After months of intense training, Tian Ling decided it was time to focus on his own evolution. He headed to the Mystic Realm of Wood, where he would absorb the Qi of this vital element for his next breakthrough.

As he passed through the vortex leading to the Mystic Realm, Tian Ling immediately felt the change in the environment. Unlike the heat and intensity of the Mystic Realm of Fire, he now found himself in a vast, serene forest. Gigantic trees with thick trunks and green leaves stretched as far as his eyes could see. The air was humid, the scent of vegetation filled the atmosphere, and the vibrant energy of wood permeated the surroundings, while the soft rustling of the leaves in the wind created a tranquil melody.

"This place... feels alive. The wood is full of vitality," Tian Ling thought, feeling the cool breeze brush against his skin, as if nature itself was welcoming him. The Qi flowed naturally around him, enveloping him in a deep connection with the environment.

The system manifested in his mind.

— [Welcome to the Mystic Realm of Wood. The wood Qi here is abundant.]

Tian Ling found a peaceful clearing in the center of the forest, sat down in a lotus position, and began his cultivation. Closing his eyes, he started circulating his energy. The wood Qi, soft and constant, flowed towards his body, filling his meridians with a sense of growth and renewal. The vibration of the wood was slow but relentless, as if each cell in Tian Ling's body was being reinforced with patience and strength.

"The wood Qi is much slower and more patient than the fire Qi. It feels like I’m cultivating with nature itself," he reflected, adjusting his breathing technique to align with the rhythm of the environment around him. The sound of the swaying trees comforted him, reminding him that, just like the roots of trees, his progress needed to be deep and lasting.

Days passed with Tian Ling immersed in his cultivation. Without rushing, he absorbed the wood Qi, allowing it to naturally fill every part of his body. His patience was tested, but he understood that this energy required time to be fully mastered. Although focused on his progress, he couldn’t help but think about the battles happening beyond the borders of the Misty Cloud Sect.

"I’m on the right path, but is avoiding these battles the right thing to do? My Dao is cultivation, not war... But at the same time, the sect might need me," he thought, feeling a slight internal conflict. Though his goal was the Dao, the responsibility of protecting the sect weighed on his mind. Still, he decided to concentrate on his cultivation, hoping that his choices would lead him to true power.

While Tian Ling cultivated, on the other side of the realm, the disciples of the Misty Cloud Sect remained on high alert. At the sect’s borders, the presence of the Dark Sect grew stronger each day. Small skirmishes broke out along the defensive lines, with groups of dark cultivators testing the defenses of the Misty Cloud Sect.

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In one of the border zones, the sound of clashing swords echoed through the forest as two groups of disciples faced off. The Dark Sect cultivators were fast and lethal, using techniques that drained the life force of their enemies. However, the disciples of the Misty Cloud Sect were prepared. With the help of advanced defensive techniques and coordinated tactics, they repelled the attacks, though not without some casualties.

"They're getting bolder," commented one of the Misty Cloud Sect leaders, watching the Dark Sect’s retreat.

"They’re testing us. They want to wear us down before launching a larger attack," replied another disciple, wiping the sweat from his forehead. "We need to strengthen our defenses before it’s too late."

As these small skirmishes continued, the elders of the Misty Cloud Sect gathered to discuss their strategies. The situation was delicate. Although the attacks were not coordinated enough to cause significant damage, the increasing frequency worried the sect's leaders.

"We need to be ready for when they come in full force," one of the elders stated. "We can’t underestimate them. The Dark Sect has something bigger in mind, and we can’t be caught off guard."

The leaders of the Dark Sect, on the other hand, watched everything from afar. To them, these small attacks were mere distractions, meant to weaken the defenses of the Misty Cloud Sect as they prepared their true strike.

"They’re falling right into our trap," said the leader of the Dark Sect with a cold smile on his lips. "Let them continue. When the time is right, they won’t have time to react."

As the conflicts at the borders intensified, Tian Ling continued his cultivation in the Mystic Realm of Wood. Over the course of two years, he remained focused, patiently absorbing the wood Qi. The energy of this element, although slow, was deep and strengthening. He felt his spiritual roots growing, stabilizing his foundation in a firm and unshakeable way.

"Finally, the wood Qi is fully absorbed," he thought, feeling the energy flow harmoniously within him. He rose from the lotus position, feeling renewed and far more powerful than before. The system appeared once again.

— [Congratulations! The wood Qi has been successfully absorbed. Qi Level: 100%.]

Before leaving the Mystic Realm, Tian Ling took a deep breath and looked around one last time. The gigantic trees seemed to whisper to him, as if now recognizing him as part of the surrounding nature.

"The path of cultivation is long and lonely, but I am ready for whatever comes next," he thought, determined to continue his journey towards true invincibility.

As soon as he crossed the vortex that led him back to the Misty Cloud Sect, he decided to visit his master to show her his progress.

"Master, I have reached the fourth level of the Core Formation Realm. I’m progressing well," he said, bowing respectfully.

"Very good. We’ve been having frequent conflicts with the Dark Sect. Are you willing to participate in the battles at the border? You could earn merits and perhaps even the position of an elder," Mei Lianhua replied, while thinking, Has this boy already reached the fifth level of the Core Formation Realm? So much progress in such a short time… he truly is talented. She was surprised by Tian Ling's advancement.

"Master, this disciple seeks neither merit nor fame, only the Dao. I would prefer to remain within the sect and focus on improving my cultivation," Tian Ling nodded quickly, though deep down, he wondered if he was neglecting his responsibility to protect the sect.

"Ah, very well. If you have any questions about your cultivation, come to me."

"Thank you, Master."

As Tian Ling left the hall, Mei Lianhua thought, This boy has a very promising future… but isn’t he a bit too shy?