QI

As Jin Mo left his mother's room, the lively hum of the Mo Castle greeted him. The castle buzzed with activity, every corridor a testament to the grand preparations underway. Servants and maids hurried back and forth, adorning the walls with banners and lanterns, polishing the grand hall's ornate floors, and arranging bouquets of seasonal flowers. Anticipation hung thick in the air, filling the space with a vibrant energy that seemed to breathe new life into the ancient castle.

"The patriarch is coming back after five years," a servant's voice reached Jin Mo's ears, carrying a mix of awe and excitement.

Jin Mo paused at the edge of the bustling scene, observing the joyful faces around him. He noted the servants' nimble hands weaving garlands, the maids laughing quietly among themselves, and the guards standing a little taller as if the patriarch's presence demanded perfection, even in preparation.

"Five years," Jin Mo murmured to himself. He glanced at a nearby portrait of his father, which hung prominently in the family hall. The stern gaze of the man in the painting exuded authority, strength, and an aura of untouchable dignity. Jin Mo had never met his father in person, but the stories he'd heard painted a figure larger than life—a warrior, a leader, and the unyielding pillar of the Mo Clan. His return was more than a homecoming; it was a symbol of the clan's unity and strength.

As he turned away, a fleeting thought crossed his mind: My father and mother… they both look so good. I don't have to worry about growing up ugly, I guess. The notion brought a rare, faint smile to his face, though it was quickly replaced by a more contemplative expression.

He made his way back to his room, stepping into its quiet solitude. The castle seemed different now, its usual calm replaced with vibrant energy that resonated through every corner. Jin Mo closed the door behind him, leaning against it for a moment as he took a deep breath.

With practiced ease, he settled himself into a meditative position on the floor. His breathing slowed, each inhale and exhale drawing him deeper into a state of focus. Over the past two years, this routine had become second nature, a foundation upon which his strength and control had been built. As his Qi began to flow steadily, an otherworldly calmness enveloped him.

Ding!

A soft chime echoed in his mind, accompanied by a familiar blue screen.

Dragon's Breath Technique (7 Stars) reached Level 2.

Jin Mo opened his eyes, the notification bringing a sense of satisfaction. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he pulled up the detailed description of the skill.

Dragon's Breath Technique (7 Stars) [Level 2/5]

Description: A powerful technique that channels the fiery might of a dragon, unleashing destructive blasts of elemental energy. With each level, the technique becomes more refined, offering greater control and devastation. It is used to gather Qi from the environment.

Level 1/5

Description: Unleashes raw, fiery energy in close combat for massive damage. This level focuses on overwhelming power at the cost of high Qi consumption.

Effects: High single-target damage Moderate Qi cost Intimidating aura

Level 2/5

Description: Improves control and efficiency, increasing power and range. The attack also gains a knockback effect, disrupting enemies.

Effects: +25% damage Reduced Qi cost Extended range Knockback effect

Jin Mo's smile widened as he closed the screen. Two years of relentless practice had finally borne fruit. His control over the technique had improved significantly, and he could feel the difference.

That's progress.

He stretched his arms, feeling the strength that now coursed through his body. Each movement was fluid and deliberate, a testament to the rigorous training that had sharpened his skills and tempered his spirit.

SYSTEM STATUS

I. User Info

Name: Jin Mo

Level: 14 [7800/11000] (EXP needed for next level)

Race: High Human

Class: Death Apostle

Body: None

Realm: None

Titles: The Rebirth of the Death Apostle, Blessed by the 5 Gods, The Unyielding Sovereign

Nyx Coins: 3550 NC

Health: [15000/15000]

Qi: [500/500]

II. Stats

Stamina (STA): 49

Qi (QI): 50

Strength (STR): 45

Agility (AGI): 41

Vitality (VIT): 50

Intelligence (INT): 35

Perception (PER): 32

Luck (LCK): 16

Stat Points (SP): 70

III. Abilities

Active Abilities:

Bone Spear (3 Stars)

Necrotic Grasp (3 Stars)

White Tiger Blade (3 Stars)

White Tiger Claw (2 Stars)

White Tiger Steps (2 Stars)

Passive Abilities:

Soul Perception (5 Stars)

Weapon Mastery (3 Stars)

Dragon's Breath Technique (7 Stars) [Level 2/5]

Graveyard (2 Stars)

Nightcrawler (2 Stars)

Rise (4 stars)

Absorb (3 stars)

IV. Unique Abilities

Blessing of the 5 Gods (5 Stars)

V. Store

Jin Mo's gaze lingered on his stats for a moment. His hard work was paying off, and it showed in every number. He was no longer the same person he had been years ago. The thought filled him with pride, but it also served as a reminder of the challenges still ahead.

Darkie—his loyal shadow creature—had been invaluable in gathering intelligence. It had uncovered secrets about Madam Shein Mo and the undercurrents of schemes within the castle. Jin Mo knew that his current strength was only a stepping stone toward greater battles.

A soft knock at the door broke his train of thought. Rising to his feet, he adjusted his robes and walked over, mentally preparing himself for whatever lay ahead.

As he opened the door, the cool air of the corridor greeted him, carrying faint traces of incense and freshly brewed tea. A young servant stood outside, bowing deeply.

"Young Master Jin Mo, the matriarch has requested your presence in the garden. She wishes to speak with you."

Jin Mo nodded, his expression unreadable. "I'll be there shortly."

As the servant departed, Jin Mo took a deep breath. The castle was alive with anticipation, but for him, this was only the beginning.

He closed the door behind him and headed toward the garden, ready to face whatever awaited him next.