Reincarnation of the Celestial Bastard

Chapter 4: First Step to Power

Li Tian sat cross-legged in the dim room, his breathing steady as he focused his mind on the task before him. The system's latest prompt lingered in his mind, the words still fresh.

[ New Task: Strengthen Your Body ]

[ Reward: Basic Body Cultivation Manual (Tier 1) ]

It was a clear path forward, something tangible that would lead him away from the pitiful state the previous owner of this body had lived in. Li Tian smiled inwardly. The system was proving to be quite useful, but it also served as a reminder that his desires now dictated the flow of his actions. He found the idea intriguing, though he was more focused on becoming stronger first.

Before diving into the task, Li Tian recalled his brief encounter with Li Xue earlier. Her concern had been genuine, and while he didn't want to appear weak in front of her, he wasn't blind to the fact that he needed to take action quickly. The Li family's patience with him wouldn't last long, and his brothers would likely strike again soon. But this time, he'd be ready.

He concentrated, silently calling out to the system.

[ You have accepted the task: Strengthen Your Body. ]

[ As a reward for completion, you will be given the Basic Body Cultivation Manual (Tier 1). ]

[ Would you like to receive the guide on how to strengthen your body? ]

"Yes," Li Tian responded aloud, not caring if anyone overheard him.

Immediately, a wave of information flooded his mind, detailed yet simple enough to grasp. The steps of basic body refinement techniques flashed before him, outlining how he could use even the smallest amount of spiritual energy in the air to begin tempering his body.

The process wasn't foreign to him. In his previous life, he had experienced body cultivation techniques, though far more advanced than this. However, considering the weak state of his current body, this was the perfect starting point. The methods were crude but effective, designed for those who had yet to develop even a hint of spiritual energy.

[ To begin your training, start by regulating your breathing. Focus on the energy flow within your body, however weak it may be. ]

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Li Tian followed the instructions, closing his eyes and drawing slow, deliberate breaths. The faint trace of spiritual energy in the air began to gather around him. It was barely noticeable, but with each inhale, he felt a slight stirring within his body, a faint trace of warmth.

[ Circulate this energy through your meridians, allowing it to nourish your muscles, bones, and organs. ]

The system's guidance was precise. Li Tian mentally followed the flow of energy through his body, circulating it through his meridians. His past experiences as a cultivator helped him navigate this process with ease, even if his body was currently weak. After several cycles of breathing and circulation, he felt a subtle change.

The tension in his muscles lessened, and the ache in his bones dulled. It was slow progress, but progress nonetheless.

Hours passed as he remained in this meditative state. The world outside his room slipped away, and even the distant sounds of the bustling Li family estate faded into the background. By the time he finally opened his eyes, dawn had begun to break, casting faint light through the narrow window.

[ Task Progress: 25% ]

[ Keep circulating spiritual energy to achieve completion. ]

Li Tian stretched his limbs, feeling a noticeable difference in his body. His muscles felt less fatigued, and there was a newfound strength in his bones. It wasn't much, but it was a start. He smiled, satisfied with the result.

However, just as he was about to continue, the door creaked open again. His half-sister, Li Xue, appeared, her eyes wide with concern.

"Brother Tian, are you alright?" she asked softly, stepping into the room. "I heard from the servants that you've been locked up here all night..."

Li Tian gave her a reassuring look. "I'm fine, Li Xue. Just focusing on something important."

She eyed him curiously, glancing around the small room. "Important? Is it about your cultivation? I heard from some of the elders that... you've never been able to cultivate."

Li Tian nodded. "That's true, but things are changing. Don't worry."

Her eyes brightened. "Really? That's wonderful! If you start cultivating, then maybe Father and the others will—"

Li Tian raised a hand, stopping her. "No need to get ahead of ourselves, Li Xue. Father won't change his view of me so easily, nor will my brothers."

Li Xue lowered her head, her voice soft. "But... I believe in you, Brother Tian. You're different from them. You've always been kind to me..."

Li Tian smiled at her innocence. While he appreciated her loyalty, he knew the realities of this world far too well. "Thank you, Li Xue. Your support means a lot."

She gave a small, hesitant smile before stepping closer. "I brought you breakfast again. I thought you might be hungry."

Li Tian's eyes landed on the small tray she held out to him. On it were a few steamed buns, some dried fruit, and a small bowl of broth. It was a simple meal, but considering his situation, it was a luxury he couldn't ignore.

"Thank you," he said, taking the tray from her hands. He began eating as she sat quietly beside him, watching him with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

After finishing his meal, Li Tian leaned back, contemplating his next step. He had made progress with the system's guidance, but he would need much more strength if he intended to rise in this world. His brothers were still far ahead of him in terms of cultivation, and the gap wouldn't close overnight.

[ Task Progress: 50% ]

[ Continue refining your body to complete the task. ]

Li Xue, sensing that her brother was deep in thought, slowly stood up. "I'll leave you to your training, Brother Tian. But... if you need anything, please let me know."

Li Tian nodded, watching her as she left the room. Once the door closed behind her, he closed his eyes again and resumed his focus.

[ Continue circulating the spiritual energy. Remember, consistency is key in body refinement. ]

Hours passed again, but this time, Li Tian pushed himself harder. He drew in more spiritual energy, allowing it to circulate through his body, strengthening his muscles and bones. The pain that had once plagued his weak body began to fade as the energy worked its magic, mending the damage and refining his physical form.

By the time the sun had fully risen, Li Tian could feel the difference. His body, once fragile and aching, now felt sturdy, filled with a newfound vitality.

[ Task Completed: Strengthen Your Body ]

[ Reward: Basic Body Cultivation Manual (Tier 1) ]

[ You have unlocked the first level of cultivation: Body Refinement (Stage 1) ]

A wave of satisfaction washed over him as the system's notification echoed in his mind. He had successfully completed the task and was now officially a cultivator, albeit at the lowest level. But it was enough for now. This was just the beginning.

Li Tian opened his eyes, his gaze sharp and focused. The real journey was just beginning.