Lei Chen's journey through the wilderness had left him battered but not broken. His trials had strengthened his resolve, but even as he felt the power of the War God's legacy growing within him, he knew he needed more. He needed a place where he could grow without the constant threat of enemies lurking in the shadows.
After his narrow escape from the Lei Clan, rumors had begun to swirl—rumors that the Celestial Sword Sect, one of the most prestigious sects on the Tianxuan Continent, was seeking talented cultivators for a special recruitment.
Lei Chen had heard of the Celestial Sword Sect's reputation. Its members were known for their mastery of sword techniques that could slice through mountains, and their influence stretched across the continent. They valued strength above all else, accepting only the most promising cultivators into their ranks.
One evening, as Lei Chen sat by a campfire in the deep wilderness, contemplating his next steps, a figure appeared, cloaked in shadows but radiating power. It was an emissary from the Celestial Sword Sect—a sect elder by the name of Elder Yi. His piercing eyes assessed Lei Chen with an intensity that made the young cultivator feel like he was being weighed and measured.
"You've stirred up quite a bit of interest, young one," Elder Yi said, his voice like gravel. "I've been watching you for some time."
Lei Chen frowned. "Watching me?"
"The power you wield—it's not ordinary. I know potential when I see it," Elder Yi continued, his eyes narrowing. "The Celestial Sword Sect is offering you an opportunity. Join us, and we will help you grow. Refuse, and you will be left to fend for yourself in a world where power reigns supreme."
Lei Chen hesitated. He had heard stories of sects that manipulated their disciples, using them as pawns for their own gain. But he also knew that without guidance, his progress could be stunted.
"I'm not a swordsman," Lei Chen said, looking directly into Elder Yi's eyes. "Why would your sect be interested in me?"
Elder Yi's lips curled into a faint smile. "The Celestial Sword Sect doesn't just train swordsmen. We cultivate strength, in all its forms. And you, boy, are brimming with untapped potential."
After a moment of silence, Lei Chen nodded. This was the opportunity he had been waiting for.
At this point, Lei Chen's cultivation had grown considerably since the beginning of his journey. He was in the Mortal Foundation Stage, having reached the seventh sub-stage. This stage focused on stabilizing the qi within the dantian, fortifying his body to better control and refine the spiritual energy coursing through him.
The techniques of the War God's legacy were designed to harness raw power and shape it into an unstoppable force. It enhanced both physical and spiritual cultivation, giving Lei Chen increased strength, speed, and endurance. However, the cultivation technique wasn't without its challenges. Each breakthrough required a near-death experience, and the power it granted came at the cost of enduring intense physical trials.
As a cultivator in the Mortal Foundation Stage, Lei Chen's qi was refined but still far from the explosive capabilities of the Essence Gathering Stage. He had the ability to manipulate his surroundings, enhance his combat abilities, and augment his body with qi, but his foundation was still being built. Each sub-stage he conquered brought him closer to his goal, but every step required iron will and focus.