Chapter 99: 56-62
Chapter 56. Hello, Foundation Building Stage
As I feel Ren Qingquan is getting too absorbed in talking with Fatty, I reminded him about the main goal of his visit.
[Host, remember your main goal for this visit. Please go near someone trying to break through. System is currently unable to do detailed scanning due to the distance.]
'I almost forgot.' Ren Qingquan talked to fatty about his goal this time. "Brother Zhang, I mainly came here to rent the room used to break through."
With a shocked face, Fatty Zhang replied. "What? Brother Ren, are you already at the completion of the Qi Refining Stage?!"
"Indeed. I already achieved it several days ago." Seeing fatty's even more surprised face, he continued "I am here to try how effective the room is at helping someone to breakthrough, so I can better prepare myself."
When I saw Ren Qingquan's arrogant face, I truly wished to slap him. Doesn't he know how to keep his secret? Why is he blabbering about his abnormal cultivation speed?
Fatty Zhang quickly congratulated Ren Qingquan when he heard it. Then, he started talking about the cultivation room used to break through. "Brother Ren, the cultivation room used for breakthrough is a bit different from normal cultivation room. Not only does it have a spirit gathering formation used to gather natural spirit qi, the wall on that room is created using special materials that help to block spirit qi inside the room from dispersing."
After introducing the room, he talked about the price, "Renting them will require 10 sect contributions or 10 low grade spirit stones per hour. Do you have any money to pay for it? Otherwise, let me lend you some spirit stones?"
As if realizing something, Fatty Zhang continued while holding a stone from his inner pocket. "Because I have just started my job and haven't received any salary, I can only lend you 20 spirit stones I got from my master though."
When I saw the stone in Fatty Zhang's hand, I found out they are exactly the same as the stones obtained from Lackey A's corpse.
Ren Qingquan also realized it as I saw him rummaging through his uniform's inner pocket, while asking me to pull those spirit stones from [Storage]. 'System, help me take 10 spirit stones I picked up from Lackey A.'
Releasing 10 pieces of low grade spirit stones to Ren Qingquan's hand. He pulled his hand from his inner pocket while grabbing all 10 stones and showed them to Fatty Zhang.
Ren Qingquan shows the spirit stones in his hand toward Fatty Zhang while saying. "There is no need. I already have it."
I saw Fatty Zhang clapping his hand upon seeing the spirit stones at Ren Qingquan's hand. "As expected of brother Ren, he has already gathered so many spirit stones!"
Hearing Fatty praising Ren Qingquan again and again, I rolled my eyes. It looks like a fatty is someone who rarely uses his brain.
While taking a circular jade green token with the number 1 written in it, Fatty Zhang said. "Brother Ren, here is the key to your breakthrough room. The jade green color means you can use it on any empty room on the fifth floor. The one hour timer will only start when you place the key into the room's core formation. Don't forget to pull the jade token and return it here. I apologize, I can't follow you because I still have work to do."
Ren Qingquan waved his hand as he said. "No worries. I will go on my own."
When he finally entered the pagoda, I immediately did a more detailed scan on everything. Just the data I gained from the first floor alone is incredibly amazing.
Whether it is the spirit gathering formation Fatty Zhang mentioned before, the defensive formation used, the data about energy circulation from those people cultivating, and many other things.
From seeing those people cultivating, I finally concluded something about spirit roots and natural ambient spirit qi. That is, cultivators can only absorb ambient spirit qi from the same element as their spirit root.
A fire root cultivator can only absorb fire elements spirit qi. While five element spirit roots cultivators like Ren Qingquan can absorb five types of spirit qi.
Of course, there are exceptions from the rule above. For example, every cultivator I met is capable of absorbing the spirit within spirit stones and from unknown pills. Which made me decide to call the spirit qi inside them a neutral element spirit qi.
Although I already guessed all this when the peoples attached with Lv 1 Subsystems are cultivating. But, due to the [Scan]'s low level, the details are a bit blurry so I am still a bit doubtful. Now that I think about it, I seriously need to think about upgrading my other skills instead.
By the way, absorbing spirit qi isn't the same as refining them. So, having more spirit root is still worse than having less. Because, refining took much more time compared to merely absorbing them.
While I am busy with my thoughts, Ren Qingquan has already arrived at the fifth floor. Focusing my attention on him, I sent him a message.
[Host, please walk nearby the room used by others to break through. The nearer the better, because the system can do a more thorough 'Scan'.]
Following my suggestion, Ren Qingquan moved suspiciously from one door to another. The way he moved is incredibly suspicious. If someone from our previous world saw him moving like that, he might get beaten up and suspected to be a robber.
I also activated my [Scan] and stored any data about breaking through. After two hours passed, I finally gathered enough information to conclude how cultivators advanced their cultivation from Qi Refining to Foundation Building.
It is actually quite easy. One just needs to gather the refined spirit they have toward the dantian once again and condense it around the wall of their dantian. To condense it, they need to use absorbed spirit qi to give it the necessary push by pressing the refined spirit qi. Just like a hydraulic press machine. But instead of water it used absorbed spirit qi.
That is where the breakthrough room comes into play. Because after the absorbed spirit qi pressed the refined spirit qi into the wall, it would scatter and return to the world. Those cultivators need to reabsorb them before using it to press the refined spirit once more.
Breakthrough room can keep the spirit qi from leaving the room and dispersing into the world. Which makes it easier to absorb. Of course they still need sufficient mental power to absorb those spirits once again.
The main difficulties for Ren Qingquan lies in the amount of refined spirit he has.
He must continuously condense all five strands of spirit qi in a single sitting until they turn into a solid wall. If he stops midway, his hard work will come to waste and the refined spirit will return to its initial state. Also, if he is too slow at smashing those refined spirit qi, it might cause his dantian to crack or even explode due to pressure.
But, that isn't too important, as I existed to help him. Ren Qingquan can just break the bottleneck to the next stage by smashing a lot of money- I mean, points.
He just needs to spend points to continuously purchase absorbed spirit qi or use [Transfer] so I can send the recently dispersed spirit back into his dantian. I don't believe even after I carry him, he will still fail in breaking through.
With the basic idea in mind and doing several simulations using [Calculate], I am already prepared to help Ren Qingquan breakthrough to the next cultivation stage.
[Host system has found a way to help you achieve your breakthrough. System recommends the host to enter an empty breakthrough room.]
'Ehh? I need to enter a breakthrough room? I thought you could make me breakthrough with a click.' I am extremely speechless when I hear what he says.
[System is not a miracle worker and so still needs to follow the world's rules. Anyway, host, just enter a room and you should've broken through within a hour. ]
Following my suggestion, Ren Qingquan entered an empty cultivation room used for breakthroughs. Placing the jade token Fatty gave him into a depression at the center of the room, it fit in perfectly. How it fit into the depression with a *click* Sound is the wet dream of people with OCD.
I sensed the defensive formation in this room activated and blocked the exit using an opaque energy barrier. Next, the spirit gathering formation turned on and the spirit within Ren Qingquan's room increased greatly.
Compared to the normal spirit density inside the Pure Wave Sect, which is already two times higher than the island Ren Qingquan visited before. The room with spirit gathering formation activated once again increased the density of spirit qi by 5 times compared to the spirit qi density in Pure Wave Sect.
Asking Ren Qingquan to sit in the middle of the room, just slightly behind the depression where that jade token is placed. I activated [Calculate] and first helped him to understand the step required to breakthrough. Then, I notified him about the activation of the automatic spirit qi refill function.
[Ding! Activating automatic spirit qi refill function. Host, please start gathering the spirit qi inside your body toward your dantian]
With my notification as the mark, I activated [Scan] to check Ren Qingquan's energy circulation. Currently, he already started gathering spirit qi into his dantian. Seeing his inefficient way of gathering those spirit qi, I frowned and chose to lend my [Calculate].
[Ding! Activating [Calculate] to help the host choose the most efficient way to break through.]
Because he is currently focused on breaking through, he can't see the new message I sent. But, it seems he still feels it as Ren Qingquan slowly changed how he gathered spirit qi and followed the most effective meridian paths.
Fifteen minutes later, Ren Qingquan's refined spirit qi has all gathered into the dantian. From [Anchor], I can feel his uncomfortable feeling as if something in his stomach is about to explode. Which is absolutely true, because I just sensed the guy next door got his dantian's wall cracked due to a failed breakthrough.
Due to the pressure from gathering too much spirit, Ren Qingquan's dantian wall is starting to crack. He then instinctively followed the step I taught him before and smashed the refined spirit qi using his absorbed spirit qi. When those refined spirits got smashed into the dantian's wall, the wall got strengthened and the crack healed.
This is where I must enter into action. Using [Storage], I immediately collected the spirit qi that is just dispersed from Ren Qingquan's body then transferred them into his dantian so he can continue smashing it toward the refined spirit qi.
Feeling the newly added spirit qi, Ren Qingquan continued to smash it to press the refined spirit qi into the wall of his dantian.
Just like that, half an hour passed and Ren Qingquan opened his eyes. Wiping my nonexistent sweat, I feel like a doctor that just helped a mother to give birth.
Ren Qingquan's breakthrough is a success and he is now a foundation building cultivator! While he is sensing the refined spirit qi that circulated from the wall of his dantian into his body, and feeling the increase in his strength. He accidentally released an extremely faint amount of mental power that barely interfered with my [Scan].
Ignoring those, I congratulated him.
[Congratulations for reaching the Foundation Building Stage! Hidden quest: Reach Foundation Building has been completed. You have been rewarded with 1000 points.]
Seeing my message, Ren Qingquan smiled and looked at his panel.
[Name: Ren Qingquan
Realm: Foundation Building 0/20
Absorbed Spirit Qi: 1/4 (Auto Refill OFF)
Point: 68.000
Profession: Formation master (Extremely Weak.)
Cultivation Method: Immortal Body Tempering (Immortal Ascension)
Magical Technique: Armaments Transformation (Perfection), Agile Step (Perfection), Body Hardening (Perfection), Super Duper ... Turtle Shell Technique (First Section), Turtle Divination Art (First Section)
System function: Devour, Shop, Scan, Library, Map (1000 meters radius), Calculate, System Storage (100 cubic meters), Sub system, Quest, Transfer (100 meter/points).]
The reward I sent him previously is just enough to offset the amount of energy used to activate [Transfer] to help him refill his spirit during his attempt at breaking through. Which makes the amount of points Ren Qingquan has to not change.
When he saw the amount of refined spirit required to reach the completion of the formation building stage, I heard Ren Qingquan thought. 'System, I want to buy 20 strands of refined spirit qi.'
When I heard him trying to purchase so many spirits at once, I asked him to rethink it.
[Ding! Are you sure you wish to spend 40.000 points to purchase 20 strands of refined spirit qi? System recommends the host to keep some points for emergency. ]
'Yes' Ren Qingquan answered before pausing for a moment. Thinking for a moment, he seemed to understand my concern and continued. 'Actually, I have thought about things thoroughly. My future main income will be coming from killing creatures and absorbing souls. The stronger I am, the safer and faster I can gather points.'
Hearing his reasoning, I nodded as it is quite logical. Guess my point hoarding illness relapsed just now, and I can't think rationally. So, I followed his plan and created 20 strands of refined spirit qi before sending them to Ren Qingquan.
[Ding! Successfully purchased 20 strands of spirit qi for 40.000 points.]
With this, his status panel is updated once again.
[Name: Ren Qingquan
Realm: Foundation Building 20/20 (Completion)
Absorbed Spirit Qi: 1/4 (Auto Refill OFF)
Point: 28.000
Profession: Formation master (Extremely Weak.)
Cultivation Method: Immortal Body Tempering (Immortal Ascension)
Magical Technique: Armaments Transformation (Perfection), Agile Step (Perfection), Body Hardening (Perfection), Super Duper ... Turtle Shell Technique (First Section), Turtle Divination Art (First Section)
System function: Devour, Shop, Scan, Library, Map (1000 meters radius), Calculate, System Storage (100 cubic meters), Sub system, Quest, Transfer (100 meter/points).]
One hour after placing the jade token into that depression, the spirit absorption array and defensive array turned off. Ren Qingquan then left the room and descended toward the pagoda's entrance
Chapter 57. Goodbye, Foundation Building Stage
Midway through his descent to the first floor of the pagoda, I stopped him.
[Host, while you are here, why don't you enter the tenth floor and check how foundation building stage cultivators breakthrough? After all, you are already at the completion of Foundation Building Stage and can advance anytime.]
Although this pagoda is tall, all of it is still within my 1,000 meter radius range. I am just unable to do a thorough [Scan] to the people inside as they need to be 10 meters within Ren Qingquan.
So, I know the tenth floor is used for Foundation Building cultivators to advance into Golden Core. Furthermore, just like how Ren Qingquan easily passes through from the first to the fifth floor. The stair toward the tenth floor is not blocked by any formation.
Seeing my message, Ren Qingquan paused for a moment to read it before walking toward the tenth floor. Arriving at the tenth floor, its interior is exactly the same as the floor below it.
Just like before, He walked nearby those doors with active formations. While I am busy activating my [Scan] to check how those people achieve a breakthrough.
After circling the place once, I already collected enough data to help him advance. Comparing the data I gained with the theory inside Immortal Turtle Tempering Technique sent by Ren Qingquan's mother that is written using some esoteric words, and several simulations. I am ready to practice it in reality.
[Ding! Host, system is ready to help you breakthrough to the next stage. Please look for a safe location to start the breakthrough procedure.]
Previously, I am still unsure whether or not the breakthrough room has any other hidden effect that may help Ren Qingquan to break through. Furthermore, he already paid for the cultivation room used for breakthrough, which is why I asked him to enter it. But now, I can help him to achieve a breakthrough anywhere, anytime.
I am just that amazing.
Ren Qingquan, who just finished reading my message, once again walked downward to the first floor of the pagoda.
Once he left the pagoda, Fatty Zhang immediately greeted Ren Qingquan. "Brother Ren, how is it? How confident are you at breaking through?"
Ren Qingquan replied with a smug smile. "Actually, I accidently breakthrough while testing the room's effectiveness."
What the heck, Ren Qingquan! Don't he know how to hide such a suspicious thing! I need to warn him about this.
While I am writing a message to Ren Qingquan, fatty replied with applause. "As expected of brother Ren, even in the cultivation world, you are still a genius!"
Damn, this fatty is actually also brain dead!
Listening to the conversation between those two, I feel my IQ decreasing. Luckily, I have finished writing my message.
[Host, you should stop spewing things without thinking. Luckily your fat friend is as stupid as you. System recommends the host to look for a safe place and breakthrough your cultivation.]
With my reminder, he quickly bid farewell to Fatty and activated Agile Step before running toward his residence. Reaching his residence, Ren Qingquan activated the formation guarding it and
Sitting in a meditative pose above his bed, Ren Qingquan said. 'System, let's start the breakthrough.'
I followed his word and started the exact same procedure as before. The only difference from foundation building is that he needs to press the refined spirit qi inward and create a core instead of pushing it outward toward the dantian's wall.
Just like before, the process of pressing refined spirit qi inside will also cause the absorbed spirit qi to disperse into the world after usage.
As I already have experience at helping Ren Qingquan giving birt- I mean, breakthrough. The whole thing happened easily and naturally. Except for the cost of using [Transfer] that got multiplied by four times into 4,000 points, There is nothing wrong.
For this breakthrough, in addition to the previous 4,000 points, there are also 3,000 points from creating 3 strands of absorbed spirit qi. Which makes the amount of points spent reach 7,000 points.
After the breakthrough, Ren Qingquan once again felt the increase in his strength.
While he only sensed the increase in strength, I find out that his mental power's strength has increased once again. Mainly because after the breakthrough, his mental power accidentally got released. Comparing the interference caused now and when he broke through to Foundation Building, I found out it is actually at least twice as strong.
Just like before, I congratulated him for his success.
[Congratulations for reaching the Golden Core Stage! Hidden quest: 'Reach Golden Core' has been completed. You have been rewarded with 1000 points.]
When he tried to check the remaining points in his panel, Ren Qingquan was incredibly shocked.
[Name: Ren Qingquan
Realm: Golden Core 0/150
Absorbed Spirit Qi: 4/15 (Auto Refill OFF)
Point: 25,000
Profession: Formation master (Extremely Weak.)
Cultivation Method: Immortal Body Tempering (Immortal Ascension)
Magical Technique: Armaments Transformation (Perfection), Agile Step (Perfection), Body Hardening (Perfection), Super Duper ... Turtle Shell Technique (First Section), Turtle Divination Art (First Section)
System function: Devour, Shop, Scan, Library, Map (1000 meters radius), Calculate, System Storage (100 cubic meters), Sub system, Quest, Transfer (100 meter/points).]
Rubbing his eyes in disbelief, Ren Qingquan screamed internally. 'Huh? Which moron decided the amount of spirit qi required to reach the Golden Core stage?! It actually multiplied 7.5 times!'
Yeah, his shock is understandable. After all, I am also incredibly stupefied when I first realized the amount of spirit qi he needed to advance. If calculated into points, Ren Qingquan will need 300,000 points to breakthrough! This number is utterly insane!
Five minutes of cursing later, he slowly calmed down and started thinking of a way to quickly increase his strength. But, after several minutes of thinking, I saw him give up.
Seeing him laying like a dead fish, I decided to remind him about the sect mission he took.
[Host, instead of laying around like this. How about you go to the Miscellaneous Hall's Mission Distribution Office and complete your mission?]
'Sigh. Alright, the cultivation world is so boring. I miss the internet and my old world.' While grumbling, he rose from the bed and prepared himself to run toward the Miscellaneous Hall's Mission Distribution Office.
Before that, he pulled his old cloth stored inside [Storage] and placed the dorsal fin required to complete the mission inside.
When he arrived at the Miscellaneous Hall's Mission Distribution Office. Ren Qingquan entered the door while hugging the dorsal fin covered by his cloth.
As Ren Qingquan went to a counter to show the completion of his mission, a nearby door opened. From inside, an old man walked out. That guy is elder Gu, Young Master Gu Cheng's family member. Similar to Young Master Gu Cheng, this elder also has an arrogant look on his face. He walked with his head raised 45 degrees while his hands were folded behind his back.
Walking slowly while looking around with the hole of his nostril, his eyes stopped at Ren Qingquan's location before suddenly widened. His eyes opened extremely wide, I am a bit afraid it might fall off suddenly. It is the kind of look someone has when they see a ghost in daylight.
Pointing his trembling finger at Ren Qingquan, he stuttered. "Y-you! G-Golden Core!"
Oh shiet! I forgot to search for a way to hide Ren Qingquan's cultivation! When I realized it, things were already too late.
Then, I saw Elder Gu's face change multiple times. There is even something like killing intent mixed occasionally as if he remembered something, elder Gu hurriedly leaving the building. From [Scan], I detected him flying quickly in a specific direction.
Previously, Ren Qingquan had already met with elder Gu. From how he screamed Ren Qingquan's exact cultivation stage, it can be concluded that elders have the ability to check other's cultivation stage. If we add that elder's shocked face, the truth has been revealed!
Elder Gu realized Ren Qingquan's super fast increase in strength!
Although I don't know why he left instead of confronting Ren Qingquan immediately upon realizing his abnormal increase in strength. But, if the Xianxia novel taught me something, Whatever is happening right now is extremely bad! So, I immediately warned Ren Qingquan who was still stunned after being pointed at by Elder Gu.
[Host, quickly finish your job and run to a safe place!]
'Wait a minute, System. I am already at the front of the line.' After hearing my warning, he actually still has the guts to wait in line and complete his mission!
(╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
***
At the Pure Wave Sect's Inheritance peak. Which is where the sect leader and grand elders stay.
Elder Gu quickly entered the sect's main hall. Inside, a total of eight people with varying gender and ages are talking while playing mahjong above an octagonal shaped table in the middle of the hall.
Once he entered Elder Gu quickly bowed and greeted them. "Junior Gu Xian greets seniors."
Although they look like some idle elderly, every single one of them are Divine Transformation Stage cultivators. They are capable of creating clones while their main body is cultivating. So, the people discussing and playing around a table are clones.
Upon hearing his greeting, a pale thin man with dark eyes replied. "What is wrong, elder Gu. I thought you are busy handling the Miscellaneous Hall's matter right now? Please go back to your work and don't increase my workload."
Elder Gu is already used to seeing his boss's antics, so he immediately goes to the point. "Hall Master, junior saw a new disciple that reached Golden Core Stage within less than a month!"
Elder Gu's words made the whole hall immediately turn into silence before everyone went into an uproar.
"Is it happening again?! Why must heaven punish our sect as such!" one of the women with a gorgeous dress filled with runic engraving screamed in panic.
Hearing her scream, one of them chimed in. "Indeed. Our sect can't take another beating from a children of luck!"
Listening to their dramatic words, a middle aged man wearing intricate cloth and a golden lotus crown at his head frowned. "Enough, let me use the Heavenly Sight Mirror to check on him and make sure whether he is one of those child of luck."
Hearing his words, the surrounding people praised. "Sect master is right!"
Immediately, that middle aged man pulled the table cloth from the octagonal table they used to gossip and play mahjong.
Once he pulls the cover, a glistening mirror surface is revealed beneath it. They actually used their sect's weapon as a table to play mahjong!
Pointing at Elder Gu, the Sect Master called him. "You, come here!"
"Place your hand in the mirror and think about that person's appearance." After seeing elder Gu place his hand, Sect Master also placed his hand into the mirror. Then, he released some of his spirit into it .
With the addition of Sect Master's spirit qi, the mirror's surface slowly turns blurry before showing Ren Qingquan's surroundings.
"Now then, let's see how much luck this boy has." Sect Master proceeded to tinker with the mirror a little bit and then the scene changed.
The initially normal scenes are now filled with golden light. The light was incredibly bright and warm as it shone into the face of everyone present. But, seeing that bright warm light, everyone in the room felt their heart turn cold.
"What massive luck!" The beautiful woman with a runic dress subconsciously murmured while looking at it. Then he continued, "No wonder that brat Fengyun doe didn't warn us. This much luck probably disturbed his magical technique's result."
Hearing that, Sect Master finally woke up from his daze and roared. "Quick! call every elders that are not in secluded meditation! We have an emergency!"
After roaring, Sect Master and the others higher ups quickly pulled several talismans and activated them.
Seeing those people busy activating their communication talisman, Elder Gu can only have a cold sweat while standing in a corner.
It seems things are quite serious.
Chapter 58. Trauma Victim's Gathering
After Elder Gu left the Miscellaneous Hall's Mission Distribution Office in panic. I focused my attention into the [Scan] attached to him. Although I can't see who he is talking to because of the interference from the mental power they released, it is still possible to overhear the conversation.
This makes me a bit confused.
Instead of being greedy, I hear the people around Elder Gu panicked instead. From their conversation, it seems they are incredibly afraid of people with massive luck.
When I saw them using their Heavenly Sight Mirror, I was incredibly shocked. Cultivators actually have something like satellite imagery!
Not long after, due to some unknown reason, my [Scan] can't detect the Heavenly Sight Mirror anymore and only received a blur, just like when I tried to [Scan] an elder level cultivator.
After thinking about it, I decided to show this scene to Ren Qingquan who is busy running away upon hearing my previous warning.
[Host, System thinks you don't need to run away anymore. Try to look at the subsystem attached to elder Gu, instead.]
'Okay.' Ren Qingquan stopped at a huge tree before he sat below it. Closing his eyes, he activated the observation mode. Meanwhile, I sent the data gathered through Elder Gu's [Scan] and processed them into comprehensible information before sending them to Ren Qingquan.
Seeing the blurry scene from [Scan], Ren Qingquan felt annoyed and asked me. 'System, can you upgrade [Scan] so they can show those people?'
When Ren Qingquan said the word I have been waiting for, I immediately calculated the cost required to allow [Scan] to detect them.
[Ding! If the host wants to see those people, you will need to spend 10.000 points and upgrade the stability of 'Scan'. Do you wish to purchase the upgrade?]
'Yes, yes. Quickly upgrade it. Also, increase Elder Gu's subsystem to Lv 3 by adding [Devour] and [Create].'
And so, I immediately took 10.110 points from him. Throwing 10.000 points to upgrade [Scan]'s stability, I send the other 110 points to upgrade Elder Gu's subsystem.
[Ding! You have spent 10.110 points.]
With this upgrade, my panel finally has a slight change.
[Name: System
Skills:
[Storage]
Inanimate and frozen time: 1000 cubic meters.
Space with x2 speed: 1 cubic meter.
[Transfer]
1 Point/100 meters.
[Calculate]
Upgraded using: 20.000 points.
[Devour]
Radius: 6 Meters
Morphable Shape
[Scan]
Max Range: 10.000 Meters
Stability: 10.000 (Capable of Scanning Divine Transformation Cultivator.)
[Create]
[Anchor]
Lv 7 : Ren Qingquan
Lv 5 : 1 (Azure Emperor)
Lv 3 : 1 (Elder Gu)
Lv 2 : ±10
Lv 1 : ±1.000
Energy: 130.000
Daily income: 80 Energy]
Then, Elder Gu's initially 10 meter radius [Scan] turned into 100 meters which finally allowed me to see eight other people surrounding a mirror.
With a little processing, I sent the scene to Ren Qinguan before focusing on Elder Gu's [Scan] once again. It seems, they are already done sending emergency messages to the elders at Pure Wave Sect.
There, I saw a beautiful cultivator wearing a tunic dress and spoke with a melodious voice. "Our Pure Wave Sect really can't handle another child of luck. This time, we might be destroyed entirely instead of decreasing in rank."
Another old voice spoke "Indeed. Even now, I still have chills remembering how my master fell in love head over heels for one of the children of luck before deciding to leave the world with that guy's other harem member to the immortal world."
Then a middle aged man with a deep baritone voice chimed in. "That event is still alright, I still have PTSD from the event after it. Now, everytime my disciple offended someone, I immediately went there and annihilated their whole family. Especially if the guy my disciple offends is a genius turned cripple."
Next, I hear the Sect Master say. "Hmm, now that senior Nine Sequence Talisman has mentioned it. Just in case, remember to hide your beautiful female disciple. We don't want them to get kidnapped by a random brat."
As for how I know he is the sect master, it is because his face is painted at the last few pages of the sect guide book Ren Qingquan got. With the word 'Sect Master' written in bold.
While those four are busy bantering around, talking useless things, a fat man wearing many precious looking accessories spok-. Wait a minute, is it just me or is the cultivation world overflowing with fatties? If we include this fatty, there is also Fatty Zhang and his fat master. Don't they have any technique to make their body slim or something?
Anyway, that fat man said. "Enough all of you! First we must decide what we are going to do with this kid. Should we kick him for the sect, talk with him, kill him, or whatever."
I felt cold when I heard what that fatty said. Damn, even if his face looked kind, this guy is extremely ruthless.
Everyone present immediately turned silent upon hearing that fat man's word. Seeing no one speaking, the Sect master finally decided.
"Let's talk with the boy first, we shall check his character. If he is a good kid and doesn't show any dangerous character, we will place him at some unimportant place to further observe him. If he is evil, then let's immediately get rid of him." Near the end, I saw Sect Master talk while doing slashing motion near his neck with his palm.
The other seven people nodded and said one by one. "I concur."
Seeing most of them agreed, Sect Master nodded while pointing at a handsome square faced man with sword like eyebrows. "Then, junior brother Tumultuous Wave will guide that boy here."
When his name was called, I saw that man nodded before pulling the sword at his waist and flying on top of it. If seen with the naked eyes of a low level cultivator, they can only see him suddenly disappearing due to his speed.
Within two minutes, the [Scan] in Ren Qingquan detected that man approaching.
While Ren Qingquan is brought by Spirit Beast Peak Master toward the Sect's Main Hall. I focused some of my attention on Elder Gu.
At this time, more and more people had already gathered inside the hall. From how the energy they released is around the level of Elder Gu, it can be concluded they are also elders. Every single one of them has a solemn expression on their face.
The man with a serious eyebags problem spoke to Elder Gu and broke the silence. "By the way, little Gu. Have you offended that boy before?"
Hearing the question directed to him, Elder Gu had a thoughtful look before answering. "Previously the junior had tasked my son to observe him. But he probably hasn't started because my son is currently busy preparing for a breakthrough."
The man with a deep eyeball nodded. "Well, it's good then if he hasn't started. Once you leave, you should cancel that mission first. After all the possible trump cards a child of luck with golden core stage cultivation can have will be incredibly scary."
The elderly man called Nine Sequence Talisman chimed in."That's right, I still remember the guy that charmed my master has the protection of a Void Unity woman. Meanwhile that genius turned trash has several quasi immortal treasures and the protection of the transcender's soul."
As those people continued to speak, I saw Elder Gu's face turn pale and his body trembled.
"Alright all of you, stop scaring him." I saw Sect Master waving his hand toward the surrounding people before he talked about Ren Qingqyan. "When I looked at the boy from Heavenly Observation Mirror, he looked like someone that won't bore a grudge just because you sent someone to observe him. Umm.. Maybe?"
Hearing Sect Master's unconfident tone, I am a bit speechless. Are you trying to calm him down or further agitate him?
During their talk, several people wearing elder clothes had gathered inside the hall. Then, I heard the Sect Master say, "I gathered all of you here mainly as a guarantee. If I give you a code, I want everyone to cast your strongest magical technique to the one I am talking to."
What the heck?! Ain't that overreacting a bit too much?
The surrounding elders are also confused. But they still agreed nevertheless.
At this point, Ren Qingquan finally arrived at the sect's main hall. From [Scan], I detected there are currently more than fifty elder level fluctuation and weight fluctuation one level slightly above them coming from those eight that have been staying at the main hall since the beginning. Among them, elder Fengyun and all ten elder Ren Qingquan met at his disciple recruitment test are here.
Which means there are more than 50 Soul Formation and above cultivators here. After my comparison, I found out only cultivators at Soul Formation stage can be an elder at Pure Wave Sect.
When Ren Qingquan entered, he opened the system map and saw a bunch of massive dots jumbled together. After granting all of them a Lv 1 Subsystem containing [Scan], I hear him randomly thinking. 'If someone nuked this hall right now, I think most of the top combat power in the Pure Wave Sect will be gone.'
(¬_¬)
[Host, please get serious. You are basically surrounded by strategic missile level experts that may explode anytime. From now on, if they try to make a move, System will automatically initiate an emergency escape procedure.]
After hearing my warning, Ren Qingquan finally stopped thinking randomly and looked at the surrounding people.
The fifty something elders all have a solemn face. Meanwhile, the eight people standing nearby, including the Sect Master wore the kindest smile they can use on their face.
Seeing Ren Qingquan just staring blankly, I rolled my eyes.
[Emergency quest: Survive!
Detail: please act as cute as possible. Otherwise those people with a kind smile might suddenly try to kill you off!
Reward: Up to 10.000 points depending on the result of this meeting.
Punishment: 1 hour electric attack.
Note: Yes, one hour! So, host. Please understand your current situation.]
When Ren Qingquan read it, he realized the danger he was in at last. Especially when he read the punishment, I can hear his heart thumping.
Cupping his hand while bowing toward those elders and other higher-ups of Pure Wave Sect, he greeted them. "Disciple Ren Qingquan greets seniors."
I saw the Sect Master's smile widened with this. I guess Ren Qingquan passed the first test?
Thanks to [Scan] that has been strengthened I can overhear the conversation those eight have using their super strong mental power.
The fat man's mental power fluctuated as he spoke. "Well, at least he is willing to greet us and is not too unruly."
It is followed by The beautiful woman with runic dress's mental power fluctuation as she replied. "Indeed. Coupled with his slightly silly face at the beginning, I think he is not the kind of person that will try some weird scheme and conspiracy."
I can't believe it, Ren Qingquan's dazed look actually got him a brownie point from this woman!
"Alright, stop dilly dallying, that boy is waiting for our response." Sect Master finally concluded their talk. Then, he cut off their group chat like a mental power connection.
Although the whole conversation sounded long, it actually only lasted less than a second. Never mind, I just wanna say that cliche xianxia line. Actually, the whole conversation lasted almost ten seconds. Similar to the speed of a normal person talking.
Ren Qingquan that had been left to dry while bowing finally received a response from the Sect Master as he loudly laughed. "Haha! What a polite young man! Raise your head. Do you know why we called you to the sect's main hall?"
'Of course it's because of that old tattletale! 'I heard Ren Qingquan's thoughts as he looked at Elder Gu. Luckily, his brain works correctly after seeing that 1 hour electricity punishment, as the word that comes out of his mouth is a normal answer. "Disciple thinks it is related to my cultivation."
"Indeed." Sect Master nodded his head, "Your quick increase in cultivation has pulled our attention. Even with a five spirit roots talent, you successfully reached the Golden Core stage within less than a month. A feat unattainable even by genius with pure spirit root without any fortuitous encounter."
When I heard him talking at this point, I already prepared myself to teleport Ren Qingquan far away.
Sect Master then continued, "The ability to do such a heaven defying feat means you are someone with extremely good luck and has met an amazing fortuitous encounter."
As if realizing what he is saying, I see Sect Master rapidly shake his head. "Wait, don't misunderstand. We aren't interested in your encounter. What I mean is, I want your heaven defying tale to spread throughout the sect and increase the passion of the younger generation. After all, knowing even someone with five spirit roots also has hope of reaching the Golden Core stage will push the junior disciple's will and passion to cultivate."
Hearing all that, Ren Qingquan had a confused look on his face. This time, I am even a bit confused. What is the Sect Master trying to say?
With a delayed speech that tries to give a suspenseful feeling, Sect Master said. "So... As the Sect Master of the Pure Wave Sect, I grant you the position of the Sect's Senior Brother! I hope you will be the role model of every disciple in our sect."
System: ???
Ren Qingquan: ???
Chapter 59. Ungaboonga, Caveman!
Eh? I am extremely confused here. Why did Ren Qingquan suddenly gain an important sounding position?
Looking at Ren Qingquan's face, it seems he is also incredibly shocked. As a good system, I quickly regained my composure and warned him.
[Host, don't forget to bow toward the Sect Master]
No matter what, bowing in gratitude is definitely the right move to use now. Cupping his fist, I see Ren Qingquan bow, toward the Sect Master. "Disciple Ren Qingquan thanks Sect Master."
"Good, good. Then, let me give the inauguration speech real quick." Sect Master nodded and said to the surrounding elders after having a thoughtful look as if pulling something from his long forgotten memory, "In this day blessed by heaven, our Pure Wave Sect has finally gathered together for the raise of yet another Senior Brother for our sect's juniors. With this position, I hope in the future.... "
When the Sect Master is giving his speech. I saw the other seven people behind him quickly reconnected their mental power.
"Ahh, the position of Senior Brother. It's been so long since I heard about that position." This word comes from the panda eyed man.
"As expected of the Sect Master, he has incredible quick thinking ability. The position of the sect's senior brother is just right. It sounds extremely important but actually only exists as an internal mascot. Even if that boy caused some problem, it shouldn't result in much chaos." This one is said by the woman with a runic dress as she nods her head several times.
What the heck? So that position is only an internal mascot?
While hearing their talk, Sect Master finally finished reciting the text from memory. "...So, I hope everyone present here will respect my decision and spread it to every disciple in the sect."
The surrounding elders bowed in salute as they all said at the same time, ""We will follow the Sect Master's will.""
After hearing the surrounding elders agree to him, the Sect Master said."Now, Ren Qingquan. You may return and prepare your luggage. Someone will pay you a visit later to guide you around your new residence."
"Disciple Ren Qingquan will take his leave."
With Ren Qingquan's bow, the sect master smiled. "mmhm."
Unlike how he entered the sect's main hall, Ren Qingquan needed to walk by himself to return. As the walk is quite boring, I just leave some of my attention to him to make sure he won't randomly die like a hamster. Meanwhile, I sent most of my attention to the meeting happening at the main hall through Elder Gu's [Scan].
When Ren Qingquan left, the Sect Master quickly looked at the surrounding elders. "Please remember that boy. He is a child of luck with a massive amount of luck. Make sure you don't offend him. Otherwise, I am afraid even our sect won't survive the calamity."
Then, Sect Master glared at some elder, "I know you bunch liked to abuse some of your power and I have maintained my eyes half closed for the sake of our sect's unity. But, this thing is a whole different matter altogether. If any of you dare to mess around, don't blame me if I use a heavy hand. No matter what, I am the Sect Master. Making sure the inheritance and prosperity of our sect continues is my duty!"
Including Elder Gu, I saw every elders nod with an extra solemn expression. Sect Master seems satisfied as he turns to look at the seven people standing nearby him."Then, let's get to the main topic. Which of you wishes to keep that kid as your junior?"
Hearing this question, the woman with a runic dress quickly spoke. "I suggest the Divination Peak. After all, Fengyun is the specialist at this whole Child of Luck thing. Anyway, as long as you don't choose my Weapon Refining peak, I will still call you senior brother. Otherwise, I will throw a massive tantrum right here, right now!"
The fat man followed. "I agree with my junior sister, Divination Peak is definitely the best place to keep him. Anyway, as long as it's not my Resource Department, it is okay!"
Then, the other five higher-ups followed suit. Hearing their words, I saw the Sect Master roll his eyes. "Alright, we will send that kid to Divination Peak."
Sect Master then turned his head and looked at the surrounding elders while focusing his eyes on elder Fengyun for a bit longer. "Well, all of you hear them, if you have any complaints, say it to them. Alright then, except for Fengyun, all of you may leave!"
As if remembering something, the Sect Master suddenly said to those elders. "Remember to hide your female disciple! Just force them to cultivate in seclusion, visit another sect, or whatever. Anyway don't let them roam around the sect!"
Once those elders, including Elder Gu left, I switched my attention to the [Scan] Ren Qingquan attached to Sect Master.
At this time, he is talking to Elder Fengyun. "I leave the matter with Ren Qingquan at your hand. You can do anything you deem fit, if you need any help, you can tell us anytime.'
After saying this, Sect Master pulled a palm sized thin stone with metal luster. On that stone, complicated engraving is written. Giving it to Elder Fengyun, he said. "This is the talisman left by one of our Void Unity stage grand elders. You can use it to deal a full power attack at Void Unity stage in case of emergency. I will also increase the budget for your Divination Peak for the next one hundred years in exchange for this mission."
"I thank Sect Master for your generosity. I definitely won't let down the Sect Master." Elder Fengyun left the main hall soon after receiving that talisman.
With the main hall returning to its original state with only eight people remaining, Sect Master covered the Heavenly Observation Mirror with a tablecloth. Once it was covered, he and the other seven higher-ups continued to sit around it and play mahjong in two groups.
With this, I guess Ren Qingquan's case finally concluded for now? Returning my attention to Ren Qingquan, I saw him still running toward his residence. Even with Agile Step active, the whole walk still took him almost half an hour.
He seriously needs to upgrade his magical techniques. Writing something to a new screen, I added it as a mission for him to do.
[A mission has been added.
Mission: Learn Magical Technique!
Detail: 0/10 Magical Technique learned.
Deadline: None.
Reward: One free chance to generate new magical techniques.
Punishment: None. ]
When Ren Qingquan saw there was no deadline for this mission, he decided to reach his residence first. Once he arrived, I saw him looking around and found out there is actually nothing he needs to collect because everything he has is already stored in [Storage].
Waiting for the person that will bring him to his new residence, I heard Ren Qingquan thinking. 'Let's rest for now. '
Pulling the library screen, he searched for a novel to read before laying on his bed. The wait lasted for a whole hour before he felt a knock coming from his residence's defensive formation.
"Wait a minute." closing the library panel, he released the defensive formation guarding his residence and opened the door. Through [Scan], I saw Elder Fengyun himself standing behind Ren Qingquan's door.
Still with his calm smile, Elder Fengyun greeted him. "We met again, junior brother Ren Qingquan."
Ren Qingquan quickly saluted. "Disciple Ren Qingquan greets Elder Fengyun."
Hearing his greeting, Elder Fengyun waved his hand. "There is no need to be so formal, you can just call me senior brother, from now on you will be staying at Divination Peak. I am here to guide you there and help you get used to the place."
Elder Fengyun then pulled a sword and controlled it using his mental power before asking Ren Qingquan a question. "Do you know any magical technique to fly?"
I saw Ren Qingquan shake his head upon hearing Elder Fengyun's question. Elder Fengyun too also saw his bitter look and smiled while pointing to his sword, "Hop on. I will bring you to the Divination Peak."
With this, Ren Qingquan jumped into the flying sword and both of them flew quickly at low altitude before rising into the sky. From Ren Qingquan's perspective, I saw the surrounding scenery rapidly flashing. Within less than ten minutes, both of them had already arrived at a pretty short peak.
Descending into that peak, Elder Fengyun gently controlled his sword to land several centimeters above the ground before jumping down. "Alright, we already arrived!"
Ren Qingquan followed suit and jumped down. Both of them started walking around the peak with Elder Fengyun in the lead while explaining things about the Peak. From Elder Fengyun's explanation, the Divination Peak can be concluded with one word.
Desolate.
Inside the whole peak there are only less than ten people. Even then, most of them are doing sect missions outside or recruiting disciples with talent and luck. So, at the current Divination peak, there is only Ren Qingquan and Elder Fengyun staying inside.
When he talked about this fact, Elder Fengyun said with a slightly sad voice. "The Divination Peak was only established several hundred years ago as a first warning for the sect against my kind of calamity. Which causes our foundation to be extremely lacking compared to other peaks and halls with thousands of years of history. Coupled with the special talent required to learn divination technique, it further limits the amount of discipline our peak can accept which results in the current situation."
After walking around for an hour, they finally reached their final destination, which is a cave surrounded by beautiful natural sceneries. Pointing at the cave, Elder Fengyun said. "Alright, this is our last destination. As you are given the position of Sect's Senior Brother which is equal in level to a Deacon, you have been awarded a Cave Abode equipped with a spirit gathering formation. The spiritual power inside is several time stronger than the outside world which will make you gain twice the result with half the effort while cultivating."
He then pulled a token and gave it to Ren Qingquan. "Here is the token for your Cave Abode, you can use your mental power to activate the Cave's formation. I have also prepared several sets of new clothes that show your status as the senior brother of our sect. It is placed inside your new Cave Abode."
"Thank you, Senior Brother Fengyun." cupping his hand, Ren Qingquan thanked him.
"Don't sweat it." Waving his hand, Elder Fengyun then said. "I will take my leave."
Pulling his flying sword once again, he stepped on it. With a whoosh, he soon disappeared from the range of my [Scan]. With Elder Fengyun gone, Ren Qingquan entered his newly gained Cave Abode and looked around curiously.
I have already scanned the interior of that cave abode so I am not too interested. Except for the spirit gathering formation and defensive formation that is stronger than the one in his previous residence, and several sets of clothes Elder Fengyun mentioned before. There is only simple furniture like a bed, meditation cushion, small table, a cabinet, and other normal things needed in daily life.
Upon entering, I saw Ren Qingquan locked his sight to the bed. Walking toward it, I saw him slowly lay on the bed with a blissful face. From the sense he shared through [Anchor], I feel his super comfortable feeling. The mattress is incredibly soft yet firm. It directly hugged his back and aligned his back while decreasing the tension he felt from his joints due to the activity he did this whole day.
Wait, this is not a mattress commercial! Why am I even describing it in such detail? Anyway, Once Ren Qingquan lay on that bed, he got trapped by its comfort and was unwilling to move for a whole hour!
Him wasting time like this slightly annoys me. Especially with the comfortable face he makes on that ugly mug of his, I really wanna slap him. And that is exactly what I do. Of course as a reasonable system, I won't directly slap him. Instead, I sent him a mission with an extremely tight deadline.
[Emergency mission: Gather Points.
Details: Now you are in a safe(?) situation. Please gather more points in case of emergency!
Goal: gather 200.000 points.
Reward: 20.000 points.
Deadline: 30 days.
Punishment: 10 minute electric attack.]
Chapter 60. Laziness Lead To Innovation
When Ren Qingquan saw the mission I just sent, his face turned bitter as he started complaining. 'System, don't you think this mission is impossible? To collect that many points I need to kill thousands of creatures within a month!'
That's right, this mission is barely possible! I have already calculated it. Ren Qingquan needs to spend 1 hour to gather 300 points from killing fishes. If I multiply it with 12 hours of working, he will gain 3.600 points/day. Multiply it by 60, the amount of points gained is only 108.000. With how his realm has increased, I choose to double the amount of required points. After rounding it down, I decided on 200.000 points for the mission goal.
Never mind. Actually, I only want to beat him with some lightning. Of course I won't say it bluntly.
[That is why the System hopes the host can look for a creative way to gain points just like before.]
Saying a half hearted support, I watch as Ren Qingquan descends into panic before slowly returning to calm. It seems he also has calculated the time required to gather that many points and found out it is still possible to gather it.
'Lets start doing it tomorrow.' With the words that often come out from someone with acute procrastination illness, Ren Qingquan continued to lay on the bed. Pulling the system library, he read the novels stored inside.
After reading for half an hour, I saw him close the system library screen as he grumbled. "So boring..."
Suddenly, he talked to me. 'System, open the observation function. I am curious what the others are doing right now. Let's start with Fatty Zhang.'
Following his words, I sent some of my attention to Fatty Zhang. Currently he is still manning the counter for Resource Department's Cultivation Room Registry. Processing the scene and sending it to Ren Qingquan, he quickly lost interest. It is understandable as what Fatty Zhang is doing right now is just sitting at the counter while meditating when there are no guests.
'System, switch the view to Third Uncle's subsystem.'
Changing the scene to his Third Uncle, Ren Qingquan stopped upon seeing he is still meditating to gather spirit qi. Then, he continued to move from one person to another.
After switching targets several times, it is finally Ren Qingchen's turn. The scene from his [Scan] show he is currently in a forest while wearing a huge backpack behind him. The surrounding vegetation is incredibly dense. With several extremely tall trees that went beyond the range of the [Scan] attached to him.
It seems what Ren Qingchen is doing right now interested him as Ren Qingquan finally stopped asking me to switch scenes.
After ten minutes of traveling, Ren Qingchen can be seen moving slower. I sense his body turning tense as if preparing for an attack. Soon, accompanied by a rustling sound, a brown wild boar appeared within [Scan]'s range.
The boar already detected Ren Qingchen's position as it madly dashed at him. But, with elegant footwork, I saw him easily evading the boar's attack.
Due to the inertia from its charge, that boar still moved forward for several seconds even after realizing it failed to hit its prey.
Ren Qingchen who saw it didn't leave the boar alone and moved toward its rear. With a slash of his sword, he easily sliced the body of that boar into two.
After killing the boar, I saw him skin it and collected the skin and husk. His movements are incredibly neat and tidy as if someone has practiced this move for several years.
Storing his gain from the boar inside his backpack, he continued to move forward while occasionally stopped to pick some grass that contained high energies while mumbling what sounded like the name of those plants. This continued for several minutes until I saw him meet a beast once again.
This time, the beast he met is a male and female pair of snakes. One the color of leaf green, while the other one a pale green color. Every part of their color scheme screams poisonous snakes!
When those snakes entered the range of the Lv 1 [Scan], they were already in an attacking position. With a swoosh, both snakes quickly glide in the air as if swimming. I guess they both jump from a tree nearby to deal a sneak attack to an unsuspecting prey.
Long before those snakes entered [Scan]'s range, Ren Qingchen had already prepared himself. When those snakes glided toward him, he pulled his sword and placed them at the place those snakes needed to pass to reach him.
As if doing a lover's suicide, both snake glided toward the blade of Ren Qingchen's sword. Thanks to their speed, it directly causes them to be split into several parts.
Moving slightly to evade the blood from both snakes, Ren Qingchen went forward toward the place where their corpses were located.
'hmm? Is he killing beasts to gather materials?' At this time, Ren Qingquan suddenly commented. To be honest, if he hadn't said anything, I would've thought he fell asleep suddenly.
As if realizing something, I feel him freeze for a moment before having an eureka moment to the point of subconsciously screaming. "Wait a damn minute! HE IS KILLING BEASTS!"
'System, can you share your screen to others? Also, should I grant that person a certain subsystem for your screen to work?' Hearing his question, I think I guessed his plan. Writing a message, I sent it to Ren Qingquan.
[System can share the panel screen for other people using 'Transfer'. For the screen to work, it requires a 'Scan' subsystem so the screen can detect the input from its user. It also requires the screen to be nearby something with the 'Transfer' subsystem so the System may change the word written on the screen. The further the target is from something with 'Transfer', the higher the cost for changing a system screen will be. Please note, different from the host's screen, the shared system screen is unable to detect input from the mind and requires word/touch input.]
I saw Ren Qingquan turn dizzy upon reading my explanation before asking. 'So, if I wish to create a screen to show someone's points, a simple map function, etc. Do I need to grant them both [Scan] and [Transfer]?'
[Yes and no. That person must be granted with 'Scan' and need to be nearby something granted with 'Transfer' subsystem. But, the 'Transfer' can be attached to an item. Of course, in this way, the item also needs to be granted with [Scan]. As long as the person with a system screen is within the range of that item's 'Scan', the system can also change his screen.]
After thinking for a moment, Ren Qingquan asked me. 'System, can you send something to Ren Qingchen's current position?'
[No, to transfer an item from host's place to another place require one of the following conditions to be met.
1.System must know their current location.
2. They must be within the host's range of 'Scan.
3. They must be attached with a 'Transfer' and work as a coordinate.]
These rules are something I found while experimenting with some stones.
'Then, System. Add [Transfer] to Ren Qingchen's subsystem. Also, send a status screen to him.'
[It requires 10 points to increase Ren Qingchen's subsystem to Lv 2, 10 points to create a system screen, and 1 point to transfer it to Ren Qingchen. Do you wish to proceed?]
With his nod, I sent him another message.
[Please specify the automatic program host wishes to set for the new system screen.]
Seeing this never before seen message, Ren Qingquan read the guide I wrote just now. The guide includes what kind of function can be attached to a system screen.
After reading the guide, Ren Qingquan decided on the function he wished to add. 'System, help me add map function, shop function, automatic [Devour] function, and status panel function.'
[Ding! To add a Map function requires the host to grant a subsystem with 'Scan' to the target. Shop function requires the host to grant a subsystem with 'Create' to the target. An Automatic 'Devour' function requires the host to grant subsystems with 'Devour' and 'Scan' to the target. Are you sure about it?]
'Yes.' After giving an affirmative response, Ren Qingquan said to me, 'Also, add [Devour] and [Create] to Ren Qingchen's subsystem.'
[Do you wish to spend 1100 points to increase Ren Qingchen's subsystem to Lv 4?]
Reading the notification I sent, Ren Qingquan nodded once again. With everything ready, I saw him rise from his bed.
'Now then, time to work.' Sitting above his bed, I saw him stretch his fingers before writing a message for Ren Qingchen's screen.
Switching my attention to the currently ignorant Ren Qingchen, I observed him for a moment to make sure he is currently not in combat. Thanks to the upgraded subsystem, now I can sense the situation 200 meters around him.
Checking for any trace of danger nearby, I activated Ren Qingchen's freshly granted [Transfer] and sent the sentence Ren Qingquan just wrote.
[Ding! You have been selected as the host for the World Devouring System.]
Wait! That is the name I used to introduce myself to Ren Qingquan, I already trademarked it in this world. You can't just arbitrarily use it!
Looking at the screen that suddenly appeared in front of him, Ren Qingchen froze on his step. Of course he will, when a screen calling itself a system appears while you're minding your own business, everyone will be shocked.
Quickly gathering his composure, I saw his eyes moving at extremely fast speed to inspect his surroundings. When he was sure there was no one around him, he quickly bowed with a cupped hand. "Junior Qingchen greets seniors. Junior's comprehension is limited and he can't understand what seniors mean with the word written in this light."
Seeing Ren Qingchen think he is talking to some kind of senior, I feel Ren Qingquan turning excited. Quickly typing on the screen, he sent a new message to Ren Qingchen.
[Detected the host has responded. The World Devouring system has been bound.]
Damn, he even copied the first sentence I said to him. Do you think I won't dare to sue you for stealing my intellectual rights?!
[To open the system panel, the host may stare or place your hand at the system icon at the right bottom corner of your vision. Host can also open it by calling "System Panel"]
Ren Qingchen, following the word written on the screen, moved his eyes to glare at a slightly distorted vortex-like glowing symbol at the bottom right of his vision. This symbol appeared once the screen was gone from his view.
Actually, that distorted vortex is Ren Qingquan's attempt to draw a spiraling dragon. The distortion comes from the fact he is unable to correctly imagine how a dragon looks. Coupled with the fact that even as a Gold Core Stage cultivator, he somehow can't draw a straight line. So, there is always only one truth! His drawing skill is utter rubbish!
Ren Qingchen glared at that vortex for a breath's time before a new screen opened. There are several words written on it.
[Status
Map
Shop
(Other functions is currently locked)]
Moving his finger around the screen, he saw it faintly rippled following the place he touched. Stopping at the [Status] button, I feel him place some force on it. Accepting that as an input, I changed the screen in front of him to the one showing his status.
[Name: (Fill your name here)
Realm: Qi Refining 0/2 (Amount below 1 strand won't be shown)
Absorbed Spirit Qi: 0/1 (amount below 1 strand won't be shown)
Points: 0 (You may gain points from devouring souls)
Profession: ?
Cultivation Method: ?
Magical Technique: ?
System Functions: Status,Map, Shop (locked)]
The screen is filled with many question marks because unlike Ren Qingquan that I have nurtured since he was a weakling, I don't know what kind of skills Ren Qingchen has. So, it is better to make him fill this kind of information himself.
Chapter 61. Pyramid Scheme Expert
After reading the system panel, Ren Qingchen frowned. To be precise, he frowned upon reading the word inside the bracket next to points talking about devouring souls.
Checking his surroundings, Ren Qingchen dashed toward a huge boulder. Sitting with crossed legs, I saw his mental power fluctuate weirdly. After closing his eyes for five minutes, he suddenly opened both of his eyes.
While still in a meditative position, Ren Qingchen muttered something while holding his chin. "Is this system a soul type weapon?"
He continued to close his eyes and soon, his mental power fluctuated once again. The way it fluctuates is different from the previous one. After another five minutes, his mental power fluctuation changed once again.
This continued until half an hour passed. In total, he fluctuates his mental power using six different ways. Opening his eyes once again, I saw him frown. "All of my soul detection methods are ineffective. It either means this system is not related to my soul or used an extremely powerful method to hide from my detections."
Eh? So he is busy detecting his soul this whole time? Does that mean mental power and soul have some relation to each other?
With the test done, he stared at the screen and asked. "System, what kind of existence are you?"
Waiting several minutes, he saw no answer and decided to look for the answer himself.
Checked the other two functions. First, he opened the map function. Once Ren Qingchen opened it, he could see a circle shaped light at another corner of his vision. Inside, a topographic map is shown with a dot at the center. Beside the dot at the center of that circle, there are also several small blue dots scattered around.
Probably curious about what the dots mean, he went toward the nearest place marked with a blue dot which is actually marking the items containing energy I detected from [Scan].
Once he arrived, I saw Ren Qingchen's face turn shocked. "A century year old Spring Vine!"
With a gentle movement, I saw him slowly pull a vine attached to a tree. After he was done, he placed them in his backpack.
Visiting another blue dot, he saw yet another century old plant. After picking them up, he muttered. "So, the blue dots mean precious plants?"
He visited the blue dots I marked on the map one by one. That is until he went near a certain blue dot. After being this close, I found out it is actually a beast. Changing the color of that dot into red, he immediately saw it.
Ren Qingchen quickly ran toward the place marked by the red dot. There, he saw an eagle perching atop a tree at the exact location that red dot pointed.
Changing his sight between the eagle and his map several times, he muttered. "So, the map can also detect nearby living creatures?"
Perhaps he stared at it too hard. But, my automated program actually detected his stare as an input and opened another screen.
[Name: Unknown
Realm: Qi Refining
Cultivation Method: ?
Magical Technique: ?
Note: An Eagle.]
After thinking for a moment, I saw him dashing toward that eagle. Unsheathing the sword at his waist, he spent a trace of his spirit qi and activated some kind of stealth technique. Sneaking toward that eagle, Rem Qingchen immediately slashed the eagle once it was within his range.
Without even the chance to chirp, that eagle immediately died. After it died, the automatic [Devour] program was activated and sent a notification to Ren Qingchen.
[Remnant soul detected. Do you wish to devour it?]
When asked that question, Ren Qingchen didn't immediately say yes and instead returned another question. "Whose soul is it?"
This time, I saw Ren Qingquan decided to answer as he typed while sitting at his bed.
[This soul comes from the eagle you just killed.]
"So this system can indeed answer questions. Is it conscious or..." Near the end, his muttering turned incomprehensible. Soon, he gave an affirmative answer, "Yes, please devour the soul."
Hearing his muttering, I can only say, Holy shiet! I think I am getting too used to Run Qingquan's brain level. So, when Ren Qingchen is baiting an answer to test whether his system has consciousness or not it directly caught me by surprise. I actually forgot to stop Ren Qingquan from answering him.
I guess Ren Qingchen will do more and more tests like this in the future. Should I tell Ren Qingquan about this? With his limited intelligence I am afraid he might get duped by Ren Qingchen.
Well, maybe later. Currently my soul watching soul is tickling and I sensed a possible interesting drama from this development. Living in this godforsaken darkness is incredibly boring even if I can see many people's lives at once.
Meanwhile, at this time, the automatic [Devour] program activated once more and sent a notification to Ren Qingchen.
[Ding! Successfully devoured 5 points!]
For your information, my automatic program turns some action into a passive thing by occupying some of my calculation power. Of course I can still activate things manually. Just like humans can subconsciously breathe but after being reminded about it, they can still breathe manually.
At the same time as Ren Qingchen gained his first point. On Ren Qingquan's bed, I sent him a notification.
[Ding! Successfully devoured 5 points!]
That's right! Ren Qingquan actually thought the exact same thing as me and took 50% of Ren Qingchen's income. That means when Ren Qingchen devoured a soul, 50% went to me, 25% went to Ren Qingquan, and only the remaining 25% can be used by him.
Returning to Ren Qingchen, after getting his first 5 points. I saw him trying to open the shop function. But, as there are no items currently sold there, he only got a notification.
[Shop function is currently locked]
Ren Qingquan sighed while sitting in his bed. 'What a pity, my system shop only sells barely useful things or items that only I can use like the refined spirit qi generated from Immortal Tempering Technique. Otherwise, even with only refined spirit Qi suitable for him being sold at the system shop, it will be enough to make Ren Qingchen work like a mule.'
'For now, I can only lock the shop function until there is a suitable item to be sold.' Then, I heard him continue. 'It's not like I never thought of just secretly devouring the souls of the people killed. But, even I know people will work harder when there is incentive to do that work.'
When I heard his plan, I decided to remove the limit from the system shop and allow him to create anything that has been scanned. Writing a new message, I sent it to him.
[Congratulations to the host for completing a hidden mission: Pyramid Scheme Expert. System shop has been upgraded. From now on, the system shop can create anything the host has scanned using your own 'Scan' or the 'Scan' from your subsystems.]
Ren Qingquan read all that and immediately commented. 'System, don't you think your reward comes just at the right time? Can you actually manipulate it? Then how about giving me a mission to sleep for 8 hours which rewards 1 million points?'
[Nope. The system mission is random and released based on the host's current condition. Please see System's sincere smile if you don't believe it. (｡◕‿◕｡)]
Ren Qingquan : (¬_¬)
After gaining that upgrade, Ren Qingquan opened the shop function for Ren Qingchen. Of course, he doesn't immediately add it randomly.
First, he asked me 'System, can you create a refined spirit qi for Ren Qingchen?'
[Yes.]
Then, he continued. 'Add it to his shop. Also, place his absorbed spirit qi and the items he gathered previously to the shop.'
[Done.]
To be honest, I know there are so many ways this can go wrong. But I'll let Ren Qingquan have his fun this time. If push comes to shove, I will just make Ren Qingchen devour his surroundings and summon that space crack thing to kill him.
Waiting until Ren Qingchen killed another beast and a notification telling him he gained 5 points rang. Ren Qingquan sent the message he had prepared.
[Congratulations to the host for unlocking the shop function.]
Ren Qingchen stopped skinning the beast upon seeing the sudden notification. Increasing his dismantling speed, he immediately opened the system shop once he was done.
Looking at the shop that has been filled, I saw his face turn shocked upon seeing the list of items.
[Shop
A Trace of Refined Spirit Qi: 2 points each.
Detail: A trace (1/1000 strand) of Spirit Qi refined by the host. It will immediately be sent to the host's body.
A Trace of Absorbed Spirit Qi: 1 point each.
Detail: A trace (1/1000 strand) of spirit Qi refined by the host. It will immediately be sent to the host's body. Excess Spirit Qi will be retained and automatically added once the host's dantian can contain it.
Century Years Old Vine: 1 point
Detail: -
Morning Dew Petal: 1 point.
Detail: -
Four clawed Branch: 1 point.
Detail:-
...]
The refined spirit qi is already understandable. As for the plants, I just named it according to the word muttered by Ren Qingchen while he picked the plants.
After regaining his composure, Ren Qingchen stared at the refined spirit qi and absorbed spirit qi while muttering incomprehensible words. Once he stared at the part selling plants, he had a thoughtful look on his face. "This list of plants."
Pressing to purchase the Four Clawed Branch, Ren Qingchen spent 1 point. Looking at the branch, he muttered. "As expected, this system is actually capable of listening and seeing my surroundings! Calling this Sweet Chrysanthemum Branch with a nonsensical name was truly the right step!"
Ren Qingquan: (☉｡☉)
System: (☉｡☉)
Chapter 62. Persecution Delusion Patient
After shocking both of us, Ren Qingchen continued. "This list of plants are the plants I collected before. Even the names are exactly the same as the words I muttered."
He checked the Four Clawed Branch which is actually called Sweet Chrysanthemum Branch he just purchased, and compared it with the one on his bag. Activating a magical technique, Ren Qingchen glared at every detail engraved on both branches.
Oh no! I quickly guessed what he was trying to do. Actually, all this time I usually create the thing I scanned as it is. At most, I will change its shape slightly. That means, there might be some trace of copying if someone does a detailed inspection!
Just like the branch on his hand. Although compared to the original, the one I created is slightly thicker or thinner at certain places and is bent at different places. But, there will be some parts where the motif on both branches' barks are exactly the same.
As expected, Ren Qingchen immediately found a flaw! There are tiny traces of insect bites that I accidentally copied!
"So, this system also has the power of duplicating things. Although there are some efforts to change its shape. But, there is indeed some trace of similarities." Ren Qingchen slightly nodded his head while continuing to stare at both branches to look for further similarity. "At first, I thought it would open a teleportation formation to give me the item I purchased. But, this ability to create things truly went beyond my expectation! I am starting to believe the refined spirit qi sold in its shop."
Once he is done checking both branches he talks with a faint tone of appreciation while staring at my screen. To be specific, it is the tone people usually use when they see an amazing work of art. "The power of devouring souls, detecting treasures, and duplicating items. What an incredible treasure!"
At this time I can only tremble inside the Consciousness Space.
Mommy, please take me home. This person is so scary. .·´¯`(>▂<)´¯`·.
Ren Qingquan, I am sorry for secretly calling you stupid all this time. I'd rather have Ren Qingquan randomly guessing my secret through sheer luck and instinct, rather than this guy deducting my ability one by one.
Upon seeing Ren Qingchen's detective show, I started to doubt my own intelligence. I thought I have gotten smarter with the help of [Calculate]. But, is it possible that [Calculate] like its name implies, only increases my calculation ability and not my intelligence?
Ren Qingquan, after also being abused by Ren Qingchen's show of intelligence, immediately said to me. 'System, I remember you can also control the subsystems I grant. So, help me watch over Ren Qingquan. Wake me up if something important happens.'
Then he lay on his bed and closed both his eyes, leaving me alone to handle Ren Qingchen.
Returning to Ren Qingchen, he is currently opening the map while searching for beasts and treasures. Within an hour, he already gained another 10 points from killing foundation establishment beasts.
Should I say as expected of a suspected regressor. Doing leapfrog battles against a beast one level above him is a breeze.
At this time, the sun already started to set into the horizon. Seeing the sky that turned darker with each passing second, I saw him open the map to look for suitable shelter.
Fifteen minutes later, he found a suitable place. The place he selected is a small crack on the wall of a not so tall cliff. Nearby, there is a boulder just big enough to close most of the crack.
Pushing the boulder until leaving only an opening he can barely fit, Ren Qingchen went inside the crack. Upon arriving there, I saw him activate a magical technique on his palm. Due to that technique, after placing his palm on that boulder, there is a suction force that helps him grip the boulder.
Thanks to that suction force, he can pull the boulder easily and finally close the crack. Leaving only several extremely small openings for air to circulate.
Pulling a spirit stone and several storage bottles containing unknown liquids and powders from inside his backpack, I saw him mix them together inside an empty jade bottle following a certain composition.
Looking at the mixed thing inside that jade bottle, he nodded before pouring it toward the spirit stone he pulled before. Just like that, the spirit stone starts to glow with faint blue light, barely enough to light up the inside of his crack.
"Now, I have created the insect repelling light, let's test the spirit qi sold by this system." Muttering those words, Ren Qingquan sat in a cross-legged position. Opening the shop panel, he spent 1 point and purchased a trace of spirit qi.
[Do you wish to purchase 1 trace of absorbed spirit qi for 1 point? Yes/No]
"Yes." Once he accepted, the automatic program I placed on him created a trace of absorbed spirit directly to Ren Qingchen's dantian.
Seriously, creating this automatic program with 10 points worth of calculation power is absolutely worth it. It really helped with lessening my burden.
When Ren Qingchen felt the additional trace of absorbed spirit qi in his dantian. I saw him activating several magical techniques consecutively, those techniques are most likely used to inspect the spirit qi I just created. He continued to do that until the spirit qi I created is the only one left.
Opening his eyes, Ren Qingchen frowned. "This trace of spirit qi is clean and doesn't contain any trap. It is in fact too clean to the point of being suspicious."
What the fuck? Why are you complaining when the spirit qi I sold is clean? Can't you trust other humans? I mean, can't you trust this system? Did you get duped real hard in your previous life to the point of paranoia?
Wait a moment, maybe he indeed got duped in his previous life. Don't those regressor MCs usually get betrayed by their lover/ friend/ family at an important moment and die?
At last, Ren Qingchen managed to overcome his persecutory delusion and used the spirit qi he purchased from me to cultivate.
While looking at Ren Qingchen diligently cultivating, I fell into a daze. To be honest, except for that extremely scary deduction ability of his, often muttering to himself, and the persecutory delusion he just shows. He is exactly the kind of host I seek. Similar to those xianxia MC I read, he is incredibly diligent, not so silly, and has a broad range of knowledge from god knows where.
Although working together with Ren Qingquan also has its own benefits like his nonsensically high luck and the weird ideas he often has. But, his random actions are seriously bad for my nonexistent heart. I am afraid he might suddenly die if I get too immersed in an experiment one day.
The whole night passes with Ren Qingchen cultivating and Ren Qingquan sleeping. Now, I have nothing to do and got a bit bored.
Remembering the way Ren Qingchen mixed things together to create that insect repelling light. My hand got itchy and I also wanted to try experimenting on it.
After looking around my panel, I saw the space with 2x the time I got previously. This is probably the most suitable place I have to experiment. Because when inside my own [Storage] space, [Transfer] got a massive price discount. Which is why when Ren Qingquan wished to modify his metal, I required him to store it inside [Storage]. I still don't know how this discount works though.
Creating the ingredients I secretly scanned Ren Qingchen when he previously created that insect repelling light. I mirrored the steps he do, using [Transfer] to teleport items from one place to another, I mixed it all while activating [Scan] to detect what is happening.
Once they are mixed together, I sensed no change on the items. That is until I introduced the mud like finished product to a recently created spirit stone.
That spirit stone caused some reaction to that finished product. The initially mud-like thing started to absorb the spirit qi stored inside the spirit stone.
To be more precise, after mixing several liquid-like substances, they actually have the ability to absorb spirit qi inside the stone. Then, the spirit qi are sent to the dust like material that make up the mud like finished product. Upon being contaminated by spirit qi, those small dust reacted and released light and a faint smell. From what Ren Qingchen called it, that smell probably has the effect of repelling insects.
Looking at this magical scene, I can only scream, long live xianxia style chemistry!
With the success of my first trial, I got encouraged and tried to mix the items I already scanned. With several trial and errors, I feel my understanding of material's reaction to spirit qi steadily increases.
When morning arrived, I sighed. Except for a pill that can barely be called a success, all of my experiments ended in failure. In total, I spent close to 200 energy.
As for my successful pill, I called it the Fart Pill. Because after being mixed with a sufficient amount of spirit qi either from spirit stone, someone's absorbed spirit qi, or even the ambient spirit qi. The pill will disperse into mist within a minute. From that mist, [Scan] detected an unholy level of disgusting smell. In terms of a human's sense of smell, that smell is equal to fermented shit mixed with some vomit and a mass graveyard's worth of rotting corpses.
After selling my masterpiece at the shop, I must find a way to throw out the result of my experiment. Right now, the 1 square meter space with 2x speed is filled with trash and the smell coming from Fart Pill.
Checking on Ren Qingquan, I found him still sleeping like a baby.
Pulling the disgusting mess which is the result of my experiment, I spent 1 energy and attached one of them with [Devour]. Next, before the smell from Fart Pill could disperse, I quickly used [Transfer] and buried it a kilometer below Divination Peak.
Activating the [Devour] on them, a space crack soon opened and swallowed all of those messy things. With this, the trace of my crime is gone for good.
Just in time, when the crack closed. Ren Qingchen who previously meditated inside his small crack finally stood up. Stretching his body, he placed both of his palms to the boulder and pushed it.
*Rumble*
Following the rumbling sound and several falling dust, an opening he can barely pass through appeared.
"I have checked the absorbed spirit sold by the system and there is indeed no trap left on it. Maybe, I can indeed trust this light screen calling itself a system." Ren Qingquan muttered as he opened the system shop. Placing his hand above the screen selling refined spirit qi. "Now then, let's try the most important item sold."
When he pressed it, the automatic program I left detected his input.
[Do you wish to purchase 1 trace of refined spirit qi for 1 point? Yes/No]
Ren Qingchen pressed on yes while feeling a bit nervous. I even saw some beads of sweat on his forehead. Soon, a trace of refined spirit qi is added to his dantian.
I saw him close his eyes and once again used several weird means to detect it. Even with only a trace of spirit qi inside his dantian, he is still capable of doing several different methods to test my refined spirit qi.
Then, I saw him sigh in relief after he finished examining that spirit qi.
"So, is this system truly here to help me?"
Yes! Yes! I am here to frickin help you. So, enough of your suspicion and start working!
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone