At the dense crove forest
After acquiring several techniques from the defeated cultivators, Chen Mo stood in the forest, inspecting his gains.
"Master," the system spoke up, "since you've obtained these techniques, would you like to combine them?"
"Combine?" Chen Mo furrowed his brow. "Explain."
"Master, I have the ability to merge techniques you've acquired. While you will lose your current techniques, the combined result will be far superior. Stronger, more efficient techniques will replace them."
Chen Mo crossed his arms, deep in thought. "All the techniques I got from those idiots are mortal-grade. If I can exchange them for higher-grade techniques, it's a worthwhile trade. Proceed."
"Understood, Master. Initiating combination… Swish! Techniques with compatible attributes are being fused."
A series of notifications rang out in Chen Mo's mind:
Ding! Congratulations, Master, you have gained the Earth-tier technique Wind Step: Increases speed by 35% (Passive).
Ding! Congratulations, Master, you have gained the Earth-tier technique Fire Fist: Increases attack power by 25% (Passive).
Ding! Congratulations, Master, you have gained the Earth-tier technique Golden Bell: Increases defense by 25% (Passive).
"Passive?" Chen Mo's eyes widened as a grin spread across his face. "Isn't that too broken? With these skills, I'll have a better chance against Chen Huo when the time comes."
"Yes, Master," the system chimed. "I'm glad you're pleased! If you need further assistance, just let me know."
Chen Mo nodded, his focus shifting back to his surroundings. "We're here at the python's lair. What's that? It looks like someone's already here. Let's take a closer look."
From behind a large boulder, Chen Mo observed a group of disciples surrounding a massive, injured python.
"Hehe," a man at the forefront sneered. "Once I Fenglie obtain this python's core, reaching the Martial Grandmaster realm won't be far off. It was a good idea to take advantage of its fight with the White Tiger King."
The python hissed, its golden eyes gleaming with fury. "Shameless human! You attack me when I'm already injured. If I were at my peak, you wouldn't dare to stand before me!"
Fenglie laughed cruelly. In the world of cultivation fairness doesn't exist,what are you waiting for? Kill it and bring me its core!"
"Yes, Senior Brother!" the disciples replied in unison, charging at the python with their weapons drawn.
An intense battle ensued, with blood splattering across the cave. Despite its injuries, the python fought fiercely, its tail lashing out and crushing several disciples in one strike.
The python roared, "Humans! You want my core? Dream on! I'll take you all to the afterlife with me!"
Fenglie's face turned pale as he shouted, "Retreat! It's about to self-destruct!"
"Too late!" the python bellowed. "Die, you wretches!"
With a deafening explosion, the entire cave collapsed in a cloud of dust and debris.
Chen Mo, who had been watching from a safe distance, let out a breath of relief. "Phew… good thing that guy and his lackeys were here before us. Otherwise, we would've been the ones caught in that blast. Even with its injuries, the python's strength was terrifying. It's a pity I couldn't obtain its cultivation, but based on that that called himself Fenglie his clothing, he was definitely from a sect. No matter. Since there's nothing to gain here, it's time to head back."
"Wait, Master," the system interrupted. "I sense there's still a treasure buried under the rubble. Move the debris and let's search."
Chen Mo's interest piqued. "A treasure, you say? how can i waste such an opportunity. Let's take a look."