Chapter 60: Chapter 60 (Inspiration capsule Extra Chapter)
Ethan observed the Heavenly Spirit Pill floating before him, a radiant capsule packed with fiery essence that pulsed like a heart aflame.
No wonder it contained such pure and intense firepower. Under normal circumstances, the herbs it was refined from needed to be centuries old—more than eight hundred years—meeting the strictest standards for heavenly elixirs.
But these four fire-attribute herbs used to make the elixir now were ten thousand years old, refined and sealed not once but eight times by an alchemist kindled with innate spiritual fire. Such treasures were truly rare, nearly mythic in their power and purity.
"Though I can’t say how this elixir will serve your physical cultivation," Lyralei said with a gentle smile, "you desire it; it is yours." She waved her hand gracefully, and the pill along with the blazing flame jade floated into Ethan’s grasp.
"Thank you, Senior Sister," Ethan said, cupping his hands in respect.
"What else do you seek to ask?" Lyralei inquired.
Ethan’s eyes sharpened.
"Senior Sister, do you know much about ancient physical cultivation?"
Her brow furrowed slightly. "Little beyond the common knowledge. Physical cultivation, as many believe, was once a glorious path—a path brightly lit by formidable masters. But over time, it fell into decline, resources were lost, inheritances were destroyed, and few now truly comprehend it."
"Yet, our sect’s grand library holds some records on ancient physical cultivation. When you have time, you can search them."
"Thank you." Ethan inclined his head appreciatively.
"There’s nothing more pressing today. I shall take my leave."
Before departing, Ethan offered politely, "When you have time, Senior Sister, please come visit my humble place. I haven’t much, but the wine is good, and the food plenty."
Lyralei turned, preparing to go, but paused at the gate and looked back.
"Junior Brother, there is something else on my mind."
"Ask freely," Ethan encouraged.
"If I can be of help, just say so."
Lyralei’s expression grew serious.
"Ten years from now, the Ancient Sect Spiritual Trials will open. I hope you will take the role of Seraphina’s fourth protector and guide her through the trials."
Only then did Ethan grasp the true purpose of her visit.
The goodwill, the gifts, even the subtle nudges linking him to Liana—they were all parts of a grand design. Lyralei’s scheming depth matched her title as sect leader.
She could act with such grace and kindness that refusal was no simple matter.
But Ethan was a man of principles.
He smiled softly. "I see your intent clearly, Senior Sister. And for that, I’m sorry."
"I can agree to many things, but not this."
With calm hands crossed before him, his voice was steady and chilling.
"I will not stand as protector for Seraphina in the Ancient Sect Spiritual Trials."
Confusion flashed across Lyralei’s face.
"Ethan, your status now is not what it once was. You are Seraphina’s martial uncle. She was reckless in youth, but you must not mirror her."
"The ethereal seal of our sect rests on Seraphina’s soul. Only she may enter the trials."
"Since the Ancient Sect’s trials first appeared over eight thousand years ago in Skyreach Territory, no one has perfectly completed the third-level trial and claimed the ultimate inheritance."
"Do not force fate’s hand. Even with me protection, she may fail, if she is not strong enough. How much can a outsider intervene in a spiritual trial meant for someone else. Besides, Seraphina despises me. I suggest you find others."
Ethan’s tone remained composed.
"The fault lies with Seraphina, and I accept your apology on her behalf. But Senior Sister, this was not your doing—it was your duty as leader. A dignified sect leader does not apologize for another’s sins."
Lyralei nodded vacantly, playing her part with skill.
"As my junior brother, you will one day be deputy sect leader," she said, voice weighted with expectation.
"You must shoulder responsibility and help Seraphina pass the trials."
"The ancient inheritance held by that trial could elevate the Azure Origin Dao Sect to a super sect commanding all Skyreach Territory."
She bit her lip deeply, the gravity grounding her words.
The Spiritual Path Trial rivals and invites the top geniuses from every major force across the realm, including demon clans and sects far off in Blackshire Mountain.
The trial’s outcome shapes the destiny of the sects for a century or more.
"I promised Master to ensure the demon beneath the Demon Sealing Cave remains bound."
"But if the sect falls, the demon will surely break free."
"I have my plan to handle that threat."
"As for protecting the saint, Senior Sister, I ask you to not bring it up again. The sect is filled with geniuses; four protectors can be found without me."
Lyralei was speechless.
Only moments ago she had approached with the full weight of a leader, showering favors and requests. Yet Ethan refused her on this matter—steady as a mountain.
"I did not expect such stubbornness from a junior so young," she said abruptly, a flicker of emotion hidden in her words.
"Senior Sister, one cannot ask others for kindness if they don’t understand suffering themselves."
She paused at the door, frowning briefly before turning away.
As she walked toward the edge of Serene Mirror Lake, Lilith leapt from the brush beside the path.
"How did it go, Queen Empress?"
Lyralei shook her head slowly.
"The Empress intervened personally," Lilith muttered disbelief. "But still could not persuade the boy?"
"These times are different," Lyralei replied softly.
Lilith clenched her fist. "This kid lacks foresight... How about I teach him a lesson?"
Lyralei’s glare was fierce. "If you dare harm Ethan, you will suffer consequences."
With those words, she vanished into shadow.
Lilith’s desperate voice called after her, "What could possibly happen to me? What are the consequences? What level is that kid? Empress, wait for me!"
A/N:
Extra Chapters
100 power stones - 1 Extra Chapters
200 power stones - 2 Extra Chapters
Capsule - 1 Extra Chapters
Massage Chair - 3 Extra Chapters
Luxury Car - 5 Extra Chapters
Magic Castle - 15 Extra Chapters
....
Thanks for the Inspiration Capsule: @Kaishepard28