Shameless Harry.

"Can't everyone level up by fighting monsters?" Harry inquired, seeking confirmation on whether he was the only one who could power up this way.

"Of course not. The likelihood of leveling up through combat is exceedingly rare. To ascend, one must reach the peak of their current level, and using cultivation resources can enhance the chances of breaking through," Liam explained.

As Harry had suspected, his situation was unique. It was akin to a game—vanquishing monsters granted experience points (EXP), and upon accumulating enough, he advanced to the next level.

Now, he was curious—could he also level up through cultivation resources? If so, wouldn't that make him a generational talent? But for now, he couldn't verify it, as no Level 6 resources were available in the shops.

"I think we should procure cultivation serums for Meru and Tyler. I'll cover the cost for now, and you can repay me later," Liam proposed.

"Thank you, Liam. I won't forget your kindness," Tyler said with a broad grin.

After purchasing the serums, they returned to their rooms.

"You must train immediately after using the serum, so pair up and spar with each other," Liam instructed.

Tyler and Meru administered the syringes and began training. Two hours later, they stopped, huffing and panting.

"Now all the energy is absorbed and settled, and your levels have increased," Liam said, wiping sweat from his forehead after a prolonged bout.

Harry could see the joy on Meru and Tyler's faces.

He pondered how he would explain his elevated level. One option was to directly inform them about the system. But would they believe him? He envisioned a scenario where he explained his game-like system and leveling method, only for Tyler and Meru to regard him as a joker.

No... no. I can't. If they keep inquiring, I'll just demonstrate it instead of explaining, Harry decided.

"Liam, could you explain the usage of beast crystals?" Harry asked.

"Beast crystals can be used as a pure energy source or for crafting weapons. The quality of a weapon depends on the crystal and materials used. We often use crystal energy as a power source for various applications. There are even high-tech ships that operate on beast crystals," Liam explained.

Harry merely nodded.

After a long silence, Liam asked, "Earlier, you asked about information on recruits. Can you tell me your reason?"

"I'm looking for someone who entered here several years ago," Harry replied, setting his blanket aside.

"You know, I am the son of the lord. When you first asked for information, I wasn't sure if I should help you, but after spending a day with you, I can tell you're not a bad person. However, even if I wanted to help, I couldn't—the information is controlled by the Star Association," Liam said, his voice tinged with regret as he gazed at the ceiling.

"Really? Then can you help me bring my mother to the domain?" Harry asked.

"Yes, I can. Give me her address, and I'll send someone to bring her," Liam offered.

Harry provided the address, and Liam assured him that his mother would arrive in a few days. Harry was elated—one of his biggest concerns was now resolved.

In his excitement, he forgot to ask why the son of the lord was even here. So he turned to Liam. "Why are you here?"

"Recently, there's been a conflict between my royal family and the Alphanso family," Liam said.

"That doesn't explain why you're here," Harry responded.

"Have you ever wondered why there are no high-realm individuals here? It's implausible that no one has surpassed my father's level for years."

"Why?" Harry asked.

"Those who reach higher levels require advanced cultivation resources to break through, which aren't available in a small city like this. So, they move to high-tier cities. If someone wants to be the lord of a small city, they must forgo the temptation of becoming stronger.

"My father holds his position with the support of my brother, who is far stronger than anyone in this city.

"Recently, the third son of the Alphanso family reached the same level as my brother after joining the Philosophers Academy. He wants his father to become the city's lord, but since my brother is his equal in strength, he can't force the issue.

"Our families have a good relationship, so we don't want things to escalate. After discussions, both families agreed that the second son of the Alphanso family and I would compete. Whoever wins will become the next lord, while our fathers will manage the city until we grow strong enough."

Harry listened attentively, unsure how to respond. He was curious about the academy Liam mentioned but decided to let him finish first. "What kind of competition is it?"

"There are two possible challenges. The first is to kill an advanced beast with new recruits without family assistance. The second is to pass the entrance exam of the Philosophers Academy.

"With only two weeks left before the exam, I aim to complete the first challenge. There's a high chance that we'll both pass the entrance exam anyway," Liam explained.

Harry nodded in understanding. He then decided to reveal his true level. "I'll help you complete your first task, but in return, you owe me a favor."

"I'm also at Foundation Building level 6," Harry added.

"What? How is that possible? You've only been here for a day, and you're already at my level!" Liam exclaimed in astonishment.

"It doesn't matter how, but you'll owe me a favor after I help you," Harry insisted. He was reluctant to reveal the truth, fearing Liam would think he was a fool.

"Of course, if it's within my power, I'll help you however I can," Liam promised sincerely.

"Tyler, I know you're listening," Harry said, glancing toward the spot where Tyler was pretending to be asleep.