A Game of Power

Shen Tian remained still, his wrist throbbing from the broken restraint, but he didn't let the pain show. Pain was weakness. Weakness was death. And right now, Elder Liu was watching him like a predator deciding whether to devour its prey or let it grow into something… useful.

Her fingers brushed over his freed wrist, lingering there for a moment before retreating. "Not bad," she mused. "But breaking a single chain is hardly proof of worth. Strength alone means nothing in this sect, Shen Tian. Only those who can control power rise."

Shen Tian knew that all too well. The Dual Cultivation Sect was built on manipulation, on knowing when to yield and when to dominate. If he wanted to survive, he couldn't just be strong—he had to be cunning.

Another Ding! echoed in his mind.

[Ding! System Update!]

New Feature Unlocked: Yin Seduction Aura

• Passive ability that influences female cultivators within close proximity, making them subconsciously view the host as more desirable, mysterious, and worthy of attention.

• Effect strengthens based on host's confidence and control.

Shen Tian smirked inwardly. Perfect timing.

He let out a slow breath, letting his newfound control over his own energy settle. Then, he stepped forward.

Elder Liu didn't move back. She merely watched, intrigued.

"You're right," he said smoothly, flexing his fingers now that his wrist was free. "Strength alone isn't enough. But tell me, Elder Liu… what if I could do more than just break chains?"

She raised a brow. "Oh?"

Shen Tian tilted his head slightly, lowering his voice just enough to make it intimate, but confident. "What if I could harness Yin energy in a way no one else here could? What if I could make the cultivation of every woman in this sect… more efficient?"

Elder Liu's pupils dilated—just slightly.

Shen Tian felt it—the effect of his new ability seeping into the space between them. The shift was subtle, but undeniable.

She recovered quickly, laughing softly. "Such bold words… from someone who was in chains moments ago."

"Boldness is necessary for survival," Shen Tian countered. "And you? You're smart enough to see potential when it's right in front of you."

Elder Liu studied him, and for the first time, there was no outright contempt in her gaze—only curiosity.

[Quest Progress: 60% - Elder Liu is intrigued.]

"Very well," she finally said. "I'll give you a chance. But know this—if you fail to impress me further, I won't hesitate to throw you back into the abyss."

Shen Tian exhaled, feeling the tension ease slightly. He had bought himself time.

But this was just the beginning.

The game of power had only just begun.