“A screen? Seriously?” He gawked, half-expecting an experience bar to pop up like in those games he used to play on his phone. If his old life had been this simple, he would’ve maxed out his cultivation level between shifts at the office.

  "This screen is unique to you," the Overseer said, her tone shifting to one of explanation. "It's part of the PINA method. You see, this isn't just a cultivation method; it's a tailored approach designed to help you navigate the challenges ahead, particularly since, as mentioned, you lack the natural aptitude for traditional cultivation." She gave him a pointed look. "This method provided a bridge—a way to connect you to something beyond the ordinary, bypassing those limitations. Though I imagine the explanations from earlier are fading from your mind." Her gaze softened slightly as she added, "That's because your simple mortal consciousness struggled to grasp the scope of it all."

  Despite the absurdity, a thrill of excitement surged through him. His mind, still reeling from his new situation, grasped upon the Overseer's mention of his 'simple mortal consciousness,' couldn't help but gripe at the phrase.

  Simple? Mortal? He had always prided himself on being quick-witted, even if life hadn't dealt him the best cards. Still, the clarity of it all—the prospect of a path to power, a tangible direction—was tantalizing. He had to admit, there was a part of him that almost found comfort in this strange cultivation method.

  “Ok, so, I’ve got this cultivation method, right? But why does it say mid-mortal tier? You said it was peak heaven tier.”

  The Overseer clearly enjoyed the reaction her words had provoked. “There are several tiers of cultivation methods, each representing the depth of their power and difficulty to master," the Overseer explained, her tone shifting to that of a teacher.

  "The most basic tier is Mortal, followed by Profound, and then Earth. These three form the foundation upon which all cultivators begin their journey. But I must tell you, few in this area have access to anything beyond these scraps. To possess a potential Heaven-tier method like the PINA is exceedingly rare and something that most can only dream of. Consider yourself fortunate, Tian Hao, even if you do not yet have the capacity to wield its full promise. Did you truly believe your frail mortal vessel could handle the raw power of a peak heaven-tier technique in its current state?"

  Tian Hao quipped quickly, "So if I tried the Heaven-tier right now, I'd end up bleeding from all nine orifices or exploding into a bloody firework display? Yeah, I think I'll stick to baby steps—sounds less messy." He sighed, then added, "Alright, alright, tell me more about this Body Refining business."

  "Body Refining involves nine levels, each focusing on a different part of the body," the Overseer continued. "Typically, cultivators strengthen the Skin, Bone, Muscle, Tendons, Marrow, Organs, Blood, Meridians, and finally, Essence. Each level purges impurities and fortifies that part of the body, pushing the limits of what a mortal vessel can withstand."

  "Skin, Bone, Muscle..." Tian Hao repeated, scrunching his face as if trying to imagine it. "That sounds painful."

  "It is," she confirmed with a wry smile. "Traditional Body Refining is excruciating, and the risks are high. Many cultivators fail or become crippled attempting to force their bodies through the harsh processes needed to refine each level."

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  Tian Hao shivered slightly. "So, where do I fit into all this?"

  The Overseer's eyes gleamed with amusement. "Due to my guidance, the PINA method helps you bypass those difficulties. It streamlines the process, minimizing the unfortunate side effects that most cultivators face. You won't need to suffer through the agonizing, often dangerous, purging of impurities that others endure. Instead, your cultivation will be fueled by pleasure, making your body stronger as you experience and embrace joy."

  Tian Hao raised an eyebrow. "So, I get all the benefits without the pain?"

  "Not entirely without pain," the Overseer corrected, her smile sly. "There will still be challenges, but the nature of your cultivation is different. Your path is one of indulgence, but it requires discipline. Unlike others, your focus will be on cultivating through positive experiences rather than hardship alone."

  "Sounds like cheating," Tian Hao muttered, though he couldn't help the smile tugging at his lips.

  The Overseer chuckled softly. "Think of it as an alternative route—one not available to most. Just remember, there are no shortcuts to true power. Every pleasure must be tempered with purpose, every indulgence balanced with focus. Only then will you advance."

  Tian Hao couldn't resist adding, "So basically, I'm the chosen one... because I'm lazy? Seems like fate's finally on my side."

  She raised an eyebrow, her amusement evident in her tone. "Fate takes no sides, Tian Hao. Karma maintains balance, and every action has its consequence. Silly little Hao."

  Tian Hao groaned, his mind buzzing with the influx of information, though there was a spark of amusement in his eyes. “Fair enough, Big Sister System.” The words slipped out before he could stop them, and he immediately regretted his choice. Would a celestial being like her tolerate such familiarity?

  To his surprise, the Celestial Guidance Overseer’s smile only deepened, her expression softening as though humoring him. “Oh? Big Sister System now, is it?” Her tone was teasing, almost indulgent. “Is that how you plan to curry favor with me, little Hao?”

  Sensing a rare opportunity, Tian Hao decided to double down on his flattery, though he suspected she could see right through him. “Of course, Big Sister System! Your wisdom and beauty are unmatched. Surely, with your guidance, I will become the greatest cultivator ever known. I mean, who wouldn’t, with someone as radiant and majestic as you leading the way?” He added a wink for good measure, though it lacked any real charm, his awkwardness painfully evident.

  The Overseer raised a sculpted eyebrow. “Is that so?” she mused, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Your efforts at flattery are…admirable, if somewhat crude. You’ll need to do much better if you hope to win my favor.”

  Undeterred by her obvious mockery, Tian Hao pressed on, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Oh, Big Sister System, how could I possibly do better? You shine like the stars themselves! I’m merely basking in your brilliance.”

  The Overseer’s laughter rang through the chamber, light and melodic, as her ethereal form shimmered with energy. “You certainly are persistent,” she remarked, shaking her head in mock exasperation. “But flattery alone won’t get you very far with me. You’ll need to prove yourself through your actions, not just your words.”

  Tian Hao’s smirk softened into a genuine smile. “Alright, alright, I’ll try to live up to your expectations.” He glanced around the disheveled room once more, the remnants of his predecessor’s indulgent life still scattered around him. “I’ve got to admit, this is all a lot to take in.”

  The Overseer nodded, her expression turning serious once more. “Your journey has only just begun, Tian Hao. The path ahead is filled with challenges, but also with great potential. Cultivate wisely, and you may find yourself wielding a power beyond your wildest dreams.”

  With that, her form began to shimmer, fading slowly into a cascade of light. “I’ll be watching, little Tian Hao. Try not to disappoint.”

  As the last traces of her presence dissolved into the air, Tian Hao let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. His heart pounded excitement and trepidation. Despite the opulence, a part of him still clung to the weariness of his old life, the drudgery of late-night shifts and instant noodles. How could this world of silks and riches truly be his?

  “I’ll get the hang of this,” he muttered to himself, his voice filled with determination. “Eventually.”

  20/11/24 - Conversational fixes