~3rd Person's POV~
Sixteen days had slipped away since Xu Fang achieved his seventh breakthrough. Today marked the day of the test orchestrated by his mother and stepmothers to gauge his progress.
Alongside intensifying his cultivation efforts, Xu Fang immersed himself in extensive studies within the Love of Goddesses treasured library. After thoroughly exploring the Yin and Yang Path-related texts, he shifted his focus to books on alchemy and the magical beasts inhabiting their world.
The Cultivation Chamber became an invaluable asset in his pursuit of accelerated cultivation. Leveraging its capabilities, Xu Fang concentrated solely on absorbing Yin and Yang Qi from the Moon, Sun, and the ladies around him. Following this, he retreated into the treasure, cultivating within the Cultivation Chamber to further enhance his progress.
In the grand throne hall, Xu Fang faced his mother and stepmothers, Zheng Yu, Shen Yin, Lie Ning, and Long Xiu, seated on imposing thrones. His sisters stood a few steps away, witnessing the upcoming test.
Having already shared his focus on alchemy and magical beasts, Xu Fang prepared for the impending examination.
"Are you ready for the test?" Zheng Yu inquired, her tone serious and intent.
"Yes," Xu Fang affirmed with a confident nod, preparing himself for the questions ahead.
"Alright then, let's start with my questions first," Zheng Yu declared, initiating the test with the first inquiry.
"First question: Can you tell me to name a potent herb beneficial for users of the light element and detail its unique properties in improving their abilities?" Zheng Yu posed her initial question.
"The Celestial Iris Blossom stands out as the most effective herb for those attuned to the light element. Its petals emit a gentle glow, and when transformed into a powder and ingested, it augments a cultivator's ability to manipulate light.
This herb enables them to emanate a more radiant and expansive light, uncovering hidden truths and effortlessly dispelling darkness. The Celestial Iris Blossom is highly valued for its distinctive capability to enhance the powers of those practicing the light element," Xu Fang confidently responded to Zheng Yu's first question.
"Good. For the second question, can you mention an herb that proves beneficial for an Earth Element cultivator and explain why?" Zheng Yu presented her second query.
"The Blackstone Root herb, Mother. It resonates harmoniously with the Earth Element, deepening our connection to the earth's energies. Furthermore, it fortifies our physical and spiritual core, providing the stability required for optimal cultivation," Xu Fang replied confidently to her second question.
"Now, for my first question: Can you identify the most elusive magical beast associated with the wind element and reveal the secret it holds?" Shen Yin posed her first question.
"The most elusive magical beast associated with the wind element is the Zephyr Serpent. This magnificent creature guards the secret of Windweave, a technique that empowers cultivators to manipulate air currents with unmatched precision. The Zephyr Serpent's wisdom is shrouded in mystery, and it's believed that only those with a pure heart can earn its trust," Xu Fang responded to Shen Yin's first question.
"Great. Now, for my second question: For a water element cultivator looking to enhance their abilities, which herb would you recommend, and why?" Shen Yin posed her second question.
"The Lotus Root Herb stands out as the perfect choice for water element practitioners. Not only does it resonate with the essence of water, but it also fosters mental clarity and spiritual purity. Its healing properties contribute to a swift recovery from injuries, allowing one to regain energy promptly. Symbolizing the resilience of water, the Lotus Root thrives even in muddy environments, remaining untarnished," Xu Fang replied to her second question.
"Now, it's my turn. My first question is, What herb do you consider the most beneficial for fire element cultivators?" Lie Ning presented her first question.
"The most fitting herb for fire element practitioners is the 'Inferno Blossom.' Flourishing in volcanic regions, this herb, when cultivated with precise rituals, absorbs the essence of fire. When its leaves and petals are ingested or incorporated into elixirs, they enhance the user's fire-based abilities, providing better control over flames and increased resistance to extreme heat," Xu Fang responded to her first question.
"Excellent. Now, for my second question: Can you identify a lightning-type magical beast native to the Thundering Peaks and outline its distinctive abilities?" Lie Ning presented her second question.
"One remarkable lightning-type magical beast in the Thundering Peaks is the Thunderclap Gryphon. Its wings produce sonic booms when flapped, and its claws deliver electrifying shocks.
Its standout ability lies in summoning and manipulating lightning bolts for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. Paired with its aerial prowess, the Thunderclap Gryphon stands as a formidable guardian of the peaks." Xu Fang answered her second question.
"Great. Now, it's my turn for questions, starting with the first one. Can you identify a notable plant exclusive to the Enchanted Grove and detail its distinct properties and applications?" Long Xiu presented her first question.
"One notable plant exclusive to the Enchanted Grove is the Celestial Lotus. With radiant petals emitting a soft, ethereal glow, its roots possess potent regenerative properties.
The Celestial Lotus stands out for its ability to purify water, facilitate wound healing, and offer spiritual enlightenment when consumed as a carefully prepared tea. Revered for its healing and spiritual benefits, its radiant beauty symbolizes purity," Xu Fang responded to her first question.
"Now, for my second question: Can you name a darkness-type magical beast residing in the Shadowed Woods and elucidate on its unique abilities?" Long Xiu presented her second question.
"One remarkable darkness-type magical beast in the Shadowed Woods is the Umbral Panther. Possessing fur that seamlessly blends with the darkness, it becomes nearly invisible at night.
Its exceptional ability lies in controlling the shadows and shaping them into tendrils and illusions. Additionally, it moves through the darkness with remarkable swiftness, establishing itself as a stealthy and formidable predator," Xu Fang concluded, addressing the last question of the test.
"Well done, Xu Fang. Your answers were impressive, and you have proven yourself," Zheng Yu commended Xu Fang with pride evident in her expression.
"Thank you, Mother," Xu Fang expressed his gratitude.
"Congratulations, Xu Fang. You are now free to pursue your studies without the burden of tests," Shen Yin announced with a smile.
"I'm genuinely happy for you, Xu Fang," Lie Ning added with a cheerful expression.
"Fantastic job, Xu Fang. Keep up the good work," Long Xiu encouraged him with a beaming smile.
"Little brother, your knowledge of cultivation is remarkable. I'm amazed; you know things even I wasn't aware of," Xu Min praised, with her sisters nodding in agreement.
Internally, they were all astounded by Xu Fang's depth of knowledge. They had posed challenging questions, expecting him to falter, but he not only answered correctly but showcased a level of understanding that surprised them. While maintaining a composed exterior, they were thrilled to witness his genius. Now, they eagerly awaited the day when Xu Fang would unlock his Elements Qi, and ascend as a formidable cultivator.
"It's nothing; mothers just asked relatively straightforward questions, and that's why I managed to pass the test with ease." Xu Fang casually downplayed his notable achievement to his sisters, adding a touch of modesty.
The notion of 'easy questions' echoed intriguingly in the minds of his sisters, their perplexity evident in their expressions.
"Mother, there's something else I'd like to share with you," Xu Fang announced, effectively capturing the undivided attention of his mothers, stepmothers, and sisters alike.
His proclamation created an air of anticipation, and with a calm demeanor, he proceeded to unveil the news, a revelation that left them collectively stunned.
"I've recently achieved a breakthrough, attaining the fifth stage of Qi Meridian, and now, all 30 of my Meridians have blossomed into openness."
Despite already being at the advanced seventh stage, Xu Fang had deliberately manipulated the settings of the Love of Goddesses treasure, presenting the facade of operating at the fifth stage. The weight of this revelation took a moment to settle in, eliciting a wave of astonishment across his family.
Responding to this profound news, Long Xiu, his third stepmother, gracefully approached him. With a subtle yet purposeful movement, she picked up his wrist and conducted a thorough Qi check, a silent confirmation of the validity of his claim. Affirming the achievement, she nodded approvingly before returning to her seat, acknowledging Xu Fang's remarkable prowess and dedication to his cultivation journey.
'Hu... it's close,' Xu Fang exhaled deeply, his thoughts echoing within.
Aware that individuals possessing expertise in the eight Realms could easily discern his cultivation level, Xu Fang, however, harbored doubts about Long Xiu's ability to unveil the truth through touch. According to his understanding, the Love of Goddesses treasure only manifested its features after breaking through to the Qi Initiate Realm, whereas he was currently at the Qi Meridians (Qi Disciple) stage. Witnessing Long Xiu's nod of approval, Xu Fang breathed a sigh of relief.
Before the Elements Qi Awakening Process, it was a well-known practice not to disclose one's Qi Meridian stage to others unless there was a direct physical interaction involving their Qi.
"Congratulations, Xu Fang. But achieving this in such a short time is quite remarkable. How did you manage it?" Zheng Yu inquired with genuine curiosity.
"Oh, Mother, it's nothing extraordinary. I've simply begun engaging in physical practice and meditation in an open atmosphere. I believe it has significantly contributed to my progress," Xu Fang explained, attributing his breakthrough to a disciplined regimen of physical training and meditation.
Anticipating the potential shock his family might experience upon learning about his recent breakthrough, Xu Fang was well aware of the prevailing circumstances. Xu Zhi had faced challenges in her cultivation for the past three months, while both Xu Ling and Xu Jing had achieved their breakthroughs to the sixth stage of Qi Meridian just a few days ago. Given this context, the swift progress Xu Fang had made wasn't something they were likely to expect.
Despite being six months younger than his siblings, Xu Ling and Xu Jing, in the realm of cultivation, Xu Fang found himself only slightly trailing behind them. Moreover, he had achieved his fourth breakthrough just two months prior, further showcasing the accelerated pace of his cultivation journey. The prospect of revealing his recent advancements promised to be a surprise for his family members, who might not have anticipated such rapid progression from him.