The first rays of dawn filtered through the tall windows of the cultivation hall, casting a gentle glow over the ancient carvings that lined the walls. Liang Chen was already seated, cross-legged on the smooth stone floor, waiting for Yan Shu to arrive. The previous day's training had left him physically exhausted, but his spirit was invigorated. He was determined to absorb as much as possible from his teacher.
A soft rustle of robes signaled Yan Shu's entrance, her composed and graceful figure commanding the space as she moved to the center of the hall. She met his gaze with a calm intensity.
"You've had your first taste of cultivation practice," she began, her voice steady yet imbued with an unmistakable authority. "But cultivation is more than just absorbing Qi and strengthening the body. It's a lifelong path that requires balance, resilience, and skill."
Liang Chen nodded, focusing intently as Yan Shu's gaze sharpened.
"Today, we will expand on what it means to be a cultivator in the Divine Sword Sect," she continued. "There are many paths and specialties available to those who show talent. These paths can enhance your abilities, broaden your skills, and make you valuable to your sect or clan."
She paused, as though weighing her words, then continued.
"There are four primary professions that most cultivators choose to specialize in, though there are rarer paths that only a few may ever achieve. The most common professions are sword cultivation, alchemy, formation mastery, and talisman crafting. You may already know these in name, but each requires unique skills and dedication."
Liang Chen's interest piqued as he listened, eager to understand the wider world of cultivation beyond just martial strength. Yan Shu's voice took on a slightly softer tone as she explained each profession, and he could sense her reverence for the cultivation arts.
"Sword Cultivation is the foundation of the Divine Sword Sect," she said, her gaze flicking to the elegantly crafted swords displayed along the walls. "It is a path that combines physical prowess, precise Qi control, and unwavering intent. A sword cultivator learns to channel their energy into their weapon, making it an extension of their will. This is the path I have chosen, and it requires absolute focus and relentless discipline."
Liang Chen felt a sense of awe as she spoke of sword cultivation. It was clear that Yan Shu had an unmatched mastery of the sword, and he was eager to learn under her guidance.
"The Alchemy profession," she continued, "is equally esteemed. Alchemists focus on creating medicinal pills, elixirs, and potions that can aid cultivation, heal injuries, and protect against poison. Alchemy requires deep knowledge of spiritual herbs, as well as skill in manipulating heat and Qi. Only those with patience and precision excel in alchemy, for a single mistake can ruin an entire batch."
Liang Chen nodded, realizing the immense value of alchemy in the cultivation world. He imagined the advantages of possessing such skills, especially when life and death could be determined by the right potion or pill.
"Formation Masters are those who can control and manipulate spiritual energy to create formations," Yan Shu explained. "These formations serve various purposes—defense, offense, even illusion. Formation masters are known for their strategic minds and their ability to weave complex arrays, which can be as powerful as any weapon in the hands of an expert."
He could see the appeal in this path as well, envisioning the usefulness of formations in battles and everyday life, but he also sensed the complexity involved in understanding the patterns and energy flows that formations demanded.
"And finally, there are Talisman Drawers," Yan Shu continued. "A talisman drawer uses spiritual energy to inscribe symbols onto talismans, imbuing them with various powers. Talisman drawers are often sought after for their ability to create portable defenses or attacks. It is a skill that requires a steady hand and a focused mind, and the rarest talismans can turn the tide in even the most desperate situations."
Liang Chen felt a surge of excitement. Each profession was unique, and though he could feel himself drawn toward the path of the sword, the idea of learning even a bit about alchemy, formations, or talisman crafting intrigued him.
"While these are the most common paths," Yan Shu said, "there are rarer professions that you may come across. Ancient professions such as Beast Tamers, who control spiritual beasts, and Diviners, who can glimpse fragments of fate, are almost unheard of today. They are arts that require unique talents or rare inheritances, and few ever master them."
She paused, her gaze intense as she regarded him.
"As my disciple, your focus will be on sword cultivation," she declared. "It is not a profession you choose lightly, nor is it one that will forgive weakness. The sword requires clarity, an unbreakable will, and dedication. If you cannot give it these things, it will consume you."
He nodded, feeling the weight of her words. "I understand, Teacher Yan Shu. I am willing to give it my all."
A faint smile tugged at her lips. "Good. Then let us begin."
Yan Shu unsheathed her sword in a fluid motion, the blade glinting in the morning light. She held it with an effortless grace that spoke of countless years of practice.
"Sword cultivation is as much about inner focus as it is about physical technique," she said, pointing her sword toward him. "You will start with basic forms, learning how to move with the blade until it becomes an extension of yourself."
Liang Chen picked up the wooden training sword Yan Shu handed him, feeling its weight in his hand. It was heavier than he expected, but he steadied his grip, determined not to falter.
"Your first task is to match my movements," Yan Shu instructed, positioning herself in a low stance. "Observe my form and replicate it. Sword cultivation demands precision, so pay attention to every detail."
He watched closely as she moved, her motions fluid and precise. He did his best to mimic her, but each attempt felt clumsy in comparison. She adjusted his stance, correcting the angle of his sword and the placement of his feet with a gentle but firm touch.
"Relax your shoulders," she advised. "A tense body cannot flow with the blade."
Liang Chen took a deep breath, adjusting his posture as she instructed. He moved again, following her lead, and this time, his movements felt slightly smoother. The sword didn't feel like an awkward weight in his hand; it felt…right.
They continued practicing basic forms, Yan Shu guiding him patiently, her words filled with insight and encouragement. Despite the rigorous training, Liang Chen felt a growing sense of excitement, a connection with the sword that resonated within him.
Hours passed in silence as they repeated each form until his arms ached and his legs felt like lead. Finally, Yan Shu nodded, signaling him to stop.
"That will be enough for today," she said, sheathing her sword. "You are rough, but there is potential. With time, you will learn to wield the sword with purpose and intent."
Liang Chen bowed, grateful for her instruction. "Thank you, Teacher Yan Shu."
She studied him, her gaze softening slightly. "Tomorrow, we will begin to incorporate Qi into your sword movements. Mastering Qi flow through the blade will determine your progress as a sword cultivator. Rest tonight; you will need your strength."
As she turned to leave, Liang Chen felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and respect. Yan Shu wasn't merely teaching him techniques; she was imparting wisdom and discipline, a way of life bound to the sword.
"Well, aren't you off to a charming start," the Dream Reincarnation System chimed in his mind, its voice tinged with amusement. "Just remember, you're not here to impress her. You're here to learn. Though if impressing her comes naturally, I suppose that's just a bonus."
Liang Chen shook his head, feeling a smirk tug at his lips. "Don't worry. I'm here to become stronger."
"Glad to hear it," the system replied. "Because trust me, she'll make sure you are. And along the way, you might want to explore some of these other professions. A sword cultivator with a touch of alchemy or talisman crafting isn't so easily underestimated."
He made a mental note to ask Yan Shu about these other paths when the time was right. For now, he was content to focus on the sword, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
With Yan Shu as his guide, and the Dream Reincarnation System's voice in his mind, he felt an unwavering determination settle within him. He would become more than just a cultivator; he would become someone worthy of wielding the sword.
And so, with renewed purpose, Liang Chen prepared for the next stage of his training.