As Reece continued to immerse himself in the teachings and practices of the Jao sect, his desire for personal growth and to test his abilities grew stronger. He believed that venturing into the perilous Demon Forest, rumored to be inhabited by formidable demon beasts, would provide the perfect challenge to push his limits. And also, the thought of hunting for more demon meat and the more the merrier as he wanted more demon cores in order to advance the body refining stage. Reece was cultivating a new way of cultivation through the Tao soul as the rest of the cultivators used the 7 by 2-stage cultivators' way. That was the occasioned way that many cultivators used to advance to immortality but for Reece he had never laid a foundation in that very way, and it was clear that it had long passed as he did not possess any elemental power and it was something that he would always keep it a secret from everyone.
With utmost respect, Reece approached the sect's elders to request permission to enter the Demon Forest and hunt a total of 100 demon beasts. It was a bold and ambitious undertaking, but Reece believed it would not only strengthen his own cultivation but also benefit the sect as a whole as he would in turn earn a great reputation for the sect.
Elder Xian, the sect's supreme elder, listened to Reece's request thoughtfully and acknowledged the potential benefits of such an endeavor. "Reece, your determination is commendable," he said, "but the Demon Forest is a treacherous place, and even our most seasoned cultivators tread carefully within its depths. Are you certain you are prepared for this challenge?"
Reece nodded solemnly. "I understand the risks, Elder Xian, but I believe that by overcoming the trials of the Demon Forest, I can contribute to the strength of our sect and further my own cultivation. I ask for your guidance and approval."
Before Elder Xian could respond, Lian, the sect senior disciple who had challenged Reece before, stepped forward with a vindictive glint in his eyes. "Elder Xian, I must interject," he declared, his voice dripping with hostility. "Reece is a newcomer, and he has already shown a lack of respect for our traditions. Allowing him into the Demon Forest is a grave mistake. He will not return, and his recklessness will bring shame to our sect."
Elder Xian regarded Lian with a stern expression but remained impartial. "Lian, it is not your place to decide Reece's fate. The decision rests with the sect leaders and myself."
Undeterred, Lian continued his tirade, attempting to sway the elders with his influence and status within the sect. "I am certain, Elder Xian, that I am not alone in my concerns. Many of our fellow disciples share my doubts about Reece's loyalty and intentions."
Elder Xian's gaze hardened, and he addressed Lian firmly. "Lian, your words are noted, but we are a sect of fairness and opportunity. Reece has earned his place among us through his actions and willingness to share his knowledge. If he wishes to undertake this challenge, it is his right as a disciple of the Jao sect."
With that, Elder Xian turned his attention back to Reece and nodded. "Very well, Reece. You have my permission to enter the Demon Forest and hunt the demon beasts. But remember, this is a perilous journey, and you must exercise caution at all times."
As Reece prepared to embark on his dangerous quest, the tension between him and Lian remained palpable. Lian's attempt to intervene had failed, but it was clear that the senior disciple was not willing to let the matter rest. Reece knew that he would have to tread carefully not only within the Demon Forest but also within the complex dynamics of the Jao sect itself.
Lian's determination to deal with Reece had not waned, despite his failed attempt to prevent Reece from entering the Demon Forest. Seeking support, he approached his own family, who were influential figures within the Jao sect.
Lian's family was known for their long-standing history in the sect and their connections with many powerful elders. They held considerable sway, and Lian hoped that they would assist him in his quest to thwart Reece's ambitions.
However, to his surprise and dismay, Lian's family did not share his animosity toward Reece. They recognized Reece's potential and the benefits he brought to the sect. Moreover, they knew of the potential of Reece, and they didn't want to make an enemy of him for the sake of one member and going against him is more like declaring war on almost every family and sect that sought to recruit him.
Lian's pleas fell on deaf ears as his family refused to use their influence to hinder Reece's journey. They reminded him of the importance of unity within the sect and the need to prioritize the family's welfare over personal vendettas.
Frustrated and isolated, Lian realized that he would have to confront Reece on his own terms if he wanted to achieve his goals. With newfound determination, he set out to devise a plan that would not only undermine Reece but also preserve his own standing within the Jao sect.
As Reece ventured deeper into the Demon Forest on his quest to hunt 100 demon beasts, he remained unaware of the brewing conflict and the enmity that Lian harbored. Desperate to eliminate Reece and thwart his ambitions within the Jao sect, Lian turned to a dark and secretive faction for assistance—the Martial Asura Sect. This underground organization was notorious for its ruthless assassins and covert operations, and they operated outside the boundaries of the sects' rules and principles.
Lian sought out a shadowy figure within the Martial Asura Sect, a master assassin known only as Shadow blade (was ranked 10th on the Asura list which had three stages of ranking assassins the Asura list was the lowest but still the assassins on the list were all capable). Shadow blade was renowned for his discretion and deadly efficiency. Lian, fueled by his desire to remove Reece from the equation, made a clandestine deal with Shadow blade, offering wealth and influence in exchange for the assassination of Reece.
Shadow blade accepted the contract, recognizing the significant payout and the opportunity to establish a foothold within the Jao sect. He and his network of skilled assassins began to gather intelligence on Reece's whereabouts and habits, preparing for the perfect moment to strike.
Meanwhile, Reece continued his perilous journey within the Demon Forest, completely unaware of the deadly plot that was unfolding against him. He faced countless challenges, battling fierce demon beasts and pushing his cultivation to new heights with each confrontation.
As the days turned into weeks, the tension within the Jao sect grew palpable. Lian watched and waited, hoping that Shadow blade and his assassins would execute their plan flawlessly and remove Reece from the sect once and for all. The fate of Reece and the future of the Jao sect hung in the balance, as the shadows of intrigue and deception threatened to engulf them all.