The Matriarch’s Summon

Chapter 6 – The Matriarch's Summon

Shen Tian sat in silence after Elder Liu left, the cool air of the chamber brushing against his exposed skin. He flexed his freed wrist, the sensation of strength coursing through him thrilling, intoxicating.

But he wasn't safe yet.

Elder Liu was interested, but interest alone wasn't enough. He had to secure his place in this sect—not as prey, but as a predator.

A new notification flashed in his mind.

[Ding! Quest Update!]

Quest: Prove Your Worth – Completed!

• Reward: +10 Yin Absorption Efficiency, +5 Body Tempering Proficiency.

New Quest Unlocked: A Step into Power

• Objective: Survive the Matriarch's test and earn her recognition.

• Reward: Unlock "Demonic Yin Refinement - First Layer."

Shen Tian narrowed his eyes. The Matriarch?

That was dangerous.

The Matriarch was the undisputed ruler of the Dual Cultivation Sect. She was rumored to be as ancient as she was powerful, a woman whose beauty was only matched by her ruthlessness. For her to summon him meant one of two things—she saw potential in him, or she saw a threat.

A knock came at his door.

"Shen Tian," a familiar voice called.

He recognized it immediately—Xiao Mei.

The door slid open before he could respond, and Xiao Mei stepped inside.

She was stunning as always, her crimson sect robes hugging her curves, her violet eyes filled with intrigue. But Shen Tian knew better than to be distracted.

Xiao Mei was a snake, just like the rest of them.

"You're moving up quickly," she said, closing the door behind her. "First, you impress Elder Liu. Now, the Matriarch herself wants to see you?" She smirked. "You must have done something interesting."

Shen Tian met her gaze calmly. "Or maybe I was always interesting, and you just never noticed."

Xiao Mei chuckled. "Confidence… I like that." She stepped closer, her fingers brushing against his chest as if testing him.

Shen Tian remained unmoved.

His Yin Seduction Aura was already at work, subtly influencing her, but he knew better than to push too hard. Xiao Mei was dangerous. She wouldn't fall so easily.

"You should be careful," she murmured, her fingers trailing off his skin. "The Matriarch doesn't summon people without reason. If she sees you as useful, you'll rise. But if she sees you as a threat…"

Shen Tian smirked. "Then I'll just have to make sure she sees me as both."

Xiao Mei's eyes flickered with amusement. "Ambitious. I'll be watching."

She turned, walking toward the door, but paused. "Come. The Matriarch doesn't like to wait."

Shen Tian took a deep breath, steadying himself.

This was his moment—his first true step toward power in this world.

He had no choice but to seize it.