Chapter 2: Reflections of the Past

A sharp pain shot through my head as the system's voice echoed once more:

[Do you want to acquire the owner's body memory? This will help settle your unstable mind.]

I hesitated. The weight of everything—my death, this strange world, the dual paths assigned to me pressed down like an unbearable burden. Knowing the past of this body might give me answers, but...would it hurt?

"Will it hurt?" I asked, my voice cautious.

[Yes. The process will not be that painful, but necessary. Do you wish to proceed?]

"Do it," I whispered.

The moment I agreed, an unbearable agony surged through my skull. It felt as though countless needles pierced my brain, each memory of this body being branded into my consciousness. Gritting my teeth, I refused to scream. I wouldn't give the system that satisfaction.

Images flickered behind my closed eyes—moments from a life that wasn't mine, yet now was.

This body belonged to a boy named Li Sheng Yun.

Wait... Li Sheng Yun?

My heart skipped a beat. That was my name in my past life too.

The memories unraveled further, revealing the truth. This body wasn't just some random stranger's. It was me. An alternate version of myself in this world. No wonder I recognized my face in the reflection—this was me, just younger. Fifteen years old, to be exact, five years younger than when I died.

A sense of familiarity washed over me, mingling with confusion. Was this fate's twisted joke? Or something deeper?

The alternate Li Sheng Yun was an Outer Sect Disciple of the Heavenly Sword Sect, a mid-tier sect in this vast cultivation world. He had joined the sect at the age of five, trained for a decade, and remained...average. Not a genius, not a cripple—just another face in the crowd.

He had no significant achievements, no remarkable talents, and no close friends. A quiet, unassuming boy who worked hard but never shone.

Still, his—or rather, my—past offered me valuable insight into this world. The Heavenly Sword Sect was one of many cultivation sects scattered across the continent of Xiyuan. Cultivation here was divided into realms, each with its own hurdles. Talent dictated how fast one could progress, and sadly, this body's talent was mediocre at best.

Qi Gathering Realm: Basic energy absorption and foundation building.

Foundation Establishment Realm: Stabilizing energy, enhancing strength.

Core Formation Realm: Forming a core of energy, stronger techniques.

Nascent Soul Realm: Soul manifestation, spiritual powers.

Soul Ascension Realm: Mastery of soul-based abilities.

Void Immortal Realm: Near god-like powers, bending reality slightly.

(Each realm has sub-levels such as Early, Mid, Late, and Peak stages. Additional realms beyond Ascension can be introduced as the story progresses.)

his Innate talent is Blue – Above average, allowing him to progress faster than most cultivators, though not as rapidly as top-tier geniuses.

Red – Extremely poor talent (almost no hope for advancement).

Orange – Low talent (slow cultivation progress).

Yellow – Below average talent.

Green – Average talent.

Blue – Above average talent.

Dark Blue – High talent (fast cultivation, strong potential).

Purple – Rare genius-level talent.

Gold – Once-in-a-generation talent.

Platinum – Mythical talent (almost unheard of).

As the pain subsided, I sat in silence, absorbing everything. The memories, the reality of my situation, and the daunting path ahead.

I stood up, feeling more grounded now that the memories had settled. This body might be younger and weaker, but it was mine. My past, my future—they were all within my grasp.

As I took a slow breath, a subtle sensation brushed against my skin. It was faint, almost imperceptible, yet undeniably present. A gentle, flowing energy that seemed to weave through the air itself. At first, it was nothing more than a whisper on the edge of my senses, elusive and distant. But with the memories now settling within me, understanding followed.

Qi.

The lifeblood of all cultivators, the very force that dictated strength in this world. Before, I was blind to it. But now… now, I could feel it.

I closed my eyes, focusing inward. The more I attuned myself, the clearer it became. It wasn't just in the air—it was everywhere. Beneath my feet, in the gentle breeze, even within my own body. A faint hum of energy, pulsing ever so subtly, like the steady rhythm of an unspoken force.

A slow inhale. The moment the Qi entered my lungs, a refreshing coolness spread through my body, like taking a sip of pristine mountain spring water after days of thirst. It coursed through me, filling every limb, every fiber of my being with a quiet strength. My body, which had felt slightly sluggish moments ago, suddenly felt lighter, more alive.

I exhaled, a soft smile tugging at my lips. This… this was power. The very essence of cultivation, and now, it was mine to command.

Stepping out of the cave, I found myself in a secluded section of the sect grounds. The towering mountains stood like ancient guardians, their peaks shrouded in mist. Sunlight filtered through the dense forest, casting long shadows across the moss-covered stone paths that wove through the terrain. Streams of crystal-clear water trickled down rocky cliffs, merging into a serene pond below, where koi fish lazily swam beneath floating lotus leaves. The scent of damp earth and morning dew filled the crisp air, a refreshing contrast to the stale atmosphere inside the cave.

Despite the breathtaking view, I wasn't here to admire nature's beauty. I had more pressing matters to attend to.

"System," I called out, my voice steady. "You've been quiet since last night. Explain yourself."

A familiar mechanical voice echoed in my mind, carrying a faint metallic tone.

[SYSTEM INITIALIZING… COMPLETE.]

[Greetings, Host. You may refer to me as the Character Fate Analysis System, though alternative names such as Fate Insight System or Destiny Identifier System would also be acceptable.]

I raised a brow. Character Fate Analysis System? Sounds like something straight out of a novel.

"And what exactly do you do?"

[My function is simple. I analyze and classify the characters within this world. I can identify whether a person is a Hero, Heroine, Villain, Villainess, or a Supportive Character. In addition, these roles may fall under various specialized categories, such as Shining Hero, Demonic Villain, or other unique classifications based on their traits and influence in the world.]

I crossed my arms, intrigued. "So, if I encounter someone, you can tell me their role?"

[Indeed, Host. However, understand this: when you refused to choose between Hero and Villain, a hidden trait of the system was unlocked.]

I raised an eyebrow. Hidden trait? That's interesting.

[If you had chosen to be a Hero, the system would have bound you to the Hero's Path, forcing you to act accordingly. Likewise, if you had chosen to be a Villain, the system would have ensured that you remained on the path of destruction and chaos.]

I smirked. So, if I had chosen either side, I would've been shackled like a puppet? How tragic.

[Correct. However, since you refused to conform, the system's Dual Fate Trait has activated.]

A sharp glint flashed in my eyes. "Dual Fate? That means…?"

[You can be both a Hero and a Villain at the same time. The world order will perceive you as a hero at times and as a villain at others, depending on your actions. You are free to switch between roles as you see fit, creating confusion, fear, admiration, or chaos as you desire. No system restrictions will apply to your choices.]

I let out a chuckle. "So I can play the part of a righteous hero when necessary and act as a ruthless villain when it suits me? How amusing… Truly, I am a natural-born anomaly."

[Furthermore, since your existence defies the normal order, the system will now provide dynamic quests that allow you to act in either role while still obtaining the same rewards. Whether you uphold justice or spread terror, you will still earn Hero Points and Villain Points.]

I rubbed my chin, deep in thought. "That means I can manipulate both sides for my benefit, without being bound to one ideology… Truly, this world has blessed me with an unfair advantage."

[Additionally, you will earn System Points (SP) based on the Hero Points or Villain Points you accumulate. Unlike Hero and Villain Points, which are obtained through your actions, SP is much rarer and serves as the key to upgrading the system and enhancing your abilities.]

[For every 100 Hero Points or 100 Villain Points you obtain, you will be rewarded with 5 System Points. These SP can be used to upgrade the system or strengthen your existing powers. Upgrading the system from Level 1 to Level 2 requires 10 System Points.]

I tapped my fingers together, a slow grin forming. "System Points, huh? And these SP can also be used to upgrade my abilities"

"Hah… This system is truly made for someone like me."

Li Feng Yun's lips curled into a smirk as he processed the new information. A system that categorized people, assigned roles, and rewarded him for acting as either a hero or a villain? It was practically built for a narcissist like himself. Unlike the protagonists in the countless transmigration novels he had read, who were shackled by their system's rigid demands, his system was flexible—adaptable.

Most systems forced their hosts onto a single path, whether it be one of righteousness or wickedness. If a person received a Hero System, they would be forced into the role of a savior, earning rewards for acts of kindness and self-sacrifice. On the other hand, a Villain System would encourage ruthlessness, rewarding cruelty and destruction. Both had their merits, but both were also chains—restrictions that locked their hosts into a singular destiny.

But his system?

It was free.

No forced morality. No artificial restrictions. He was not bound by the world's expectations of good and evil. He could play the role of a righteous hero today, only to become the nightmare of the righteous tomorrow. And the best part? He would be rewarded either way.

"Balance… balance is the key."

It was laughable, really. The world sought to define people in black and white—heroes and villains, good and evil—but he had broken free of those labels. He was both, and yet neither. He could be the kind savior who earned admiration and respect, or the merciless tyrant who ruled through fear. The decision was his alone.

He would gain Hero Points for upholding justice, acting nobly, and saving people. At the same time, he could accumulate Villain Points by spreading terror, eliminating enemies, or causing destruction. And for every 100 points he gathered from either side, he would earn System Points—resources that allowed him to upgrade the system and enhance his abilities.

"A self-sustaining cycle…"

The more he played both roles, the more power he would gain. The stronger he became, the easier it would be to accumulate more points. Unlike others who had to pick a side and commit, he could simply adapt to any situation.

A righteous sect? He would act as the ideal disciple, earning Hero Points as he built his reputation.

A corrupt kingdom? He would become the villain it deserved, reaping Villain Points in the process.

He could even manipulate the same people multiple times. One day, he could save a village from bandits, earning Hero Points from their gratitude. The next, he could destroy that same village under a different identity, earning Villain Points in return. The possibilities were endless.

"This system is… perfect."

No protagonist he had ever read about had such freedom. They were either the shining beacon of justice or the embodiment of darkness. Their systems dictated their choices, punishing deviation from their assigned paths. But for him? He dictated the rules.

He was the master of his own fate.

"A single path is too boring. Why not enjoy both?"

A thought crossed my mind. "Then, does that mean there are others like me? People with systems?"

There was a brief silence before the system responded.

[Yes. Throughout the world, there exist individuals who have been granted systems of their own. Some may aid heroes, others may guide villains, and some may walk their own unique path. The nature of their systems varies—some enhance their abilities, some grant them items, and others influence fate itself.]

I narrowed my eyes. So I wasn't the only one with an advantage.

"But what happens when two system holders clash?"

[The result depends on their choices and how they use their systems. Some will rise, others will fall. However, Host, remember this—the world has a way of balancing itself. Those who gain too much power too quickly often attract an equally terrifying force.]

"Mmm, quite good, I think," I mused aloud, stretching my limbs lazily.

I needed a plan.

The system's voice interrupted my thoughts once more.

[System Prompt: Host, if you want to see your status, please say 'Status.']

"Status," I commanded.

A shimmering blue display appeared before me, detailing my current state:

[STATUS:

Name: Li Feng Yun

System Points: 0

Hero Points: 0

Villain Points: 0

Talent: Dark Blue 

Hidden Trait: Fear

Fear grants the host the ability to inflict unconditional fear upon weaker opponents, making them unable to resist or oppose you. Against stronger opponents, the effect is reduced but still present. Activation requires that the target perceives you as superior. As this trait levels up, the host can inflict fear on multiple targets simultaneously.

Usage: 5 meters (upgradable)

Soul Bound Ability

Metal Manipulator:

A telekinetic ability that allows the host to manipulate and control any form of metal, including weapons and objects made from metal or rock. The amount and complexity of metal that can be controlled depends on weight. As the ability upgrades using system points, the host can gain enhanced control, sharper manipulation, and even the ability to sense and locate metals in the surrounding area.

Usage: 10 meters (upgradable)

Teleport:

The ability to instantly teleport to any location within the host's line of sight and within a limited distance. This ability requires the host to visually lock onto the destination. Distance and speed of teleportation can be upgraded with system points.

Usage:1/1 per day (upgradable)

System Points can be earned by completing system tasks and can be used to upgrade abilities.]

I stared at the display, absorbing every detail.

A sudden thought struck me. My talent… It was originally blue, wasn't it? But now…

"System, why has my talent changed to Dark Blue?"

[Host's soul has a unique nature due to its past existence. When integrating with this body, Host's powerful soul enhanced the foundation of the vessel, resulting in an increase in talent. This is an extremely rare occurrence, as talent is typically fixed from birth and does not change. However, due to Host's circumstances, the body's affinity with cultivation has been optimized, raising the talent grade to Dark Blue.]

I narrowed my eyes, considering the implications. Talent determined cultivation speed. The higher the grade, the faster one could absorb Qi, refine it, and break through realms. Most disciples in the sect likely had Green or Light Blue talents, struggling for years to advance. With Dark Blue, I was now significantly above average.

"Hah, not bad," I muttered, my smirk widening. "This means I won't have to grind like a mere mortal. The path to power just became a lot smoother."

Still, it wasn't enough. Above Dark Blue, there were surely higher grades, talents belonging to true geniuses. But for now, this would do. After this thought he gone to the hidden trait.

Fear... an ability that forces opponents to tremble at my presence. Limited by their perception of me, but that's easy enough. All I have to do is show them that I'm superior, and their own minds will do the rest. The stronger they are, the harder it will be—but who cares? Weaklings will crumble instantly, and the strong... well, making them submit will be even sweeter. Imagine a genius cultivator, renowned and untouchable, brought to his knees by nothing but my existence. Delicious. And with upgrades, I could make entire sects bow without lifting a finger.

My eyes gleamed as I moved to Metal Manipulator.

At first glance, it's... average. Telekinesis limited to metal? I was expecting something more grand. But... wait. Metal is everywhere in a cultivation world. Weapons, armor, even spiritual treasures. With this, any sword in a fight is mine. Their weapons will betray them, their defenses will crumble, and their precious treasures will serve me. I'll become a walking arsenal. And the sensing ability... I'll never be caught off guard. Upgrade this, and maybe I'll be able to forge my own weapons mid-battle. The possibilities are endless.

Teleport caught my attention next.

A short-range blink. Limited to my line of sight for now, but that's hardly a downside. Instant repositioning means I'll never be cornered, never trapped. A perfect tool for ambushes and retreats. With upgrades, I could blink behind someone mid-attack or vanish before an enemy strikes. And eventually... long-distance teleportation. Who could touch me then? Who could escape me?

A realization settled over me as I reviewed my abilities. Fear, Metal Manipulator, Teleport—each one powerful, versatile. With these, I was already far beyond the average cultivator.

I folded my arms, smirking. "System, these abilities… You gave them to me, didn't you?" It only made sense. A cheat-like system granting me power after transmigration? That was the usual trope, wasn't it?

But the system's response was unexpected.

[Negative. These powers are not granted by the system. They originate from Host's soul.]

I frowned. "My soul?"

[Correct. Host's soul is a remnant of an unknown deity. These abilities are not artificial but rather the foundational powers of that deity. They were always yours, merely locked away due to the limitations of your past world. Your previous world lacked Qi, Mana, or any higher energy. If such forces had existed, Host would have been able to harness these abilities even before transmigration. However, the rules of that world suppressed them.]

I processed the information in silence. So… I wasn't just some ordinary transmigrator with a lucky system. I was once something else. Someone—something—far beyond mortal comprehension.

That explained why my soul was strong enough to endure transmigration without shattering. It also meant I had only just scratched the surface of my true potential.

But there was more. "You said 'an unknown deity.' You don't know who I was?"

[Affirmative. The records of your past identity are lost. However, many deities sought your soul, deeming it valuable. To protect you, the system extracted you from their grasp and carried you to this world—a place where your soul could thrive.]

Satisfied with my abilities, I turned my attention back to the status panel. My gaze fell on two unfamiliar terms—Hero Points and Villain Points.

I narrowed my eyes. "System, explain Hero Points and Villain Points in detail."

The system's mechanical voice responded immediately.

[Hero Points and Villain Points are part of the world's balance system. Heroes and villains are bound by the world's order, and their fate is dictated by their respective points.]

[Hero Points function as a protective force for heroes. The higher the Hero Points, the harder they are to kill. If a hero has 500 Hero Points, an opponent with fewer than 500 Villain Points will find it nearly impossible to kill them. The world itself will interfere—coincidences, lucky escapes, divine intervention—all will come into play to ensure their survival. Only by surpassing their Hero Points with an equal or greater amount of Villain Points can they be slain.]

I raised an eyebrow. "So, if I try to kill a hero with more Hero Points than my Villain Points, I'll just be blocked by fate?"

[Correct. Similarly, Villain Points work the same way. A villain with 500 Villain Points cannot be killed by someone with fewer than 500 Hero Points. The world naturally favors heroes, but villains with high enough points are still difficult to kill.]

I smirked. "So, it's all about domination. Heroes gain power by crushing villains. Villains gain power by crushing heroes. A perfect cycle of strength."

[However, villains and villainesses are different from heroes and heroines.]

I frowned. "Explain."

[Heroes and heroines are connected by Hero Points. If a heroine is taken or killed, her affiliated hero suffers. However, villains and villainesses are independent. Killing a villainess only grants her specific Villain Points, not those of any other villain.]

[Villains do not work together like heroes do. In this world, villains always act as individuals. Only in rare cases, such as critical moments or major plots, will a small villain assist a bigger villain. But in the end, the small villain is always a stepping stone—discarded as useless or crushed by the hero. The world order ensures that villains betray and eliminate each other.]

I laughed softly. "So even villains don't have unity. They're all doomed to be stepping stones. How amusing."

This world truly was designed for conflict. But the best part?

I was an anomaly. Neither a hero nor a villain.

I chuckled softly before letting out a long sigh. "Mmm... after thinking about it for a while, what a headache. I'm already exhausted. The system's good, sure, but isn't this too much? Look, I was both a hero and a villain in my past life. I can be both. Who even cares about these labels?"

I stretched lazily. "I'll just walk my own path. That's simpler. If anyone dares to humiliate me or do something I dislike, well... they're dead. Simple as that. But hunting down every hero, heroine, or villain? Nah, too much work."

A smirk tugged at my lips. "I've got good abilities. I'll just do some minor things, improve my cultivation, and watch all these heroes and villains dance around. If they don't bother me, I'll leave them be. If they're decent, maybe I'll even help them by befriending them. But cross me..." I chuckled darkly. "They won't even know what hit them."