Lyra stared at Rylan, her mind racing. The raw power he had displayed, the casual way he had dispatched the Dire Wolf, was a stark contradiction to everything she had known. Her life in Oakhaven was predictable, hard-won, and limited. His words, however, painted a picture of a future unbound: true security, power, and a destiny that stretched far beyond the village's humble borders. Elara's unwavering, almost reverent gaze at Rylan was another silent testament.
She was independent, yes, but her self-reliance had only ever led her to a life of perpetual struggle against the elements, against the Baron's demands, against the constant threat of the wild. Rylan offered a different kind of reliance—reliance on his power, which seemed limitless.
"A path to power?" Lyra finally asked, her voice quiet, almost wary. "What kind of power? And what would I... what would I have to do?" Her sharp mind, accustomed to bargaining and clear exchanges, needed specifics.
Rylan met her gaze, a subtle, confident smile playing on his lips. "The power to not fear the wilds, Lyra. The power to stand against those who would exploit you. As for what you would do... you would be a part of my journey. You would lend your talents, your resourcefulness, and in return, you would share in the strength that I gain. Our fates would become intertwined." He didn't use the term "dual cultivation" explicitly, preferring to let the System guide the true reveal, but the implication was clear enough for a world where such rumors existed.
Lyra looked from Rylan to Elara, then back to Rylan. The vision he offered was intoxicating, a stark contrast to the grueling reality of Oakhaven. Her ambition, long suppressed by necessity, stirred within her. She was tired of simply surviving.
[Ding! Conquest Requirement (Lyra): "Provide a compelling vision for her future" — Completed!][Ding! First Dual Cultivation Bonus with Lyra Activated! Foundation Establishment (Mid-Stage to Late-Stage), Minor Mana Affinity, Harem Slot +1, "Herbal Lore" (Basic Knowledge Skill).]
A sudden, intense warmth surged through Rylan's Dantian, much stronger and more refined than the last time. He felt the spiritual energy within him condense, becoming denser, more potent. His connection to the world around him, the flow of spiritual essence, became even clearer. He had reached Foundation Establishment (Late-Stage).
Lyra swayed slightly, her hand flying to her chest. Her eyes widened, a look of profound shock and wonder replacing her earlier wariness. She felt a subtle, yet undeniable, hum deep within her. It wasn't as intense as Elara's initial awakening, but it was a distinct activation, a blossoming of the spiritual potential that had lain dormant within her. Her Minor Mana Affinity was also instinctively felt—a slight pull towards the subtle energies of nature.
"What was that?" she breathed, her voice filled with newfound awe.
"That, Lyra," Rylan said, stepping closer, his voice soft but resonant with power, "was the beginning. The beginning of your true potential. The beginning of our shared journey." He extended his hand, and this time, there was no hesitation as she placed hers in his.
The Harem System pulsed again, completing the process.
[Lyra has been added to your Harem!][Harem: 2/3]
Rylan felt a profound sense of satisfaction. The second flower. Each acquisition felt like unlocking a new layer of his power, a deeper connection to the System's potential. He was no longer "Pathetic" or even "Novice." His status, though not displayed publicly, was rapidly ascending.
He then took a moment to address Kael, who stood a little distance away, having witnessed the exchange with a mixture of confusion and growing respect. "Elder Kael," Rylan said, his tone authoritative yet still polite, "The Dire Wolf is dealt with. Its pelt and meat will provide a bounty for Oakhaven. We will assist with the path further, and with the harvest. Consider us long-term guests for now."
Kael, seeing the effortless way Rylan had dispatched the Dire Wolf, and the undeniable aura of power that now radiated from him, simply nodded, a deep sense of relief washing over his face. "Any help is welcome, young Master Rylan. Any help at all. Oakhaven is safer with you here."
Rylan then turned his attention to the practicalities. The Dire Wolf's carcass was too large to carry easily. "Elara, Lyra, we need to dress the wolf. The villagers can help us carry it back. Lyra, your knowledge of herbs, it will be invaluable. Perhaps you know of ways to preserve the meat, or use the glands?"
Lyra, still processing the spiritual awakening, nodded slowly. "Yes, Master Rylan. I know. We can use rock salt for curing, and certain herbs will draw out the freshness. The glands... they can be used for various tinctures, some for healing, some for more... potent effects." Her eyes, though still wide, held a new depth, a spark of awakened purpose.
The sun began to set as they returned to Oakhaven, the Dire Wolf carcass being carried triumphantly by several strong villagers, overseen by a now-commanding Rylan. His earlier "weary traveler" persona had evaporated, replaced by the natural bearing of someone destined for greatness. The villagers whispered, their fear of the beast replaced by awe and gratitude for the mysterious newcomer.
Rylan knew this was just the beginning. Oakhaven was a small step, a secure base from which to operate. He had two Harem members, each contributing to his power, each with their own unique aptitudes. He had information about the Jade Empire, his ultimate target.
The Lustful Emperor was building his foundation, one conquest, one power-up, and one village at a time. The path to godhood, fueled by desire, was now firmly underway.
End of chapter 10