PotF Chapter 4: The Pioneer

Yang Ao comprehended Nyx's superficial explanation, yet the profound truths underlying her words and the concealed immortal Dao eluded him. Despite this, he refrained from further queries, aware that his system's stance was unchangeable.

Shortly after, Yang Ao posed another question, "Given that I'm unable to initiate my cultivation earlier than my peers, is there an alternative route to gain an advantage and get ahead of them before the time I reach five years old?"

Nyx advised Yang Ao: [Your eagerness for growth is evident. If you truly wish To gain an edge against others, consider honing your physical prowess and body. And while this won't turn you into an undefeatable master, the benefits might still be worthy of your efforts.]

Expressing gratitude, Yang Ao mused, "Perhaps this single and simple step beyond the norm will become the key to my ascension, setting me apart from the mob."

Returning to the library, Yang Ao sought manuals elevating his physical attributes. Inside, he encountered the librarian, Yang Li, and inquired about literature focusing on body strength and defense enhancement.

Yang Li responded, "Young master, as you're aware, cultivation is inaccessible for children until they reach the age of five years old. Thus, you can only use the mortal martial arts texts."

With eagerness, Yang Ao acknowledged, "Indeed, I understand the age constraint for cultivation. I'm here seeking knowledge on the mortal martial arts you just mentioned."

Yang Li pondered for a while, as initially, he contemplated dissuading Yang Ao from wasting his time. However, after he thought about it for a bit longer, he felt that it wouldn't be such a bad idea for Yang Ao to train his body. He concluded that maybe learning those mortal martial arts might offer some unforeseen benefits.

He reflected, "Very well, if the young master is that determined to train his body, then this old man shall not obstruct you." Gesturing, he added, "Follow me, I shall guide you to the mortal martial arts section."

As they navigated through the enormous labyrinth of bookshelves within the library, Yang Li and Yang Ao confronted a shabby and neglected bookshelf. The bookshelf's dilapidated state seemed to suggest that it could crumble at any given moment.

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Facing Yang Ao, Yang Li confessed with a touch of embarrassment, "These are all the mortal martial arts that we have. Since the Clan's members don't usually come to this corner of the library, the books might have collected a bit of dirt on them. Take your time, young master." He retreated to offer Yang Ao some privacy.

As he surveyed the shelf, Yang Ao's excitement peaked. He pondered, "Where should I begin from, and what book should I read first?"

After a prolonged search through numerous books, Yang Ao's initial enthusiasm gave way to disappointment. None of the martial arts manuals aligned with his preferences. Instead, he encountered a number of uninspiring options like 'The Supreme Chicken's Dance' and 'The Dizzy Duck Dash.'

"Who would willingly devote themselves to a martial art as stupid as 'The Supreme Chicken's Dance?" Yang Ao pondered, growing increasingly disheartened as he skimmed through the seemingly endless volumes of books.

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Amidst his perusal, his eyes spotted an old and tattered volume labeled with 'Rock Shattering Body.' That book was much more worn out than the others near it. Once he saw the martial arts book, Yang Ao thought of the stories where the protagonists discovered a hidden book that most people dismissed, and that same book was the reason behind the change in their fates. Yang Ao decided to take the book with him, eager to initiate practice.

Upon arriving at the librarian's desk, Yang Ao's chosen book piqued Yang Li's curiosity. Once he glimpsed at the title, Yang Li warned, "Young Master, didn't you notice the state of this book? Do you think that there was no reason behind it? No one was able to practice it. Among the mountains of trashy mortal martial arts, this one might actually be the most worthless."

Upon hearing this, Yang Ao was even more determined to obtain the book, refusing to hand it over even if his father, the Clan head, asked.

As he was unswayed, Yang Ao remained committed to his choice, replying, "Since you are saying that all of them are trash, why don't I try this one and see? it might have some hidden surprises for us."

Yang Li sighed, acknowledging the tenacity of youth. He thought that kids would always be kids no matter how bright or high their backgrounds were. Yang Li relented, "Given your resolve, I can only wish you success in your training. Should the 'Shattering Body' technique fall short of your expectations, return, and I shall offer you an alternative martial art that is better suited to your grand aspirations."

Grateful, Yang Ao departed, but before he left, he vowed to the library keeper "This young junior shall not disappoint you. I will not waste your efforts."

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Within the Clan's head residence, Yang Ao found that his parents enjoyed their Oolongs tea while chatting with heat. He felt that their bond deepened since his mother gave birth to him.

As they noticed him, both Chi Ray and Yang Ma inquired at the same time, "Were you in the Library once again?"

Since he didn't have anything to hide from the both of them, Yang Ao told them the truth without holding onto any information. "I wanted to strengthen my body, so I delved into the library to discover a martial arts manual that could enhance my training."

Yang Ma's satisfaction with his son's diligence was evident. Driven by curiosity, he inquired, "And which manual did you select?"

Yang Ao told him, "I opted for the 'Rock Shattering Body.'"

Yang Ma was quite amused by the name, but he didn't give it much thought because, after all, he wasn't the library keeper. Thus, he didn't know all of the books that they had in the library.

Turning her attention to her son, Chi Ray offered guidance, "Be careful, and if you ever need help, you shouldn't hesitate to come to me or your father."

Yang Ao reciprocated, pledging, "Thank you. I will work hard, and I will not let the two of you down."

Chi Ray assured, "Oh, child, you could never disappoint us. I only hope that you will be ok."

After saying that, Yang Ma gave her a side-eye. However, he chose to remain silent, not disturbing their shared sentiments.

Thanking them once again, Yang Ao retreated into the residence, excited to commence his rigorous training regime.