Lu Kai stood within his newly forged Platinum Sect, the stark, metallic gleam of the mountain peak a testament to his audacious act. He was Sect Master of his own domain, yet still rooted at the Mortal cultivation level. He contemplated his next move, the weight of establishing a sect pressing upon him.
Suddenly, the Authy System's voice echoed, laced with an unusual tone of surprise and urgency. **"Host, your creation of the Platinum Sect has triggered a response. Your status has evolved. You may now choose one of two rewards."**
A holographic message appeared before Lu Kai, presenting two distinct options:
**REWARD OPTION 1: Origin Grass Type**
* *(Automatically transforms into an advanced version when host chooses.)*
**REWARD OPTION 2: Origin Water Type**
* **Special Reward:** Sacred Item: **Martial Book Pavilion.** A massive library containing countless grades of martial techniques, with tiered barriers requiring different levels of achievement and access to each floor.
Lu Kai pondered. The Martial Book Pavilion was tempting – a treasure trove of techniques that could rapidly accelerate his understanding of this world's power systems. However, the mention of "Origin Grass Type" automatically transforming into an advanced version piqued his divine curiosity. He thought of his sister, Lu Er, whose unique frost powers were still developing. Perhaps nature-based abilities would complement his own unique divine essence in ways he hadn't considered.
He chose **Origin Grass Type**.
Immediately, the system chimed with excitement. **"Host's choice confirmed. Origin Grass Type has advanced to Divine Tree Origin."**
Lu Kai felt a surge of power, a deep, verdant energy flowing through him. He instinctively reached out, channeling this new affinity. Before him, the bare platinum structures of his sect began to transform. Divine Trees, each with different sizes and vibrant colors, sprouted from the metallic ground. Their branches were laden with countless fruits, shimmering with ethereal light. It was a breathtaking, living sanctuary.
He marveled at the sight. The initial thought was that this was not for combat. But then, a deeper understanding dawned upon him. His divine consciousness, now attuned to this new power, knew its potential. He could *create*.
Focusing his intent, Lu Kai began to manifest new skills directly from the Divine Tree Origin:
1. **Ten Thousand Razor Leafs:**
* *Description:* Summons ten thousand razor-sharp leaves and controls them with precision, capable of forming intricate patterns or devastating barrages.
2. **Branch of Slaughter:**
* *Description:* Manifests a powerful branch that can instantly kill multiple opponents at once, imbued with a massive killing intent and a wave of slaughter.
3. **Divine Tree Crafting:**
* *Description:* Allows the user to craft anything desired from the essence of the divine tree – weapons, furniture, tools, and more.
With a smile, Lu Kai began to utilize his new abilities. He crafted comfortable furniture for his sect's living quarters, ensuring they were more habitable than mere barracks. He then designated an area for a training ground, infusing it with a subtle power that would aid cultivators. Finally, he established a dedicated farming area, nurturing the divine fruits into a sustainable source of sustenance and perhaps even spiritual energy. His sect was no longer just a symbol; it was becoming functional.
Just as he was contemplating the next step in his sect's development, a new system message appeared, signaling a new directive:
**NEW TASK:** **Recruit 1st Disciple.**
**REWARDS:**
1. **Host's cultivation will remain Mortal permanently, but the host's power will be drastically increased by the System.**
2. **Divine Eyesight:** The host can see all material details, levels, and even common details like levels, names, and realms of cultivators.
Lu Kai considered the task and the rewards. The first reward was perplexing – permanent Mortal cultivation, yet increased power. It suggested a unique path of growth, perhaps focused on innate power rather than traditional cultivation realms. The second reward, Divine Eyesight, was invaluable, offering unparalleled perception in a world where hidden strengths and dangers were prevalent.
A new journey was indeed beginning, not just for him, but for the very existence of the Platinum Sect.
**To be continued...**