As the Deputy Overseer, Victor Shaw had the authority to distribute Bloodline Potions. He wasn't particularly opposed to giving one to Ryan Carter.

  Though Ryan hadn't shown clear signs of bloodline awakening, he'd managed to kill a giant horned earthworm—this feat alone was proof of impressive potential. Victor trusted his own judgment. More importantly, it was Captain Harris's suggestion. Harris had always been close friends with Ryan's father, Hank Carter, and Victor intended to do Harris this favor.

  But just as Victor prepared to agree, a cold voice interrupted sharply: "Deputy Overseer, I object!"

  In the settlement, bloodline warriors had special status. Under normal circumstances, few dared openly oppose their suggestions—especially in public. Yet now, someone boldly did exactly that.

  Ryan glanced toward the speaker instinctively. It was a young man with a cold expression—Aaron Hale. Dressed in a pristine white combat uniform, Aaron stared directly at Deputy Overseer Victor, his gaze indifferent yet firm.

  Captain Harris frowned deeply. "Aaron, you've already received a Bloodline Potion this year—more than enough to awaken your bloodline. What exactly are you objecting to?"

  "Our settlement has limited Bloodline Potions," Aaron responded icily. "They should be reserved for those who truly deserve them—not wasted on someone who can barely awaken!" He pointed directly at Ryan, adding sharply, "Captain Harris, please don't let personal feelings cloud your judgment and waste precious resources!"

  Harris's face darkened immediately, ready to argue back, but Deputy Overseer Victor raised a calming hand. "That's enough. Let's postpone discussing the Bloodline Potion. Ryan managed to kill a giant horned earthworm, proving he's at least a high-level warrior. From now on, he'll be treated accordingly."

  Victor paused, glancing meaningfully toward Harris. "Additionally, reward him with another beast crystal."

  Captain Harris understood Victor's silent signal—no further argument. Though frustrated, he had no choice but to comply. But how could a mere beast crystal compare to a precious Bloodline Potion?

  "Thank the Deputy Overseer, Ryan," Harris instructed stiffly, suppressing his dissatisfaction.

  Yet Ryan was genuinely pleased. Beast crystals were exactly what he needed most. Gratefully, he bowed, "Thank you, Deputy Overseer!"

  Victor smiled kindly, handing Ryan a sandy-colored beast crystal glowing faintly. "You earned this, kid. Keep working hard and awaken your bloodline soon!"

  Ryan respectfully took the crystal, pretending to slip it into his pocket. But the moment it touched his palm, it dissolved instantly into a warm current, flowing smoothly into his body.

  Energy: 142

  Stamina: 35/36

  Strength: 20/21

  Spirit: 13/16

  Skills:

  - Iron Body Technique Lv.5

  - Five Tigers Blade Technique Lv.4

  Conditions met for Basic Skill-Stealing Card. Merge now?

  Already familiar with the process, Ryan quickly confirmed. His energy dropped back down to 42 as a new Skill-Stealing Card appeared.

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  Targets detected. Activate Skill-Stealing Card?

  Ryan mentally agreed. Several targets instantly appeared in his mind: Deputy Overseer Victor Shaw, Captain Harris, Aaron Hale, Louis, Greg, and others.

  Ryan hesitated briefly—Victor and Harris were undoubtedly powerful, perhaps too far beyond his current strength. Eventually, he confidently chose Aaron Hale—the arrogant young man surely possessed valuable skills.

  Five crimson cards floated before Ryan. He chose one at random, secretly hoping he'd gain Aaron's bloodline power—wouldn't it be satisfying to beat Aaron using his own abilities?

  Instead, the card flipped to reveal clearly: "H-grade Bloodline Potion (1 vial)"

  Ryan blinked in surprise. Aaron actually had a Bloodline Potion on him!

  Initially disappointed it wasn't an immediate combat skill like his Iron Body Technique, Ryan quickly realized this H-grade potion was incredibly valuable—judging from Harris's earlier reaction, perhaps even priceless in their settlement.

  If only he had more Skill-Stealing Cards!

  Still, Ryan held back from immediately using the potion. In front of so many eyes, caution was wise.

  "Greg, take Ryan to collect his new gear as a high-level warrior later," Deputy Overseer Victor instructed calmly. Then, turning to Harris, he added, "Captain Harris, come with me."

  Harris glanced briefly at Ryan, nodded, and followed Victor Shaw out a small side door. Aaron watched them leave, then strode away proudly without another word.

  Ryan threw an arm casually around Greg's shoulders, grinning warmly, instantly winning Greg over. "Man, that Aaron guy sure acts high-and-mighty. Doesn't even glance our way."

  Greg chuckled appreciatively, enjoying Ryan's easygoing manner. Leaning closer, he whispered cautiously, "Well, he's got a reason. Aaron was born with third-grade ordinary bloodline purity—destined to awaken his bloodline. Some say he might become a True Blood warrior someday. Even the Deputy Overseer won't offend him lightly."

  Third-grade ordinary bloodline purity? Ryan's own inherited memories reminded him grimly that his body's purity was mere ninth-grade—practically no chance of awakening. No wonder Aaron acted so superior.

  Greg continued quietly, "Look, Aaron isn't personally targeting you. He's got a younger brother born with weak bloodline purity. Aaron wants Deputy Overseer Victor's Bloodline Potion for him instead. Try not to take it too personally."

  Ryan understood Aaron's reasoning, though it still felt unfair. That potion would've been his if Aaron hadn't interfered. Thankfully, Ryan had secretly obtained another potion through his Skill-Stealing Card.

  Becoming a high-level warrior offered limited benefits—a slightly better diet and a private room in the warrior's quarters. Though his new room was just as cramped as his previous home, Ryan was thrilled at finally having personal space.

  Even better, meals in the warriors' area were unlimited—Ryan eagerly enjoyed his first lavish meal of unlimited meat, something unimaginable for his previous self.

  Satisfied, Ryan returned briefly to his father's home. Hank Carter sat alone, drinking gloomily. When Ryan entered, Hank exploded instantly, "You worthless brat! How dare you embarrass Tiger Girl like that? Trying to give your old man a heart attack?"

  Hank brandished a willow branch angrily. "Tonight, you're consummating that damn marriage—or I'll beat you senseless!"

  Ryan, now fully adapted to life here, calmly took a cup of liquor from the table, sipping lazily. "Sorry, Dad. You're not strong enough to beat me anymore."

  Hank stared, speechless. When had his timid son grown such backbone—and confidence?

  Ryan grinned mischievously, "Besides, that woman from the west tunnels has clearly liked you forever. Since I've got my own place now, why don't you invite her to move in? She'll take good care of you."

  Hank flushed bright red, sputtering furiously as Ryan teased further, "Come on, Dad, she's ripe as a peach. With your strength, you'll give me a baby brother—a future bloodline warrior—in no time!"

  "You brat!" Hank swung the branch wildly, though it was obviously just for show. Ryan laughed, easily dodging.

  After making sure Hank was settled, Ryan returned to his new room nearby. He had deliberately chosen a spot close to home. Closing the worn wooden door behind him, Ryan felt immense satisfaction.

  A thousand years into the future, and he'd finally become a homeowner!

  His experiences today had deeply impressed upon him the dangers lurking outside. Just this morning, Lee Irons had been alive and strong—but now he was gone forever. Those giant earthworms, evolved from mere insects of Ryan's original time, terrified him even now.

  Only strength could guarantee his survival.

  Clearing his mind, Ryan summoned the interface again. Carefully selecting the "H-grade Bloodline Potion" card, he activated it.

  The card dissolved into red light, flowing gently into Ryan's body. As he lay quietly on the dry straw bedding, a fierce heat surged upwards within him. Soon, he felt dozens of tiny threads—like energetic little snakes—slithering swiftly through his veins, awakening something deep inside him.

  The Bloodline Potion had begun its work!