Yuan’s Ascension

"Wu Yuan," Chieftain Wu Qiming started to persuade him.

"Chieftain." Wu Yuan interrupted, "I understand where you are coming from. The main family of the Wu Clan would also regard me with importance, providing abundant resources for my cultivation. I would progress much faster by going there than by cultivating alone."

"Then why?" asked Wu Qiming, puzzled.

"I dislike trouble," Wu Yuan shook his head, "There are only slightly more than nine months left until the martial academy major tournament. Even if I were to go to the main clan, how much resources could they offer me?"

"If it's too little, it won't be of much use to me. If it's too much, I fear disputes may arise within the main clan. Not everyone might welcome me. Why put myself through all that? I might as well head directly to the Cloud Martial Hall when the time comes."

"The resources provided by the Cloud Martial Hall will also be limited," Wu Qiming frowned, "In the coming years, the main branch can continue supporting your cultivation."

"Chieftain, in the path of martial arts, resources are secondary, the self is most important," Wu Yuan smiled, "Besides, the Cloud Martial Hall only limits the resources provided to ordinary disciples. What if I shine bright enough?"

"In just three months, I already possess the strength of a martial virtuoso. In another nine months, I might even advance further and perhaps receive top-notch care from the sect. That would be an even better outcome, don't you think?" Wu Yuan's expression held a mixture of jest and seriousness.

He would have to reveal his strength eventually. After all, he was planning to challenge the pinnacle of martial arts in this world! Moreover, the trip to Ninecloud Mountain sparked Wu Yuan's interest in joining a major power. The Cloudstride Sect was a viable option.

"Advance further?" Wu Qiming's eyes narrowed slightly. He knew that the Wu Clan had only revealed part of Wu Yuan's strength to the public, yet that alone was enough to astonish people. To advance further, did that mean becoming an Adept?

A fifteen-year-old Adept? That was a rather terrifying prospect.

His instincts told him that Wu Yuan was overestimating himself, but considering this child’s consistently prudent actions, as well as his progress over the past few months, he dared not dismiss the possibility outright.

A moment of silence went by.

"Agreed." Wu Qiming suddenly exclaimed, "Wu Yuan, you've always been someone with strong convictions. From now on, you’ll be in charge of your cultivation matters. If you need anything from the clan, do not hesitate to ask."

"Furthermore, from this month onwards, the family will provide you with 1000 silver taels every month until you enter the Cloud Martial Hall." Wu Qiming said in a deep voice, "How you spend it is up to you, the clan will not interfere."

"Chieftain, this is too much..." Wu Yuan knitted his brows.

"Do not refuse!" Wu Qiming glared at him, "These 1000 taels are not just from me, but a decision agreed upon by the clan's higher echelons. This is the most the clan can do to help you."

"Of course, this help doesn't come without a price. When you become powerful in the future, remember to repay the clan." Wu Qiming added.

Wu Yuan looked at the chieftain, who maintained a stern look despite his injuries. At that moment, he understood that if he didn't accept this silver, it might truly worry and unsettle the chieftain.

"Alright, then. Chieftain, I accept." Wu Yuan agreed.

"That's more like it." Wu Qiming's face brightened.

...

After Wu Yuan left the ancestral manor, a group entered Wu Qiming's room. Among them were Wu Long, Wu Liuye and Wu Dongyao.

"Wu Yuan does not wish to be transferred to the main clan." Wu Qiming said softly.

"Really?"

"That's great!"

"What a pity." The group showed mixed feelings, some seemed relieved, and some were slightly regretful.

"I have explained the pros and cons to Wu Yuan." Wu Qiming swept his gaze across the crowd, "But Wu Yuan is a sentimental child. He does not wish to move his family lineage to the main clan."

"This is a sacrifice he made for our clan. Moving forward, I do not wish to hear opposing voices in our clan." Wu Qiming's tone brook no argument.

"Haha, Chieftain, rest assured," laughed Wu Liuye, his white beard dancing with each chuckle. "Our vision pales in comparison to yours. It is because of your unwavering confidence that we were able to see the day Wu Yuan's hard work paid off."

"Since Wu Yuan is staying in our branch clan, the rise of the Wu Clan in Li City will be inevitable as he grows stronger," Wu Dongyao chuckled.

"In the future, our branch could very well become a powerful clan, not any inferior to the main clan," a voice chimed in.

Even though main and branch clans shared common roots, once a branch clan expanded, divisions were bound to occur, especially if the main clan didn't provide enough support or exert sufficient control over the branch clan.

As the saying goes, 'Close in the first generation, distant in the second, and by the third and fourth generations, they become strangers.'

The clansmen of the Li City branch didn't harbor any particular feelings for the Southdream Wu Clan, only perceiving it as a distant place.

......

Southdream Wu Clan? Wu Yuan shook his head slightly.

He felt a sense of belonging to the Wu Clan of Li City. This was due to the teachings of his father etched in his memory, due to the clan's years of support for his mother and himself, and due to the chieftain's guidance throughout his journey.

Main Clan? Who were they to tell him what to do? They even had the gall to request him to change his family lineage?

Wu Yuan knew very well that bloodline heritage was treated with utmost importance in this world. One's family lineage was sacred, and even martial powerhouses couldn't avoid the repercussions of it.

In the future, if I become strong and the main clan gains some benefits from it, that will be my way of repaying them.

The main clan wanted him to wear himself out for them? Dream on!

It's been a few months since I've regained consciousness and faked an awakening in my martial path. By displaying the strength of a martial virtuoso, I'm already considered a dazzling genius. If I revealed my full capabilities, letting the world know that I have the strength of a first-rate Adept? .

Anyone would think that something was amiss. The word 'genius' wasn't enough to explain it.

Time is on my side. I will reveal my strength bit by bit. When my strength reaches a certain point, such worries will naturally fade away.

If one had the strength of a legendary Heavenly Ranker, who would dare to question them? If one's strength fell short, abiding by the rules would allow them to have an easier time.

Unexpectedly, this matter is indeed related to the Xu faction. Despite my prior concession, they refuse to let up. A cold glint flashed in Wu Yuan's eyes. This score needs to be settled.

After returning from Ninecloud Mountain, he now understood the truth of this world. The last bit of hesitation and restraint in Wu Yuan's heart unconsciously dissipated.

He went straight home.

"Mother!"

In a burst of excitement, his younger sister Wu Yijun, dashed outside, jubilantly calling out, "Mother, brother has returned!"

"Little Yi." Wu Yuan smiled and played along with her as usual, skillfully picking up his sister with one hand as he walked into the kitchen: "Mother, I'm back."

"You're back?" Wanqin, who was preoccupied with a task, was pleasantly surprised. She gently admonished, "I understand that your training is crucial, but if you plan to be away from the martial academy for an extended period, please do inform someone."

"Understood, mother," Wu Yuan grinned. Despite her chiding words, her voice was filled with concern.

"Since you're back, I'll make some more noodles." Wanqin quickly got busy.

"Alright, I've been craving your meat noodles," Wu Yuan laughed cheerfully.

"The house seems cleaner than before." Wu Yuan's gaze swept across the kitchen.

The walls were freshly painted, a noticeable improvement from before. Even his mother's complexion seemed healthier compared to when he had just regained consciousness in this world.

The family of three enjoyed a warm, cozy breakfast.

"Mother, the chieftain has returned." Wu Yuan set down his bowl and chopsticks. "I came here after visiting the ancestral mansion this morning."

Wanqin replied, "I had guessed as much. Given your nearly martial virtuoso-level strength, the clan values you highly. They would definitely have summoned you at the first instance."

"Mother, you knew?" Wu Yuan was slightly astonished.

"I am your mother." Wanqin cast a glance at Wu Yuan then chuckled, "The news has spread throughout the clan. How could I not know?"

Wu Yuan responded with a smile.

"Yuan'er, your martial talent is so incredible that it's frightening. I've heard from others in the clan that you are the most talented martial genius in Li County in the last decade. You're likely to achieve great things in the future, and this is a good thing. As your mother, I'm happy for you." Wanqin looked at Wu Yuan, "But always remember, safety first."

"Your mother doesn't expect you to achieve grand military honors or gain power and prestige. I only wish for you to be safe and sound." Wanqin's face bore a hint of worry.

"I understand, Mother." Wu Yuan solemnly responded.

He understood Wanqin's worry. Achieving grand military honors, gaining power and prestige? His father was the youngest martial virtuoso in the clan, with high hopes of becoming an Adept. To garner military achievements and bring glory to the family, he voluntarily joined the sect's army. Soon after that, news of his death arrived.

People only saw martial artists gallantly riding across the land, charging across continents and provinces. But how many saw the brutal bloodshed behind the blinding sword lights? For every hundred entering the martial world, only a handful return.

"Mother, I will often be in seclusion in the coming period, so I may not be home often." Wu Yuan quickly added, "Please don't worry too much."

"Okay." Wanqin nodded. She also knew that martial arts training was quite the monotonous grind, requiring a great deal of determination and perseverance in order to achieve results. Training in seclusion was common among martial artists.

...

After leaving his home, Wu Yuan returned to the martial academy to pick up his belongings. Coming to a side street, he employed Transfiguration, and proceeded towards the south of the city.

The sky began to darken.

In a rather secluded alleyway in the south of the city, where pedestrians were scant.

"Sir, this is the courtyard house I've chosen according to your preferences, it's quite large!" An intermediary broker wearing a felt hat gushed in a flattering tone.

"Where's the thing I asked for?" Wu Yuan, now a tall-statured man of 1.9 meters who carried a saber, exuded an intimidating aura.

"It's all prepared in the backyard." The broker hurriedly added, "In accordance with your instructions, we've prepared an extra portion of all types of fodder and food. For the next ten days, someone will deliver a portion daily."

"Good!" Wu Yuan nodded, flipping his palm to present a silver note. He coldly instructed, "As long as you handle the tasks well over the next ten days, you will naturally be rewarded. But don't play tricks with me, otherwise..."

Whoosh! The broker felt a cold gleam flash before his eyes. A deep gash suddenly appeared on the stone floor. As his eyes widened in shock, he noticed a large rip on the front of his clothing.

An expert! The broker gulped. He was an high-tier martial novice. Having spent many years away from Li City, he had a diverse array of experiences. Splitting azure stone with a blade was not hard; an Adept could do it.

But to be this fast with a blade? So fast that he didn't even notice the clothing on his chest being slashed? This was his first time encountering such an expert. This man was very likely a second-rate Adept!

"Sir, I will certainly do an excellent job," the broker said with even more deference, not daring to harbor any ill intent. He had already classified Wu Yuan as a wandering cavalier in his mind!

Intermediary brokers relished such cavaliers the most, as they were known for being generous spenders. Yet, they also dreaded these people the most. Whether the law or king's decree, none could bind them; most cavaliers only believed in the sword they wielded.

The broker departed from sight.

It’s time to try my silly method. Wu Yuan strode into the far depths of the dilapidated courtyard.

This was an abandoned courtyard house. Inconspicuous, and with cheap rent. At the far end stood a line of stables and pigsties, all cleaned thanks to the broker's arrangements. Inside the stable were four horses. In the pigsty, ten robust swine were eating, heads lowered into their troughs.

For such an experiment, pigs are the most suitable subjects. Wu Yuan smiled as he retrieved the green jade vial from his bundle.