In the underground chamber of the abandoned warehouse, Liu Wei's temporary base was spacious, previously a storage point for high-end goods, evident from the various supercars from Chu Tian's past life, though now corroded and immobile.
"Chu Tian, the last time you disguised as Xuan Yuan, where did you go? Many people say you're dead," Liu Wei asked curiously.
Chu Tian had a good impression of Liu Wei, who appeared strong on the outside but was a good man at heart. He had planned to recruit Liu Wei into his team but missed the chance due to some minor issues, which he regretted. He intended to have Nota invite him into the team at the right time.
"I went to the Ghost Market, now preparing to advance to A-level," Chu Tian replied nonchalantly.
Liu Wei nodded enviously, "Wow, when I first met you, I was at C-level, and you were only E-level. It's been less than a year, and you're about to advance to A-level."
Chu Tian smiled, "Just good luck."
Indeed, without the system, Chu Tian might have been forced to join the army or struggle to survive in a mercenary team.
"You rest for a while. I'll prepare some food. We found some ancient wine here, let's have a drink," Liu Wei said, getting ready to cook.
Chu Tian didn't say much, found a clean spot, laid out his bedding, and sat down to cultivate. He prioritized upgrading his martial skills, not in a hurry with medical and forging knowledge. He planned to advance and then explore the Primordial Mountains for precious herbs suitable for alchemy.
Soon, Liu Wei prepared a simple meal of vegetables, beef stew with potatoes, and white rice. Given the world's current state, people would still struggle for daily meals without technological conveniences.
Taking a sip of the strong, sauce-flavored old wine Liu Wei handed him, Chu Tian appreciated its potency. Liu Wei, after a gulp, exhaled deeply and began eating.
"This wine is really spicy," Liu Wei laughed, clinking cups with Chu Tian.
As they were drinking and chatting, a loud explosion suddenly occurred. The door to the basement was blasted open, revealing three burly men.
Chu Tian saw their information at a glance: all three were A+ level talent warriors with offensive talents - lightning, fire, and water control.
With a cold smile, Chu Tian confronted the intruders, "Gentlemen, don't you know it's rude to barge in like this? Didn't your parents teach you manners?"
"Hmph, Chu Tian, today is your end," the leader with lightning talent replied, his fists radiating dark black light amidst spreading lightning.
Sensing the spiritual energy eruption from these A+ level warriors, Chu Tian knew they had activated their martial skills. He responded with a surge of spiritual energy, wielding his Emperor's Overlord Spear.
Noticing the spear, the intruders' eyes gleamed with greed. "Impressive, an S-level weapon with potential for further upgrades," said the one with fire talent, unsheathing a gray saber.
Without hesitation, his spiritual energy exploded, and he slashed at Chu Tian with a gray streak of energy.
Chu Tian pushed Liu Wei away and dodged, the saber hitting the wall behind him, destabilizing the basement.
"If you want to die, I'll fulfill your wish," Chu Tian said, activating a rapid movement technique, his spear thrusting at the saber-wielding man.
The three split up to avoid Chu Tian's attack, which hit a concrete pillar, further compromising the basement's stability. They quickly ran outside, just as the warehouse and basement collapsed behind them.
Chu Tian chuckled coldly, pushing Liu Wei to safety, then enveloped himself and the attackers in a dense fog using his talent.
Liu Wei, surprised by the sudden fog, recorded the scene with his communicator, unable to penetrate the mist.
Inside the fog, Chu Tian stood firm with his spear, activating a technique that unleashed over a hundred Thundering Swords.
The attackers, back-to-back, guarded against Chu Tian, unaware they had fallen into his trap.
"Be careful, he lied about his talents when joining the mercenaries. He has multiple talents, and it's rumored he learned ancient martial arts," warned the saber-wielder.
"If we kill him, we might find ancient martial arts secrets on him," another added.
But before they could continue, Chu Tian's voice echoed chillingly from all directions, "You're in my formation now; you might not have a chance to leave alive. Tell me how you found me, and I might consider leaving you intact."
The leader punched out, hitting the formation but failing to dispel the fog, which turned into thunderous clouds. Realizing their mistake, one yelled, "Let us out if you dare!"
They attacked the clouds with their martial skills, to no effect.
Chu Tian's voice