Today's events provided a valuable dataset. The Heavenly Book's utility extended beyond its stated function of deduction. Its passive energy absorption, for instance, was a significant force multiplier.
He analyzed the benefits: Even pre-cultivation, its absorption rate surpassed that of an average Bitter Sea cultivator. Once he began formal cultivation and his bodily channels widened, the throughput would increase. This constant, automated infusion of essence provided a continuous tempering effect, artificially elevating his physical foundation—a substantial head start.
Its other functions remained unexplored due to his current ignorance. But the core equation was clear: Automated energy harvesting + accelerated comprehension = optimized cultivation efficiency. This combination would allow for rapid advancement with reduced external resource dependency, a strategic advantage of immense value.
"Chong'er, finalize his tier assignment immediately," Elder Zhang urged, his tone urgent.
Securing the asset on Rising Sun Island was not a guarantee. The political calculus of the Yao Guang Holy Land's twelve factions was complex. While Rising Sun Island and Dragon Head Peak were relative peers, two factions existed on another level entirely: the reigning Holy Lord's lineage and the faction that had produced the current Holy Son. If either intervened, Rising Sun Island would likely be forced to concede.
Li Yao understood the subtext: this was a race against bureaucratic escalation. The priority was to create a fait accompli.
Zhang Chong acted with decisive efficiency. He trusted his father's assessment, and Li Yao's demonstrated "affinity"—the visible vortex of essence swirling into him—was proof enough. He produced a white jade token, imprinted it with a wisp of Li Yao's aura, and finalized his status: Elite Disciple.
The process was remarkably streamlined. Li Yao received the jade token, a slight weight in his hand. He felt no pride, only a note on institutional efficiency when motivated by high-value transactions.
"Take him to the inner sanctum. I must return to my post," Elder Zhang instructed before departing in a flash of light.
Zhang Chong acknowledged. With the formalities complete, physically securing Li Yao within their core territory was the final, defensive move.
Li Yao observed their interaction, adding 'father-son dynamic within faction leadership' to his growing model of Holy Land internal politics. This clarified Elder Zhang's earlier risk-taking.
Now alone with Li Yao, Zhang Chong's authoritative demeanor softened into strategic benevolence. Respect was a function of projected future value. As long as Li Yao's trajectory held, this goodwill would remain a constant.
Divine light enveloped them again, this time moving at a measured pace suitable for a mortal passenger.
Rising Sun Divine Island was a colossal landmass suspended in the sky. As they traversed it, Li Yao conducted an environmental scan. The flora glowed with internal energy; the air was thick with purified essence. The disciples they passed bowed to Zhang Chong, their glances at Li Yao not of welcome, but of assessive envy—they recognized a high-priority investment.
The deeper they went, the richer the environment grew. The essence was not just denser but of a higher grade. Li Yao's body responded positively—the Heavenly Book's filtration system operating at peak efficiency—providing a tangible boost to his physical parameters. He noted the qualitative difference; this was premium cultivation real estate.
During the journey, Li Yao judged the moment appropriate to advance his primary objective. "Grandmaster Zhang, now that procedures are settled, when may I receive the cultivation scripture?"
His directness was permissible, a calculated use of his current "genius" social credit. As anticipated, Zhang Chong was not offended.
"Once you are presented to your master, the Yao Guang Scripture will be imparted," he replied patiently. His attitude was a direct reflection of Li Yao's perceived value—a filter of utility, not affection.
Zhang Chong observed Li Yao's bodily refinement from the high-grade essence with immense satisfaction. His assessment solidified: within the Holy Land's younger generation, only the Holy Son demonstrably surpassed this level of innate talent; the Holy Maiden might be comparable. He was now fully committed to this investment.
For Li Yao, the sights, the status, and the approval were secondary. The path was finally clearing. The scripture was within reach. Soon, the Heavenly Book would have its first true input, and his solitary, optimized cultivation could truly begin.