The Falling Leaf Sect hummed with a renewed vigor. The Basic Sect Defenses were rapidly taking shape, their sturdy stone walls and watchtowers rising testament to the disciples' diligent efforts. Li Xuan, his Qi Condensation Realm (Stage 3 - 20% progress) cultivation steadily deepening, felt a profound sense of satisfaction. His core disciples, the pillars of his sect, were also making impressive strides, their Qi accumulating at an astonishing rate within the Enhanced Cultivation Chamber.
He observed them during their joint training sessions, where the Falling Leaf Blade Art flowed with lethal precision and the explosive Soaring Wind Fist sent ripples of compressed air across the training ground. A palpable competitive spirit existed among them, a friendly rivalry pushing each to surpass the other, spurred by the quantifiable growth they witnessed daily.
Kael, ever the diligent and robust warrior, stood at Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 92% progress), his form almost flawless, pushing hard for his next breakthrough.
Elara, sharp and intuitively gifted, was close behind at Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 88% progress), her movements fluid as water, constantly seeking to refine her technique.
Ren, the former bandit leader with a sharp mind and unyielding resolve, had reached Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 85% progress), surprising many with his rapid ascent, his focus unwavering.
Roric, methodical and resilient, was at Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 78% progress), his progress steady and undeniable, a testament to sheer perseverance.
Lyra, fueled by sheer willpower and a hidden well of tenacity, stood at Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 72% progress), her growth a quiet marvel, always striving for more.
The twins, Gareth and Finn, having astonished everyone with their explosive cultivation speed, were now solidly at Body Tempering Realm (Stage 5 - 68% progress for Gareth, 65% for Finn), their dedication making them invaluable assets and fierce competitors.
Qing'er, overseeing much of their daily training, was herself thriving, her Qi Condensation Realm (Stage 2 - 40% progress) cultivation becoming increasingly stable and potent. She served not just as a mentor but as a formidable example to all, her insights invaluable.
Li Xuan knew that while their progress was exceptional, sustained acceleration required continuous investment. He privately accessed his sect resources, reviewing the System Store. His gaze fell upon an item he had considered before, but now felt truly necessary: the Qi Gathering Elixir (Uncommon Grade).
It promised a significant, albeit temporary, boost to Qi absorption. The cost was substantial: 50 Sect Points per elixir. Given his current reserves of 800 Sect Points, he could afford a good quantity for himself and his seven core disciples, but it was a precious resource that demanded careful allocation.
He decided. "Purchase 8 Qi Gathering Elixirs," he commanded internally. The cost (400 Sect Points) swiftly deducted, leaving him with 400 Sect Points. Moments later, 8 small, glowing vials materialized in his spatial ring. His 350 Gold Coins remained untouched.
Later, he gathered his core disciples and Qing'er. "These," he announced, holding up one of the vials, "are Qi Gathering Elixirs. They are rare and potent. When consumed, they will dramatically increase your Qi absorption rate for a set period, greatly accelerating your cultivation. Use them wisely, for they are a limited and valuable resource, meant to push you towards your next breakthroughs."
A ripple of excitement went through the group. They knew the value of such an item, a direct boost to their cultivation that would shave months, perhaps even years, off their path to higher realms. The thought of further accelerating their growth, closing the gap to potential breakthroughs, ignited their competitive fire even more, each vowing to make the most of their elixir.
As the elixirs were distributed, Ren approached Li Xuan. "Sect Leader," he began, a scroll in his hand, "I've completed my research on master blacksmiths in the region. There are three individuals who stand out, each with unique specialties, but one in particular matches the criteria for handling Qi-infused forging, though he's known to be reclusive and demanding, shunning most contact."
Ren unrolled the scroll, pointing to a name: "Master Jian, the 'Stone Heart Forger.' He resides in a hidden valley west of Brightwood. Rumor has it he once forged artifacts for a fallen noble house, and his skill is unparalleled, though his temperament is equally legendary."
Li Xuan considered the information. A reclusive and demanding master, perfect. He would be difficult to persuade, but his skill would be invaluable for unlocking the true potential of the Weapon Forgery Manual. "Master Jian it is," Li Xuan decided. "Ren, prepare a diplomatic approach. We will extend an invitation to him, showcasing the sect's potential, the unique opportunity we can offer, and the grand vision we hold for the Falling Leaf Sect."
While Ren prepared for the delicate negotiations, Li Xuan directed the other disciples to begin preparations for the Basic Forge. Gareth and Finn, with their burgeoning strength and practical minds, eagerly took charge, organizing the collection of specialized ores and the preparation of the forge's foundation. The rhythmic clang of pickaxes against stone, and the murmur of construction, began to echo through the sect grounds, a new heartbeat for the burgeoning sect.
Li Xuan knew that arming his disciples with true Qi-attuned weapons was the next critical step to elevating their combat prowess. The tournament was a long-term goal, a grand stage he envisioned. With the elixirs accelerating their cultivation, and the promise of master-forged weapons, the Falling Leaf Sect was steadily building its undeniable strength, ready to make its mark on the Northern Plains.