Senior Brothers’ Lectures

The next morning, Chen An’nian carried two buckets of water and returned to the mountaintop, where the master and three senior brothers were already waiting.

“In the future, you have to arrive even earlier. How can we keep the master waiting?” Xia Longque said.

“Understood, Third Senior Brother,” Chen An’nian replied with a smile as he poured the water into the water tank.

Xu Shouqiao patted Chen An’nian’s shoulder.

“Don’t listen to him. You did very well today.”

After fetching the water, the five of them stood in a row, washing their faces and rinsing their mouths...

Xu Shouqiao carried a basin of clean water to cook the breakfast.

As Chen An’nian looked at the few grains of rice in his bowl, he couldn’t help but twitch his lips.

Sighing, Xia Longque said, “Alas, even four people can’t eat their fill, and now we have to divide it further. It’s unbearable.”

“Eat quickly, and after that, we’ll start our morning class,” the master said with an air of authority.

Xia Longque fell silent because drinking porridge still required a few sips of time.

Yes, just a few sips.

Not even ten breaths passed.

Before Chen An’nian could even lift his bowl, the master and three senior brothers had already finished the porridge in their bowls.

After the other three left, Xu Shouqiao brought out a plate of scallion tofu from the kitchen and patted Chen An’nian’s shoulder.

“I’ll be waiting for you at the stone cliff on the back mountain.”

Chen An’nian quickly swept the tofu into his mouth, then finished his porridge before cleaning the plate and bowls.

Arriving at the stone cliff, the eldest senior brother was already waiting there.

“Come, show me the fist technique you’ve been practicing,” he said.

Following his words, Chen An’nian demonstrated the complete fist technique from the fragment of the Golden Book.

Xu Shouqiao was greatly surprised.

“So, you already have a solid foundation in fist technique. That’s truly impressive!”

“Eldest Senior Brother, thank you,” Chen An’nian replied modestly.

Without the fragment of the Golden Book, he would still be a nobody.

“Regarding cultivation, I know you have many questions. But let me ask you first: what kind of warriors do you think are worthy of stepping into the path of martial arts?” Xu Shouqiao asked.

Chen An’nian hesitated for a moment, not daring to be certain.

“To face ten thousand enemies alone? To take the head of a general amidst a sea of enemies?”

Xu Shouqiao smiled. “You’re partly right, but also not entirely.”

“Martial arts encompass everything, but there is a fundamental principle: the pursuit of the limits of the human body.”

“How great are these limits? No one can say for sure. Some people may reach their limits facing ten enemies, while others can navigate through ten thousand. There are even those who can move mountains and rivers with a single punch.”

“And the cultivation of martial arts is the pursuit of transforming limited power into limitless power.”

"Fighting and killing are not the entirety of martial arts.”

Chen An’nian vaguely understood.

“Does Eldest Senior Brother mean that martial art is, in fact, a process of seeking the truth?”

Xu Shouqiao’s eyes lit up.

“Correct, the pursuit of truth, the pursuit of limits that may never be reached. That is the martial arts!”

“Little Junior Brother, you are very insightful.”

“While cultivating the martial art is an endless journey, it also has different realms.”

Xu Shouqiao raised a finger. “The first major realm is called the Three Qi and Blood Realm!”

“The Three Qi and Blood Realm are divided into three stages, as the name suggests. The first stage is Thousand Forces, the second stage is Power Transformation, and the third stage is Gang Power.”

Chen An’nian quickly asked, “Eldest Senior Brother, what are the differences between these three realms? Why aren’t they individually categorized, but instead grouped under the Three Qi and Blood Realm?”

Xu Shouqiao was highly satisfied with Chen An’nian’s question.

Many people only accept things unconditionally during their cultivation and never engage in their own thinking.

But this junior disciple of his had a sharp mind.

He smiled as he explained, “These three realms are actually three different stages that manifest during the cultivation of Qi and Blood.”

“Because the differences are quite distinct, but all still fall under the cultivation of Qi and Blood, they are collectively referred to as the Three Qi and Blood Realm.”

“However, you can simply refer to them as the minor realms. Consolidating them together makes it easier for us to find the path of cultivation.”

"Focusing only on the small details won’t allow us to see the bigger picture. Only by understanding the overall framework and then delving into each step can we walk a long and steady path.”

Chen An’nian suddenly realized that he hadn’t expected there to be so much depth in just distinguishing the realms.

Xu Shouqiao laughed.

“In the Three Qi and Blood Realm, when you reach the Gang Power Realm, your internal energy can be released externally. With a single punch, even an ordinary steel plate would be pierced.”

“In the Three Opening Apertures, you open the acupoints within your body, transforming internal energy into primordial energy. By combining the connections between acupoints, you can unleash the force of hundreds of thousands of kilograms.”

“The final stage of the Three Forging Bones is called the Golden Body Realm. At this level, every bone in your body becomes as tough as refined steel, and even splitting mountains and breaking rivers becomes effortless.”

“And beyond that, there are the Tao Palace and Symbol Sea realms, possessing unimaginable power for ordinary people.”

“And the Three Golden Elixir...”

As Xu Shouqiao spoke, a trace of longing appeared on his face.

“This realm is said to be the pinnacle of human power, capable of soaring through the sky, overturning rivers and seas. None of these descriptions can fully capture its immense strength.”

Listening to this, Chen An’nian had only one thought in his mind.

Isn’t this basically a humanoid nuclear bomb?

No, it’s even more powerful than a humanoid nuclear bomb!

However, can this truly be achieved by humans through cultivation?

Unbelievable!

Xu Shouqiao chuckled and said, “The path of martial arts is vast and boundless. The Golden Elixir Realm is known as the limit of human power. But beyond it, there is said to be another vast realm, a name even I am unaware of.”

“If you have the opportunity in the future, Little Junior Brother, you must become a presence beyond the Golden Elixir Realm and astonish me.”

“Today, we will mainly discuss the Three Qi and Blood Realm.”

With that, Xu Shouqiao shook his left arm, and Chen An’nian heard the sound of crackling beans.

“The most remarkable characteristic of Thousand Forces Realm is the harmonious resonance of tendons and bones. When cultivated to this level, one’s strength can reach a thousand kilograms, signifying the thorough cultivation of Qi and Blood.”

Xu Shouqiao struck a nearby stone with his fist, and Chen An’nian clearly saw a fist imprint left on the stone.

“A strength of a thousand kilograms is already impressive for ordinary people, but it is still not enough.”

“Therefore, there is a second realm called Power Transformation.”

Xu Shouqiao demonstrated a simple punching motion.

Immediately, Chen An’nian felt the temperature around him rising.

Xu Shouqiao seemed to have transformed into a furnace, blazing with intense heat.

“This is Power Transformation, the transformation of Qi and Blood into internal energy. Do you know how to transform qi and blood into internal energy?”

Xu Shouqiao suddenly asked.

Caught off guard, Chen An’nian found himself in a knowledge blind spot and could only shake his head helplessly.

“Why do you think my body temperature is so high? It has even affected the surrounding temperature. An ordinary person would have long been burned into an imbecile.”

Xu Shouqiao reminded him.

Without resentment, without hesitation.

When imparting cultivation methods, one cannot be forced to gain everything from others, as it would yield no results.

One must think for themselves, exhaust all possibilities, and then seek guidance to truly learn something.

“High temperature, Power Transformation...”

A sudden flash of insight crossed Chen An’nian’s mind, but he couldn’t find a way to articulate it.

“Does high-temperature lead to Power Transformation?”

“It seems you have some ideas,” Xu Shouqiao chuckled.

“High temperature is indeed the means to achieve Power Transformation.”

“Strong qi and blood lead to strong strength. So, if we continue to refine our qi and blood, our strength will naturally become stronger.”

“Hence, the ancients devised a method. They treated qi and blood as fermenting wine, using high temperature to boil it. The higher the temperature and the longer the time, the thicker the wine becomes.”

“And Power Transformation is the product of boiling and thickening qi and blood with one’s body temperature.”

As Xu Shouqiao vividly explained, Chen An’nian suddenly had a moment of enlightenment.

What kind of “genius” thinking is this?

Is this really a cultivation method devised by humans?

Aren’t they afraid of dying from practicing it?

Seemingly aware of Chen An’nian’s thoughts, Xu Shouqiao said, “Therefore, this stage becomes a threshold. Many people blindly practice, only to end up with their minds burned, becoming imbeciles.”

“So, we shouldn’t practice diligently?”

Chen An’nian’s heart skipped a beat.

“Martial art is not the path of a brute,” Xu Shouqiao chuckled.

“The greatest enemy of a martial artist is, in fact, oneself.”

“More precisely, it is injuries.”

“Practicing martial art involves training in punches or other external techniques, which can easily lead to soreness in the muscles and skin. Excessive and blind training can even damage tendons and bones, resulting in fractures or internal bleeding.”

“You see, if you reach such a state, wouldn’t you be useless?” Xu Shouqiao asked.

“What should we do then?” Chen An’nian was puzzled.

Isn’t martial art about being diligent?

Why is being diligent considered wrong?

“So, for martial artists, both the cultivation method and medicinal pills are important.”

“The cultivation method determines the direction, while medicinal pills determine how far you can go.”

“Using medicinal pills to repair various hidden injuries in the body allows you to progress continuously.”

“Some people say that practicing martial arts means constantly smashing stones or hitting walls with your head, but that is misleading.”

“Blindly practicing like a brute will only hasten your demise.”

As Xu Shouqiao reached this point, he couldn’t help but feel deeply moved.

Chen An’nian couldn’t help but feel that something was amiss.

Why does the martial art seem so health-oriented?

But it’s alright.

Even though the style seems off, I have divine power, so repairing hidden injuries is not a problem. I can just go all out.

Compared to others, I actually have an advantage.

Continuing, Xu Shouqiao said, “The third realm is called Gang Power, where internal energy can separate from the body.”

As Xu Shouqiao spoke, he threw a punch, and the stone in front of Chen An’nian instantly shattered into several pieces.

This startled Chen An’nian.

Hidden weapon!

“This realm is actually about controlling the pores, allowing inner energy to shoot out from them, thus forming qi.”

“As for how to control the pores, have you ever seen a cat’s fur standing on end? Or when you suddenly switch from taking a hot shower to cold water? There are also...”

Suddenly, Xu Shouqiao flicked his finger, and Chen An’nian instantly felt a chill at the back of his head, followed by goosebumps running down his spine.

“Do you feel it? That’s your natural reaction, but we need to turn this natural reaction into something controllable.”

Chen An’nian felt his worldview being refreshed.

Previously, he never paid much attention to these things, not realizing they held so many secrets to cultivation.

Without someone guiding him, who could achieve such progress?

Although Xu Shouqiao dressed like a farmer, his teachings on cultivation were surprisingly excellent.

From the macro to the micro, from the shallow to the profound, combined with inspiration and experiential learning.

This is what a true master looks like!

Chen An’nian felt a sudden clarity before his eyes.

Though the Humble Peak seemed dilapidated, it contained all the essence within.

“Now you can continue practicing your fist technique, which is suitable for your current stage of cultivation. I will write down the breathing technique for you later,” Xu Shouqiao patted Chen An’nian’s shoulder.

“Next, go to the Overlook Pavilion. Your second senior brother is waiting for you there.”

Chen An’nian quickly bowed, “Thank you, Eldest Senior Brother.”

“Go,” Xu Shouqiao chuckled.

Arriving at the Overlook Pavilion, Shen Chunqiu was already sitting there, fanning himself.

“Second Senior Brother,” Chen An’nian bowed.

“Have a seat,” Shen Chunqiu gestured for Chen An’nian to relax.

“How is your training with Eldest Senior Brother?”

“I have gained a lot,” Chen An’nian truthfully replied.

Shen Chunqiu smiled and shook his head.

“I always said that Eldest Senior Brother is more suited to be a teacher than me. But he insists on being a farmer, saying he doesn’t want to go hungry in the future.”

“I won’t teach you specific cultivation methods here. Let’s just consider it a casual conversation.”

“Today, let’s talk about... this world!”

“This world?” Chen An’nian pondered.

Shen Chunqiu dipped his finger in water and drew a picture on the table.

“This is Green Mountain Sect, surrounded by three cities. These three cities, along with seven others, form the Ding'an Prefecture.”

“Beside Ding’an Prefecture is Ding’an Mountain, facing Tianmen Prefecture across the mountains. These two prefectures, along with eight others, collectively form the Baiyang Mansion.”

Chen An’nian couldn’t help but swallow nervously.

“Such a vast territory... and this country has so many people. It must be powerful, right?”

“Powerful?” Shen Chunqiu sneered.

“Among the ten countries in Cang Area, the Dai State is the weakest, constantly facing the danger of being annexed.”

“Both the Tiansheng Sect in the west and the Yun State in the south have their eyes on the Dai State.”

Chen An’nian felt his worldview shattering.

A country with such vast land and a large population was actually a small country constantly on the verge of being swallowed up.

The concept of a small country seemed too broad.

If it were on Earth, wouldn’t they all be considered small countries?

No, some might not even be considered prefectures.

Chen An’nian noticed a blind spot.

“Second Senior Brother, why is the West called a sect instead of a country? Tiansheng Sect, I mean.”

“Because the Tiansheng Sect controls a country and finds managing a whole country troublesome, they simply abolished the country’s name and incorporated the entire nation into their sect’s sphere of influence.”

“Ruling the region in the form of a sect.”

Shen Chunqiu answered.

Chen An’nian didn’t know what language to use to describe it any more.

He had thought that Green Mountain Sect was already quite large.

After all, Factotum Peak alone had more than a dozen mountain peaks, and the Outer Sect had seventy-two mountain peaks.

But then there was the Tiansheng Sect, directly ruling over billions of people.

It was simply astonishing.

Lost in extreme shock, Chen An’nian failed to notice the disdain on Shen Chunqiu’s face when mentioning the Tiansheng Sect.

...

After having his worldview refreshed by Shen Chunqiu, Chen An’nian returned to the mountaintop, where Xia Longque, was waiting with a displeased expression.

“Here, these are for you.”

Xia Longque carefully took out two porcelain bottles from his pocket.

“This is the Qi and Blood Pill, specifically for replenishing qi and blood. There are ten pills inside. Eldest Senior Brother should have told you that during the Power Transformation Realm, the consumption of qi and blood is severe. If you’re not careful, you may suffer from anemia or even burst into a bloody mess.”

“The other one is the Body Protection Pill, which can treat hidden muscle injuries. As for injuries to the bones, it’s better than nothing, but it’s barely enough for the Three Qi and Blood Realm. There are also ten pills inside.”

Xia Longque then took out another porcelain bottle from his sleeve, his face pained.

“This is the Ice Refinement Pill. It prevents the body from overheating during the Power Transformation Realm and getting burned.”

“You should use them sparingly. When practicing, try to immerse yourself in the deep pool at the foot of the mountain. Only when you can’t bear the heat anymore should you use the Ice Refinement Pill. There are only three pills inside.”

Saying that Xia Longque quickly stuffed the three bottles into Chen An’nian’s arms and walked away.

“We won’t fight today. I’m not in the mood.”

Holding the three bottles of pills, Chen An’nian felt warm inside, despite Xia Longque’s impatience and terrible attitude.

Unlike Lu Zhongmu, who tried every means to kill him, these pills were prepared by his senior brother to help him in his cultivation.

Looking at the poor conditions of the Humble Peak, he knew what it meant for them to buy these pills.

“Thank you, Third Senior Brother!”

Chen An’nian shouted loudly towards Xia Longque.

"Thanks for what? I'll beat you to a pulp tomorrow!" Xia Longque didn't even turn his head, grumbling and cursing under his breath.