Entering the Path of Breath, the First Stirrings of Origin Qi

The night faded, and the horizon began to glow with a pale, fish-belly white.

Lin Fan slowly emerged from the "half-asleep, half-awake" state of deep meditation and opened his eyes.

A sliver of morning light pierced through the gaps in the window lattice, casting a long, thin patch of light onto the floor. The furnishings in the room remained as simple as ever, but for some reason, they appeared exceptionally clear to Lin Fan—the grain on the wooden table, the cobwebs in the corner, and even the dust motes floating in the air were all visible in minute detail.

He looked down at his hands.

The skin was the same, and the calluses on his palms were still hard, but... it felt different.

An indescribable sense of "transparency" emanated from his limbs and bones, as if the soreness and fatigue that had been lodged deep within his muscles last night had been washed away by some invisible force. Although he hadn't fully recovered, it was far better than the feeling of his "body falling apart" that he usually experienced upon waking in the morning.

"Is this the effect of 'replacing sleep with breathing'?"

Lin Fan's heart stirred, and he summoned his panel.

[Character: Lin Fan]

[Age: 16]

[Realm: Unranked (Quasi-Martial Apprentice)]

[Lifespan: 100 years]

[Strength: 18(+3)] (Under weight-bearing state)

[Defense: 15(+2)]

[Speed: 16(+2)]

[Spirit: 14(+1)]

[Comprehension: 15]

[Bone Structure: 18]

[Vital Energy: 0/100 (Not yet unlocked)]

[Skill Points: 0]

[Cultivation Method: Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized Version · Entry 0/100)]

[Martial Arts: Basic Fist Technique (Mastery 625/1000), Basic Footwork (Proficient 312/500), Iron Body Skill (Mastery 88/1000), Gale Sword Technique (Entry 12/100)]

[Life Skills: Weight-Bearing Walking (Proficient 210/500), Cargo Handling (Proficient 189/500)]

[Special Status: Soul Fusion Rate 72.4% (Unstable) (+0.1%), Mild Muscle Fatigue (Recovering)]

Over the course of a single night, his Spirit had increased by one point, and his Soul Fusion Rate had risen by 0.1%.

More importantly, the Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique had already been recorded into the system as a cultivation method. Although its proficiency was still at zero, the "Optimized Version" tag next to it filled him with anticipation.

"Optimized version... what's the difference from the original?"

He focused his mind on the line for the Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique, and the detailed description immediately expanded:

[Cultivation Method: Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized Version)]

[Grade: Mortal Tier Low Grade (After system optimization, the actual effect is close to Mortal Tier Mid Grade)]

[Current Realm: Entry (0/100)]

[Effect: Induce Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy into the body through a specific breathing rhythm, converting it into Origin Energy to nourish the physical body and restore stamina.]

[System Optimization Highlights:]

1. Breathing Rhythm Adjustment: Optimized based on the host's lung capacity and chest structure; inhalation depth increased by 15%, exhalation efficiency increased by 20%.

2. Origin Energy Circulation Route Optimization: Bypasses several minor meridian blockages caused by the host's long-term heavy load training, detouring through more unobstructed collateral channels.

3. Soul Synergy Scheme: Initial synchronization of breathing rhythm with brainwave frequency; can slowly promote soul fusion during cultivation.

4. Fatigue Recovery Enhancement: Optimized the penetration path of Origin Energy into muscle tissue; recovery efficiency +30%.

[Cultivation Advice: Cultivation is most effective in the early morning and at the Zi hour (when Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy is more active); efficiency can be improved by using auxiliary items such as Clear Heart Grass or Calming Incense; take a full day of rest after every three days of cultivation to avoid excessive soul strain.]

After reading the description, Lin Fan took a deep breath.

The effects of the system's optimization were even more comprehensive than he had imagined. It not only improved cultivation efficiency but also took his body's actual condition into account—those "minor meridian blockages" were likely hidden injuries left behind by years of malnutrition and overwork.

"Let's test the effects first."

Lin Fan didn't rush to get out of bed. Instead, he sat cross-legged again and, following the breathing rhythm optimized by the system, began his first formal cultivation session of the day.

"Inhale... deep, slow, steady..."

He closed his eyes and sank his focus into his body.

Unlike the past, where he had only mechanically imitated the breathing rhythm, this time, Lin Fan could clearly "perceive" the entire process of air entering his nasal cavity, passing through his trachea, and settling into his lungs. The extent of his lung expansion, the force of his diaphragm pressing down, and even the minute sensations of his alveoli relaxing were as clear as lines on his palm.

This was a very wondrous state.

It was as if his consciousness could "look inward." Although it was still very blurry, he could indeed sense some changes within his body.

As his breathing rhythm gradually stabilized, an even more wondrous sensation emerged.

At first, it was just a slight coolness on the surface of his skin, like a morning breeze blowing past. But soon, this coolness began to permeate—drilling in through his pores and spreading bit by bit into his body along the subtle vessels beneath his skin.

It was icy, but not bone-chilling; instead, it carried a refreshing vitality.

"Is this... the spiritual energy of heaven and earth?"

Lin Fan's mind jolted, his breathing rhythm nearly disrupted. He quickly reined in his stray thoughts and continued to maintain a steady, rhythmic inhalation and exhalation.

More coolness surged in from all directions, seeping into his body through every pore of his skin. Like countless tiny streams, they wove between his flesh and muscle, finally converging near the Tanzhong Acupoint in his chest—according to the records in the Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique, this was the embryonic form of the Sea of Qi, the first hub for a martial artist to store Origin Energy.

The streams gathered, but they did not stop; instead, they began to flow slowly along a specific path.

This path was the "Origin Energy Circulation Route" optimized by the system.

Starting from the Tanzhong Acupoint, it ascended to the throat, branched into both arms, and flowed along the meridians on the inner side of the arms toward the palms. Another branch descended from the Tanzhong Acupoint, passed the navel, branched into both legs, and flowed along the inner sides of the legs toward the soles of the feet. A third branch moved backward from the Tanzhong Acupoint, slowly climbing along the spine until it reached the vicinity of the Yuzhen Acupoint at the back of the head.

The three routes formed a rough cycle.

The coolness—Lin Fan now knew this was the "Origin Energy" that had been preliminarily converted—flowed slowly through these three routes. Wherever it passed, the soreness and swelling in his muscles noticeably eased, as if parched earth had been nourished by rain.

[Basic Breathing Technique Proficiency +1]
[Origin Energy +0.1]

The system panel popped up.

Lin Fan felt a surge of joy, but he did not lose focus, continuing to maintain his breathing.

Time ticked by, second by second.

The sky outside the window grew brighter. The crowing of roosters and the barking of dogs drifted from afar; the slums were beginning to wake up.

Lin Fan, however, remained immersed in the wondrous sensation of that "internal circulation." He could feel that as the Origin Energy flowed through his body again and again, his physical state was slowly improving—not an increase in explicit attributes like strength or speed, but a deeper, foundational nourishment.

It was like a tree, its roots quietly extending deep into the soil.

After about the time it takes to burn a stick of incense (half an hour), Lin Fan felt a slight sense of fullness at the Tanzhong Acupoint in his chest.

[Warning: Current Sea of Qi capacity has reached its limit. Continuing to cultivate may cause Origin Energy to dissipate. It is recommended to pause.]

The panel provided a timely reminder.

Lin Fan slowly withdrew his energy, exhaling a final breath of turbid air.

As the turbid air left his body, it actually formed a faint white trail in the air, lingering for half a second before dissipating. This was a sign of impurities being flushed out of his body by the Origin Energy.

He opened his eyes, and the world became clear once more.

No, it was even clearer than before.

The veins of the sycamore leaves outside the window, the trembling of the spiderweb under the eaves, even the sound of Grandpa Li next door coughing as he got up... all sorts of subtle perceptions flooded his mind like a tide. It wasn't a noisy interference, but a sense of "control"—the range of his perception of the surrounding environment had expanded, and its precision had increased.

Is this an increase in mental power?

Lin Fan looked at the panel.

[Spirit: 15(+1)]

[Vitality: 10/100 (Activated)]

[Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized Version): Entry Level (32/100)]

A single session of cultivation had increased his Spirit by 1 point, activated his Vitality, brought it to 10 points, and increased his cultivation technique proficiency by 32 points!

This efficiency far exceeded his expectations.

According to the system description, gaining proficiency at the "Entry Level" required completing one full cycle of circulation for +1 point. He had only cultivated for the time it takes to burn a stick of incense, which was about five cycles; he should have only gained 5 points.

Is it because of the "Optimized Version" bonus? Or was there an extra "enlightenment" reward for the first official cultivation session?

Lin Fan guessed it was the former. It made sense that a technique optimized by the system would have a cultivation efficiency far superior to the original.

He tried to mobilize those 10 points of Vitality.

Focusing his intent on the Tanzhong Acupoint, that cool energy responded immediately, flowing along the same path as before toward his right hand. As the Vitality gathered in his palm, Lin Fan felt his hand grow slightly warm, as if a faint current of air was surging beneath his skin.

He threw a light punch into the air.

"Whoosh—"

The wind from the punch was more pronounced than usual, and his striking speed seemed to have increased by a fraction.

Although the improvement was slight, it was undeniably there.

Vitality can amplify strength and speed...

Lin Fan's eyes lit up.

Previously, relying solely on physical strength, he could punch with over a thousand jin of force. If he combined that with a burst of Vitality, how much would his power increase?

Unfortunately, he had too little Vitality right now—only 10 points—so he didn't dare to experiment recklessly. According to the Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique, the feeling of depleting one's Vitality was unpleasant and would lead to a temporary state of weakness.

"I need to find a way to increase my Vitality cap and improve my recovery speed."

Lin Fan got out of bed and stretched his body.

His joints popped with a faint "crackle," like rusted gears that had been freshly oiled. The fatigue from last night's training had mostly dissipated, replaced by a sense of abundant vitality.

He walked over to the water vat, scooped up a ladle of cold water, and poured it over his head.

Water droplets rolled down his muscle lines, glistening with a healthy sheen in the morning light. Lin Fan looked down at his body—although he was still on the thin side, his chest, abdomen, arms, and thighs were beginning to show definition. His core area, in particular, had clear lines and was filled with a sense of power.

"Brother, you're up?"

Lin Xiaoyu rubbed her eyes as she walked out of the inner room. Seeing Lin Fan standing in the courtyard with his shirt off, her small face flushed, and she quickly lowered her head.

"Hmm, just finished training." Lin Fan grabbed a coarse cloth shirt hanging on the line and put it on. "Xiaoyu, how are you feeling? Did you cough last night?"

"No, I slept until dawn." Lin Xiaoyu's voice was much clearer, and her complexion was ruddier than yesterday. "Brother, are you still going to the docks today?"

"I am, but I'll be back by the afternoon," Lin Fan said. "The Academy's physical fitness test is tomorrow, so I need to make one last push today."

"Brother will definitely pass!" Lin Xiaoyu clenched her small fists, her eyes filled with determination.

Lin Fan smiled and ruffled his sister's hair. "I'll take your word for it. Go wash up; I'll make breakfast."

"Let me do it, you rest for a bit." Lin Xiaoyu hurried toward the kitchen.

Lin Fan didn't insist. It was a good thing that his sister's health was improving and she was willing to do what she could. Constantly letting her feel like a burden would be bad for her mental well-being.

Breakfast was simple: the half-piece of coarse grain cake leftover from last night, sliced and toasted in the pan, served with a bowl of rice porridge so thin you could see your own reflection in it, and a small dish of pickled vegetables.

The siblings sat across from each other, eating in silence.

"Brother," Lin Xiaoyu suddenly spoke up, "Grandpa Li brought over two eggs yesterday, saying they were to help you build up your strength."

Lin Fan was stunned. "Grandpa Li?"

"The one who lives alone at the end of the alley," Lin Xiaoyu said. "He said he sees you leaving before dawn every day and not coming back until dark, and that it's too hard on you. I put the eggs in the cupboard; you should eat them at noon."

Lin Fan fell silent for a moment.

He remembered Grandpa Li from the end of the alley. He was a lonely old man in his seventies whose son had died in a minor Beast Tide a few years ago. His daughter-in-law had remarried, leaving him to live on a meager pension. He barely scraped by himself, yet he had still brought him eggs...

"Next time Grandpa Li brings something, tell him that Brother is earning money now and he should keep it for himself," Lin Fan said.

"I told him, but he wouldn't listen," Lin Xiaoyu said softly. "He said he's old and doesn't eat much, and that you're at the age where you need to grow..."

Lin Fan didn't say anything more, simply finishing the porridge in his bowl in silence.

That was how the slums were. No one was wealthy, but there were always some people who, within their means, were willing to offer a little warmth.

This made him even more determined—he had to pass the Academy entrance exam, he had to become stronger. Not only to protect his sister, but to ensure that these kind people could live a little better.

After eating, Lin Fan helped his sister decoct her medicine.

The Lung Cleansing Powder needed to be simmered over a low flame for three quarters of an hour (45 minutes), requiring constant stirring to fully release the medicinal properties. Lin Fan squatted in front of the stove, watching the heat while reviewing the breathing techniques optimized by the system in his mind.

He discovered that when he focused on a specific task, maintaining a particular breathing rhythm slightly increased his rate of Origin Energy recovery.

[Origin Energy recovery speed +10%]

The panel notification confirmed it.

"In other words, even if I don't specifically meditate, as long as I maintain the 'Breathing State,' my Yuan Qi can slowly recover?"

This discovery was very important.

Running out of Yuan Qi during a fight was a dangerous thing. If one could quickly recover a portion of it through breathing during the gaps in combat, their survivability would be greatly improved.

"I have to train this into an instinct."

Lin Fan began to consciously adjust his breathing, letting that "deep, slow, and even" rhythm permeate his daily movements—while stirring the medicine pot, adding firewood, and even while talking to his sister, he tried his best to maintain it.

At first, he was very unaccustomed to it, often forgetting the rhythm while speaking. But after practicing for half an hour, he was already able to "multitask," and his breathing rhythm was basically stable.

[Basic Breathing Technique proficiency +1]
[Yuan Qi +0.5]

Although the efficiency was far inferior to dedicated meditation, it had the advantage of being continuous.

The medicine was brewed. Lin Fan poured out a bowl of dark brown medicinal liquid and handed it to his sister.

Lin Xiaoyu took it, wrinkled her little nose as she sniffed it, and then held her breath, drinking it all in one go. After finishing, she quickly stuffed a piece of salted vegetable into her mouth to dilute the bitterness.

"Xiaoyu is so brave," Lin Fan praised with a smile.

"It's not bitter at all," Lin Xiaoyu said, but her face, scrunched into a ball, betrayed her.

After his sister finished the medicine, Lin Fan tidied up the bowls and chopsticks and prepared to head out.

"Brother," Lin Xiaoyu called out to him, pulling a small cloth bag from her bosom. "Take this with you."

Lin Fan took it and opened it to see two boiled eggs inside, still warm.

"Grandpa Li gave them to me. Take them to eat at noon," Lin Xiaoyu said. "Working at the docks is tiring; you won't have strength if you don't eat enough."

Lin Fan looked at his sister's earnest eyes, and his heart warmed.

He did not decline, carefully tucking the eggs into his clothes. "Alright, Brother will take them. You rest well at home and don't run around."

"Mm, be careful on the road, Brother."

Leaving the small courtyard, Lin Fan did not go straight to the docks but instead took a detour to the night market.

He wanted to ask Old Man Li about the "Clear Heart Grass"—the system suggested using it to assist in cultivation and increase the speed of soul fusion.

The night market in the early morning was empty, with only a few sanitation workers cleaning up the trash left over from last night. The book stall's spot was completely empty; Old Man Li clearly hadn't arrived yet.

"I'll come back tonight."

Lin Fan turned and left, riding his bicycle toward the docks.

On the road, he attempted to maintain his breathing rhythm while riding his bike.

The wind blowing against his face required him to constantly adjust the depth and frequency of his breaths. It felt awkward at first, and he nearly choked several times, but he gradually found the trick—inhale quickly and shallowly when riding against the wind, and deeply and slowly when riding with it. When going uphill, his breathing had to sync with the rhythm of his pedaling, while he could relax slightly on the downhills.

[Basic Breathing Technique proficiency +1]
[Weight-Bearing Walking proficiency +1]
[Mental proficiency +0.5]

The three notifications popped up almost simultaneously.

Lin Fan's eyes lit up.

So this is what "multi-threaded cultivation" is all about!

He could ride his bike (Weight-Bearing Walking) while maintaining his breathing, and even train his mental power (multitasking) at the same time. Although the proficiency gain for each skill was halved, the total efficiency had increased by more than 50%!

I can't waste any time while traveling from now on.

This discovery gave Lin Fan a clearer plan for his path as a "grind-master."

By the time he reached the wharf, the sky was already bright.

Foreman Chen was taking roll call. Seeing Lin Fan arrive, he nodded at him. "Xiao Lin, Black Iron Ore again today?"

"Yeah," Lin Fan replied.

"Alright, Warehouse Three, twenty tons. Same old rule: get it done by three in the afternoon." Foreman Chen made a mark in his notebook. "Oh, by the way, you moved twenty-five tons yesterday. Per the rules, the extra five tons count as a bonus. That's 60 points total; I'll give it to you when we settle up at noon."

"Thanks, Uncle Chen," Lin Fan said.

"Don't thank me, you earned it yourself." Foreman Chen patted Lin Fan on the shoulder. "Kid, I've noticed your energy is different these past two days. Have you... touched the threshold of the Martial Dao?"

Lin Fan felt a jolt in his heart, but his expression remained calm. "You're joking, Uncle Chen. I've just been practicing some Basic Fist Technique to strengthen my body."

"Basic Fist Technique doesn't give you that look in your eyes." Foreman Chen stared at Lin Fan for two seconds, then suddenly lowered his voice. "The Jiangnan Academy test is tomorrow, right? Do your best. If you get in, get out of this hellhole."

Lin Fan was silent for a moment, then nodded. "I will."

"Go on then." Foreman Chen waved his hand. "Finish up and go home early to rest. Keep your energy up."

Walking into Warehouse Three, the distinct, heavy scent of Black Iron Ore rushed to meet him.

Twenty tons of ore were piled into a small mountain, casting a dull, metallic sheen under the dim lights. A few fellow workers had already started, and the "shushing" sound of shovels scraping against the ore echoed through the warehouse.

Lin Fan took a deep breath and began his work for the day.

He didn't chase speed as he usually did; instead, he consciously controlled his rhythm—every time he shoveled a load of ore, his breathing synced with his exertion; every time he walked a load over, his steps synced with his breathing.

At first, he was slow, his efficiency only half of what it usually was.

Old Zhang, a fellow worker, couldn't stand it anymore. "Lin Fan, did you not eat today? You're moving like a limp noodle."

Lin Fan didn't explain, just smiled. "Uncle Zhang, I'm adjusting my technique for exerting force."

"Adjusting your technique?" Old Zhang was stunned. "You need to adjust how you exert force just to move ore?"

"Yeah, I'm trying to see if I can save some energy."

Old Zhang shook his head, thinking the young man had gone a bit crazy, but he didn't say anything more.

However, half an hour later, Old Zhang noticed something was wrong.

Lin Fan's speed... was getting faster and faster.

No, it wasn't just speed; it was a sense of "fluidity." Every one of his movements was perfectly timed—his waist and legs worked in unison when shoveling, his breathing remained steady while walking, and his wrists gave a light flick when unloading. He looked unhurried, yet the twenty-kilogram ore in his hands felt as light as a bag of cotton.

What was even more surprising was that there wasn't a single drop of sweat on Lin Fan's forehead, and his breathing remained calm.

"This kid..." Old Zhang widened his eyes.

Lin Fan felt the change himself.

With the rhythm of his breathing technique, his physical exertion had dropped significantly. In the past, he would have started panting after half an hour of moving, but now, an hour had passed, and he only felt slightly warm.

Vital Energy flowed slowly through his body, nourishing his muscles and relieving his fatigue.

[Strength Proficiency +1]
[Basic Breathing Technique Proficiency +0.5]
[Vital Energy -0.2, Recovery +0.3] (Net increase: 0.1)

Moving a load once granted 1.6 total proficiency points and even a net increase of 0.1 Vital Energy!

Although the growth of Vital Energy was minuscule, it was a positive sign—it meant that while he was consuming physical strength, his body was also actively absorbing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth to replenish itself.

Could it be... that high-intensity physical labor actually stimulates the growth of Vital Energy?

Lin Fan guessed as much, but he needed more verification.

He continued to work while closely monitoring the panel data.

Two hours later, all twenty tons of ore had been moved.

[Today's moving task completed]

[Obtained: Strength Proficiency +120, Basic Breathing Technique Proficiency +60, Vitality +12]

[Current Vitality: 22/100]

Lin Fan stood at the warehouse entrance, wiping the fine beads of sweat from his forehead with a smile on his face.

The results were significant.

Not only was the proficiency gain substantial, but his Vitality had increased from 10 points this morning to 22, more than doubling. More importantly, he had discovered a new training method—using high-intensity manual labor to "force" his body to accelerate the absorption of spiritual energy, thereby increasing his Vitality cap and recovery speed.

It seems I can't just bury my head in training from now on; I need to combine it with actual labor.

At this moment, Foreman Chen walked over and handed him a coin pouch. "60 points, count them."

"Thank you, Uncle Chen." Lin Fan took it and tucked it into his pocket without even looking.

"Finished moving everything?" Foreman Chen glanced at the empty warehouse, then back at the calm and composed Lin Fan, his eyes filled with complex emotions. "Little Lin, tell Uncle Chen the truth—have you... already broken through to the Martial Apprentice realm?"

Lin Fan hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "I suppose I've touched the threshold."

"Good lad!" Foreman Chen patted Lin Fan's shoulder hard, his eyes reddening slightly. "Our docks are finally going to produce someone of note! Do well on the exam, you must pass tomorrow!"

"I will."

"Go on, you don't need to come back this afternoon. Get some good preparation in," Foreman Chen said. "Once you pass, Uncle Chen will treat you to a drink!"

Lin Fan bid farewell to the foreman and pushed his bicycle away from the docks.

He didn't head straight home; instead, he made a detour to a pharmacy.

"Clear Heart Grass?" The white-bearded doctor stroked his beard after hearing Lin Fan's inquiry. "I have some, but it isn't really a medicinal herb. It's usually used by martial artists who have overtrained and are feeling restless. What do you need it for?"

"I've been a bit impatient with my training lately, so I want to calm my mind," Lin Fan said.

"Hmm, you really should be careful," the doctor said, glancing at Lin Fan. "At sixteen, you have more bloodshot eyes than an old man like me. Clear Heart Grass isn't expensive, 10 points per stalk, and one lasts for three days. How many do you want?"

"I'll take three to start." Lin Fan took out 30 points.

The doctor retrieved a wooden box from the bottom of the medicine cabinet. Inside were several dried, pale green blades of grass, long and slender, emitting a faint, refreshing fragrance.

"Take one leaf at a time, burn it in an incense burner, or steep it in water," the doctor advised. "Remember, training must be done step by step; haste makes waste. If you wreck your body, everything else is for nothing."

"Thank you, Doctor. I'll keep that in mind."

Leaving the pharmacy, Lin Fan went to a general store and bought the cheapest small clay incense burner, which cost him 5 points.

When he returned home, it wasn't even noon yet.

Lin Xiaoyu was hanging laundry in the courtyard. Seeing Lin Fan return so early, she was surprised. "Brother, why are you back so early today?"

"Work is done. Get back early to prepare for tomorrow's test." Lin Fan parked the bike. "Xiaoyu, what do you want for lunch? I'll go buy some meat."

"No need, Brother. Just heating up yesterday's leftovers is fine," Lin Xiaoyu said quickly. "We need to save money."

"It's fine to splurge once in a while." Lin Fan patted his sister's head. "You've just recovered, you need nutrition. Besides, I got a bonus today."

He pulled out his coin purse and gave it a shake; the sound of coins clinking inside was crisp and pleasant.

Lin Xiaoyu's eyes lit up. "Really?"

"Really," Lin Fan laughed. "So, we're upgrading our meal today. You go start the fire, and I'll go buy the groceries."

"Mm!"

Half an hour later, the simple wooden table was set with a long-awaited meat dish—a plate of braised pork, glistening with oil and perfectly marbled with fat and lean meat; a dish of stir-fried wild vegetables, vibrant and green; and two bowls of white rice.

For children in the slums, this was a feast on the level of the New Year.

Lin Xiaoyu ate until her little mouth was shiny with oil, her eyes squinting into happy crescents. "Brother, the meat is so delicious."

"If it's good, eat more." Lin Fan placed a large piece of meat into his sister's bowl. "Once I get into the academy, I'll make sure you have meat every day."

"Brother has to eat too, you're thin as well." Lin Xiaoyu placed a piece into his bowl in return.

The siblings looked at each other and smiled.

After lunch, Lin Fan told his sister to take a nap while he returned to his room to prepare for his afternoon cultivation.

He first took out the Clear Heart Grass, plucked a leaf, tore it into small pieces, and placed them into a small incense burner. Then, he lit it with a tinderstick.

Pale cyan smoke curled upward, carrying a cool, herbal fragrance that permeated the room.

Lin Fan took a deep breath and felt his mind clear instantly; the last lingering traces of fatigue from the night before dissipated.

[Detected calming substance 'Clear Heart Grass', Mental Recovery Speed +20%, Soul Fusion Rate +10%]

The system prompt popped up.

It worked!

Lin Fan felt a surge of joy. He sat cross-legged in front of the incense burner and began his afternoon breathing exercises.

The fragrance of the Clear Heart Grass seemed to have a life of its own, entering his body with every breath and making it easier for his mind to settle. The speed at which his Origin Energy circulated was faster than in the morning, and the path was clearer as well.

[Basic Breathing Technique proficiency +2]
[Origin Energy +1]
[Soul Fusion Rate +0.02%]

Efficiency has doubled!

Lin Fan was immersed in this highly efficient cultivation, and before he knew it, an entire afternoon had passed.

As the afterglow of the setting sun dyed the window paper red, Lin Fan slowly withdrew his energy.

The moment he opened his eyes, he felt the world was different again.

It wasn't just clearer; it was... vivid.

On a spiderweb in the corner, a small insect was struggling, and he could clearly see the frequency at which its wings vibrated. Outside the window, two sparrows were chirping in the parasol tree, and he could distinguish which one had the brighter voice. He could even smell three different herbal components in the lingering scent of the burned Clear Heart Grass in the air.

His five senses had been comprehensively enhanced.

He looked at the panel again:

[Spirit: 16 (+1)]

[Vitality: 50/100]

[Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized Version): Entry Level (98/100)]

[Soul Fusion Rate: 72.5% (+0.1%)]

In one afternoon, his mental strength had risen by another point, his Vitality had reached 50, his technique proficiency was only 2 points away from the "Proficient" level, and his Soul Fusion Rate had increased by another 0.1%.

His progress was rapid.

"At this rate, I can break through to the 'Proficient' level tonight," Lin Fan estimated. "As for the Vitality cap... it should be able to break through 60 points before the test tomorrow."

If he used all 60 points of Vitality for an explosive burst, how much power would it have?

He felt a sense of anticipation.

"Brother, it's time for dinner," Lin Xiaoyu called out softly from outside the door.

"Coming."

Lin Fan stood up, stretched his slightly stiff body, and walked out of the room.

Dinner was simple; they heated up the leftovers from lunch, and the siblings sat in the courtyard, eating in the evening breeze.

"Brother, what were you doing in your room all afternoon? There wasn't a sound," Lin Xiaoyu asked curiously.

"Practicing, a type of meditation technique," Lin Fan said. "It helps calm the mind and restore physical strength."

"Oh... are you nervous about the test tomorrow, Brother?"

"Not nervous." Lin Fan picked up some wild vegetables for his sister. "I've prepared for so long, and I've done everything I could. As for the rest, it's up to fate."

That said, Lin Fan was actually quite confident.

With his current strength, passing the physical fitness test shouldn't be a problem. What he was worried about was whether Wang Hao would pull any more dirty tricks.

"Brother will definitely pass the exam," Lin Xiaoyu said earnestly. "I even dreamt about it last night. You were wearing the academy uniform, looking so dashing."

Lin Fan smiled. "I'll take your word for it."

After dinner, Lin Fan helped his sister decoct her evening medicine, watched her finish it, and then urged her to get to sleep early.

"Brother, aren't you going to sleep yet?" Lin Xiaoyu asked from her bed.

"I'm going to practice a little longer." Lin Fan tucked the quilt in for her. "You go to sleep. I'll wake you up in the morning."

"Mhm, don't practice too late, Brother."

Once his sister was asleep, Lin Fan tiptoed back to his own room.

The Clear Heart Grass had burned out, leaving a faint fragrance lingering in the room.

He didn't light another piece. Although the Clear Heart Grass was effective, the system had warned that continuous use would lead to diminishing returns and potential dependency. Using one every three days was the optimal frequency.

Lin Fan sat cross-legged, preparing to push toward the "Proficient" level.

The night deepened, and the moonlight flowed like water.

The young man closed his eyes and focused, his breathing long and steady.

Vital Energy circulated within his body, cycle after cycle.

[Basic Breathing Technique Proficiency +1]

[Vital Energy +0.5]

[Basic Breathing Technique Proficiency +1]

[Vital Energy +0.5]

When the hundredth cycle was completed, the panel suddenly vibrated.

[Proficiency for Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized Version) has reached 100. Realm promoted: Novice → Proficient]

[Effect improved: Vital Energy recovery speed +20%, Vital Energy cap +20, cultivation efficiency +10%]

[New trait unlocked: Vital Energy Perception]

[Vital Energy Perception: Can vaguely sense Vital Energy fluctuations within a ten-meter radius (including the aura of martial artists, demonic beasts, precious treasures, etc.)]

Lin Fan felt a surge of joy, but before he could examine the new trait in detail, his body suddenly underwent an even more drastic change!

The Sea of Qi at the Tanzhong Acupoint seemed to have broken through some kind of restriction, expanding violently!

The space that could originally only hold 100 points of Origin Energy instantly expanded to 120 points. More importantly, the moment the Sea of Qi expanded, it generated a powerful suction force—

"Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh—"

The surrounding Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy surged toward Lin Fan like a tidal wave!

Every pore on his skin opened wide, greedily absorbing the incoming spiritual energy. Once this energy entered his body, it was rapidly converted into Origin Energy, filling the newly expanded Sea of Qi.

[Origin Energy Value: 85/120]

[Origin Energy Value: 90/120]

[Origin Energy Value: 100/120]

When the Sea of Qi was filled, the incoming spiritual energy did not stop; instead, it began to permeate deeper into his body.

Bones, internal organs, blood...

Wherever the Origin Energy passed, a tingling, itchy sensation emerged, as if thousands of ants were crawling over him. But Lin Fan could feel that this was not a bad thing—the hidden injuries accumulated from years of exhaustion deep within his body, and the deficiencies caused by malnutrition, were being repaired and nourished bit by bit by the Origin Energy.

This process lasted for about a quarter of an hour before slowly coming to a halt.

Lin Fan opened his eyes and exhaled a long breath of turbid air.

This breath of turbid air was actually grayish-black; it was clearly visible under the moonlight and drifted three feet away before dissipating.

"Cleansing the marrow and cutting the tendons?"

Lin Fan recalled that the Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique mentioned that when a cultivation technique breaks through to a new realm, there is a certain chance of triggering a "Minor Marrow Cleansing," which expels impurities from the body and improves one's constitution.

He looked down at his body.

The surface of his skin was covered in a thin layer of gray, oily grime that carried a faint, fishy stench. These were the impurities expelled from his body.

However, beneath the skin, his muscles were fuller, his bones were harder, and the sound of his blood flowing was clearer and more vigorous.

He looked at the panel again:

[Character: Lin Fan]

[Age: 16]

[Realm: Unranked (Quasi-Martial Apprentice)]

[Lifespan: 100 years]

[Strength: 19(+1)]

[Defense: 16(+1)]

[Speed: 17(+1)]

[Spirit: 17(+1)]

[Comprehension: 15]

[Bone Structure: 18]

[Qi: 120/120]

[Skill Points: 0]

[Cultivation Method: Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique (Optimized · Proficient 0/500)]

[Martial Arts: Basic Fist Technique (Mastery 625/1000), Basic Footwork (Proficient 312/500), Iron Body Skill (Mastery 88/1000), Gale Sword Technique (Entry 12/100)]

[Life Skills: Weight-Bearing Walking (Proficient 245/500), Cargo Handling (Proficient 243/500)]

[Special Status: Soul Fusion Rate 72.6% (+0.1%), Physique slightly improved]

[New Trait: Qi Perception (Can be toggled on/off)]

All attributes increased by 1 point, Qi limit increased to 120 points, and the cultivation method reached the Proficient level.

More importantly, that new trait—"Qi Perception."

Lin Fan moved his mind and activated the perception.

In an instant, the world changed.

It was no longer the scene seen by the naked eye, but a world composed of countless "points of light" and "currents of air."

His own body emitted a faint white halo, mainly concentrated in his chest (Sea of Qi) and limbs (the paths where Qi circulates). The intensity of the halo represented the concentration of Qi.

The tables, chairs, and bed in the room were dark gray, with almost no Qi fluctuations.

But outside the window...

Lin Fan "looked" outside.

In the courtyard, inside his younger sister's room, there was a tiny, faint point of light, pale red, like a candle in the wind, flickering on and off—that was his sister's life force; because she was frail, it was very weak.

Further away, in other houses in the slum area, dozens of light points were scattered, mostly similar pale red ones, varying in strength. Occasionally, there were one or two pale white ones; those were ordinary people who were healthy and had a certain level of vitality.

Even further, outside the slum area, in the direction of the East District...

There, several exceptionally bright points of light were visible!

There were blazing reds, like burning torches; heavy, condensed yellows, like massive rock faces; sharp cyans, like unsheathed swords...

Every single point of light contained a fluctuation of Origin Energy far exceeding that of an ordinary person.

Martial artists... and not low-grade ones at that, Lin Fan judged inwardly.

Only someone at the 3rd Grade Martial Master level or higher could produce such an intense Origin Energy reaction.

He continued to "look" further into the distance—toward the center of Jiangnan City, in the direction of the academy.

There, the points of light were more numerous and more densely packed.

Dozens of red, yellow, and cyan points of light were gathered together, and among them were a few... pale gold points of light!

Pale gold!

The Detailed Explanation of Basic Breathing Technique mentioned that when a martial artist cultivates to a profound realm, their Origin Energy gradually undergoes a qualitative change, and its color shifts accordingly. Pale gold was the hallmark of at least a 6th Grade Martial King!

"Jiangnan Academy really is full of hidden talents..."

Lin Fan deactivated his Origin Energy perception.

The world returned to its original state.

But his heart could not calm down for a long time.

This new ability was simply too useful.

Not only could he perceive powerful martial artists or fierce beasts in advance, but he could also judge their elemental affinities (red likely being fire-type, yellow likely being earth-type, and cyan likely being wind or lightning-type). He could even discover hidden natural treasures (provided they had strong Origin Energy fluctuations).

In actual combat, this was equivalent to an all-weather radar.

"With this, I have a much better chance for tomorrow's practical test."

Lin Fan stood up, fetched a basin of water, gave himself a simple wash to clean off the grime, and then changed into clean clothes.

The night was deep, but he felt no sleepiness at all.

The excitement brought on by his breakthrough was still lingering, and the abundant Origin Energy in his body kept him full of energy.

"Since I can't sleep anyway, I might as well try out the Origin Energy Burst..."

Lin Fan walked into the courtyard and assumed the starting stance of the Basic Fist Technique.

He did not mobilize the strength of his entire body, choosing instead to first try gathering one point of Origin Energy into his right hand.

With a shift of his will, a wisp of Origin Energy branched off from his Tanzhong Acupoint, flowed along the optimized path toward his right arm, and finally converged in his fist.

A faint, almost invisible white glow shimmered over his fist.

Lin Fan threw a light punch into the air.

"Whoosh—"

The force of the punch tore through the air, more pronounced and faster than during his tests at noon.

"1 point of Yuan Qi provides roughly a 5% increase in punch speed and power."

He then attempted to mobilize 5 points of Yuan Qi.

This time, the white glow on his fist was clearly visible, like a thin film of light. As he threw the punch, the air whistled audibly, and the fallen leaves in the courtyard were swept up by the wind, scattering two meters away.

"5 points of Yuan Qi provides roughly a 20% increase."

"If I were to mobilize all 120 points of Yuan Qi..."

Lin Fan didn't dare to try.

For one, the commotion would be too great, and he feared waking his sister and the neighbors; for another, the period of weakness after exhausting his Yuan Qi would affect tomorrow's test.

But he made a rough estimate—if he unleashed all his Yuan Qi into a single punch, the power would increase at least twofold!

Combined with his Minor Accomplishment level Basic Fist Technique (a 50% bonus), the power of that punch would likely approach the full-force strike of a 2nd Grade Martial Artist.

"That's enough to pass the test."

Lin Fan felt a sense of certainty in his heart.

He withdrew his energy and stood still, looking up at the night sky.

The stars were scattered across the heavens, with the Milky Way stretching across the horizon.

Tomorrow was the moment to change his destiny.

"Dad, Mom, just watch," Lin Fan whispered. "Your son will definitely get into the academy, will definitely become a martial artist, will definitely protect Xiaoyu, and will definitely... live a life worth living."

The night breeze brushed past, carrying the slight chill of late summer.

The young man stood in the courtyard, his figure as straight as a spear.