With the Day of Awakening ushering in a new wave of talent, Kai must rely on his knowledge and determination to carve his own path—before he's left behind.

Kai Liu has always known alchemy is his key to forging a path in the world of cultivators. Now, with the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet looming, his first true trial begins. Sponsored by the prestigious Verdant Lotus Sect, he steps into a realm where alchemy is more than just mixing herbs: it's a battlefield of wits, strategy, and mastery of the elements.

As he trains, Kai quickly learns that the road to power is littered with challenges. A dispute with the Silent Moon Sect forces him into a high-stakes wager. To win, he must push his alchemical skills to their limits, proving that strength isn't measured by brute force, lineage, or sect affiliation but by sheer ability and determination.

Among his rivals stands Jingyu Lian of the esteemed Lian clan, a prodigy whose arrogance is matched only by her formidable mastery of alchemy. But beneath her seemingly effortless skill and cold confidence, there are hints of an unspoken burden.

As Kai navigates the treacherous world of sect politics with his spirit beast companions, Tianyi and Windy, his ideals are put to the test. Every rival, friend, and challenge forces him to choose between ambition and integrity. In a realm in which power is often seized through shortcuts and schemes, can he stay true to the path he's built through hard work, perseverance, and earned strength?

The second volume of the hit LitRPG fantasy series—with more than a million views on Royal Road—now available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook!