John's mental state improved significantly once he discovered his magical ability. Eagerly anticipating his first upgrade, he looked forward to sleep and the possibilities it might bring. His conversation with Max revealed that he could not pursue other forms of magic, a restriction meant to maintain balance. Despite this, wielding his fly-rod made John feel as if he were cheating—though it was merely a tool to aid in his survival. Recognizing the importance of physical strength, John decided to embark on body cultivation after discussing it with the girls.

Shortly after devising his plans, John heard a knock at the door. His guess was correct; it was Anya and Alana, each with a black number 3 on their left hands. John glanced at his own silver 10 and addressed them openly. "I have gained a deeper understanding of how this world operates," he said. "Therefore, I will state plainly that I will not favor one over the other. You are both my friends, and you are welcome to stay here with me. We can train and support each other. Also, I met Seraphina on the 10th floor; she plans to meet with me tonight. I'm telling you this to be transparent—I suspect she wants me to join her party. Thus, our goal should be to reach the 30th floor first, so we can form a group. From the 10th to the 20th floor, you two should collaborate. I intend to tackle the first 20 floors alone. What do you think of this proposal?"

Alana mentioned it's been a week, and guess what we're known as now? We're called the John Birds. I don't mind, and I'm quite sure Anya doesn't either. Anya agreed, saying not at all. After all, you've treated us no differently, so I'm fine with this. However, I will request that if we stay here, we each have our own rooms. And to be clear, this doesn't mean we're starting a harem; our focus right now should be on getting stronger. Now that we've settled that, would you two like to choose your rooms and get settled in? Once that's done, I'll be off to cultivate. I'll be in the courtyard training, and you're more than welcome to join me. Also, there's no need to knock anymore—feel free to come in since you live here now.

John was in the courtyard, stretching, when he felt an unusual warmth, almost like a tingle, but it was inside his blood, spreading throughout his entire body. With every breath, this sensation coursed through his being. He recalled a book on cultivation he had read; it said that blood is the body's highway. The first step is to saturate the blood with spirit energy, then let it extend to the muscles, skin, bones, and organs. As the energy spread with each breath, John became immersed in the sensation. Unbeknownst to him, the city had dispatched guards to his home, as many people yearned to meet the man who had given music to the world. Meanwhile, the dungeon began to resonate with diverse melodies as people entered, feeling as if John was there with them, encouraging them to believe in themselves.

This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Will returned with the two girls and informed John about the crowd gathered outside his home. He also handed John some gold for any necessary purchases and brought him spirit pills. John accepted them but requested a beast core for the next time. Will, though curious, didn't inquire further and agreed to have someone deliver it later that night. Additionally, John mentioned that Seraphina was planning to visit for a talk and instructed Will to allow her entry. Will gave John a bewildered look, wondering who would dare to stop her.

John was deep in his training when he felt a formidable presence. He had an inkling of who it might be. A knock echoed at the courtyard's door. John chuckled, "Seems like death is at my door." Opening the door, he was greeted by a gentle voice, "Hello, John." His guess was correct; it was Seraphina. "May I come in?" she asked. "Of course, I wouldn't have invited you otherwise," he replied. She looked at him with familiar curiosity. John spoke first, "Let me guess, you want to team up for the higher levels, right?" She nodded. "But how did you know?" John answered, "It's not about needing someone strong; it's about needing someone you can trust. I have two friends—girls," she interjected. "Yes, but we're just friends. I've offered them to stay and train here. They'll pair up until level 30, then the three of us will form a team. I'm willing to help you, just don't betray me for any reason." "I won't betray you either. I have no need to," she assured. "Now, I have a question for you," John said.

Would you prefer to stay on the surface, or return to the 10th floor? I intend to wait until Alana and Ayra reach the 10th floor before settling there; afterwards, we can all gather. Do you have a way for me to contact you once I'm on the 10th floor? I'm uncertain of your address. Here, Seraphina hands John what appears to be his badge from the Royal Academy, except it's black. With this, I'll know when you enter the dungeon. Don't get too comfortable here, as you'll be staying with your two friends in the palace. It's mine, but I don't use it. Besides, you caused quite a stir today; the whole city is talking about you. People's hearts can be dark, so to ensure your safety, stay there—it's yours. The guards will ensure you're not disturbed.

John expressed his gratitude to Seraphina for the use of the palace and introduced Ayra and Alana to her. He shared the news of their stay at the palace, to which they consented. Seraphina then escorted them to the royal abode, informing Will that it now belonged to John. Will misunderstood, but John, too weary to correct him, was simply eager to rest and anticipate his first update.