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"Jarod," Aric called out, his voice steady. "We need to talk."

Jarod stopped in his tracks, his eyes narrowing. "What do you want, Aric? Haven\'t you done enough already?"

"I believe there are still things left unsaid," Aric replied, his gaze unwavering. "Let\'s speak somewhere more private."

Reluctantly, Jarod led Aric to a secluded garden within the Lei estate. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers, but the tension between them was palpable. Aric\'s eyes flickered to the ring on Jarod\'s finger—the vessel for Ryan Chen\'s soul state.

"Master Ryan Chen," Aric began, addressing the ring with a respectful bow. "I wish to speak with you directly."

Jarod\'s eyes widened in shock. The fact that Aric knew about Ryan Chen was a closely guarded secret. This revelation suggested that Aric had far more means and power than Jarod had ever imagined.

"You—how do you know about Master Ryan?" Jarod stammered, his face a mix of surprise and anger.

[Ding! Congratulations, host! You have gained +1000 Villain Halo and +10000 Villain Points for affecting the mentality of the protagonist Jarod Lei.]

There was a moment of silence before a faint, ethereal glow emanated from the ring. Slowly, the figure of Ryan Chen materialized, hovering in the air. Even in his soul state, his presence was formidable.

Ryan Chen appeared as an older man with long, flowing white hair and piercing blue eyes that seemed to see through everything. His ethereal form was clad in ancient, flowing robes, and his aura radiated wisdom and power.

"Aric," Ryan Chen said, his voice resonant despite his incorporeal form. "What do you want from me?"

"I have a proposition," Aric stated, his tone diplomatic. "I believe we can benefit from an alliance. Jarod has not provided you with the resources and support you deserve. I, however, can offer you something more substantial."

Ryan\'s eyes narrowed. "And what makes you think I would betray my student for your promises?"

Aric held up a vial of the Soul Rejuvenating Elixir. "This elixir is but a token of my sincerity. It can stabilize and nourish your soul, something that Jarod has yet to provide."

Jarod\'s face contorted with rage. "You have no right, Aric! Master Ryan is loyal to me!"

Ignoring Jarod\'s outburst, Aric continued. "Master Ryan, your potential is being wasted. With my resources, you could achieve new heights. Imagine regaining a physical form, stronger than ever before. I can provide the necessary treasures and cultivation materials to make that happen."

Ryan Chen\'s expression was inscrutable as he considered Aric\'s words. "You speak with conviction, Aric, but loyalty is not so easily swayed. I have a bond with Jarod."

Aric pressed on, sensing a glimmer of interest. "Loyalty is important, but so is progress. Jarod\'s ambitions are limited. With me, you could transcend your current state. This elixir," he held up the vial again, "is just the beginning. Join me, and you will have access to the Lei family\'s most guarded secrets and resources."

Ryan Chen\'s gaze shifted to Jarod, a silent conversation passing between master and student. "Jarod," he said softly, "I need this elixir. My soul has grown weaker, and if I am to support you in the upcoming battle, I require its strength."

Aric saw his chance and pressed further. "Master Ryan, you deserve the best. Think of what you could accomplish with my backing. I respect your loyalty, but I also respect your desire for growth and strength."

Ryan Chen\'s eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion before he turned back to Aric. "I will not abandon my student," he said firmly. "But I will accept your gift."

Aric inclined his head, hiding his disappointment. "I understand, Master Ryan. My offer stands, should you ever wish to reconsider. The path to greatness is always open with me. As a token of goodwill, please take this elixir freely. All I request is that you do not support Jarod in the upcoming battle."

Ryan Chen accepted the elixir, and as he did, Jarod\'s anger reached a boiling point. "This isn\'t over, Aric," he hissed. "You think you can buy loyalty, but you\'ll see just how wrong you are."

Aric met Jarod\'s glare with a calm, collected gaze. "We shall see, Jarod. The competition will decide many things."

As Ryan Chen\'s figure dissipated back into the ring, Aric turned to leave, his mind already plotting his next move. The stakes had never been higher, and the game of power and influence within the Lei family was just beginning. Aric knew he had to be ready for anything, and he intended to use every tool at his disposal to ensure his victory.

[Ding! Congratulations, host! You have gained +500 Villain Halo and +5000 Villain Points for angering the protagonist Jarod Lei.]

Aric smirked inwardly at the notification. Every step was falling into place, and he could almost taste the impending triumph.