"Chapter 3: Remembering the Forgotten Talent"

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where time ebbed and reality twisted like threads of silk, powerful beings beyond mortal comprehension thrived. Known as the Celestial Sovereigns, these entities were forged from the very essence of the universe, their forms ever-shifting and intertwined with the cosmic fabric.

Each Sovereign radiated a unique aura, resonating with the energies of creation and destruction, embodying the universe's mysteries.

In a resplendent celestial palace, carved from pure starlight and floating amid swirling galaxies, the Lord and his servant engaged in conversation. The air crackled with ancient power, and the faint whispers of the cosmos enveloped them.

"My Lord," the servant said, her voice a blend of reverence and curiosity, "are we truly granting a trial to a mortal worlds? To offer them a chance at something as profound as immortality, when we ourselves transcend even that?"

The Lord, an embodiment of celestial majesty, contemplated the stars swirling in the vast void. His features shifted subtly, reflecting the ethereal colors of the universe. "Hmmm," he mused. "Though I had no intention of intervening, the Heavenly Dao decrees that every million years, mortals may rise anew. This is not merely a gift; it is a crucible. Through their struggles, we may uncover talents that rival even the most ancient among us."

The servant furrowed her brow, a mix of admiration and caution in her expression. "But what if they are unworthy? What if they squander this opportunity?"

A sly smile curved the Lord's lips, his eyes sparkling like distant quasars. "Ah, but that is the essence of the trial. Greatness often emerges from adversity. Each mortal harbors the potential for immense power—within their spirit lies the spark of creation. We may witness the rise of beings who could one day challenge the very fabric of reality."

As they spoke, the void shimmered, revealing fleeting images of the mortal realm—chaos and beauty intertwined, aspirations burning brightly. The servant felt a surge of anticipation; a world on the brink of awakening awaited their attention. "Shall we guide them?" she asked, excitement evident in her voice.

The Lord's gaze deepened, contemplating the myriad possibilities. "We shall observe. In the shadows of their trials, we may find echoes of our own origins—the essence of life, struggle, and the pursuit of boundless power."

Meanwhile, on Green Shadow Mountain, Ye Min had spent half a month planting vegetables, reveling in her newfound peace.

"Ah, home is truly the best! Hahaha! Though it isn't my village, it's the safest place compared to the outside, filled with rough monsters and corrupt cultivators. Here, I don’t have to worry about my life being in danger," he laughed, continuing her work.

After completing her daily chores, Ye Min ventured into a nearby forest.

"Step... step..."

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Minutes later, he arrived and settled on a flat stone, ready to relax.

"Ahhh, this is what life should be like, not like my past," he mused, memories of her previous life unexpectedly surfacing.

he recalled the burdens of a draining job, her parents' nagging, and the heartache of losing her wife to someone more attractive. Yet, with those memories came clarity and gratitude. he felt fortunate to have a chance at a new beginning, embracing the happiness found in her rebirth.

After half an hour of reflection, Ye Min remembered something important.

"Oh right! Why didn’t I realize this until now, that I have the heaven-defying talent I’ve possessed since my time on Earth? I’ve never mentioned it to anyone, not even my family," Ye Min mused, deeply reflecting on her significant mistake over the past 17 years.

"Haaahh, is it because it's so peaceful here? Ahh, shit, I just don’t understand," Ye Min cursed at herself.

he retrieved a basic cultivation manual from her pouch.

"Hm, let’s see… the name: Qi Gathering Technique. It was pricey, but worth it because I want to grow stronger. I refuse to be used as a stepping stone for the chosen ones."

After preparing herself, he took a deep breath and retrieved an ink brush, hands steady with purpose. he activated her modifying skill, the same one that had once made her wealthy on Earth.

As he dipped the brush into the ink, energy shimmered around her in the serene forest.

"Swoosh!" The brush glided across the page, ink flowing like water, each stroke filled with intention.

"Scratch, scratch!" The sounds resonated among the trees, intensifying her focus.

"Whir!" The ink swirled and danced, transforming the blank pages into a tapestry of her vision.

"Click!" The brush tapped the inkstone, signaling the completion of her work.

"Ha! Finally done. Did it work?" Ye Min asked, exhaustion evident as he examined the content.

Name: Qi Gathering Version 2, Absorption Speed: 100%.

"Puff, hahaha, what a silly name!" he laughed, tears streaming from her eyes.

.............

After calming her laughter, Ye Min decided to try the modified technique. he took a deep breath, centered her mind, and began absorbing the surrounding Qi.

"Whirr… Hummm… Swoosh!"

The Qi flowed into her like a swift river, invigorating every movement. he visualized vibrant colors—greens, blues, reds—each symbolizing strength and vitality. With each breath, he felt her spirit grow stronger.

As the Qi intensified, he sensed a breakthrough approaching. Instinctively, he directed the energy toward her dantian, feeling it build effortlessly. The energy pulsed through her meridians, flowing smoothly as if guided by an unseen force.

In that moment, Ye Min felt a shift, but he was so engrossed in the sensation of power that he didn’t fully register it. The transition to the second level was seamless; her body adapted to the new flow of Qi without hesitation.

Suddenly, a surge erupted within her. “Breakthrough!” he thought, but it felt almost natural, like stepping onto a familiar path. he pushed further, her strength expanding, enveloping her in a warm glow.

.. hhh... gasp..

Panting but exhilarated, Ye Min opened her eyes, now acutely aware of her heightened senses and newfound power.

"Whoa, what the heck is this?" he exclaimed, excitement bubbling over.

"Did I have a breakthrough?" he muttered in disbelief.

"Hahaha! I'm sure I had a breakthrough! I think I just jumped straight to the second level!" Lin Min said, her smile widening.

"Kekeke, I didn’t expect my talent would still work in this world," he remarked, oblivious to the way her calm demeanor was giving way to sheer joy.

Moments later, night fell, prompting Ye Min to pack her things and head home.

"Step... step..."

As he walked, he caught herself smiling and quickly composed her expression. "Ahh, why am I smiling? I need to remain calm and composed. I can’t let anyone take advantage of me."

Minutes passed.

"Big brother, why are you so late? It's already night, and dinner is ready!" Ye Lin exclaimed, visibly upset.

"Hm," Ye Min considered for a moment, then replied, "Sorry, Lin'er. I didn’t mean to be late. I was so tired from planting that I fell asleep."

"Haha, big brother is really good at making excuses," Ye Lin sighed.

"Enough, both of you. Dinner is getting cold," their father, Ye Jun, interjected.

"Yes, Father," they replied in unison.

After a minute of eating, Ye Jun spoke again.

"Tomorrow, your brother Ye Tian is visiting, so be prepared to pick him up at the entrance."

"Wow, really? Brother Tian is coming! Yay! I really miss brother Ye Tian!" Ye Lin exclaimed, glancing at Ye Min.

"Yes, Father," Ye Min said calmly.

"Tch, big brother is so cold. You and Father are too similar."

Ye Min remained silent, though her mind buzzed with excitement. he knew that Tian Min was one of the main characters, returning home after being humiliated and dumped by his girlfriend for a handsome third-rate villain. He would need comfort to grow stronger and seek revenge on those who had crossed him.

---A:

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