Chapter Thirteen: The Beginning of Education
Ling Yu stood in the usual dark space, his body rigid and his mind burdened with an irrevocable decision. This time, he wasn't a reluctant guest, but a disciple standing before a mysterious teacher.
The woman smiled, a cold smile as if testing his sincerity:
"From this moment, I will begin your education. No blood ties, no spiritual restrictions… only a covenant between us. If you betray me or break your promise, you will destroy yourself with your own hands, for the power I grant you will not forgive you."
He bowed his head slightly and said in a firm voice:
"I will not betray my promise."
She nodded slowly, then raised her hand. A strange, translucent humanoid figure appeared before him, with intertwined, luminous lines flowing within it.
"Then let us begin with the simplest of realms, the first thing any cultivator encounters: the meridians."
She raised her finger and pointed to the luminous paths: "Don't underestimate its importance. Many cultivators think that the meridians are merely a preliminary stage before reaching the peaks. But the truth is… they are the foundation that determines your ultimate ceiling. If you distort these meridians at the beginning, even if you reach the Spirit Palace or the Peak of Foundation, your foundation will remain fragile."
Ling Yu listened intently, his eyes following the movements of her fingers as she explained:
"The meridians are divided into five sections:
The Common (Ordinary) Meridians: These are the foundation from which everyone begins. Nine major meridians run through the body, transporting spiritual energy like rivers. If they aren't clear and smooth, no advanced training will benefit you. Most cultivators remain trapped in this stage, thinking they've advanced while still remaining in the mud.
The Earth Meridians: Three additional meridians rooted in the body's connection to the earth. Opening them means your energy won't be easily affected by the environment or physical fatigue. Those who reach them are truly established in the world of cultivation.
The Heaven Meridians: Three more meridians, higher than the previous ones, connect the soul to the heavenly realm. They allow you to transcend human limitations and connect with higher energies. Those who truly open them are said to have taken their first steps into the world of the sages."
She suddenly fell silent, her smile disappearing, replaced by a stern look.
"Before I explain the last two sections… you must know something."
She leaned closer, so that he could feel the weight of her breathing penetrating his being:
"This world is just… If you want to reach the highest levels, you must face challenges… and perhaps even disasters. Strength is not given, but is won with your sweat, blood, and soul. The question now is…"
She stepped back slightly, her eyes flashing mysterious sparks:
"Shall I continue and reveal the entire path to you? Or are you satisfied with what I've told you so far?"
Ling Yu froze, his heart pounding, as if his entire life would be determined by his next answer.