On the hilltop overlooking Bright Leaf Village, morning mist curled gently around the grass. Sanhartha stood quietly before his small hut, eyes calm yet steady. Finally, today I leave for Notting Junior Soul Master Academy.
Three months had passed since his awakening, and in that time, his soul power had already risen to level six. For a six-year-old, it was an astonishing feat — yet Sanhartha's expression held no pride, only quiet satisfaction.
Being a transmigrator from Blue Star, his understanding surpassed the limited worldview of this continent. Though his former world had no cultivators, it overflowed with imagination — countless theories and philosophies about cultivation. He had studied them all.
From those fragmented theories, he devised his own method — a visualization technique that revolved around his martial soul. He envisioned the Desire Heart Phoenix soaring through the void, absorbing the energies of heaven and earth to refine its body, essence, and spirit. Any form of energy could be drawn in and transformed into strength.
He named it Three Treasure Refining Visualization Technique.Through this calm and steady practice, his power grew naturally — a silent, inevitable progression that reflected his inner discipline.
A familiar voice called out, breaking his thoughts."San boy, where were you? You'll make this old man worry to death!"
Old Luo stood at the doorway, feigning anger, though his tone was full of warmth.
Sanhartha turned, a faint smile on his lips. "I was just taking one last look at the village, Grandpa. No need to worry — I'm not a child anymore."
Old Luo pinched his ear lightly. "Hah! You say that, but still act like one."
Sanhartha slipped free with practiced ease, his composure never faltering. The old man chuckled, shaking his head. "You've become so clever lately, boy. Are you ready? We're leaving for Notting City today."
"Everything's prepared," Sanhartha replied calmly, stepping into his hut. He tied the small storage pouch discreetly at his waist and shouldered a cloth bag containing his daily necessities. Though he possessed a storage device, he preferred not to flaunt it — caution was his second nature.
The journey by carriage took several hours. When they reached Notting City, Sanhartha's eyes quietly took in the tall gates, the bustling streets, and the dignified air of the city. His gaze held curiosity, not amazement — he was a man used to observing before judging.
They soon arrived at the gates of Notting Junior Soul Master Academy.A gatekeeper stood guard. Old Luo approached respectfully.
"Brother, we're from Bright Leaf Village. This child is our village's work-study student for this year."
The gatekeeper examined the martial soul certificate carefully, then nodded. "Everything's in order. Only students may enter."
Old Luo turned to Sanhartha, pressing a small pouch into his hand. Inside were a few silver and copper soul coins. His tone grew thick with emotion. "San boy, this is what the whole village gathered for you. Use it wisely, live well."
Before Sanhartha could speak, the old man turned and walked away quickly.
Sanhartha stood in silence, his expression unreadable. Then, he bowed slightly toward the retreating figure. "I will not waste your hopes, Grandpa."
Turning, he entered the academy gates.
At the registration office, he presented his papers and was soon assigned to the Seventh Dormitory — the place for work-study students.
As he walked through the quiet corridors of the academy, Sanhartha felt no nervousness, only a calm awareness settling over him.
This marks the true beginning, he thought.From here on, every step will shape my path.