The Primordial Vessel System

The night sky stretched endlessly above Long Haochen's courtyard, stars glimmering like distant flames. A cool breeze rustled the pine tree beside him, but he barely noticed. His mind was entirely focused on the Void Spirit Art.

Sitting cross-legged on the ground, he inhaled deeply, drawing spiritual energy toward him. Thin strands of golden light drifted through the air, pulled into his body by Primordial Absorption.

Inside his consciousness, his Primordial Vessel floated within the vast void. The energy he absorbed entered the vessel, swirling like a golden mist before being refined into pure spiritual essence.

[Vessel Capacity: 10/100]

The number flickered in his vision, a constant reminder of his progress. He needed to push further.

He closed his eyes, focusing on the energy flow. The Void Spirit Art described the vessel as an extension of oneself—a container that could grow infinitely. To strengthen it, he had to expand its capacity.

More. I need more!

With renewed determination, Haochen activated Primordial Absorption at full force. The spiritual energy in the air trembled before rushing toward him in a steady stream.

The moment it entered his body, a searing pain erupted in his chest. His veins felt like they were burning, his muscles stiffening as the energy pushed against his limits.

But he refused to stop.

He endured the pain, guiding the wild energy into his vessel.

[Vessel Capacity: 12/100]

His body trembled. Sweat dripped down his forehead, but he pressed on.

[Vessel Capacity: 15/100]

His vision blurred. The strain was immense, his muscles on the verge of collapse.

Then—

Boom!

A powerful force exploded within him, spreading through his limbs like a roaring tide. The pressure that had weighed him down moments ago suddenly lifted, replaced by a sensation of boundless energy.

At the same time, a notification appeared before him.

---

[Breakthrough Achieved!]

Cultivation Rank: Vessel Awakening Stage – Second Layer

---

Haochen's eyes shot open, golden light flashing within them. He clenched his fists, feeling a newfound strength coursing through his body.

His cultivation had advanced!

He exhaled slowly, calming his racing heart. This was just the first of many breakthroughs, but it proved one thing—his system worked.

For years, he had been called a cripple, destined to remain powerless. But now, he was cultivating. And soon, he would surpass those who had mocked him.

I'm not done yet.

Without hesitation, he resumed his meditation, determined to refine more energy.

---

A Sudden Visitor

As dawn approached, a loud knocking echoed through the small house.

Haochen opened his eyes, his brows furrowing. He wasn't expecting anyone.

He stood up and made his way to the door.

Outside stood a young girl dressed in a light blue robe. She had delicate features, sharp eyes, and an air of confidence that made her stand out.

It was Li Xueyan, the granddaughter of Elder Li—the strongest cultivator in Qinghe Village.

Haochen narrowed his eyes. "What are you doing here?"

Xueyan crossed her arms, giving him a scrutinizing look. "I heard a rumor that you started cultivating."

Haochen remained silent.

She smirked. "So it's true."

He sighed. "Is that all? If you came just to mock me, you can leave."

To his surprise, she shook her head. "I'm not here to mock you. I'm here to challenge you."

Haochen raised an eyebrow. "Challenge?"

Xueyan nodded. "Tomorrow is the annual Qinghe Village Martial Trials. Every young cultivator will participate to test their strength. Since you claim to be a cultivator now, I want to see if you can actually fight."

Haochen's expression darkened. He had been so focused on absorbing energy that he hadn't even considered combat. His cultivation was progressing, but he had no battle experience.

Xueyan smirked again. "What's wrong? Afraid?"

Haochen met her gaze, his determination unwavering. "Not at all."

Xueyan turned to leave. "Good. Then prove yourself tomorrow."

As she walked away, Haochen clenched his fists.

A real battle… I need to be ready.

He turned back toward his house, his mind set on a new goal.

Tonight, he wouldn't just cultivate—he would train for battle.