As Elder Ming's words settled into the air, Elara led Alex deeper into the heart of the Azure Plum Blossom Sect. The magnificent structure at the summit opened up to reveal a sprawling landscape with various pavilions, training grounds, and shacks nestled among the azure plum blossoms.
"Welcome to your new home, Alex," Elara said with a warm smile. "Before we delve into your training, there are some rules and aspects of our sect that you should be familiar with."
Elara led Alex to a serene area near a small pond surrounded by blooming plum blossoms. They sat on a stone bench, and Elara began to explain the rules, structure, and hierarchy of the Azure Plum Blossom Sect.
"First and foremost, within the sect, no killing is allowed unless both parties willingly agree to a duel of life and death," Elara emphasized. "We value harmony and unity, and conflicts should be resolved through mutual understanding rather than violence."
She continued, "As an outer disciple, you'll be responsible for various chores that contribute to the upkeep of the sect. This includes cleaning, herb gathering, and other tasks assigned by the elders. It's a way for everyone to contribute and maintain a sense of community."
"This way leads to the barracks," Elara said, pointing to a quiet path shaded by pine and plum blossom trees. The further they walked, the older and more worn the buildings became. Finally, they reached a lopsided wooden structure, its roof missing a few tiles and its steps creaking under their weight.
"Barrack thirty-two," Elara said flatly.
Alex blinked. "This looks like the place they send people when they don't want them to come back alive." Alex had watched his fair share of horror movies, and this cabin looked like it was pulled from one where a hockey player hunts down a bunch of campers.
Elara chuckled uneasily. "Yeah, well... most disciples avoid this one. Rumors say it stunts breakthroughs. Honestly, it's just been empty for years. But it's yours now, and since no one wants to live here, you get it all to yourself."
The inside was no better, with dusty floorboards, cobwebbed corners, a bed that creaked just by looking at it, and furniture that was losing a battle with time. Alex let out a long sigh.
"Well," he muttered to himself, while looking at some folded robes like what everyone was wearing and a small sack on the cot, "at least it's quiet."
Elara smiled sympathetically. "Make the best of it. Some say quiet is a blessing for cultivating."
"Others say this place is cursed," Alex added, grinning despite himself.
Elara smirked. "If anyone can turn that around, it's you. Rest up, your real training starts tomorrow."
As she departed, Alex immediately got to work on cleaning the place up. He opened all the windows and the front door to air out the cabin, then began to dust away cobwebs and sweep the dirt and dust out the front door.
After cleaning up, Alex looked around at all the furniture that was still broken but he wasn't a carpenter, so there wasn't much he could do. He then took a seat on the cot and opened one of the books Elara had given him: "Foundations of Qi: Understanding Circulation and Condensation." The first few pages explained the concept of dantian, meridians, and how the qi of heaven and earth could be drawn into the body and refined into power.
----------------
The next morning, Alex awoke to the soft golden hue of dawn filtering through the slats of the wooden walls. He lay there for a few moments, staring up at the ceiling, the events of the past day swirling in his mind.
'So, I did get whisked away to another world by some old pervert in a robe,' he thought, rubbing his face with both hands. It had all happened so fast: death, rebirth, and a sect initiation. Now, with a quiet morning and an empty room around him, it began to feel real.
He let out a breath, long and slow. 'No way to go back… not like there was much to return to.' His thoughts lingered on his old life, years of drifting apart from family, of isolation and routine. No friends, no real connections. It wasn't that he had nothing to miss... it was that nothing had ever asked him to stay.
With a light grunt, Alex sat up and stretched, his joints popping in protest. "Alright," he said aloud, shaking off the last remnants of sleep. "Time to stop sulking and start surviving."
He slipped into his robes, tightening the sash at his waist with more confidence than the day before. He tied his hair back as best as he could and gathered the books he'd been reading the night before.
Then, with a deep breath, he stepped outside into the cool morning air of the Azure Plum Blossom Sect, and as soon as he did, he was met by Elara already outside waiting for him.
Elara led Alex to the training grounds, where disciples of various levels practiced their cultivation techniques. Walking through the sect, Elara pointed to the library, a repository of ancient texts and cultivation manuals. "The library is a treasure trove of knowledge. As you advance in your cultivation, you'll gain access to more profound teachings. But remember, knowledge is earned through diligent practice and dedication."
They arrived at a small shop where disciples could exchange spirit stones for various resources.
"Spirit stones are the one form of currency within our sect. You'll receive an allowance to help with your cultivation needs. The shop offers resources based on your cultivation level, encouraging steady progress."
'Oh, is that what those crystals were? I thought there was something weird about them giving me a sack of crystals.' Alex thought to himself.
Elara saw Alex looking at his bag of spirit stones and explained that outer disciples get ten low-grade spirit crystals each month.
As Elara explained the sect's structure, Alex took in the vibrant atmosphere. Plum blossoms swayed in the breeze, and the distant hum of cultivation filled the air. The Azure Plum Blossom Sect felt like a world of its own, a place where the boundaries between the mystical and the tangible blurred.
"Elara," Alex began, his eyes reflecting curiosity, "you mentioned spirit stones as the sect's currency. What exactly are they, and how do they relate to cultivation?"
Elara smiled, appreciating Alex's inquisitive nature.
"Spirit stones are condensed forms of spiritual energy found in the natural world. They serve as a vital resource for cultivators. Through cultivation, we absorb and refine spiritual energy to enhance our strength. Spirit stones, in essence, are crystallized spiritual energy that can be used to accelerate and aid this process."
She continued, "In the sect, you'll receive a regular monthly allowance of spirit stones depending on your rank within the sect. These can be used to exchange for various resources like cultivation manuals, herbs, and even certain artifacts that can assist in your training."
As they strolled through the sect, Elara pointed to the training grounds in the distance, bustling with activity. "Cultivation is the practice of refining one's inner energy, aligning it with the natural forces of the world. Each cultivator follows a unique path, and the goal is to transcend the limitations of the physical body, unlocking extraordinary abilities."
"Here, you'll refine your skills and cultivate your inner energy. The Azure Plum Blossom Sect values not only strength but also balance and harmony in one's cultivation." Elara continued.
Alex absorbed the information, his mind weaving through the complexities of this new world. "And how do I start cultivating? What's the first step?"
Elara stopped near a tranquil pond, its surface reflecting the azure blossoms. "The first step is to understand the stages of cultivation. Let me explain the first four stages."
She gestured gracefully, painting an image of the stages in the air with mist. "The first stage is the Qi Condensation Realm. In this stage, cultivators focus on gathering and condensing spiritual energy, forming a foundation within their dantian, the energy center of the body. It's the beginning of the cultivation journey."
Elara's hands moved, outlining the second stage. "Next is the Foundation Establishment Realm. At this stage, cultivators refine and stabilize the foundation built in the Qi Condensation Realm. It's a crucial step where one establishes a solid base for further cultivation."
Her explanation flowed seamlessly into the third stage. "The Core Formation Realm comes next. Cultivators at this stage form a core within their dantian, a condensed mass of spiritual energy. This core serves as the catalyst for more profound transformations and abilities."
Elara's eyes sparkled as she reached the fourth stage. "The fourth stage is the Nascent Soul Realm. Here, cultivators transcend the physical form and give birth to a nascent soul. This ethereal existence allows for even greater connection with the spiritual realm and unleashes powerful techniques."
Elara erased the mirages she had painted and composed herself. "It is also important to know cultivators have different affinities for certain elements. Cultivators are often aligned with specific elements, such as fire, water, earth, or wind. This affinity influences the cultivation techniques and skills that suit you best."
She pointed to the pond, and a small globule of water rose from the pond and floated above it before falling to rejoin its source. "For example, someone with a water affinity might find resonance with techniques that involve manipulating water or ice. Once we determine your affinity, we can find techniques that work well with your element and tailor a cultivation plan that aligns with your strengths."
As Elara spoke, Alex found her insights grounding the theories he had studied the night before, finally turning abstract knowledge into something almost tangible, something he could now see and begin to grasp.
As they approached the library, a towering pagoda with several floors, a treasure trove of ancient texts and scrolls, Alex's eyes widened with anticipation. "Are there specific books or manuals I should start with? I want to understand more about cultivation and the different techniques. Oh, and here are the books I borrowed from you." Alex said as he pulled two books out from his robes.
Elara took the books back, surprised Alex finished studying them on his first night, and gestured to the entrance. "The library holds a vast collection of knowledge. For beginners, I recommend exploring the basics of cultivation and understanding the core principles. There are also introductory manuals for each affinity, offering insights into elemental cultivation. I do have to tell you that outer disciples can only access books and scrolls on the first two floors; the third floor functions as an outer disciple study area. You will find that each of the floors has its own sections, such as Cultivation and Battle Techniques on the second floor, with Pill Refining and formations on the first"
They entered the library, where shelves upon shelves housed the wisdom of generations. Elara guided Alex to a section dedicated to foundational cultivation texts. "Start with these," she suggested, handing him a few scrolls. "They cover the fundamentals, and as you progress, you can delve into more advanced teachings. They have material here that's a lot more in-depth than the one I gave you yesterday."
While flipping through the pages, Alex felt a quiet thrill building beneath the weight of everything he'd read. Cultivation wasn't just a goal, it was a road he'd only just set foot on. "Elara," he asked, "I studied the basics last night, but how can I tell if I'm actually making progress?"
Elara explained, "Cultivation progress is often measured in realms and stages. Each realm represents a significant leap in strength and understanding. As you cultivate, you'll experience breakthroughs, marked by an increase in inner energy, enhanced abilities, and a deeper connection with your affinity, body, and mind, along with feeling a deeper connection with the world around you."
She pointed to a section of the library that housed advanced cultivation manuals. "These texts detail the specific requirements and insights needed to break through each realm. It's a gradual process, and with dedication, you'll ascend to higher realms, unlocking new techniques and reaching new heights of power."
With a newfound understanding of the cultivation journey, Alex felt a mix of anticipation and determination. This library held the keys to his progress, and the shared knowledge of the sect would be his guide.
As they left the library, Elara led Alex to the sect's shop. "Here, you can use your spirit stones or contribution points you get from completing quests to acquire the resources you need. Remember, the sect provides an allowance, but additional spirit stones can be earned through contribution points, achievements, or trading with fellow disciples."
The shop displayed various items, from medicinal herbs to talismans and artifacts. "Depending on your cultivation level, you'll have access to different tiers of resources. It's a system designed to encourage steady progress and to reward effort."
As the day unfolded, Alex's immersion in the sect deepened. The shared shacks for outer disciples, the training grounds resonating with the hum of cultivation, and the interconnectedness of the sect members painted a picture of a vibrant community.
"Alex," Elara said, "tomorrow, you will have your formal assessment and the official start of your cultivation journey. For now, take this time to settle into your new life and get some rest. The journey of a thousand steps begins with the first, and you've taken that step today."
With a nod, Alex felt a surge of determination. The prospect of formal cultivation assessments intrigued him, but his thirst for knowledge urged him to take action. "Elara," he said, "I think I'll head to the library. I want to read more about different cultivation methods and prepare myself for tomorrow."
Elara smiled, understanding his eagerness. "That's a wise choice, Alex. The library holds a wealth of information. Familiarize yourself with the various cultivation techniques, and it will undoubtedly aid you in your journey."
As Elara bid him goodnight, Alex made his way to the library. The shelves beckoned him with the promise of ancient wisdom and the secrets of cultivation. The library, a sanctuary of knowledge, stood silent, awaiting the curious minds that sought enlightenment.
Entering the library, Alex felt a hush settle around him. The soft glow of ancient lanterns illuminated rows of scrolls and texts, each containing the accumulated wisdom of generations. He navigated the aisles, his fingertips grazing the textured spines of the books and scrolls.
Finding a secluded spot on the first floor, Alex opened the books Elara had recommended earlier. Alex kept reading through the various texts and hadn't noticed the gongs of a bell resounding throughout the lower levels of the library. The bells sound marking the library's closing echoed, and an elder disciple strolled by and gently tapped Alex on the shoulder. "Library closes to outer disciples at dusk. Come back tomorrow morning."
Alex blinked, momentarily pulled from the scroll he'd been poring over. "Ah, yes, sorry. I lost track of time."
He gathered the scrolls he had been reading, ready to put them back, when the elder disciple reminded him that he was allowed to borrow from the library but needed to return the items within a week. Alex tucked the books and scrolls under his arm and made his way to one of the nearby stone tables nestled in a quiet corner of the sect's inner gardens. The fading light of dusk lingered in the sky, but lanterns hung from curved poles cast a warm glow over the reading spaces.
Unwilling to stop, Alex spread the texts out across the table. His eyes flicked between diagrams of dantian flow, notes on meridian circulation, and the structured progression of the cultivation realms. The more he read, the deeper his curiosity became. Qi Condensation… Foundation Establishment… Core Formation… each realm felt like a step into legend, and yet it was all laid out plainly before him.
He read about the pathways qi followed through the body, the role of spiritual roots, and how inner discipline shaped external might. Despite the occasional breeze or buzzing insect, Alex remained focused.
Hours passed. Lantern light brightened. The sounds of the sect quieted until only the chirps of nocturnal insects and the rustle of nearby trees remained. Finally, sometime past midnight, his hand slumped beside the last scroll he'd unrolled. His head drooped onto a pile of open books, breath soft and steady, completely passed out beneath the soft glow of moonlight.
Morning light crept over the garden walls, casting golden rays across the now-scattered scrolls. A light tapping of footsteps approached.
"There you are," Elara said, spotting the collapsed figure with an exasperated but fond expression. "I should've known."
She walked up to the stone table and saw Alex fast asleep, face half-buried in a diagram explaining meridian compression. "You stayed up all night reading out here?" she muttered, brushing a leaf off his shoulder.
Alex stirred, blinked blearily, and slowly sat up. "Mmm… Elara? Is it morning already?"
Elara crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "The library kicks out outer disciples after dusk. I didn't expect you to turn the courtyard into your new reading nook."
Alex chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, I couldn't stop once I started. Guess I got carried away…"
"Well, after you said you would be going to the library yesterday, the look in your eyes told me you wouldn't be leaving anytime soon, so after I didn't see you at your residence, I came here to pick you up for breakfast." Alex's stomach started to grumble, thinking about breakfast and now trying to remember the last time he ate anything.
Elara giggled at the sounds of Alex's stomach causing him to blush in embarrassment. "Well let's hurry over to the dinning hall and get you something to eat. It's not good to train on an empty stomach after all." Alex nodded and they headed off to the dinning hall after he had retuned the books and scrolls he had finished.