Chapter 2

C2 – Elite Disciples

Peng Gengkun was well aware of the stark differences between the four realms of a Warrior. Warriors at the Power Refining Stage could only enhance their physical strength and toughen their bones and flesh. In contrast, those at the Qi Refining Stage were capable of condensing Innate Astral Qi, allowing them to harm enemies in unseen ways.

Soul Refining Stage Warriors could solidify their Martial Soul, significantly amplifying the potency of their Martial Arts techniques. The most formidable were the Intent Refining Stage Warriors, who could manifest Martial True Intent, rendering them virtually unstoppable.nove(l)bi(n.)com

Now, Peng Gengkun had made a monumental leap from the Power Refining Stage straight into the Qi Refining Stage!

“I lack a Qi Sea in this body, which should have made it impossible to advance to the Qi Refining Stage. But now, I’ve actually managed to force my way through! This system is incredibly powerful!” he exclaimed.

Once the initial rush of excitement subsided, Peng Gengkun’s thoughts turned pragmatic.

“Unfortunately, the points gained from devouring mundane items aren’t sufficient. To level up quickly, I need to consume items imbued with Spiritual Energy. But where can I find such treasures?”

The jade pendant was unique, and Peng Gengkun knew he couldn’t simply conjure a second one. But then, a realization struck him like a bolt of lightning.

“That’s it! I’m now a Qi Refining Stage Warrior! As per the Flying Cloud Sect’s regulations, I’m eligible for promotion from an Outer Sect disciple to an elite disciple, with access to all the associated privileges! Elite disciples are entitled to monthly supplies!”

With this thought, Peng Gengkun rose to his feet, flung open the door, and strode out of his room with newfound purpose.

Previously, Peng Gengkun’s insufficient talent had prevented him from reaching the Qi Refining Stage, even after being crippled by Wei Pengxing, which meant he missed out on the benefits reserved for elite disciples. But now, equipped with the Leviathan-roc Devouring System, he had broken through to the Qi Refining Stage in one fell swoop, qualifying him for the elite status.

Guided by his memories, Peng Gengkun made his way to the Hall of Elite Disciples. From a distance, he could see a throng of disciples—some were there for the spectacle, while others, like him, were on the cusp of becoming elite disciples themselves.

Every individual who ascended to the rank of elite disciple was met with the envious stares of those in the Outer Sect.

“It makes sense when you think about it,” Peng Gengkun mused. “Outer Sect disciples have to fulfill all sorts of tasks for the sect and dedicate themselves to their cultivation before they even get a chance at promotion. How could they possibly measure up to an elite disciple? But now, I’m one of them!”

Upon entering the Hall of Elite Disciples, Peng Gengkun caught the brief attention of a Flying Cloud Sect Elder. However, the Elder seemed largely indifferent to his presence.

It was clear that the Elder had witnessed the recent altercation but chose not to intervene. Peng Gengkun understood that the Elders of the Flying Cloud Sect didn’t concern themselves with such matters. Both the Elder and the Sect Master believed that combat between disciples served to hone their fighting spirit.

Having demonstrated his formidable cultivation level, Peng Gengkun had proven himself deserving of the elite disciple status, unlike Xiong Limong, who was just an Outer Sect disciple.

Standing before the Elder, Peng Gengkun presented his intentions and identity. The Elder gave a slight nod and spoke, “Your cultivation prowess is evident. You certainly qualify as an elite disciple. Here is your elite disciple identity token. With this token, you are recognized as an elite disciple. You are entitled to five Spirit Stones each month, and you have access to the sect’s Cultivation Room for twenty hours monthly.”

After a brief pause, the Elder continued, “Additionally, as an elite disciple, you are entitled to practice the Martial Arts of the Flying Cloud Sect. Feel free to visit the library and select the Martial Arts that suits you best.”

Peng Gengkun nodded in gratitude to the Elder, took the items, and departed from the Hall of Elite Disciples.

Spirit Stones, infused with Spiritual Energy, were essential for Warriors in this world to advance their cultivation. Warriors needed to draw upon the power within Spirit Stones for their practice. They could also enhance their cultivation in the Cultivation Room.

Many prestigious sects boasted such Cultivation Rooms. These rooms, connected to the ley lines of the earth, drew in the rich Spiritual Energy from the planet’s core, providing an optimal environment for Warriors to refine their skills.

Peng Gengkun had ascended to the rank of elite disciple. He now had the privilege to train in the Cultivation Room for ten solid hours and was entitled to five Spirit Stones.

“With these resources, I shouldn’t have to worry about advancing to the next level for quite some time. Now, it’s time to head to the library and select a Martial Arts technique!”

As Peng Gengkun mulled over his plans, he was about to set out when a wave of noise erupted from the Outer Sect disciples just outside the hall.

A young master emerged from the throng.

Peng Gengkun instinctively tightened his grip into a fist.

“To think I’d run into Wei Pengxing here! But now that I’ve been promoted to an elite disciple, there’s no reason for me to fear him!”