Dragging himself back to the guild room, Hunter followed Tower's advice to find a safer place to cultivate his next breakthrough. Time blurred around him, each moment soaked in sweat-drenched pain. The last thing he needed was bloodsucking leeches gorging on him while he was in such a vulnerable state.

Tower: I adjusted the elemental levels of Earth and Wind to better suit your needs. Now focus on your breath and start cycling.

Hunter peeled off his tunic and let it flop to the ground before he did. Every muscle burned as he pulled himself into an upright seated position.

Closing his eyes, he began cycling chi using the Earth Strider breathing technique, actively circulating chi through his energy channels. The chi entered his system as if he'd been doused under a waterfall made of pure energy. Even with his eyes closed, a message from Tower scrolled across his mind’s eye—a sign of their growing spiritual connection?

Tower: Hunter, whatever you do, keep cycling chi. You pushed your core hard, and your body is under immense strain from the unknown poison, but I trust you won’t panic.

Hunter’s breath caught, and his eyes snapped open. “Why... what do you mean... why would I panic?”

Tower: Breaking through to become a Third Star Refiner is where your body breaks free from its mortal confines, and that can be quite overwhelming for most cultivators. Your core will adapt as long as you continue to cultivate.

Hunter knew Tower well enough to know he was trying to put it nicely—that Hunter was in for a world of pain.

Shutting his eyes tighter than a miser's coin purse, he readied himself for the inevitable. He wasn't about to back down—after all, rising to the heavens wasn't a path lined with fluffy clouds and chorus lines of muses.

Sucking in a breath, he let go of everything except the rhythm of his heart.

With that came the sensation of his core stretching and bulging, struggling to accommodate the tidal wave of chi from his environment. Saying it was overwhelming would be like calling a Minotaur’s Labyrinth a simple maze. Yet, he powered through, allowing the chi to cascade through his energy channels with increasing speed.

The power within him hummed like a sweet chorus.

The expansion of his core soon reached its peak, then began its retreat. It was like trying to stuff a thunderbolt into a marble. As it shrank, his core grew denser, giving him the ability to harness greater amounts of chi than ever before.

The pain surged, almost stealing his breath away, but Hunter intensified his focus. He visualized his core as a swirling ball of chi inside his abdomen. Every cell in his body was on fire, and his core felt like it was being torn apart.

Hunter dug deeper. Pain was a gift.

Picturing his core as a seed splitting open and growing to make room for more chi helped him carry on through the torture. He groaned in relief as the pain began to recede, and a notification flashed in his vision.

He opened his eyes and smiled in sweet relief.

[Name: Leocedes “Hunter”

Age: 18

Clan: Filo

Class: Pending

Path: Holly and Horse

Element Type: Primary – Earth. Secondary – Wind.

Energy Type: Granted – Chi. Earned – Pending.

Chi Cultivation: Third Star Refiner.

Specialization: Undetermined

Titles Earned: Phantom Pilferer of Death Island. Handy-man.]

[Health: 100

Chi: 7.5/10

Stamina: 7.5/7.5

Physical: 32

Mental: 31

Weapons Mastery: 22

Armor Mastery: 3]

Tower: Well done. You pushed through the pain, and it is clear you are much stronger for it, both physically and mentally. Before you rush off to save the day, you need to give your body time to adjust to your newly enhanced senses.

Hunter knew exactly what Tower meant. Looking around, he was bombarded with a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, as if all his senses were on high alert. His sense of smell was particularly sharp. He regretted his last deep inhale.

“Ugh, I smell like rotten eggs.”

Tower: A more accurate description would be that you smell like the entrails of a long-dead Sweat Goblin.

Hunter laughed despite the pain. “You’re talking from experience, I take it?”

Tower: Yes, unfortunately. Ogres loved eating the rancid entrails of Sweat Goblins. They considered it a delicacy. The stench lasted for weeks.

Hunter took his time standing up, shaking off the image Tower's words conjured in his mind. He’d never heard of a Sweat Goblin before, and right now, he didn’t want to think about it.

He had enough monsters to deal with, and the worst kind were often human.

Looking down at the floor, he sighed with dismay. His tunic lay there covered in a dark, gooey, awful-smelling substance.

Tower: Would you like me to incinerate that for you?

Hunter nodded.

It disappeared in a smoky haze, leaving the foul smell of burnt hair behind.

“Tower, you mentioned adjusting elemental chi levels in here. I noticed the library is like a chi reservoir, making it a great place to cultivate. But I didn’t know you could control the type and amount in other locations.”

Tower: Before you arrived, it was not something I had done, nor was I allowed to by my previous creators. But since you were breaking through in such an awful state, I knew you needed all the help you could get. Now, at the mid-Foundation Phase, thanks to you, I can override the environmental controls to a certain degree without using too much of the energy stores Claude gave me. Now go take a bath. You're stinking up the place, and I haven’t reached a level where I can completely aerate this place—not to mention my vents are blocked by parasitic slime.

Hunter gave a mock scowl and thumbed his goo-covered chest. “Let me guess, unblocking them will be a future renovation task?”

Tower: You are very perceptive. A great skill to have, one I am sure you will make great use of as the First Initiate.

Hunter arched a brow.

Was Tower complimenting him to soften up his resistance?

Probably.

But Hunter had bigger fish to fry. Tower was right. He definitely needed a bath. He took a brisk walk to the bathhouse, using the opportunity to ask Tower questions along the way.

“Will I always stink this bad every time I break through, even if I improve my cycling techniques?”

Tower: I did my best to increase the levels of Earth and Wind chi in the guild room, but you still took in a large amount of chi that wasn’t suited to your affinity. Your body can only handle so much, and the rest has to go somewhere. That’s why it’s so important to use a cycling technique suited to your affinities so that you can gather as much useful chi during cultivation. The same applies when taking cultivation enhancers to break through; too much chi not suited to your affinity can block your energy channels.

Hunter nodded, well aware the cost of chi pills wasn’t the only reason why cultivators couldn’t just take a ton of pills to level up. Doing so could cripple their cultivation. Hunter’s parents always told him it was much better to build a solid cultivation base, like they did, to reduce the risk of bottlenecking at the Core Former stage.

“By adjusting the levels of Earth and Wind chi, weren’t you afraid that would affect my cultivation base?”

Tower: For other cultivators, that would be the case and is probably why so many failed to advance beyond the Refiner Gate. But your cultivation was stunted for so long, leaving your body clear of elemental chi, so there is less chance of the increased levels in here harming your energy channels. As long as you keep practicing your Earth Strider and Stallions River Run, you can advance more quickly to push the boundaries and develop faster. Now, if you wouldn’t mind walking faster, I’ve already prepared a warm bath and filled it with sweet posies to help get rid of the stench.

Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

Hunter laughed and took off into a light jog.

His senses adjusted as his muscles bunched and relaxed into an easy stride. It felt great, like he could take on the world. “I get the message loud and clear, Tower.” He entered the bathhouse, where the steaming tub sprinkled with pink flowers waited for him.

The air smelled divine…unlike him.

He stripped off his bottom layer and dove into the tub. The water wrapped around him like a warm hug, and he sank in deeper, wishing he could wallow in it for hours.

Tower: Your clothes were in a sorry state. Only your boots are fit to wear again.

A wooden crate appeared.

Resting both arms on the rim of the tub, Hunter leaned to the side, curious to know what was inside it. “Is that a reward for me?”

Tower: If you like clothes, then yes, I suppose you can see it that way. Spare tunic and a leather strip-kilt that were in my confiscation closet.

Hunter grinned. “Always great to have clean clothes. Thank you, Tower.”

Tower: You are welcome. Now that your skin is scrubbed clean and turned pink, don’t you have somewhere you need to be?

Even before the words finished scrolling across his vision, Hunter had hopped out of the tub, water dripping pools around him. His expression darkened as his thoughts turned to what he was about to face.

It sent a chill through him as he got dressed.

Tower: Be careful, the floor is slippery when wet. And don’t worry about cleaning up. I’ll use some of my energy to heat this room dry.

Hunter froze. “I’m so sorry, Tower. If you’ve got a mop—”

Tower: You do not need to worry about it this time. When my Earth core is fully functioning, I will have the energy to summon minions to help you keep this place in order. Until now, I have had to conserve my energy to summon Tower Monsters in the Refiner Gate for you.

Hunter bowed deeply. "Thank you, Tower… for everything!"

Tower: There's no need for thanks. You've helped me as much as I've helped you. Before you rush off, I recommend refilling your core using the high chi environment here to your advantage.

Hunter nodded, appreciating Tower's advice. He began cultivating on the move, using his Earth Strider chi gathering technique. As he did so, he multitasked with efficiency, sorting through the flurry of flashing notifications and checking his inventory.

A wave of hope surged within him.

The Divine reward he'd achieved for slaying the Tyrant Boss seemed like a beacon in the dark, a potential key to saving Jo.

Back in the guild room, Hunter took the rewards chest from his inventory and placed it on the ground. Brimming with anticipation, he opened it.

Inside, he found two items—a scent suppressing talisman and a beast taming talisman. Hunter rubbed his jaw deep in thought, his gaze shifting between the two. Both rewards were impressive, laden with potential, and extremely useful for any hunter or tracker venturing into the wild.

Tower: Do you need help choosing one?

Hunter shook his head. "While the beast taming talisman is undeniably useful, I already have an ability to tame small beasts as an innate skill. You said so yourself—my unique connection with beasts may have something to do with the corruption of my original cultivation medallion after my Earth affinity was awakened. I believe with time and practice, I'll be able to tame larger beasts, too." A wry grin danced on his lips. "Besides, we both know I don't exactly have the same finesse when it comes to controlling my scent."

Tower: That is true. I'm glad to see you're using your mental attributes well. It's a logical and well-thought-out decision. Please confirm your selection.

Without hesitation, Hunter focused on the scent suppressing talisman and selected 'yes.' He placed it in his inventory, feeling confident in his decision as the other reward faded away.

Continuing his cultivation, the familiar flow of energy restored Hunter’s depleted reserves as he refilled his core. The process left him feeling energized and hopeful. He glanced at the talisman in his inventory and uttered the command, "Identify."

[Rare Tier Alert: Aroma-shield Amulet—Because even the mightiest warrior doesn't want to smell like they've wrestled a Bog Beast in the heat of summer. This nifty trinket not only masks your natural musk from creatures that rely on scent for tracking but also adds a hint of 'mysterious wanderer' to your aura.]

Hunter's eyes widened in surprise and delight.

The talisman's capabilities exceeded his expectations and would prove to be an invaluable asset. His spirits soared even higher when he rechecked his inventory, scanning the newer contents.

Not only did he have his breakthrough coin, but also a substantial number of beast cores—a testament to his relentless grind in the Refiner Gate before he faced the Tyrant Boss.

It had been a grueling challenge, but the rewards were more than worth it. He now had a significant stash of monster cores to trade with Master Agathos.

Tower: All your hard work has paid off. I wish I could join you, but I have every confidence that you have what you need to defeat your enemies.

Hunter’s brows snapped together. "I hope you're right." At times, he felt like he’d made more enemies than friends.

Tower: Come on, Hunter, where's the confidence of the Horse?

A smile broke across Hunter's face, his resolve shining through. He raised his fist in a gesture of triumph and defiance. "Right here. I pity those who dare cross me or those I care about."

Buoyed up by Tower's confidence in him, Hunter left the tower and made his way towards Master Agathos' residence. Approaching the massive hedge grove, he pulled out the shimmering golden key given to him during his last visit, revealing a door that led him down the servants' path.

Reaching the forest green door, he knocked.

It didn't take long for Master Agathos to open it, greeting him with a warm smile. “Come in, come in. I trust you've been busy in the tower and come here with many monster cores.” Agathos’ fine robes rustled as he ushered Hunter into the scullery and up steps into the quiet, empty kitchen.

Hunter was about to unload the cores when Master Agathos raised his staff. “Let's walk and talk. I need the exercise.” He spoke in clipped tones, setting a brisker pace than before.

Soon, they were in the hall of treasures, a vast collection Master Agathos had curated over five hundred years. The gleam of hoplite armor caught Hunter's eye once more.

Agathos noticed his interest and gestured towards it. “You have a keen eye and good taste. And I'm impressed that you're now a Third Star Refiner. Such fast progression.” He tapped his nose. “I'd call you a genius if I didn't know better.”

Hunter, still captivated by the armor, smiled.

“You're welcome to take a closer look.” Agathos’ voice was laced with a hint of apprehension.

As Hunter marveled at the craftsmanship, he noticed an engraving running down the side. “I feel I've seen that somewhere before.” He turned to Master Agathos and gestured to the armor.

Agathos gave a grim nod. “I'd say the last time you saw that, you were just a boy.”

Sensing the old man's growing unease, Hunter didn’t immediately answer. He circled the armor, pretending to admire the breastplate. He tapped his chin. “I think you're right, although I can't place exactly where I saw it. How did you come across this?”

Master Agathos sighed. “All owners gave their consent for these items to be added to my collection. As an alchemist of great renown, I was often asked to trade my services for precious artifacts. Sometimes I refused, but the owner of this armor was most insistent.” His eyes became dark pools of regret and sorrow.

Leaning heavily on his staff, Agathos turned away, his shoulders sagging. “I think you already know who owned that armor.”

Hunter ran his finger along the inscribed words. “I recognize the house shield of the Gorgon Stheno, but it bears a different motto than my father’s.”

“The weak are the meat the strong eat.” Agathos grimaced, as if the words left a foul taste in his mouth.

“Eratos…” Hunter muttered.

Agathos gave a grim nod once more, removing the breastplate from its display. “You can have it. I never wanted it in the first place.”

Hunter opened his mouth to protest, but Agathos interrupted. “Please think about it before you refuse. It's poetic justice that an item meant for your uncle's protection falls into your hands. May his arrogance be his undoing.” His voice was filled with judgment.

Hunter sensed there was more to the story. “I trust your words. There's no need to look closer at it. I have a good stash of monster cores for trade.”

Agathos scoffed. “The armor is yours, free of charge. We'll keep our previous agreement regarding the monster cores.”

Hunter was stunned. “I will find a way to pay you back.”

“It is I who am in your debt.” His voice wavered as if he wanted to say more, then he shook his head. “When I was your age, filled with righteous ideals, I thought nothing would ever corrupt me… Never underestimate what you are capable of, or your uncle—he poisons everything he touches. One day we will talk on this matter again, but it will be me looking to you for mercy.”

Hunter frowned. “I don’t understand, please —”

Master Agathos cut him off with a wave of his hand. “Orcus isn’t blessed with the patience I have. If you would please give me the cores, I will get to work on refining them. You seem like a busy young man, so I will take care of ensuring his part of the deal is settled in full. The paperwork will be here should you wish to see it. My door is always open.” He gave him a hurried, expectant look as if to say, 'Don't let it bump you on the way out.'

As Hunter left the residence, his mind was abuzz with unanswered questions, his thoughts lingering even as he made his way past the hedge grove.

The way Master Agathos spat out the word 'poison' left Hunter feeling more than a little uneasy. That single word echoed in his mind as he trudged back to the city, on a quest for the elusive Black Temple. The sun hung low in the sky, a moody blood orange, casting a fiery apocalyptic glow on the city's boundary walls.

Down in the streets, the merchants were packing up, their day of hustling coming to an end.

Hunter's steps were heavy, each one a reminder of the weight on his shoulders. The thought of Mercos and Monty waiting for him was a small comfort. The information they were scraping together could be the thin line between his sister living or dying by Aspa’s hand.

Lost in thought, he nearly jumped out of his skin when a rough hand grabbed him from behind, spinning him around.

Standing there was a cloaked figure, with something oddly shaped, bulging from one side. Hunter's hand flew to his weapon, but he relaxed at a familiar, crass voice.

“It’s me, you big eejit.”

Lyra, hood down, flashed him a grin that was all trouble. “Good thing I'm not some death cultist, eh? Otherwise, you'd be shish kebab by now.”

Hunter couldn't help but scowl. “Hilarious.” He nodded towards the odd bulge under her cloak. “And what in the fires of Hades is that? Also, how the hell did you find me?”

She stood on her toes, giving his hair a playful ruffle. “Same way I did last time...” Lifting her cloak, she revealed Buckie the rooster, perched like a king on her hip. The bird seemed as content as a lord, especially when she tossed him a treat. “His appetite could shame a hungry dragon.” She cooed, while the bird just bock-bocked, enjoying the attention.

Hunter raised an eyebrow. “Fascinating, but you're dodging the question.”

“I'd love to tell you, but you look like you’re in a rush. So, where are you off to?” Her tone suggested she already knew.

“Cut the bull. You know where I'm headed, but do you know why?”

She pressed a finger to her lips, a mock-secretive gesture. “I won’t tell anyone your secrets if you don’t tell anyone mine. Let's skip the heart-to-heart for now, but just so you know, I've had my eyes on you since that fateful tavern meet-up. We'll have a proper chat about how I’m able to do so, when there's less of a time crunch.”

Hunter folded his arms. “What are you, some sort of psychic? Quite the trick for a First Star Founder.”

“Who said I was only a First Star Founder?” With a flourish of her cloak, she darted ahead, only to stop and throw him a sly wink. When he caught up, she leaned in close. “I have a sneaky suspicion we're heading the same way.”

“And where's that, Miss Mystic?”

Her smile faded, and she gazed into the distance, her face suddenly serious. “To the Black Temple, where else?”