Quantum Immortal

After the intense sect selection process, the arena was finally emptying, with excitement and anticipation filling the air. The chosen candidates, now disciples of various sects, were given a unique opportunity before they immersed themselves fully into their cultivation paths. Most sects permitted a few days of respite, allowing their newly admitted disciples to explore the city, spend time with their loved ones, or simply enjoy their remaining days of freedom. Once they entered the sect, it would be years before they might see the outside world again, as they’d be immersed in rigorous cultivation, training, and studies.

Bai Xuanfeng, Wuji’s new master, had also announced to him and the other new recruits of the Thousand Path Pavilion that they had exactly one week to gather any final items they might need, say their farewells, and mentally prepare themselves for the journey ahead. He’d emphasized the importance of punctuality, instructing them to meet at the city entrance by the hour of the rabbit[1]. With a stern expression, he warned, "Be late, and you’re on your own. The Thousand Path Pavilion doesn’t wait for stragglers."

Wuji noted the sharp tone, understanding that Bai Xuanfeng’s warning was more than just words; punctuality and discipline were fundamental in the cultivation world. "Thank you for this time, Master," he said, bowing deeply. "I won’t be late."

Bai Xuanfeng gave him a nod, his gaze softer than usual, as he said, “Very well, Wuji.” Then, reaching into his robes, Bai Xuanfeng pulled out a leather pouch and extended it towards Wuji. “Take this.”

Wuji took the pouch, his brows raised in surprise. He felt the weight and cautiously peeked inside. His eyes widened as he glimpsed a glittering hoard of gold coins. There had to be around a hundred gold coins in there—a small fortune for most. He could scarcely believe it. In his past life, he’d never seen this much money in one place, even with the occasional big payment for his side jobs. Even during his two years traveling through Silverbrook City, the most he’d ever saved up was about 140 silver coins which amounted to 1 gold coin and 40 silver coins. This much gold felt overwhelming.

"Master," Wuji began, a hint of hesitation in his voice, "isn’t this… too much?"

“Too much?” Bai Xuanfeng chuckled. “Consider it a gift from your master.”

Wuji nodded, deeply touched by the gesture. Then he noticed something else in the pouch: several small white crystals, each barely the size of his fingernail. He fished one out, examining it curiously before looking back at Bai Xuanfeng. “And these, Master?”

“Ah,” Bai Xuanfeng’s eyes twinkled, “those are broken spirit stones. A rare commodity, even more valuable than the gold coins you’re holding. Ten broken spirit stones equal one whole spirit stone, which can be used to speed up your cultivation by providing pure Qi. But don’t expect to find much use for them here in Silverbrook City. These are primarily for your training once we’re back at the Pavilion.”

Wuji marveled at the broken spirit stones, understanding their significance immediately. “Thank you, Master. I’ll use them wisely.”

With that, Wuji bowed once more, expressing his gratitude, before tucking the pouch securely into his robe. As he turned to exit the arena, he noticed that many of the newly accepted disciples had already begun gathering into groups. Excited conversations buzzed around him as they spoke about their ambitions, future sect lives, and the challenges they’d face. Their shared triumph in making it through the selection exams had created a camaraderie among them, and everyone seemed to be in high spirits.

As Wuji walked, a few disciples from the Thousand Path Pavilion, who had witnessed his performance in the exams, approached him. One, a tall and lanky young man with a friendly smile, introduced himself as Liu Chen. “Wuji! We’re headed back to Silverbrook City together. Care to join us?” Liu Chen extended a hand with an inviting smile.

Wuji, who had mostly traveled alone or kept to himself, smiled and accepted, appreciating the chance to get to know his new peers. “It’d be my pleasure,” he replied.

They soon boarded a caravan headed towards the city. Along the way, conversations flowed naturally. Liu Chen shared his dreams of becoming a powerful cultivator within the Thousand Path Pavilion, while others excitedly discussed their cultivation plans and personal goals. Wuji listened attentively, sharing some of his own aspirations in turn. Despite having reincarnated with memories of his previous life, he enjoyed the genuine exchanges with his new sectmates.

A particular candidate named Han Bao quickly caught his attention. Han Bao, a young man from the Han family—a distinguished noble family known for their business acumen—seemed to effortlessly draw people’s interest. “You know, Wuji,” Han Bao said with a grin, “the Han family may not be as prestigious as the Four Great Duke Families, but we’re no small fry either. Our restaurants are some of the best in the city. Ever heard of the Jade Cloud Pavilion?”

Wuji’s eyes lit up. He’d heard of the Jade Cloud Pavilion. Known for its exquisite cuisine, it was second only to the renowned Golden Lotus Pavilion. “I have,” Wuji replied, impressed. “I didn’t realize the Jade Cloud Pavilion was part of your family’s legacy.”

Han Bao laughed, his eyes gleaming with pride. “It’s my family’s pride and joy. You should come by sometime. I’d be more than happy to treat you.”

Wuji considered the offer, grateful for the friendly gesture, though he had other priorities in mind. “Thank you, Brother Han. I’d love to, but maybe another time. There’s… something I need to attend to first.”

Han Bao’s expression turned understanding, though he pretended to pout. “Alright, alright. But next time, no excuses! The Jade Cloud Pavilion waits for no one.”

“Next time, I promise,” Wuji replied with a smile.

Deep down, however, Wuji’s mind was already turning towards the plan he had briefly mentioned to his close friends, Jinhai and Zhen before the sect exams began. Meeting them was a priority, and there were certain details he needed to refine and pieces of information to gather. That was the real reason he couldn’t accept Han Bao’s invitation today.

After about an hour of travel, the caravan rolled into Silverbrook City. As they entered the bustling streets, Han Bao, ever the gracious host, tried one last time to convince Wuji. “You sure you don’t want to come, Brother Wuji? There’s nothing like the Jade Cloud Pavilion after a long day like this.”

Wuji shook his head with a grateful smile. “Thank you, Brother Han, but I’m genuinely exhausted. Another time, I swear.”

Han Bao gave him a friendly pat on the shoulder. “Alright, alright. But remember, you owe me a visit now!” With a wink, he added, “You’re practically family already, so don’t keep me waiting too long.”

The two parted ways, with Wuji watching as Han Bao and a few others headed toward the Jade Cloud Pavilion. Once alone, he took a deep breath, mentally preparing for the task ahead. He had a meeting to prepare for—a strategic one with Jinhai and Zhen. They were friends he trusted and who understood the goals he had in mind. Wuji wanted to not only grow within his sect but also establish a stable foothold in the Golden Lotus Dynasty, ensuring resources and allies outside the Thousand Path Pavilion.

He made his way through the lively streets, his thoughts already on tomorrow’s meeting. The last time he, Jinhai, and Zhen had spoken, he’d hinted at an idea but hadn’t elaborated. Tomorrow, he would lay out his entire plan before them. But for now, he needed to fine-tune it, thinking through every angle and anticipating any challenges they might face.

Once he returned to his temporary lodging, Wuji sat by the window, allowing the sounds of the city to wash over him as he focused on refining his plan. His mind sifted through memories from both his lives, recalling his engineering background and practical skills, as well as the knowledge he’d gathered in this cultivation world. What he was planning would require ingenuity, resources, and trust in his companions.

The plan was ambitious, to say the least. Cultivating and gaining power within the sect was one thing, but creating a support network outside was another. For that, he needed Jinhai’s connections within the city and Zhen’s knack for acquiring resources. Together, they could create something lasting—something that would not only help Wuji in his journey but also strengthen all three of them in their own aspirations.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Wuji donned a black robe that blended seamlessly with the shadows. He placed a plain, hand-carved wooden mask over his face—its only distinguishing feature was a pair of narrow eye holes that offered him an unobstructed view of his surroundings. The mask fit snugly, secured with a thin black thread tied firmly behind his head. To complete his disguise, he lowered a wide-brimmed rice hat over his head, casting his face further into shadow. Tonight was his first step into the shadows of the city, and he knew exactly where to begin: the Jade Eye, an intelligence network run by the Qin family, one of the four great duke families. If there was any place to uncover secrets, it was there.

------

Hour of rabbit[1] - 5 AM to 7 AM