Morning came with a ceremonial weight that Tae-Won hadn't expected. He stood in the center of a private courtyard, surrounded by twelve stone pillars carved with ancient cultivation symbols. Before him, Elder Jin wore formal robes of deep crimson embroidered with golden threads that caught the early sunlight.
"The disciple acceptance ceremony is traditionally held in the main hall before all clan members," Elder Jin explained, his voice carrying a solemn gravity. "But given your unique circumstances and the... political considerations, this private ceremony will suffice."
Tae-Won nodded, understanding the subtext. His sudden elevation would cause enough ripples without a public display. Behind Elder Jin stood three witnesses: Madam Liu from the library, a stern-faced man introduced as Instructor Kang, and Liu Feng, who beamed with poorly concealed excitement.
Madam Liu stepped forward, her usually severe expression softened slightly by the formality of the occasion. "Young Tae-Won, it is important you understand what is happening today. With every noble family or sect, there are certain rules and ceremonies that must be observed. The acceptance of a first disciple—someone taken directly under the guidance of a prominent figure within the clan—is especially significant."
Her eyes, sharp despite her age, fixed on him. "Such positions are rarely given, particularly to outsiders. Elder Jin has not taken a personal disciple in over forty years. The responsibilities and expectations will be... substantial."
Tae-Won bowed respectfully. "I understand, Madam Liu. I will endeavor to be worthy of the honor."
The ceremony itself was brief but meaningful. Tae-Won knelt, accepting a cup of wine infused with trace amounts of purified Qi—a ceremonial blend prepared with essence from the clan's sacred cultivation grounds. After drinking, he formally recited the traditional pledge of discipleship, feeling the words resonate with unexpected depth—an echo of similar oaths he had taken in his previous life.
"From this day forward, I accept you as my master. I will honor your teachings, respect your wisdom, and bring no shame to your name. May my progress honor your guidance, and my actions reflect the principles you impart."
Elder Jin placed a hand on Tae-Won's head, channeling a thread of Qi that connected briefly with Tae-Won's meridians—a ceremonial blessing and symbolic bond between master and disciple.
"Rise, Tae-Won, first disciple of Jin Seong-Ho," the Elder declared, using his personal name for the first time in Tae-Won's presence. "May your path reach the heavens."
As Tae-Won stood, Elder Jin presented him with three items: a dark blue robe with silver and gold accents, marking him as a personal disciple rather than a clan member; a jade token bearing Elder Jin's personal seal; and a small wooden box containing three pills that gleamed with an inner light.
"Body Refinement Elixirs," Elder Jin explained as Tae-Won examined the pills with carefully controlled excitement. "Take one every three days. They will stabilize your meridians during rapid advancement and reduce the risk of cultivation deviation."
With the ceremony complete, the witnesses departed, leaving master and disciple alone in the courtyard. The formal atmosphere dissolved as Elder Jin's expression shifted to one of practical assessment.
"Now," he said, stroking his beard, "let us see what you're truly capable of."
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The training ground was a spacious arena with packed earth floor and high walls to contain Qi fluctuations. Elder Jin stood at its center, hands clasped behind his back, watching as Tae-Won performed basic movements.
"Your posture is unusual," the Elder observed. "You appear to have created your own foundation techniques rather than following established patterns."
Tae-Won nodded, seeing no reason to hide this fact. "I had no formal instruction before meeting you, Master. I adapted what worked for my body."
Elder Jin circled him slowly, observing from different angles. "Interesting. Most self-taught cultivators develop serious flaws in their foundation that limit their future advancement." His eyes narrowed. "Yet your energy circulation is remarkably efficient. Show me your palm technique."
Tae-Won demonstrated a simple palm strike, channeling Qi through his meridians to enhance the force. The technique was basic but functional, creating a visible ripple of azure energy that extended slightly beyond his physical reach.
"Hmm, crude but functional," Elder Jin commented. His expression revealed neither approval nor disappointment. "Now, attack me."
Tae-Won hesitated. "Master?"
"You heard me. Come at me with your full strength. Do not hold back."
Considering his options, Tae-Won knew that at Body Refinement Stage 2, he posed no threat to a Nascent Soul cultivator. Yet Elder Jin's instruction was clear, and there was purpose behind it. The Elder wasn't testing Tae-Won's power—he was assessing his combat instincts and techniques.
Tae-Won took a centering breath and launched forward with a burst of speed, enhancing his movement through Qi circulation. He feinted with a right-hand strike before pivoting to deliver a palm strike with his left, channeling maximum Qi into the attack.
Elder Jin didn't move. The attack struck an invisible barrier inches from the Elder's chest, the energy dissipating harmlessly.
"Again," Elder Jin commanded. "Use everything you have."
For the next ten minutes, Tae-Won attacked relentlessly, incorporating every technique he had developed or could remember from his previous life. Each assault was effortlessly neutralized, yet Elder Jin's expression grew increasingly intrigued as the session progressed.
"Enough," he finally said, raising a hand. Despite his exertions, Tae-Won wasn't even breathing hard, his expanded meridians efficiently cycling energy to maintain his stamina.
Elder Jin stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Your foundation techniques are unorthodox but surprisingly effective. More importantly, you fight with the awareness of someone who has faced true battles." His eyes bore into Tae-Won's. "You instinctively target vital points and transition between attacks with minimal telegraphing."
The Elder's gaze sharpened. "I know you didn't have any previous teachers, as you claimed, and your techniques are clearly self-developed. But your fighting style is quite unique. You are a genius, no doubt, but..." He paused deliberately. "Why is it that you target meridians or weak points so naturally? Your Meridian Disruptor technique is regarded as an advanced application that even Inner Disciples struggle to learn, yet it seems to come naturally to you."
Elder Jin's voice lowered, becoming more intense. "Tell me, Tae-Won, what comes to your mind when fighting an opponent?"
Tae-Won considered his response carefully. This was a crucial moment—too much honesty would reveal his reincarnated nature, but too little would fail to satisfy Elder Jin's curiosity.
"Master, I—" Tae-Won began, then paused. "Answer the question well," he reminded himself, drawing on both Tae-Won's street survival instincts and Emperor Reinhardt's battlefield wisdom.
"When I face an opponent," he finally said, "I see them not as a whole, but as a collection of vulnerabilities. Every living being has points where energy flows can be disrupted, where balance is precarious, where strength becomes weakness. In the slums, I couldn't afford to fight fair—I had to end confrontations quickly to survive."
He met Elder Jin's gaze steadily. "I observed that when I struck certain points, opponents would collapse or lose function in limbs. Through experimentation, I learned to feel the flow of energy in others and disrupt it. I didn't know they were called meridians until I read about them in the clan library."
Elder Jin's eyes narrowed, studying Tae-Won with renewed intensity. "Street fights in the slums," he repeated, echoing Tae-Won's earlier explanation. "Against those stronger than me, I learned to aim where it hurts most."
Elder Jin nodded slowly, though his eyes suggested he suspected there was more to the story. "Most young cultivators, even talented ones, waste energy on flashy movements that look impressive but accomplish little." He gestured at Tae-Won. "You, however, fight like someone who has killed before."
The statement hung in the air between them. Tae-Won neither confirmed nor denied it, meeting his master's gaze steadily.
After a moment, Elder Jin seemed to accept this unspoken understanding. "Very well. Your combat instincts are sound, if unusually developed. Now we must provide you with techniques worthy of your potential." He reached into his sleeve and withdrew a thin bamboo scroll. "This is the Azure Dragon Meridian Refinement Method. It is particularly suited to your Azure Phoenix Constitution and will accelerate your advancement through the Body Refinement stage."
Tae-Won accepted the scroll with a respectful bow. "Thank you, Master."
"Study it thoroughly before attempting the technique," Elder Jin cautioned. "While your talent is remarkable, cultivation missteps at this stage can create flaws that persist through higher realms." He paused, considering. "Tonight, I will observe your first attempt to ensure you grasp the fundamentals correctly."
Tae-Won nodded, then raised a question he'd been considering since morning. "Master, regarding the children in the slums—"
Elder Jin raised a hand, interrupting him. "I have already dispatched Liu Feng with resources and a team to assess their situation. They will be moved to a property the Jin Clan owns near the northern district border. It is modest but secure, with clean water and proper sleeping quarters."
Tae-Won bowed deeply, genuinely moved by this swift action. "I am grateful for your generosity, Master."
Elder Jin waved away the gratitude. "A contented disciple cultivates more efficiently. Besides," his eyes took on a distant look, "no child should live as you have been forced to."
That glimpse of compassion was quickly replaced by practical instruction as Elder Jin outlined Tae-Won's training schedule for the coming days. "You will study the Azure Dragon method in the morning, practice physical refinement techniques at midday, and in the evening, we will work on Qi control exercises."
He fixed Tae-Won with a stern gaze. "And one week from today, Jin Taekyung will arrive. He has formally requested a friendly match to welcome you to the clan. As my disciple, you will represent not just yourself but me."
"Jin Taekyung?" Tae-Won asked, controlling his expression.
Elder Jin's mouth tightened slightly. "My grandson. Currently at Core Formation Stage II, and quite proud of his accomplishments."
Tae-Won's mind raced. Core Formation was an entire realm above Body Refinement. The gap between them would be immense—like a trained warrior facing a child.
"I understand, Master." Tae-Won maintained a calm exterior despite the gravity of the situation.
Elder Jin nodded. "Good. Now, let us discuss the foundation of the Azure Dragon method..."
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By late afternoon, Tae-Won's head was filled with cultivation theory beyond anything he'd accessed in the library. Elder Jin's personal instruction encompassed not just techniques but the underlying principles that governed energy manipulation—knowledge typically reserved for Inner Disciples or higher.
When they finished the day's instruction, Elder Jin dismissed him with a final comment. "Tonight, after dinner, you may visit the children with Liu Feng. He will show you their new accommodations."
Tae-Won bowed in acknowledgment, then retired to his quarters to study the Azure Dragon manual before the evening meal. The scroll contained detailed diagrams of meridian pathways specific to his constitution, with instructions for channeling Qi to strengthen and expand these pathways systematically.
[The Azure Dragon Meridian Refinement Method appears well-suited to your unique physiology,] the System analyzed when he consulted it.
[Compatibility rating: 92%. Implementing this technique will accelerate Body Refinement progress by approximately 43% compared to basic methods.]
That confirmation increased Tae-Won's confidence as he memorized the key circulation patterns. If the technique was as effective as the System predicted, it might be possible to make extraordinary progress before Jin Taekyung's arrival. Not enough to close the realm gap between them, but perhaps enough to avoid complete humiliation.
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After dinner, Liu Feng escorted Tae-Won toward the northern district border. The young disciple had been uncharacteristically quiet during their walk, his usual chatter subdued.
"Is something troubling you, Liu Feng?" Tae-Won finally asked as they passed through a quiet residential area.
Liu Feng's shoulders slumped slightly. "I... I was surprised by Elder Jin's decision to make you his personal disciple," he admitted. "Not that you don't deserve it!" he quickly added. "It's just... Elder Jin hasn't taken a disciple in decades. Many of us hoped..." He trailed off, looking embarrassed.
"That you might one day earn that honor," Tae-Won finished for him.
Liu Feng nodded miserably. "I've served the Jin Clan faithfully for years, but I know my talent is... modest at best."
Tae-Won considered the young man walking beside him—earnest, diligent, but likely limited in his cultivation potential. In his previous life, Edward Reinhardt would have dismissed such a person as irrelevant. But Tae-Won was building a different kind of power base in this world, one that required allies of various capabilities.
"Talent in cultivation isn't everything," Tae-Won said carefully. "In my observation, the Jin Clan—like any organization—needs loyal members with diverse skills. Your knowledge of clan operations and genuine concern for others are valuable assets."
Liu Feng looked up in surprise. "You... you think so?"
"I do," Tae-Won confirmed. "And as Elder Jin's disciple, I will need an assistant who understands clan protocols and can help me navigate situations my slum upbringing hasn't prepared me for."
The implication wasn't lost on Liu Feng, whose expression brightened considerably. "Are you suggesting...?"
"That you would be an ideal candidate for such a role? Yes." Tae-Won allowed a small smile. "Of course, I would need to speak with Elder Jin about formalizing such an arrangement."
Liu Feng's entire demeanor transformed, his earlier melancholy replaced by enthusiastic determination. "I would be honored! I know every corner of the compound, all the important clan members, the schedules for resource distribution—"
"Exactly the knowledge I lack," Tae-Won interrupted gently. "But first, let's focus on today's task. Tell me about the arrangements you've made for the children."
With renewed energy, Liu Feng described the property they were approaching—a former merchant's residence that had come into Jin Clan possession through a debt settlement. "It has six rooms, a small courtyard, and a functioning well. We've provided bedding, basic furniture, two weeks of preserved food supplies, and cooking equipment."
The house came into view as they turned onto a quieter street—a modest but solid structure surrounded by a low wall. As they approached the gate, a small figure darted into the shadows, then reappeared with a familiar face.
"Ho-Jin," Tae-Won greeted the street boy who had become his lieutenant. "How are the new quarters?"
Ho-Jin's expression was guarded as he glanced at Liu Feng. "Better than we expected," he admitted cautiously. "Though some didn't come."
"Didn't come?" Liu Feng frowned. "We invited all twenty-six children you listed."
"Some don't trust clan folk," Ho-Jin explained with a shrug. "They're staying in the old places."
Tae-Won nodded, unsurprised. "How many came?"
"Seventeen," Ho-Jin replied. "The younger ones mostly, and those who were sickest. Min-Ji and some of the older boys stayed behind to watch the territories."
"A wise precaution," Tae-Won said. "May we enter?"
Ho-Jin led them into the courtyard where several children were practicing the basic breathing exercises Tae-Won had taught them. They stopped immediately upon seeing Liu Feng's Jin Clan robes, tension rippling through the group.
"This is Liu Feng," Tae-Won introduced. "He arranged these quarters for you on Elder Jin's orders. He can be trusted—to the extent I've instructed you to trust anyone."
The qualification seemed to ease the children's wariness slightly. Min-Ji's absence was noticeable—she would have been valuable in helping the others adjust to their new circumstances.
"Show me the rest of the house," Tae-Won requested.
Ho-Jin led them through the modest dwelling, pointing out how they had organized sleeping arrangements by age and prior alliances among the street groups. The youngest children occupied the most secure interior room, while older children had positioned themselves strategically near exits and potential entry points.
"You've set up guard rotations," Tae-Won observed, noting the systematic arrangement.
Ho-Jin nodded. "Two awake at all times, rotating every four hours."
Liu Feng looked surprised. "That won't be necessary. This area is under Jin Clan protection—"
"Let them maintain their security," Tae-Won interrupted. "It provides continuity and builds responsibility." He turned to Ho-Jin. "Though you should adjust to three-hour rotations to prevent fatigue. Four hours is too long for sustained vigilance."
After inspecting the entire property, Tae-Won gathered the children in the main room. Liu Feng stood back, observing with fascination as the street children instinctively arranged themselves in a hierarchy that placed Ho-Jin at Tae-Won's right hand, with the others positioned according to some unspoken ranking system.
"Your circumstances have improved," Tae-Won began without preamble, "but our goals remain unchanged. Each of you will continue the cultivation exercises I've taught you. Those who show appropriate dedication will receive advanced instruction as you progress."
He glanced at Liu Feng before continuing. "While I am training with Elder Jin, I will visit twice weekly as permitted. In my absence, Ho-Jin speaks with my authority."
Turning to a thin girl with watchful eyes, he added, "Li-Na, your literacy makes you valuable. Liu Feng will provide basic cultivation texts for those capable of reading them. Study and summarize the key points for the others."
The girl nodded solemnly, accepting the responsibility.
"For those remaining in the slums," Tae-Won continued, "supplies will be delivered through Ho-Jin's network. They are not to be hoarded or traded without authorization."
Liu Feng stepped forward hesitantly. "I can arrange for a Jin Clan patrol to check on them regularly—"
"No," Tae-Won cut him off firmly. "Jin Clan presence would undermine their position in the slum hierarchy. They must appear to have risen through their own means, not clan charity."
Understanding dawned in Liu Feng's eyes. "Political considerations even among street children? I hadn't considered that."
"Survival in the slums is as much about perception as reality," Tae-Won explained. "Appearing as Jin Clan dependents would make them targets once patrols depart."
After addressing several practical matters, Tae-Won took Ho-Jin aside for a private conversation while Liu Feng demonstrated a simple cleansing technique to the fascinated younger children.
"What's the real situation with those who stayed behind?" Tae-Won asked quietly.
Ho-Jin's expression grew serious. "Min-Ji doesn't trust this arrangement. She thinks it's a trap to gather all of us in one place."
"A reasonable concern," Tae-Won acknowledged. "And the others?"
"Mostly her loyal followers. They've moved to the old tanner's buildings in the eastern slum. Better positioned for information gathering."
Tae-Won nodded thoughtfully. "Good. Have Min-Ji focus on gathering intelligence about the other noble families, particularly the Zhao and Han clans. Their rivalry with the Jin Clan could prove useful."
Ho-Jin raised an eyebrow. "Playing both sides?"
"Preparing for all possibilities," Tae-Won corrected. "My position with Elder Jin is advantageous for now, but wise cultivators never rely on a single patron."
After providing specific instructions for information gathering and training priorities, Tae-Won rejoined Liu Feng in the main room.
"They're remarkably disciplined for street children," Liu Feng observed as they prepared to depart.
"Survival demands discipline," Tae-Won replied simply.
As they walked back toward the Jin Clan compound, Liu Feng's expression grew thoughtful. "You're building something with them, aren't you? Not just providing shelter and food, but creating..." he searched for the right word, "...an organization."
Tae-Won gave him an appraising look. Perhaps Liu Feng was more perceptive than he had initially judged. "Everyone needs foundations to build upon," he said carefully. "Even disciples of powerful clans."
Liu Feng seemed to accept this oblique answer, and their conversation turned to the upcoming evening cultivation session with Elder Jin. But Tae-Won noted the young disciple's increased attentiveness—Liu Feng was beginning to see beyond the surface of Tae-Won's actions, which made him both more valuable and potentially more dangerous.
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Upon their return to the compound, Elder Jin was waiting in a secluded meditation chamber. Large smooth stones arranged in a circular pattern dominated the space, each bearing ancient glyphs that glowed faintly with stored Qi.
"This is the Resonance Chamber," Elder Jin explained as Tae-Won entered. "The formations inscribed on these stones will amplify and stabilize your Qi circulation, making it ideal for attempting the Azure Dragon method for the first time."
Tae-Won bowed and took his position in the center of the circle as instructed. Elder Jin seated himself on an elevated platform at the northern point, his presence a reassuring anchor for what would follow.
"You have studied the manual?" the Elder inquired.
"Yes, Master. I've memorized the primary circulation paths and transitional nodes."
Elder Jin nodded approvingly. "Begin with the foundation breathing pattern, then proceed to the meridian expansion sequence. I will observe and correct if necessary."
Tae-Won closed his eyes and initiated the breathing technique described in the manual. Unlike the basic methods he had previously used, the Azure Dragon pattern involved specific rhythmic variations tied to heart rate and natural Qi fluctuations. His chest expanded as he drew in ambient Qi along with air, holding for precisely four heartbeats before releasing in a controlled exhalation.
After establishing the rhythm, he began directing Qi through the specified meridian pathways. The first circuit followed his spine upward, branching at the base of his skull to flow down his arms. The second originated in his dantian, spreading outward in spiral patterns that resembled dragon scales across his torso.
[Qi circulation efficiency: 89%] the System reported.
[Recommend minor adjustment to sixth node transition—reduce flow rate by 7% to prevent energy cascade.]
Tae-Won made the subtle correction, feeling an immediate improvement in stability as he completed the second circuit. The third pathway was more complex, involving simultaneous circulation through multiple meridians that ordinarily functioned independently.
As he attempted this challenging configuration, he felt resistance—like trying to force water through a narrow pipe. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he maintained concentration, gradually overcoming the resistance through careful pressure modulation.
Suddenly, he felt Elder Jin's Qi touch his own—not interfering but offering a reference pattern, like a master calligrapher guiding a student's hand without actually holding the brush. Through this wordless demonstration, Tae-Won understood the proper flow dynamic and adjusted accordingly.
The resistance vanished as his meridians aligned correctly, Qi flowing smoothly through the complex network. A pleasant warmth spread throughout his body, followed by a cooling sensation as excess heat dissipated through specialized pathways.
After completing all seven prescribed circuits, Tae-Won followed the manual's instructions for gradually reducing flow until his Qi settled naturally in his dantian. Only then did he open his eyes, finding Elder Jin watching him with undisguised satisfaction.
"Remarkable," the Elder commented. "First attempts at the Azure Dragon method typically require multiple corrections and at least three sessions to achieve adequate circulation. You completed all seven circuits with only one minor adjustment."
"Your guidance was invaluable, Master," Tae-Won replied sincerely. The subtle assistance Elder Jin had provided had indeed made a significant difference.
Elder Jin stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Your Qi sensitivity is extremely high—comparable to cultivators who have reached Core Formation. It serves you well in learning new techniques." He rose from his seat, approaching Tae-Won with an evaluative gaze. "How do you feel?"
Tae-Won took a moment to assess his condition. "My meridians feel more... flexible. As though they've been stretched without strain."
"Precisely the intended effect. The Azure Dragon method doesn't force expansion through brute power like many techniques. Instead, it encourages natural growth through calculated pressure and release cycles." Elder Jin placed a hand on Tae-Won's shoulder, his touch conveying a trace of Qi that mapped Tae-Won's meridian system. "Continue this practice twice daily. Within three days, you should notice significant expansion of your primary channels."
As they concluded the evening's training, Elder Jin mentioned casually, "Jin Taekyung has moved up his arrival. He will be here in five days rather than seven."
Tae-Won controlled his expression, revealing neither concern nor surprise. "I look forward to meeting him, Master."
Elder Jin's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Do you? Most would be intimidated by the prospect of facing Taekyung so early in their training."
"Would anxiety improve my chances?" Tae-Won asked practically.
The Elder laughed, a genuine sound of delight. "No, I suppose it wouldn't. Very well—maintain that confidence. You'll need it." His expression grew more serious. "Taekyung has reached Core Formation Stage II. The gap between your cultivation levels is substantial—an entire realm of difference."
"Then I will learn from the experience," Tae-Won replied, neither accepting defeat nor promising victory.
Elder Jin studied him for a long moment before nodding. "A wise approach. Rest now. Tomorrow we begin combat applications of the Azure Dragon method."
As Tae-Won returned to his quarters, his mind was already calculating the accelerated timeline. Five days instead of seven meant he needed to progress even faster than planned. The duel with Jin Taekyung would be his first major test in this world—a benchmark to measure his progress and potential.
Despite the challenge ahead, Tae-Won felt something unexpected stirring within him—a sensation he hadn't experienced since his final days as Emperor Reinhardt. It took him a moment to recognize it: anticipation. Not merely strategic preparation, but genuine eagerness to test himself against a worthy opponent.
"System, status," he whispered as he prepared for sleep.
[Current Realm: Body Refinement Stage 2]
[Cultivation Progress: 30.9% toward Body Refinement Stage 3]
[Qi reserves: 92% of maximum capacity]
[Meridian expansion: 107% of baseline]
[Neural-meridian synchronization: 94%]
The Azure Dragon method had already accelerated his progress. But would it be enough to avoid complete humiliation against a Core Formation cultivator? As Tae-Won closed his eyes, his last thought was of the dual foundations he was building—one in cultivation through Elder Jin's teachings, and one in power through his network of street children and strategic alliances.