.
"These are the available houses for rent. Choose the one you prefer."
Rinne read the booklet, she took her time to observe the various house information on each page.
After a while, her eyes fell on a simple house but it was much better than the house she rented in the outer sect area. Plus, its remote location meant that not many people passed by. The monthly rent for this house was 10 mid-grade spirit stones, which she thought was still very affordable.
Without thinking much longer, she decided this house was the right one for her.
"I will take this one."
The elder made a note in his ledger and nodded.
"Hand me your token and the payment."
Rinne handed over the token and 10 mid-grade spirit stones without hesitation.
Receiving the payment, the elder nodded. Without further ado, he inscribed the details of the house, along with the formation key, onto the token. A subtle hum vibrated from the token as the information was embedded.
Once he was done, he returned the token to her.
"Your token now contains the details of your rented house. The formation key is embedded within, so only you can access it."
Rinne bowed slightly as she accepted the token.
"Thank you, Elder."
With her new token and resources in hand, Rinne stepped out of the Alchemy Tower. Adjusting her hood, she looked around. The night had fallen, and the road was devoid of people. She made her way toward her new house.
It was time for Rinne to create her second atelier.
Chapter 032 – Second Atelier
It didn¡¯t take long for Rinne to arrive at her new house.
The house was a larger house compared to the one she rented in the outer sect area. It consisted of two connected buildings¡ªone small and one large¡ªwith rounded roofs like igloos, and the entire building made of an unknown material. The unique architecture gave the house a distinct charm.
The property included a courtyard that could be used to grow plants and herbs. Unlike the rented planting lands in the outer sect area, which were essentially exploitative as planters had to hand over 70% of the harvest to the sect, this courtyard came with no such obligations. This was one of the privileges of being an inner disciple renting a house in the inner sect area. However, the types of plants that could be cultivated here were still somewhat limited.
Using her token, Rinne entered the house.
She began by inspecting the interior, ensuring everything was in order. The spacious rooms and thoughtful layout exceeded her expectations. Once satisfied, she sat down and accessed the Soul Library to start designing a new atelier formation. However, as she sketched out her ideas, her mind couldn''t help but wandered to her first atelier in the outer sect area.
She paused, her virtual pen hovering over the blueprint.
"That atelier is already well-equipped, I spent so much effort setting it up. Just abandoning it... It feels like such a waste to throw it all away..."
The thought lingered, and she began reasoning with herself.
But suddenly, an idea sparked, and her eyes lit up.
"Wait, why not keep them both?"
Her identity as an outer disciple wasn¡¯t erased, and she still possessed her outer disciple token. Moreover, the puppets she was working on would be ready in a few weeks, adding another layer of utility to her plan.
She tapped her pen against the table.
The idea began to take shape in her mind¡ªa dual-role strategy. The masked Rinne could continue operating in the outer sect, while the real Rinne would focus on her role as an inner disciple of Alchemy Peak.
With renewed focus, Rinne revised her design plans. She decided not only to establish a second atelier but also to create a passageway between the two ateliers. In other words, a teleportation circle.
However, she knew that a simple teleportation circle wouldn¡¯t suffice. Unless the elders¡¯ spiritual senses were conveniently crippled, they would undoubtedly detect the spatial fluctuations, leading to significant trouble. She concluded that a special isolation formation would be necessary to mask the spatial movement entirely.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
''A teleportation circle would be good, but it must be undetectable by the elders'' spiritual senses.''
With these considerations in mind, Rinne plunged back into her work, meticulously crafting the designs for her ambitious project. She took a significant amount of time perfecting the designs of her formation in the Soul Library. However, in the real world, only a few moments had passed.
Her ability to compress extensive mental work into mere seconds was both a blessing and a curse. As expected, a familiar dull ache started to throb in her temples, the price of intense mental exertion.
She sighed and steadied her breathing, letting her discomfort subside a little. Without delay, she retrieved a formation plate, containing the Array Creation Formation from her spatial bag. Holding it in her hands, she activated it, infusing it with spiritual energy.
The moment the formation activated, the room began to distort, as if the very fabric of space was bending to her will. The transformation process was not instantaneous. Minute by minute, the formation consumed an immense amount of energy, its complexity far surpassing her expectations. What she assumed would take only a few hours stretched into a grueling twelve-hour ordeal.
Throughout this time, Rinne sat cross-legged in the center of the room, enduring a constant wave of mental strain. Her head pounded as if a storm was raging within her mind. She gritted her teeth and channeled her spiritual energy according to the Hibiscus Rebirth Tempering Art, which helped reduce the pain to a manageable level. Still, the process was far from pleasant.
When the formation¡¯s glow finally dimmed, signaling its completion, Rinne opened her eyes. Her breath came in shallow gasps, and sweat drenched her robes. Yet, the sight before her was worth every ounce of effort.
The modest house she had initially entered was no more. In its place stood a structure reminiscent of a palace. The interior was vast and intricately designed, with soaring ceilings, smooth surfaces glowing faintly with embedded spiritual runes, and interconnected chambers tailored for her alchemy and crafting pursuits. Every detail aligned perfectly with the vision she had conceptualized.
Thanks to the high concentration of spiritual energy in the inner sect area, especially at Alchemy Peak, Rinne could achieve far more than she ever could in the outer sect.
She intended to make this atelier her base of operations¡ªa center for alchemy, metal refining, greenhouse cultivation, and countless other experiments. Her first atelier in the outer sect, by comparison, would only need to sustain basic functions to maintain its space. This division of purpose suited her dual-role strategy perfectly.
One of the new rooms was dedicated to housing a medium-sized teleportation circle, sufficient for a single person to traverse. However, the circle remained inactive as it required a second node to function¡ªsomething Rinne planned to install in her first atelier later.
Rinne exhaled slowly, allowing a rare smile to tug at the corners of her lips.
"Finally,"
She murmured with a voice soft but filled with satisfaction.
Shaking off her fatigue, Rinne lay down on the floor. Despite the physical toll, she felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. For now, she decided to rest. There would be many things to do tomorrow, and she needed her full strength to face them.
But as she glanced around her new atelier, Rinne couldn¡¯t help but feel a spark of excitement.