Reincarnation of the Celestial Bastard

Chapter 7: The Gathering Storm

The dawn of a new day broke over the Li family estate, casting golden rays across the tranquil gardens. Li Tian awoke with renewed vigor, eager to continue his training and explore the depths of the cultivation techniques he had recently begun to master.

Today, he would focus on refining the Nine Celestial Steps further, but he also had another task in mind: to gather more knowledge about the Li family's history and the cultivation techniques that had been passed down through generations. He knew that understanding the family's legacy would give him an edge, especially when confronting his brothers.

After a quick breakfast, Li Tian made his way to the estate's library. It was a grand hall filled with ancient tomes and scrolls, the scent of aged parchment hanging in the air. He wandered through the aisles, his fingers brushing against the spines of the books, feeling the weight of knowledge contained within.

Finally, he found a section dedicated to cultivation techniques and family history. He pulled out a few volumes, carefully examining the titles. "Li Family Cultivation Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide," one read. Another one caught his eye: "Legends of the Ancients: The Founders of the Li Clan."

Settling into a quiet corner of the library, he opened the first book and began to read. The pages were filled with detailed descriptions of various cultivation techniques, some of which had been lost to time. He took notes, jotting down anything that might be useful in his journey to strengthen his abilities.

[ Task: Research Li Family Techniques ]

[ Reward: Knowledge of Ancient Cultivation Methods ]

As he delved deeper into the text, he stumbled upon a section about the Heavenly Flame Technique, an advanced method used for refining spiritual energy through fire. It was said to be incredibly powerful but required immense control and understanding of both fire and spiritual energy.

"This could be a game changer," Li Tian muttered to himself, excitement bubbling within him. He envisioned himself harnessing such power, becoming a force to be reckoned with in the cultivation world.

Just then, he heard footsteps approaching. Looking up, he saw Li Xue entering the library, a stack of books in her arms. Her eyes lit up when she spotted him. "Brother Tian! I thought I'd find you here. I brought some books too!"

"Great! I was just reading about some advanced techniques," he replied, gesturing for her to join him. "What did you find?"

Li Xue placed her books on the table, and they began to share their findings. The excitement in her voice was infectious as she talked about the various techniques she had discovered. "I found some great breathing exercises and forms that might help you with your Nine Celestial Steps!"

"Let's review them together," Li Tian suggested, feeling a surge of motivation. They spent the next hour exchanging knowledge and practicing techniques, their laughter echoing in the quiet library.

As they worked, Li Tian felt a sense of camaraderie with his sister. She was not just a supportive figure; she was becoming a true partner in his journey.

However, their peaceful training was soon interrupted. The heavy wooden doors of the library swung open, and Li Wei strode in, flanked by several of his friends. His presence immediately darkened the atmosphere.

"Well, well, if it isn't the little bastard and his pet," Li Wei sneered, his gaze sweeping over the books scattered on the table. "Still pretending to be a cultivator, I see?"

Li Tian straightened, his heart racing. He had hoped to avoid confrontation today, but it seemed that was not in the cards. "What do you want, Li Wei?"

"Just came to see what you're up to. Looks like you're wasting your time with all these books. You'll never amount to anything," Li Wei taunted, crossing his arms.

Li Xue stepped forward, her expression defiant. "Brother Wei, stop being mean! Brother Tian is working hard!"

Li Wei chuckled darkly. "Hard? This is hardly hard work. Why don't you tell him the truth, little sister? He's just a disgrace to the Li name."

The tension in the room thickened. Li Tian could feel his anger boiling beneath the surface, but he forced himself to remain calm. Responding with anger would only give them the satisfaction they sought.

"Leave us alone, Li Wei. I'm done with your games," Li Tian said, trying to keep his voice steady.

Li Wei's eyes glinted with malice. "Oh, but this is too entertaining. I think I'll stick around and watch you fail. After all, the family is counting on the real heirs to uphold the Li name."

As Li Wei continued to mock him, Li Tian felt a surge of determination. He would not allow his brother to dictate his path. In that moment, he decided to take a stand. "You think I'll fail? Just wait and see. I'll show you that I'm not just a weakling."

Li Wei raised an eyebrow, surprised by Li Tian's sudden confidence. "Is that a challenge? You think you can actually compete with us? You're just a child playing at being a cultivator."

"Perhaps. But I'll surpass you," Li Tian replied firmly.

The tension crackled in the air as the two brothers stared each other down. Li Wei's laughter echoed in the library, but it was tinged with a hint of uncertainty. "We'll see, little brother. I look forward to your inevitable failure."

With that, Li Wei turned to leave, but not before casting one last scornful glance at Li Xue. "Don't waste your time on him, sister. You're better than that."

Once they were gone, Li Xue turned to Li Tian, concern etched on her face. "Are you okay, Brother Tian? I don't like how he treats you."

"I'm fine, Li Xue," Li Tian said, forcing a smile. "He's just trying to get a rise out of me. I won't let him."

"But what if he challenges you to a duel? He might try to prove that you're weak," she said, her eyes wide with worry.

"Then I'll accept," Li Tian replied, determination hardening in his voice. "I won't back down. I need to show him and the rest of the family that I'm not someone to be underestimated."

Li Xue bit her lip, clearly apprehensive. "Just be careful, Brother Tian. I believe in you, but I don't want you to get hurt."

"I will be careful. And I'll train harder than ever," he assured her. "With the techniques I'm learning, I'll be ready for anything they throw at me."

After spending a few more hours in the library, they decided to leave and return to their respective training regimens. Li Tian felt the weight of his resolve strengthening with each step.

As he prepared to leave, he couldn't shake the feeling that the storm was just beginning. Li Wei and his brothers would not stop their taunts, and soon enough, they would want to test his newfound strength. But he was ready.

In the coming days, he would push himself to new limits. He would perfect the Nine Celestial Steps, explore the Heavenly Flame Technique, and gather as much knowledge as he could about the Li family's ancient cultivation practices.

With each challenge, he would grow stronger. Li Tian was determined to turn the tide and prove that he was a force to be reckoned with. The shadows of the past would not dictate his future; he would forge his own path.

As he stepped outside, the sun setting behind him, Li Tian took a deep breath, feeling the energy of the world around him. This was only the beginning of his journey, and he would embrace every moment.