GRAND RECEPTION.

Reece's decision to leave his mountain cave and join the Jao sect marked a new chapter in his journey as a cultivator. The sect had sent a select guard and an entourage of disciples to escort him to their prestigious institution, recognizing his immense potential and the wisdom he could bring to their ranks.

As Reece arrived at the Jao sect, he was met with a grand reception. The Supreme sect's elder, Elder Xian, personally welcomed him and expressed his gratitude for Reece's decision to join their ranks. The disciples who had been selected to accompany Reece marveled at the majestic architecture and profound cultivation resources within the sect.

The disciples chosen to accompany Reece to the Jao sect were in awe as they arrived at the sect's grand compound. The majestic architecture of the sect was unlike anything they had ever seen. Towering pagodas with intricate carvings reached into the sky, and serene gardens filled with exotic flowers and rare herbs spread out in every direction.

The main hall, where important sect meetings and ceremonies were held, was a breathtaking structure adorned with precious gems and ornate tapestries that depicted the sect's history and accomplishments. The disciples couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence as they stepped onto the polished marble floors, their footsteps echoing through the hall.

As they explored the sect, they discovered vast libraries filled with ancient scrolls and tomes of profound wisdom, detailing various cultivation techniques, spells, and the sect's unique traditions. The scent of incense wafted through the air as they passed by meditation chambers where senior disciples and elders deepened their understanding of the Tao.

The cultivation resources were equally impressive. The sect had sprawling training grounds where disciples practiced their martial arts and honed their skills. Elemental ponds and forests with spiritual creatures provided opportunities for practical training and cultivation. The disciples marveled at the abundance of rare herbs and mystical stones that could aid them in their journey to enlightenment.

Reece's arrival at the sect had not only attracted attention due to his extraordinary abilities but had also brought a sense of excitement and curiosity among the disciples. They were eager to learn from him, and his willingness to share his knowledge fostered a sense of camaraderie among the group.

Under the guidance of Sect leader and the elders of the Jao sect, the disciples began their training in earnest. They absorbed the teachings of the sect while integrating Reece's unique insights and experiences into their cultivation. With each passing day, their skills and understanding of the cultivation deepened, the disciples grew stronger.

As they continued to explore the profound cultivation resources of the Jao sect, the disciples found themselves on a path of growth and discovery, with the potential to achieve great heights in their cultivation journey. The majestic beauty and rich heritage of the sect served as a constant reminder of the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead, inspiring them to reach for greatness in the world of cultivation.

However, as Reece began his training and settled into life at the Jao sect, he encountered a sect senior disciple named Lian, who was known for his remarkable talents and a reputation for being somewhat haughty and had been trying to get Lucy to like him. Lian had achieved great feats and was held in high regard by the sect elders.

One day, as Reece was practicing his cultivation techniques in a secluded area, Lian approached him with a challenging glare. "You're the newcomer everyone's talking about, aren't you?" he said, his tone laced with arrogance. "I've heard you've achieved some impressive feats. Let's see if you can match up to the standards of the Jao sect."

Reece, never one to seek confrontation, replied calmly, "I have come here to learn and cultivate in harmony with my fellow disciples, not to challenge or compete with anyone."

Lian, however, was determined to prove his superiority. With a wave of his hand, he summoned a swirling vortex of fire elemental energy, intending to test Reece's skills. Reece, recognizing the potential for a clash, reluctantly engaged. He summoned the power of the first Tao phase which was the body refining, and the two cultivators clashed in a whirlwind of energy and precision.

Their battle was fierce and intense, drawing the attention of other disciples and elders who gathered to witness the spectacle. Reece's abilities, honed through his arduous journey and battle with the demon king, held his own against Lian's impressive prowess. The clash continued for what seemed like hours, with neither willing to yield.

In the end, the two cultivators were evenly matched, their energy spent. Elder Xian, who had been observing the battle, stepped forward and spoke in a commanding voice, "Enough! We are a sect of harmony and unity. Reece has shown great skill and humility in joining our sect. Lian, it is your duty to support and guide our new disciple, not to challenge him."

Lian, begrudgingly accepting the elder's words, bowed respectfully and withdrew, his pride somewhat wounded. Reece, on the other hand, felt relieved that the conflict had been resolved peacefully.

As time passed, Reece continued to cultivate and share some new experiences with Lucy and the other disciples.

On the other hand, Lian tried to provoke Reece on every time to challenge him, he wanted to prove that he was superior to Reece who was just a country hill Billy from the mountains. He could stand to see Lucy approach Reece with affection and how she fawned over him and the fact that he was a nascent realm cultivator like he was.

In order to finally cultivate through the body refining stage Reece needed to hunt down more demon beats and refine their core to advance to the second phase of the Tao soul.