Clenching his fists, Ares felt determination surge through him. "Whatever challenges lie ahead, I won't back down. I'll prove myself worthy of my destiny."
The ancestor continued, observing Ares's attentive gaze. "Now that you understand the structure of the universe, it is time to tell you about the cultivation realms. Every individual, to grow in strength and deepen their understanding of existence, must pass through a series of realms. These realms represent the stages of spiritual, physical, and mental growth, and each step forward brings you closer to mastering the cosmic laws. Furthermore, each advancement in the realms extends your lifespan. The higher your level, the longer you can live."
Ares tilted his head slightly, his eyes focused and his breathing steady, as though he didn't want to miss a single word. Within him, a mix of excitement and fear grew. Every sentence from the ancestor's mouth felt like a door opening to infinite possibilities, but also to a future full of challenges.
"In the world of cultivation," the ancestor continued, "there are nine mortal realms that every cultivator must pass through. Each realm requires not just strength, but also determination, wisdom, and perseverance. Listen carefully, Ares, for understanding these realms is essential for your journey."
The ancestor began listing them:
1. Foundation Realm
"The first step on a cultivator's journey. Here, you build the foundation of your power, strengthening your body and developing the ability to sense and control spiritual energy. Success or failure in this realm determines your future path. Lifespan does not increase in this realm and remains limited to about 70-100 years."
Ares felt a shiver run through him. He was aware that his journey had just begun, and the road ahead would be long and difficult.
2. Essence Condensation Realm
"In this realm, the cultivator purifies spiritual energy, making it denser and more stable. It is here that the first connections with the vital essence of the universe are formed. Lifespan can extend up to 150 years, as the body becomes more resistant to illness and aging."
3. Spiritual Awakening Realm
"In this realm, your soul awakens, and you begin to understand your true nature. Your senses sharpen, and your inner energy harmonizes with the world around you. Lifespan increases to 200 years, and the signs of aging slow significantly."
4. Golden Core Realm
"Spiritual energy condenses into a stable, radiant core, the source of your power. This core is the key to overcoming greater challenges and unlocking advanced techniques. Lifespan can reach 300 years, and the body approaches a state of perfect efficiency."
Each word from the ancestor carried the weight of the responsibility Ares would have to bear. He clenched his fists, his heart boiling with impatience and determination.
5. Spiritual Body Realm
"In this realm, the cultivator strengthens their body, making it a perfect vessel for spiritual energy. Only those who surpass this realm can push their physical limits beyond the human boundary. Lifespan increases to 500 years, and the cultivator can maintain a youthful appearance for centuries."
6. Spiritual Soul Realm
"Here, you learn to project your soul, extending your awareness and control over the external world. It is a dangerous realm, as the connection between soul and body becomes fragile. However, mastering it allows a lifespan of up to 700 years, along with a deeper connection to the natural laws."
Ares felt a tinge of fear. The ancestor's descriptions made it clear: the path of cultivation was not for the faint-hearted.
7. Mortal King Realm
"In this realm, the cultivator achieves full control over their body and energy. You become a king among mortals, a figure both respected and feared. Lifespan exceeds 1,000 years, and your body reaches a near-immortal state within the mortal world."
8. Mortal Sovereign Realm
"A realm rarely attained. Here, the cultivator begins to understand the laws of the world and apply them to their power. You become a sovereign who can bend the world to your will. Lifespan can extend to 2,000 years, making you a legendary and revered figure."
9. Immortal Ascension Realm
"The pinnacle of the mortal realms. In this realm, the cultivator approaches the boundary of mortality. Though not yet divine, you gain a profound understanding of the cosmic laws. Lifespan can exceed 5,000 years."
Ares was fascinated by the complexity of these realms, but he couldn't stop himself from asking, "And after? What comes beyond these realms?"
The ancestor's expression grew serious. "The divine realms are something best left unspoken, at least for now. Understanding them prematurely could affect you negatively, planting a dangerous and insatiable desire. For now, focus on the mortal realms. They are more than enough for your current journey."
Ares nodded slowly, feeling the weight of his ancestor's words. The sense of responsibility pressed down on him, yet it also ignited a flame within.
The young man clenched his fists, looking up at the sky above him. I won't let the ancestor's expectations down, he thought, his eyes filled with determination.
The ancestor smiled, a mix of approval and anticipation in his expression. "Then prepare yourself, Ares. The path of cultivation is long, and your journey has only just begun."