Chapter 26

After releasing the system and seeing Jasper kill the Tiger, the Ancient Cultivator inside of Jasper entered a sort of secluded meditation. Upon Jasper entering the first stage of the Qi Refinement Realm, the sudden influx of Spirit Qi that Jasper had absorbed stimulated the dormant consciousness of the ancient cultivator residing in Jasper's soul. After a long being in dormant meditation for the past month, the ancient cultivator stirred, the rich and abundant Spirit Qi acting like a beckoning call.

Opening his spiritual eyes, the ancient cultivator observed the world from within Jasper. He could see the swirls of Spirit Qi that were continuously being absorbed and refined. It was a fascinating sight, one that brought a sense of nostalgia. This process of cultivation was, after all, the same method he had followed thousands of years ago when he was just starting on his path of cultivation. All the cultivation method and other knowledge in the system was actually all derived from the Cultivators own knowledge.

Feeling the robust and vigorous Spirit Qi around him, the ancient cultivator could not help but let out a sigh of relief. He could tell that Jasper had been diligently cultivating, making significant progress in such a short time. The purity and quantity of the Spirit Qi were both impressive, indicating that Jasper was already on the right path.

As he observed more closely, the ancient cultivator could also sense that Jasper's cultivation base was still somewhat unstable. This was common for new cultivators who had just entered a new realm. However, this was also the best time for guidance, to help Jasper consolidate his cultivation and avoid any potential pitfalls. Scratching his invisible beard the Ancient Cultivator decided to give Jasper a little assistance.

***

Upon hearing the sudden sound of the system's alert, Jasper was pulled out from his meditative state. For a moment, he was stunned. This was the first time a system mission had been triggered outside of his previous schedule. However, after reading the mission details, a glimmer of understanding flashed in his eyes.

[Ding. Ding. Mission Triggered:

Mission Name: Consolidating Power

Task: Practice 100 rounds of sword technique while circulating your Spirit Qi

Reward: Upgrade in a minor cultivation realm]

Upon hearing the sudden sound of the system's alert, Jasper was pulled out from his meditative state. For a moment, he was stunned. This was the first time a system mission had been triggered outside of his previous schedule. However, after reading the mission details, a glimmer of understanding flashed in his eyes.

"Consolidating power," Jasper muttered under his breath. He understood the importance of this mission. Not only was it related to his recent breakthrough into the Qi Refinement Realm, but it also focused on integrating his martial techniques with his newfound Spirit Qi.

He did not hesitate. Rising from his meditative position, Jasper stood straight, his gaze determined. His sword was already lying at his side, shining brightly under the sun. As he held his sword firmly, he felt a connection. The sword, as cold and lifeless as it was, seemed to vibrate with the same rhythm as his own heartbeat. It was an eerie feeling, but not an unwelcome one.

Then, with the utmost concentration, Jasper began his sword practice. He moved slowly at first, ensuring that each of his movements was in sync with his Spirit Qi circulation. Every swing, every step, every breath was in perfect harmony with his Spirit Qi.

As he continued to practice, he could feel his Spirit Qi gradually becoming more stable, and his control over it was growing stronger. The system's mission, as challenging as it was, was proving to be a beneficial training for him.

After what felt like an eternity, Jasper finally completed his 100th round of sword practice. He was exhausted, but there was a satisfied smile on his face. He could feel that his cultivation had solidified, and his control over his Spirit Qi had improved tremendously.

Indeed, as Jasper rested, a realization struck him. His last round of sword practice, in harmony with his Spirit Qi, had lasted a full two days. He was astounded. He knew the cultivation of Spirit Qi could enhance his physical and mental capabilities, but he had not expected it to have such a profound effect on his endurance.

Looking up at the clear sky, Jasper marveled at the effects of Spirit Qi. Just a month ago, he would've been out of breath after a single day of intense training. Now, he had managed to push his body and mind to continue practicing non-stop for two days.

He glanced at his hands, as if seeing them for the first time. His skin had a healthy glow, and he felt a surge of power coursing through his veins, steady and unyielding, a testament to his recent breakthrough. Jasper let out a breath, and a satisfied smile crept onto his face. His training, guided by the system, had been fruitful.

Soon after, the familiar 'ding' noise reverberated in his head, bringing him back to his senses. He opened his eyes, quickly shifting his attention to the system's notification. Despite his recent breakthrough, he was still eager for the system's reward.

[Ding. Ding. Mission Completed! Reward: Upgrade in a minor cultivation realm]

While the notification still hung in his consciousness, Jasper felt an influx of Spirit Qi flowing from his bones and muscles towards his dantian, the location of his first Spirit Swirl. He felt an innate connection with the Spirit Qi that originated from his very being, yet he couldn't control it - at least not yet.

Guided by the system, the Spirit Qi navigated towards his dantian, gradually filling it up and condensing the Qi. In no time at all, another 100 wisps of Spirit Qi were gathered, forming a second Qi swirl. Once all of his Qi had calmed down, Jasper excitedly utilized both swirls to circulate the Spirit Qi.

To his astonishment and joy, the Spirit Qi was more than twice as effective! It circulated not only at twice the speed but also boasted an increased power compared to before. This development excited Jasper, indicating a new level of cultivation and potential growth.

In the throes of his excitement, fatigue became a forgotten sentiment for Jasper. He swiftly got back on his feet and returned to practicing his sword techniques, an eager glint in his eyes. He was keen to explore the extent of his newfound power and see how it would enhance his martial prowess. The air around him crackled with energy as he began to move, each swing of his sword carrying a sense of amplified strength and vitality.

***

From the depths of his consciousness, the ancient cultivator observed Jasper's actions with a tranquil gaze. He witnessed the Spirit Qi flowing through Jasper's body, recognizing it as the energy he had once stored within the boy's bones, muscles, and meridians.

It was a unique spectacle, seeing his precious Qi being used so readily. Yet, the sight didn't evoke feelings of loss or resentment. Instead, the cultivator was filled with a sense of satisfaction. The Qi was originally meant for Jasper, a reward for his diligence and bravery, and to also to create a safety measure incase Jasper betrayed him.

As Jasper continued to practice, the ancient cultivator could feel the rising levels of energy within the boy's body. Jasper was absorbing the Qi more proficiently than before, his body instinctively adapting to the increased power.

But what intrigued the ancient cultivator the most was Jasper's reaction to this newfound strength. Rather than taking it for granted or being overwhelmed, Jasper displayed a resolve that mirrored the burning flame of a candle - steady, determined, and refusing to wane, regardless of how strenuous the journey might become. It was a refreshing contrast to what the cultivator had observed in his past life, where young masters often misused their power, treating their family's servants as mere boxing bags to demonstrate their enhanced abilities. Such incidents were commonplace in his world, where the powerful wielded their strength irresponsibly. However, this boy, Jasper, was different. His perseverance and humble nature served as a soothing breeze amid the stormy seas of power and dominance.