> Cultivation realms are called "realms" because they represent different stages of cultivation that one can achieve. These realms are not physical places, but rather states of being that reflect one's level of cultivation. As a cultivator progresses through these realms, they gain access to more powerful abilities and stronger bodies.
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> Cultivation involves absorbing and refining aether (the overarching term for all types of magical energy), which can be found in the environment or within living beings. By refining aether, cultivators can improve their bodies and minds, increasing their strength and abilities. As they progress, they encounter bottlenecks that prevent them from advancing further, but with the right enlightenment or guidance, they can overcome these obstacles and reach new levels of power.
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> Breaking through realms and their stages requires intense focus, discipline, a deep understanding of the underlying principles of cultivation andarguably most importantly an understanding of one or more word laws. It is not an easy process, but for those who are able to achieve it, the rewards are immense. They gain access to powerful abilities, and become able to influence the world around them in profound ways.
~An excerpt from On Realms, Stages and Bottlenecks by Zhong Guanting
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World Location: A Mid-trunk Bough > Bashiri's Inner World
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NEW TECHNIQUE
1140 IF 3854:00 > 1140 IF 4148:00
Elyon sat alone on a small outcropping of the Tree of Creation, surrounded by the glowing stars of her own constellation. Her thoughts were a jumbled mess of worry and doubt, as she tried to prepare herself for the next stage of her cultivation journey. She knew that she was about to begin learning a new cultivation technique from Niloggver, her master. She had always been fascinated by his power and knowledge, but she also felt a heavy weight of responsibility on her shoulders. She was afraid that she would not live up to his expectations and disappoint him, despite her best efforts.
As she looked out at the sprawling expanse of the tree, she wondered if she was truly ready for the new challenges ahead. She knew that the technique Niloggver would teach her was not for the faint of heart, and that it would require a level of focus and discipline that she had never had to summon before. But she also knew that she couldn't let her fears hold her back. If she wanted to become a true master of cultivation, she would have to face her doubts head on, and push herself to the limit. With a deep breath, she steeled herself for the journey ahead, determined to prove herself worthy of Niloggver's teachings.
Meanwhile, Niloggver sat in his nest atop the world heart, the weight of his responsibility weighed heavily on his draconic shoulders. The world heart pulsed beneath him, a steady reminder of the enormity of the task he had undertaken. He knew the journey ahead of Elyon would be perilous, filled with unknown dangers and challenges that would test even the strongest. And yet, he couldn't help but feel a sense of doubt creeping into his mind.
Was he truly prepared for this? Did he have the knowledge, the strength, the experience necessary to guide Elyon through the trials ahead? These questions swirled around in his mind like a tumultuous storm, threatening to overwhelm him. But despite it all, he knew he had to put his fears aside and focus on the task at hand. For Elyon's sake, for the sake of their cultivation journey, he couldn't afford to let doubt cloud his mind.
After a time, they both made their way to where Elyon cultivated on the Tree of Creation, Elyon's heart was pounding with excitement and anticipation, the glowing stars of her constellation shining brighter with each step. The air was charged with energy, and she could feel the power of the universe pulsing through her veins. When they finally arrived at the flat part of the Tree, high up in the heavens, the shimmering stars seemed to dance around them in a celestial ballet.
As Niloggver stood before her, a sense of reverence and awe washed over Elyon. She couldn't help but be struck by the beauty of the scene. The way the stars reflected off of Niloggver's scales made it seem as if he were a part of the cosmos itself. It was as if he were a being of pure starlight, come to guide her through the mysteries of the universe. She knew that she was in the presence of greatness, and that this moment would be etched into her memory forever.
Elyon's constellation glowed brightly, casting an otherworldly light across the space around them. As Niloggver asked "Are you ready?" in a hushed voice.
Elyon took a deep breath and nodded, feeling a renewed sense of determination as she gazed up at the starry sky above them. "Yes," she replied, "I'm ready."
Niloggver smiled gently and began to explain the Mimameidr's Blessing technique. He described how she would merge once more with the Tree of Creation, channelling its power to create a special magical part of the tree, known as the Creation Branch. He explained how she would need to gather aether from around the world and concentrate it into the Tree of Creation, visualizing the Creation Branch growing from the tree and infusing her with its power. Over time, she would be able to access the branch's power even without merging with the tree.
As Niloggver finished explaining the Mimameidr's Blessing technique, he looked at Elyon with concern. He could sense her hesitation and uncertainty. "Don't worry," he reassured her, "I'm here to help you every step of the way."
Niloggver walked over to Elyon's cultivation formation and began to make adjustments. He added new symbols and patterns, aligning them to the stars and the Tree of Creation. As he worked, he explained the purpose of each adjustment, and how it would help Elyon's cultivation.
Niloggver's hands moved with a graceful fluidity as he made each adjustment, and his voice was soothing as he spoke. Elyon watched in amazement as the symbols and patterns began to glow with a soft, pulsating light, harmonizing with the energy of the Tree of Creation.
As he spoke, Niloggver's knowledge and understanding of cultivation shone through, and Elyon couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration and respect for her mentor. His words were like music to her ears, filling her with a newfound confidence and determination to succeed.
The entire scene was a beautiful display of the power of cultivation and the harmony of the universe.
Elyon watched in amazement as the formation transformed before her eyes. She could feel the power of the Tree of Creation flowing through it. "Thank you," she said, feeling grateful for Niloggver's help.
As Niloggver continued to work on the formation, he couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. He had spent countless hours studying and experimenting to create the perfect cultivation formation for Elyon, and now he was finally seeing the results of his hard work. He smiled as he watched the symbols and patterns come together, creating a masterpiece that would aid Elyon in her cultivation journey.
After a few minutes of this, Niloggver beckoned Elyon over with a crooked claw, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Come now, don't just stand there like a statue," he chuckled. "Why don't you lend me a hand?"
Elyon approached Niloggver, her eyes shining with curiosity and excitement. She felt honoured that Niloggver was willing to share his knowledge with her and include her in the process of adjusting her cultivation formation. She carefully examined the symbols and patterns, asking questions and sharing her own ideas.
Niloggver was pleased to see Elyon's enthusiasm and engagement. He had always believed that teaching was one of the most important duties of as her master, and he felt a sense of pride in passing on his knowledge to Elyon. He was impressed by her insights and suggestions, and he could feel his own understanding deepening as they worked together.
As they worked, the stars around them seemed to brighten, and the Tree of Creation hummed with a vibrant energy. It was a moment of profound connection and harmony, a moment that would stay with them both for the rest of their lives.
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Elyon, on the other hand, was in awe of Niloggver's expertise. She had always known he was a skilled cultivator, but seeing him in action was something else entirely. She watched as he worked with precision and care, his movements graceful and fluid. She couldn't help but feel lucky to have such a talented teacher.
As they worked together, the stars around them seemed to shine brighter, and the energy of the Tree of Creation grew more powerful. It was as if the universe itself was responding to their efforts, rewarding their hard work with its own energy and power.
Finally, after what felt like hours, Niloggver stepped back from the formation, a look of satisfaction on his face. "It's ready," he said, turning to Elyon. "Are you prepared to take the next step in your cultivation journey?"
Elyon nodded, as she sat down in the center of the formation a mixture of excitement and nervousness swirling within her. She took a deep breath, feeling the aether around her, and focused on the Tree of Creation.
The Tree seemed to hum with energy, resonating with her own cultivation formation. Elyon closed her eyes, feeling a sense of peace wash over her as she connected with the Tree. She could hear the whispers of its ancient knowledge and the gentle guidance of its spirit.
Slowly, Elyon began to draw the aether into her body, feeling it flow through her meridians and nourish her core. She followed the patterns that Niloggver had set out for her, letting the aether flow in and out of her with a steady rhythm. As she began to gather more aether and concentrate it into the tree, she felt a surge of power course through her body. She closed her eyes and visualized the Creation Branch growing from the tree, feeling the essence of time itself flowing through it.
As she progressed, the symbols on her cultivation formation began to glow with a bright, golden light, emanating a sense of power and strength. The stars around them seemed to brighten, almost as if they were responding to Elyon's cultivation.
Niloggver watched in amazement as Elyon's cultivation progressed, feeling a sense of pride and joy at her progress. He had always known she had great potential, but seeing it manifest before him was truly awe-inspiring.
The scenery around her transformed as well. The stars grew brighter, and she could see constellations she had never seen before. The leaves on the tree rustled in the wind, and she could hear whispers of ancient secrets.
Niloggver watched Elyon carefully, ready to step in if she needed help. As she continued to cultivate, he spoke words of encouragement. "You're doing great," he said. "Keep going."
For what seemed like hours, Elyon continued her cultivation, moving through each step with grace and ease. When she finally opened her eyes weeks later, they were shining with a bright light, reflecting the power of the Tree of Creation within her. She felt a deep sense of connection with the Tree of Creation and the universe around her. Niloggver smiled, feeling a little more confident.
Elyon couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment as she looked at the small stub of the Creation Branch. It was the culmination of months of hard work and dedication, and she had hoped that it would have grown more than it did. She traced the outline of the branch with her fingers, feeling the rough bark against her skin. As she looked at the small stub, she couldn't help but worry that Niloggver would be disappointed in her progress.
Taking a deep breath, Elyon turned to face Niloggver. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she waited for his reaction. She had worked tirelessly to impress him, and the last thing she wanted was to let him down.
As she turned her head to glance at him, she noticed that he was looking away, as if trying to hide something. She furrowed her brow in confusion and then spoke up, "Is everything alright, Niloggver?"
He turned his head back towards her, his expression shifting from surprise to one of genuine pride. "I am amazed, Elyon. You have done remarkably well in just one week of cultivating the Mimameidr's Blessing technique. Your power has grown significantly, and I can feel the connection you have made with the Tree of Creation strengthening."
Elyon felt her heart swell with pride and happiness at his words. She had been so worried about disappointing him, but it seemed like she had exceeded his expectations. She smiled brightly at him and said, "Thank you, Niloggver. Your guidance has been invaluable to me."
He smiled back at her and said, "It was my pleasure to help, Elyon. Now, let me adjust the cultivation formation around us so that it will better suit the Mimameidr's Blessing technique. This way, you will be able to cultivate more efficiently and continue to grow even stronger."
Niloggver got to work, moving the various formations and crystals around them, adjusting their positions until he was satisfied. As he did so, Elyon watched in fascination, noting the way the energy in the air seemed to shift and swirl around him.
After a few moments, Niloggver stepped back, his work complete. He nodded towards Elyon and said, "There, that should do it. You should be able to cultivate even more efficiently now. And remember, Elyon, the key to this technique is to concentrate your aether into the Tree of Creation and visualize the Creation Branch growing from it. Keep doing that, and you will continue to make progress."
Elyon nodded, feeling a renewed sense of determination. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and focused on the Tree of Creation once more. This time, however, she did so with a newfound sense of confidence, knowing that she had Niloggver's guidance and support to help her along the way.
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NEW LANDS
1193 IF 5841:00
As Elyon slowly opened her eyes from her meditative state, she was immediately struck by the beauty surrounding her. The stars sparkled like diamonds in the sky, casting a soft glow on everything below. The branches of the Tree of Creation stretched out endlessly in all directions, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze.
Exhausted from the rigorous routine of cultivation, Elyon made a decision to take a well-deserved break. Her body was sore and fatigued, and her mind was cluttered with thoughts of her progress. She needed a change of scenery, a moment of respite from the monotony of her daily routine. The answer was clear - she would venture forth to explore the Tree of Creation, despite knowing that the tree was in a way herself, she had never really explored it.
She sat up slowly, taking in her surroundings. The air was cool and refreshing, and the scent of the leaves and flowers around her filled her senses. She reached out a hand and plucked a small blossom from a nearby branch, marvelling at its delicate beauty.
The sound of a distant bird caught her attention, and she turned her head to see a small creature perched on a branch far far below her, its feathers ruffled in the breeze. She felt a sense of peace wash over her.
Elyon closed her eyes, taking a deep breath and letting the moment wash over her. She felt a connection to the Tree of Creation and its inhabitants, a sense of oneness that filled her with wonder and awe. The experience was almost overwhelming, and she knew that she would never forget it.
Slowly, she rose to her feet, feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. As she stretched her muscles, she took one last look at the world around her, committing every detail to memory. Then, with a smile on her face, she turned around and made a running jump off the tree, ready to explore the wonders of the Tree of Creation.
As Elyon explored the tree, she felt a deep sense of awe and wonder at the vastness and intricacy of its structure. The branches stretched out in all directions, like the arms of a great cosmic being, and each one was teeming with life and magic. The stars sparkled above her, like jewels set against an inky black canvas, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft rustle of leaves.
With each step she took, Elyon felt more and more invigorated. She wove magic into the tree, infusing it with her own power and bringing new life to the world around her. She created small groves of enchanted plants, each one more beautiful than the last, and she crafted intricate spells that made the very air shimmer and dance with light.
As she moved farther and farther out over the lands created by roots, she encountered all manner of strange and wondrous creatures, from tiny glowing insects to majestic, soaring birds giant with wings. Without saying a word Elyon seemed to speak to them all, learning their secrets and sharing her own magic with them. She felt like she was becoming a part of the tree, a living embodiment of its power and magic.
The more she explored her tree, the more she discovered its hidden secrets and untold wonders. She found entire ecosystems that she had never even known existed, teeming with life and magic. She saw creatures that she had never even heard of from Niloggver, and she watched in awe as they went about their daily lives, completely unaware of her presence.
And as she looked out over the vast expanse of the Tree of Creation, Elyon felt a renewed sense of purpose. She knew that she had a great destiny ahead of her, and that her magic was just beginning to bloom. With a smile on her face and a lightness in her step, she continued back to where she began, ready to embrace yet another few years of cultivation.
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NEW PROBLEMS
1512 IF 8172:00
Elyon had been working tirelessly on her cultivation for what felt like an eternity. She had poured all of her energy and focus into her work, driven by the burning desire to break through the third realm and enter the Aethysica Realm. And finally, after months of hard work, she had managed to create a magnificent Creation Branch, its leaves shimmering with the power of the magic she had infused it with.
Elyon was ecstatic. She could feel the power coursing through her veins, her body vibrating with the raw energy of her creation. She raised her arms to the sky, ready to take the final leap into the unknown, to ascend to the next level of power and make it a little closer to the power she saw in Niloggver.
But something went wrong. The moment Elyon attempted to break through the third realm, everything around her began to tremble and shake. The leaves of the Creation Branch started to withered and die, they thretend to fall to the ground in a lifeless heap. Elyon tried again and again, but each attempt was met with the same failure.
In despair, Elyon made her way to Niloggver's dwelling. Elyon was devastated. She had worked so hard, poured so much of herself into her cultivation, and now she felt like it was all for naught. She was greeted by the unfathomable dragon, who regarded her with a look of concern.