C16 The Old Man

Wandering aimlessly through Chiba City, Yang Rui found comfort despite the lack of danger. The lively streets bustling with people gave him a sense of reality. He had only been in this world for a few days and hadn't yet had a real encounter with it. Relying on the memories of his former indulgent life was futile; he had to fend for himself. Without the system, he would have been at a complete loss in this foreign world, clueless about its rules.

Now, with some groundwork laid, he seized the opportunity to explore and understand the world that would be his home for life. The most absurd part was that the system responsible for bringing him here had fallen into a deep slumber.

Sighing softly, Yang Rui lamented his difficult situation. He was so frustrated, he felt like flipping a table!

"Gurgle, gurgle~"

Oh no! I'm starving! It seems I forgot to bring money with me...

Filled with resentment, Yang Rui had no choice but to turn back. He knew that a profligate son often dined and dashed, but that was not something he was willing to stoop to; he had his pride to consider!

Well, it was time to head back; he had seen enough for the day. As Yang Rui strolled home, he mulled over his future plans. "Strength is truly valuable. Now that I've mastered the Spirit Tempering Spell, it's time to learn the Nine-circle Ethereal Step. I need the ability to escape; direct confrontation isn't my style. Aren't those who favor brute force often the first to fall?" Yang Rui had little respect for the brawlers, but he knew that strength was essential to avoid being caught. Thus, "The Mad Blood Blade Technique" was an excellent choice for him. It had low requirements, allowing for a surge in combat power as long as one was still alive, despite the significant drawbacks.

Why must a young man like me endure such trials? Hold on! Am I really only fourteen years old???

Yang Rui had only recently begun to confront his own shortcomings. He was quite young, yet that fool Ximen Haoyu appeared to be merely thirteen years old. Yang Rui's stepfather had mentioned that it was too late for him to start his cultivation at this age. In the eyes of this world, it certainly was late. Nevertheless, with the aid of the system, Yang Rui mastered the Bone Forging Stage overnight. He not only caught up with the progress he had missed but also greatly exceeded the cultivation limits of his peers.

"So, I'm actually not weak at all?" Yang Rui stroked his chin, a smug smile forming on his face. "Hehehe, it seems that no matter where I am, I'm destined to be a prodigy!"

As he strolled along the main thoroughfare of Chiba City, Yang Rui noticed several individuals in dark green robes acting suspiciously. He decided to stay alert; in this world, a moment's carelessness could be fatal.

Yang Rui slowed his pace and quickly confirmed his suspicions: these individuals were indeed up to something, as they all covertly watched the same location—the Lau family's residence.

Furthermore, Yang Rui spotted a black, web-like pattern embroidered on the hem of their robes, indicating they were members of the same organization. What business did they have with the Lau family?

"Whatever, it's not my concern. They're not watching my house," Yang Rui thought, shaking his head as he continued on his way home. He was famished and eager to refuel. Besides, the families of Chiba City were not to be trifled with. Should trouble arise, things would certainly get interesting.

The Lau family lived not too far from the Yang family. As Yang Rui neared his home, he encountered an elderly man in a black robe sitting at a street corner.

"Young Master, please hold a moment!" the old man called out upon noticing Yang Rui.

"Hmm?" Yang Rui glanced at the elder, puzzled. "What is it?"

"Young Master, you possess a robust aura and extraordinary bones—a natural talent for martial arts. Would you consider becoming my disciple?" the old man asked, his eyes twinkling as he gazed at Yang Rui.

"What?" Yang Rui was taken aback. Yes, truly taken aback!

That familiar line, that dialogue! Was he the old man from "Kung Fu"? What was he doing here, trying to fool me? Dream on!

"Old man, have you lost your mind?" Yang Rui muttered, scratching his nose in disbelief.

"What did you say?" Although the elder didn't grasp Yang Rui's words, he sensed they weren't complimentary. Yet, he remained unbothered, smiling warmly at Yang Rui. "I've been in Chiba City for several days now. Meeting you again must be destiny."

Yang Rui's guard was instantly up. This old man was trouble! He'd been in Chiba City for days, just waiting for me? Something's not right!

This old man was a big problem! His father was a warrior of the Profound Essence Stage Rank 8. Even if he was not the strongest, surely he would have noticed someone loitering at their doorstep for days. Why hadn't this old man shown himself when he was with Chuncao and Yixia a few days ago? Why appear only when I'm alone? This old man definitely had ulterior motives, and his strength was likely formidable! I need to stay on my toes!

While these thoughts raced through his mind, Yang Rui forced a laugh. "Destiny? Oh, you're quite the character, old man. But I assure you, there's no destiny between us."

As he spoke, Yang Rui kept moving, positioning himself strategically. They were about a thousand meters from the Yang family's residence—not too far, but not close either. It would take Yang Zhantian at least two breaths to reach him, and Yang Rui was acutely aware that there wasn't enough time.

The elder watched Yang Rui's cautious movements and chuckled. The boy was still so naive. I simply didn't want to reveal my presence. It would be a hassle if that other fellow caught wind of me. Besides, with your current level of strength, where could you possibly run to?

As if oblivious to Yang Rui's defensive stance, the old man went on, "I've been watching you for a few days. You were nothing but a weakling before, but now your strength has undergone a dramatic transformation. I'm curious about what Yang Zhantian has done to you! I'm quite eager to find out."

Upon hearing this, Yang Rui realized escape was futile. This was bad. He needed to come up with a plan, and fast!

"Oh? Thinking of running away? You won't escape! The most powerful warrior in all of Chiba City is none other than Yang Zhantian, who has only reached Profound Essence Stage Rank 8! Who do you think can save you?" The elder smiled faintly, and with a simple gesture, Yang Rui was helplessly snatched up by an unseen force.

"It's over!" This was the sole thought racing through Yang Rui's mind. "This old man must have an ulterior motive, but what could it be? What value could a nobody like me possibly have? Is it for the growth of my strength? Or is it something else?"

"Rest assured, I have no intention of harming you. However, there are certain matters that only you can initiate!" The elder's face showed a mix of emotions as he glanced at Yang Rui. "You've reached the Bone Forging Stage in just a few days. Your talent is certainly not lacking, but some people and some things inevitably require a resolution."

Yet Yang Rui stood there, utterly bewildered, clueless about what the elder was referring to!

Just then, as Yang Rui was being drawn towards the elder, he came to a sudden halt in midair. The elder was immobilized as well, and a voice thundered in both of their ears!