After pulling myself out of my thoughts, I spoke in an even, measured tone.
"None, I am on the verge of breaking through to Level 50. At minimum, it will take a week; at most, a month. During this period, I want you to secure a noble identity and territory within the Heaven Dou Empire—under your own name. At the same time, take control of a low-level noble with land in the Star Luo Empire. I want influence in both empires before the next stage of my plan begins."
None bowed his head. "Understood, Master. With my Level 54 Soul King cultivation and Ghost Rope martial spirit, acquiring a noble title and territory in the Heaven Dou Empire will be effortless. At thirty years old, I will not draw unnecessary suspicion."
He paused before continuing, his voice lowering slightly. "The Star Luo Empire will be more troublesome. You currently have only fourteen subordinates, including me, with sufficient cultivation to operate independently. I propose withdrawing Lian from the Diamond Elephant Sect. He has a Level 47 Soul Sect cultivation and an Illusion Eyes martial spirit—ideal for control and manipulation. With his assistance, the Star Luo operation can be completed."
I considered his words briefly. Lian had already been embedded within the Diamond Elephant Sect for six months. By now, every secret worth knowing should already be in my hands.
"Approved," I said coldly. "Use whatever methods you deem necessary. Results matter more than process."
None acknowledged the order and vanished into the shadows.
Almost immediately afterward, Rin burst into the room, clutching a bag of snacks as if it were priceless treasure. None had already concealed himself before she crossed the threshold.
I looked at her and sighed softly. "Rin, are you eating snacks again?" My voice was calm, almost indulgent. "Didn't I tell you not to eat things bought outside when you're hungry? I've already prepared better snacks at home."
Rin froze. Her face flushed crimson as she tried to hide the snacks behind her back.
"I-I'm sorry, Brother," she said obediently. "I didn't want to eat them, but my friends made me buy some. They said they tasted good. I won't do it again."
On the surface, she looked pitiful and remorseful.
Inside, however—
Hehehe~ got caught again.
But big brother is too soft. If I act cute enough, he'll definitely let it go.
Worst case? Extra training tomorrow.
Hmph! I'll just eat more today to stock up on energy.
Training doubles? Then I'll play triples today!
As she spoke, Anne silently handed me a small notebook. I accepted it without changing my expression and flipped through the pages.
Exactly as expected.
Every detail was recorded clearly.
I closed the notebook and looked at Rin with a gentle smile. To her, that smile felt far more terrifying than a scowl.
"So," I said softly, "you listened to those children, bought snacks for them—and secretly kept some for yourself."
Rin stiffened.
"I won't accept such an obvious lie," I continued calmly. "Starting tomorrow, you'll train with me at double intensity for one week."
Her mind went completely blank.
Eh?
How does he know EVERYTHING?
Big brother… is he secretly reading my mind?!
That's illegal! Absolutely illegal!
Before she could protest, my tone softened.
"But today, we'll let it go," I added. "We're going to Soto City."
Her eyes immediately lit up.
I continued, "I'm close to breaking through to Level 50. The Star Dou Great Forest is near Soto City, which will make it easier to hunt a suitable soul beast afterward."
Rin nearly bounced on her feet.
Level 50 at fifteen…
Big brother is definitely not human.
No, wait—he's mine!
We headed toward the carriage stables together. After a brief negotiation, we boarded a carriage bound for Soto City. The journey would take roughly half a month.
During that time, I would refine Rin's training—and quietly finalize my breakthrough.
None had already departed to execute my orders. By now, Lian should have received his instructions as well. Only Anne remained at my side, her Level 43 cultivation and Shadow martial spirit perfectly suited for protection and surveillance.
A week passed swiftly.
Rin advanced to Level 15, officially becoming a Soul Master. Her progress was terrifyingly fast, aided by her Golden Flame Eagle martial spirit and the Clear Sky environment, which functioned like a natural mimic training ground.
As for me—
I stood at the threshold of Level 50.
The world was already moving according to my design.
All that remained was to take the final step.