Shiv's abilities had taken a sharp turn after his encounter with the Sword of Sacrifice. While his strength continued to grow with every sacrifice of lifespan, he sensed something deeper was awakening within him. The eternal life he possessed seemed boundless, and now it was manifesting in new, unforeseen ways.
One afternoon, during meditation, Shiv was pulled into a trance-like state. His consciousness drifted into a strange realm, where shadows and whispers enveloped him. Out of the darkness, a figure emerged—ancient and wise, with eyes that gleamed with the knowledge of countless lifetimes.
"You have harnessed your life for strength," the voice said, echoing around him, "but what if you could harness it for more than just yourself? The path you walk is not one of selfish immortality. You can share this gift with others... if you choose."
The figure leaned closer, and Shiv felt an unsettling chill in the air.
**"Through the most intimate of connections, you may transfer your life force to another. Bestow vitality, prolong life, and even enhance the power of those you share yourself with. But beware, this power is not without risk."**
Shiv's vision faded, leaving him back in his room, the voice still echoing in his ears. The weight of this new revelation sat heavy in his chest. He could now transfer his lifespan, and potentially much more, to another through physical intimacy. It was a potent ability, but also a dangerous one.
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### A Growing Power
As days passed, Shiv became increasingly aware of the complexity of his eternal life powers. His connection to the Sword of Sacrifice had opened up a whole new dimension of strength and cost, yet this new ability—this **Vital Essence Transfer**—was something entirely different.
With this skill, he could give his lifespan to others, extending their lives, healing them, or even empowering their cultivation temporarily. But, unlike the Sword of Sacrifice, this was not a power to be flaunted openly. He needed to be careful—such a gift could lead to exploitation or even worse, should the wrong people discover it.
Shiv decided to keep this secret close to his chest. For now, only he would know of this ability, and he would only reveal it to those he trusted with his life—and perhaps, even his heart.
But with the knowledge of this skill lingering in the back of his mind, Shiv could feel that the time to test it would soon be upon him. **Hu Mei'er** had been getting closer to him, her gratitude for saving her life blossoming into something deeper, more emotional.
There was a charged atmosphere whenever she was near, and Shiv knew instinctively that their relationship was reaching a turning point. But for now, he would wait, allowing the natural flow of events to unfold.
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Days passed in the sect, and Shiv continued to train and cultivate, keeping his new abilities a closely guarded secret. He interacted with his peers, and the bond he shared with the Hu sisters grew stronger with each passing day. **Hu Mei'er**, in particular, spent more time in his company, and their connection deepened in a way that went beyond mere gratitude.
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### Preparing for the Test
After several encounters that solidified his bond with Hu Mei'er, Shiv felt ready to test his new ability. The visions and dreams had become clearer, guiding him toward this moment.
Though the method was intimate, Shiv could sense that it would offer him great power. More than just enhancing others, it could become a crucial tool for building trust and alliances. But he would need to tread carefully.
At some point soon, he would have to try transferring his life force, just as the ancient figure had shown him. However, this was not a skill to be used lightly, and the potential risks weighed on him. If misused, it could lead to serious consequences for both himself and the recipient.
As Shiv thought over these revelations, the sect stirred with activity. Rumors of a hidden treasure—a **medicine garden**—had begun to spread. It was said to hold powerful spiritual herbs that could elevate a cultivator's strength, and naturally, every disciple wanted a piece of it. Shiv's thoughts drifted toward the garden, sensing that this opportunity could bring him closer to testing his new abilities in a way that would benefit him and those closest to him.
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In the next chapter, Shiv will take the first step toward unlocking the true potential of **Vital Essence Transfer**, while the sect's hunt for the medicine garden adds a layer o
intrigue to his journey.
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