Rise of the Ultimate Profit System

Ed stood in silence, the weight of Lucian's words pressing heavily upon him. The system notification still flickered in his vision, demanding a decision. Accept or Reject Lucian's Offer.

Lucian remained patient, his gaze unwavering. "You're hesitating. That's good. Means you're thinking. But let me make it easier for you." He took a slow step forward. "In the coming days, sects and martial organizations will rise. Those without backing will be swallowed whole. Do you really think you can climb to the top alone?"

Ed's fists clenched. The system had given him power, but he knew better than to assume he was invincible. He had barely started scratching the surface of this new world's potential.

"What exactly do you want from me?" Ed finally asked, his voice firm but cautious.

Lucian smiled. "Loyalty is a heavy word, so I won't ask for that. Consider it… a partnership. You get resources, training, information. In return, you help when called upon. A fair deal, wouldn't you say?"

Ed took a deep breath. A partnership. Not servitude. He could still act on his own, still pursue his goals. But was he ready to tie himself to an unknown faction?

[System Notification: You have 60 seconds to make a decision.]

His heart pounded. The system was forcing urgency, but Ed refused to be rushed. He replayed everything in his head—his struggles, his ambitions, his thirst for power. He needed to grow stronger, and an opportunity like this wasn't easy to come by.

He exhaled sharply. "Fine. I'll listen. But the moment I sense something off, I'm out."

Lucian chuckled. "Wise choice."

[Quest Completed: Choice of Destiny] Rewards: +2 Strength, +2 Speed, New Skill Unlocked: Shadow Evasion

A rush of energy surged through Ed's body, his muscles tensing before relaxing with newfound agility. A new skill, Shadow Evasion—the ability to move with enhanced speed, blurring his presence momentarily.

Lucian's eyes gleamed. "Oh? Seems your system is quite generous. Interesting."

Ed narrowed his eyes. "You know about my system?"

Lucian's smirk deepened. "I know a lot more than you think."

Before Ed could press further, the ground suddenly trembled. A distant explosion echoed through the city, and the faint sound of panicked screams filled the air.

Lucian's expression darkened. "Looks like our conversation is getting cut short."

Ed turned toward the warehouse entrance, his body already moving on instinct. He didn't know what awaited him outside, but one thing was clear—the world was changing faster than he had imagined.

And he needed to be ready.

The two stepped out onto the streets, greeted by a scene of chaos. Buildings smoldered, and the sky was illuminated by flickering flames from a recent explosion. People ran in terror as unknown figures clad in dark robes clashed with city defenders.

"What the hell is going on?" Ed muttered, his fists tightening.

Lucian exhaled, scanning the battlefield with practiced ease. "This is what I meant. Power struggles are starting. Some sects aren't waiting for the government to dissolve—they're forcing the issue."

A group of fighters rushed toward them, eyes glowing with cultivation energy. One of them, a burly man with a serrated blade, pointed at Ed. "That's the kid from earlier! He's gotten stronger—take him down before he becomes a problem!"

Ed barely had time to react before they charged. His instincts kicked in, and his new skill, Shadow Evasion, activated on reflex. The world blurred around him as he sidestepped the first attacker with supernatural speed.

Ed countered with a Pressure Point Strike, slamming his palm into the man's shoulder. The attacker froze, his muscles locking up before he crumpled to the ground.

Lucian smirked. "Impressive. But let's see how you handle more."

Three more enemies lunged at once. Ed ducked under a swinging sword, delivering a devastating uppercut that sent one man sprawling. Another tried to grapple him, but he twisted free and landed a precise kick to his knee, shattering it instantly.

The last attacker hesitated, eyes flickering with uncertainty. Ed smirked. "Still wanna try your luck?"

Before the man could answer, a booming voice cut through the battlefield. "ENOUGH!"

The ground trembled again, and a massive figure descended from above, landing with a heavy thud. His presence was suffocating, his aura a deep crimson that radiated sheer dominance.

Lucian's eyes narrowed. "Well, that's inconvenient."

Ed gulped. He didn't need the system to tell him—this was a real threat.

A true cultivator had arrived.