Weeks passed as Lei Chen trained under Elder Tao's guidance. He learned to focus his qi more efficiently, mastering techniques that allowed him to shield his mind from external influence. His body grew stronger, his movements more fluid, and his understanding of the War God's legacy deepened.
But the peace didn't last.
One night, as Lei Chen was returning from a secluded training session, he was ambushed by a group of inner disciples led by Lin Wei. They had been watching him, waiting for the right moment to strike.
"You think you can surpass me?" Lin Wei sneered, drawing his sword. "You've been hiding behind the elders, but tonight, we'll see who truly deserves to be a core disciple."
The battle was fierce. Lin Wei's followers attacked in unison, their blades flashing in the moonlight. Lei Chen fought back with everything he had, but the sheer number of opponents was overwhelming.
As he struggled to hold them off, a wave of energy surged through him, and his vision blurred. His body trembled, and he realized he was on the verge of another breakthrough.
In the heat of battle, Lei Chen tapped into the War God's power, pushing his body beyond its limits. With a roar, he unleashed a devastating strike, sending Lin Wei and his followers flying back.
In that moment, Lei Chen felt the barrier to the Essence Gathering Stage shatter. The energy within him surged, filling his dantian with a level of power he had never known before. His qi had condensed into pure essence, elevating him to a new level of cultivation.
Lin Wei, battered and bloodied, stared at him in shock. "How... how did you...?"
Lei Chen stood tall, his aura burning with intensity. "This isn't over, Lin Wei. You may hate me, but I will rise—whether you like it or not."