Back at the Royal Academy, Anthony entered his training room and sealed the doors.
"Master, the Hundred Sects Assembly is more important than I thought," Anthony said, sitting cross-legged. "If the Ancient Ruins are really your old dwelling, then there must be things there that can help me break through to the next realm."
"Yes," Aetherion replied. "In my treasury, there is the 'Cloud Ascension Pill'. Just one pill can help you jump three levels directly. But Anthony, you must be careful. The Zhao Clan is strong. Their Patriarch is a True Origin Realm expert."
"I know. But strength is earned, not given."
Anthony opened the storage ring. Thousands of Spirit Stones appeared, floating around him like stars.
"Now, let's refine these resources. I must reach the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment before the assembly starts!"
Anthony activated the "Cosmic Absorption Art".
Hum!
The Spirit Stones began to crumble into fine dust, turning into pure energy that rushed into Anthony's body. His meridians, which had been tempered by the Millennium Soul, were wide like rivers. The energy flowed smoothly, washing his bones and organs.
Day and night passed. Anthony didn't stop. He ate high-grade pills when hungry, and drank spring water when thirsty. His cultivation rose steadily.
Boom!
On the fifth day, a muffled sound echoed from inside his body. Anthony's aura surged wildly, then stabilized.
"Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment... achieved!" Anthony opened his eyes, which flashed with lightning. His power had doubled!