For the next couple days Zar simply trained in his room doing pushups and talking to himself planning for the future when he heard of "Immortals" he simply couldnt hold back his joy immortal is the next best thing to becomming a god his ultimate goal: but he obviously wouldnt stop there he just knew he had to take action and get to this academy since hes been trying to feel this energy and cultivate but his Earthly meditation techniques didnt really work.
Despite his ambitions, Zar played the part of a loving son well and he truly enjoyed their company he wasnt used to it. Mikhail and Anya were kind-hearted, simple folk, genuinely concerned for their son's well-being. Zar took note of their routines and their unwavering dedication to their family and the village.
One morning, as Zar was finishing his training, Mikhail entered the room. "Zar, would you like to come to town with me to sell crops?" he asked, his voice gentle yet firm.
Zar saw this as an opportunity to learn more about the world he was now in. "Of course, father," he replied, estacticly. He knew he could gain some insight of things there
They loaded their cart with freshly harvested vegetables and fruits. Zar watched as Mikhail carefully placed each item, the pride of his hard work evident in his eyes. The journey to town was a quiet one, with Mikhail occasionally pointing out landmarks and sharing stories of the land.
As they approached the bustling market in StoneHaven, Zar observed the diverse array of people. Farmers, craftsmen, and merchants mingled, their voices creating a symphony of bartering and conversation. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, filled with stalls displaying a variety of goods.
Mikhail led Zar to their usual spot, and they began setting up their stall. "Remember, Zar, always be honest with the customers," Mikhail advised. "Integrity is the most valuable thing we have."
Zar nodded, hiding his disdain for such naive values. Zar slipped away during a unbusy momment. And asked around about the Academies and nearby cities. One Lady told him the capital is just behind the mountains to his south and is about 100 miles. he was told of nearby sects. A taoist sect is the closest but they accept anyone so Zar inwardly knew no good things come cheap. so it would be his last choice, but a demonic sect is 45 miles east. and they are friendly to newcomers apparently and they will check if you have talent and sometimes they goto the villages and ask for recruits. but other than that the other sects dont interact with anyone.
Zar thanked the woman, his mind already plotting his next move. The demonic sect sounded promising, and if they were as open to new recruits as she said, it could be his best option.
He returned to the stall, feigning innocence. Mikhail didn't seem to notice his brief absence, too engrossed in his interactions with customers. As the day drew to a close, they packed up their remaining goods and began the journey back to the village.
On the way back, Mikhail spoke of the village's history, the seasonal cycles, and the legends of cultivators who could harness the world's energy.
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"Father," Zar began cautiously, "tell me more about these cultivators. How do they harness this energy?"
Mikhail smiled, pleased with Zar's curiosity. "Cultivators are individuals who can sense and manipulate the Qi, the life force that flows through everything. They train their bodies and minds to become stronger, often joining sects or academies to hone their skills."
Knights use that life energy to strengthen their body and their weapons. condensing their life energy into their attacks making them stronger than other paths at the same level. but usually their lifespan is at risk. Some of the strongest knights could leap levels in combat using 10-20 years of their lifespan in a minute fight. Usually protecting Nobles or People in Power or their children.
Martial artists are similar to Knights And Cultivators but they simply cultivate their body breaking it and using life energy to rebuild it stronger i dont know much of them since they are usually not human due to the insane pain tolerance required.
And Lastly, Other unique paths their are many but they are very rare and not spoken of like Beast tamers, Energy Controllers, and Many more. But unfortunatelly many of these paths require a unique talent that you may never uncover.
Zar Listened intently, keen on taking as much knowledge in as possible.
He spent the next few days planning his departure meticulously. He needed supplies, maps, and money. His parents had a modest savings hidden in the house, and he knew where they kept it. He also needed to gather information on how to reach the demonic sect without attracting unwanted attention.
Zar began by subtly asking more questions about the region, the routes, and the dangers. He learned that the journey east was fraught with wild beasts and bandits. To an ordinary 14-year-old boy, it would be a perilous trip, so he decided to goto the academy since there were no routes to the East.