Time flew like a hawk over wind-swept plains. The days blurred into a whirlwind of sweat, effort, and growth.
Taryn had immersed himself in rigorous training—body drills at dawn, cultivation till dusk, sparring simulations, and hours of study under the System's nagging but oddly effective tutoring. The simulations were brutal. His losses numerous. But so were his learnings.
He absorbed every word of Cultivation 103, mastered the foundational combat technique gifted by the system, and honed his body till even the servants whispered about the silent storm brewing in the youngest Calvier heir.
And finally—just a few days ago—he broke through again.
Level 3.
His energy now pulsed with clarity and strength. Each breath drew in spiritual essence like an eager tide. His body had changed, subtly but surely—firmer, sharper, more alive.
The once-forgotten seventh son of House Calvier now stood tall as a cultivator in his own right.
The Present Morning
Sunlight spilled gently through his window as he sat in meditation, energy swirling calmly around him. A soft knock came at the door.
"Master Taryn, it's me—Lila."
Taryn opened his eyes and smiled, his body now naturally vibrant with energy. "Come in."
The maid entered with a bow and a cheerful expression. "I bring exciting news. Your siblings—First Young Master, Second Miss, and Fourth Young Master—will be arriving today."
She clasped her hands behind her back, eyes twinkling. "The remaining ones will arrive by tomorrow. Your parents asked me to remind you to wear something proper and not something soaked in sweat again."
Taryn laughed lightly, heart racing at the thought.
"They're… coming back?" he whispered, almost to himself.
Memories surged—his sister's warm laugh, his fourth brother's stern but comforting presence, his eldest brother's chaotic pranks and gentle pats on the head.
He stood slowly, a mix of nerves and joy bubbling inside him.
"I've grown. I've changed. I'm ready."
The system popped into view, wearing a red ribbon on its head like it was part of a festival.
"Family reunion, huh? Get ready, it's going to be emotional, dramatic, maybe even a bit tear-jerking… or maybe just a lot of hugging and awkward pats."
Taryn chuckled. "Can't be worse than fighting Alpha One."
"Hey! That guy's a masterpiece of code. Don't compare him to your clingy siblings."
He ignored the system's sass and walked to his wardrobe. "It's been a long time since we were all together. I'm not the same Taryn anymore."
He paused before the mirror, eyes filled with quiet resolve.
"This time, I'll stand proudly beside them."