Chapter 2: The Master

Ethan stood in a spacious courtyard, surrounded by lush gardens and soaring pagodas. He felt the sun on his skin, the wind in his hair, and the familiar weight of his training robes, now embroidered with the Lowell family crest. At his side stood Mei, her expression calm and inscrutable.

He had spent the past week adjusting to life in the estate, acclimating to the rhythms of cultivation, and exploring the vast expanse of the estate. But now, as he stood in the courtyard, he felt a sense of anticipation building within him. He was about to meet his master, the one who would guide him on his path to becoming an immortal.

Ethan heard footsteps approaching, and he turned to see a figure approaching. As the figure drew closer, he saw that it was an old man, with a face weathered by time and a beard that cascaded down his chest. The man wore simple robes, but he moved with the fluid grace of a dancer, and his eyes shone with a fierce intelligence.

"Ethan, this is your master, Liang Mei," Mei said, bowing to the old man.

Ethan bowed as well, feeling a sense of awe and respect wash over him. This was his master, the one who had dedicated his life to the pursuit of cultivation, and who would now impart his knowledge to Ethan.

The old man regarded Ethan with a piercing gaze, and then nodded. "You are Ethan, the new disciple of the Lowell family. I have heard much about you."

Ethan felt a twinge of nerves, wondering what Liang Mei had heard about him. He hoped he had not disappointed his family or his master in any way.

Liang Mei seemed to sense his unease, and he smiled. "Do not worry, Ethan. You are young and full of potential. I will teach you everything you need to know about cultivation, but it will be up to you to put in the hard work and dedication required."

With those words, Liang Mei began to lead Ethan through a series of exercises and drills, teaching him the basics of qi manipulation, physical conditioning, and meditation. Ethan struggled at first, unused to the demands of cultivation, but Liang Mei was patient and encouraging, correcting his mistakes and offering advice.

As the day wore on, Ethan felt a sense of exhaustion creeping over him, but also a feeling of exhilaration. He was on the path to becoming an immortal, and he had a master who believed in him. He resolved to work harder, to learn faster, and to prove himself worthy of the honor bestowed upon him.

As the sun began to set, Liang Mei dismissed Ethan, telling him to rest and to prepare for the challenges to come. Ethan bowed to his master, feeling a sense of gratitude and respect. He knew that the path ahead would be difficult, but with his master's guidance, he felt ready to face anything.