The next morning, I returned to Elder Wu's pavilion as instructed.
Without much ceremony, Elder Wu handed me a worn jade slip. Its surface was faintly cracked, but the intricate patterns etched into it still pulsed with a lingering, ancient aura.
"This is the Flowing Shadow Step," he said, his voice calm but firm. "It's a foundational movement technique. Learn it well—it will save your life in the coming battles and will help you navigate the Gravity Tower."
I carefully accepted the jade slip, feeling its faint warmth in my palm.
Elder Wu continued, "This technique emphasizes speed, flexibility, and seamless movement. Most disciples neglect footwork, but those who master it can dominate even opponents in higher realms."
His sharp gaze bore into me. "Also, I am giving you this—Stone Marrow Tempering Method. It will fortify your body and allow you to withstand the Gravity Tower's crushing force."
"The Gravity Tower isn't a simple training ground. Each floor doubles the pressure on your body. Most outer sect disciples can't pass the third or fourth floor. I expect you to go higher."
I bowed deeply. "Thank you, Elder Wu. I won't disappoint you."
"Go. Prepare well. I will be watching."
Back in my courtyard, I immediately began training.
The Flowing Shadow Step was tricky. My movements were rigid at first, clumsy and imprecise. I kept tripping over my own feet, but with each repetition, my steps slowly began to flow.
When I turned to the Stone Marrow Tempering Method, I sat cross-legged and followed the intricate breathing pattern it required. A searing warmth filled my bones, as though a fire had been lit deep within me.
But then—something unexpected happened.
As I practiced both techniques, the Heaven Reversion Law began to stir on its own.
Without warning, a faint suction force emerged from my very bones. I could feel it—my core cultivation method was absorbing the two techniques. The jade slips in my hands disintegrated into dust, completely consumed.
But they weren't transformed.
Their essence had merged directly into the Heaven Reversion Law itself.
I immediately noticed the difference when I resumed practicing the Heaven Reversion Law. My footwork subtly carried the lightness and flow of the Flowing Shadow Step. When I cycled my energy, I could faintly sense traces of the marrow-honing effects of the Stone Marrow Tempering Method supporting my body.
They weren't separate techniques anymore.
They had become part of the Heaven Reversion Law's foundation.
The movement technique enhanced my speed within the Heaven Reversion Law, while the marrow method reinforced my body's structure as I practiced it. It was as if the law had grown stronger, more refined, subtly evolving from within.
It seemed the Heaven Reversion Law had a hidden ability:
Any technique related to core body refining could be absorbed to improve the law itself.
But only body refinement arts—external techniques like fist styles or Qi arts would not be absorbed.
I couldn't help but wonder—what would happen if I continued feeding it more?
Would the Heaven Reversion Law eventually evolve into something beyond comprehension?
---
For the next few days, I dedicated myself to mastering this improved Heaven Reversion Law. My steps became smoother. My body tougher. My foundation… steadier.
When I wasn't training, I gathered supplies for the Gravity Tower challenge—simple recovery pills, light rations, and listened carefully to the whispers of other disciples.
Some bragged about conquering the fourth floor. Others admitted they could barely handle the second.
I clenched my fists.
I would climb higher. I had to.
The Heaven Reversion Law wasn't just a path now—it was alive, growing alongside me.