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Chapter 5: Training

In a secluded corner of the Central Plains, hidden deep within towering mountains, Zhuge Minghui and his disciple, Tianfeng, settled down on this place to conduct an intense training regimen.

The air was crisp, the only sounds those of nature, creating an ideal environment for honing one's martial arts skills.

During the day before Zhao Tianfeng's training, Zhuge Minghui decided to demonstrate a practical application of his mastery over the Qi of Nothingness to Zhao Tianfeng alongside the intention to create a hut for him to rest.

They had found a clearing near a serene stream, the perfect spot for what Zhuge had in mind.

With a focused mind and a wave of his hand, Zhuge started to manipulate the Qi of Nothingness around them.

The air shimmered and coalesced, forming a transparent, ethereal aura around a nearby tree.

With a swift motion, Zhuge cut the tree at its base, the trunk floating gently towards them.

Tianfeng watched in awe as Zhuge repeated the process with several more trees, effortlessly cutting them down and bringing them to the clearing.

With the same ease, Zhuge manipulated the Qi of Nothingness to lift large stones from the ground, forming a foundation for the hut.

Unlike the usual light blue aura that surrounded the objects that are being levitated telekinetically with internal energy, it was a color that seemed to absorb all light, a deep shade of nothingness itself.

It was a unique phenomenon, one that set Zhuge Minghui apart from other practitioners of martial arts.

The hut took form in a matter of minutes, its sturdy walls and thatched roof standing as a testament to Zhuge's mastery over the Qi of Nothingness.

As Tianfeng stood there, amazed by the extraordinariness of his master, Zhuge turned to him with a smile.

There," Zhuge said, gesturing towards the hut. "A simple shelter for you to rest in during our training."

Tianfeng was deeply moved by his master's gesture. He bowed deeply, expressing his gratitude for Zhuge's teachings and kindness.

"It is my honor to be your disciple, Master," Tianfeng said, his voice filled with respect and admiration.

"But the way you built the hut was awesome, master! Can I learn this during our training?" Tianfeng was excited, with expectation written all over his face.

Zhuge shook his head, glanced at Tianfeng and looked back at the hut, "You brat, you shouldn't bite more than you can chew."

"You haven't even learned the basics, yet you want to learn telekinesis using qi already? Keep dreaming," Zhuge chuckled.

Zhuge carried on, "Besides, even if you become proficient with the basics, learning the type of qi I manifest doesn't seem to complement you."

Tianfeng's expression faltered, but he just nodded. He knows that his path is different from his master in some ways.

Zhuge saw his attitude and said gently. "The Dao of Nothingness is not something everyone can comprehend or handle. It's a path that demands complete detachment and an affinity with the void."

"Your spirit and will, Tianfeng, is not fit for such. The Dao of Nothingness would stifle your future performance and talent rather than enhance it."

After listening, Tianfeng perked up because he's interested in this "Dao" that his master is talking about which is different compared to the Dao that martial artists of this world interprets.

"Master, is the Dao you're referring to distinct from the Dao that the people in Jianghu speak of?" Tianfeng asked directly, evident from it is his curiosity.

"You're right. The Three Thousand Daos are what make up the entire omniverse, and cultivators are those who pursue the Great Dao."

"The concept of the 'Dao' is more than just a philosophical idea for cultivators; it's a guiding principle that shapes the very fabric of reality. The Dao represents the path to enlightenment, power, and immortality."

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"It's not just about understanding the world; it's about becoming one with it," Zhuge explained, his eyes reflecting a deep understanding of the vastness of cultivation.

Cultivators spend years, even lifetimes, seeking to comprehend the mysteries of the Dao. They meditate on its nature, study its principles, and strive to align themselves with its truths.

This journey is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and metaphysical one, as cultivators seek to transcend their mortal limitations and become beings of immense power and wisdom.

There are different aspects of the Dao that cultivators seek to understand.

The Personal Dao is unique to each cultivator, reflecting their individual beliefs, experiences, and aspirations. It's a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.

"Then there are the Supreme Daos, which are the ultimate truths of the universe. These are the foundational principles that govern all of existence, from the smallest atom to the largest stars.

"Mastery of the Supreme Daos grants cultivators unimaginable powers and abilities, allowing them to reshape the world around them and transcend the limits of mortality,"

Zhuge thought for a while, then continued, intending to feed Tianfeng's curiosity, "But mastering this type of Dao is relatively hard. It requires discipline, dedication, and sacrifice."

"These top-tier Daos are known for their quality and the difficulty when it comes to mastering them. However, if you succeed in comprehending and mastering a Supreme Dao, the power it bestows upon you is immeasurable."

Tianfeng listened intently, absorbing every word. "So, the Dao of Nothingness is one of the Supreme Daos?"

"Yes," Zhuge confirmed. "It's one of the most elusive and formidable paths. It requires a level of detachment and affinity with the void that very few possess. But, its power is unparalleled."

"Mastering the Dao of Nothingness gives you control over the void itself, allowing you to bend reality in ways others can only dream of. This is why it is both revered and feared among cultivators."

Tianfeng's eyes widened with awe and a hint of trepidation. "That sounds incredible... but also very daunting."

"It is," Zhuge agreed. "But remember, Tianfeng, the omniverse is filled with countless Daos. Each has its own unique path and power."

"While the Dao of Nothingness might not be for you, there are other Daos that could align perfectly with your nature."

"Finding your Dao is about discovering the path that resonates with your essence, the one that allows you to unlock your true potential."

Tianfeng turned to him and gratefully made a fist salute, his determination renewed. "Disciple understands. I will work hard to find my path, one that suits me and allows me to achieve greatness."

Zhuge nodded, quite pleased with his disciple's resolve. "Good. The journey of cultivation is long and arduous, but with the right path, you will reach heights you have never imagined."

"Now, let's continue with our training. You need to learn more and stand at the peak of Jianghu before you can barely even have your first step in cultivating the Dao."

After their long discussion, the two stood before the hut, a symbol of their bond as master and disciple.

For 6 days, the duo will immerse themselves in rigorous training.

Zhao Tianfeng pushed the boundaries of his physical and mental limits, while Zhuge Minghui decided to intensely cultivate a new power that can make handling things even more easier in the future.

---

Zhuge Minghui stood at the edge of a steep cliff, his eyes scanning the horizon. The sun's rays filtered through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

He turned to look at Tianfeng, who was already drenched in sweat, breathing heavily from the morning's exertions.

"Tianfeng," Zhuge began, his voice steady and calm, "today, we will focus on refining your internal energy. The strength of a martial artist lies not only in their physical abilities but in the mastery of their Qi."

Tianfeng nodded, determination etched on his face. "Yes, master, I will follow your orders and adhere myself completely to your guidance!" he said, saluting Zhuge respectfully.

He had come under Zhuge's tutelage for a while now, but he knew there was still so much to learn from him.

Just thinking about it made his heart palpitate, with the sense of exhilaration and ecstasy taking over him.

This is the guy who became similar a ghostly apparition!

He killed dozens of skilled bandits in mere seconds!

He made a wooden hut in a minute using only a mysterious type of qi!

Zhao Tianfeng had no doubt that no one could teach him better than his master.

No one was even close!

"Yeah, sure, whatever." Zhuge Minghui flicked his sleeves, making Tianfeng stand straight.

---

As the sun climbed higher, Zhuge demonstrated various forms and techniques, each movement precise and deliberate.

Tianfeng mirrored his master, striving to perfect his form.

They started with breathing exercises, the foundation of internal energy cultivation.

Zhuge guided Tianfeng through complex patterns of breathing, helping him to circulate his Qi more efficiently.

"Focus on your core, let the energy flow naturally," Zhuge instructed, his eyes sharp and observant. "Do not force it. Control comes from understanding and harmony with your own body."

--

When the afternoon heat became oppressive, Zhuge decided it was time for a different kind of training.

They moved to a shaded grove, where he set up a series of obstacles designed to enhance agility and reflexes.

Tianfeng leapt and dodged, his movements becoming increasingly fluid as he adapted to the challenges.

Zhuge watched with a critical eye, offering corrections to even the tiniest errors and giving encouragement every now and then.

---

By evening, Tianfeng was exhausted. He lay on the ground, his chest heaving, while Zhuge stood tall, unaffected by the day's exertions.

"You've done well today," Zhuge said, his tone unhurried. "Rest now. Your body needs time to recover and assimilate what you've learned."

As Zhuge said that, he suddenly disappeared from the spot where he's standing, as if he wasn't even there in the first place.

Tianfeng was not surprised, as his master displayed things not even in his wildest imagination is possible.

He closed his eyes for a short moment, feeling the cool earth beneath him.

After some time, he rose up and then headed to the hut to have a good rest.

---

As his disciple rested, Zhuge Minghui moved to a secluded spot, where he sat cross-legged and began to cultivate his essence of nothingness.

The air around him seemed to still, a faint aura emanating from his body.

He entered a deep meditative state, his mind becoming one with the void.

The essence of nothingness was a profound and enigmatic energy, requiring absolute concentration and a tranquil mind.

Zhuge's breathing slowed, his thoughts emptying until only silence remained.

---

Day two followed a similar pattern. Zhuge pushed Tianfeng further, introducing him to more advanced techniques and complex forms.

They practiced weapon skills, with Zhuge demonstrating how a halberd should be appropriately used and even showcase the fluidity of a halberd based on Tianfeng's style of fighting.

"Remember, a weapon is an extension of your body. It should move as naturally as your own hand," Zhuge advised, the halberd slicing through the air with pure destruction which causes the void to shake.

---

In the afternoon, they moved to a nearby waterfall. Zhuge instructed Tianfeng to practice his forms under the pounding water, a test of both strength and focus.

The force of the water was relentless, but Tianfeng persevered, each movement becoming more refined and powerful.

By evening, Tianfeng was once again at his limit.

He collapsed on the grass, his muscles aching, while Zhuge resumed his cultivation of the essence of nothingness, the aura around him growing more pronounced.

It was during this period of meditation that Zhuge began to perceive the intrinsic link between nothingness and space.

The realization struck him that the emptiness he cultivated was not merely an absence, but a potential for tearing and manipulating space.

This revelation marked the beginning of his journey into the Supreme Dao of Space.