"I finally sensed the blood."
Ye Chen's excitement was palpable. After years of relentless practice, he had finally reached the critical stage of the Skin Resurfacing Realm, the foundation for becoming a true Martial Artist. Sensing the energy of qi and blood marked the pivotal moment in this journey. With this breakthrough, achieving the Stone Skin Realm was no longer a distant dream but merely a matter of time and dedication.
For most, sensing qi and blood was an insurmountable hurdle, a barrier that separated true martial artists from those doomed to mediocrity. Many with poor talent would struggle for a lifetime without ever crossing this threshold.
At this moment, Ye Chen could feel a faint surge of energy coursing through his hands. Though it was just a trace, it was enough to begin tempering the skin. Each session would strengthen his hands, gradually transforming them into the durable, stone-like texture characteristic of the Stone Skin Realm.
Unlike the rudimentary iron-sand grinding he had practiced before, this new method was many times more efficient. The previous exercises now seemed like mere preparation. As Ye Chen carefully channeled his qi and blood, a sharp pain and itchiness spread across his hands—a sign that his skin was absorbing the energy and beginning to transform.
However, this method was not without its cost. The rapid consumption of qi and blood left Ye Chen fatigued. Recognizing the need to replenish his energy, he quickly ate a hearty meal, allowing his blood and stamina to recover.
To expedite the process, Ye Chen purchased Qingyuan Secret Medicine from the Qinggang Martial Arts School. This rare concoction was designed to amplify the effects of qi and blood during the tempering process. Applying it to his hands, he resumed practicing Qinggang Hand, a specialized skin-grinding martial art. The improvement was immediate; the secret medicine enhanced his qi and blood absorption, accelerating the transformation of his skin.
But the Qingyuan Secret Medicine was costly, and Ye Chen's relentless practice consumed a significant amount. For a month and a half, he adhered to an intense regimen, depleting his resources but steadily progressing. Finally, the day arrived when he felt his hands nearing completion of their transformation.
---
That afternoon, Ye Chen focused all his energy on his hands. The qi and blood surged violently, saturating his skin with power. As his hands devoured the energy, the hunger in his body became unbearable. Thankfully, Ye Chen had prepared for this moment, stockpiling a feast of meat pies. Devouring them, he replenished his body's reserves.
Hours later, his transformation was complete. His hands had achieved the toughness and resilience of stone. He clenched his fists, marveling at the newfound strength. Picking up a large stone, he crushed it effortlessly in his right hand. Then, testing his defense, he struck his left hand with a blade. The weapon left only a faint white mark, unable to penetrate his hardened skin.
"This is the strength of a Stone Skin Martial Artist!" Ye Chen exclaimed, exhilarated by his achievement.
However, he knew this was only the beginning. Only his hands had reached the Stone Skin level. The rest of his body was still far from this state. Still, he had crossed a significant threshold and was now qualified to join the Qinggang Martial Arts School as an official disciple.
Without delay, Ye Chen sought out his instructor, Du Hai, to share the news.
---
"Du Jiaoxi, I've broken through to the Stone Skin Realm!" Ye Chen declared, his voice filled with pride.
Du Hai examined him closely. "Mobilize your qi and blood and focus it on your hands," he instructed.
Ye Chen obeyed, channeling his energy to his hands. A faint white glow emanated from his skin, proof of his advancement.
"Excellent," Du Hai said, nodding with approval. "You've officially stepped into the Stone Skin Realm. I'll take you to meet the master of the Qinggang Martial Arts School."
Under Du Hai's guidance, Ye Chen was introduced to Xu He, the owner of the Qinggang Martial Arts School. A man in his fifties, Xu He exuded authority and strength, his every movement radiating the power of a seasoned martial artist.
"Ye Chen," Xu He said, his deep voice resonating in the hall. "You've achieved the Stone Skin Realm within a year. Are you willing to become my disciple?"
Without hesitation, Ye Chen knelt and said respectfully, "Disciple Ye Chen greets Master!"
Xu He nodded, handing him a secret manual. "This is the advanced version of the Qinggang Hand martial art. The version you've practiced thus far is merely an introductory technique. With this manual, you'll unlock its true potential."
"Thank you, Master!" Ye Chen said, bowing deeply.
Xu He's gaze was indifferent. "Your progress is commendable, but it's clear you relied heavily on Qingyuan Secret Medicine. Without significant talent, your journey will be arduous. Prove yourself worthy of greater attention."
Though Xu He's words were blunt, Ye Chen remained undeterred. He understood that his current achievements were only the first step in a much longer path.
---
After Xu He departed, Ye Chen turned to Du Hai for guidance. "Senior Brother Du, now that I've entered the Stone Skin Realm, how should I continue my cultivation?"
Du Hai smiled warmly. "The Stone Skin Realm has multiple stages: Initial Formation, Basic Accomplishment, Great Accomplishment, and Perfection. Once you reach Perfection, you can either advance to the Bone Refining Realm or further temper your skin into Iron Skin.
"Advancing from Stone Skin to Bone Refining has a 100% success rate. However, refining your skin to the Iron, Copper, or Silver levels drastically reduces the chances of breaking through. It's a high-risk, high-reward strategy."
Ye Chen listened intently, absorbing every word. "Senior Brother, is it possible to temper the entire body's skin, rather than focusing on specific areas?"
Du Hai laughed. "It's possible in theory, but incredibly impractical. Transforming your entire body to Stone Skin would take decades. By the time you're done, others will have surpassed you, reaching realms far beyond."
He paused, then added, "Besides, gathering the necessary martial arts for full-body transformation is nearly impossible. Advanced techniques are jealously guarded, and anything you find on the black market is likely flawed."
Ye Chen nodded thoughtfully, realizing the complexities of his path.
---
With newfound determination, Ye Chen resolved to master the advanced Qinggang Hand martial art and continue climbing the martial arts hierarchy.