Morning arrived with the sounds of the town stirring to life. Merchants prepared their goods, and the narrow streets filled with the aroma of freshly cooked food. Chen Wu, his straw hat once again shading his face, stepped out of the inn. He sensed something unusual in the air but chose to remain calm.As he walked through the market to buy a few necessities, two men in black approached him. They didn’t look like ordinary traders—their upright posture and the hidden swords beneath their long cloaks gave them away.“Mr. Chen Wu,” one of them called in a flat tone.Chen Wu stopped, his sharp gaze hidden beneath the shadow of his hat. “Who are you?”“We are merely messengers. Our master wishes to meet with you,” said the man as he handed over a small scroll.Chen Wu took the scroll and unrolled it slowly. The message inside was brief but clear:> “To Mr. Chen Wu,We have heard of your extraordinary abilities. I believe a meeting between us would be mutually beneficial. If you are willing

Swoosh!Chen Wu stood before the grand gates of the Sky Pavilion. The cold night breeze tousled his hair as he observed the magnificent structure. The lanterns glowing at every corner only made the place appear more foreboding.“I’ve been waiting for you,” Zhao Long’s voice echoed, breaking the stillness of the night.At the top of the steps, Zhao Long emerged with a group of heavily armed guards behind him. They all looked ready for battle, though their eyes betrayed a deep sense of doubt.Chen Wu stepped forward without fear. “I should have known you’re a coward, Zhao Long. Too afraid to face an opponent on your own.”Zhao Long smirked coldly, though his face had turned slightly pale. “You underestimate the power of the Sky Pavilion. Don’t think you can come here and leave alive.”Clang!The guards charged immediately, their swords gleaming under the moonlight. Chen Wu didn’t move a muscle until they were within reach. Then, with a single leap, he soared high into the air, his body

Chen Wu walked slowly along the narrow path toward the next city. The air around him felt heavy—not from humidity or heat, but from the new aura that surrounded him after ascending a star. Each step he took left an invisible mark, like the shadow of death trailing wherever he went.The sky began to darken, the sun setting behind the mountains, casting a red glow over the horizon. Chen Wu paid no attention to the scenery; his focus remained entirely on what lay ahead. He knew that ascending a star in such an unusual way would attract attention, but he hadn’t expected the threat to come so soon.As he arrived at a crossroads, Chen Wu stopped. There, three men stood in the middle of the path, blocking his way. They wore simple dark robes, but the aura they emitted was anything but ordinary. Each of them held power at the Earth Realm, Two-Star level, yet the way they stood and gazed at Chen Wu revealed they were no mere fighters.“Someone dares to kill members of the Yin Clan in this terr

Chen Wu passed through the city’s grand gates, his demeanor calm but his mind vigilant. He knew that his steps toward the Yin Clan had to be cautious. This time, information would be his greatest weapon, even more than his sword.The gatekeeper, an elderly man with a gray beard and an air of wisdom, directed him to someone who could help.“If it’s information you’re after, seek out an old man at the Moonlit Tavern. He’s known for spinning tales of ancient times, but don’t be fooled. Beneath his stories lie truths only the keen can discern.”Chen Wu gave a brief nod. “Thank you, sir.”By the time Chen Wu reached the tavern, dusk had fallen. The establishment was modest, adorned with red lanterns at the entrance, their gentle glow welcoming visitors. Inside, the atmosphere buzzed with chatter and laughter as patrons enjoyed their drinks at the crowded tables.Chen Wu scanned the room, looking for the old man described. In the corner, he spotted a white-haired figure wearing a tattered r

After the auction ended, Chen Wu left the hall with calm steps. Night had fallen, and the city streets were beginning to fill with lanterns swaying gently in the wind. Yet the peaceful ambiance of the city could not distract Chen Wu from the ominous feeling that had been lingering since he exited the auction.At a quiet corner of an alley, Chen Wu slowed his pace. He stopped and spoke without turning around."How long do you plan on following me? Losing at the auction wasn’t enough for you?"The shadows behind him shifted. Four men emerged from the darkness, led by Fang Zhu, still holding his fan. His face was a picture of suppressed rage.“You’re quite bold, newcomer. Not only did you take the item I wanted, but you also humiliated me in front of everyone,” Fang Zhu said coldly.Chen Wu turned to face them, his expression calm. “I merely followed the auction’s rules. If that embarrassed you, perhaps the problem lies with your ego.”Fang Zhu growled. “Do you think I’ll let you leave u