Hou Yu opened his eyes to the new world that stretched before him. The floating mountains, rivers of energy, and crystalline forests were breathtaking—but he felt their true significance only as he sensed the pulse of life flowing through everything. This universe was called Eclipse, a realm where the Dao—the fundamental force of existence—governed all.
It was here that he met Old Tang, a weathered cultivator whose presence exuded authority yet calm. His robes shimmered faintly, as though woven from the essence of the universe itself, and his eyes carried the weight of centuries.
"You have been brought here for a reason," Old Tang said, voice steady yet commanding. "To survive, to grow, and to return to your world stronger, you must first understand the Dao."
Hou Yu listened intently, eager to absorb every word.
Old Tang continued, "The Dao is the flow of all things. It is the force behind nature, the currents of life, the energy of the cosmos. To master it, you must first learn to feel it, then control it, and finally, let it strengthen your body and soul."
Hou Yu nodded. "But how do I start?"
Old Tang gestured toward the landscape. "Begin with nature. The winds, the rivers, the mountains, the lightning in the sky—they are all expressions of the Dao. Absorb their essence, let it flow through you, and your body will grow beyond its mortal limits."
Hou Yu closed his eyes, stretching his senses. He could feel energy radiating from the trees, the rivers, even the very air. It was overwhelming, yet exhilarating. He reached out with his mind, and slowly, the energy began to respond, bending toward his intent.
Old Tang watched him silently for hours. Then, he spoke again. "There are ten principal types of Dao in this universe, each governing a different aspect of existence. To master even one is to gain power beyond comprehension. These are:
1. Fire Dao – The essence of combustion, heat, and destruction.
2. Water Dao – The flow of rivers, oceans, and adaptability.
3. Earth Dao – The strength of mountains, stability, and endurance.
4. Wind Dao – The currents of air, speed, and freedom.
5. Lightning Dao – Raw energy, sudden force, and precision.
6. Light Dao – Illumination, perception, and clarity of mind.
7. Shadow Dao – Concealment, stealth, and manipulation of darkness.
8. Life Dao – Healing, growth, and the essence of vitality.
9. Death Dao – Decay, entropy, and control over the end of life.
10. Void Dao – The emptiness between worlds, space, and the manipulation of nothingness.
Hou Yu's eyes widened. "Ten types of Dao… all of this exists in Eclipse?"
Old Tang nodded. "Yes. And every cultivator in this universe chooses their path based on the Dao they can best harmonize with. But know this—mastery comes only with understanding, trial, and struggle. Strength without comprehension is fragile."
Hou Yu clenched his fists, feeling a fire ignite within. "Then teach me. Show me how to absorb the energy, how to grow strong, and how to use the Dao to its fullest."
Old Tang smiled faintly. "Very well. Today, you begin with the Earth Dao. It is the foundation—the Dao of strength, endurance, and resilience. Feel the mountains beneath your feet, the stones in your hand, the weight of the world itself, and let it flow into your body."
Hou Yu knelt, closing his eyes, and focused. Slowly, he felt the energy of the mountains around him flow into his muscles, bones, and blood. His body trembled under the raw influx of power, but he endured, letting it strengthen him. Every breath, every heartbeat, connected him more deeply to the universe of Eclipse.
"This is only the beginning," Old Tang said. "In time, you will touch all ten Dao. Only then can you hope to return to your world and confront the void creatures that destroyed your family. Knowledge is the key to power, Hou Yu. Never forget that."
Hou Yu opened his eyes, feeling a surge of energy coursing through him. This was the first true step toward mastery, and he vowed silently: he would learn, grow, and rise—no matter the cost.
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