Crystal Core (Crystal Core #1)

Now, those who summoned him expect some type of hero. That isn't Ryan. Ryan wants freedom. He wants to live his life his way. He'll do the right thing when confronted with it, but he isn't out to be anyone's savior.

Of course in a world under a brutal siege and surrounded by powerful cultivators, Ryan realizes the only path to freedom is becoming strong enough to make his own path. For once, the mysterious disease will work in his favor as he forms his Crystal Core.

Notes: This story features slow burn romantic interests, world building, a cultivation system with a litrpg framework, making fun of cultivation tropes, powerful supporting characters who have their own motivations and background, and an MC who has potential but is still growing in power. Be warned there is some mild cussing from some of the characters and the MC undergoes a great deal of personal growth this book so that he will be in the place he needs to be for the rest of the series.