### Chapter 10: The Relentless Pursuit
Ming Yue felt a growing frustration as he walked through the bustling streets of Yongan village. Despite his rigorous training and the guidance of Old Man Long, he couldn't shake the feeling that his cultivation was progressing far too slowly. He had always known his father to be exceptionally talented, reaching the Qi Gathering Rank 6 at a young age. Ming Yue couldn't help but compare himself to that high standard and feel inadequate.
Yongan was much larger than the previous village. The market buzzed with activity, vendors calling out to potential customers and displaying an array of goods. The village was a main supplier of various resources, and the diversity of items for sale was staggering. There were stalls selling fresh produce, meats, herbs, and exotic spices. Craftsmen displayed their finely made tools and weapons, while others sold fabrics and clothing. The air was filled with the mingling scents of food and incense, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
One particular item caught Ming Yue's eye: a special type of wood known as Yin Veinwood. This wood was said to be stronger than metal, used primarily for making weapon hilts and other tools. It had a distinctive blue-veined pattern, a result of absorbing the yin element from its environment. The trees that produced this wood grew in the nearby forests, making Yongan a key supplier.
As he walked through the market, Ming Yue overheard conversations about cultivation techniques and methods. Many villagers were discussing their progress and exchanging tips. Ming Yue listened intently, feeling a pang of envy. He knew that without a proper cultivation method, he was at a disadvantage. He had been relying solely on his innate abilities and sheer willpower, but he needed more.
One evening, after a day of searching for odd jobs and gathering information, Ming Yue sat by the river that flowed near the village. The sound of the water was soothing, but his mind was restless. He knew that if he wanted to get stronger, he needed to find a cultivation method. The realization weighed heavily on him.
His thoughts drifted back to his father and the stories he had heard about his exceptional talent. "If only I had my father's talent," he muttered to himself, frustration evident in his voice. He knew that lamenting wouldn't help, but he couldn't help the bitter feeling that rose within him.
As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the landscape, Ming Yue made a decision. He would find a way to obtain a proper cultivation method, no matter what it took. He couldn't afford to be weak, especially with the dangers that lurked in his past and the uncertain future that lay ahead.
The next day, Ming Yue decided to explore the village further. He needed to understand its layout and find potential sources of information. The market was a good place to start, as it was always full of people and conversations. He overheard a few villagers talking about a local scholar who was known to have extensive knowledge about cultivation techniques.
"His name is Scholar Feng," one of the villagers said. "He's a bit reclusive, but if you can get him to talk, he might share some of his wisdom."
Ming Yue took note of the information and decided to seek out Scholar Feng. The scholar lived in a modest house on the outskirts of the village, surrounded by a garden of rare herbs and plants. When Ming Yue arrived, he was greeted by the sight of the elderly man tending to his garden.
"Excuse me, Scholar Feng," Ming Yue called out politely. "I was hoping to speak with you about cultivation techniques."
The old man looked up, his eyes sharp and discerning. "Who are you, and why do you seek this knowledge?"
"My name is Ming Yue," he replied, bowing respectfully. "I've been cultivating on my own, but I feel like I'm not progressing as I should. I was told you might have knowledge that could help me."
Scholar Feng studied him for a moment before shaking his head. "I don't have time for idle chatter. Be gone, boy."
Determined, Ming Yue didn't leave. He camped outside the scholar's house that night, the cold seeping into his bones. He knocked on the door again the next morning, but Scholar Feng refused to see him. For three nights, Ming Yue persisted, knocking on the door, shouting the scholar's name, and even banging on the windows. His actions grew increasingly desperate and annoying.
"Scholar Feng! Please, I need your help!" Ming Yue's voice rang out, hoarse from shouting.
On the fourth day, the door finally swung open, and Scholar Feng's face appeared, a mask of irritation. "Enough! You are more persistent than a mosquito. What do you want?"
Ming Yue bowed deeply, his voice filled with desperation. "Please, Scholar Feng. I need a cultivation method. I'll do anything."
The scholar sighed, rubbing his temples. "You are relentless. Very well, come inside."
Inside the scholar's home, the air was filled with the scent of herbs and old books. Scrolls and manuscripts were piled high on shelves, evidence of years of study and research. Scholar Feng gestured for Ming Yue to sit, and they began to talk.
"You say you're cultivating on your own," Scholar Feng said, his voice thoughtful. "Tell me about your experiences so far."
Ming Yue recounted his journey in vague terms, avoiding any mention of his past in the gladiator pits or his bloodline. He spoke about his struggles with cultivation and his determination to grow stronger.
The scholar listened intently, nodding occasionally. "Cultivating without a proper method is like trying to build a house without a foundation. You need structure and guidance."
Ming Yue nodded, understanding the gravity of the scholar's words. "I know. But I need to get stronger, and I don't have many options."
Scholar Feng leaned back, stroking his beard. "There are ways to enhance your cultivation, but they require dedication and sometimes, sacrifice. I can provide you with a basic method, but you must promise to use it wisely and continue to seek knowledge."
"I promise," Ming Yue said earnestly. "I'll do whatever it takes."
The scholar handed him a scroll, its edges worn with age. "This is a basic cultivation method that should help you stabilize your qi and enhance your growth. Study it carefully and practice diligently. And remember, this is just the beginning. The path to true power is long and arduous."
Ming Yue accepted the scroll with gratitude, feeling a surge of hope. He bowed deeply to Scholar Feng. "Thank you. I won't forget your kindness."
As he left the scholar's house, Ming Yue felt a renewed sense of purpose. He now had a direction, a method to guide his cultivation. The road ahead was still uncertain, but he was determined to follow it, no matter where it led.
Back in his small room, Ming Yue unrolled the scroll and began to study it. The method was straightforward but required intense focus and discipline. He spent hours each day practicing, feeling the qi within him beginning to stabilize and flow more smoothly. The progress was slow, but it was progress nonetheless.
During breaks, he continued to work around the village, earning enough to get by. The villagers grew accustomed to his presence, and he began to feel a sense of belonging. The market, with its vibrant energy and diverse goods, became a familiar place. He often visited the stalls selling Yin Veinwood, marveling at its unique properties and dreaming of the day he could craft his own weapons and tools.
The days turned into weeks, and Ming Yue's cultivation continued to improve. He felt stronger, more focused, and more determined than ever. The thought of his father's legacy no longer felt like a burden but a goal to strive for.
One evening, as he practiced his techniques by the river, he felt a breakthrough. The qi within him surged, flowing through his meridians with unprecedented power. He knew he was close to advancing to the next stage, and the realization filled him with excitement and determination.
As the sun set and the stars began to appear, Ming Yue stood by the river, feeling a deep sense of peace and purpose. He was on the right path, and nothing would stop him from achieving his goals. The journey was just beginning, and he was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.