Cherreads

Chapter 4 - Chapter 3: Awakening of the Aperture

(AN: Hello to all readers around the world! I hope you're enjoying what I've written so far. I apologize for disappearing for a while—I've just finished my fifth semester at university, and it's been tough to find the inspiration (and the time) to write, between school, work, and assignments. Enjoy!

Also, I'm working on a new chapter where I'll explore a bit more of the story.

Does anyone remember the "Wine Emperor"? Hehe... This is going to be fun!)

Wang Cheng Mountain was the domain of the Tie Clan, their ancestral home for countless generations. It stood tall and majestic, shrouded in a thick mist that allowed only glimpses of its towering peaks.

Within the mountain, a vast underground complex housed the Tie Clan Bastion—a special place not only for many Gu Masters beginning their cultivation journey, but also the heart of a great wealth of primordial stones.

Beneath the earth, in a chamber dimly lit by stones that emitted an ethereal glow, the Spiritual Spring shimmered with a soft light—a warm radiance that touched every corner of the cave's darkness.

Each year, during the Aperture Awakening Ceremony, the youth of the Tie Clan gathered at the Spiritual Spring to undergo the trial that would determine their fate and mark the beginning of their path as Gu Masters.

From a distance, the elders were already watching, carefully evaluating the new sprouts. For many, it was the chance to prove their worth to the clan and leave behind their mortal status; for others, it was their last hope to belong to the prestigious Tie Clan.

The Tie Clan was no ordinary clan.

With three Spiritual Springs scattered across the mountain, only one was used for the Awakening Ceremony. This spring was sacred, protected by multiple layers of security, and only the most distinguished members of the clan had access to it.

In the darkness, the spring's water emitted a faint glow, reminiscent of the Milky Way at night.

The water flowed from a shadowy place deep within the cave. The lagoon was so clear that fish could be seen swimming, along with aquatic plants and stones on the bottom.

On this day, the Tie Clan Bastion was filled with youth, all sharing the same goal: to reach as far as possible toward the spiritual source and become true Gu Masters.

At that moment, a Gu Master drew the attention of the excited youths.

"Attention, everyone. When I call your name, step forward. Those called must cross this river to the opposite shore. Walk as far as you can; of course, the farther you go, the better. Understood?"

Tie Zhen Lin, the academy elder and overseer of the ceremony, watched the youths closely as they approached the spring when called. His gaze was firm, his expression unreadable. He knew that many of those present would not pass the trial, but it was his duty to observe the few who would truly stand out.

Today's ceremony would mark a turning point in their lives; only those blessed by fate would rise above the crowd, while the rest would fade into the darkness of obscurity.

"Let the trials begin," Tie Zhen Lin murmured, his deep voice echoing through the cave walls.

Among the youths, Tie Heng Zu stepped forward. His expression was tense, but in the end, he gathered his courage. Many believed his aptitude would be promising, but the pressure of the moment could make anyone nervous. Deep down, he feared he wouldn't live up to everyone's expectations.

Tie Yao Bo, standing beside him, tried to keep his composure, though his hands were trembling. His talent wasn't particularly remarkable, but he at least hoped to reach a Grade C.

If he could make it to the twentieth step, he'd be satisfied. In the clan, a Grade C aptitude was considered acceptable—but it was nothing compared to those who possessed true talent.

The crowd in the Bastion stirred. One by one, the youths approached the spring, eyes fixed on the water that shimmered with a faint, captivating glow. Each step toward the water was a wager on their future. Some advanced with confidence, others hesitated, and a few stopped before even taking the first step.

"Tie Yao Bo," the Grand Elder called out loudly.

Tie Yao Bo was the first to step into the spring. His heart pounded and his body trembled slightly as he touched the water. "One!" he thought, feeling his pulse quicken. He felt an invisible force pushing against him, but moments later, the pressure on his shoulders eased.

"How many steps will he reach?" someone whispered among the attentive crowd.

With a faint spark of light emerging from the spring, Tie Yao Bo took his second step, but the glow quickly began to fade. The spring wasn't reacting as he had hoped. As he continued forward, the pressure increased, and by the eighth step, it felt as if he had slammed into an invisible wall.

"Only eight steps?" came a hushed whisper from the crowd.

Tie Yao Bo stopped, pale, and returned to the group with unsteady steps. "Eight steps… I don't have enough aptitude," he muttered, as his hope began to fade.

Tie Zhen Lin silently observed the result with indifference. In the ceremony, any youth who failed to reach at least twenty steps would be considered for assignments outside the main path of the Gu Masters within the clan. The murmurs among the other youths intensified, as Tie Yao Bo's result became a harsh reminder of fate's cruelty.

"Tie Heng Zu," Tie Zhen Lin called out, his sharp voice signaling the next turn.

Tie Heng Zu advanced with steady steps, without hesitation. His face showed a mix of nervousness and hope, fully aware that his future depended on this moment.

As he walked toward the spring, small specks of light began to gather around him, illuminating his path in an unusual way.

"One... two... three!" he counted silently as he advanced, surrounded by the glow of the spring. He didn't feel any significant pressure on his body; the water seemed to flow with him, offering no resistance. Upon reaching the seventeenth step, the light began to dim slightly.

"Twenty steps! I've reached Grade C!" he thought with relief.

But the glow of the spring continued to fade, and Tie Heng Zu, with a tired expression, stopped at the twenty-ninth step, unable to move forward despite his efforts. Although he hadn't reached Grade B, Grade C was enough for him to continue rising within the clan.

Tie Zhen Lin nodded in approval.

"Tie Heng Zu, twenty-nine steps, Grade C. Step forward, I will measure your Primordial Sea."

Tie Heng Zu returned to the academy elder. The latter extended his hand, placed it on the young man's shoulder, and closed his eyes, his face deeply focused.

Finally, he withdrew his hand and nodded, writing in the record: "Tie Heng Zu, Primordial Sea at 58%."

The crowd watched in silence as Tie Heng Zu returned, their expressions a mix of pride and unease. He knew he had done enough to maintain his position, but it still wasn't enough to stand out among his peers.

The next youth called was Tie Yan Mei, a girl known for her determination and tireless training. Her aptitude had been a topic of discussion among the others, and many expected her to be one of the few to surpass thirty steps.

"Tie Yan Mei!" Tie Zhen Lin's voice rang out with authority, urging her forward.

Tie Yan Mei stepped forward with confidence, her energy steady. The moment she touched the water, the glow intensified almost instantly, and the tiny specks of light gathered more densely around her.

"Twenty-seven... thirty," she counted silently, advancing step by step, refusing to give in.

The spring continued to react, but when she reached the thirty-fifth step, the light began to fade sharply, stopping completely at the thirty-sixth.

"Thirty-six steps! Grade B. Well done! Step forward. Let me examine your Primordial Sea."

The murmurs grew louder among the crowd.

"Tie Yan Mei, Grade B. Impressive!"

"Ha, girls really are lucky... Just wait, I'm sure one of us will go even further."

After a brief evaluation, Tie Zhen Lin expressed his satisfaction. "Primordial Essence at 66%. She may cultivate with strength."

"Next! Tie Pank Do."

As the youths continued to advance one by one, expectations rose like an invisible tide.

The soft, ethereal glow of the underground stones shimmered gently, lighting the path toward the Spiritual Spring, which now seemed to come alive, reacting to the spirit of each young cultivator who approached. After Tie Yan Mei's impressive display, whispers quickly spread among the spectators. The murmurs of the crowd blended with the voices of the elders, who watched with great attention.

"Grade B… That's acceptable. The Yan family is lucky today. Tie Yan Mei has a promising future," commented Tie Zhen Lin, his deep voice cutting through the air as he looked at the girl with faint approval.

But before his words could fully fade, Tie Zhen Lin raised his hand and called out another name.

"Tie Heng Jiu!" —Tie Zhen Lin's voice rang out, clear and firm.

With determination, Tie Heng Jiu stepped toward the spring. He could feel all eyes fixed on him, and as he approached the water, his breathing stabilized, controlled—as though the weight of the moment pressed down on him.

The instant his foot touched the water, a soft white glow bloomed around him, followed by a reaction from the spring that filled him with confidence.

"One... two... three... four..." he counted silently, maintaining composure, each step more assured than the last.

"Twenty steps!" he thought with relief. "There's still hope."

He advanced with vigor, the spring's light responding to his presence. "Thirty steps... thirty-five..." The eyes of the spectators widened, and murmurs rippled through the crowd.

"Thirty steps... thirty-five..."

The crowd murmured louder now, awe creeping into their voices.

At last, Tie Heng Jiu reached the thirty-eighth step. The spring burst into a blinding light, but then, suddenly, the energy faded. The light around him vanished in an instant, and a formless pressure nearly drove him to his knees.

"Thirty-eight steps! Grade B!" announced Tie Zhen Lin firmly, letting out a silent sigh of approval.

The murmurs intensified. Tie Heng Jiu had surpassed expectations, and his future in the clan was secured. His face lit up with a mixture of pride and relief.

"Tie Heng Jiu, Grade B! Excellent result. Primordial Sea at 74%," said Tie Zhen Lin, nodding slightly as he watched the young man return with both satisfaction and humility.

Despite the joy of his success, Tie Heng Jiu knew the path ahead was long. This was only the beginning, and the true test would begin once his aptitude was put to the trial of the harsh cultivation road.

A momentary silence fell over the cavern, and all eyes turned to the next youth.

"Step forward, Tie Kie Jan!"

The voice echoed through the chamber. Among the observing youths, Tie Kie Jan stepped forward, wearing the same calm expression as always.

Without the slightest hint of nervousness or hesitation, he walked toward the spring. Though his heart beat strongly, his demeanor remained serene. The eyes of the elders and fellow cultivators followed his every movement, filled with anticipation. Like the others, the Spiritual Spring responded to his presence with a soft light that surrounded him the moment he touched the water.

A natural silence fell over the crowd as Tie Kie Jan entered the spring, advancing step by step. The audience—both young and old—held their breath, waiting for the outcome.

Tie Zhen Lin's eyes gleamed with a light he could hardly conceal. His face remained expressionless, but his thoughts ran far deeper than his features revealed.

"This young one... will be interesting. I hope he lives up to my expectations. After all... he is his son."

Tie Kie Jan's status as the son of Tie Peng Ziu was an undeniable fact among the elders. They held high expectations for him and had little doubt that this young man would one day attain the same status as themselves—as a clan elder. However, this information was not made public at the request of Tie Peng Ziu. In truth, it was a direct order from Tie Kie Jan himself, issued to avoid complications or forming unnecessary connections. His goal was cultivation, and with such a powerful backing, it was obvious he would make proper use of it.

Naturally, the fact that he was a reserved and socially distant youth became a matter of concern. The academy had methods to deal with that—specifically, the "Brainwashing Gu" commonly used by many righteous-path clans. It was employed to instill ideas of morality, sacrifice for the clan, and unity among members. But how could they implement it openly? No one wanted to get too close and risk offending a Rank 5 elder within the clan—especially one whose reputation was only surpassed by figures like Tie Xue Leng and the current clan leader, Tie Mu Bai.

Moreover, Tie Peng Ziu's strength and character were well known among the higher-ups. He had been considered a genius since childhood by his clan, and his power had only solidified with time.

Tie Kie Jan felt a constant tingling throughout his body as small clusters of light gathered around his torso.

"Hope Gu... even after more than a million years of experience, this sensation still feels like the first time," he thought to himself, keeping his face expressionless.

The light not only intensified around the lower part of his body but seemed to encircle his waist with an unusual glow. His steps were nearly effortless, and the water shimmered more brightly with each movement.

"What is this?" murmurs began to rise among the observing youths. Some elders exchanged curious glances, though their expressions remained calm. "A top-tier talent?"

When he reached the thirtieth step, the entire crowd fell silent.

"Thirty steps... in such a short time?" thought a nearby youth with a sigh. This surpassed the expectations of any other participant in the ceremony even those already recognized for their talent.

"Grade B! Thirty-six steps!" one of the elders murmured, barely able to contain his astonishment.

A Grade B within the clan was rare, but seeing more than two individuals with such aptitude in a single trial sparked new hope in the hearts of the observing elders.

However, Tie Kie Jan did not stop. Upon reaching the thirty-seventh step, the light of Hope Gu still remained faintly stable. But, just like with the others, the glow quickly began to dim, reaching the limit of what Hope Gu could gather around his body. Tie Kie Jan's progress had been exceptional.

"Forty steps? Will he surpass them all?" whispered some of the youths, as the atmosphere thickened with a palpable tension.

Upon reaching the thirty-ninth step, Tie Kie Jan felt an intense pressure bearing down on him. He couldn't move forward. Even so, he showed no sign of frustration—not even a flicker on his face.

"Thirty-nine steps... Grade B," Tie Zhen Lin thought, a faint smile on his lips as he observed the youth with a glimmer of interest. "Not bad."

For a brief moment, the noise in the cavern faded as the other youths tried to process what they had just witnessed. Not everyone possessed the talent or luck to reach Grade A, but even Grade B was a significant achievement—future elder status was all but guaranteed, unless death came early or one's aptitude diminished due to external factors.

Tie Zhen Lin carefully examined Tie Kie Jan's Primordial Sea, nodded in approval, and declared:

"Tie Kie Jan, Primordial Sea at 79%. He has the potential for rigorous development."

At that very moment, another young man was called and stepped forward. Nervousness was clear on his face, and all eyes turned to him.

"Tie Ling Long!" Tie Zhen Lin's voice rang powerfully through the air.

Like the others, the young man walked nervously toward the spring. But unlike Tie Kie Jan, Hope Gu showed no immediate reaction.

The water flickered faintly, and Tie Ling Long's first steps felt like a constant struggle. Each one was a full effort for the poor boy; the pressure on his shoulders only grew heavier. By the time he reached the fifth step, the light of Hope Gu within the spring had completely faded, and a sudden jolt caused him to stumble backward.

"Five steps… he lacks the aptitude to become a Gu Master," Tie Zhen Lin said with an impassive face. Results like these were all too common during the ceremony.

Tie Kie Jan, with his usual calm, returned to the edge of the spring, eyes lowered but mind clear. He had heard Tie Zhen Lin's harsh voice when addressing the participant who had followed him, and out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of the boy's sorrowful face.

It's like watching someone's future fall apart!

He could only sigh inwardly. In a world like this, there are only two types of people: those who take, and those who are taken from. But in the face of personal gain, how could the tragedy of another truly move Tie Kie Jan's heart?

The first step on his journey had finally been fulfilled, and with a Grade B aptitude—something most would consider a success. But to him, it was merely the beginning of a long road.

Even so, his face showed no emotion. He had done what was expected of him, nothing more. While an outstanding evaluation was a respectable achievement, it wasn't nearly enough to impress someone who had lived for more than three million years, like him.

"Tie Bai Xing, step forward."

Without a word, Tie Bai Xing walked forward with firm, confident strides. His stature and presence made it clear—he had the bearing of a dragon among men. With steady eyes, he approached the spring.

The moment his feet touched the water, the light intensified, wrapping around him with force. The murmurs began immediately. They had expected him to pass, but how far would he go?

"One… two… three…" Tie Bai Xing counted silently, his gaze fixed ahead.

One of the observing elders watched the results unfold and commented deliberately, "This young man truly seems like a top-tier talent."

The elder overseeing the ceremony observed closely and acknowledged, "Elder Lu Zheng is quite perceptive. And he's right—the light of hope is strong in this one, without a doubt."

They nodded in agreement, falling once more into silence.

Upon reaching the twenty-eighth step, the spring's glow dimmed slightly. Even so, Tie Bai Xing pressed onward. The spectators held their breath, waiting to see how far he would go.

"Thirty-two steps..." an elder whispered, his face lit with a mix of interest and admiration. "This young one has great potential."

When he reached the thirty-fifth step, the murmurs ceased entirely. Tie Bai Xing had attained Grade B aptitude. His progress was steady and unwavering, and he finally stopped at the forty-third step.

"Forty-three steps! At last, a Grade A!" Tie Zhen Lin announced, nodding with subtle approval.

"A good result. This one has a future," remarked an elder watching from a distance.

"Tie Bai Xing, Primordial Sea at 86%."

Tie Bai Xing returned to the edge of the spring with a calm expression. Although he didn't have the powerful background that many other participants held, the fact that he possessed a Grade A aptitude had already drawn the interest of many—something that, to him, was quite favorable.

The murmurs once again filled the cavern. Many of the young ones present reflected silently on their own results. Most had barely reached Grade C, and a few hadn't even qualified for Grade D.

In this world, out of every ten people, only five possessed the basic potential to become Gu Masters. But outstanding talent depended on luck—and destiny itself.

The majority had Grade C or lower. Some accepted their fate with quiet resignation, while others couldn't help but feel the sting of frustration.

From a distance, Tie Zhen Lin and the other elders watched each newly initiated youth on this Gu Journey with sharp eyes. In a clan system, internal divisions were inevitable. Naturally, each faction was already evaluating which seeds were worth cultivating, whom to recruit, and how best to strengthen their influence within the clan.

Among the elders was an old woman with long black hair and pale blue eyes, her skin smooth as jade. She possessed a genuine high stage Rank 3 cultivation. Her gaze settled on her granddaughter, Tie Yan Mei, and a faint smile touched her lips.

"This new generation is certainly full of surprises," she thought. "It would be a shame for my dear granddaughter to be overshadowed. I must speak with Elder Zhen Lin to ensure she isn't grouped with the rest. After all, teachers tend to focus on the most promising students, leaving others behind... I don't want my granddaughter to suffer the same way I once did."

As the evaluation continued and the crowd's reactions shifted with each result, it was Tie Dao Ku's turn. With a confident air, the tall youth approached the spring. His steps were steady, his posture upright.

The crowd began whispering, many confident that this young man would go far.

"This one has real potential," said one of the elders with approval.

"If his aptitude is good enough, he might become a respected Gu Master like his older brother."

Hope Gu within the spring reacted immediately to his presence, and Tie Dao Ku began to move forward with ease. Each step carried him farther than the last; the spring's glow shone brighter, reflecting his strength and determination.

"Twenty steps," murmured Tie Zhen Lin, closely observing the young man's unhesitating advance.

"Twenty-eight..." whispered another elder, eyes glinting with anticipation. "He could be one of the strongest prospects."

At last, Tie Dao Ku came to a stop at the thirty-fourth step—an impressive result. The crowd erupted in hushed murmurs and silent applause.

"Grade B. Aperture Sea at 68%," Tie Zhen Lin proclaimed with a nod of approval. "A solid result, Tie Dao Ku. Well done!"

Tie Dao Ku allowed himself a small smile as he returned to the edge of the spring, his face glowing with satisfaction. It wasn't quite a Grade A, but in the Aperture Awakening Ceremony, a Grade B was a clear sign of great promise for the future.

By the end of the ceremony, the sun had already dipped behind the mountains, and darkness spread like a heavy cloak over the Tie Clan. The elders remained at the center of the sanctuary a while longer, reviewing the bamboo scrolls that recorded each youth's results. They spoke about the future prospects of the new sprouts, each within the interests of their respective factions.

Finally, in silence, each of them dispersed—leaving behind an empty space, a silent witness to the birth of rising talent.

....

There was a strange calm in the night, broken only by the gentle sound of wind sweeping through the streets. The Aperture Awakening Ceremony had been a complete success. The Tie Clan was a superpower in the Southern Border; events like this held little importance for them. But for many mortals, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—like soaring from the earth into the heavens, without burning beneath the sun's glare or falling like a broken kite, of course.

"The ceremony ended with three youths obtaining top-grade aptitude. Without a doubt, a great harvest," said one of the two men seated at the table, sipping his tea. Sitting across from him was his son, Tie Kie Jan. Tie Peng Ziu looked relaxed and completely at ease upon hearing the news.

"In a few months, the Jia Clan's caravan will arrive. The competition for the Jia Clan's leadership is heating up," Tie Peng Ziu conversed casually with his son as they exchanged thoughts mentally through the system. "And I believe Jia Fu is taking the lead. He'll soon arrive at Mount Wan Cheng along with his younger brother, Jia Gui. Do you remember how it all ends?" the elder asked.

Tie Kie Jan's expression was calm, his eyes closed. On the outside, it seemed as though the two shared a peaceful silence, barely exchanging any words. Only the sound of their quiet breathing and gentle sips of tea could be heard. He exhaled, then finally transmitted mentally:

"Don't rush. Acting during a power struggle under the watchful eyes of Gu Immortals is courting death. It's unnecessary. The Jia Clan's leader will die. Both brothers will fight over the inheritance later, triggering a conflict between the Righteous and Demonic Paths, which will end in ruin. Both brothers will die in the process… or at least, that's if the passage of time doesn't change the outcome," Tie Kie Jan transmitted in secret.

In Fang Yuan's first life, Jia Jin Sheng's death never occurred. Fang Yuan joined the Jia Clan's caravan after being expelled from the Gu Yue Clan. But that wasn't a punishment—it was a thread of fate, manipulated by Heaven's Will, that granted him an extra opportunity.

By using the legendary Gu, Spring and Autumn Cicada, only the user returns to the past, sending their will upstream along the River of Time to be reborn. THE ENTIRE WORLD RETURNS TO THE PAST, EXCEPT FOR THE USER, WHO RETAINS THEIR MEMORIES.

And who was the next user of this Gu? Humanity's blessing, the kindest being under heaven and earth—Gu Yue Fang Yuan.

Although Tie Kie Jan possessed a system that granted him the ability of "Mutual Opportunities," he wasn't certain whether this rare ability would function properly… This doubt stemmed from his uncertainty about the regression effect of such an Immortal Gu—especially because he would first need to meet Fang Yuan in person in order to activate the ability and embed it into his long-term plans.

What if, in Fang Yuan's first life, they never met? That would render all of Tie Kie Jan's efforts in this body meaningless—losing strength and the chance to seize future opportunities.

What if he died in the future? He might get another chance to reincarnate—hopefully into the body of a Rank 5 Gu Master, or maybe by sheer luck. He would gather effort, grow steadily, only to later discover that he was still far behind everyone else.

Wasn't that the case with Tie Ruo Nan? She was nearly the same age as Fang Yuan, and by the time he became a Venerable, she hadn't even reached the level of a Gu Immortal.

Tie Kie Jan didn't have much time. He needed to grow in strength quickly and execute his plans in this era—at the very least, to witness the marvels of a Grand Era filled with multiple Venerables.

"Buenas noches, padre. Descanse bien. Iré a mi habitación a meditar sobre sus enseñanzas. Este hijo filial se despide." anunció Tie Kie Jan, ahuecando los puños en respetuosa despedida.

Tie Peng Ziu simplemente sonrió, asintió en señal de reconocimiento y respondió: "Mi pequeño ya es un hombre adulto. Sigue por este camino".

Esas palabras eran mera formalidad, dichas en voz alta. Un mensaje translúcido apareció ante ambos:

[El usuario está siendo observado por un Inmortal]

Mantuvieron una actitud serena por fuera, aunque en su interior ya sonaban alarmas silenciosas.

Un sirviente abrió la puerta del salón principal y dijo: "Joven maestro Kie Jan, el baño con agua caliente ha sido preparado y un nuevo conjunto de ropa le espera en la cama".

Tie Kie Jan permaneció en silencio, con expresión tranquila, y simplemente se alejó, llegando finalmente a su habitación.

—Estoy bien por ahora, Mo Er. Ve a descansar. Estaré ocupado y no quiero que me molesten.

Por fin, Tie Kie Jan estaba solo. El silencio en la habitación se sentía extrañamente pesado.

Abrió el chat del sistema y apareció un mensaje de Peng Ziu: "Creo que los Ancianos Supremos están investigando porque atraje demasiada atención y el sistema ha activado una misión".

Peng Ziu adjuntó una imagen que decía: [El Anfitrión ha llamado la atención de los Inmortales] [Debido a la falta de un linaje poderoso y a evitar involucrarse en la lucha de poder de los Jóvenes Patriarcas, has sido marcado como una potencial Semilla Inmortal]

¡Timbre!

[Nueva misión principal desbloqueada: Conviértete en un inmortal con éxito.]

[Recompensas: Ubicación de una Gruta Celestial dejada por el anfitrión en una vida anterior. Fallo: Muerte.]

Tie Kie Jan miró fijamente los mensajes, incapaz de contener la sorpresa. Sus sentidos se agudizaron y comenzaron a surgir perturbaciones emocionales en su interior. Corrió a su cama y adoptó una postura meditativa.

Después de varios minutos —que parecieron horas— transmitió mentalmente:

Hay tres posibles razones para esto. Lo más probable es que no estén dispuestos a sacrificar a sus descendientes directos de sangre en las tierras benditas... o incluso al mismísimo líder del clan. Esta es una oportunidad de oro. O bien un Inmortal ha muerto, o bien han descubierto un nuevo nodo de recursos y necesitan mano de obra prescindible. Al fin y al cabo, este mundo es peligroso.

Tie Peng Ziu recibió el mensaje después de un tiempo. Su logro en el camino de la sabiduría fue superficial. Incluso como fragmento de alma, sus mayores logros fueron simplemente el de Pseudo Gran Maestro en el camino del metal y el alma. Sus demás logros fueron de nivel maestro únicamente gracias al talento innato y la experiencia inculcada en su alma.

Muy bien. Volveré a estar activo. Dejaré muchas cosas para tu futuro.

Tie Kie Jan leyó el mensaje, lo archivó mentalmente y ahora que la alerta se había desvanecido, cerró los ojos una vez más, esta vez para inspeccionar su apertura.

Tenía una inmensa familiaridad y experiencia en el cultivo.

La abertura existía en un espacio fantasma, tanto físico como metafísico. Recibió muchos nombres en todo el mundo, pero popularmente se la conocía como la Apertura del Mar Primitivo. Era un espacio esférico ubicado dentro del cuerpo de un Maestro Gu, alrededor del área abdominal, entre los riñones. Debido a su naturaleza etérea, no ocupaba espacio físico como un órgano normal.

La apertura era infinitamente grande, pero infinitamente pequeña, y solo se despertaba a través de la interacción del cuerpo humano con el Hope Gu .

Tie Kie Jan observó con calma su apertura, llena al 79 % con un líquido de color verde jade : su esencia primordial de etapa inicial de rango 1. Este porcentaje reflejaba los límites de su aptitud de grado B, ocupando tres cuartas partes del espacio esférico.

Tras revisarlo a fondo, se sintió seguro y abrió el panel del sistema. Su mirada se posó en esferas doradas que flotaban pacíficamente en una ventana de inventario azul: Hope Gu.

Como pequeñas motas de luz, este Gu Legendario del Camino Humano tenía un gran valor para Tie Kie Jan. Estos raros Gu solo aparecían dentro de manantiales espirituales, o tal vez eran atraídos a esos lugares por algún instinto oculto.

Tie Kie Jan había recopilado los que sólo él podía ver y los había guardado para un único propósito.

El sistema le permitió llenar artificialmente su apertura con estos Gu. Extendió una mano hacia una de las esferas y la seleccionó con cuidado. Al instante, la esfera se desintegró en una corriente de luz dorada que fluyó directamente hacia su mar primordial.

Tie Kie Jan cerró los ojos, concentrándose completamente en el proceso.

Dentro de su apertura, la corriente dorada tocó la porción vacía de su esencia primordial, interactuando con las paredes de la membrana de luz. Aunque la barrera permaneció intacta, la luz dorada comenzó a filtrarse lentamente, llenando gradualmente el espacio restante con esencia Verde Jade ; aunque, a diferencia del resto, esta oscilaba entre lo real y lo irreal.

Ésta era también su esencia, aunque existía sólo gracias al sistema, que garantizaba que cualquier inspección mostrara un llenado del 79% .

"Cada gota, cada porcentaje de esencia primordial importa. Esta es la base de un Maestro Gu", pensó Tie Kie Jan, sintiendo el cambio en su apertura.

El flujo de energía continuó durante varios minutos, hasta que la reserva de Hope Gu se agotó.

Tie Kie Jan abrió los ojos y el brillo del sistema se desvaneció silenciosamente en su mente.

El mundo real volvió a su vista: la ventana estaba abierta, dejando que la luz de la luna se filtrara en su habitación. Las sábanas eran azules, y su piel mostraba un ligero rastro de palidez.

Mientras Tie Kie Jan meditaba sobre su próximo paso, otros jóvenes del clan se reunieron en pequeños grupos para compartir sus planes e impresiones. Sin embargo, los días pasaron rápido, y pronto todos se encontrarían en las aulas de la Academia Tie, afrontando un nuevo capítulo en sus vidas como Maestros Gu.

Había transcurrido una semana desde la Ceremonia del Despertar. El aula de la Academia Tie estaba repleta de jóvenes estudiantes, todos escuchando atentamente a su maestro, el anciano Tie Zhen Lin, quien explicaba con calma los fundamentos de los Maestros Gu.

"Los humanos son el espíritu de todos los seres vivos. Los Gu son la esencia del cielo y la tierra. Hay miles de especies, innumerables Gu, viviendo a nuestro alrededor: en la tierra, en los arbustos e incluso en los cuerpos de las bestias salvajes", comenzó el anciano.

Con el tiempo, los eruditos han desentrañado los misterios del Gu. Quienes abren sus aberturas y utilizan su esencia primitiva para nutrirlo, refinarlo y manipularlo son conocidos como Maestros Gu —continuó el anciano con una voz llena de sabiduría—.

Hace siete días, todos ustedes participaron en la Ceremonia del Despertar. Y con el despertar de su Apertura del Mar Primordial, ahora son Maestros Gu de Rango 1.

Los estudiantes escucharon atentamente, captando plenamente la magnitud de las palabras del anciano. El anciano Tie Zhen Lin era una figura respetada dentro del clan, conocido por su profundo conocimiento de las artes Gu y su amplia experiencia como instructor. Sin embargo, mientras todos prestaban atención a sus palabras, un joven se levantó de su asiento con una postura llena de respeto.

"Maestro, siempre he oído hablar de Maestros Gu de diferentes rangos. ¿Podría explicarme los rangos y niveles de poder con más detalle?", preguntó el joven.

El anciano asintió y, con una mirada severa, respondió: «Los Maestros Gu tienen nueve rangos, del 1 al 9. Cada uno de estos rangos se considera un reino mayor, que a su vez se divide en cuatro etapas: etapa inicial, etapa intermedia, etapa superior y etapa cumbre. Estos subniveles están claramente definidos para los Maestros Gu del 1 al 5. En cuanto al cultivo del Gu Inmortal, no tengo información».

"Y ahora mismo, todos vosotros estáis en la etapa inicial del Rango 1."

"Si entrenan con dedicación, su base de cultivo progresará naturalmente. Algunos de ustedes pueden alcanzar el rango 2, y si tienen suerte y talento, incluso el rango 3", explicó el anciano.

Para aquellos con talento de Grado D, el mar primigenio ocupa de 2 a 3 capas de la apertura. El avance máximo que pueden alcanzar es el Rango 2.

Para quienes tienen talento de Grado C, el mar primigenio ocupa de cuatro a cinco capas. Si bien algunos pueden alcanzar el Rango 3, es raro.

Los talentos de Grado B poseen de 6 a 7 capas de mar primigenio y pueden alcanzar potencialmente el Rango 4. Mientras tanto, los talentos de Grado A, con de 8 a 9 capas, son los más dotados, capaces de alcanzar el Rango 5.

En cuanto a los Maestros Gu de rango 6 y superior, rara vez aparecen en público y la mayoría los considera leyendas. En nuestro Clan Tie, que yo sepa, hemos tenido figuras como Tie Mu Bai, nuestro actual líder, y el Investigador Divino Tie Xue Leng, el orgullo de nuestro clan.

"Ambos alcanzaron el rango 5, pero no estás aquí para escuchar sobre figuras públicas como ellos. Debes concentrarte en tu propio camino", concluyó Tie Zhen Lin con tono firme.

Los jóvenes escuchaban atentamente, y algunos no pudieron evitar mirar a Tie Bai Xing, quien, con su talento de Grado A, destacaba entre ellos. Sin embargo, otros posaron la mirada en Tie Kie Jan, quien, a pesar de ser solo de Grado B, ya parecía un futuro prometedor para el clan.

Recuerden, cada uno posee un potencial único. El camino hacia un Maestro Gu no es fácil, pero con esfuerzo, determinación y la guía adecuada, todos pueden ascender de rango.

"Ahora, tu primera tarea será comenzar a refinar tu Gu vital", anunció el anciano, cambiando el tono de su discurso.

Se dirigirán a la cámara Gu de la academia, donde elegirán el Gu que marcará el inicio de su camino como Maestros Gu. Este será el primer desafío que deberán superar en su cultivación.

Los estudiantes, llenos de anticipación, comenzaron a moverse mientras el anciano les daba una última palabra de aliento.

"Aquellos que logren refinar su Gu primero recibirán una recompensa de 40 piedras primigenias".

El grupo, con expresiones nerviosas y determinadas, comenzó a caminar hacia la entrada de la cámara Gu.

Mientras caminaban por el sendero que conectaba la academia con la cámara, el sol comenzó a ponerse, tiñendo el cielo de tonos naranjas y rojos. El ambiente estaba cargado de una mezcla de emoción y ansiedad.

La cámara en sí no era imponente, pero su presencia era inconfundible. Con unos 100 metros cuadrados, irradiaba una energía silenciosa pero poderosa que llamaba a todos los que se acercaban.

La charla de los estudiantes se fue silenciando a medida que se acercaban a la puerta, como si el lugar en sí mismo exigiera respeto; el aire zumbaba con la promesa de transformación.

Tie Kie Jan caminó entre el grupo de jóvenes, observando en silencio la escena que lo rodeaba.

Aunque no se reflejaba ninguna emoción en su rostro, sintió que su corazón se aceleraba ligeramente al acercarse. A lo lejos, los otros jóvenes empezaron a susurrar entre ellos.

"¿Ya sabes qué Gu vas a elegir?" preguntó Tie Yan Mei, mirándolo con una leve sonrisa y un tono lleno de curiosidad.

¿Te animarías a comprar uno de esos Gu raros? Algunos parecen bastante interesantes.

"Estoy seguro. Ahora solo queda esperar y ver si me dejan entrar."

Tie Heng Jiu, caminando detrás de ellos, no pudo evitar dejar escapar una sonrisa burlona.

"¿En serio? He oído que ya se han llevado a los mejores Gu de este lugar, y los que quedan podrían no ser tan buenos. Puede que no sea tan fácil como parece."

El ambiente era electrizante, lleno de murmullos entre los estudiantes. Finalmente, todos llegaron a la entrada de la cámara, donde varios guardias, de diferentes ramas del clan, los vigilaban.

Al ver a los estudiantes acercarse, los guardias les hicieron un gesto para que comenzaran a entrar uno por uno.

Antes de entrar, Tie Kie Jan observó la puerta. No estaba recargada ni rodeada de adornos. Era evidente que se había puesto poco esfuerzo en el diseño de la estructura.

Dentro de la cámara, los Gu se guardaban en diversos recipientes. Algunos reposaban sobre platos de jade, otros dentro de jaulas de mimbre y algunos incluso dentro de estufas de barro.

Cada uno poseía vida propia, como la esencia misma del mundo, pero como aún no se habían refinado, seguían siendo Gu salvajes, con voluntad propia. Una voluntad que debía ser dominada para convertirse en el primer Gu de cada joven.

La habitación estaba rodeada de una serie de cubículos. Tie Kie Jan notó, en una vitrina a la derecha, un Gu que le llamó la atención: un tubo largo y grisáceo parecido al bambú, con una punta afilada en un extremo. Era el Gu Lanza de Bambú de Nivel 1, un Gu del Camino de la Madera, conocido por su capacidad de lanzar estacas afiladas cuando el Maestro Gu lo infundía con suficiente esencia primigenia. Además, tenía una gran durabilidad, por lo que también funcionaba como arma.

Era un Gu que aún no había sido refinado por ningún Maestro Gu, lo que significaba que aún poseía libre albedrío. Si decidía convertirlo en su Gu vital, tendría que someterlo, algo difícil de lograr.

«Esta podría ser la elección correcta. La mayoría probablemente elegirá Gu de los caminos del Metal, la Tierra o la Fuerza... pero este es mi primer Gu. Necesito algo ofensivo, y también algo con lo que pueda luchar en caso de que mi esencia primigenia se agote», pensó Tie Kie Jan, recordando las palabras que el anciano había pronunciado ese mismo día.

Se escuchó un susurro desde cerca: uno de los jóvenes que también observaba la vitrina comentó en voz baja:

¿Seguro que puedes usarlo? Es un Gu poderoso, pero requiere buen control. Mi hermano me dijo que no es muy bueno a larga distancia.

Tie Kie Jan no respondió de inmediato. Su mirada permaneció fija en el Gu, analizando sus características y posibles escenarios futuros. Suspiró... «Es una pena que no haya un Gu mejor, pero no existe el Gu más poderoso, solo un Maestro Gu más poderoso», pensó.

—Estoy seguro —respondió finalmente en voz baja, sin volverse a mirar al joven.

Con un movimiento tranquilo, levantó el Gu de Lanza de Bambú. Al tocarlo, una fugaz sensación recorrió su mano: la textura del Gu era áspera y fría, como el metal.

Los demás jóvenes también se dispersaron, cada uno seleccionando el Gu que consideraba más adecuado.

Algunos personajes secundarios, como Tie Bai Xing, eligieron Gu de alta capacidad, mientras que otros parecían indecisos, o quizás simplemente inseguros de sus decisiones. Al fin y al cabo, un Maestro Gu rara vez posee un sistema completo de Gu para cubrir sus debilidades. Por eso muchos eligieron Gu de tipo ofensivo, creyendo que si atacan primero, su oponente no se levantará, especialmente ahora, cuando todos solo tienen un Gu para un solo aspecto.

En ese momento, los jóvenes comenzaron a abandonar la cámara uno a uno, con sus decisiones tomadas y su futuro ya definido. Aunque todos sabían que el proceso de convertir al Gu elegido en su Gu Vital sería arduo, no había vuelta atrás.

El refinamiento era una tarea que podía llevar días, meses o incluso años, dependiendo de muchos factores: la habilidad del Maestro Gu, la voluntad del Gu elegido y el nivel del Gu.

(AN: Cuanto más alto sea el nivel del Gu a refinar, mayor será su resistencia. Por supuesto, el Gu Lanza de Bambú solo es de nivel 1, así que no debería ser demasiado difícil... ¿verdad?)

Tie Kie Jan, con el Gu de Lanza de Bambú en la mano, caminó hacia la salida sin prisa, pero con determinación. Al cruzar la puerta hacia el mundo exterior, recordó las palabras del anciano Tie Zhen Lin:

Refinar un Gu no es fácil, y es aún más difícil cuando los desafíos parecen insuperables. Pero ese es el precio que se paga por el poder.

El sol ya se había puesto cuando los jóvenes emprendieron el regreso a casa. Tras una última mirada a la cámara Gu, Tie Kie Jan salió con pasos firmes y decididos. El fresco aire del atardecer le rozó el rostro, y las calles bullían de vida mientras las luces de colores del arcoíris iluminaban los alrededores.

Las calles del Clan Tie estaban bañadas por un espectáculo de luces multicolores: rojas, azules, azul cielo, moradas, verdes, naranjas y amarillas.

Cada color representaba los cielos inmemoriales que, según las Leyendas de Ren Zu, fueron destruidos por Ren Zu y sus hijos en su lucha contra las injusticias del Destino. Estas luces no solo adornaban las calles, sino que servían como recordatorio del legado cultural de la humanidad y la audacia que nos impulsa a desafiar lo imposible, por muy idealista que sea el objetivo. ¡Todo por el bien de la humanidad!

(NA: Propaganda de los mayores racistas del mundo Gu.)

Entre las calles, se podían ver Maestros Gu de rango 1, escuadrones que regresaban de misiones, jóvenes y llenos de energía, junto a mortales con ojos cansados ​​y algún que otro Maestro Gu extranjero.

En otra superpotencia, estos individuos serían tratados con sospecha y vigilados de cerca, pero el Clan Tie era la fuerza número uno contra el camino demoníaco, y también uno de los mejores detectives.

Naturalmente, siempre que uno pudiera pagar la entrada y presentar sus informes de misión, era bienvenido.

Al avanzar, apareció ante sus ojos un edificio prominente. Su imponente estructura, adornada con intrincados detalles, hablaba de la riqueza y el prestigio de la familia propietaria. Era una de las muchas propiedades de Tie Peng Ziu, el hombre al que debía llamar "Padre", un vínculo que nadie se atrevía a cuestionar.

Al llegar a la entrada principal, el mayordomo jefe, Qing Shu, lo recibió con una leve reverencia y una sonrisa cortés. Qing Shu, un hombre mayor y siempre impecable, sabía exactamente cómo comportarse en presencia de los miembros del Clan Tie.

"Joven maestro Tie Kie Jan, qué alegría verlo de vuelta. Espero que haya tenido un día exitoso. Sígame, por favor. He preparado una variedad de deliciosos platillos para esta noche".

Tie Kie Jan apenas lo miró. Aunque Qing Shu desempeñaba un papel importante en la casa, para él, era solo una pieza más del engranaje que ahora era su hogar.

Su voz, tranquila pero con un inconfundible tono de autoridad, atravesó la cortesía del mayordomo.

"Qing Shu, ¿dónde está Li Han?"

Un breve destello de incomodidad cruzó el rostro de Qing Shu antes de responder, eligiendo cuidadosamente sus palabras.

—Li Han está en el pabellón oeste, joven maestro, cerca del patio. Está limpiando allí con Mo Er y su tío.

Una pausa, luego un comentario teñido de algo que podría ser envidia.

Debo decir que es sorprendente que el Maestro Tie Peng Ziu los haya acogido y les haya dado trabajo. ¡Qué afortunados son!

Tie Kie Jan no respondió. Pasó junto a Qing Shu con paso firme, ignorando tanto el comentario como la expresión del mayordomo. Su objetivo era claro, y las distracciones eran irrelevantes.

Finalmente, dio una orden de despedida mientras subía las escaleras: "Estaré ocupado con una tarea. Trae la comida a mi habitación inmediatamente. Iré primero al salón principal".

. . . . .

Al entrar al salón principal, Tie Kie Jan encontró a Tie Peng Ziu sentado en una silla de madera oscura, con una taza de té caliente en la mano. Una luz suave y cálida emanaba de las lámparas de araña, proyectando un brillo solemne sobre la decoración, modesta pero refinada, de la habitación.

"¿Cómo te fue?", preguntó Tie Peng Ziu sin levantar la vista, con un tono relajado pero con un dejo de genuino interés.

"Elegí el Gu Lanza de Bambú", respondió Tie Kie Jan mientras se sentaba frente a él. "Un Gu Sendero de Madera. Bastante versátil, aunque su potencial de mejora es relativamente limitado".

Tie Peng Ziu levantó una ceja y dejó a un lado su taza de té de caracol verde de primavera antes de hablar.

"Planeas refinarlo hoy, ¿no?" preguntó, esperando una respuesta clara.

"Por supuesto", respondió Tie Kie Jan sin dudarlo. "Sin embargo, necesitaré algunas piedras primigenias para completar el proceso".

Tie Peng Ziu asintió levemente y su mirada evaluativa se posó en su "hijo".

Eres afortunado. Incluso con las divisiones internas del clan, nuestras reservas siguen siendo abundantes. Toma lo que necesites. No seas imprudente, pero tampoco tacaño.

Tie Kie Jan asintió levemente en señal de reconocimiento. Aunque mostró poca emoción, las palabras de Tie Peng Ziu le resultaron un alivio. El acceso a los recursos era crucial en esta etapa de su cultivo.

"¿Cómo está la situación en el clan?", preguntó Tie Kie Jan con calma, no porque quisiera involucrarse, sino porque necesitaba comprender el entorno en el que se encontraba.

Tie Peng Ziu se reclinó en su silla y su expresión se tornó pensativa.

El líder del clan Tie Mu Bai está a punto de dimitir. Los años tras las murallas han agotado sus fuerzas, y ahora busca a alguien que tome el relevo.

"¿Y quiénes son los principales candidatos?"

El más destacado es Tie Meng Hin, hermano menor de Tie Xue Leng. Es un Maestro Gu de rango 4, en su etapa cumbre, pero aún vive a la sombra de su hermano. Algunos ancianos lo consideran una apuesta segura; otros, alguien que difícilmente superará las expectativas.

Tie Peng Ziu hizo una pausa y apoyó una mano en su barbilla.

Aparte de él, hay varios líderes de clan jóvenes con una fuerza comparable. Todos son de rango 4. Ninguno supera a Tie Meng Hin en cultivo, pero todos cuentan con el apoyo del Consejo de Ancianos.

"No parece una decisión fácil", comentó Tie Kie Jan con indiferencia, sin mostrar ninguna preocupación real.

—No lo es. Pero eso no nos afecta directamente. —Tie Peng Ziu sonrió levemente, con un dejo de sarcasmo en su tono.

"Deja que los inmortales y los ancianos jueguen sus juegos. Nosotros tenemos nuestras propias prioridades".

"Cultivo", afirmó Tie Kie Jan con calma.

"Exactamente." Tie Peng Ziu asintió con satisfacción.

No importa quién se convierta en el próximo líder del clan. Mientras fortalezcas tus cimientos y te mantengas enfocado en tu camino, todo eso será solo ruido de fondo.

Tie Kie Jan se levantó, sintiendo que la conversación había terminado. «Gracias por las piedras primigenias. Comenzaré el refinamiento».

—Continúa. —Tie Peng Ziu volvió a su té y se relajó una vez más en su silla.

More Chapters