gathering informations

As darkness claimed the city, Bai Yu settled onto the single bed, the thin blanket doing little to ward off the coming chill. But he didn't mind. He was a cultivator, after all. Pulling out a small pouch of travel rations, he took a frugal meal, his mind already consumed by the upcoming cultivation session.

He popped a Blood Cleansing Pill into his mouth, the bitter taste a stark contrast to the anticipation building within him. Crossing his legs in meditation position, he closed his eyes and focused on channeling his inner energy. As he started his cultivation cycle, he felt a warmth spread through his body, a gentle purge accompanying the surge of Qi. The pill was working, easing the usual discomfort that came with pushing his limits.

just as the first rays of dawn peeked through the tiny window, a tingle erupted within Bai Yu. 

He opened his eyes, a surge of power coursing through him. He had broken through the bottleneck! "The eight stage of the Blood condensation realm" mumbled Bai Yu joyfully.

Having only consumed two of the four pills, Bai Yu had already achieved a breakthrough, reaching the eighth stage of the Blood Condensation Realm. Exiting his room, he strolled through the bustling city. Suddenly, a shrill scream pierced the air. "Out of my way, you filthy commoners!" A woman, adorned in noble attire and surrounded by guards, rode atop a demonic beast radiating the aura of the second stage. Bai Yu glanced back, recognizing the markers of a noble clan. Disgusted by her arrogant treatment of the common people, he muttered under his breath, "What a bitch." With a cold scowl, he turned and retreated to his small rented room.Settling back in, Bai Yu decided to organize the information he'd gathered. This was Water Rites City, one of many under the control of the Azure Sword Sect. Each city housed a branch of the sect, and the next round of disciple selection was imminent - approximately thirteen days from now.