Rise of the Devil's Soul

Dan, with a smirk playing on his lips, began to explain, "The Pavilion of the Celestial Echo is not just any place. It's a forbidden area, shrouded in mystery and steeped in ancient lore."

"You cannot simply walk into it. It's a place that demands respect, a place that requires one to prove their worth."

"One way to gain entry," he continued, "is through the imperial examination held every four years. This examination is not just a test; it's a rite of passage."

"It's a challenge that measures one's strength, wisdom, and character. Only the most elite students dare to undertake this challenge. Those who emerge victorious, who prove themselves to be the best among their peers, are granted the honor of meditating in the Pavilion of the Celestial Echo."

"Once every four years?" Xu Kai echoed, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise. The infrequency of the examination added another layer of complexity to his quest.

"Yes," Dan confirmed, nodding his head. "The imperial examination is held this year. You can try your luck by entering one of the prestigious academies and compete in that examination."

"I won't sugarcoat it - it's a tough road. I know you won't even be able to get into the academy, let alone give the examination. But you can try it though," he added, offering a glimmer of hope.

Intrigued by the prospect of a different path, Xu Kai asked, "And what is the second method?" He was eager to explore all possible avenues that could aid him in his quest.

Dan's eyes twinkled with amusement as he responded, "Well, the second method is quite different from the first. Instead of embarking on a rigorous journey of cultivation and competition, you could choose a more… leisurely path."

He paused for a moment, a playful grin spreading across his face. "You could choose to stay with me. I can provide you with food and shelter, the basic necessities you'll need. But life won't be just about survival. We can add a bit of excitement to our days. We can do gambling."

His laughter echoed in the room, a light-hearted sound that contrasted with the gravity of their earlier conversation. It was a suggestion that was as unexpected as it was intriguing.

Xu Kai couldn't help but chuckle at Dan's suggestion, his laughter echoing in the room. "The second method is certainly appealing, I won't deny that," he admitted, a playful glint in his eyes. "The idea of a life filled with food, shelter, and the thrill of gambling does have its charm."

However, his expression turned serious as he continued, "But I believe I'll stick to the first method. It may be more challenging, more demanding, but I can't shake off the feeling that this is the reason why I'm here. This journey, this quest for the Deity Hidden Stage, it feels like a path I'm meant to tread."

Dan, with his keen intellect and astute observation skills, was quick to discern the truth.

He realized that the person he was conversing with was not Wu Xie, as everyone believed.

Instead, he was interacting with a different individual, someone who had been thrust into this realm and into Wu Xie's identity. This revelation did not alarm Dan; instead, it piqued his interest.

Recognizing the unique situation and the potential for a fascinating friendship, Dan extended an offer of camaraderie to Xu Kai. He saw in Xu Kai not just a curious anomaly, but a fellow traveler navigating the complexities of their world.

After their enlightening discussion, they shared a meal together. The act of dining together, a simple yet profound gesture, further solidified their budding friendship.

As the day drew to a close, Dan offered Xu Kai a glimmer of hope for his quest.

He proposed that Xu Kai accompany him the following days to try his luck at gaining admission into one of the prestigious academies.

Despite the challenges that lay ahead, the prospect of learning and growing within the academy's hallowed halls was a beacon of hope for Xu Kai.

With their plans for the following day set and their minds filled with thoughts and reflections of their conversation, they retired for the night.

The journey to the Deity Hidden Stage was just beginning, and they were ready to embark on this exciting adventure.

As the sun peeked over the horizon, marking the start of a new day, Xu Kai was already up and ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.

He had made a decision, a decision that would change his life in this realm.

He was no longer Xu Kai; he had become Wu Xie. He was ready to challenge his fate, his sole goal being to return to his own universe. Until then, he resolved to live as Wu Xie.

The words of Guardian Mohe, which had once seemed cryptic and confusing, were now beginning to make sense.

After meeting Dan, he told him that his 'talent core' was broken, which was preventing him from increasing his rank. To repair it, he needed to consume the 'Talent Core Restoration Elixir'.

Upon hearing this, Dan said, "This Elixir is not something you can find at the local market. It can only be found in the depths of the ocean. But don't worry, I'll ask my servants to see if they can find this elusive elixir for you."

Intrigued by the rules and knowledge of the academies here, Wu Xie asked Dan for some books.

Dan, with a twinkle in his eye, handed him a mountain of books, saying, "Here you go, a light bit of reading for you!" The sight of the towering stack of books was enough to make anyone's head spin.

And so, armed with a mountain of books and a newfound resolve, Wu Xie began his journey in this strange new world.