Xi Shen's POV
Looking at Elder Ji, who was about to leave, I quickly thanked him, "Thank you for everything, Elder Ji!" Yingshu smiled and a small smile appeared on Elder Ji's face. He coughed and looked rather pleased with himself. He turned around and in a strange voice said, "Before I come back, you better become the Inner Disciple, understood?"
'Inner Disciple? That's at least Foundation Establishment.' The high expectations that Elder Ji had for me were encouraging. Yingshu patted me on the back, his eyes filled with confidence, "Don't worry, Young Master. With your potential, it's only a matter of time before you achieve that."
I clenched my fists, feeling a surge of determination. 'I have to become stronger, not just for myself but for my family and those who believe in me.' As Elder Ji was leaving, I replied, "Yes!"
Zhen Ning turned toward me and said, "Young Master, we should enter, the token is probably the key, just inject it with qi." Nodding at Zhen Ning's advice, I took a deep breath and held the token in my hand. I focused my qi, feeling the familiar warmth of energy surge through my veins and into the token. As I did, it began to glow with a soft, pink light, resonating with the barrier before us.
The barrier shimmered and parted like a curtain, revealing the path ahead into the Harmony Blossom Sect. I could feel the anticipation and curiosity of the sect members, their eyes on me as I stepped forward.
Entering the sect's grounds, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty around me. The vibrant flowers, the gentle hum of spiritual energy, and the harmonious atmosphere created an almost otherworldly sense of peace. It was hard to believe that such tranquility could exist in a world filled with so much turmoil.
Yingshu and Zhen Ning guided me toward the main hall, which was conspicuously empty except for us. The tension in the air was palpable, and I could feel the weight of the challenge ahead. Elder Zhong, with his stern expression and commanding presence, addressed me directly. "Welcome, Xi Shen, child of Fenfeng. Although the recruitment ended four years ago, the special nature of your token has granted you this rare opportunity. However, you will be tested alone. Your companions cannot accompany you inside."
I looked at Yingshu and Zhen Ning, feeling a mixture of gratitude and sadness. They had guided and protected me thus far, and now I had to continue alone. Zhen Ning gave me a reassuring smile. "Young Master, this is your journey. We have faith in you."
Yingshu nodded, his eyes full of confidence. "Prove your worth, and we will be waiting for you when you become a disciple." I steeled myself, remembering Elder Ji's words and the high expectations placed upon me. This was my chance to prove myself, to show that I was worthy of the trust and belief that others had in me.
Elder Zhong continued, "You'll participate in all three tests alone, not because you're special but because you're late. The first test is Temperament. You will enter the illusion and won't remember this life."
He took out a small glowing orb, its light a mesmerizing mixture of red and purple, giving off a strange sensation. "This is the Orb of Reflection. It will pull you into a strong illusion, designed to test the depths of your character and resolve. In the illusion, you won't remember your current life. Only by demonstrating exceptional temperament will you be able to return, and by that I mean to become a cultivator."
I felt a mix of apprehension and determination. The thought of forgetting everything and facing unknown challenges was daunting, but I knew this was a crucial step. Elder Zhong placed the Orb of Reflection in my hands, its warmth spreading through me. "Prepare yourself, Xi Shen. The journey within will be unlike anything you've faced before."
With a deep breath, I focused my mind, allowing the orb's light to envelop me. The world around me began to blur, and I felt a pull as the illusion took hold.
When I again opened my eyes, I was surrounded by trees. A gentle breeze blew past me, carrying leaves that danced in the air. The scene was tranquil, a stark contrast to the chaos I had been thrust into. The smell of blood hit my nostrils as I realized I was holding something. A dead gray rabbit. I dropped it immediately, "What the hell!"
I was taller than myself, and by the feel, I had shorter hair. 'I need to find a mirror.' But the one thing I felt was, 'I'm weaker, not just in the strength aspect, even my perception is weaker, my mind is slower. So this is how you feel when you lose cultivation suddenly.'
I also felt something on my back, it was a bow and arrow.
'This is an illusion, but how do I remember everything? Shouldn't you forget everything once in the illusion?' Pondering quietly, my arrival in this world came to mind, especially the words of The Great One, 'He said I'm 993rd place in all the souls he'd seen; that must account for something. Or is it this?'
"Status" I called out, and the familiar blue screen appeared, following my vision.
{Status}
[Name: Zi Fenyuan (Xi Shen 喜神)]
[Age: 17/60 (12/110)]
[Inheritance: None (Master of Devine Palace(Immortal Emperor) #Mortal Part)]
[Cultivation: Mortal (6th level of Qi Gathering)]
[Root: Two Element Root - Mortal Grade (Six Element Root - Heavenly Grade)]
[Spells: None]
[Arts: None]
[Looks: Beautiful (Above Average)]
Looking at my status, I devised a plan to achieve the cultivation level of Qi Gathering. 'Looks like it won't be easy, especially now that I have Two Element Spirit Root, and Mortal Grade at that. It will be hard for me to enter a sect with these limitations.'
Suddenly a surge of memories entered my mind-space, like I was watching a super long movie with bits and pieces missing. 'One more reason why mortals can't compare to cultivators, memory problems, but it's manageable.'
A breeze blew past me, carrying leaves that created a tranquil scene. The blood smell broke the tranquility, 'I need to do something about this blood. Also...' Searching through the memories of Zi Fenyuan, I got an idea of this world.
It has the same cultivation system, divided into Early, Middle, Late, and Perfect stages. 'Although Zi Fenyuan is mortal, he's quite strong because of the hunting and has reached Body Tempering 1st level. This world also has martial artists, but even the strongest martial artists are weaker than early-stage qi gathering cultivators.'
#Reality#
Training Grounds, Harmony Blossom Sect, Zheng Dynasty
Elder Zhong's POV
It was an ordinary day in the Outer Sect, some disciples fought, some conversed, and some held secret grudges. It was all clear to me, but when I felt that familiar aura, 'Someone has passed Sect's Protection Barrier with a key?'
I looked toward the direction of the disturbance and keenly felt the aura: "Xi Fenfeng?! No, impossible!" And sure, it was. She had been dead for over a decade.
As I stepped closer, I saw three figures, two old men and a child, 'Foundation Establishment 4th and 2nd level! They must be the Dao Protectors of this child. It's good I broke through the 6th level not long ago.'
Looking at his piercing green eyes, his long silky black hair, and the temperament he had it was a spitting image of someone I know, 'Xi Li? That brat had a son? Then it must be hers son as well.'
I watched them from a distance, and tried to overhear his name, an elderly voice entered my mind, 'His name is Xi Shen, he's here for the entrance exam, you don't have to worry Junior Brother Zhong.'
The voice I recognized immediately, 'Senior Brother Ji, what are your instructions?' However, as no reply came, I assumed just to proceed as usual.
So I put on the air of an expert.
#After the test began#
Looking at Xi Shen's meditating figure, anticipation filled me, 'Xi Fenfeng entered the illusion and came out after five days, now her son entered the illusion I wonder how long will he last.'
#In the illusion#
Xi Shen's POV
The first thought that came to mind was, 'I should head to the village, Zi Fenyuan was a famous warrior and always brought a good harvest to the village. So I should also do that not to be suspicious.'
Steadily, I walked through the forest, the sound of rustling leaves filling the air. As I'd inherited the whole set of skills that Zi Fenyuan had, I also inherited his instinctual path-finding ability. The surroundings were familiar yet strange, a mix of my memories and his.
The village came into view, a collection of modest huts surrounded by fields. Villagers glanced up from their work as I approached, some nodding in acknowledgment. I spotted a stream nearby, perfect for washing away the blood on my hands. Kneeling by the water, I scrubbed the crimson stains off, watching the current carry them away.
A woman approached her face a blend of concern and curiosity. "Fenyuan, are you alright? You seem different today."
I forced a smile, trying to emulate Zi Fenyuan's usual demeanor. "I'm fine. Just a rough hunt," I replied, standing up and slinging the bow over my shoulder.
The woman, Gong Huajian, had silky brown hair held in a small bun and wore a simple blue dress. She was beautiful with delicate features and a gentle yet strong presence.
She had been Zi Fenyuan's sweetheart, making my situation even more complicated. Her eyes lingered on me, searching for something familiar.
"Fenyuan, you can tell me if something's wrong. I know you better than you think," she said softly, stepping closer.
I felt a pang of guilt and confusion. While I carried Zi Fenyuan's memories and skills, my feelings were my own. The lines between our identities blurred, making it hard to navigate this relationship.
"I promise, everything is fine," I said, hoping she wouldn't see through the facade. "Just need to clear my mind."
She nodded, though her eyes held a trace of doubt, "Alright, but if you need anything, I'm here."
As she walked away, I realized that maintaining Zi Fenyuan's life would be more challenging than I anticipated. I needed to leave quickly, so it doesn't raise suspicion, 'I should probably head home and try to cultivate Dao of Longevity, now that I have my memories I should use them.'
Searching through Zi Fenyuan's memories I quickly found my way around the village toward my home. It was a simple wooden house, surrounded by a small garden of different plants, and in the backyard was a training ground.
Zi Fenyuan's parents passed in an accident three years ago, and that's when he started to practice Martial Arts. The house felt both familiar and foreign. Taking a deep breath I opened the door, and what awaited me was neatly arranged furniture and a sparkly clean interior.
A chuckle escaped my mouth, "He sure likes to clean. This would be called OCD back on Earth." As my time on Earth came to mind I couldn't help but recall it.
Memories of my sister first popped into my mind, 'Sara, I hoped we would live together forever, but that driver had to be there that day.'
The pain of losing her resurfaced, mingling with the current uncertainty of my situation. It was a bittersweet reminder of the life I had left behind. I could almost hear Sara's laughter, see her smile, and feel the warmth of our shared moments.
'I need to focus,' I reminded myself, pushing the memories aside. This was not the time for nostalgia. I had a new life and challenges to face here.
I made my way to the backyard, where the training ground awaited. The space was well-worn, with wooden dummies and various training equipment scattered around, but most worn out were the bullseye targets.
'Cultivation of Dao of Longevity requires a calm mind, I could bypass it with my talent and physique but Zi Fenyuan's talent is bad.' I tried to feel spiritual energy but it didn't come naturally as it did when I was Xi Shen. The difference was stark and frustrating.
The familiar sensation of drawing upon spiritual energy felt distant and elusive. Zi Fenyuan's body wasn't attuned to it in the same way. I closed my eyes, taking deep breaths to center myself. The rustling leaves and distant village sounds created a serene backdrop, but my mind raced.
'I must adapt. This illusion is testing my ability to overcome limitations, even those of the body I inhabit.' I focused harder, pushing past the physical constraints, determined to reach the spiritual energy.
Minutes turned into hours as I persisted, sweat dripping down my brow. Slowly, faint traces of spiritual energy began to respond, like delicate threads weaving through my consciousness. It was faint, but it was progress.
I recited the mantra of the Dao of Longevity, 'One becomes Yin and Yang, Yin and Yang become Three Purities, Three Purities become Six Elements, Six Elements transform into Eight Trigrams, Eight Trigrams fuse into One'
As I chanted the words, I focused on the meanings behind them, visualizing the transformations and fusions described. Each phrase guided my mind and qi, aligning them with the cosmic principles. The mantra served as both a mental anchor and a spiritual conduit, helping me tap into the elusive spiritual energy.
Slowly, I felt the energy within me begin to stir, responding to the ancient words. It was faint, a mere whisper compared to the roaring currents I was accustomed to as Xi Shen, but it was there. The connection between my past life and this illusion began to solidify, reinforcing my resolve.
The process was painstakingly slow, each moment requiring immense concentration. I could feel the limitations of Zi Fenyuan's body, and his lack of innate talent, but I pushed through, driven by the mantra and my determination.
Hours passed, the sun dipping below the horizon, casting long shadows across the training ground. The faint glow of spiritual energy flickered within me, a testament to my efforts. I knew this was just the beginning, but it was a step forward.
Day after day I didn't move an inch, as days passed my hunger began to rise, but I could feel it I was close, after the third day a knock on the door disturbed my seclusion. The sound echoed through the stillness, pulling me out of my deep meditative state.
Reluctantly, I opened my eyes, the faint glow of spiritual energy dissipating. Rising to my feet, I felt the stiffness in my muscles and the gnawing hunger in my stomach. I walked towards the door, wondering who would be visiting at this critical moment.
Opening the door, I was met with the concerned eyes of Gong Huajian. Her silky brown hair was still held in a small bun, and she wore the same simple blue dress.
"Fenyuan, you've been inside for days. Are you alright?" Her voice was a mix of worry and relief.
I nodded, trying to hide the weariness in my eyes. "I'm fine, Huajian. Just... focused on my training."
She handed me a small basket filled with food. "I brought you something to eat. You need to take care of yourself."
Grateful, I accepted the basket, the aroma of freshly cooked food making my stomach growl. "Thank you, Huajian. I appreciate it."
She hesitated, her eyes searching mine. "If you ever need to talk or if something is troubling you, I'm here. Don't keep everything to yourself."
I smiled, feeling a pang of guilt and gratitude. "I won't. Thank you for looking out for me."
As she turned to leave, I closed the door and returned to the training ground. Sitting down, I ate the food she brought, savoring each bite. Her kindness reminded me of the connections Zi Fenyuan had in this world and the challenges of maintaining his life while pursuing my own goals.
After finishing the meal, I resumed my meditation, reciting the mantra of the Dao of Longevity once more. And the progress was visible, I was here, 'So this is the famous door of cultivation. Once I open it, it'll be the beginning of the journey. But how will I end the test?'
Putting that thought in the back of my mind, I once again focused on the cultivation of the Dao of Longevity. The door appeared in front of me. As I tried to push it open, it slowly did. The creaking sound reverberated through my consciousness, marking the threshold between ordinary life and the path of cultivation.
The energy surrounding me intensified, enveloping me in a warm, invigorating embrace. I felt the surge of spiritual power flood my being, integrating with my essence. The door to cultivation had been opened, and with it came a sense of profound clarity and purpose.
I could feel my connection to the spiritual energy solidify, the principles of the Dao of Longevity resonating within me.
That's when everything around me started to crack, like breaking glass, it shattered. I opened my eyes and saw Elder Zhong looking at me in awe. The illusion had ended, and I was back in the reality of the Harmony Blossom Sect.
The weight of the past few days—or what felt like years in the illusion—settled on me. I could feel the residual effects of my cultivation efforts, a testament to the progress I had made.
Elder Zhong's expression was a mix of surprise and admiration. "Xi Shen, you've done exceptionally well," he said, his voice filled with respect. "To come out of the illusion so quickly and with such poise... It's truly remarkable."
I took a deep breath, steadying myself. "Thank you, Elder Zhong. It was a challenging experience, but I've learned a great deal."
He nodded, his eyes still holding that glimmer of awe. "You have passed the first test with flying colors. Now, prepare yourself for the next challenge. Your journey is just beginning."
As I stood up, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The illusion had tested my resolve, but it had also shown me the depth of my potential.