The news of Zenin's breakthrough into the Foundation Establishment Realm rippled through Shang Academy like a thunderclap. In a span of weeks, the weakest outer disciple had become one of its most dangerous students.
Most saw it as a miracle.
The wise knew better.
In the corner of the library, Instructor Yao stroked his beard. "There's something off about that boy… His cultivation is too precise, too ruthless."
---
Zenin walked the academy courtyard like a shadow. No cheers welcomed him, no hand was offered. Fear had taken root. And fear, he knew, was power.
"Zenin," a voice called out.
He turned. It was Liu Fan, the top-ranked student and a direct heir to the Liu family.
"We'll face each other soon," Liu Fan said calmly. "I look forward to seeing your strength up close."
Zenin simply nodded, "If you last long enough to witness it."
---
Meanwhile, in the Zhen estate, Lady Zhen stared into a mirror, her reflection warped by the dark candlelight.
"He's become a threat."
A man in a black cloak stood silently beside her. "Shall we proceed?"
"No… not yet. I want him to rise a little more. The higher he climbs, the farther he'll fall. For now, Yun'er must keep up appearances."
---
Back in his dorm, Zenin sat cross-legged. His body pulsed with stable Foundation Qi, but his mind wandered back… to the moment his disciples betrayed him.
> "They wept as they stabbed me. Cowards disguised in loyalty."
> "This time, I will embrace betrayal with open arms—so I may cut deeper when the blade turns."
He smiled faintly.
He could feel it now. Something was moving in the dark. Poison in his food. Shadows at his door.
Let them come.
---