---
The crimson sky faded slowly into twilight, painting the horizon with bruised purples and deepening shadows. The temple ruins lay silent once more, but Zaen's heart thundered like war drums in his chest. The arrival of the Black Serpent Sect cultivators was a stark reminder—this world demanded strength, or it would swallow you whole.
Zaen flexed his fingers, feeling the faint pulse of power radiate from the sigil on his chest. It was a tether to the bloodline he had inherited, a link to centuries of warriors who had once commanded respect and fear. But today, Zaen was weak. Mortal. Fragile.
His thoughts drifted back to Earth — a world so distant it felt like a fading dream. The life he left behind was simple, ordinary, without the endless hunger for power and survival that defined this realm. Here, strength wasn't just a measure of ability; it was life itself.
---
🜂 [System Notification] 🜂
🔔 Incoming Message: Sect disciple approaching.
📈 Sect Resonance: +5%
📢 System Message: "A disciple's breakthrough extends your borrowed time."
---
Zaen's eyes narrowed. The system was reminding him: this was not a solitary fight. The legacy depended on disciples — loyal followers whose growth fueled the sect's power and extended Zaen's remaining lifespan.
A rustle from the trees drew his attention. Emerging from the shadows was a young man, clad in tattered robes but with eyes burning bright with determination. His steps were hesitant but resolute.
---
"Master Zaen," the disciple called out, bowing low. "I've returned with the spiritual herbs you requested. The temple's northern ley line is still strong — perfect for cultivation."
Zaen's lips curled into a faint smile. The disciple's loyalty was a flicker of hope in this desolate place.
---
"Good," Zaen said, voice low but firm. "Prepare yourself. Today, you will attempt your breakthrough."
The disciple's eyes widened, a mixture of excitement and fear. In this world, breakthroughs were monumental — moments where cultivators shattered their limits and ascended to new realms. But failure often meant collapse, or worse.
Zaen closed his eyes and focused inward. The sigil on his chest pulsed gently, syncing with his heartbeat. Through the system, he could monitor his disciple's energy flow and guide him.
---
🜂 [System Interface Activated] 🜂
📊 Disciple Status: Ready
🌿 Spiritual Herbs: In Inventory
📢 System Message: "Focus your energy. Aid your disciple's cultivation. Every success adds to sect resonance and extends your life."
---
Zaen opened his eyes and placed a hand over the disciple's head, channeling spiritual energy through the connection.
The disciple's body trembled as waves of energy surged through him. His eyes fluttered shut, teeth clenched against the strain. Outside, the ley line's glow intensified, weaving golden threads into the temple ruins.
Suddenly, the disciple gasped, eyes snapping open. A brilliant light erupted around him as his cultivation broke through the mortal foundation and pierced into the next realm — the Qi Condensation stage.
---
🜂 [System Notification] 🜂
🎉 Breakthrough Successful!
⏳ Remaining Lifespan Extended: +30 days
📈 Sect Resonance Increased: +10%
📢 System Message: "Your disciple's success fuels your legacy. Use this power wisely."
Zaen felt a surge of energy ripple through his own body. The system's promise was real—this breakthrough had gifted him precious additional time.
---
"Good," Zaen murmured. "You've taken the first step. But there are many trials ahead."
Outside, shadows stirred. The Black Serpent Sect cultivators had not left. Their presence was a looming threat, a constant reminder that Zaen's enemies would not rest.
---
The disciple looked up at Zaen, eyes fierce. "Master, I will fight to protect our sect."
Zaen's gaze hardened. "Then prepare yourself. Our enemies grow stronger each day. So must we."
The night deepened, the temple ruins alive with silent power and whispered promises. Zaen stood amidst the shadows, the sigil on his chest glowing softly.
---
One year. The timer was still counting down.
But now, with each disciple's breakthrough, that time could stretch longer.
The legacy was alive — and Zaen's fight had only just begun.