The first full moon of the year graces the night sky, a sense of apprehension grips my heart. Tonight, my father and I are to meet with the grand elders of the Hao Ren family, a secretive trio known as "The Trinity Force." Their faces remain shrouded, a consequence of the scars left by the great war of Yong Ning that occurred two centuries ago. Their cultivation has reached the peak of the Golden Core realm, but they have chosen to focus on the development of their souls, forsaking further advancement of their physical bodies.
The Hao Ren family's grand elders follow a profound philosophy passed down through generations: "Soul makes the body and body makes the soul. To reach happiness in life, you must first acknowledge that you are miserable, such as a body without a nourished soul." Their wisdom and guidance shape the path of our family, steering us toward enlightenment and inner strength.
Patriarch Mun Hao Ren, also known as "Mun the Calamity," is the one who made the fateful decision to hide the grand elders' faces after the war ended. He is the only one who knows their true identities, and his strength is legendary throughout the Yong Ning region. As the oldest and most powerful cultivator in the area, he commands both respect and fear from the neighboring invading lands.
As the oldest and most powerful cultivator in the area, he commands both respect and fear from the neighboring invading lands [https://img.wattpad.com/3a16eec2dc5423862d6587594f109004084b9701/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f634733334875616e4846646f33673d3d2d313436323232383135322e313765326163383734626666666338313638343432393234313831352e706e67?s=fit&w=1280&h=1280]
Tonight's meeting is focused on my cultivation progress, particularly in the realm of lightning. The grand elders are concerned that I haven't shown any progress in the traditional paths of the sword and spear. Furthermore, my lightning cultivation has stagnated, and despite my unwavering dedication, I have been unable to achieve a breakthrough in my qi cultivation or uncover the hidden pages of the Divine Thunderstrike manual.
Over the past moths, I have dutifully reported my progress to the grand hall, updating them every few days. This meeting, however, seems different, and a heavy weight hangs in the air as we step into the dimly lit chamber where the grand elders await.
Whilst I walk beside my father, I can feel his silent support. Yet, I know that his own concern for my future and the family's legacy weighs heavily on him. The gravity of the situation settles upon my shoulders, and I try to steady my nerves, reminding myself to stay true to my path.
The grand elders sit on thrones that seem to blend with the shadows, their imposing presence almost otherworldly. Their low, resonant voices fill the chamber as they question my father about my progress. I observe them carefully, attempting to discern any clues or emotions behind their veiled faces.
The discussion takes a turn that sends a shiver down my spine. They speak of the possibility of my removal from the main branch of the family, and the abolishment of my lightning cultivation. My heart races, but I know that I must remain composed. This is not the time for weakness.
In the face of this potential adversity, I hold firm to my convictions. The path of lightning cultivation calls to me like a bolt of lightning illuminating the darkness. It is the essence of who I am, and I cannot forsake it.
As the grand elders await my father's response, I gather my courage and step forward. "Honorable grand elders," I begin, my voice steady despite the nerves that churn within me, "I understand your concerns, but I am committed to my chosen path. Lightning flows through my veins, and I cannot turn away from it. I will continue to strive for progress and unlock the power that lies within me."
The chamber falls silent as the grand elders contemplate my words. In that moment, I realize that this meeting is not just about my cultivation; it is a test of my resolve and determination.
When the Grand Elder of the East speaks, his words weigh heavily on my mind. "Xu," he says, his voice solemn, "perhaps it is not your resolve that is lacking, but your skill. It may be that you have yet to make a breakthrough towards the next level of bodily cultivation, which is hindering your progress in lightning cultivation."
Before I can respond, the Grand Elder of the West interjects, his tone thoughtful yet tinged with amusement. "Indeed," he says, "your soul seems unusually strong for someone your age. But at the same time, you are an unusually stubborn child. Perhaps it is that stubbornness that hinders you from embracing the necessary changes to progress."
The Grand Elder of the North joins the conversation, and I find myself drawn to his words. He points towards a massive black door, adorned with intricate golden engravings, located below where they are seated. "Xu," he says, his voice carrying a sense of gravity, "perhaps the time has come for you to meet the Patriarch directly."
My heart skips a beat at the mention of my grandfather, Patriarch Mun. His reputation as "Mun the Calamity" precedes him, and the thought of meeting him fills me with a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Huang, my father, looks shocked at the words of the elders, particularly those of the Grand Elder of the North. Concern etches his features as he turns to them and asks, "Is my son going to be expelled from the family?"
The Elder Hall falls silent, and for a few moments, it feels as if time has stood still. Then, all three of the elders speak at the same time, their voices resonating with a sense of authority, "That is up to the Patriarch to decide."
Huang sighs, his worry evident, but he nods in acceptance of their response. With a heavy heart, he looks at me and gestures towards the door. "Xu, go ahead," he says softly, "the Patriarch is waiting for you."
I rise from my seat and approach the foreboding door. The intricate golden engravings seem to shimmer in the dim light, and for a moment, I hesitate. But I know that this is a moment that will shape my future, and I cannot turn away.
Pushing the door open, I step inside the dark chamber beyond, the weight of the meeting with the grand elders still heavy on my shoulders. Grandfather Mun awaits me, his presence exuding power and wisdom, and as I stand before him, I feel a mixture of awe and reverence.
"Xu," he says, his voice carrying the weight of centuries, "you have chosen the path of lightning cultivation, a path rarely walked by humans. Tell me, child, why have you chosen this path, and what do you seek to achieve?"
His piercing gaze seems to see through to my very soul, and I gather my thoughts to respond with honesty and conviction. "Grandfather," I begin, my voice steady, "the lightning flows through my veins, and I cannot deny the calling within me. I seek to embrace the thunderous power and use it to protect our family and our home."
Seemingly satisfied with my answer, he nods slowly. "The path you walk is not an easy one," he says, "but I sense a fire within you, a determination that is rare to find. However, determination alone is not enough. To progress on this path, you must be willing to change, to let go of your stubbornness and embrace the wisdom of the ancient Daoists."
His words strike a chord within me, and I realize that the grand elders were right. My soul may be strong, but my unwillingness to adapt and change may be holding me back.
"I understand," I reply, my voice unwavering. "I am willing to learn. Please, guide me on the path that will unlock my true potential."
With his expression softening slightly, "Very well, Xu," he says gently, "I sense that there is much potential within you, but something is blocking your progress. Perhaps I should take you under my wing for a few days. Together, we can delve into the depths of your cultivation and see if I can help you figure out what's hindering your path."
The idea of being personally guided by grandfather Mun fills me with both excitement and nervousness. To receive guidance from someone as revered and powerful as him is an honor beyond measure.
"I am grateful for this opportunity, Patriarch," I say, bowing respectfully. "But may I ask for father to accompany us? His support and wisdom have been invaluable on my journey, and I believe he can also benefit from your guidance."
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Patriarch Mun smiles, seemingly pleased by my request. "Of course," he says, "Huang may join us. This journey will be enlightening for both of you."
With his permission granted, I feel a renewed sense of hope and determination. I know that this journey with Patriarch Mun will not be easy, but I am ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
As I exit the chamber, I find father waiting anxiously. His concern is evident in his eyes, and I reassure him with a smile. "Father, the Patriarch has agreed to guide us," I say, relaying the news. "We are to join him for a few days, and I believe it will be a great opportunity for both of us."
Huang's expression softens, and he places a hand on my shoulder. "I have always believed in you, Xu," he says, pride and love evident in his voice. "This journey with your grandfather will be a chance for you to grow even stronger, and I will be there to support you every step of the way."
As we make our way towards the balcony of grandfather's quarters, I can't help but feel a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The moon's soft glow illuminates the dark night, and the distant mountains stand as silent witnesses to our meeting.
However, before we can begin our discussion, Patriarch Mun surprises us both. He grabs me and father by the shoulders and, without any warning, jumps out of the balcony and towards the mountain behind the residence. The wind rushes past us, and I hold onto my father's arm tightly, feeling a rush of adrenaline.
"We shouldn't be disturbed here," Patriarch Mun says as we land gracefully on the mountain peak. His words carry a sense of authority, and I can't help but wonder what he has in mind.
"Now, Xu," he continues, turning to face me with a serious expression, "I want you to hit me."
Father and I exchange bewildered glances, unable to comprehend the Patriarch's request. "Hit you?" I echo, my voice tinged with uncertainty. "But, grandfather, you are far stronger than I am. I would never be able to—"
"Stop making excuses," He interrupts, his voice stern. "This is not about raw strength; it's about understanding the flow of power. Hit me with all the force you can muster, and don't hold back."
Taking a deep breath, I gather my courage and do as he says. With all the lightning energy within me, I channel the power into my fist and strike Patriarch Mun. To my surprise, he doesn't budge an inch; his stance remains firm and unyielding.
"You hold back," he says, a hint of disappointment in his voice. "Again."
I try again, pouring even more lightning energy into my strike, but still, Patriarch Mun stands strong. His teachings about the flow of power and the essence of lightning cultivation start to dawn on me. It's not just about raw strength, but about understanding the intricacies of energy and its interaction with the physical body.
"Once more!" he urges.
I gather my focus, channeling my lightning cultivation with newfound clarity, and strike once more. This time, I feel a slight give in his stance. A spark of excitement ignites within me, knowing that I am finally starting to grasp the essence of lightning cultivation.
"Good," He says, a small smile playing on his lips, "you are beginning to understand. Lightning is not just about power; it's about finesse and precision. You need to reach a state of harmony with yourself and the energy that flows within you before you can advance."
With those words of wisdom still resonating in my mind, grandfather surprises me once more. He turns to my father and with a firm tone, he says, "Don't hold your defense back, Huang. The child needs to understand his power before he can advance. There is no harmony without understanding."
Huang nods solemnly, understanding the Patriarch's intentions. He readies himself, taking a defensive stance, as I prepare to strike him, just as I did with grandfather.
I pour all my lightning energy into the strike, aiming for precision and control. As my fist connects with Huang's defense, I can feel the power coursing through me, but this time, I also feel a newfound sense of understanding. It's not just about overwhelming force; it's about reading the energy and finding the right moment to act.
To my surprise, father's defense gives way slightly, showing that I have made progress in my control and understanding of lightning. He smiles warmly, proud of my growth.
Patriarch Mun's teachings continue throughout the following days. He offers guidance and advice, helping me delve deeper into the essence of lightning cultivation. With each passing moment, I feel myself becoming more attuned to the subtle energies within me.
As I practice under the watchful eye of grandfather Mun and my father, I realize that this journey is not just about becoming stronger—it's about embracing my true self and finding harmony within. My lightning cultivation is not a force to be wielded recklessly; it is a reflection of who I am and a tool to protect those I hold dear.
"Before Xu's cultivation can advance, he needs to learn to control his lightning energy from within.", Patriarch Mun sees the potential in me but knows that I must face a crucial test to truly understand the power that resides within.
With a serious expression, Patriarch Mun turns to my father, Huang, and says, "To truly grasp the essence of lightning cultivation, Xu must learn control from experience. Attack him with all your might."
Father's hesitation is evident, but he understands the importance of this lesson. He looks at me with a mix of concern and determination. "Prepare yourself, Xu." he says softly, clenching his fists.
I ready myself for the challenge, knowing that this battle is not about defeating my father but about finding the balance between strength and control. As Huang charges in, his attacks are powerful and relentless. Despite his concern, he unleashes his full strength, and I find myself struggling to keep up with the intensity of the fight.
The battle is gruesome, and it becomes clear that I am no match for my father's experience and skill. In a swift and one-sided encounter, Huang's fists find their mark, and I am left unconscious on the ground, surrounded by a pool of blood.
After the battle, Huang kneels beside me, his eyes filled with tears and regret. "Is this the correct choice?" he asks Patriarch Mun, his voice shaking with emotion.
Patriarch Mun places a reassuring hand on Huang's shoulder. "It was necessary." he says firmly. "Xu's body is extremely fragile for someone at the peak of Qi Refinement. His lightning energy is powerful, but without a strong body to contain it, it would destroy him from within."
Huang's expression softens as he realizes the truth of his father's words. "Then what should we do?" he asks, his concern for me evident.
"We must strengthen his body," He replies. "Only then can he truly harness the power of lightning and reach his full potential. This will be a difficult and arduous process, but it is essential for Xu's growth."
With newfound determination, Huang nods, understanding the path that lies ahead.
I slowly regain consciousness, I find myself in my room, surrounded by the familiar warmth of home. My body aches, and my face is bandaged from the injuries sustained in the battle with my father. As I glance around, I notice my mother sleeping on a chair nearby, her presence a comforting reassurance.
As she stirs awake and her gaze falls upon me, her reaction can surely be heard from across the residence. Concern, relief, and a touch of worry fill her eyes as she rushes to my side. "Xu, my dear," she says, her voice trembling with a mixture of emotions. "you're awake!"
I manage a weak smile, feeling a rush of gratitude for my mother's presence. "Y- Yes, M- mother," I reply softly, my voice hoarse from the battle, "I- I'm awake...".
Her hand gently brushes against my bandaged face, and her eyes fill with tears. "You scared us," she admits, her voice resounding within the room. "But I'm so proud of you, Xu. You're strong, and you'll get through this."
With her support and encouragement, I feel a renewed sense of determination. I know that the path ahead is not an easy one, but with my family by my side, I am ready to face the challenges and continue my journey.
As the days pass, I focus on both refining my lightning cultivation and strengthening my body. Under the guidance of grandfather Mun, I embrace rigorous training and meditation. I learn to control the thunderous power within me, finding harmony between my lightning energy and physical form.
I can feel myself growing more attuned to the essence of the lightning within, until the final day of the year has come and the ring had a reaction to my cultivation and my newly strengthened body.
As the final day approaches, a sense of anticipation and excitement fills my heart. I have kept a secret from everyone—the "Ring of Thunder" that I discovered hidden deep in the mountains.
In the solitude of my chambers, I meditate, channeling the thunderous power within me. Unbeknownst to anyone, the ring reacts to my body and cultivation. Its ancient energies resonate with my newly strengthened form and lightning cultivation.
As I delve deeper into my practice, a profound change occurs. The Divine Thunderstrike manual, which I have studied diligently for so long, begins to reveal new words and insights. It is a moment of revelation and breakthrough, as I finally achieve a significant advancement—I have reached the next level, Qi Condensation.
A surge of excitement and accomplishment courses through me. The ring's hidden powers have somehow synchronized with my cultivation, granting me the knowledge and understanding to progress further on my lightning path.
The ring shines a light on the side that tempts my touch. As my hand approaches, a set of red flowers radiating a blood red aura appears. Reading through the newly appeared phrases, it seems to be related to the text from the cultivation manual.
"Drinking the juice of the Hundred Years Malorniya, in the presence of continuous lightning, helps stabilize the condensation of Qi and boost bodily functions. It must be used not long before breaking through to the Qi Condensation realm, so as not to waste it's Yin-Yang energies that strengthen the body."
I remain cautious and keep this newfound revelation to myself, aware that my journey has only just begun [https://img.wattpad.com/ae038bd633e333cf4608692669590b433ef8720d/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f7369756137454a65546e43704e673d3d2d313436323232383135322e313765326163396666656437306365623433343333373734303537352e706e67?s=fit&w=1280&h=1280]
I remain cautious and keep this newfound revelation to myself, aware that my journey has only just begun. There are still many mysteries to unravel, and I must continue to train diligently, seeking harmony between my body, soul, and the thunderous power that flows through me.
With this newfound discovery, my determination only intensifies. I am more resolute than ever to unlock the full potential of my lightning cultivation and the mysteries of the ring.
I urgently head towards my grandfather's quarters in the Elder Hall to notify him and the grand elders, of my advancement...