As the early morning sunlight filtered through the forest canopy, Ling Fei sat cross-legged before Shen Tao, eager yet composed. Shen Tao had promised to reveal the foundational knowledge of cultivation, and Ling Fei knew this was an opportunity to broaden his understanding of the world he was stepping into.
Shen Tao stood a short distance away, his hands clasped behind his back, exuding a calm yet commanding presence. "Ling Fei," he began, his voice steady, "You have shown your potential, I am now satisfied with your progress. So I will start explaining what cultivation truly means in this world."
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"Cultivation begins with Qi," Shen Tao said. "This energy permeates everything—the heavens, the earth, and even the blood of beasts. It is the essence of life and the driving force behind all cultivation. It is everything men desires, it is the most essential part of our lives and existence."
Ling Fei nodded, his gaze unwavering. "I've felt Qi during my training, but what exactly is it?"
Shen Tao gestured to the surrounding forest. "Qi is the natural energy of the world. It exists in harmony with the elements—fire, water, earth, wind—and with more abstract forces like yin and yang. Cultivators refine this Qi, drawing it into their dantian to strengthen their bodies, minds, and spirits. But remember, Qi is not infinite. Its flow must be balanced, or it can overwhelm and harm you."
Ling Fei absorbed the information, realizing how vital control and understanding were in cultivation.
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"Now, let me explain the progression of cultivation," Shen Tao continued, his tone becoming more formal. "The Pathways of Ascension are divided into realms, each marking a leap in power and understanding. Within each realm, there are stages—milestones that indicate a cultivator's progress."
He began to outline the realms:
Qi Condensation Realm: "This is where all cultivators start. You absorb and refine Qi, building a foundation in your dantian. It strengthens your body and allows you to store Qi. The stages range from the First to the Ninth Condensation, each requiring greater refinement."
Foundation Establishment Realm: "Once your dantian is stable, you begin to align your Qi with your chosen path. This is where you develop unique techniques and expand your Qi reserves. There are three stages: Early, Mid, and Late Foundation."
Core Formation Realm: "Here, your Qi condenses into a core, a crystallization of your efforts. This core represents a transition from mortal to extraordinary. The stages are False Core, True Core, and Golden Core."
Nascent Soul Realm: "A Nascent Soul is formed, a spiritual essence resembling a miniature version of yourself. This realm is about mastering advanced techniques and elemental affinities. The stages are Infant, Adolescent, and Mature Nascent Soul."
Ascension Realm: "This is the pinnacle of mortal cultivation. Here, you transcend mortal limitations, standing on the cusp of divinity. The stages are Initial, Grand, and True Ascension."
Shen Tao's voice grew quieter, almost reverent. "Beyond these realms lie the Immortal Realms. Only a handful in history have reached such heights."
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Shen Tao paused, letting Ling Fei absorb the weight of the information before continuing. "Cultivation is not a singular path. The Pathways of Ascension are divided into three primary paths, each reflecting a cultivator's nature and affinity."
"Heavenly Path. This path embodies purity, freedom, and enlightenment. Practitioners focus on harmony with natural laws, excelling in balance and defense. Techniques like the Heavenly Light Barrier and Calamity's Wrath are hallmarks of this path."
"Earthly Path. Vitality, resilience, and the physical world define this path. Practitioners enhance their bodies and manipulate their surroundings. Techniques such as Earthshaker Fist and Vital Bloom are typical."
"Beast Path. This path is primal and instinctual, drawing strength from beasts and their spirits. Practitioners fuse their souls with beast essences or transform into powerful hybrids. Techniques like Bloodclaw Strike and Primal Roar showcase its ferocity."
Ling Fei furrowed his brow. "Can someone follow more than one path?"
"Yes," Shen Tao replied, "but mastery requires focus. Specializing in one path can lead to unparalleled power, while balancing paths offers versatility. It depends on the cultivator's goals and nature."
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Shen Tao picked up a handful of soil, letting it fall through his fingers. "Qi, like nature, takes on attributes. These attributes align with elements or concepts, shaping a cultivator's techniques and abilities."
He listed the common attributes:
Fire: Destructive and intense, emphasizing explosive power.
Water: Adaptable and enduring, excelling in defense and healing.
Wind: Agile and swift, favoring speed and evasion.
Earth: Stable and strong, ideal for defense and overwhelming force.
"And then there are rarer attributes," Shen Tao added, his tone serious. "Yin and Yang represent duality and balance, while supreme attributes like Space, Time, and Fate are difficult to master but incredibly powerful."
Ling Fei's eyes gleamed with fascination. "Do we choose our attribute, or does it choose us?"
"It's a combination of both," Shen Tao said. "Your natural affinity plays a role, but with effort and understanding, you can attune yourself to new attributes."
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As Shen Tao finished, Ling Fei's mind buzzed with possibilities. The vastness of cultivation, the diversity of paths, and the potential for growth left him both awed and eager.
Shen Tao studied him for a moment, then spoke. "Remember, knowledge is only the beginning. The true test of a cultivator lies in their perseverance and adaptability. The road ahead will be long and arduous, but if you remain steadfast, the heavens themselves will bow before your strength."
Ling Fei rose to his feet, bowing deeply. "Thank you, Master Shen Tao. I will not squander this knowledge."
Ling Fei felt a renewed determination. His journey was just beginning, but with every lesson, every challenge, he edged closer to the path of greatness.