Chapter 156 - 10-16

Chapter 010 - Makeshift Pill Refining

On the third day, Rinne found herself inside her hiding cave, staring at the crude stone cauldron in front of her.

She had spent the entire night carving this cauldron from a large boulder, using her worn-out knife as a chisel. Normally, such a knife wouldn't have lasted long under such intense use, but Rinne had a trick up her sleeve.

Through the knowledge she had acquired from countless sword cultivators, she managed to condense a sliver of sword intent, infusing the knife with a sharpness that made it cut through the stone like it was mere mud.

The process was taxing, however, and it drained her mental strength significantly. Each strike of the knife against the stone resonated in her mind, echoing the disciplined focus of a blade master, but it came at a steep cost. By the time she finished carving the cauldron, her mind was reeling from exhaustion.

In the end, she was forced to consume the healing pills she had obtained as a reward from the second trial just to keep herself from collapsing. Although healing pills were very valuable to some people, but to Rinne, this type of pill was no big deal and she could refine them at any time, as long as the ingredients and tools were available.

One by one, the pills disappeared into her mouth, mending the mental strain, but by the time dawn approached, her supply was depleted.

Rinne sighed as she wiped the sweat from her brow, her gaze fixed on the completed cauldron and the stone stove she had crafted alongside it. Relief washing over her despite her exhaustion.

'At least it's done,'

The cauldron, while crude, would serve its purpose, and the stone stove was sturdy enough to hold it in place.

However, the next problem loomed before her—fire. As a 7 year old without any cultivation, starting a fire to properly heat the cauldron was an insurmountable challenge, but Rinne had anticipated this. The previous night, she had devised a plan that she now intended to put to the test.

Taking a jar of thick tree sap, she began to draw a medium-sized formation on the ground, her strokes precise and deliberate. The sticky sap was an effective substitute for ink, and it adhered well to the cave floor. At the center of the formation, she placed a fireball talisman, positioning it carefully.

The formation she drew was similar in design to the blood talisman she had used earlier, meant to extract spiritual energy from an external source. This time, the target she chose for extraction was a Spirit Gathering Pill, also a reward from the second trial.

Once the formation was complete, Rinne placed the Spirit Gathering Pill at a specific point in the design, leaving one line of the formation deliberately unconnected. She took a deep breath before connecting the final line, knowing that this was a make-or-break moment.

As soon as the last line was connected, the formation activated. A low hum filled the cave as the Spirit Gathering Pill's energy was drawn into the formation, triggering the fireball talisman at its center. The talisman flared to life, and a ball of fire burst into existence above the stove.

Rinne's eyes widened slightly as she saw the flame. The experiment was a success, but the fire was larger than she had anticipated. It roared hungrily, the heat radiating fiercely through the cave.

She acted quickly, stomping down on the edge of the formation to sever the last line. The formation dimmed immediately, but the fireball talisman continued to burn. Rinne gritted her teeth as she hurried to put out the fire, using a combination of dirt and the last dregs of tree sap to smother the flames.

It took time and effort, but eventually, the fire was extinguished. Rinne slumped back, breathing heavily as she surveyed the scene. The part of the cave where she had chosen to conduct the experiment was charred, but thankfully the area had good air circulation. Otherwise, she might have risked oxygen deprivation or even worse.

'One fireball talisman and one Spirit Gathering Pill, wasted... But at least the experiment wasn't a total failure.'

Rinne leaned back against the cave wall, her mind already working on a new plan. The idea of using the fireball talisman was sound, but the execution needed refinement. The problem was controlling the fire's intensity—a task made difficult without proper cultivation to guide the talisman's power.

'Perhaps… I can adjust the formation to regulate the flow of spiritual energy, or maybe I can find another source of fuel that's more stable.'

Rinne needed only one test and trial to grasp the nature of the problem. The fire's uncontrollable intensity and the inefficient use of resources had highlighted a critical flaw in her approach. Recognizing this, she resolved to dive deeper into her understanding of formations and alchemy.

She closed her eyes and entered her soul library once again, a vast mental repository where she stored the knowledge and memories she had acquired from others. Her consciousness sifted through the memories of countless formation masters, studying their techniques, theories, and methodologies. However, she knew that the knowledge of formations alone wouldn't be enough. She needed to integrate this with her understanding of alchemy, adjusting the designs to accommodate the delicate processes involved in pill refinement.

Days seemed to pass as she immersed herself in study, carefully analyzing and cross-referencing the information. Yet, in the real world, only a short nap had passed. When she awoke, a wave of intense pain washed over her.

"Ugh, the price of knowledge..."

The headache was far more excruciating than before, a stark reminder of the toll this deep dive into her mind had on her body. Rinne clenched her teeth, willing herself to endure the pain. After a brief moment of rest, she gathered her strength and prepared to put her new plan into action.

First, she drew another formation on the ground, meticulously inscribing each line with the tree sap. This formation was designed to isolate the fire, preventing it from spreading and ensuring a constant, controlled temperature. She also added a crucial feature, a mechanism to turn the fire on and off at will, a failsafe to prevent another disaster like the last time.

But Rinne wasn't satisfied with just controlling the fire. She also incorporated a spiritual gathering formation into the design. This new addition would allow the formation to absorb the surrounding spiritual energy, using it to fuel itself, which meant she would only need to expend one Spirit Gathering Pill for the entire operation.

Yet, there was still more work to be done.

'Now, is the main event.'

Rinne retrieved the stone cauldron from her spatial bag and placed it before her.

With a worn-out knife in hand, she began to inscribe three formations on the surface of the stone cauldron. The first formation was meant to strengthen the cauldron, enabling it to endure intense heat and spiritual energy, while preventing medicinal energy from seeping into the stone.

Once that was completed, Rinne moved on to the next stage.

She carefully inscribed another formation on top of the first, one designed with a far more complex function. This second formation was intended to regulate the flow of spiritual energy within the cauldron based on the temperature, the intensity of the medicinal properties detected inside, and to prevent the loss of energy through evaporation, even without a lid. And then the third formation, a self-cleaning function to maintain it after each use.

In simple terms, Rinne had attempted to create a cauldron that could self-adjust to the various conditions of the medicinal materials within it.

She knew that her current state: powerless, without the ability to control spiritual energy, left her at a significant disadvantage. She was no longer the formidable evil cultivator with unmatched power, but a little girl who was still a mortal.

If she couldn't control the spiritual energy herself, then the cauldron would have to do it for her.

Of course, Rinne was fully aware that each pill recipe had different procedures and conditions. Attempting to create a cauldron that could self-adjust for every possible recipe was impossible with her current resources and knowledge. Therefore, she added another feature to the formation, a set of symbols that acted as buttons.

These symbols would allow her to turn the different functions of the formation on and off at the appropriate times, giving her a degree of manual control over the process.

'Good, I hope this will work.'

Satisfied with her work, Rinne stepped back to admire the intricate design she had etched onto the cauldron. The symbols and lines intertwined seamlessly, a testament to the fusion of her acquired knowledge and personal ingenuity. She placed the cauldron on the stone stove, carefully positioning the fireball talisman underneath it. The formation on the ground surrounded the setup, ready to be activated.

But before attempting to refine the Verdant Meridian Pill, Rinne decided to test her creation with something simpler, a basic healing pill. She knew that if this first attempt failed, it would be better to ruin a less valuable set of ingredients than the precious materials she had painstakingly gathered for the Verdant Meridian Pill.

With a deep breath, Rinne touched the symbol that activated the fireball talisman. The formation hummed to life, and the talisman ignited, producing a controlled flame that enveloped the base of the cauldron. She watched closely, her hand hovering over the other symbols, ready to adjust the formation as needed.

An hour had passed, and the refining of the healing pill had gone smoothly. Rinne observed the cauldron closely, watching as the medicinal ingredients mixed and merged together. The time had come to condense the mixture into a pill shape. With a careful tap on the symbol representing pill condensation, she watched as the blend of medicinal ingredients absorbed into a single point, rounding itself into a large pill.

Judging by the potent aroma that filled the cave, it seemed to be a top-grade pill. However, upon closer inspection, Rinne frowned. Although the medicinal properties were mostly correct, the pill was so large that it would be difficult to consume. This was a failure, despite the initial success.

'The pill's size needed to be much smaller and more manageable.'

Rinne quickly identified the issue: she should have adjusted the portion control during the condensation phase to maintain the pill's size. It wasn't a significant setback, though; she could fix it by carving additional formation lines that would inject the medicinal mixture only until the pill reached a certain size threshold.

With that in mind, Rinne stopped the formation and set to work on reworking the cauldron. She meticulously carved the new formation lines, tweaking the design to prevent the earlier mistake from happening again.

On her third attempt, she decided to refine a Spirit Gathering Pill. The process unfolded as smoothly as before, her adjustments working as intended. When the pill condensation process began, she watched as the pills were ejected one by one after reaching the precise size she had calibrated. This time, she produced ten middle-grade pills, a clear improvement in terms of control and accuracy.

However, she couldn't help but sigh at the results.

'This is not what I hoped.'

Although the pills were well-formed and evenly sized, they were only middle-grade. The force used to condense the pills had been insufficient, resulting in the medicinal properties inside each pill being less compact than she'd hoped. Additionally, the stone material of the cauldron caused some loss of medicinal potency during the refining process.

Once again, Rinne found herself hesitating. Should she risk refining the Verdant Meridian Pill under such imperfect conditions, or wait until she could join a sect and borrow their alchemy room? But it didn't take her long to make a decision.

"Proceed, I must proceed."

Even if she waited to join a sect, she knew she wouldn't be able to use this method in their alchemy room. It was unlikely any sect would allow an unknown outer disciple to draw unrecognized formations in their alchemy room, much less permit modifications to their cauldrons. Moreover, there was the looming threat of the yearly assessment, where being discovered without spiritual roots would be a significant risk.

Rinne gritted her teeth. Continuing with her current setup might result in lower-quality pills, and there was no guarantee of success. But it didn't matter. At worst, she would have to take multiple doses as long as the pills generated even a thread of spiritual root.

And if the pills failed entirely, she could always gather the materials again and start over.

Chapter 011 – Mirror Viewing Platform

Other POV:

The Mirror Viewing Platform was abuzz with activity.

Over a hundred elders from various sects gathered, each intently watching the mirrors displaying scenes from the ongoing third trial. The platform, a grand circular room lined with large, hovering mirrors, reflected different scenes of the trial, allowing the elders to assess the abilities and potential of the participants present.

The atmosphere was one of anticipation and evaluation, as the elders watched carefully, their voices a low murmur of commentary and analysis.

The participants, unaware of the trial's true purpose, were pushing their limits, each action observed and scrutinized by the powerful figures who would ultimately decide their futures.

"Look at the lad from the Verin clan, his talisman skills are quite impressive, especially for one so young. The way he activated that defensive talisman against the spiritual beast—swift and precise. He has a sharp mind for such things."

An elder from the Verdant Blade Sect remarked, his eyes fixed on the mirror displaying a young boy deftly handling talismans. If Rinne were here, she would have recognized this elder. His sect was the origin of the Verdant Meridian Pill, a recipe she was currently trying to reproduce.

Another elder from the Crimson Sun Sect agreed, his gaze shifting to a different mirror.

"Indeed, but take a look at the girl from the Leirin clan—she's manipulating fire with exceptional control. Her technique is refined beyond her years. If she continues at this pace, she could be a top contender for an inner disciple position."

"And what about the boy with the hammer? The one from the Tyren clan. His brute strength is one thing, but the way he's shaping that spiritual ore—it's almost like an art form. He has the potential to be a formidable blacksmith."

The elder from the Verdant Blade Sect nodded, but his attention was drawn to the boy who carried a hammer.

Another elder, this one from the Emberglow Sect, pointed to yet another mirror.

"Don't overlook the girl from the Shorn clan. Her agility and speed are remarkable, especially in that last bout against multiple opponents. She outmaneuvered them effortlessly, and her blade work is precise. If trained properly, she could become a deadly swordsman."

The elders continued to observe, each one making mental notes on the participants who caught their eye. The discussions were punctuated with nods of approval and occasional frowns of disappointment, as the elders weighed the strengths and weaknesses of each participant.

A gray-haired elder from the Earthshaker Sect noted.

"There's also that boy from the Halkon clan, he's not as flashy as the others, but his understanding of earth-based techniques is solid. He just used a terrain manipulation skill to trap a spiritual beast—simple, but effective. A reliable talent, if you ask me."

Elder Soryn from the Azure Sky Sect also sat among the gathering, though he remained silent.

His thoughts were elsewhere, specifically on Roran, whom he had recruited as soon as the second trial concluded. It was rare to find someone with a 90% purity single spiritual root of the fire attribute, and he was relieved that he had acted quickly. He watched the mirrors but didn't comment on the participants, content with his recent acquisition.

'It's a good thing I acted swiftly. If I had delayed even a moment, this boy might have entered the third trial, and who knows which sect would have claimed him? There's no telling how many others would have fought over him once they saw his potential.'

While Elder Soryn was absorbed in his thoughts, Roran's eyes remained glued to the mirrors, taking in the participants' actions. This was exactly as his memories had shown him: being recruited by Elder Soryn. As he scanned the faces in the mirrors, he recognized a few participants—some were rivals, others potential allies from his previous life.

A fleeting thought crossed his mind: Could the Calamity Witch be among them?

'The Calamity Witch... could she be here?'

Roran wondered, feeling a chill run down his spine. His grip tightened as he scanned the mirrors for any sign of her. The mere thought of her sent a wave of fear and anger through him. But then, as quickly as the thought came, he pushed it aside.

'No, that's impossible. The witch was an evil cultivator, feared and loathed by all. There's no way she would appear in a trial meant for future sect members. Besides, this is not the place for someone like her.'

Yet, despite his attempts to dismiss the idea, Roran couldn't shake the lingering unease. The Calamity Witch was a figure of terror in his memories—a dark presence that had brought ruin and despair to countless lives. Roran knew that if she ever resurfaced, she would be a threat to everything and everyone he held dear.

Roran resolved, his eyes hardening with determination.

'I must become strong, stronger than anyone. If she ever returns, I'll be ready. I'll protect everyone I care about from her... from any threat. I won't let the past repeat itself.'

His thoughts were a whirlwind of resolve and fear, but one thing was clear: Roran would do whatever it took to ensure that the horrors of the past would never touch his future.

As he watched the participants in the mirrors, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. His journey had only just begun, and he knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. But no matter what, he would forge ahead, becoming the protector his memories urged him to be.

The elders continued to watch, their discussions revealing the unspoken goal of the trial.

Unbeknownst to the participants, this was their chance to prove themselves, to display their skills and abilities in hopes of catching the eye of a sect elder. Those who excelled might be recruited as an inner disciple, where they would receive superior resources and training. And those who perform exceptionally, might be recruited as a personal disciple, trained directly under the guidance of a powerful elder. Either way, they managed to secure their place in a powerful sect.

But for those who failed to catch the eye of any elder, the future was less certain. They would be relegated to the ranks of the outer disciples, a place of limited opportunities and minimal resources. It was a path fraught with challenges, where only the most determined could hope to rise above their peers.

As the elders discussed the merits of each participant, the focus of Elder Maelis from the Frostfire Sect shifted to one particular scene that had caught his interest. His attention had been drawn by his personal disciple, Faylen, who seemed particularly absorbed in the actions of one participant.

Faylen murmured, surprise evident in his voice as he watched the mirror intently.

"That beggar boy... he's still in the trial,"

Elder Maelis, who stood beside him, caught wind of Faylen's murmured words. Curiosity piqued, he shifted his attention to the mirror that had captured his disciple's focus.

"Oh? This is the one you've been watching?"

Faylen nodded, still somewhat in surprise.

"Yes, master. I thought for sure he'd fail. Yet here he is, still in the trial and making his way through it."

Elder Maelis' interest piqued as he observed the participant more closely. The beggar—or rather, the boy Faylen believed to be a beggar—was indeed moving with a surprising level of caution and skill.

"He may not have the refined tools or techniques of others, but he makes do with what he has. That shows resourcefulness, something we value highly in the Frostfire Sect."

Elder Maelis mused, he observed the figure more closely.

The way he blended into his surroundings, using the beast-repelling powder to keep spiritual beasts at bay, collecting carcasses left over by other participants, and how he meticulously stored the collected herbs in makeshift bamboo bottles and wooden boxes, was impressive.

Faylen nodded slowly, still watching intently.

"But what kind of stuff is he gathering? Some of them don't seem to be particularly valuable."

He still hadn't studied Alchemy in depth, so of course he didn't know the uses of the materials collected by the beggar.

Elder Maelis shrugged.

"The specifics of the plants don't matter as much as his knowledge and application of them. He knows what he's doing, even if the materials are common. That shows a certain level of understanding."

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the trial grounds, the boy—who, unbeknownst to them, was Rinne—approached a waterfall.

The powerful rush of water concealed a hidden cave behind it, a secret haven where the boy could seek refuge from prying eyes. The mirrors, however, could not penetrate the veil of the cascading water, leaving them oblivious to the boy's next move.

Faylen muttered, disappointment evident in his tone.

"A shame, I wanted to see what he does next."

Hearing his disciple's disappointed murmurs, Elder Maelis advised.

"Patience, there are plenty of other participants to observe. But keep an eye on him. There's potential there, even if it's hidden beneath a rough exterior."

With the mirror no longer showing Rinne's actions, both of them gradually shifted their attention to other participants, each searching for that one spark of talent that could elevate their sect's future.

Chapter 012 – Refining Verdant Meridian Pill

Rinne POV:

Third day of the trial.

In the hidden cave, Rinne spent the entire day working meticulously, refining the supplementary materials needed for the Verdant Meridian Pill.

Although she had successfully refined a 1st-grade healing pill and a Spirit Gathering Pill, these were relatively simple processes for a novice. Those pills were easy and required little more than basic techniques and precision. The Verdant Meridian Pill, however, was a 5th grade pill, a high-level product that even seasoned alchemists found daunting. Its creation required immense precision and control over spiritual energy, something Rinne currently lacked.

Therefore, she needed to take some additional steps.

The process began with Rinne preparing 15 bottles of Green Neutralizer, a mixture made from common plants that held minimal medicinal power but possessed excellent balancing properties. She carefully selected a variety of plants with mild, neutral energies.

Rinne worked with precision, crushing and soaking the plants in water. Each batch required delicate control to ensure the plant essence merged with the water correctly, forming the green liquid. The liquid slowly turned a light, translucent green as it absorbed the plant properties.

After a few hours, she had 15 bottles of the green substance lined up before her, each glowing faintly. This was the base for her next task—creating the various supplemental solutions that would later be used in the Verdant Meridian Pill refinement process.

'Not bad, this should stabilize the more temperamental ingredients later on.'

It was a common misconception that the field of Alchemy only used plants as materials.

What the Alchemists refined was not plants, but the energy and medicinal properties within the materials, not exclusive to plants.

Rinne gathered everything—the spiritual beast carcasses left over from the battle, the blood of specific creatures, dragonfly wings, butterflies, and even worms. Each material contained unique properties she needed to extract and condense into solutions.

The various solutions she made does not have any name and they were not included in any book. This method was her own invention, designed to compensate for the spiritual energy control she couldn't yet perform. She named her solutions simply: Solution A, Solution B, and so forth, up to Solution H.

Traditional alchemists do not need those things as they could manage everything in a single cauldron with their spiritual energy. Meanwhile, Rinne's process was much more laborious, involving multiple stages and painstaking observation.

The Process of Creating Solutions A to H:

First, she started with Solution A. 

She poured in some of the green neutralizer and added finely ground butterfly wings. Butterfly wings, while fragile, held slight medicinal effects that could soothe volatile energies.

The neutralizer ensured their properties wouldn't dissipate during the refining process. She allowed the mixture to simmer slowly, stirring at calculated intervals. Once the color shifted to a delicate blue, she knew the solution was ready.

­Next was Solution B, which involved spiritual beast meat, a potent and volatile ingredient.

She threw small chunks of the meat into the cauldron with a mixture of the green neutralizer and herbs that could stabilize the overwhelming energy it held. 

As the heat activated the meat's essence, the surface of the liquid bubbled vigorously, threatening to explode. Rinne quickly adjusted the temperature, maintaining a fine balance, until the mixture darkened to a deep amber.

­Moving on to Solution C, Rinne worked with the blood of a specific creatures, one known for its regenerative properties.

She handled this process with care, knowing that blood was trickier to refine. 

Mixing it with the neutralizer and a hint of dragonfly wing dust, she observed the swirling red liquid. It thickened into a syrupy consistency after several hours, forming a deep crimson solution.

­Solution D was a blend of worms and moss. 

They were seemingly innocuous ingredients but ones that carried hidden medicinal strength when refined properly. She crushed the worms and mixed them with the green neutralizer and moss, heating them in the cauldron until the liquid turned murky.

It took considerable effort to keep the balance just right—if the moss overpowered the worms, the entire solution would be useless. But after precise adjustments, a soft green solution emerged.

­The creation of Solution E was simpler.

It was using only common plants with healing properties, mixed in with a few drops of Solution A to enhance its effects.

­Similarly, Solution F and Solution G each used a blend of insect-derived materials and plant essences. These required repeated heating and cooling cycles to draw out the right medicinal components.

­Finally, Rinne created Solution H, which was the most complex of all.

It required a small amount of spiritual beast blood mixed with rare herbs and a few drops from her previous solutions. 

The process took hours, with Rinne meticulously adjusting the temperature and observing every minute change in color and consistency. At last, the liquid turned into a vibrant gold, shimmering under the soft glow of the cauldron fire.

­After a full day of intense work, Rinne stood back and examined her progress. Before her, eight bamboo bottles sat neatly on the ground, each containing one of the Solutions A to H she had painstakingly refined.

"Not bad for someone without spiritual energy. But the real test begins tomorrow."

With the day's work done, Rinne allowed herself a brief moment of satisfaction. She had managed to refine the solutions necessary for the process ahead, overcoming challenges that even seasoned alchemists would hesitate to attempt without the right spiritual abilities.

And then, the fourth day.

After a night of rest, Rinne woke early, prepared to face the most daunting part of her endeavor: refining the Verdant Meridian Pill. She sat cross-legged before her stone cauldron, mentally preparing herself for what was to come.

'Even a real alchemist would sweat refining this pill. But I don't have the luxury of spiritual energy right now. I'll have to rely on these crude methods,'

She spread out her tools and materials on the ground.

In front of her were the substitution materials she had collected over the first two days—common ingredients that she was using in place of the rare, expensive herbs in the original recipe. The solutions she had created the previous day—Solutions A to H, stood ready, their contents glowing faintly in the dim light of the morning.

While an experienced alchemist could refine everything in a single cauldron, Rinne had to separate each step, breaking down the process into multiple stages to ensure nothing went wrong.

In addition, the recipe she was using required substitution materials, and this increased the complexity. Each ingredient needed to be separately refined into a solution to mimic the medicinal properties of the original materials, with the small use of Solution A to H facilitating this intricate process.

After hours of effort, she had successfully produced five key solutions, each representing one of the vital ingredients of the original recipe:

Thousand-Year Green Lotus Solution.

The first material she worked on was the solution for the Thousand-Year Green Lotus. Rinne placed all 15 stalks of finely ground Hundred-Year Spirit Grass into the cauldron, accompanied by Solution A, designed to stabilize the medicinal essence. She carefully adjusted the flame beneath the cauldron, raising the heat just enough for the grass to break down. 

As the liquid started to bubble, she added small drops of Solution B to enhance the healing properties, her eyes sharp on the changing hue of the mixture. Hours passed, but finally, the liquid turned a vibrant green, indicating a successful refinement. Rinne sighed with relief, scooping the liquid into a bamboo bottle.

­Jade-Leaf Vine Solution.

Next, Rinne worked on the solution for Jade-Leaf Vine, using a mixture of finely sliced Ironback Creeper and Solution C. She stirred the mixture carefully, watching as the liquid began to bubble vigorously. Rinne adjusted the flame, her hand hovering over the cauldron, ready to intervene.

When the liquid reached critical temperature, she added drops of Solution D to reduce the volatility. The liquid slowly settled, turning into a deep green hue. Rinne scooped the mixture into another bottle.

­Emerald Heart Ginseng Solution.

The solution for Emerald Heart Ginseng was next, 105 finely sliced Mountain Moot Ginseng mixed with Solution E.

Rinne sat back, watching the ginseng dissolve slowly. After what felt like hours, the liquid turned into a thick green solution, and Rinne scooped it into another bottle.

­Verdant Soul Sap Solution.

For the Verdant Soul Sap solution, she used 250 drops of Wood Essence Resin.

The liquid was thick and sticky, so Rinne added Solution G to help thin the liquid. She monitored the liquid closely, stirring it slowly as the heat gradually melted it down. Then she added Solution H, which helped stabilize the energy within the liquid. After several long hours, the originally thick liquid finally broke down into a smooth green liquid.

­Evergreen Pearl Mushroom Solution.

The final was for the Evergreen Pearl Mushroom solution, using 48 Mossy Cap Fungus, Solution A and Solution C. 

Within a few hours, the mushroom essence turned into a rich green solution. Rinne scooped it into another bottle and let out a sigh of relief.

­With the five key solutions ready, Rinne set about preparing for the actual refinement of the Verdant Meridian Pill.

The process was long and laborious. Unlike a true alchemist who could control the entire refinement through spiritual energy, Rinne had to rely on careful timing and manual adjustments.

"This is the part where most alchemists would start showing off. I don't have that luxury,"

One by one, she added the five solutions into the cauldron.

As they mixed, she carefully monitored the temperature, pressing the stirring symbol in the cauldron at precise intervals to prevent the mixture from separating. Once they completely mixed, she added small doses of Solution A to H, each designed to maintain balance and enhance the medicinal properties of the final pill.

The cauldron bubbled and frothed, the mixture thickening and turning a deep shade of green. Rinne's eyes never left the cauldron, her hands steady as she adjusted the temperature and added ingredients at just the right moments.

"Come on, just a little more…"

As time went by, her intense focus was unbroken, even as the outside world turned to night. With a day that was three times longer than the modern world, time felt prolonged and tiring.

Finally, the mixture was ready for the last stage: Pill Condensation.

Rinne gently tapped the symbols carved into the stone cauldron, her fingers moving deftly over the surface. The medicinal paste inside thickened and started to form into small, round shapes.

"Careful, careful…"

She murmured, her attention fully on the pills taking form.

As time passed, the paste solidified further, until the first pill emerged, glowing faintly green. One by one, the cauldron ejected more pills, each of them similar in size and shape. After what felt like an eternity, Rinne held her breath as she caught the final pill.

15 mid-grade Verdant Meridian Pills.

Rinne was a little disappointed as she saw the green pills in her hand.

"They're not even high-grade... For all that effort, the result is barely passable. Still, it's better than nothing."

These pills, though acceptable given the circumstances, were far below the standards she had grown accustomed to from her vast alchemy knowledge.

Worse yet, she could sense traces of harmful substances within the pills—an unavoidable result of using such an unusual array of ingredients, many of which weren't meant for consumption.

'I need to expel these impurities later with a Marrow Washing Pill.'

She thought as she carefully sealed the pills into the green bottle, which was used to store the Healing Pill from the second trial completion reward.

Exhausted, but somewhat satisfied, Rinne leaned back and let out a long sigh. The day had come to an end, and she had successfully refined the Verdant Meridian Pill using her own unconventional methods.

Chapter 013 – Unstable Spiritual Root

The night was still young, and the cave where Rinne had sought refuge was cloaked in silence, disturbed only by the distant calls of nocturnal creatures.

Not long after she had successfully refined the Verdant Meridian Pill, Rinne rested, her breathing slowly returning to normal after the intense alchemical process. Her body was exhausted, and her mind too, yet she felt a certain calm. The hardest part, the refinement, was over. Now came the more dangerous task.

As she sat cross-legged on the stone floor, she took a moment to mentally prepare herself. The brief hesitation she felt earlier—wondering whether the pills she made would truly work—had vanished. There was no room for doubt now. The moment the pill had been successfully refined, all hesitation was gone.

She whispered softly, glancing at the fifteen green pills neatly arranged before her.

"I must take this step! Before this trial ends, I will possess a spiritual root!"

With that resolve in mind, she shifted into a meditative posture, taking in slow, deep breaths to calm her racing heart. She picked up one of the Verdant Meridian Pills, examining it for a moment before swallowing it whole.

The effect was immediate.

As soon as the pill settled into her system, an overwhelming wave of energy surged through her body. It was a force unlike anything she had felt before in her current life. The energy roared through her veins, seeking out her meridians, but instead of empowering her, it brought with it searing, unbearable pain.

Rinne gasped, her body instinctively tensing as the pain spread, centering around her lower abdomen.

Her meridians, particularly those near her dantian in the pubic region, began to twist and burn as if being forcefully reshaped by the medicinal properties of the pill. Her vision blurred, her clothes already soaked with sweat. Moments later, thin rivulets of blood seeped from her skin, the crimson staining her ragged clothes.

The pain was indescribable, unlike anything she had endured before.

'Perhaps this is what childbirth feels like...'

She couldn't help but have the thought, though she had never experienced it herself. Each wave of agony was sharp, cutting through her body, threatening to break her. She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms, drawing blood. But she did not stop. She could not.

Compared to the backlash from the Gu worm that had nearly destroyed her in her past life, this was still bearable. She gritted her teeth and endured, repeating the mantra she had used for years:

'Pain is fleeting. Strength is eternal.'

The excruciating process lasted for an hour and a half, her body trembling as the pill's effect gradually began to subside. But she knew this was only the beginning. The transformation had started, but her spiritual root was still incomplete.

Without hesitation, Rinne reached for another pill and swallowed it. Her hands trembled as she crushed a piece of the large healing pill with a nearby rock, breaking it into smaller portions. Between the painful transformations, she chewed the healing pill pieces, using their properties to restore her battered body.

After taking the sixth pill, something inside her shifted.

It was subtle at first, a faint change in the air around her. But as she focused, the sensation became clearer. She could sense it—the flow of spiritual energy in the atmosphere. The invisible, elusive force that only cultivators could feel now coursed around her, filling the cave like a gentle breeze.

Her eyes widened as the familiar sensation enveloped her, the same feeling she had once experienced during her second life, after stepping into the world of cultivation. Her heart raced with a mixture of joy and disbelief.

'I did it... I can sense spiritual energy.'

Without wasting a moment, she turned her focus inward, using her newfound ability to examine her meridians. It was there—small, but unmistakable. A section of her meridians near her dantian had transformed. It had become her wood-attribute spiritual root, the key to cultivation. Though it was tiny, barely developed, it was enough to make her heart swell with triumph. She had succeeded.

But this was only the beginning.

'This root is still too small... it's far from enough.'

Rinne's joy was short-lived. She knew that a small, barely formed spiritual root wouldn't be enough for her to cultivate effectively. She needed more—more transformation, more strength. Without pausing to celebrate, she continued taking the pills one by one, each time enduring the agony of transformation, each time healing her body with the fragments of the healing pill.

The process was grueling, and as the hours stretched on, it became harder to keep track of time. The pain was relentless, a constant reminder of the price she was paying for her pursuit of power. But with each pill, more of her meridians transformed, slowly but surely expanding her spiritual root.

By the time she consumed the final, fifteenth pill, the night had long since passed. As the light of dawn began creeping through the entrance of the cave, Rinne opened her eyes, her body trembling with exhaustion.

"Finally, it's over!"

She could feel it—a larger, more complete spiritual root pulsing within her meridians. The transformation was complete.

♠♠♠

However, even though Rinne had successfully acquired a spiritual root, the process came at a great cost.

She leaned against the cold stone wall, her body wracked with tremors from the effort. Her newly formed spiritual root felt unstable, fragile even—like something that could break under the slightest strain. Worse, the pain caused by the transformation still throbbed deeply within her, as if every nerve in her body was alight.

"It feels like surgery without any anesthetic,"

Rinne muttered between labored breaths, her brow drenched in sweat. The ache was relentless, deep and gnawing, spreading from her dantian to every part of her body.

She had already consumed a few of the first-grade healing pills she had prepared, but their effects were negligible. They could heal superficial wounds and soothe minor injuries, but this pain ran much deeper than that. The transformation had scarred her internally, and there was nothing the healing pills could do to ease the discomfort. The feeling was so intense, it was as though someone had carved her open, leaving her with no reprieve.

'I'll have to live with this for a while.'

She clenched her fists and exhaled slowly.

This pain wasn't something that could be fixed in a day. She guessed it might take a month, two months, or maybe even longer. With time, the spiritual root would stabilize, and when it did, the pain would subside. But for now, she had to endure it, her body just needed time to adjust.

But the pain wasn't the only issue.

As Rinne focused inward, trying to sense the spiritual root with more clarity, she realized how flawed it was. The root felt sluggish and impure. Every time she tried to gather spiritual energy, the process felt unnatural, slow—like dragging water through a rusted pipe.

"The Verdant Meridian Pills weren't refined well enough. This root is... weak!"

Rinne sighed, although she had prepared for this result.

While the pill had succeeded in forming a spiritual root, its quality left much to be desired. The root was riddled with impurities, making it inefficient at absorbing spiritual energy. Cultivation with such a root would be painstakingly slow. She would be far behind others with naturally purer roots, and the gap would only widen if she didn't do something about it.

Fortunately, this could still be fixed—and she had a clue on how.

Spiritual roots could be nurtured and purified, though it wasn't an easy task.

Rinne closed her eyes and dove into the memories she had inherited from Roran. One particular set of memories came to the forefront: Roran's childhood, when his mother had prepared medicinal baths for him. She could see the scene clearly, as if it were her own experience. His mother, a skilled cultivator in her own right, had concocted these baths to strengthen and purify his spiritual root.

The details of the process were vivid in Rinne's mind. She watched through Roran's eyes as his mother prepared the herbs, each one carefully selected for its unique properties. The bath itself was a blend of rare medicines, designed to soak into the skin and nourish the root from within.

'Well, he's just a child anyway, it doesn't matter if I've seen it.'

Rinne wasn't bothered by the scenery of his body, given she had seen such things many times in her past life. She had seen far worse during her years of extracting memories. There had been playboys with far more... distasteful recollections.

But this bath, though potent, presented a new problem.

Many of the ingredients Roran's mother had used didn't exist in this realm. They were from somewhere else—likely the "middle world" that Rinne had heard mentioned in various memories from the powerful figures she had once hunted. Most likely, Roran's mother had cultivated those herbs herself, possibly using the planting space within her ancestral heritage necklace.

The "middle world" was an enigma. It was referenced in the memories of powerful individuals she had encountered in her past life, but details were sparse. From what she had gathered, it was a realm above this one, filled with higher-quality resources, techniques, and knowledge.

And if there was a middle world, there was likely an upper world and a lower world as well. It was becoming increasingly clear that this world she now lived in was the lower one—limited in resources, techniques, and knowledge.

From what she could piece together, Roran's mother had originated from the middle world.

For reasons unknown, she had entered this lower world and married into the Lareth clan. Her abilities, however, were far beyond what most in this realm could achieve. She had brought with her knowledge and resources that didn't belong here, including the medicinal bath she had used to nurture Roran's spiritual root.

'That's irrelevant to me.'

She didn't care much for the politics or mysteries of other realms. What mattered now was that the medicinal bath could work, even if she had to modify it using local materials.

While the original materials were out of her reach, Rinne wasn't without options.

Roran's memories provided her with the details of each ingredient and the effects they had. With her knowledge, she could find local materials that could serve as substitutions. It wouldn't be an exact match, but she believed she could substitute the ingredients and achieve something similar.

But before that, she had to solve a certain pressing issue.

♠♠♠

Rinne sat cross-legged, her body trembling slightly from the constant pain radiating from her newly formed spiritual root.

She took a deep breath, trying to focus on the tasks ahead, but the sharp ache was a relentless reminder of the consequences of her transformation. While enduring the pain, she methodically began to note the tasks that she needed to complete and plan for the immediate future.

"First things first, I need to refine the Marrow Cleansing Pill."

The first and most urgent task: refining the Marrow Cleansing Pill. The harmful substances left behind by the Verdant Meridian Pills had begun to spread through her meridians, tainting her blood. The toxins needed to be purged before they caused any long-term damage. She would have to prepare the pill and use it to expel the dangerous residues from her body. This was her top priority.

Once she managed that, the next step would be to prepare for the medicinal bath to nurture her spiritual root.

According to Roran's memories, the bath was essential in raising the purity of the spiritual root—a process his mother had started when he was just a toddler. He had taken the bath for eight years, and by now, his root purity had risen to an impressive 90%. Rinne knew she couldn't afford to aim so high.

"I'm already seven years old, and I've only got less than three years until I turn ten."

The bath was only effective for the first ten years of life, so her window of opportunity was limited. Her goal was modest compared to Roran's—a purity of 70%, the standard of many wealthy scions in this realm. If she could achieve that, she'd be content.

Gathering the herbs and materials for both the Marrow Cleansing Pill and the medicinal bath shouldn't pose too much of a problem. Once she joined a sect, such resources would be easier to obtain.

However, the thought of how costly the medicinal bath would be weighed on her. The bath needed to be taken regularly, and each session would require rare ingredients. The expense would drain her wealth rapidly.

"I'll need to work hard and earn enough spiritual stones,"

She thought, already bracing herself for the future. She knew that the path of cultivation was never easy, and her circumstances were far from ideal. She had come into this world with no family support, no powerful background, and now, a fragile and unstable spiritual root.

Another issue gnawed at her—the instability of her spiritual root.

It couldn't be used for cultivation until it stabilized, and that could take anywhere from a month to a year. If the worst-case scenario played out, and it took a full year to stabilize, it would create a massive problem for her. The annual assessment in any sect was a crucial event. Without a stabilized root, her cultivation would be minimal at best.

Rinne sighed deeply, her brow furrowing as she thought about the consequences. If she failed the assessment, she'd be relegated to a handyman position in the sect. That would make everything harder, especially completing her ultimate goals. The danger of not having a spiritual root was gone, but now she had to worry about advancing her cultivation.

"I can't afford to be a mere handyman! I'll need to compensate for my weak cultivation with body refining techniques."

She muttered to herself, frustration seeping into her voice. If her spiritual root remained unstable for too long, body refinement could be the key to passing the assessment.

Rinne couldn't help but sigh again, a sense of weariness washing over her. At the age of seven, she already felt the weight of the world pressing down on her.

"While other children are out playing, here I am, enduring all this pain and planning my next steps."

Her lament was quiet, but it echoed in her mind.

She spent the rest of the trial holed up in the cave, trying to get used to the constant pain.

It was as if her body was fighting itself, a battle she had no choice but to endure. During moments of reprieve, she made sure to wash her ragged clothes, scrubbing out the blood that had soaked through from her transformation. The last thing she needed was for others to notice something wrong with her when the trial ended.

'It would be best if no one realized what I've been through,'

For now, her best strategy was to keep a low profile, just as she always had. The more inconspicuous she appeared, the less attention she'd draw. That was the safest way to survive.

Finally, the one-week time limit passed. Rinne was sitting in the cave, her thoughts wandering when she felt a sudden warmth emanating from the wooden token she had been given at the start of the trial. She glanced down at it just in time to see it glow, the light pulsing for a brief moment before her surroundings blurred.

In the blink of an eye, she found herself sitting on the platform, along with other participants.

Chapter 014 – The Trial's End

The sudden sensation of being transported jolted Rinne.

Her body felt weightless for an instant, and when her vision cleared, she found herself standing on the platform alongside the other participants. The abrupt shift in environment marked the trial's completion.

Rinne subtly shifted her weight, testing how much movement her body could handle. Despite her efforts to adjust to the pain in the cave, the throbbing ache from her unstable spiritual root still lingered, sharp and unrelenting. For days, she had been forced to remain still, each slight movement an agonizing task. The pain was far worse than she'd anticipated.

A small sigh escaped her lips as she recalled her desperate solution in the cave.

The pain had grown unbearable, forcing her to use the Phantasmal Mirage Art, one of her most trusted techniques from her previous life. This art was intricate, involving multiple disciplines such as formations, music, and alchemy, allowing the user to exploit lights, sounds, and even fragrances to deceive the mind.

In the past, it had been one of her favorite techniques alongside Earthshadow and Featherstep technique, assisting her to sneak past sects and clan strongholds undetected. However, in her current condition, she lacked the strength to execute it at full capacity.

Still, she didn't need the technique in all its grandeur.

A simple application of self-hypnosis, using the art to block her brain's reception of pain signals, was more than sufficient for her purposes. With her current state, that was all she could manage.

'Reducing the pain by 90% should be enough, I can't dull myself completely.'

She knew that it would be unwise to eliminate her pain completely, as it served as an important signal from her body to warn itself that something was wrong, and also as a means of knowing how far along the process of stabilizing her spiritual roots was. Therefore, she reduced her pain by about 90%, leaving a manageable stinging sensation centered in her lower abdomen.

Standing on the platform now, Rinne maintained a composed appearance.

The pain had become bearable, like a dull throb in the background. It was annoying, but no longer hindered her movements. She observed her surroundings, her gaze swept over the other participants as they materialized onto the platform one by one.

Immediately, tensions were visible. Some of the participants glared at one another with barely concealed hostility, grudges from the trial simmering beneath the surface.

A boy with a deep gash on his arm sneered at another who was nursing a bruise on his face. Across from them, a group of three stood together, their eyes filled with disdain as they looked down on the scattered wounded. It was clear that conflict had broken out during the trial, and more than a few had resorted to robbing others of their spiritual cores to meet the requirements.

One participant—a tall, lanky youth with a smirk plastered on his face—casually playing with the spatial bag in his hand as if boasting his survival. Another, a boy with disheveled hair and a dirt-streaked face, stood hunched, clutching his side as if in pain but trying to keep a straight face.

Rinne could feel the resentment brewing in the air.

Some participants would likely carry grudges beyond this trial. But for now, they all had to suppress their grievances. After all, they had made it this far, and there was still the matter of being accepted into a sect.

Rinne glanced around more carefully. Many of the participants bore injuries, some more severe than others—but none looked to be on the verge of collapse. The wooden tokens had done their job, transporting them out of the trial before any permanent damage was inflicted. As for whether anyone had perished in the trial due to losing their token... well, Rinne didn't particularly care.

Such details weren't her concern.

The next step was the counting of spiritual cores, an event she already knew was merely a formality.

Thanks to the memories of Elder Soryn, Rinne was aware that the participants had been under constant observation via the Mirror Viewing Platform throughout the trial. The elders had witnessed every movement. The counting of cores wasn't what determined their fate. What truly mattered was whether they had caught the attention of an elder.

Those who had impressed an elder would be invited to join their sect as inner disciples or, in rare cases, as personal disciples if their talent was exceptional. For those who hadn't stood out, they would still be allowed to choose a sect, but they would begin as outer disciples with no special privileges.

As for herself, Rinne wasn't particularly concerned with becoming an inner disciple.

The title was prestigious, yes, but it wasn't her current priority. She had too many secrets, things she couldn't afford to reveal. The matter of her spiritual root had been solved for now, but there were other risks. Her knowledge of alchemy and formations, for one, was far too advanced for a child her age. If she stood out too much, people might start asking questions—dangerous questions.

'I can't draw too much attention. Not yet. They might think I'm some ancient soul possessing a child's body.'

If anyone suspected something unnatural, she could be accused of being an old soul who had seized a child's body through forbidden techniques. That would be just creating her endless trouble.

Fortunately, she knew that the Mirror Viewing Platform had not extended its surveillance into the cave where she had drawn formations and refined pills. Her most important actions had remained unseen.

As she mulled over these thoughts, a familiar voice interrupted her.

"Rin! It's good you're also fine."

Turning, Rinne saw Kael hurrying toward her, his expression bright with relief.

She replied, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"You too. Thanks for the talisman. It was very useful."

The fireball talisman he gave her was indeed useful, but she didn't tell him clearly what she used it for. He would never imagined that the talisman he gave was not used for combat, but instead to ignite a fire to refine pills.

Kael grinned, clearly pleased with himself.

"I'm glad it helped! I was worried for a bit, especially when I didn't see you in the later stages of the trial."

It seems like he took the time to look for Rinne.

Unfortunately, there was no way he would be able to find her, as she had locked herself in her hiding cave from the third day until the end.

"I stayed out of sight, it was safer that way."

Rinne said simply, her tone neutral. She wouldn't reveal the extent of her injuries or her struggles.

Kael nodded in understanding.

"Yeah, a lot of people were fighting over cores in the end. It got ugly."

"I can see that."

Rinne glanced at the participants still glaring at one another.

The crowd around them continued to shift, some participants banding together while others eyed potential enemies. Grudges, alliances, and unspoken rivalries simmered just below the surface.

A few minutes later, the result assessment process began.

The examiner elder teleported onto the platform, followed by representatives from various sects. It was the same elder who had announced the start of the third trial, but now he looked different. Dressed in the official robes of the Immortal Alliance, he projected an aura of authority and importance that was absent during his earlier casual appearance.

'Now he decides to act the part.'

Rinne glanced at the elder's formal attire, silently noting this.

She couldn't help but feel that it was a bit theatrical—putting on robes just for the show of it.

"The trial has concluded. It is now time to assess your results."

The elder announced, his voice was loud and clear, carrying across the platform as he motioned for the participants to line up. One by one, they stepped forward, presenting their spatial bags for examination.

As the participants formed a line, the examiner elder began the assessment. One by one, they stepped forward to present their spatial bags for evaluation. The platform buzzed with tension as everyone waited for their turn, each eager to know the results and hoping to catch the attention of the sect elders.

The examiner scanned the next spatial bag with his spiritual sense.

"Neryn Solas, 197 spiritual cores,"

A murmur ran through the crowd. Neryn, a lean boy with a confident look, stepped forward, holding his chin high. His performance had clearly caught the interest of several sect elders.

An elder from the Horizon Peak Sect said first, his robes marked with golden embroidery symbolizing the sect's status.

"An impressive number. Horizon Peak Sect extends an invitation for you to join as an inner disciple."

"The Shimmering Moon Sect would also welcome you among our inner disciples. You have potential."

A second elder, cloaked in the dark blue robes of the Shimmering Moon Sect, also followed in.

Neryn glanced between the two elders, his eyes betraying a mix of excitement and pride. After a brief pause, he respectfully bowed to the elders. He straightened, his voice firm as he committed to his decision.

"I am honored by both offers, but I choose to join the Shimmering Moon Sect."

The elder from the Shimmering Moon Sect gave a satisfied nod, while the elder from the Horizon Peak Sect shrugged indifferently. The other participants watched with a mix of envy and admiration as Neryn stepped aside.

The examiner continued the process, calling forth the next participant.

"Elara Myris, 215 spiritual cores."

Elara, a tall and composed girl with sharp eyes, stepped forward. A hint of satisfaction crossed her face at the mention of her count.

An elder from the Silent Gale Sect announced, his voice full of admiration.

"Such a remarkable result, the Silent Gale Sect invites you to join our ranks as an inner disciple."

"The Scarlet Sun Sect also extends an invitation. With us, you will find your path to greatness."

A second elder, this one with the unmistakable crimson sash of the Scarlet Sun Sect, added.

Elara stood silent for a moment, her eyes scanning the faces of the two elders. There was a flicker of calculation in her gaze. She then bowed gracefully.

"Thank you both for the invitations. I accept the offer from the Silent Gale Sect,"

"You have made a wise decision. We look forward to seeing you grow."

The elder from the Silent Gale Sect nodded in acknowledgment.

Finally, the examiner turned to the next participant in line, his eyes assessing.

"Deren Keral, 352 spiritual cores,"

He announced, prompting a stir of interest among the gathered elders. Deren stepped forward with a look of pride, puffing his chest slightly at the impressive total.

An elder from the Obsidian Gate Sect praised, his voice carrying a hint of satisfaction.

"Excellent, the Obsidian Gate Sect would be honored to have you as an inner disciple."

"The Horizon Peak Sect also extends an invitation. Your abilities are not to be overlooked."

Not to be outdone, a second elder from the Horizon Peak Sect chimed in.

Deren took a moment, glancing between the two elders, his excitement palpable. He bowed deeply before responding,

"Thank you for your generous offers. I choose to join the Obsidian Gate Sect."

"A fine choice. You will have the guidance you need to reach your full potential."

The elder from the Obsidian Gate Sect nodded approvingly.

Watching the scene unfold, Rinne could only sigh internally,

'Hypocrites. They call themselves righteous, yet they praise robbery as skill.'

She knew very well that obtaining such a large number of spiritual cores was nearly impossible through regular hunting. The so-called "righteous" sects often operated under a veneer of justice, yet they condoned underhanded tactics if it benefited their disciples.

'What's the difference between them and an evil cultivator? Perhaps just the cultivation method.'

Rinne couldn't help but ponder, the thought felt bitter in her mind.

Her eyes flicked toward the elders as she continued her silent observations. The hypocrisy extended to the Immortal Alliance's strict stance on cultivation methods. The Alliance banned any method they deemed "unorthodox" without truly considering its nature.

A method like Gu cultivation, which raised a Gu insect inside the user's body by feeding it the user's vitality, wasn't inherently evil. It was harmful, certainly, but the practice itself caused no direct harm to others. And yet, the Alliance labeled such methods as "forbidden techniques" and hunted down anyone who practiced them.

Yet, despite their hypocrisy, she was here to join their ranks. For now, the sects represented safety and an opportunity to gather resources. They were her best chance for protection in a world where strength ruled.

She thought with a touch of bitterness.

'Maybe I'm no different... Perhaps I'm even worse, considering all I did in my second life.'

This was the trend of the world. The strong oppressed the weak, and everyone scrambled to survive. She was just one person and could not go against the current, no matter how much she despised it.

Chapter 015 – The Last Glance

The assessment process continued.

Each participant's turn marked by the announcement of their names and the number of spiritual cores they had gathered. The atmosphere was tense; every whisper of a new total sent ripples of excitement, jealousy, or dread through the remaining participants.

Some children still standing in line shifted nervously, their eyes darting to the examiner and the elders who watched the process with hawk-like scrutiny.

Kael stood among them, his nerves growing as he observed the sequence unfold.

One child after another stepped forward, each submitting their spatial bags, and each seemingly filled with an abundance of spiritual cores. Kael's own total was pitiful in comparison. He had gathered only 16 cores, a number that took him every ounce of courage and strength to obtain through hunting spiritual beasts.

Yet here he was, surrounded by others who had easily amassed hundreds. His anxiety was written all over his face, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his robe.

"What if I fail? If I don't have enough cores, will I be sent back home?"

Rinne stood beside Kael, with a presence a stark contrast to the tension radiating from him.

She observed the unease etched across his features, yet her own expression remained serene and composed, as though the impending results held no weight for her. After casting a brief, appraising glance at Kael, she spoke in a calm and soothing tone that seemed almost detached from the gravity of the moment.

"You'll be just fine. You're not the worst one here."

Her eyes scanning the surroundings before she gestured subtly with a tilt of her head.

Kael followed her gaze, taking in the scene more fully for the first time. He noticed that while there were many children eagerly lining up to submit their results, there were also quite a few who remained where they stood. They kept their heads low, their expressions blank or filled with resignation.

Some of these participants bore visible signs of being victims—scratches, torn clothes, and bruises that hinted at altercations. They had no spatial bags in their possession; they had been robbed by the ones currently basking in glory.

Others, however, simply stood there as though disconnected from reality, looking more like shadows than people. They had neither the skills nor the courage to hunt spiritual beasts, spending the entire trial in hiding. There were many who had nothing to show, some because they had been preyed upon, and others because they had been too weak to even try.

In comparison, he had fought for every one of his 16 spiritual cores.

"How many spiritual cores did you end up with?"

The question slipped out, driven by an insatiable curiosity that he couldn't suppress.

But Rinne's next words left him stunned.

"Zero."

Rinne replied with an air of nonchalance, her gaze drifting to the platform where participants continued to step forward.

Kael blinked, momentarily stunned by her response. "Zero?" he repeated, his voice a blend of disbelief and concern. His eyes softened, his view of the situation shifting.

"Did... did you also get robbed?"

He suspected that she might be one of those unfortunate enough to fall prey to theft, given the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.

She shook her head slightly, her expression inscrutable.

"No, I just didn't bother to collect any."

Kael paused, taken aback by her words.

Surprise mingled with confusion as he processed her statement. He couldn't understand why could she maintain such calmness in this situation. The atmosphere was charged with anxiety, and yet Rinne appeared unfazed.

"Wait, why are you so calm about this? You're going to get eliminated!"

He paused for a moment before continuing, this time his tone lowered.

"How about this, I could share my cores with you. Half of them, even."

As he said that, his hand had already touched the spatial bag on his belt. It could be seen clearly that Kael was serious. He really planned to give half of the spiritual cores he collected to Rinne.

Rinne's gaze softened, but her tone remained steady as she shook her head.

"Actually, you don't need to worry. All the participants here have already passed as outer disciples. This trial only gives us the opportunity to become inner disciples. There is no elimination, even if we do poorly."

She replied flatly as her eyes briefly flicked to the participants still standing on the platform, each one grappling with their own fate, before returning to Kael's gaze.

"I plan to join as an outer disciple."

Her casual declaration caught Kael off guard.

For the first time, he felt his perception of this beggar child shifting. In his eyes, Rin wasn't a beggar at all, the calm demeanor and mysterious aura set Rin apart from others.

♠♠♠

As the young master of the Verin clan, Kael had never known what it meant to be short of money.

He was never stingy with others, especially children his age whom he wanted to befriend. His upbringing taught him the value of generosity, especially when it came to children his age, as his father always said:

— Friendship is easy to forge when you give others gifts.

Over the years, he amassed many friends, but he quickly realized most of them were drawn by what he could give them. Whenever he offered gifts or support, their eyes would light up, but it was the excitement of a prize, not genuine friendship.

But Rin... Rin was different.

Kael couldn't quite put his finger on it. Despite being a child in ragged clothing, Rin exuded a calmness and confidence that didn't match that small frame or shabby appearance. When Kael had given Rin five of his clan's prized Fireball Talismans, Rin had barely glanced at them before pocketing them with the same indifference as if accepting an apple.

That scene had left him bewildered. These were Fireball Talismans crafted by the Verin clan, renowned in Elaria Town and valued at 500 gold coins, or 50 low-grade spiritual stones per piece. Yet, Rin had acted as though they were no more special than pebbles on the road.

And then, the conversation just now.

The trial of the immortal alliance recruitment ceremony changes every year and the detailed information should only be known to a small number of people. How could Rin know about the information regarding the third trial this year, even though even fairly large clans like the Verin clan didn't know about it?

Kael couldn't help but speculate, his thoughts racing.

'Rin must be from an important clan, one more influential than mine.'

The idea seemed far-fetched, yet it was the only explanation why his clan's Fireball Talismans failed to make an impression.

Kael still couldn't fathom why Rin showed up to the Immortal Alliance recruitment ceremony dressed like a beggar. Maybe Rin was disguising himself to escape pursuit of someone?

There were many holes in his theory, but at ten years old, Kael still struggled to piece together complicated scenarios. Kael's imagination filled the gaps with intricate scenarios, each one more elaborate than the last.

Nevertheless, he liked to imagine grand possibilities.

'If Rin is choosing to start as an outer disciple, there must be a reason.'

He admired Rin's composure and thought that perhaps befriending Rin was a more valuable move than any he had made before. To show his sincerity, Kael even considered joining as an outer disciple, intending to follow Rin to whichever sect he chose.

'Maybe he's aiming for a deeper plan, something grander than I can ever imagine.'

Kael looked at Rin, who stood quietly amidst the crowd, showing no signs of concern about his poor result in the trial. Unlike the other children who desperately clung to their successes or trembled in fear of their failures, Rin seemed beyond such trivialities.

♠♠♠

Time passed, and all the participants who had stepped forward to submit their results had been assessed.

The atmosphere grew tense as the final results were tallied. Now, only those who hadn't moved remained standing in the background, silently contemplating their next steps. The examiner elder scanned the area one last time, his gaze stern and penetrating.

He called out, his voice carrying a hint of impatience.

"Is there anyone else?"

His words were not loud but could be heard by everyone present, but none of the remaining participants responded. They were still silent and did not move from their respective places.

Rinne glanced sideways at Kael, noticing his hesitation.

"Why aren't you stepping forward?"

She asked curiously.

"It doesn't matter how many cores you have, even if it's just one. The mere act of stepping up shows determination, and that holds value in the eyes of some elders."

Rinne already knew from Elder Soryn's memories that Kael had nothing to worry about, he would receive an invitation from the Verdant Blade Sect. All he needed to do was step forward and hand over the cores he had collected.

Kael slowly shook his head.

"I'm not concerned about being an inner disciple, I want to join as an outer disciple, just like you."

Rinne blinked, caught off guard for a moment. Her earlier comments seemed to have changed his determination.

She let out a soft sigh, lightly shaking her head.

"I don't understand why you would choose the harder path when an easier one is readily available."

Kael remained silent and offered no response to her words. Rinne chose not to pressure him. It was his decision, after all, and she felt it was important to respect it.

The examiner elder, noticing that no other participants stepped forward, nodded curtly to signal the conclusion of the assessment.

"In that case, the assessment is concluded, all of you may now choose the sect you wish to join."

After making that announcement, the elder intended to go back to his boat, but he postponed it when he saw someone raised his hand.

Amidst the group, a young boy stood nearby, his hand raised hesitantly.

"Elder, can I still join a sect? I was under the impression that if we failed, we'd be sent back home."

His words quivered, showcasing the depth of his anxiety and the weight of his concerns.

The elder raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on his lips as he scoffed lightly.

"Who said anything about failure? There is no such thing as failure here. Even if you didn't do well in this trial, you can still choose any sect to join as an outer disciple. However..."

He paused for dramatic effect, casting a glance at the group of eager, hopeful faces before him,

"Your treatment won't be as favorable as those who made it as inner disciples."

A wave of relief washed over the children, their hearts lightening at the elder's words. It didn't matter even if they could only start out as outer disciples. At most they just need to be able to work hard.

Not long after, the sound of wind and rustling fabric filled the air as several flying boats descended upon the scene. Each bore the emblem of a different sect, their colors and designs denoting their unique heritage. The air buzzed with the flurry of movement as senior brothers and sisters disembarked from the boats, moving swiftly to maintain order.

One of the senior cultivators, his voice booming across the platform.

"Those who wish to join the Azure Sky Sect, line up here!"

"Those for the Crimson Wind Sect, line up here!"

The area quickly turned chaotic as participants rushed toward the flying boats, eager to secure a place in the sects of their choice. Despite the invitations, or lack thereof—each sect had a limited capacity, and everyone knew that space was precious. The boats could only accommodate a set number of new disciples, and once they reached their limit of 500, they would depart.

Rinne watched the bustling scene, her eyes sharp and calculating. She was already moving, seeking out the specific boat she wanted. Kael hurried to keep up with her, his curiosity getting the better of him.

He couldn't help but asked, his voice tinged with excitement and apprehension.

"Which sect are you planning to join, Rin?"

"Frostfire Sect."

She replied succinctly, not bothering to elaborate.

Kael looked slightly confused but didn't question her further. Rinne had her reasons, that much he understood.

In truth, she had chosen the Frostfire Sect after careful consideration. If she wanted to solve her problems as efficiently as possible, joining a sect with the finest knowledge and resources in alchemy was the obvious choice.

While several sects, including the Azure Sky Sect and Verdant Blade Sect, matched this criterion, Rinne had weighed factors like the sect's location, architectural style, local customs, and available specialties. The Frostfire Sect seemed the most convenient and suitable for her plans.

Soon, she saw the Frostfire Sect's boat, with its symbol elegantly engraved on the side of the boat. Without hesitation, she stepped towards it. Kael followed closely behind her, determined to join her on the path she had chosen. The line for the Frostfire Sect was relatively short compared to the others, which suited Rinne perfectly.

Standing in line, Kael glanced at the emblem and then back at Rinne, feeling a surge of determination.

"Frostfire Sect, huh?"

He murmured to himself.

As they moved forward, awaiting their turn to board the boat, Kael's mind wandered back to the third trial. It had been a grueling process, but now, with the end in sight, a new journey was beginning.

'Rin always seems to know exactly what he's doing. If he's going there, then so am I.'

Following Rin into the Frostfire Sect seemed like the right step, a decision that might change the course of his life in ways he couldn't yet foresee.

However, what he didn't know was that this would be the last time he would see Rin. Once they joined the sect and separated, he would never find the boy named Rin again.

Chapter 016 – A Silent Observer

It took three days for the flying boat to reach the Frostfire Sect.

Throughout the journey, Rinne kept to herself, sitting quietly in the shadows. She had no desire to draw attention. Her ragged clothes set her apart from the wealthy children aboard, who wore fine silks and well-made garments. As usual, she was ignored by them, and that suited her just fine. She wasn't there to socialize.

Meanwhile, Kael, being from the prominent Verin Clan, quickly found himself mingling with the other clan children. He was soon surrounded by a small group, eager to make connections with him. They wore robes spun from fine silk, adorned with clan insignias and accessories that reflected their wealth.

He was a natural in these social circles, having grown up surrounded by privilege and power. One by one, they began introducing themselves, each child eager to make a good impression and establish their status within the group.

The boy with the silver-threaded robe was the first to step forward, a confident smile on his face.

"I'm Arven from the Tylan Clan. My family controls talisman production and trade in three major cities. If you ever need a high-quality talisman, we're the ones to go to."

A few others nodded in acknowledgment, clearly familiar with the Tylan name. Talisman crafting was a highly respected trade, and Arven's family was known for their skill.

Next was the elegant girl, who had already boasted about her single spiritual root. She raised her chin slightly as she spoke, her voice smooth and assured.

"Liraen, from the Solis Clan. We run the largest alchemy business in the northern provinces. Our pills are used by some of the highest-ranking cultivators, including sect elders."

She gave a satisfied smile, clearly pleased with her family's renown.

Following her was a boy with sharp eyes and a smirk.

"Jorun, from the Veylan Clan. We specialize in weapon refining. My clan's smiths can forge spirit swords that cut through even the toughest defenses. I already have a custom blade waiting for me once I'm accepted as a disciple."

They turned their attention to Kael, waiting for his introduction.

He didn't hesitate to step into the circle, his posture straightening as he spoke.

"Kael Verin, from the Verin Clan. We might not have as many shops as the Tylan or Solis clans, but our talismans are in high demand, especially with some of the more exclusive clients. We've made a name for ourselves through quality over quantity."

There was a murmur of approval as the other children recognized the Verin name. Though not as widespread as the other clans, the Verins were still known for their craftsmanship and connections.

Liraen said with a nod.

"Ah, the Verin Clan... I've heard your talismans are some of the best when it comes to long-lasting enchantments. Impressive."

Kael smiled, accepting the compliment. "We take pride in our work."

As the group continued to chat, it became clear that this was more than just casual conversation—it was a subtle competition, each child trying to one-up the others with tales of their family's influence, wealth, and power. Kael held his own in the conversation, recounting how his family's talismans had been sought after by traveling cultivators and smaller sects alike, solidifying their reputation as a go-to for high-quality, reliable talismans.

As the group engaged in their discussion, Rinne watched from the shadows, her expression calm and indifferent.

She didn't fit into the group of wealthy children, nor did she have a place among the commoner children who had formed their own circle on the other side of the boat. These commoners were hesitant to interact with the rich, but they were just as unwelcoming toward her.

But Rinne wasn't bothered about this, she was more interested in observing the people around her.

Calmly, she studied them, noting their names and faces. Several of them were familiar to her—not in this life, but from her previous life. Some of these wealthy children had been her victims when she was an evil cultivator, and this sect itself had once been her target. She recognized them well, though they had no idea who she truly was.

As her gaze swept over the group, she noted a few faces she didn't recognize. Either these children were not in the sect when she had attacked, or they had already perished before her arrival back then. Regardless, it didn't matter now. That life was behind her. Her current goal was simply to stay inconspicuous, hidden, and away from trouble.

With nothing more to learn from observing them, Rinne quietly left the boat's hall. She slipped away unnoticed, finding a secluded place where she could rest, away from the noise and chatter of the others.

"Ah, that's right! Rin...?"

Kael, completely engrossed in his new social circle, had initially planned to introduce Rinne to his new friends. However, by the time he remembered her and glanced around, she was already gone.

And then time passed.

As the boat neared its destination, a senior disciple named Faylen appeared before the group, his presence commanding their attention. He gathered the children in one spot, his eyes scanning the young faces before him.

"Welcome, all of you, to the Frostfire Sect,"

Faylen said, his tone both congratulatory and instructive.

"From now on, you are entering a new stage of your lives. You've passed the first hurdle and proven your worth. In recognition of that, I will now distribute your sect tokens and robes."

With a wave of his hand, he began distributing the sect's tokens and a set of robes to each child.

The robes were a deep, icy blue, with white patterns that mimicked the flow of frost and fire intertwining, representing the sect's dual nature. Once worn, the robes would only adjust to fit the wearer's body once activated with a touch of spiritual power. For those who had not yet reached the first level of the Spirit Gathering stage, the robes would remain stiff and oversized.

When it came to Rinne's turn, Faylen paused momentarily, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer than the others. He seemed to want to say something, but for a moment, he hesitated.

Rinne noticed his hesitation and spoke first.

"Senior Brother, is there something wrong?"

Faylen was caught off guard by her directness.

At first, Faylen had no intention of saying anything, but since Rinne had asked, he decided to speak.

"I remember you. You're the beggar child who asked me to use the Dust Cleaning Technique on you back in Elaria Town."

Rinne nodded, acknowledging it with no particular expression.

But secretly, Rinne's mind wandered. She didn't recognize this person's face and had to search for him from her stored memories during their brief conversation. She discovered that this person was Faylen, the personal disciple of Elder Maelis, one of the most respected elders in the sect.

Faylen seemed to contemplate his next words before he closed the conversation.

"That's about it. Good luck."

What he didn't mention was the disappointment he felt after observing Rinne's performance during the trials.

He had been watching her during the trial, and though Elder Maelis had spoken highly of her potential, her decision to hide during the third trial had left Faylen disillusioned.

As Rinne listened, her mind quietly assessed Faylen.

In her past life, she had never crossed paths with him because by the time she launched her attacks on the Frostfire Sect, Faylen had already perished, killed in battle against a 7th-grade demonic beast inside a secret realm.

She mentally noted the strength of spiritual and demonic beasts:

1st-Grade: Equivalent to Spirit Gathering stage.2nd-Grade: Equivalent to Foundation Establishment stage.3rd-Grade: Equivalent to Core Formation stage.4th-Grade: Equivalent to Nascent Soul stage.5th-Grade: Equivalent to Soul Transformation stage.6th-Grade: Equivalent to Void Refining stage.7th-Grade: Equivalent to Divine Ascension stage.8th-Grade: Equivalent to Half-Step Immortal stage.9th-Grade: Equivalent to True Immortal stage.10th-Grade: Beyond True Immortal...When she had died, she had only reached the Void Refining stage. Imagining the strength of a 7th-grade demonic beast was beyond her grasp, but she knew fighting one would have been a futile endeavor.

Still, knowing his fate stirred no feelings of pity or concern. His death had been a part of history long before her own demise, and he was, after all, just another stranger to her.

'He was a stranger... I don't interfere with fate,' 

Faylen's fate was sealed. She had no desire to interfere. Moreover, the demonic beast that had killed him had remained locked within the secret realm. There was no need to worry about it now.

After distributing the tokens and robes, Faylen addressed the group again.

"Once you have your tokens, they must be imprinted with your spiritual sense to officially mark you as members of the sect. For that, you must at least reach the first level of Spirit Gathering stage. For those of you from clans, this shouldn't be a problem."

He looked out at the group, his gaze lingering on the commoner children.

"For those of you who have not yet reached the Spirit Gathering stage, there will be a basic cultivation class tomorrow. You'll be provided with the first three levels of the Spirit Gathering manual and taught how to draw spiritual energy by an elder. For those of you who cannot read, there will be a basic literacy class as well."

The clan children barely paid attention to this part, many of them already familiar with the foundational steps. They exchanged knowing glances with one another while some commoners looked nervous at the prospect of starting so far behind.

Rinne paid little attention. She had no need for those classes.

Soon after, the boat finally arrived at the Frostfire Sect.