Aksai was sure the caretaker had seen many Spirit Refiners dying in their caves while trying to achieve a breakthrough into the coveted 2nd Spirit cultivation realm.
He must have seen many young talents of their generation injuring themselves and giving up on their dream of becoming Foundation Building Experts.
So, it was only natural that the caretaker would treat Aksai like he didn't matter when he was a Spirit Refining Perfectionist. However, he immediately started treating Aksai like minor royalty the moment he achieved his breakthrough.
Power earns respect, after all.
"Hm. I was lucky and managed to establish my foundation."
Aksai nodded, acknowledging the caretaker's respect.
Despite the old man's advanced age, Aksai's higher cultivation base granted him seniority in the eyes of the cultivator's society. It was a world where strength dictated respect, and Aksai was completely fine with it.
You can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets. Also, ladders are tricky.