The First Step

Seo-Jun sat cross-legged on the training square, the cultivation sutra resting in his lap. Around him, the other participants were already deep in meditation, their faces calm but focused. He glanced at the sutra, its pages filled with intricate characters that seemed to shimmer faintly under the sunlight.

The system's voice echoed in his mind, clear and precise:

[New Skill Detected: Basic Meditation Sutra (Human Level)]

[Objective: Read the Sutra.]

[Reward: 10% Mastery.]

Taking a deep breath, Seo-Jun opened the sutra and began to read. The characters were unfamiliar, but as his eyes scanned the pages, he felt a strange connection forming. The system's interface flickered in his vision, translating the ancient text into something he could understand.

[System Assistance Activated.]

[Translating Sutra…]

[Focus on the flow of Qi within your body.]

Seo-Jun closed his eyes, following the system's instructions. He focused on his breathing, imagining a warm energy—Qi—flowing through his body. At first, it was faint, almost imperceptible, but as he continued to meditate, the sensation grew stronger.

Minutes passed, and the world around him faded away. All that remained was the rhythm of his breath and the steady flow of Qi. The system's notifications popped up intermittently, guiding him:

[Qi Circulation Detected.]

But it wasn't easy. The sutra's teachings were complex, and maintaining focus required immense mental discipline. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he pushed through the mental strain, determined to succeed.

Just as he felt his concentration wavering, the system's voice chimed in:

[Objective Complete: Sutra Read.]

[Reward: 10% Mastery Added.]

[Current Mastery: 10% (Novice Level)]

A warm surge of energy flowed through Seo-Jun's body, and his mind felt clearer than ever. The sutra's teachings, once confusing, now made perfect sense. He could feel the Qi circulating within him, stronger and more controlled than before.

Opening his eyes, he noticed that the incense stick burning nearby was only halfway done. Many of the other participants were struggling, their faces twisted in frustration or exhaustion. A few had already given up, their sutras discarded beside them.

Seo-Jun allowed himself a small smile. The system had given him a boost, but it was his effort and determination that had carried him this far. He closed his eyes again, determined to make the most of the remaining time.

When the incense stick finally burned out, the man in the square clapped his hands, signaling the end of the test. "Time's up. Those who maintained their meditation for the full duration, step forward."

Seo-Jun stood, his legs slightly stiff from sitting for so long. He glanced at Zhong Yi, who gave him a thumbs-up and a relieved grin. Together, they stepped forward with a handful of other participants.

The man walked among them, his sharp eyes evaluating each candidate. When he reached Seo-Jun, he paused, studying him closely. "You…" he said, his voice low. "Your Qi is steady, and your focus is strong. Not bad for a beginner."

Seo-Jun bowed slightly, trying to hide his excitement. "Thank you, sir."

The man nodded and moved on. After a few moments, he addressed the group. "Congratulations. You've passed the first test. But remember, this is only the beginning. The path of cultivation is long and arduous. Rest now, for tomorrow's test will be even more challenging."

As the crowd dispersed, Seo-Jun felt a mix of relief and anticipation. He had passed the first test, but he knew this was just the first step on a much longer journey. The system's voice echoed in his mind once more:

[New Objective: Prepare for the Next Test.]

[Recommended Action: Practice Qi Circulation to Increase Mastery.]

Zhong Yi clapped him on the back, grinning. "You did it, Seo-Jun! I knew you had it in you."

Seo-Jun smiled back, but his mind was already racing. The system had given him a tool, but it was up to him to make the most of it. As they walked away from the training square, he felt a newfound sense of purpose. This was his second chance, and he wasn't going to waste it.

As the sun set, Seo-Jun and Zhong Yi returned to the Crescent Moon Abode Located at the Outskirts of Lingyun City. The orphanage was quiet, the other children already asleep. Seo-Jun went to his room, determined to understand the system better.

After some investigation, he realized the system wouldn't give him items or techniques for free. Instead, it would help him master skills through hard work and practice.

Seo-Jun spent the night practicing the Basic Meditation Sutra, cycling Qi through his body. He followed the system's guidance, refining his Qi circulation with every breath. Just as the first rays of sunlight appeared, he felt a surge of energy. His body trembled as the Qi within him condensed, forming a stable foundation.

[Breakthrough Achieved: Qi Condensation Stage 1.]

[Skill: Basic Meditation Sutra (Human Level-Low Tier)]

[Current Mastery: 35% (Apprentice Level)]

Seo-Jun opened his eyes, feeling stronger than ever. His body felt lighter, his senses sharper. He stepped out of his room, a confident smile on his face. Zhong Yi was waiting for him.

"Ready for the second test?" Zhong Yi asked.

"More than ready," Seo-Jun replied.

At the training square, fewer participants remained. The man from yesterday stood in the center, holding a glowing crystal orb. "Today, we test your spiritual talent," he announced. "Line up, and let the orb reveal your potential."

The participants lined up nervously. The orb would glow in different colors, ranking their talent from Grade 9 (lowest) to Grade 1 (highest).

One by one, the participants stepped forward. Most received Grades 7 to 5, their orbs glowing faint blue or green. A few got Grade 4, their orbs shining brighter. No one scored higher.

When it was Seo-Jun's turn, he stepped forward, his heart racing. The man placed his hand on the orb. For a moment, nothing happened. Then, the orb glowed a deep, vibrant red.

"Grade 3," the man said, his voice firm. "Fire affinity. A rare spark indeed." He paused, studying Seo-Jun closely. "And you've already reached Qi Condensation Stage 1?"

Seo-Jun nodded. "Yes, sir. I practiced all night."

The man's expression softened slightly. "To break through in a single night… you have the heart of a cultivator. Remember this: talent is a flame, but discipline is the wind that fans it. Do not let it burn out."

Seo-Jun bowed. "I won't, sir."

The man nodded. "Step back. Let us see what the others have to offer."

Seo-Jun rejoined the line, his mind racing. The system's voice echoed in his mind:

[New Affinity Detected: Fire (Grade 3)]

[Potential Unlocked: Fire-Based Techniques.]

Zhong Yi grinned at him. "Grade 3 and Qi Condensation Stage 1? You're on fire, Seo-Jun!"

Seo-Jun stayed humble. "It's just the beginning. I still have a long way to go."

After the last participant was tested, the man addressed the group. "Those who passed today's test have proven their potential. Tomorrow, you will depart for the Blazing Sword Sect, where your true journey begins. Prepare yourselves, for the path ahead is not for the faint of heart."

The participants murmured excitedly. Seo-Jun felt a mix of excitement and pressure. His high grade and breakthrough set him apart, but they also meant higher expectations. With the system's guidance and his own determination, he was ready to take the next step.

As they left the square, Zhong Yi clapped Seo-Jun on the back. "This is it, Seo-Jun. Tomorrow, we become sect disciples!"

Seo-Jun smiled, but his mind was already racing. The Blazing Sword Sect awaited, and with it, new challenges and opportunities.

The man spoke one last time, his voice echoing like a bell. "Talent is but a seed. Without the soil of effort and the rain of perseverance, it will never bear fruit."

Authors Note: 

Hello everyone! I hope you enjoyed this chapter. As a new author, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Is the pacing working for you? Too fast, too slow, or just right? Your feedback means a lot and will help me improve as I continue this journey.

Thank you for reading, and if you're enjoying the story so far, please consider supporting me! Your encouragement keeps me motivated to write more. See you in the next chapter!