Xiao Wei recalled the memories of his previous life, where he was once the weakest hunter and other hunter comment him in the same way until the constellation Lord Of The Netherworld give him the power to become the strongest.
Despite 14-year-old, Xiao Wei current Cultivation base, having only reached the Third Layer Of Martial Apprentice Realm, it put him at a significant disadvantage compared to other young generation of Xiao Clan.
Even the weakest people in the training hall, a boy of similar age as Xiao Wei, had already attained the Sixth Layer Of Martial Apprentice Realm. That's why the young generation of Xiao Clan took great pleasure in exploiting his weakness, constantly belittling and bullying him whenever the opportunity arose.
Xiao Wei clenched his fists, the urge to fight back surging within him. But he restrained himself, knowing that engaging in a physical confrontation would only make him get beaten. Instead, he focused on maintaining an air of calm composure, as he remembered his past life where he was ridiculed like the same way before he became the strongest.
In this world, the path of Cultivation was divided into ten Martial Realms, each representing a milestone in a Cultivator's journey towards immortality.
From lowest to highest, the Realms were known as - Martial Apprentice, Martial Master, Martial Grandmaster, Martial Saint, Martial King, Martial Ancestor, Martial Monarch, Martial Supreme, Martial Sage, Martial Emperor. Each Martial Realm was further subdivided into nine layers, the ninth layer the highest and the first layer the lowest.
Each Realm represented a significant leap in power, with the lower realms serving as foundation. The journey of Cultivation is long and arduous, requiring dedication, perseverance and an insatiable thirst for growth.
"Stop laughing!"Elder Xu commanded as soon as he appered, bringing silence to the room immediately.
Elder Xu stepped forward, his presence filling the space as he approached. His sharp gaze rested on Xiao Wei, conveying a clear message of disappointment.
"Xiao Wei, stop wasting time and get to your positions for practice"Elder Xu ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.
"Yes, Elder Xu"Xiao Wei said respectfully and quickly complied, acknowledging the reprimand without resistance.
Because Elder Xu is Xu Clan Third Elder and he is in the First Layer of Martial Grandmaster Realm.
Taking a deep breath, he moved to the spot which was behind everyone, readying himself for the demanding training session ahead under the watchful eye of the elder.
Elder Xu cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention.
"From now on, everyone will start mastering the 'Tiger Claw' technique, a High Tier Mortal Grade Martial Technique unique to our esteemed Xiao Clan. It requires precision, agility, and unyielding spirit to execute correctly."Elder Xu announced, his voice commanding respect.
Elder Xu paused for a moment, surveying the members with an air of authority.
"First, observe closely as I demonstrate the technique. Once you've grasped the fundamentals, we'll begin your training."Elder Xu added.
With a deep breath, Elder Xu assumed a battle-ready stance before he thrust his hand forward, each finger splayed into a deadly claw formation.
As he extended his arm, a faint afterimage of a majestic tiger coalesced around his fist. The illusionary tiger's claws gleamed with an ethereal light, as if forged from pure energy. Elder Xu's actual hand remained hidden, blending seamlessly with the tiger's paw.
As Elder Xu slammed his tiger-clawed fist into the empty air, the impact sent shockwaves rippling outward, causing the surrounding air crackled with energy. Even though the claw didn't hit anything, the sound of the strike echoed through the training hall, a resounding testament to the technique's raw power.
Elder Xu gave a nod, returning to a relaxed posture as he observed the trainees intently.
"Now, begin practicing the Tiger Claw technique"Elder Xu instructed, his voice carrying a note of expectation.
One by one, the young Cultivators launched themselves into the complex sequence of movements, striving to mimic Elder Xu's flawless demonstration, trying to expand their fingers into claws similar to tiger. They practiced constantly, repeating the same movement: first stretch out their palms, then slowly spread their fingers, and finally closed their fingers at an extremely fast speed to form a pair of sharp-edged tiger claws.
As the other clan members busied themselves with their forms and practicing, Xiao Wei stood transfixed at the end of the training area. His eyes were glued to the mesmerizing display unfolding before him.
He had never seen anything like this in his previous world. Even though the claw attack was on midair, Xiao Wei can guess from it's prowess that if Elder Xu use this claw attack on his previous body which was far stronger than this youth body, he can still ended his life instantly.
Fascination warred with trepidation within Xiao Wei as he yearned to become stronger.
Suddenly, a voice interrupted the peaceful atmosphere of the training hall.
"Hahaha... look, it seems like Loser Wei frozen in awe. I bet this is the first time he's ever laid eyes on a real High Tier Mortal Grade Martial Technique"a boy mocked, clearly enjoying Xiao Wei's stunned expression.
The mocking words hung heavy in the air, punctuated by the sound of chuckles from nearby clan members who were quick to join in on the ridicule aimed at Xiao Wei.
In this world, Martial Techniques are classified into five main grades, starting from lowest to highest - Mortal, Human, Profound, Earth and Heaven. These grades are further broken down into three subcategories: Low tier, Middle tier and High tier.
The higher the grade of the martial technique the higher it's value. The Xiao Clan, while respected in Mo City, only owns two exceptional Human Grade Martial Techniques, which are exclusively taught to the Clan Elders. Consequently, a High Tier Mortal Grade technique like the Tiger Claw is highly sought after by the younger generation, serving as a valuable resource in their Cultivation journey.
Suddenly, another young boy spoke up, his tone dripping with disdain.