I emerged from my cultivation chamber after thirteen days of intense seclusion, feeling both powerful and frustrated. My dark energy had grown substantially, but I'd hit a stubborn bottleneck at Foundation Building Stage 6.
"Damn it," I muttered, splashing cold water on my face.
Despite consuming rare spiritual herbs and pushing my limits, Stage 7 remained just out of reach. Still, I couldn't deny the new abilities I'd gained. My vision had developed strangely—I could now see through solid objects when I concentrated, like having X-ray vision from those old comic books.
I tested it by staring at the wall separating my chamber from the hallway. After focusing for a moment, the solid surface became transparent, revealing Eamon pacing outside.
"Interesting," I said to myself, releasing the technique.
When I opened the door, Eamon jumped.
"Young Master! You've finally emerged."
"Any updates while I was secluded?" I asked, stretching my stiff muscles.
