Chapter 100 - 8-14

Chapter 8: Training and some formation maths

Name – Ning Feng

Stage – N.A.

Soul sense- 10 m

Strength –0.25

Stamina – 0.25

Defence-0.25

Reflexes – 0.25

Essence Qi-1

Unique abilities-

Rune master – Grade 1

Formations(Entry Level)

Concepts-

N.A.

Techniques-

N.A.

Many months have Passed since the first time I was able to make the Fireball rune and me and Ning Rong have been coming here almost everyday , for her its just for fun but for me it was to practice my runes and read other stuff that I told her to bring along .

Lately I have been delving into the formations aside from runes as runes and formations have a lot of overlapping aspects which is also true for alchemy and healing as both of them are heavily dependent on qi manipulation instead of weaving intricate patterns like for runes .

Healing is more about understanding and comprehending how qi interacts with human body as for alchemy its how qi interacts with ingredients and of course both of them are heavily dependent on the knowledge , the user of art possess which have been accumulated in the cultivation world for hundreds of thousands of years.

As I delved deeper into the study of formations, I couldn't help but notice the stark difference between the way they were portrayed in books and the reality of their mechanics. Initially, I was intimidated by the daunting descriptions of their complexity, but as I immersed myself in the texts, I began to realize that the challenge lay not in my own intelligence, but in the approach to understanding formations.

Unlike other disciplines where exceptional geniuses might grasp abilities beyond their cultivation level, formation masters relied heavily on the intricate calculations facilitated by their soul sense, so it made it impossible for them to go beyond their level. This realization came as a revelation to me.

Instead of using soul sense to count everything and visualize , I could leverage my soul sense as a powerful computational tool, akin to a calculator. I can use decimal based calculations for accurate measurements and use trigonometry and basic geometry to calculate angles and distance at which they needed to be placed at , from each other to get required result .

Drawing from my background in mathematics and physics, particularly in developing a physics engine for a game development company, I recognized the inherent mathematical principles underlying formations. While some might assume that formations were purely mystical and esoteric, I found that they were, in fact, grounded in principles of geometry and trigonometry.I don't even need that high level of maths just high school maths is more than enough to get the job done.

This realization shifted my perspective entirely. Rather than being daunted by the complexity of formations, I saw them as intricate puzzles waiting to be solved. Armed with my knowledge of high school mathematics, I began to approach formations with newfound confidence, knowing that I possessed the necessary tools to unravel their mysteries.

For me, formations became a fascinating blend of art and science. Each formation was like a carefully crafted equation, with every component meticulously calculated to achieve a specific outcome. As I studied the texts, I marveled at the ingenuity of the ancient formation masters, who had devised elaborate systems of symbols and patterns to encode their knowledge.

As I delved deeper into my studies, I found myself experimenting with different formations, applying my mathematical prowess to optimize their efficiency and effectiveness. With each success, I gained a deeper understanding of the underlying principles at play, honing my skills as a formation master.

I am already 3 years old and Ning Rong is 5 years old and soon her meridians would form which will reveal true extent oh her talent it should be in about a week's time , I think Ning Lian already has plans to do it in secret as the incident last time with Ning Dong truly shocked every one .

the anticipation building within me is palpable, like a hummingbird's wings fluttering against my chest. it's about the impending revelation of Ning Rong's true talent. 

But amidst the excitement, there's an enigma that continues to linger in the recesses of my mind: Ning Rong's striking appearance. Those lustrous silver locks cascading down her shoulders, akin to strands of moonlight woven into her hair, and those captivating pink eyes, reminiscent of delicate cherry blossoms in full bloom, seem too perfect to be random genetic anomalies. I can't help but wonder if her appearance has been subtly altered on a DNA level, perhaps by the crystal of that enigmatic naga with silver scales and pink eyes. It's a theory that seems plausible,

That Naga had affiliation with the destructive lightning element. As I ponder the origins of Ning Rong's unusual features, my thoughts inevitably drift to her left eye. There's a distinct possibility that it possesses some latent lightning-type ability, a remnant of the naga's elemental influence. The mere thought of such power lying dormant within her fills me with a mixture of awe and trepidation. What wonders might she be capable of unleashing once her true potential is unlocked?

But before Ning Rong's meridian formation ceremony, there's another important task at hand: preparing a special gift for her. I've been hard at work crafting rune spell scrolls, a skill I never knew I possessed until recently. When I revealed this newfound talent to Ning Lian, she was shocked beyond belief. But she wasted no time in putting my skills to good use, helping me sell the scrolls to gather funds for Ning Rong's ceremony.

As I stroll along the beach owned by our clan, the salty breeze caresses my skin, carrying with it the whispers of generations past. Here, amidst the golden sands and azure waves, I find solace in the timeless beauty of nature's embrace. The rhythmic lapping of the waves against the shore serves as a soothing melody, lulling me into a state of tranquil introspection.

I can't help but marvel at the intricate formations that dot the landscape, like ancient guardians silently watching over the sea. These formations, in conjunction with runes, play a crucial role in maintaining the qi levels of our surroundings. It's a delicate balance, one that requires constant vigilance and meticulous care. And yet, it's also a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancestorsof ning clan who devised these methods to harness the natural energies of our world.

I think Ning Rong might actually become a proper Jade beauty not just because of her impeccable appearance but also due to the fact that she has such crazy talent and I can tell her comprehension wouldn't be too low either probably thanks to Ning Lian and these jade beauties are always surrounded by trouble .

As I mused over Ning Rong's potential ascent to Jade beauty status, my mind can't help but conjure up the clichés that come with such a prestigious title. Jade beauties, the epitome of elegance and grace, are often depicted as magnets for trouble, their ethereal beauty and unparalleled talent attracting envy and danger in equal measure.

In the world of cultivation, Jade beauties are revered and coveted, their presence alone capable of sparking wars and igniting rivalries that span generations. It's a fate that Ning Rong, with her extraordinary talent and breathtaking appearance, seems destined to face. And as her adoptive brother, it falls upon me to ensure her safety and well-being, even if it means reluctantly stepping out of my comfort zone of quiet solitude and immersing myself in the chaotic world of clan politics.

Despite my penchant for a quiet life spent buried in books, I find myself reluctantly accepting the role of protector, vowing to keep a vigilant eye on Ning Rong's every move. After all, in a world where danger lurks around every corner and betrayal lies in wait at every turn, it's better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to someone as precious as my sister.

But as I contemplated the myriad dangers that await Ning Rong, I can't help but inject a healthy dose of humor into the situation. After all, what's life without a little laughter to lighten the mood? So, I find myself envisioning scenarios straight out of a cheesy martial arts novel, where rival clans scheme and plot against Ning Rong, each vying for the chance to claim her as their own.

"Oh, look, here comes the infamous Jade beauty, the bane of every clan's existence," I imagine them whispering amongst themselves, their eyes gleaming with envy and malice. "Let's see who can outwit the other and win her favor!"

But amidst the chaos and turmoil, there's a glimmer of hope, a silver lining in the storm clouds that loom overhead. Perhaps Ning Rong's unique soul physique, forged through a mysterious resonance with the gem of that enigmatic naga, holds the key to her survival. It's a theory that seems plausible, given the countless mutations and enhancements that have manifested within her.

Yet, as I ponder the implications of Ning Rong's extraordinary abilities, a sobering realization dawns upon me. This phenomenon, this convergence of soul and gem, is a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, a rare and precious anomaly that defies all logic and reason. And it's a phenomenon that will likely never be replicated with any other physique but hers, making her all the more valuable—and all the more vulnerable—in the eyes of those who seek to exploit her.

The mysterious resonance with that gem may hold far greater significance than I initially realized. As I reflect on the improbable series of events that led to my second chance at life, it becomes increasingly clear that the gem's influence may extend far beyond Ning Rong's extraordinary abilities. That gem might also be the reason i was able to gain a second chance at life

It's almost as if fate itself intervened, orchestrating a sequence of events that culminated in my miraculous resurrection. Could it be that the gem, with its power and enigmatic properties, played a pivotal role in guiding me back from the brink of death? The thought lingers in the back of my mind, tantalizing and elusive, like a puzzle waiting to be solved.

Perhaps there's a deeper connection between Ning Rong's soul physique and my own inexplicable revival, a bond that transcends mere coincidence and defies rational explanation. After all, stranger things have happened in this world of cultivation, where the line between reality and myth is often blurred beyond recognition.

But regardless of the true nature of that gem's influence, one thing remains abundantly clear: it has granted me a precious gift, a second chance at life that I refuse to squander.

Chapter 9 : Peak level crafting

"I cant believe you can actually make these many in only one month , the fact you can even make it at all is rather unbelievable, runes and formations are most difficult of professions, that's why there is not a single fourth graderunic or formation master on the entire Seven great islands , here you are easily making so many of these low level 1st grade scrolls and you even made mid-level one on your first try."

" Sigh "

"So what do you want to gift Rong Rong ", Ning Lian asked .

"That's a secret "I replied mysteriously .

"Oh so that's why you have been visiting artefact Shops all over the island" She said , my nonchalant demeanour faltered for a moment .

As Ning Lian's eyes bore into mine with a mix of curiosity and suspicion, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt at my covert activities. She was no fool; she knew me well enough to sense when something was amiss, and my recent escapades to various artefact shops hadn't gone unnoticed.

"Ah, well, you know me," I chuckled nervously, attempting to deflect her scrutiny with a casual shrug. "Just exploring my options, you know? Trying to find the perfect gift for Ning Rong's upcoming ceremony."

Ning Lian arched an eyebrow "Exploring your options, huh? More like embarking on a mission to scour every artefact shop on the island. And for what? A simple gift?"

"Hehe That's a secret and even you will have to wait for ceremony to know plus I want to gift her something useful but i still have to thank you for all the money " I chuckled.

" Don't worry Feng'er, anyway its for a gift and knowing you it will be well spent , I honestly feel weird talking like this to a 3 year old but I don't what mystical herb Lu Jia ate before giving birth to you , well I guess I know ."Ning Lian regarded me with a curious look.

"I suppose that's commendable" She conceded, though her eyes twinkled with amusement.

"But all this secrecy has increased my curiosity even more ."

As Ning Lian turned her attention to more pressing matters—the preparations for Ning Rong's upcoming ceremony. With only a week left until her meridians formed and her true talents were revealed, there was much to be done.

"I'll need to gather the necessary materials and artefacts," Ning Lian mused aloud, her brow furrowed in concentration. "And we'll need to ensure that the ceremony proceeds smoothly, without any disruptions."

Disruptions, huh? The mention of potential disturbances around the sub-realm dungeon brought a grimace to my lips. It wasn't uncommon for monstrous beasts to wander perilously close to the dungeon's entrance, especially in recent weeks.

Rumors of strange occurrences and sightings had spread like wildfire throughout the island, causing no small amount of concern among the populace.

"Speaking of disruptions," I interjected, unable to resist the urge to broach the topic. "Have you heard about the disturbances around the sub-realm dungeon? Monstrous beasts seem to be cropping up with alarming frequency, and there are whispers of something... unsettling lurking within." I asked with some apprehension.

Ning Lian's expression darkened, her features drawn with concern. "Yes, I've heard the rumors," she admitted, her voice tinged with unease. "It's troubling, to say the least. We'll need to keep a close eye on the situation and ensure the safety of our clan members."

I nodded in agreement, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on my mind. As if planning for Ning Rong's ceremony wasn't stressful enough, now we had to contend with potential threats from the sub-realm dungeon. Just another day in the life of a cultivator, I supposed.

But amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there was one thing I remained steadfastly focused on—the task of crafting the perfect gift for Ning Rong. It had to be something special, something that reflected her unique talents and boundless potential. And with my newfound proficiency in runes and formations, I was determined to make it a reality.

Runes and formations were divided into Low, Mid , High , Peak level ones within the given Grade and for a master othe failure rate , difficulty , time consumed, Soul essence , Qi , resources everything increased with every level .

The Fireball rune was a first grade Mid level rune as for first grade low level runes they were mostly for utilities by cultivators for various purposes like lighting fire, creating water from atmosphere , helping plants and herbs grow , etc.

Well that's the case for every Low level Rune for every grade they were extremely important unlike what their name might suggest as they made it possible for cultivators to live more comfortably basically almost at the level of modern world .

For what I am about to create is a peak Level First Grade rune and imbue it with a effect that will extremely helpful for her but creating it would put me out of commission for three days .

Normally it would be created by someone atsecond grade as those who can create peak level ones in their own are considered geniuses of this craft.

But it was the peak-level runes that truly captured my imagination. These runes represented the pinnacle of runecrafting mastery, capable of achieving feats that bordered on the miraculous.

Crafting a peak-level rune required not only exceptional skill and knowledge but also a deep understanding of the underlying principles of qi manipulation and spiritual energy.

As I contemplated the task ahead, I knew that creating a peak-level First Grade rune would be no small feat. The sheer complexity and power of such a rune meant that only the most skilled and experienced formation masters could hope to succeed.

In preparation for the task, I spent countless hours refining my understanding of rune crafting techniques and honing my skills to perfection. I meticulously planned out every aspect of the rune's design, ensuring that each symbol and inscription was perfectly aligned to achieve the desired effect.

As the day of creation drew near, I set out to embark on what would undoubtedly be the most ambitious undertaking of my fledgling rune crafting career.

I brought out the artefact seal on which I am going to place , engraving tools and lots of qi stones and one thing that other might not consider but I had to, the instability caused by environment qi and possible lack of chi during engraving.

I had been practicing for this for a while now , normally it would be impossible for me but I have come up with a great plan to use qi gathering formation although modified by me which normally would be impossible for someone at my grade without advanced mathematics and my soul calculator using those formulaes.

Its my first time using runes and formation in true synergy using one to create other which normally wouldn't possible for someone at my grade let alone my cultivation level.

With a deep breath, I carefully laid out my tools on the table before me. The artefact seal gleamed softly in the dim light of the room, its surface polished to perfection.

I reached for the engraving tools, their sharp edges glinting in the faint glow. Each tool had been meticulously crafted for precision and accuracy, essential qualities for the delicate work ahead. With steady hands, I began to etch intricate patterns and symbols onto the surface of the seal, channelling my qi with precision and control.

With the artefact seal as my canvas, I had woven a tapestry of qi , each rune intricately intertwined to create a masterpiece of enigmatic power. It was a testament to my ingenuity and resourcefulness.

As I worked, I could sense the subtle fluctuations in the environment qi around me. It was a constant struggle to maintain stability, to prevent the volatile energy from disrupting my delicate engraving. But I refused to be deterred, pushing forward with determination and resolve.

In addition to the qi stones that I had gathered for the task , the special qi gathering formation, the formation would help me to harness the ambient qi in the environment and channel it into the artefact seal, providing a steady source of energy to sustain me throughout the engraving process.

It was a risky gambit, one that required precise calculations and perfect execution. But I had faith in my abilities, in the knowledge that I had gained through years of study and practice. With each stroke of the engraving tool, I felt a surge of confidence coursing through me, driving me forward towards my goal.

Despite the challenges posed by the unstable environment qi, I remained focused . I refused to let anything stand in the way of completing the task at hand. With each passing moment, the symbols on the artefact seal began to take shape, their intricate designs coming to life under my skilled hands.

Hours passed in a blur as I worked tirelessly, pouring my heart and soul into every stroke of the engraving tool. The room was filled with the soft hum of energy as the qi gathering formation siphoned energy from the surrounding environment, feeding it into the artefact seal and sustaining me in my efforts.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I lifted my gaze from the completed seal, a sense of satisfaction washing over me. The symbols etched onto its surface shimmered with an otherworldly glow, their intricate patterns radiating with latent power.

I think I need to rest now. I feel really tired.

The artefact seal pulsated with an ethereal glow, its surface alive with a kaleidoscope of shimmering colours that danced and swirled like wisps of smoke in the wind. With each beat, a surge of power emanated from its core, filling the air with a palpable sense of energy and vitality.

As I reached out to touch it, I could feel the thrum of magic coursing through my veins, sending tingles of excitement racing along my skin. The runes etched into its surface seemed to come alive, their intricate patterns shifting and changing in response to the flow of qi that permeated the air.

With each pulse, the seal seemed to draw upon the very essence of the world around it, channelling the elemental forces of nature into a swirling vortex of power. It was as if the seal itself was a conduit.

As I held the artefact seal aloft, I could sense its power growing stronger, its aura expanding outward like ripples on a pond.

Suddenly the sound of lightning crackling was heard in the room .

Then my consciousness faded away into oblivion.

….

For the next three days, I just rested on my bed and read a lot about formations and cultivation process related books and as usual tried to sense my spirit roots and soul sea as after almost three and half years in this world and reading how cultivators formed their Dao seals, I have a few theories in mind.

But I will need to accumulate more knowledge to solidify those understandings which became a lot clearer after, I opened my soul sea and sensed my spirit roots and the next step would be to wait for my 5th birthday as after that my meridians can form anytime in that year, like for Ning Rong it happened after almost 5 months, which will be tomorrow and its time for me to get out of my bed .

Name – Ning Feng

Stage – N.A.

Soul sense- 10 m

Strength – 0.25

Stamina – 0.25

Defence-0.25

Reflexes- 0.25

Essence Qi-1

Unique abilities-

Rune master – Grade 1

Formations master – Grade 1

Concepts-

N.A.

Techniques-

N.A.

Chapter 10 : Meridians and Special Physique

Ning Lian told me to come with her and Rong to the place she had prepared for my sister meridian formation ceremony, it was a place close to our daily training spot or from Rong's perspective our daily hangout spot.

Ning Lian led us through winding pathways and dense foliage until we reached a secluded spot nestled against the rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean.

Hidden from prying eyes by a thick canopy of trees, the entrance to the cave was obscured by layers of concealment formations, woven from the finest materials and imbued with potent qi.

As we stepped into the cavernous interior, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate network of formations that adorned the walls and ceiling.

Each one was a work of art in its own right, meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while providing unparalleled protection and security.

The cave itself was spacious, with high vaulted ceilings and smooth stone floors worn smooth by centuries of use.

Shafts of sunlight filtered through narrow cracks in the rock, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow across the chamber.

Ning Lian led us deeper into the cave, her footsteps echoing softly against the stone walls.

Along the way, we passed several alcoves and side passages, each one guarded by an array of defense formations designed to repel any intruders or unwanted guests.

Finally, we reached a large chamber at the heart of the cave, bathed in the soft glow of bioluminescent fungi that clung to the walls. In the center of the chamber stood a raised platform, adorned with intricate runes and symbols that pulsed with a faint blue light.

"All these runes with also help conceal any sound , light or smell from reaching outside the area of their influence and with formations outside it should completely conceal any kind of activity happening inside this cave." Ning lian said looking confident.

" Although I doubt there would be anymore surprises after her special physique awakened last time but I think caution is necessary "

she seem to be thinking about something , but the formations here are most likely of our clans best formation master a Level 2 and one of our elders and I have never heard of anyone above that level on seven great islands and even among clan strong holds only our Ning clan and lin clan are the only ones with Level 3 formation protecting their respective clan bases making it very difficult for even a group of foundation establishment cultivators to invade the or infiltrate the clan stronghold .

Although we even have books till Level 3 but no one seemed capable of learning and comprehending it to good enough levels.

"Rong, are you feeling nervous?" I taunted . "Do you need a hug? Don't start crying all of a sudden." I teased, flashing her a mischievous grin.

The impending meridian formation ceremony had her on edge, and I couldn't resist the urge to poke fun at her.

Her reaction was exactly as I anticipated – a mixture of irritation and indignation. She shot me a fiery glare that could have scorched the walls of the cave we were standing in , her eyes narrowed at my teasing, a hint of indignation flickering in their depths.

"I'm not nervous!" she retorted, her voice tinged with defiance. "And I definitely don't need a hug from you."

I chuckled at her reaction, knowing full well that she was just trying to save face like a true cultivator . "Sure, sure, whatever you say, Rong," I replied, feigning innocence. "But you know, they say the meridian formation process can be quite painful. Are you sure you're ready for it?"

Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she shot me a glare that could have melted steel. "Of course I'm ready!" she snapped, her tone defensive. "And I'll have you know, I'm not afraid of a little pain."

I raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Oh, really? Because you're looking a little green around the gills," I teased, enjoying the way her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. " So you're saying you wouldn't scream like a banshee if it hurt too much?" I teased, grinning like a cat who had caught a particularly juicy mouse.

Before she could respond, she lashed out with a well-aimed punch, catching me off guard and sending me stumbling backwards. "Ouch! What was that for?" I exclaimed, rubbing my arm where she had hit me.

Her cheeks flushed even redder, but she refused to meet my gaze, choosing instead to focus on the ground beneath her feet. "I-I didn't mean to..." she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Violent little thing, aren't you?" I teased, unable to resist getting in one last jab. "You're practically a Yandere in the making!"

She rolled her eyes at my exaggerated reaction, but I could see a hint of amusement lurking beneath her irritation. "You asked for it," she replied smugly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

Ning Rong seemed confused at the familiar term, and I couldn't help but laugh at her puzzled expression. "What's a Yandere? you keep on calling me that" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Oh, you know, it's just a term for someone who's sweet on the outside but secretly violent and possessive on the inside," I explained, enjoying her bewilderment. "Kind of like you! , but not there yet and I call you tsundere not yandere. "

Ning Lian raised an eyebrow at our banter, clearly amused by our antics. "What's that, dear?" she inquired, turning her attention to Ning Rong and me.

"Oh, uh, nothing, Mother," I replied hastily, hoping to deflect her attention. sometimes I forget that I am in a different world .

But it was too late – the damage had already been done. Ning Rong shot me a look of pure exasperation.

Ning Rong shrugged nonchalantly, pretending innocence. "Nothing, Mother," she replied with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Just Feng being his usual weird self."

I grinned unapologetically, revelling in the playful banter that had become a hallmark of our relationship. Despite the nerves and uncertainty that surrounded us, moments like these reminded me that i still had people I cared about .

Ning Rong had a smile on her face now.

Mission accomplished

As Ning Rong's smile spread across her face, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. It seemed that my efforts to ease her tension had succeeded, at least for the moment.

With her smile signaling a shift in mood, I watched as the tension gradually seeped away from her features, replaced by a sense of calm determination.

With a deep breath, Ning Rong settled into her position, ready to begin the process of forming her meridians.

I observed her with a mixture of pride and apprehension, knowing that what lay ahead would not be easy. The formation of meridians was a crucial step in a cultivator's journey, but it was also a painful and arduous process.

After all I raised her.

I wiped off an imaginary tear. She looked at me like I was an idiot.

As Ning Rong closed her eyes and focused her concentration, I could sense the gravity of the moment. This was a pivotal moment in her cultivation path.

I spread my soul sense and tried to Understand what will happen inside her body this will be important data , though I have read a lot and understand a lot of theory seeing it is completely different.

As I observed Ning Rong undergoing the process of meridian formation, I couldn't help but notice the instability of her soul sense and the abnormal behavior of her spiritual roots.

It was clear that something was off, and I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of my stomach.

With each passing moment, I could see the pain etched on Ning Rong's face as she endured the grueling process.

The formation of meridians was no easy task, especially for someone as young as her.

But despite the pain, she remained resolute, her determination shining through even in the face of adversity.

I watched as a myriad of meridians began to form, intertwining and weaving their way through her body like intricate pathways of energy.

These qi-carrying veins connected to the area above her naval, known as the dantian, where all her Qi would eventually form as she continued her cultivation journey.

It was a sight to behold, seeing the foundations of her future power taking shape before my eyes.

But as the process continued, I couldn't help but notice something strange about Ning Rong's eyes.

The dark pink color seemed to have a rainbowish hue on the outer parts of her iris, while the inner part remained unchanged.

And even her hair, particularly her bangs, seemed to have a similar rainbowish hue. It was as if she were bathed in an otherworldly light, her appearance reminiscent of that of a child goddess.

In that moment, I couldn't help but compare her looks to that of a child goddess, her beauty transcending the boundaries of mortal perception. But as I marveled at her appearance, a sense of dread crept over me.

I cursed under my breath, knowing all too well the problems that her beauty would bring. In the world of cultivation, being a jade beauty was both a blessing and a curse, attracting attention and danger in equal measure.

But despite my frustrations, I knew that now was not the time for that. Ning Rong needed my support, and I would do everything in my power to help her through this ordeal. As the process continued, I remained by her side, offering words of encouragement and comfort as she endured the pain and discomfort.

And even as the process dragged on, I could see the determination in Ning Rong's eyes. She refused to give up, pushing through the pain with a strength and resilience that amazed me. It was a testament to her character, to her unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

As the hours passed, I could sense that the end was near. The formation of Ning Rong's meridians was almost complete, and soon she would emerge stronger and more powerful than ever before. But for now, all I could do was wait and watch.

There is something weird going on around her left eye , it was as if .. here Qi is moving around that part and something is making that possible there are patterns forming in that region of her skull

Presumably linking to the nerves that are connected to her eye and it seems like something like that has already happened around her right

I think it must have been on the day she knocked out Ning dong and those patterns are actually shining and conducting qi but they are very hazy .

those patterns are a conduit for qi and I know one other thing which does same thing 'Runes' wait is that how runes were discovered and after generations upon generations of cultivator events similar to these in nature were they able to create runes

Later They discovered principles based on which you can manipulate or what I like to call code them to your liking like we would with a coding language and every coding language have its syntax which perform certain things

By following rules of that language you can basically have computer whatever you want and in this case Qi , People are creative whatever the world although number of cultivators are low they still have a history of 300,000 years after all.

But what made it possible , I think I will have to wait for own 5th birthday to pass for that. Mother doesn't care about things like these just every other cultivator for them they don't understand how someone gains a special physique nor do they care all they care about are results.

The moment she opened her eyes I knew she has successfully completed the process and what I saw shocked me both her eyes had four petaled flower shape over her iris faintly visible because they had slightly different lighter hue of pink compared to her iris same is true for the rainbowish hue .

Then there was pink lightning everywhere as she disappeared and appeared before me in short amount of time .

Bloody hell , she is faster than those Body tempering clan disciples I have seen who were most likely at low Body tempering.

Chapter 11: Talent and Concepts classification

"Wh- what ? how? That fast" I couln't help but blurt out in shock .

" I just wanted to try it on you, I think I can control it much better this time compared two an year ago . So are you Impressed? " She said looking as proud as a peacock . This is annoying.

Can I punch her now , I really want to for some reason.

But before I could reply I saw her disappear not just her but entire scenery and I found myself in world of darkness where I can speak and feel but there was no one. It was… an illusion.

"Damn it , Stop annoying me." I shouted in irritation.

…..

As the illusion dissipated, returning us to the familiar surroundings of the meridian formation site, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. It was disconcerting to be engulfed by darkness, even if it was just an illusion.

I turned to Ning Rong, who wore a mischievous grin on her face. She had conjured the illusion, a testament to her growing control over her lightning element. Despite her playful demeanour, I could sense her determination to master her newfound abilities.

"Looks like I need a lot of practice if I want to control them both," she mused, her voice tinged with a hint of frustration. "You could easily tell it was an illusion, and I can only move in a straight line with my lightning."

I chuckled, reassured by her light hearted response. "Don't worry, Rong Rong. You'll get the hang of it with time and practice. Besides, your lightning abilities are already impressive."

Before our banter could continue, Ning Lian intervened, calling us over to inspect Ning Rong's newly formed meridians. Her excitement was palpable, her eyes gleaming with pride as she praised Ning Rong's potential.

"Stop bothering Feng'er, Rong Rong, come here. I want to see your meridians," Ning Lian exclaimed, her voice filled with anticipation. "Congratulations. You might not realize it, but you can truly shake the entire Seven Great Islands and even the two continents. There would be Nascent Soul cultivators, or maybe even higher, lining up to take you in as a disciple."

Her words struck a chord within me, reminding me of the immense significance of Ning Rong's talents. She possessed the potential to become a legendary figure in the world of cultivation, revered and sought after by cultivators far and wide.

As Ning Rong approached, a sense of pride swelled within me.

Little Duckling who followed me around has grown up and i am going to release her in the wild and teach her how to avoid danger and be cautious , so that jade beauty will not cause problems for me .

I watched as Ning Lian examined Ning Rong's meridians, her expression shifting from excitement to awe. It was a momentous occasion, marking the beginning of Ning Rong's journey towards becoming a true cultivator.

Suddenly Rong fell to floor feeling exhausted " looks like I over used it a bid using two different one puts more strain on my soul compared to using repeatedly ." I agreed after all those were two different patterns and I think there is more connection between these patterns and soul than I realize.

"Mother why did you say that so many people will want to take me as a disciple" . Ning Rong asked

" well I told you read some books like Feng'er but you never listen . " she berated rong while looking at me and saying " why don't you tell this little troublemaker about reason and also explain her about the Concepts and Dao."

I nodded and gave smug smile to Rong who looked annoyed and confidently started speaking "Concepts are divided in three Tiers .

From Low to High or Tier 1 to 3 for example there are many concepts like fire , water, wind , shadow , blood , light, space , etc or something elusive like healing, soul, etc or something abstract like life , death , yin-yang, emotions, time, etc but not all are equal and there maybe concepts no one even knows about .

Low tier concepts or Tier 1 concepts are-

Basics elements like fire , water, wind , blood , earth , wood , shadow , metal , etc or even their variations like ice or steam for water its just different state of water so they are also considered low level ,same is true for lava.

But of course not all elements are considered low level concepts other examples of low tier can be concepts of strength , speed, illusion or weapon concepts like sword , spear , bow which are used in conjunction with weapons and former are for those who use their body to fight.

While those using elemental concepts usually fight from a distance but that's just oversimplifying it you can use it any way you want what concepts do is imbue your qi to give it the properties of the chosen element .

Mid tier concepts or Tier 2 concepts are-

You can understand them as higher form of elements or more elusive concepts for example in elements there are lightning, nature, light ,darkness , temperature.

As for the elusive ones there are soul, healing, killing , emotions, then there are others like sharpness, invulnerability which can be applied to both body or the weapons depending on the cultivator these mid tier concepts are usually much stronger in comparison to the low level concepts.

Both the cultivators are at the same level the ones with the higher concept can easily crush the ones with low level concepts. It's like a fight between body tempering and Qi manifestation cultivator.

But of course in real life there's not just concepts but also the realm upto which the cultivator has comprehended and the synergy between concepts as well as the synergy between concepts and techniques so truly powerful cultivator doesn't need to have huge number of concepts but the synergy between the concepts and techniques energy and between concepts themselves should be created carefully.

High tier concepts or Tier 3 concepts are-

These are the most powerful concepts and gap between high tier and mid tier concepts is even larger then they low and mid tier one they extremely few in number and most of it is from ancient records and as the tier gets higher and higher the number of available concepts naturally decreases there are for example life, death, space, time, yin , Yang, samsara and a few others .

I talked about synergy before and one might think it is easy to create synergy but most of the time people cannot even master a single concept let alone multiple concepts, there is not even a need to think about mastering what you like unless you have high comprehension or special physique or having luck to find appropriate resources which might help you in gaining the concept you like.

The most important part of concepts is to advance to core formation and nascent soulyou must master a concept along with comprehending the next major realm and accumulating enough qi for example – if someone comprehended next major realm , then he then must attune his Dao seal to a concept in those levels .

When you reach a new realm in cultivation you gain a Dao seal of the corresponding colour to that cultivation level and in order to advance to any thing above core formation you must attune each Dao seal to a concept except for body tempering to foundation building but all the levels after that you not only need to comprehend realms and accumulate Qi .

But also a new concept in order to create a new Dao seal and once you add a concept to the seal it changes from just a concept to a Dao giving you completely new level of control over that element.

You can master more concepts but taking them to the level of Dao without attuning them to Dao seal is very difficult , in theory it can be done .

Ning Rong's bewildered expression only fuelled my mischievous intent. With a self-satisfied grin, I leaned in, ready to deliver the punchline. "Can you explain that one more time?" she asked, her tone a mix of confusion and curiosity.

I couldn't resist the opportunity to playfully tease her. "Oh, I knew you wouldn't be able to understand," I replied, my voice laced with mock superiority. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of smugness as I watched her reaction.

Ning Rong's eyes narrowed in mock indignation, her lips forming a playful pout. "Hey now, don't get all high and mighty on me," she retorted, her tone dripping with playful sarcasm. "Just because you've got your head buried in those dusty old books all day doesn't make you a genius, you know."

I couldn't help but laugh at her playful jab. "Hey, those 'dusty old books' happen to contain a wealth of knowledge," I protested, feigning offense. "And besides, it's not my fault if my intellect surpasses yours."

Ning Rong rolled her eyes, a playful glint dancing in their depths. "Oh, please," she scoffed, her tone teasing. "I may not be a genius like you, but at least I have common sense."

I couldn't argue with that logic, and I chuckled in agreement. "Touché," I conceded, unable to suppress my amusement. "But in all seriousness, I'll explain it to you one more time. Just try to keep up this time, okay?"

Ning Rong nodded eagerly, her curiosity piqued. "Deal," she agreed, flashing me a mischievous grin. "But if I don't get it this time, you owe me another peak level 1 runic artefact."

I raised an eyebrow at her playful demand but couldn't help but smile. "You drive a hard bargain," I replied, unable to resist her infectious enthusiasm. "But it's a deal. Now, let's break it down step by step..."

And so, with a mixture of laughter and playful banter, I embarked on the task of explaining the concept to Ning Rong once more.

" You knowledge regarding concepts and your understanding is very deep the way you explained about states of water and lava, I have actually never thought about it that way, I think you might be right about that." Ning Lian said with a pensive look on her face .

For someone like it might me obvious but for a world where there exists no formal education and strength is king how would they have time to invest in scholarly endeavours.

I said to Rong " so now do you understand why your special physique is rare among even the talented people on the entire 7 great islands there are only 5 people who have reached core formation cultivation and all of them had a special physique of one or two low level concept

And by the way no one can possess a physique of high level concepts as that would destroy the body of any new born human or beast and you not only have one mid level concept but 2 lightning and soul we can pass off your soul concept as low level illusion concept .

But as for your lightning concept we will keep it a secret for now everyone thinks that you put Ning dong in illusion outside of sect as that news was spread by the clan leader that day so we can let it be as no one can check what concepts do you have as your physique unless they are nascent soul cultivators.

You have a natural affinity for soul and lightning and the reason you can use your abilities without comprehending the concept of these 2 is because those abilities are gifted to you by your special physique and someone that have the physique having 2 mid tier concepts is much rarer than you think.

Even on the 2 continents people like you will be fought over by the top powers sect leaders to make you their disciple I doubt that every top sect even has someone Like you , so do you understand the gravity of your situation , we will keep your abilities a secret for now and mother will tell the clan leader in secret ." I said my tone grave.

"So physique having better or more concepts are considered superior to the ones having fewer or lower concepts and there is one more thing about Physiques and that is how they are divided :-

NORMAL PHYSIQUES

SPIRIT PHYSIQUES

SPECIAL PHYSIQUES

You already know about normal and special physique but spirit physique is somewhat different and that is physique of all almost all the foundation establishment cultivators on the seven great islands .

It falls somewhere between normal and special ones it basically accelerates the speed of qi absorption by the body as even if you comprehend the realm you need to accumulate qi in order to advance which basically divides every level of cultivation into four minor realms which are – low , middle , high and peak .

But the biggest benefit of comprehending higher minor realm early is your cultivating speed will not be any lower than those at spirit or special physique depending on your cultivation technique .

Anyone can become a foundation establishment cultivator even if they cant master concept or have a any kind of physique spirit or special and yet there are only around 100 foundation establishment cultivators on the entire seven great islands and only two of them are people with no physique one of them being mother ." Rong listened pensively. I sat down and decide to take a break and explain other important stuff while we walked back towards the clan.

Chapter 12 : Concepts and techniques

" Mother you are a foundation establishment cultivator and I have heard that almost all the cultivators at that level are people, who wish to master at least one low level concept to advance to core formation level , I heard you have healing Dao." I asked curiously

She smiled " I am one of those rare few, who have reached Foundation establishment and mastered a concept, it is the healing concept not Dao of healing".

I am honestly a little shocked , the greatest benefit those with Physique get is free concepts, in a way those born with physiques basically get those abilities they are born with, as well as free concepts.

Once any cultivator masters a concept it helps a lot, as not only they gained a lot of experience but mastering a concept pushes cultivators closer to Qi making it easier for them to master concepts in future.

The thing is those born with physique also have abilities which use less amount of qi compared to techniques and its power is increased when used in conjunction with the mastered concept, so, clans invest a lot of money in people like these.

Usually people with physiques definitely reach Qi manifestation if not with ability then with age even if they don't actively cultivate , around 20 % percent body tempering cultivators advance to Qi manifestation stage.

That's why Qi manifestation is considered the back bone of any sect or clan as they are numerous enough to help the sects influence to spread and powerful enough to deter those who want to oppose the sect or clan.

As we walked back towards the clan, a sudden thought struck me like a bolt of lightning.

"Before we go back, I want to give you something," I announced, reaching into my pocket and pulling out a small jade box.

Ning Rong's eyes lit up with excitement as she eagerly took the box from my hands. "What is it?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

I could not help but chuckle at her enthusiasm. "You sure love runic artefacts," I teased, a playful grin tugging at the corners of my lips. "Go ahead and try it."

With a gleeful smile, Ning Rong eagerly began to open the jade box, her hands trembling with anticipation. As she lifted the lid, a soft glow emanated from within, casting a warm light on her face. Her eyes widened in wonder as she gazed at the contents inside.

"What can it do?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.

I couldn't help but laugh at her eagerness. "Well, that's for you to find out," I replied, a mischievous twinkle in my eye. "But I can guarantee it'll be something fun."

Ning Rong's curiosity only seemed to grow as she reached into the box, her fingers brushing against the smooth surface of the artefact. With a sense of anticipation, she activated its power, and in an instant, a dazzling display of light and colour filled the air.

As Ning Rong examined the artefact in awe, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at her reaction.

"That's a lightning-imbued peak level 1 rune seal," I explained, watching as her eyes widened with excitement. "It has the ability to shoot very concentrated lightning qi at a single target."

Ning Rong's gaze flickered with curiosity as she processed the information. "But what makes it so special?" she asked, her voice tinged with anticipation.

"Well, you see," I began, a mischievous grin spreading across my face, "It's very demanding, especially for someone like you."

I watched as her eyebrows furrowed in confusion, waiting for the realization to sink in. "It can only be used once, maybe twice if you push yourself," I continued, the excitement evident in my voice. "And it's powerful enough to even seriously hurt a body tempering cultivator who has reached peak of Body tempering."

As she marvelled at the spectacle before her, I could not help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Seeing her so delighted brought me joy, and I could not help but revel in the moment.

"Its main use will be to hide your lightning element if someone ever sees you using it, you can blame on the seal , it will give you another layer of protection."

"So, what do you think?" I asked, unable to contain my excitement.

Ning Rong turned to me with a radiant smile. "It's amazing!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Thank you".

" Rong Rong although you cant cultivate before eight you can now start sensing the concepts either those inside your physique or those you have a interest in ." Ning Lian suggested .

" Rong Rong you might not realize it but mastering a single mid tier concept would elevate anyone to higher level of status in society they would directly be labelled as rare geniuses that have to be nurtured by the clan or sect as once someone masters a mid tier concept it becomes much easier to master lower level concepts related to that particular Mid tier concept.

And making it easier for cultivator cultivate quickly as it also helps in comprehending higher realms to some extent as these concepts will be related to one's body and in turn shape the body's affinity for that element." She explained

"For example mother has attained healing concept which is a mid level concept at her yellow seal that's why she is the clan's foremost genius and probably future clan leader.

Someone like her who doesn't have a special physique and yet managed to comprehend a mid level concept at her yellow seal is rare even among the geniuses of the top sects ." I said

I continued. " Comprehension of concepts can divided into four phases initial , intermediate ,advanced and consummate and after that your concept evolves into a Dao .

It have same stages like the concept have and finally after that there is one more stage but I don't know it's name every enhancement in understanding is a great leap in power and the better the comprehension of concepts , the more powerful your techniques corresponding to the concept will be, synergy between concepts and techniques is extremely important as that would allow the cultivator to showcase his true potential .

People develop their own techniques at one point, when they have unique enough concepts and require specialised techniques in order to unleash their strength ,a lot of people just modify the existing techniques but the best techniques are the ones they have developed themselves as a person who developed it understands completely how the technique is supposed to work and what are its shortcomings and how to bridge those .

You can't expect a technique developed for someone's own body to work universally well on everyone else's it's not logical as even a minor deviation in Qi flow can weaken the technique .

No matter how similar humans bodies are there is always a difference in the way energy flows throughout the body and not all techniques utilise concepts while those that do are extremely powerful but the best will always be developed by the cultivator himself ."

She had a pensive look on her face and then she turned to Ning Lian and asked "Mother how did you comprehend the mid level healing concept so early? Can you become a core formation cultivator".

"Rong Rong, I was only able to master the healing concept but that was mainly due to me finding a Dao fruit, its one of the rarest treasures in the world, I found it in the sub realm dungeon during my first visit there it was floating on a river where we have to put up a camp .

And no, it's very unlikely that I would ever advance to core formation level , I would still need to comprehend core formation which is not exactly easy." She smiled, looking unbothered but she didn't tell them both was that after giving birth to Ning Rong it has become impossible for her to cultivate any further.

As that would destroy her dantian. It was probably the side effect of what happened to Ning Rong and she doesn't have very long left to live .

As Ning Rong and I made our way back to the clan estate, the sun hung high in the sky, casting its golden rays over the bustling streets. It was peak noon, and the estate was alive with activity as clansmen went about their daily routines.

As we approached the main gates, I could see familiar faces milling about, their expressions brightening as they caught sight of us. "Welcome back, Ning Rong!" one of them called out, offering a friendly wave.

"Hello there!" She replied with a grin, returning the greeting as we passed by. The atmosphere was jovial, filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation.

Ning Rong walked beside me, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she took in the familiar sights and sounds of home. "It's good to be back," she murmured, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

As we entered the clan estate, we were greeted by more clansmen, their faces alight with curiosity and excitement. " Ning Rong, Elder Lian it's good to see you!" they exclaimed, offering words of welcome and encouragement.

As we entered the clan estate, the warm welcome extended primarily to Ning Rong and Elder Lian, with the clansmen's faces lighting up at the sight of them. "Ning Rong, Elder Lian, it's good to see you!" they exclaimed enthusiastically, their voices filled with genuine warmth.

While Ning Rong and Elder Lian acknowledged the greetings with smiles and nods, I couldn't help but notice the subtle shift in demeanour when it came to me. As the son of Ning Lian's servant, I was often overlooked by the clansmen, relegated to the role of a mere servant-in-training.

there was an underlying assumption among many of the clansmen that I was destined to serve Ning Rong in the future. It was a reality that I had grown accustomed to, normally it will still sting to be treated as less than equal in the eyes of my peers but I honestly did not care I don't want to create enemies for something like face , these cultivators cared about useless stuff I did not

As the clansmen continued to engage with Ning Rong and Elder Lian, I stood on the sidelines, a silent observer to the exchange. It was a reminder of my place in the hierarchy of the clan, a position that I had never really cared about.

Nevertheless, I maintained a polite demeanour, offering polite nods and smiles in response to the occasional glance directed my way.

Chapter 13 : Two years ( part 1)

As we reached the clan estate and after mother had her conversation with the clan leader, the atmosphere shifted palpably. Ning Rong was officially declared as the next clan leader, and the effect was immediate.

Suddenly, she was being addressed with titles like "Young Mistress Rong," "Young Clan Head," and "Young Clan Leader," each honorific dripping with respect and deference.

It was as if a wave had swept over the clan, transforming the dynamics overnight. Those who had once kept their distance from Ning Rong due to her strong personality were now falling over themselves to shower her with praise and adulation.

The younger members of the clan, who had previously avoided her, now flocked to her side like dutiful little dogs, eager to bask in her newfound status and favor.

For the first two months, the scene played out like a carefully choreographed performance. Everywhere Ning Rong went, she was accompanied by a chorus of praise and flattery. Her every word was met with rapt attention, and her every action was lauded as a stroke of brilliance.

It was a sight to behold, watching the once-independent spirits of the clan bow and scrape before Ning Rong's newfound authority. But as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, the initial fervor began to wane. What had once been an extraordinary event became the new normal, and the clan settled into a routine of deference and obedience to their young clan leader.

Of course, there were still occasional displays of sycophancy and adoration, but they became less frequent as time went on. Ning Rong, for her part, seemed to take it all in stride, her confidence only growing with each passing day.

She had always possessed a natural charisma and leadership ability, and now, with the weight of the clan on her shoulders, she was truly coming into her own.

As for me, I watched the spectacle unfold with a mixture of amusement and resignation. It was clear that Ning Rong's ascension to clan leader had changed the dynamics of our clan in ways that none of us could have anticipated.

And while I had my own reservations about the sudden shift in power dynamics I didn't care too much about it as I spent most of my time reading while Ning Rong annoyed from the sides on our usual spot at the beach but it also meant enduring the occasional bout of bootlicking and flattery.

I grew accustomed to the sight of clansmen bowing and scraping before Ning Rong, their voices filled with reverence and deference. It became routine to hear her referred to as "Young Mistress Rong" or "Young Clan Leader."

Even I found myself falling into a rhythm, adjusting to the new dynamics and roles within the clan. As the son of Ning Lian's servant, my place in the hierarchy had always been clear, and now, with Ning Rong's ascension to clan leader, that role had only been solidified further.

" You should focus on comprehending the lightning first as its easier to comprehend compared to soul as soul is rather elusive and you can not see it plus I can help you with lightning but to truly help you I would need to wait for About one and a half year to understand what concepts truly are ".

I also wanted to help her develop proper morals but not make her so soft that would anyone could take advantage of her in this cruel cultivation world.

My concern for Ning Rong's development extended beyond the confines of her new role as clan leader. While it was essential for her to command respect and authority, I also recognized the importance of nurturing her moral compass in a world where strength often equated to ruthlessness.

I observed Ning Rong closely, noting her interactions with others and the way she handled various situations. While her assertiveness and confidence were admirable traits for a leader, I also detected hints of impulsiveness and a tendency to resort to force when faced with challenges.

Finding the right balance between strength and compassion was crucial. I didn't want Ning Rong to become hardened and cynical, losing sight of empathy and kindness in her pursuit of power. At the same time, I understood the harsh realities of the cultivation world and the need for resilience and self-preservation.

So, I took it upon myself to guide Ning Rong, offering advice and counsel whenever I could. I encouraged her to consider the consequences of her actions, urging her to think before she acted and to seek diplomatic solutions whenever possible emphasizing the importance of empathy and integrity in life.

It was a delicate balance, and there were times when I questioned whether I was doing the right thing. Was I being too soft on Ning Rong, shielding her from the harsh realities of the world? Or was I risking her becoming too hardened, losing touch with her humanity?

In the end, I could only do my best.

Few more months passed like this and I was actually enjoying my time in this world as I explored its mysteries and studied various kinds of runes and created runes which were as different as my imagination and knowledge can help me make and I have been researching a new peak level 1 rune as even if I understand level 2 runes I need more powerful soul sense and much better qi control to be able to 'code' them the way I want to and even if I have help from more powerful formations like 'qi control' and qi gathering' formation working in conjunction .

I tried it with various formations some that I had designed myself but still couldn't make level 2 runes , well runes and formations are usually personal anyway as they are like framework of rules in which we have to create something using the we are given , its just both of them uses different set of rules and I compare runes with programming while I compare formation with geometry while depending on the type of qi available in the environment .

I think I would need meridians if I want to create something as complex as level 2 runes and as for Level 2 formations they are bit more feasible than runes , I don't think I need that level of control over qi or soul sense I but do need very expensive materials to cast without my own qi like qi stones .

Formations can be created in 2 ways which are temporary and permanent , temporary ones are usually one time use and dissipate after the user has accomplished whatever he wanted to do with that and for these kind of formations you don't need very expensive materials but you do need to calculate placement of all the various qi nodes in the environment for which you can use either qi stones or use your own qi.

It will compliment the qi from the environment to fulfill the task but for the permanent ones you need expensive materials but these will also perform the function they are programmed for, even after the caster leaves all they need is free supply of the materials used once they have lost efficacy this is done by the caster by placing various nodes which in turn will manipulate qi from the source or sources designated by the caster to fulfil the required task.

But the environment is ever changing so that's why no one formation will work everywhere or even in that same place you would need someone who has been taught by the person who first laid the formation as every formation master has his or her way of creating the nodes manipulating the energy .

The thing with the formations is you can create a formation as long as you can calculate all the nodes required to create the formation you designed for that environment and I think I have a chance to master level 2 formations before I even awaken my meridians as although they need lot of qi control and soul sense it's not at the level of runes.

Especially for the permanent ones but these kind of formations also take a lot of time to be laid down compared to the temporary ones which can be created in few seconds if the person has already calculated all the nodes but but for anything higher, I would need to upgrade my soul sense greatly.

As just to create these level 2 ones calculation needed is already quite large and my soul sense is not enough calculate the nodes in few 10s of seconds like for the level one formations which honestly will shock any formation master if they learned about it.

I have already designed level 2 runes but not level 2 formations as I think my knowledge is still not enough but I will soon try to create formations of that level as runes affair level are not possible before I gain my meridians, I am already 4 years old now and it will take only one more year before I can create runes of that level as well but till then I will focus on formations and theory regarding soul and qi and their relation to cultivation. I have a feeling that I will gain a lot on the day of my Meridian formation.

For Now let's focus on the task at hand

Ning Rong was speeding around the cave using her left eyes ability and all I was able to see what's the bloody figure in the pink lightning colour of lightning actually peeked my interest quite a bit , I think it has something to do with how her qi is taking on the properties of lightning from the world an imbuing it in her using her left eye.

She gotten much better lately and doesn't need to move only straight lines, even Ning Lian seem impressed by her comprehension of her abilities .

In the dimly lit cave, Ning Rong's figure moved with lightning speed, a blur of motion as she darted back and forth with unparalleled agility. Her movements were fluid and precise, guided by a newfound mastery over her abilities. Each step she took seemed to crackle with energy, her body enveloped in a faint aura of pink lightning.

As I watched her, my curiosity was piqued by the mesmerizing display before me. The pink lightning, tinged with hues of violet and indigo, danced around her form like a living entity, weaving intricate patterns in the air with each swift movement. It was as if she had become one with the lightning itself, harnessing its power with effortless grace.

Her left eye, bathed in the same vibrant hues as the lightning and showing that signature pink four petaled flower which was faintly visible in her eyes which now seem even more mezmerising with her eyes now having become even more beautiful after her meridians formed gaining various shades of hues , gleamed with intensity as she focused her gaze ahead.

With a flicker of concentration, bolts of pink lightning surged forth from her eye, illuminating the cave with their brilliant glow. The air crackled with energy as the lightning arced through the space, leaving a trail of shimmering sparks in its wake.

Despite the ferocity of her abilities, Ning Rong moved with remarkable control and precision. Gone were the days when she could only move in straight lines; now, she navigated the cavernous space with ease, her movements fluid and agile. Even Ning Lian, typically reserved in her praise, couldn't help but express admiration for her daughter's progress.

As Ning Rong continued to zip around the cave, her movements became almost hypnotic, drawing me further into the spectacle before me. It was as if she had tapped into a primal force of nature, channeling its raw power with a finesse that belied her years.

In that moment, surrounded by the crackling energy of her lightning, Ning Rong appeared as a figure of untamed beauty and power. Her hair, illuminated by the soft glow of the pink lightning, cascaded around her shoulders like a shimmering waterfall, and her eyes sparkled.

We have both been training in sword as well as hand to hand combat for the past half a year as she insisted I train with her or she wont even train but I think that was mostly because she doesn't like to play with other kids as she still resents them for ignoring her before she was made future clan leader and by the way I think there are guards around this cave tasked with protecting her.

" Rong come here , let's start your lesson regarding lightning again , you have understood a lot but I'm going to explain it again and listen carefully". I said as I placed another 'Sound proofing" formation around us both in just 20 seconds , its only Grade 1 formation and temporary so it only one qi stone .

Chapter 14 : Two years ( part 2)

Explaining the concept of lightning to Ning Rong, who hails from a cultivation world where the understanding of natural phenomena might differ from our own, requires a comprehensive approach that delves into both scientific principles and mystical theories.

I weaved together knowledge from both realms to shed light on the enigmatic nature of lightning.

"Alright, Ning Rong, let's talk about lightning," I began, settling down beside her as we gazed out at the distant horizon. "Imagine a vast expanse of sky, filled with swirling clouds and charged particles.

When conditions are just right, these particles begin to interact in a way that produces a powerful discharge of energy—a phenomenon we call lightning."

Ning Rong nodded attentively, her eyes alight with curiosity. "But how does it happen? And what does it have to do with cultivation?"

"Ah, those are excellent questions," I replied, pondering how best to explain the intricate workings of nature to someone whose understanding was rooted in the mystical arts of cultivation.

"Let's start with the basics ,, now i am going to explain it in more detail , pay attention. "

"Its brilliant flashes and thunderous roars have inspired awe and wonder, while its powerful energy has sparked both fear and fascination.

Formation of Lightning:

At its core, lightning is a natural phenomenon resulting from the buildup and discharge of electrical energy in the atmosphere.

It occurs when regions of positive and negative electrical charges develop within a cloud, or between a cloud and the ground.

These charges are generated through a complex interplay of atmospheric conditions, including the movement of air masses, temperature differentials, and the presence of water vapor.

As clouds form and moisture condenses, water droplets and ice particles collide, creating friction and generating static electricity.

This process leads to the separation of positive and negative charges within the cloud, with positive charges congregating near the top and negative charges accumulating near the bottom.

Lets put it in a different way to make it a little easier for you to understand

Negative charges in lightning can be likened to the yin principle due to their tendency to accumulate and concentrate within the lower regions of thunderclouds.

Within these clouds, processes such as ice crystal collisions and water droplet interactions lead to the separation of charges, with negative charges predominating in the lower portions.

This accumulation of negative charge creates an excess of yin energy within the cloud, seeking balance and equilibrium with the surrounding environment.

Conversely, positive charges in lightning align with the yang principle, embodying qualities of activity, expansion, and outward movement.

Positive charges typically accumulate in the upper regions of thunderclouds, forming a region of positive charge known as the cloud top.

This concentration of positive energy represents the dynamic and assertive nature of yang, striving to assert itself and interact with the surrounding atmosphere.

When the electrical potential difference between the negatively charged lower regions of the cloud and the positively charged upper regions becomes sufficiently large, it sets the stage for the discharge of lightning.

This discharge serves to equalize the opposing charges, restoring balance and harmony to the atmospheric system.

In this process, the yin-negative charges flow towards the yang-positive charges, seeking to unite and neutralize the electrical imbalance.

Through the lens of yin and yang, lightning can be viewed as a manifestation of the dynamic interplay between opposing forces, seeking balance and harmony within the natural world.

When the electrical potential difference between these charged regions becomes sufficiently large, it can overcome the insulating properties of the air and trigger a rapid discharge of electricity—what we perceive as lightning.

This discharge typically occurs along a channel of ionized air, known as a lightning bolt, which can extend for several miles and reach temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun.

Lightning exhibits a myriad of properties that contribute to its awe-inspiring nature and its profound impact on the environment. Some of the key properties of lightning include:

Luminosity: Lightning emits intense bursts of visible light, ranging in color from brilliant white to vivid shades of blue, purple, and even red.

This luminosity results from the rapid heating of the air along the lightning channel, causing it to emit photons , you can ignore this for now just think of them as particles , in the form of visible light.

Heat: Lightning bolts can reach temperatures which are extremely high to the point where it can melt metals and rocks ten times over, making them hotter than the surface of the sun which you might have also read about in your basic education given to every clan kid .

This extreme heat causes the surrounding air to rapidly expand and contract, producing the characteristic thunderclaps that accompany lightning strikes.

Sound: The rapid expansion and contraction of air molecules due to the intense heat of a lightning bolt create shock waves that propagate outward in all directions.

These shock waves, known as thunder, produce the booming sound we hear following a lightning strike.

The distance between the observer and the lightning determines the time delay between the flash of lightning and the rumble of thunder, allowing us to estimate the distance of a storm , as light travels faster than sound although this is just an extra tid bit you can ignore

Electrical Energy: Lightning carries a tremendous amount of electrical energy, which i suspect is inter changeable as people might have called electricity concept as lightning concept ,this energy can have profound effects on the environment, ranging from igniting wildfires to burning someone to a crisp and of course lightning is the bane of soul based cultivators and beasts which are otherwise considered extremely hard to beat at same level due to their mysterious nature ." I Finished a bit exhausted.

"But what is electricity , I forgot what it is, can you explain one more time, please?" she said with a red face .

I took a moment to gather my thoughts before explaining electricity to Ning Rong.

"Alright, let's start with the basics," I began. "Electricity is a form of energy. It's a bit like lightning, but it's not always as dramatic."

Ning Rong nodded, her expression curious as she listened intently.

"Imagine tiny particles called electrons," I continued. "These electrons are like little charged particles that move around. When they flow in a certain direction, we call it electricity."

"So, it's like the lightning I can control?" Ning Rong interjected, her eyes bright with understanding.

"Yes, exactly!" I exclaimed, pleased with her insight. "But lightning is just one form of electricity. There are many other ways electricity can be generated and used."

Ning Rong furrowed her brow in thought. "But how does it work? How do the electrons move?"

"Well, there are different ways to make electrons move," I explained. "One common way is through something called a circuit.

Think of it like a pathway that the electrons can travel along."

Ning Rong nodded, seeming to grasp the concept. "So, if there's a pathway for the electrons to follow, then they can create electricity?"

"Exactly!" I replied, impressed by her quick understanding. "And we can control how the electrons flow by using things like wires and ny cutting the flow of qi at the right moment ."

Ning Rong's eyes widened with interest. "So, electricity is like a river, and we can control where it flows?"

"Exactly!" I exclaimed, pleased with her analogy. "And just like a river, we can use electricity to power all sorts of techniques."

Ning Rong grinned, clearly excited by the idea. "That's amazing! I never knew electricity was so fascinating."

I smiled at her enthusiasm. "It really is! And the more you learn about it, the more you'll be able to do with your abilities."

Ning Rong nodded eagerly, her curiosity piqued. "I can't wait to learn more!"

She frowned, clearly struggling to grasp the concept. "But where does my electricity come from? And why does it look like... pink lightning?"

I smiled, impressed by her keen observation. "Well, there are several theories about that. lightning is believed to be caused by the buildup of static electricity within clouds, which is then discharged in the form of a lightning bolt.

As for the color, it can vary depending on factors like the gases in the atmosphere and the temperature, here is it probably has more to do do with person's Qi being infused in it ."

Ning Rong nodded slowly, absorbing the information. "So, what you're saying is that lightning is a natural phenomenon caused by electricity in the sky?"

"Exactly!" I exclaimed, pleased by her understanding. "But here's where things get interesting. In the world of cultivation, there are various theories about the relationship between qi—the life force that permeates all living beings—and the elements of nature.

Some believe that qi can interact with these elements, and imbuing user with their special properties or even harnessing their power for cultivation."

Her eyes widened with fascination. "So, you're saying that lightning could be a manifestation of qi interacting with the elements?"

"It's certainly one possibility," I replied, choosing my words carefully.

"In cultivation, there are legends of cultivators who can control the elements themselves, manipulating wind, water, fire, and yes, even lightning, with their mastery of qi.

It's believed that by attuning oneself to the natural world and harnessing the flow of qi, one can tap into the elemental forces that govern our universe."

Ning Rong's expression was a mix of wonder and excitement. "That sounds incredible! But how does it help me? I can control lightning, isn't it ?"

I chuckled, ruffling her hair affectionately. "No you control it only because of your innate ability in your left eye. But who knows what the future holds? With your talent and determination, anything is possible.

Perhaps one day, you'll be able to channel the power of lightning itself, weaving it into your martial arts or cultivation techniques."

As we sat there, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the mysteries of the natural world—and the boundless potential that lay within each of us to unlock its secrets.

And as I looked into Ning Rong's eyes, shining with newfound understanding, I knew that her journey of understanding was only just beginning.

As I reflected on my progress in the past year and a half, it was evident that my focus on formation had yielded significant results.

Despite my relatively young age, my understanding of formation principles had grown to a level comparable to that of a grade 2 formation master.

However, while my theoretical knowledge was solid, I knew that practical application was essential to truly master the art.

With my meridian awakening ceremony scheduled for tomorrow, I decided to postpone any further testing of my formation skills for the time being.

This ceremony marked a significant milestone in my cultivation journey, and I wanted to ensure that I was fully prepared both mentally and physically.

Additionally, my adoptive mother had been eagerly anticipating the arrival of a visitor next week, someone who seemed to hold great importance to her.

The excitement in her demeanour was palpable, piquing my curiosity about the identity of this guest and the individual or indivisuals they were bringing along.