Elder's Summons

The news that Shen Hao, with his Perfected Qi Refining Third Layer cultivation, had defeated Li Wei at Early Qi Refining Fourth Layer spread like wings through Qingyun Peak.

This news was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, stirring up a massive uproar and shocking every Inner Sect Disciple. A single-layer gap in the Qi Refining Stage might seem small, but in truth it was worlds apart—the density of Spiritual Energy and the mastery over one's cultivation method were as different as clouds and mud. That Shen Hao could cross realms and win proved his strength far exceeded his peers. In no time, Shen Hao's name became the hottest topic on Qingyun Peak; both new and veteran disciples were buzzing about this youth who had burst onto the scene.

That day, Shen Hao was inside his room cultivating the Meridian Tempering Art. He sat cross-legged on the Jade Bed, hands forming a seal, guiding the Spiritual Energy within him to slowly wash through the Meridians of his limbs and torso. Where the energy passed, his meridians tingled with a numbing sensation, growing tougher and wider. Outside, the sunlight was just right, streaming through the window lattice and casting light on his focused profile.

Suddenly, he heard slow, steady footsteps outside the door. The sound drew closer and stopped right at his room. Shen Hao frowned, halting his cultivation, a flicker of doubt in his mind. He knew few people on Qingyun Peak—aside from Zhang Shan, almost no one came looking for him.

He rose, walked to the door, and opened it.

Standing there was an old man in a Green Daoist Robe. His hair and beard were pure white, like silver threads, neatly combed. His complexion was ruddy, his face wore a kind smile, and his eyes were deep as an ancient well, carrying the weight of years. His aura was steady, heavy as a mountain, giving an unfathomable impression.

Shen Hao's heart jolted. He quickly bowed and said respectfully, "Disciple Shen Hao greets the Elder." He could clearly sense that this Old Man's cultivation was at least at the Foundation Establishment Realm—far beyond his reach. Every elder of the inner sect was a pillar of the sect, powerful and highly esteemed.

The old man smiled and waved a hand, his voice gentle: "No need for such formality. This Old Man is the Transmission Elder of the inner sect, surnamed Chen. I came today because I have something to discuss with you."

"Elder, please come in." Shen Hao stepped aside, ushering Elder Chen into the room, then quickly fetched a Stone Table and respectfully invited Elder Chen to sit.

Elder Chen entered, his gaze sweeping over the Ziyang Inner Sect Basic Qi Cultivation Art and Meridian Tempering Art on the stone table. A glint of approval flashed in his eyes, and he nodded with satisfaction: "Not bad. Young as you are, quite diligent. These days, most young people are restless and impatient; it's rare to find one who can settle down and train hard."

He paused, then continued, "I've heard about your victory over Li Wei. To defeat a cultivator at Early Qi Refining Fourth Layer with Perfected Qi Refining Third Layer—that talent and strength are impressive. Especially your footwork and control over Spiritual Energy; they far surpass your peers. You have great potential."

Shen Hao said modestly, "Elder flatters me. Disciple only won by luck. Senior Brother Li was careless for a moment; it's not that my strength truly surpasses his."

Elder Chen smiled and waved a hand, clearly unconvinced by his humility: "Don't sell yourself short. I can see your ability. Your footwork and sword techniques are solid, with no flashy tricks, and your Spiritual Energy is much denser than others at your stage. These are real skills. Train hard, and one day you'll become a pillar of our Ziyang Sect."

With that, Elder Chen pulled a thin booklet from his robe and handed it to Shen Hao. The booklet was wrapped in blue silk, and on it were three ancient characters—Flowing Cloud Steps.

"This Flowing Cloud Steps is a Mid-grade Cultivation Method for footwork," Elder Chen said slowly. "Once you cultivate it, your movement speed will increase by at least fifty percent. I saw you have a good grasp of footwork—a natural talent for it—so I'm giving you this method. I hope you'll make good use of it and not waste this opportunity."

Shen Hao's heart surged with joy as he took the Flowing Cloud Steps. It felt cool to the touch. A Mid-grade Cultivation Method! This was something every Inner Sect Disciple dreamed of! The Basic Footwork Technique he had grasped before was nothing but a crude, unranked method—compared to Flowing Cloud Steps, it was like mud versus clouds. To him, this was a tremendous stroke of luck. He quickly bowed and said solemnly, "Thank you for your kindness, Elder! Disciple will train diligently and live up to your expectations!"

Elder Chen nodded, a gratified smile on his face: "Alright, I won't disturb your cultivation any longer. Remember, the path of immortality is long and arduous. Talent matters, but diligence and perseverance are what carry you further. Stay humble, stay focused, and don't let external things distract you."

With that, Elder Chen swept his sleeve and left, his figure drifting away like a gentle breeze, soon vanishing from Shen Hao's sight.

Shen Hao clutched the Flowing Cloud Steps in his hand, his heart brimming with excitement. He couldn't wait to open the booklet and pore over it. The content of Flowing Cloud Steps was exquisitely refined, every word a gem—far deeper than his previous Basic Footwork Technique. It emphasized "flowing like clouds, shifting like water, ever-changing and unpredictable." Once cultivated, his movements would be as graceful as drifting clouds, his steps as fluid as running water, hard to read. It would not only boost his speed but also let him dodge enemy attacks in battle and seize the initiative.

"What a fine method!" Shen Hao praised inwardly. With this Flowing Cloud Steps, his movement speed would surely reach a new level. His combat ability would soar as well.

He gripped the Flowing Cloud Steps tightly, a bright light shining in his eyes. He knew this opportunity was hard-won—a sign of Elder Chen's recognition. He would not betray that trust. He would master Flowing Cloud Steps, raise his strength quickly, and bring honor to the sect.