After some time sitting and contemplating my next move, the weight of the rogue cultivator’s Spirit Shards in my pocket and the enormity of this world began to settle. The flickering shadows of the village fires danced across the forest’s edge, their faint warmth doing little to soothe the unease in my chest.

“What’s my next step, then?” I asked aloud to the quiet night, though the question was more for myself.

Mira’s voice, calm and steady, responded in my mind.

[Mira]: "There is a settlement a day’s journey from here, larger than this village. There, you will find merchants, wandering cultivators, and the whispers of opportunities. However, the path to strength is fraught with peril. You must remain vigilant."

I nodded to myself, my resolve hardening. “Then that’s where I’ll go. If this world works the way you say, then I need resources, connections, and information. And that starts there.”

****

Farewell to the Village

The next morning, I stood at the edge of the village, the rising sun casting long shadows across the ground. Eren and Anna approached me, their expressions a mix of gratitude and worry. Eren carried a small bundle of supplies he had prepared for my journey, while Anna clutched a shawl tightly around her shoulders.

“You’re really leaving, then,” Eren said, his voice hesitant.

I nodded. “There’s more I need to learn—more I need to do if I’m going to survive here. This settlement I heard about is the next step.”

Anna stepped forward, her eyes soft with gratitude. “You’ve done so much for us, Jayson. I don’t know how we’ll ever repay you.”

“You don’t have to,” I replied, meeting her gaze. “But you can do one thing for me—look out for each other. Eren, Anna… you’re stronger together. Train, learn to defend yourselves, and don’t let this world take more from you than it already has.”

Eren straightened, his determination clear. “I will. I’ll do everything I can to make sure Anna’s safe.”

“And I’ll do my part too,” Anna said, her voice steady despite the lingering shadow of her recent ordeal.

I placed a hand on Eren’s shoulder, gripping it firmly. “Good. Don’t let your guard down, and don’t let anyone tell you what you’re capable of. Prove it to yourselves.”

Eren nodded, his jaw tightening. “We will.”

With that, I turned to leave, the weight of their trust and hope pressing against my shoulders. As I walked away from the village gates, the faint sound of their voices carried on the wind, a reminder of the bonds I was leaving behind and the responsibility I now carried.

****

A Journey Begins

The forest trail stretched before me, winding through towering trees that whispered secrets in the breeze. As I walked, the rustling leaves and distant calls of spirit beasts were a constant reminder that this world was alive in ways I couldn’t yet understand. Mira had been quiet for a while, letting me focus on the rhythm of my steps and the steady crunch of leaves and twigs beneath my boots. Finally, as the sunlight filtered through the dense branches, I broke the silence in my mind. “Mira,” I began hesitantly, “back on Earth, cultivation was just fiction—a cool concept in martial arts novels and movies. But here, it’s real. You’ve told me about technique manuals and cultivation paths, but I still don’t fully understand what those really mean. Can you explain?” Her response came with a tone that felt almost patient, as if she had anticipated this question.

[Mira]: "Of course, Jayson. Cultivation in this realm revolves around harnessing and refining Chi to ascend through ranks of power. However, raw Chi alone is not enough. Cultivation paths and technique manuals provide the framework and skills necessary to shape that energy into something extraordinary."

I adjusted my pack, intrigued despite myself. “So, these manuals—what kind of abilities are we talking about? Enhanced strength? Flashy energy attacks? What’s possible here?”

[Mira]: "What was considered fantastical on Earth is the foundation of this world. Technique manuals fall into many categories, each designed to develop specific aspects of a cultivator’s potential. For example, martial techniques enhance combat prowess, such as the precision and power of your strikes. Movement techniques can increase speed, agility, and evasive abilities, making a cultivator nearly untouchable in battle."

“That’s… already insane,” I said, blinking as I tried to process it. “What else?”

[Mira]: "There are also elemental techniques, which allow a cultivator to attune their Chi to specific forces of nature—fire, water, wind, earth, lightning, and others. With the right training, these paths grant the ability to manipulate these elements for both offense and defense."

I paused in the middle of the trail, staring at the ground as her words sunk in. “You’re telling me I could shoot fireballs or summon storms?”

[Mira]: "Yes, though such mastery requires immense effort and the proper resources. Additionally, there are spiritual techniques focused on Chi manipulation and inner refinement, allowing for heightened senses, illusions, and even the ability to suppress or influence others’ Chi. These are often prized by cultivators seeking control and subtlety over raw power."

The trail widened slightly, and I stepped over a fallen branch, her words fueling my curiosity. “So, I could spend my entire life learning techniques, but if I don’t have the right resources or manuals, I’ll hit a wall?”

[Mira]: "Precisely. This is why cultivators seek rare treasures, powerful allies, and opportunities to grow. A single breakthrough can elevate a cultivator to a level where others cannot hope to compete. Conversely, stagnation can lead to vulnerability and eventual defeat."

I frowned, kicking a loose stone off the path. “That sounds… exhausting. Like I’ll always have to look over my shoulder.”

[Mira]: "The path of cultivation is not one of comfort or certainty. It is a journey of constant growth, challenge, and discovery. But for those who succeed, the rewards are unparalleled—strength, longevity, influence, and freedom."

The thought of freedom made me pause. Back on Earth, I’d been shackled by mediocrity and monotony, always struggling to find my place. Here, despite the danger, I felt something different—a glimmer of hope. “Alright,” I said, resuming my pace. “So, how do I find these manuals? You said sects and ruins, but is there anything else? What about the settlement we’re heading to?”

[Mira]: "The settlement will offer a glimpse into the broader world. Merchants often sell low-tier manuals, though their prices may exceed your current resources. You might also encounter wandering cultivators seeking to barter or share knowledge. However, the most valuable techniques are not bought; they are earned."

“Earned how?”

[Mira]: "By proving your worth. Sects often issue trials for prospective disciples, granting access to their libraries as a reward. Ruins are another option, though they are fraught with peril. Only those with the courage and strength to survive can claim the treasures within."

Her words hung in the air as the forest began to thin, revealing the distant mountains Mira had mentioned. Somewhere beyond them lay the settlement—and my first real steps into the heart of this world.

****

A Road Well Traveled

The landscape gradually shifted as I made my way through the thinning forest. The trees, once dense and shadowed, began to space out, their towering forms giving way to rolling hills and open skies. The air was lighter here, carrying the faint scent of grass and wildflowers. Somewhere in the distance, the soft rumble of a river reached my ears, a reminder of how vast and alive this world was. Despite the beauty surrounding me, my thoughts were fixed on Mira's words. Sects, trials, ruins—this world seemed built on a foundation of constant challenge and peril. The notion of earning my strength through grueling tests wasn’t new to me; life on Earth had been its own kind of trial, but this was on an entirely different scale.

“What are the odds of someone like me surviving in a place like this?” I asked, my voice carrying a faint edge of doubt.

[Mira]: "Your survival thus far is proof of your resilience, Jayson. Many who are born into this realm never make it as far as you already have. You possess something few realize—adaptability. That will be your greatest asset."

I nodded, her words a small but necessary reassurance. Still, I couldn’t shake the gnawing uncertainty. This world was governed by power, and while I had taken my first steps, I knew I was still at the very bottom. As I crested a hill, the first signs of civilization came into view—a dirt road winding through the valley below, flanked by occasional stone markers etched with unfamiliar symbols. Mira’s voice chimed in, drawing my attention.

[Mira]: "That road leads directly to the settlement. Use it cautiously. Roads such as these are often traveled by merchants, wandering cultivators, and sometimes... those with ill intent."

Her warning sent a chill down my spine. “Great. Another thing to worry about,” I muttered. “How do I even tell friend from foe in a place like this?”

[Mira]: "Observe their Chi. Those with calm, steady energy are often merchants or common travelers. Chaotic or aggressive Chi patterns are indicative of hostility or unstable cultivation. Trust your instincts, but remain cautious. Not all threats are immediately visible."

As if on cue, a distant figure appeared on the road below. They were pulling a small cart, their movements slow and deliberate. From this distance, I couldn’t make out any details, but Mira’s earlier advice echoed in my mind. “Should I avoid them?” I asked, my hand instinctively brushing the hilt of my dagger.

[Mira]: "No. This is an opportunity. Approach, but remain guarded. The interaction may yield useful information or resources."

Reluctantly, I descended the hill, my steps careful and measured. The figure noticed me long before I reached the road, stopping in their tracks and leaning against the cart as if to size me up. As I drew closer, their features became clearer—an older man with a wiry frame, his face weathered by years of travel. His cart was laden with small wooden crates, some of which were secured with intricate locks.

“Greetings, traveler,” he called out, his voice rough but not unkind. “What brings you to this road?”

I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. “I’m on my way to the settlement. Figured the road was safer than wandering through the forest.”

The man chuckled, his eyes scanning me with practiced ease. “Smart choice. Though, depending on who you meet, the road’s dangers might be worse.” He gestured to his cart. “You look like you’ve been through some trouble already. Need supplies? Or perhaps something more... specialized?”

My guard went up immediately. “Specialized?”

The man smirked, lifting the corner of a cloth to reveal a small collection of scrolls and leather-bound tomes. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized them for what they were.

“Cultivation techniques,” the man said, his tone dripping with subtle pride. “Basic ones, mind you, but they’re a good start for someone trying to find their footing.”

I stepped closer, my eyes scanning the titles etched onto the spines. Most of the symbols were unfamiliar, but a few bore rough translations in the common tongue—Basic Chi Channeling Techniques, Swift Foot Movement, Elemental Fundamentals: Fire and Wind. My fingers itched to reach out, but I stopped myself.

“How much?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

The merchant’s smile widened, sensing my interest. “Ah, that depends. Low-grade techniques like these go for a hundred Low Spirit Shards each. A fair price, considering their value.”

I grimaced. The rogue cultivator’s shards weighed in my pocket, but I had no idea how much I actually had or how far they would take me. Mira’s voice cut through my hesitation.

[Mira]: "You currently possess 120 Low Spirit Shards. Enough for one manual, but it will leave you with little for other necessities."

I weighed my options, my gaze lingering on the scrolls. Each one represented a potential step forward, a chance to strengthen myself. But was it worth the cost?

Before I could decide, the merchant leaned in slightly, his voice dropping.

“I’ll tell you what. If you don’t have the full amount, I might be willing to trade. Got any spirit beast materials or other valuables?”

My mind flashed to the remnants of the Shadowfang Lynx—the fur, claws, and bones I’d painstakingly harvested under Mira’s guidance. They were still stashed in my pack, a resource I hadn’t yet tapped into.

“Maybe,” I said cautiously. “What kind of trade are you talking about?”

The man’s eyes gleamed. “Show me what you’ve got, and we’ll see.”

I hesitated, glancing down at my pack. The materials represented more than just potential coin—they were a lifeline, a way to survive and replenish my spirit well. But the allure of a cultivation manual, even a basic one, was hard to ignore. Finally, I crouched down, opening the pack to reveal the Shadowfang Lynx materials. The merchant’s expression shifted to one of admiration as he inspected the items.

“Impressive,” he murmured, holding up one of the claws. “This’ll fetch a decent price in the right market. Tell you what—I’ll take the claws and throw in the Swift Foot Movement manual. Deal?”

I hesitated for only a moment before nodding. “Deal.”

As the exchange was made, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of both excitement and trepidation. The scroll now in my possession represented a new step forward, but it also came at a cost.

[Mira]: "A wise choice. Movement techniques are foundational for survival. Mastering this will enhance your agility and evasiveness in combat."

I nodded, tucking the scroll carefully into my pack. As I turned to leave, the merchant called after me.

“Good luck out there, traveler. And remember—knowledge is power, but it’s also a target. Keep that scroll safe.”

His words lingered as I continued down the road, the weight of the scroll heavy in my pack and the path ahead shrouded in uncertainty. Whatever lay beyond the settlement, I knew one thing for sure: this world demanded more than just survival—it demanded transformation. And I was ready to rise to the challenge.

****

Ha-ha, Cloud Storage!

As I walked away from the merchant, the Swift Foot Movement scroll securely tucked into my pack, his parting words stuck in my mind.

"Knowledge is power, but it’s also a target. Keep that scroll safe."

I couldn’t help but glance over my shoulder. The idea of someone targeting me for a single scroll felt both ridiculous and unsettling. In this world, though, it seemed perfectly plausible. If Spirit Shards were enough to spark greed, a technique manual might as well be a beacon for trouble.

[Mira]: "The merchant's warning is valid. Cultivation manuals, especially those with practical applications, are highly coveted. Theft, deception, and violence over such resources are common in this realm."

"Fantastic," I muttered. "Just what I needed—another thing to stress over." As I adjusted the straps of my pack, trying to push the thought of marauding thieves from my mind, Mira’s voice chimed in again.

[Mira]: "Jayson, I can mitigate this concern significantly."

Her tone carried that faint edge of amusement she sometimes had, which made me pause. "Oh? And how exactly are you going to do that?"

[Mira]: "As a sentient system, I possess the capability to commit any information you read or study to permanent memory. Once you’ve fully engaged with the contents of the scroll, its knowledge will be stored within my database. Even if the scroll is stolen, you will retain access to the techniques."

I stopped dead in my tracks. "Wait a second… are you telling me you’re like some kind of walking hard drive? Scratch that—you’re my personal cloud storage?"

[Mira]: "If that analogy helps you comprehend the ability, then yes. My memory is both secure and inexhaustible, unlike conventional storage systems you are familiar with from Earth."

I barked a laugh, the kind of laugh that comes out when something feels both absurd and amazing at the same time. "So, let me get this straight: I’ve got all the world’s ancient martial arts techniques backed up in my head, as long as I read them first? That’s… wow, Mira. You’re basically my Dropbox for cultivation manuals."

[Mira]: "Your terminology is peculiar, but not inaccurate. However, understand that the quality of the information stored depends on your comprehension. Skimming or partially studying a manual will result in incomplete data retention. Thorough engagement is necessary for full accuracy."

I grinned as I resumed walking, the settlement now closer in the distance. "I guess that means no shortcuts, huh? But still, Mira, this is a game-changer. I don’t have to live in constant fear of losing something once I’ve studied it."

[Mira]: "Indeed. But remember, the physical scroll may still hold value as evidence of your learning, or as a bargaining tool in negotiations with others. You cannot disregard its importance entirely."

"Right," I said, nodding to myself. "But knowing I’ve got a backup… that takes a load off my shoulders."

For the first time in this strange world, I felt like I had an edge—a real edge. Mira’s ability wasn’t just convenient; it was a lifeline in a place where power and knowledge were everything. My grin widened as I picked up my pace. The world might still be full of dangers, but at least now I had a secret weapon: Mira’s memory, or as I’d started to think of it, my personal cloud storage for survival.

It felt good to know I wasn’t entirely alone on this journey.