Chapter 4 Forging the Path of a Disciple

Li Tian sat cross-legged inside the secluded valley, the early morning mist rolling over the lush greenery. A sudden chime rang inside his mind, the familiar presence of the system emerging once again.

[Congratulations, Host. Your disciple has officially stepped into the path of cultivation. As a reward, the system has granted the following gifts:]

[A spiritual beast egg: The pet will serve as a companion and protector.]

[A set of Qi Refinement cultivation pills to aid your disciple's progress.]

[New system function unlocked: Disciple Progression Rewards – The host will now receive rewards based on the growth and achievements of their disciple.]

Li Tian’s eyes gleamed as he read through the rewards. The new system function piqued his interest the most. If his disciple’s achievements granted him benefits, then guiding him properly would not only benefit the boy but also himself.

A golden light flickered in front of him, and a smooth white egg with faint spiritual energy patterns appeared, hovering gently before resting on the ground. Li Tian reached out and touched it, feeling the life within. He did not yet know what kind of creature lay inside, but if it was a gift from the system, it was bound to be extraordinary. Next to it, a small jade bottle materialized, containing the Qi Refinement pills that would enhance Li Feng ’s cultivation.

Another notification appeared.

[Would Host like to activate the new system function now?]

Li Tian didn’t hesitate. “Activate.”

[Disciple Progression Rewards function activated. Future milestones achieved by your disciples will yield additional benefits for the host.]

Li Tian’s mind raced with possibilities. If nurturing disciples provided him rewards, then expanding his teachings and guiding powerful cultivators could elevate his strength even faster. However, he would remain selective—his Seclusion System valued solitude, and bringing in too many people could disrupt the delicate balance of his growth.

Looking over at Li Feng, who was still stabilizing his foundation, Li Tian nodded to himself. “First, I must prepare him properly.”

His thoughts were soon interrupted by a final system prompt.

[To further support the growth of the first disciple, the system bestows an additional gift: The Divine Axe of Creation.]

A surge of energy split the air, and a mighty axe materialized before Li Tian. The weapon radiated ancient power, its body gleaming with engravings that seemed to shift like flowing rivers. He grasped it lightly, feeling a connection to its essence. This was not an ordinary weapon—this was something far greater.

“A divine axe… Could it be?” Li Tian murmured, his mind drifting to the stories of ancient figures who wielded axes capable of splitting the heavens. His disciple’s identity was still a mystery to the world, but it seemed the system was guiding him down an unshakable path of greatness.

He approached  Li Feng , who had just opened his eyes, a stable flow of Qi circulating within him. The boy’s expression carried newfound determination.

“You’ve officially stepped onto the path of cultivation,” Li Tian said, his tone calm yet firm. “This is only the beginning. Cultivation is not just about gaining strength—it is a journey filled with trials, setbacks, and enlightenment. Do you understand?”

Li Feng nodded, his eyes shining. “Yes, master.”

Li Tian handed him the axe. “This is the Divine Axe of Creation. It is a weapon befitting your potential, but do not let it control you. Master it, and one day, it may serve as your greatest ally.”

Li Feng took the weapon with reverence, gripping the handle tightly. The moment he did, a faint aura flickered around him, as if recognizing its new owner.

Li Tian then handed over the Qi Refinement pills. “Use these sparingly. They will aid your progress, but your true strength will come from your own comprehension and efforts.”

Li Feng  bowed deeply. “Thank you, master. I will not disappoint you.”

Li Tian’s gaze shifted toward the valley. He had prepared his disciple well, but now it was time for him to experience the world beyond this secluded haven. The true path of cultivation was not found solely in meditation—it required real experience.

“The time has come for you to leave the valley for a while,” Li Tian declared. “You must temper yourself in the outside world. Go and experience life beyond these mountains, but remember your purpose. Return stronger.”  

Li Feng . “I will, master.”

As his disciple prepared to depart, Li Tian turned his attention back to the system. If he could receive rewards based on his disciple’s progress, then this was only the beginning of his cultivation journey. With his valley protected by the system’s barriers and his own strength continuing to grow, he was ready to step deeper into the boundless world of cultivation.

Chapter end