

Still Learning To Live As A Cultivator
Leon, a timid alchemist, finds himself entangled in a world of cultivation, beasts, and powerful companions. Reborn with fragmented memories and an unusual 'Star body' root, he navigates the prestigious Ascending Mountain Institute. But when his overbearing, meat-loving Dao Companion, Jin Li, drags him into the wider world, Leon must confront a society far more complex than his quiet studies. Will his newfound talents and shy demeanor be enough to survive the intrigues, rivalries, and dangers that lurk beyond the institute walls, especially with Jin Li's penchant for attracting trouble?The biting cold of an early winter morning seeped into Leon's small room, a stark reminder that the Ascending Mountain Institute was about to close for its six-week break. He stretched, a broad yawn escaping him as he fumbled for his spectacles on the stool beside his bed. The world, once a blurry painting, snapped into sharp focus as the lenses settled on his nose.
A deep, resonant voice drifted from the large, curtained bed behind him. "Anyone would think that you wished to seduce this Lord once more." Leon blushed, turning to see Jin Li, his handsome Dao Companion, brushing aside the heavy curtains, his phoenix eyes sweeping over Leon's still-pale form. The memories of their vigorous night brought a fresh wave of heat to Leon's cheeks.
"Would you l-like some t-tea?" Leon stammered, quickly pulling on his inner robes, feeling like a small rabbit before a wolf. Jin Li merely smirked, a sound of agreement rumbling in his chest as he followed Leon into the main room of their newly renovated courtyard home. The iron stove, a gift from the Headmaster, already hummed with warmth as Leon set about preparing Jin Li's medicinal tea and rice porridge.
