Chapter 24: Expedition into wilderness

With my newfound understanding of the fire concept, I was eager to experiment with creating runes imbued with its power. These temporary runes, in the battle would significantly expand my tactical options and boost my offensive capabilities.

Although they can’t compare to offensive techniques at the same level in terms of strength but they required less personal qi

because they harnessed the ambient qi from the environment just like the formations . This was particularly advantageous for me, given my somewhat limited qi reserves.

By incorporating the fire concept into my formations, I could also enhance their potency and lethality, tapping into the very essence of fire's destructive nature. This new skill set would be invaluable in combat situations, where adaptability and efficiency often made the difference between victory and defeat.

"Let's go," I said, signaling to the others that it was time to head to the main hall where Master Ning Jian was waiting for us.

As we walked, I couldn't help but notice the glances Ning Rong was receiving from both Li Liang and Lu Jing. It was starting to get out of hand.

These would-be protagonists were already vying for the attention of a jade beauty, despite being not even ten years old yet. Jade beauties truly were problematic, and Rong was especially dense to their advances.

When we arrived, Ning Jian welcomed us warmly. "Rong'er, you both arrived at just the right time. I was about to explain our upcoming training. Come, sit down," he said, pointing to his left.

We settled down, and Ning Jian began his briefing. "Alright, we will be entering one of the islands on the outer parts of the seven great islands. I will be teaching you and helping you gain experience in fighting monstrous beasts.

These beasts are not very rampant on these islands, but on the mainland, you can find them everywhere. So, you must learn how to deal with them. I will also help you master your new techniques by sharing my own insights. We will be leaving at dawn tomorrow, so pack your stuff and be ready."

"Master, what about Ning Feng? He hasn't reached the body tempering stage yet," Wang Mie asked thoughtfully, his concern evident.

Ning Jian sighed, looking slightly helpless. "Well, he can stay with me to watch and learn. The beasts on the island are mainly at the body tempering stage, with perhaps two or three at the qi manifestation stage. Nothing I can't handle," he said.

Though it was clear he had other concerns. He knew that if he refused to bring me along, Ning Rong would likely refuse to go as

well. She never went anywhere without me, and it seemed to irk him for some reason.

Despite his annoyance, Ning Jian knew the importance of this training. The outer islands were relatively safe compared to the mainland, and it was an ideal place for us to gain practical experience. "It's crucial that you all learn how to handle yourselves against these beasts. They will test your skills and force you to apply what you've learned in real combat situations," he continued.

Ning Rong, sitting beside me, nodded eagerly. She was always excited about new challenges and opportunities to improve. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and even the usually stoic Lu Jing seemed more animated than usual.

"Master, will we be focusing solely on combat, or will there be other aspects of training as well?" Lu Jing asked, his curiosity piqued.

"We will primarily focus on combat, but there will be lessons on survival skills, teamwork, and strategy. Understanding the environment and how to use it to your advantage is just as important as knowing how to fight," Ning Jian replied. "You'll also have the chance to practice your formations and techniques in real-world scenarios, which will be invaluable for your development."

As Ning Jian spoke, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. The prospect of facing monstrous beasts was daunting, but the opportunity to learn and grow was too good to pass up. Plus, I knew that with Ning Jian's guidance, we would be in capable hands.

After the briefing, we were dismissed to prepare for the journey. "Remember, we leave at dawn. Make sure you have everything you need," Ning Jian reminded us.

Many people from the continent also came to these islands to gain experience since they were relatively safe . I hope these wanna be protagonists wouldn't attract trouble.

……….

The next morning, as the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, we gathered at the entrance of the estate. Ning Jian was already there, waiting for us with a confident smile. "Are you all ready?" he asked, his eyes scanning over us.

We nodded in unison, all the kids had a look of excitement.

"Good. Let's move out," he said, leading the way.

As we embarked on our journey to the island, I felt a surge of anticipation. This expedition into the wilderness would be unlike anything I had experienced before, what's the point in being reborn in xianxia world if you don't get to fight monstrous beasts .

There were seven kids in this group us five and two other from our clan were also going to accompany us.

I was curious about how are we going to travel such a long distance just then I heard Ning Jian's voice.

"Everyone use your movement techniques to get to the port and Ning Feng you come with me" he ordered .

Suddenly I got lifted up and then all I could feel was air hitting my face and I couldn't open my open my eyes after 15- 20 min we both were at our destination.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

I feel like he did it deliberately , he could have put a qi barrier so that I won't be affected by the air . He had a grin on his face.

Should I punch him? I contemplated the consequences of doing such an action and it doesn't seem like a very good idea.

We waited for the others to arrive, meanwhile a ship came towards our position at the speed of a motor boat.

"Looks like our ride has also arrived and those kids will arrive soon as well." Ning jian said

Well considering his level he must have kept them in his sensing range using a sensory martial technique.

Once all of them arrived we all got on board. "You must accustom yourself to using movement techniques in all kinds of terrain.

It will not only make you more familiar with your techniques which can help you in battle and when you are trying to run away for your life but also increase your comprehension of that technique." He explained.

At least he have some good advice and this is where experience truly shines through I will remember the s pointer.

Comprehension of techniques also followed the same pattern as concepts namely-

initial , intermediate, advanced and consummate , these were mainly for technique one didn't create himself as when someone create a technique , it already consummate.

"While we are sailing , I will be giving you pointers on various techniques and we will also talk about Dao and how to gain comprehension of your current realm quickly

So gather up and be ready once we land we will be greeting some guests before we venture into the forest." He announced.

And so the session started , I have to say this guy made a great teacher and even I learned a lot, not everything can be learned from just books.

Practical experience is just as important, after the session ended everyone was meditating, trying to absorb all the knowledge .

As the time passed everyone started to open their eyes except Ning Rong who was still cultivating. The ship was not far from reaching it's destination.

We could see land already and sun has already started to climb rather high. At this moment she opened her eyes and a heavy qi pressure descended on all of us.

"Congratulations , my little Rong has broken through to mid level body tempering stage , this speed I have never seen it .

Even little Mei has only reached the limit of low level body tempering realm and I used to think she has the highest comprehension of anyone I have ever met ". Ning jian said happily.

Ning Rong seemed extremely happy and then looked towards me with a smug smile .

Damn it woman don't you forget who your teacher is.

Wait ,why is that Ning Jian giving me the stink eye . I didn't even do anything. It's not my fault you were missing for 8 years , you old bastard.

What is he a kid trying to seek attention. From the look she is giving me it's not just about cultivation realm increment .

She won't be this smug otherwise,

it probably has something to do with her lightning concept almost reaching initial stage or her soul concept reaching preliminary level.

I have been teaching her everything I know and discovered about soul in this world and given it's a world of cultivation my knowledge regarding soul from Hindu and Buddhist culture should be relevant somewhat .

Well at least she has enough brains to not scream it in my face in front of so many witnesses.

As the ship reached the island we all disembarked our ship. Just then another ship came into our sight coming from a different direction.

"Elder Ning , I heard you came back , how have you been? " an old geezer in yellow clothes asked.

"Elder Lin what a pleasant surprise , I was expecting you." Ning Jian said with formally. " It is only supposed to be an interaction between younger generation to develop better bond for the upcoming event so, why did you bring someone like him ?" Ning Jian pointed towards a kid 14 years old.

"Don't worry he isn't supposed to be a participant , he is here for some other reason." elder Lin replied.

"And what might that be ?" Ning asked .

"Nothing important, just some personal matter." Elder Lin replied vaguely unwilling to disclose any more details.

Ning Jian looked at the person with suspicion but let it go since he didn't even fear the elder lin let alone someone so much weaker.

"So everyone get ready seven people from both clans will participate in a friendly competition to collect the beast cores and there will be a prize for the winning team" Ning Jian explained

"Master will there be any individual awards" Li Liang asked. "Yes, there will be individual prizes, those of you in top three positions from both sides combined will receive them based on points earned from beast cores" Ning Jian nodded in agreement.

"Now , listen carefully I will explain all the rules . First , no one is allowed kill or severly harm a fellow human be it clansmen or otherwise .

Second , every beast is of a different level so, they will be assigned different points based on their strength :-

Body tempering :

Low level: 1 point

Mid level : 3 points

High level: 9 points

Peak level: 27 points

As for qi manifestation there will be none in the area event is being held so don't worry." Ning Jian patiently explained the rules .

"How are you so sure that there will be no beasts of the Qi Manifestation realm? And how are you going to stop us from breaking rules? How will you keep track of points gained by everyone, and what if someone wants to give up?" Ning Rong asked with a seriousness that belied her usual demeanor.

Ning Jian was momentarily taken aback by the barrage of questions, but he quickly regained his composure and smiled. "Good questions, Rong'er, and they can all be answered easily by this," he said, moving his hands in a fluid motion.

Suddenly, a vast area in front of us was covered by a beautiful dome of shimmering blue light. The dome extended high into the sky and far into the distance, encompassing a significant portion of the island. It was made up of intricate formations, with lines glowing in other hues faintly along its surface, creating a mesmerizing pattern that seemed to pulse with energy.

"This dome is a protective barrier created using advanced formations," Ning Jian explained. "It not only serves to keep any dangerous Qi Manifestation level beasts out but also helps us monitor everything that happens within its boundaries."

He then produced several jade tablets from his sleeve, each one gleaming with a soft light. "These jade tablets are the key to our training exercise," he said, handing one to each of us. The tablets were smooth and cool to the touch, inscribed with complex runes that hummed with latent power.

"These tablets will keep track of the points you earn by defeating beasts and completing various tasks. The points will be updated in real-time, so you can always check your progress. If you want to give up at any point, simply break the tablet. It will send a signal to me, and I will come to escort you out."

Ning Jian continued, "The tablets are also designed to enforce the rules of our training. If anyone attempts to break the rules, the tablet will immediately notify me, and the person will be disqualified. This way, we ensure a fair and disciplined training environment."

"As for the beasts, we have thoroughly scoured the entire area to ensure there are no creatures at the Qi Manifestation level. The beasts you'll encounter are at the body tempering stage, which is suitable for your current level of training." Ning Jian reassured.

I was a little taken aback this is a permanent peak grade 2 formation , it must have sucked away a mountain of Grade 2 resources to build something like this .

Also it's the first time I am seeing at least some level of co dependence of runes and formations to achieve a goal, something I have been experimenting with for the last two years or so. They are being used together.

Ning Jian then clapped his hands together, drawing our attention. "Now that you understand the rules and the tools you'll be using, it's time to get started. Remember, this training is not just about physical strength but also about strategy, teamwork, and perseverance. Use your knowledge, your skills, and your wits to overcome the challenges ahead."