Two years had woven their subtle changes into the life of young Zhang Liwei. The boy, now seven, stood taller, his eyes reflecting a wisdom far beyond his years. The village had watched him grow, not just in stature, but in intellect and spirit.

His father, Zhang Jian, a man of few words but many acts of love, ventured often into the emerald embrace of the woods, returning with nature's bounty to barter with Uncle Zhou, the traveling trader, for knowledge held within worn spines.

Liu Mei, her heart woven into every stitch, spun tales of silk and thread, bartering them for worlds held within those pages.

Their unspoken love, a constant melody, fueled the flames of Liwei's curiosity, each sacrifice a whispered promise of endless possibilities.

His room was a testament to his voracious appetite for knowledge. Stacks of books lined the walls, ranging from treatises on agriculture to intricate scrolls about the art of smithing. However, among all these, two subjects captivated Zhang Liwei's heart like no other — commerce and trade, and the mystical world of cultivation.

Lost in his thoughts within the confines of his room, Zhang Liwei found himself reflecting inwardly. "These books on commerce and trade," he mused, his fingers tracing the spines of the texts, "they're more than just collections of words. They're windows into a world of endless possibilities."

He picked up a volume, flipping through its pages, his imagination transporting him far beyond the walls of his room. "I can see myself as a great trader, journeying across distant lands, exchanging goods from the farthest reaches of the earth."

Setting the book aside, his gaze drifted to another pile, this one filled with texts on the legends of cultivators. With a thoughtful expression, he whispered to himself, "And these tales of cultivators who command the forces of nature, who traverse the skies — they aren't mere fantasies. They're glimpses of a life extraordinary, a realm where the mundane does not bind one's existence."

In the quiet of his room, under the watchful eyes of his treasured books, Zhang Liwei's heart danced between the realms of commerce and mystical cultivation, each offering a path to a world much larger than the one he knew.

Zhang Jian and Liu Mei worked tirelessly, their hands and hearts dedicated to providing for their moon child. They understood, perhaps more than anyone, that their son was like a young dragon in a pond too small for his growing scales. The books and knowledge, while enriching, seemed to only highlight the limits of their small world.

On the morning of his seventh birthday, excitement fluttered in Zhang Liwei's heart. He had heard stories about Master Yan, the village elder with a mysterious past and knowledge of cultivation. It was said that on a child's seventh birthday, Master Yan would visit and test their affinity for the cultivation path using a mystical artifact. The possibility of being tested by Master Yan sent ripples of excitement through Zhang Liwei.

As he shared his eagerness with his sister, Zhang Ning, she looked at him with unwavering belief. "Brother, you are not ordinary. Cultivation? You were practically born for it!," she said with a smile that carried the innocence and certainty only a sibling could offer.

The sun journeyed across the sky, casting a golden hue over Green Willow Village, marking the beginning of a day that might just change the course of young Zhang Liwei's life forever.

The day progressed, carrying with it a blend of mundane village life and the palpable excitement within the Zhang household. As the afternoon sun began to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and gold, Master Yan arrived at their dwelling. His presence was like a gentle breeze, unassuming yet filled with an air of enigma.

Zhang Liwei watched with wide eyes as Master Yan stepped through the doorway. The elder's gaze held a warmth that belied his years of experience, and his smile was like the tranquil surface of a deep lake.

"Greetings, young Liwei. You've grown into such a bright and spirited boy," Master Yan said, his voice rich with a kindness that immediately put the family at ease.

He then produced from within the folds of his robe a mystical-looking bracelet. It was a simple, elegant piece, yet it shimmered with an ethereal light that seemed to dance with the colors of the setting sun. The bracelet was made of colorless beads, but among them were five that stood out, each a different hue representing the five elements: fire, water, metal, earth, and wood.

"These are the element stones," Master Yan explained, his fingers lightly caressing the beads. "Each contains a wisp of energy from its respective element. This bracelet has helped many discern their path in the world of cultivation."

The family gathered around as Master Yan handed the bracelet to Zhang Liwei. "Hold it in your hands, young one. Close your eyes, calm your mind, and feel if there's any connection," he instructed gently.

Bowing his head with utmost respect, Zhang Liwei responded, "As you command, Master Yan." He then raised his head, eyes gleaming with curiosity as he cradled the bracelet in his palms. The room fell into a hushed silence, the only sound being the soft rustling of leaves outside. For a moment, nothing happened, and then, almost imperceptibly at first, the bracelet began to glow. The beads lit up, faint yet discernible, with the dull yellow bead, symbolizing earth, pulsating thrice.

Master Yan observed intently, a flicker of something unreadable crossing his aged eyes. "This signifies an Earth Spiritual Root, a Human-grade one," he announced. "It's not the highest of roots, but in our world where few possess any spiritual roots at all, it's indeed a gift."

Silence hung heavy in the air, then Zhang Jian let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Human-grade?" he furrowed his brow, the term rolling off his tongue like an unfamiliar seed.

Liu Mei, her hand a comforting weight on Liwei's shoulder, looked at Master Yan with a mixture of gratitude and trepidation. "Not the highest, you say... but it's still a gift, isn't it? A chance for him to reach beyond, to..." her voice hitched, her eyes filled with a kaleidoscope of unspoken possibilities.

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Ning's eyes, like saucers caught in a sunbeam, darted between Liwei and Master Yan. "Shiny! What does it do, Master Yan? Can Liwei make fire in his hands now? Can we see?"

Master Yan, his gaze still holding the weight of untold stories, leaned forward. "Zhang Liwei, you possess a gift," he continued, his voice resonating with quiet power. "A gift that, if nurtured, can grow into a mighty tree from this humble seed."

He then addressed the family, "Today marks the beginning of a possible new journey for your son. One filled with potential, challenges, and the unknown."

The air in the room felt heavier, laden with the gravity of Master Yan's words and the realization that Zhang Liwei's life might never be the same again.

In the humble living room of the Zhang family, illuminated by the soft glow of the oil lamp, Master Yan sat across from Zhang Liwei and his family. The revelation of Zhang Liwei's Earth Spiritual Root had cast a spell of solemnity over the room. The air was thick with anticipation, curiosity, and a tinge of apprehension.

Master Yan, perceiving the family's blend of curiosity and apprehension, delved deeper into the intricacies of cultivation. "In the world of cultivators," he intoned, "spiritual roots are akin to the seeds of one's potential. They come in various grades, each with its distinct characteristics and pathways."

He methodically outlined the hierarchy of spiritual roots. "At the base, we have the Inferior Grade, often seen as a significant challenge in the cultivation path. Above it lies the Mortal Grade, which is somewhat common and requires greater effort for advancement. Next is the Human Grade, like Zhang Liwei's. It's a middling root, common among cultivators, offering a steady path without extreme weaknesses or strengths. These individuals exhibit moderate cultivation speeds and a decent affinity with elemental forces."

He then spoke of the higher echelons. "Beyond the Human Grade are the rarer Earth and Heavenly Grades. Earth-grade roots are less common and confer greater natural talent and affinity with the elemental forces. The Heavenly Grade, however, is the rarest and most potent, often associated with once-in-a-generation prodigies."

Master Yan paused, ensuring the family grasped the significance of each grade. "There are also special types of roots, like Mutated Spiritual Roots, which defy conventional categorization. Some legendary cultivators are even born with affinities to multiple elements."

His voice took on a somber note. "While the grade of one's spiritual root is a measure of innate talent, it's not the sole determinant of a cultivator's success. Many with Heavenly-grade talents face envy and hostility, and their journeys are fraught with danger. It's not uncommon for such prodigies to perish before their potential is fully realized."

Master Yan's expression softened as he imparted a final piece of wisdom. "The cultivation journey demands more than talent. It requires endurance, dedication, and resilience. History is filled with tales of those with lesser roots who, through sheer determination and grit, have risen to great heights. Zhang Liwei, your path, while balanced, holds the promise of greatness through perseverance and hard work."

Master Yan's eyes, reflecting years of wisdom, turned melancholic. "Since my return to Green Willow Village, I have tested many children. Yet, until today, none have shown the affinity for cultivation. Zhang Liwei, you are the first in many years, a rare bloom in this quiet village."

The room absorbed his words, the weight of this revelation settling on each member of the family. Master Yan continued, "The path of cultivation is not an easy one. It is fraught with tribulations, risks, and moments that will test one's very soul."

He paused, looking at Zhang Liwei with a gaze that seemed to see beyond the boy's youthful exterior. "But the life of a cultivator is not just about challenges. It is a journey of discovery, of reaching beyond the mortal limits, of touching the very essence of the universe."

Turning to Zhang Liwei's parents, Master Yan's tone softened. "I understand your concerns. The life of a cultivator can lead one far from home, into realms unknown. But to keep such a talent hidden, unexplored, would be a disservice to Zhang Liwei and the gift he has been given."

He then addressed Zhang Liwei directly. "If you choose this path, I can guide you through the initial stages. My own journey in cultivation was not without its limits, but I can lay the foundation for you to build upon."

Master Yan stood up, his figure casting a long shadow in the dimly lit room. "I will leave you to discuss this as a family. Remember, the path of cultivation is not a decision to be taken lightly. It is a commitment that will shape your destiny."

With those final words, Master Yan excused himself, leaving the Zhang family in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The room, once filled with the simple joys of village life, now echoed with the possibilities of a journey far beyond the borders of Green Willow Village.

The Zhang family sat together in their modest living room, the echoes of Master Yan's revelations still lingering in the air. The oil lamp flickered gently, casting a warm but flickering light over their faces, mirroring the turmoil of emotions within each of them.

Zhang Jian, Zhang Liwei's father, broke the silence, his voice calm yet heavy with the weight of a father's concern. "Liwei, you have been gifted a path that few in our village can even dream of. The heavens have bestowed upon you a destiny that is yours to shape. As much as I dread the thought of you venturing into the unknown, I believe in your strength and the purity of your heart."

He paused, his eyes gazing upon Zhang Liwei with a mixture of pride and worry. "Great men do indeed write their own destinies, and you, my son, have always been destined for greatness."

Liu Mei, Zhang Liwei's mother, clasped her hands tightly, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "My child, my heart fears for the dangers that lie on the path of cultivation. The life we have here is simple, yet it is filled with happiness and love. Can a journey towards the unknown replace the laughter shared at our table?"

Zhang Ning, Zhang Liwei's sister, sat close to her brother, her young face etched with a mixture of admiration and sadness. "But who'll tell me bedtime stories, Brother? And who'll chase away the lost souls at night if you're gone?"

In the midst of his family's love and concern, Zhang Liwei sat quietly, his young mind wrestling with the gravity of the decision before him. The allure of the cultivator's path called to him, a siren song promising adventure and discovery. Yet, the warmth of his family, the only world he had ever known, held him with equally strong ties.

After a long moment of contemplation, Zhang Liwei looked up, his eyes clear with a decision that seemed to age him beyond his seven years. "Father, Mother, Ning, I am torn between the safety of our home and the call of the path that lies before me. But deep within, my heart yearns to explore beyond the confines of Green Willow Village, to discover the mysteries of cultivation that have captivated my dreams."

His voice was steady, resolute. "I promise to train diligently under Master Yan and to only venture out when I am fully prepared. I will always hold our family in my heart, and no distance will ever diminish the love I carry for each of you."

The family listened, their hearts heavy with the realization that their little dragon was ready to spread his wings. With reluctant acceptance, they agreed to Zhang Liwei's decision, offering their support and blessings.

"No matter where your journey takes you, Liwei," Zhang Jian spoke, his gaze unwavering, "know that these walls always welcome you back. Whether weary from trial or triumphant in victory, this will always be your sanctuary."

As the family embraced, a mixture of tears and smiles, a new chapter in Zhang Liwei's life was set to begin. A journey of cultivation, of discovery, and of a young boy stepping into a world much larger than the one he had known, armed with the love and blessings of his family.