Palace of Knowledge
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In Yu Qingxuan's residence.
Kai, who had already donned an elegant dress, arrived in the courtyard.
He wore a set of dark tones, in perfect harmony with his jet-black hair and amethyst eyes. The suit, crafted from the highest quality fabrics, featured refined details that accentuated his slender and elegant figure.
The outfit consisted of a long-sleeved tunic with simple yet elegant lines, adorned with subtle embroideries that added a touch of sophistication. The pants, snug but comfortable, fell in soft folds around his legs, enhancing his now confident and assured demeanor.
Kai complemented his attire with discreet yet meaningful accessories. A black leather belt, decorated with ancient symbols, encircled his waist, accentuating his athletic figure. In his hand, he wore a jade ring engraved with mysterious inscriptions.
Sitting once again across from elder brother Yu.
Yu Qingxuan asked cautiously, "Child... younger brother Kia, do you feel comfortable in that attire?"
Kai responded with a grateful smile. "Thank you, elder brother Yu. I feel quite good in it..." Although, truth be told, the pants were a bit tight.
Yu Qingxuan calmed his fluctuating emotions. "If you need to purchase anything, there is a market at the foot of the mountain. There's only a larger one in Zhennancheng. When you register the brothel later this month, you can have a look there."
Awkwardly, Kai murmured, "I don't have any money..."
A faint smile graced Yu Qingxuan's lips. "You should have spiritual stones in the spatial ring the master gave you. You can exchange them for money, though it's not a large amount. But don't worry, once you enter the Heart Gu realm, you'll be able to perform some tasks to earn rewards."
Kai nodded resolutely. "Yes!" He remembered that Taoist Xiaoyao had also given him a spatial ring, filled with spiritual stones, gold, and silver.
Yu Qingxuan continued explaining.
"Younger brother Kai, I'll continue telling you about the Heart Gu realm."
In fact, it's not uncommon to see demons in the world.
The most common thing is hatred!
The reason many demons are strong is because they suffered a bloody feud when they were growing demons.
To avenge themselves, they can sacrifice everything, including their soul.
As a result, in the Heart Gu realm, one can surpass their potential and obtain powerful strength in a short period of time...
Kai asked curiously, "Brother Yu, how many stages are there in the Heart Gu Realm?"
Yu Qingxuan leaned forward, his eyes shining with a flash of wisdom as he began to explain the stages of the Heart Gu Realm to Kai.
"The stages of the Heart Gu Realm are crucial for any cultivator wishing to follow the demonic path," he began, his voice resonating with authority and accumulated knowledge over the years. "There are five stages in total, with each stage divided into initial stage, half-step, peak, and perfection, marking a milestone on the path to mastering demonic power."
"The first stage is called Zhongmo, which translates to 'sowing demons.' Here is where the cultivator begins their journey by cultivating demons and sowing the seeds of their dark power. It is a phase of growth and development, where one learns to control and nurture the demonic strength within themselves."
"The second stage, Zhizhen, means 'establishing demons.' In this phase, the cultivator strengthens and stabilizes their connection to demonic power, establishing a solid foundation for future advancements. It is a time of consolidation and refinement, where one masters the fundamental skills of the demonic path."
"Then we have the third stage, Tianzun, which translates to 'demon sovereign.' Here is where the cultivator begins to wield truly dominant control over their demonic power, reaching a level of mastery that sets them above their peers. It is a time of ascending to the throne, where one becomes the undisputed ruler of their own demonic realm."
"The fourth stage, Sanit, means 'demonic sanctuary.' In this phase, the cultivator reaches new heights of power and wisdom, delving into the deepest mysteries of the demonic path. It is a time of revelation and transcendence, where one becomes a beacon of darkness in a world of light."
"Finally, the fifth stage, Wudao, translates to 'demonic awakening.' Here is where the cultivator reaches the pinnacle of their power and knowledge, ascending to a state of demonic divinity. It is a time of transcendence and realization, where one becomes a supreme being, feared and revered by all who surround them."
Yu Qingxuan paused for a moment, allowing the words to settle in Kai's mind. "These are the stages of the Heart Gu Realm," he concluded solemnly.
"As for the Sea of Bitterness about the Heart Gu, no one in our Hehuan Sect has set foot in it for a long time since the ancient sect leader retired..."
Kai assessed in his mind.
He had just become a demon, so he was at the beginning of his growth stage, so he was quite weak.
Yu Qingxuan's words resonated in Kai's mind as he evaluated his own strength. Before entering the Heart Gu Realm, he had been a mere mortal, limited by the restrictions of the earthly world. But now, with the power of the demon burning within him, he felt as if he were touching the limits of the universe itself.
However, as he reflected on his own growth, he couldn't help but wonder about the sect leaders. "Elder brother Yu, what realm are the master, the sect leader, and the grand elder in?" he asked curiously.
Yu Qingxuan took a moment to consider Kai's question before responding. "The master has reached the fourth stage 'Sanit' at half-step," he explained. "He is a formidable cultivator who has mastered the arts of the Heart Gu Realm to its current limit."
"As for the sect leader, he is still stuck in the third stage 'Tianzun'," Yu Qingxuan continued. "And the Grand Elder... I believe he has reached the fourth stage 'Sanit' at perfection."
"Most of the sect disciples. They are all in the first stage of demon cultivation, and only a few direct disciples like me are at the top."
Yu Qingxuan continued: "I see you as a future leader in our Hehuan Sect in ten years, young Kai," he said with a smile. "With your talent and dedication, I'm sure you'll reach great heights on the demonic path."
Ten years...
Kai sighed. In the eyes of these cultivators, ten years is like a week to me.
"Elder brother Yu, talk to me... how old are you this year?"
Yu Qingxuan seems surprised by the question, but then a mischievous smile spreads across his face.
"Oh... uh no, younger brother Kai, are you asking about my age? I'm forty years into cultivation this year."
Kai looks at him in amazement.
"You still look young! Is that what Dual Cultivation grants you... maintaining that appearance?"
Yu Qingxuan nods proudly, revealing his vanity.
"It's a small benefit of dedicating my life to cultivation. But remember, Kai, in our path, appearance is as crucial as power itself."
Kai nods, understanding the emphasis on image
in his sect.
"I understand, elder brother. Our true strength lies in our presence, in how we present ourselves to the world."
Yu Qingxuan smiles, satisfied to have instilled the importance of image in his young brother.
….
In the tranquil morning light, elder brother Yu Qingxuan became Kai's wise guide, unraveling the mysteries of the world of immortality. Sitting in the courtyard, surrounded by the serenity of nature, Yu Qingxuan shared his wisdom with his young disciple.
His words flowed like a serene stream, filling the air with knowledge accumulated over centuries. He explained clearly and patiently how to control strength during the demon's growth period, a vital skill on the path of demonic cultivation.
Kai listened attentively, absorbing every word eagerly. As Yu Qingxuan shared his thoughts, Kai delved deeper into the world of cultivation, feeling the vastness and complexity of his path ahead.
Among the teachings, Yu Qingxuan mentioned his sect's secret technique: the "Yin Yang Jue." This technique, closely guarded by the Hehuan Sect, was essential for the growth and protection of its disciples. Kai understood the importance of mastering this unique skill and eagerly looked forward to beginning his training.
With a mixture of anticipation and determination, Kai nodded as his mentor explained the need to personally study in the Pavilion of Ancient Scriptures. There, amidst ancient texts and forbidden knowledge, Kai hoped to unravel some secrets of this world.
…
Amidst the tranquil and somber autumn breeze, Galaxy returned from fishing in the mountain stream, bringing with him two baskets brimming with varieties of fish: silver carps, bighead carps, and herbivorous carps. With skill, he prepared the grilled fish, carefully adding some garnishes to enhance its flavor.
The tempting aroma of grilled fish filled the air, enveloping the courtyard of the Qingxuan House in a cozy and comforting atmosphere. The three brothers sat together, enjoying the hot dishes and accompanying them with wine, immersed in the beauty of that demon cultivation day.
Kai admired his elder brother Galaxy, who demonstrated a profound knowledge and skill in life that came from years of experience in the sect. With nearly three hundred years of membership, Galaxy boasted an even higher level of cultivation than Yu Qingxuan, giving him a natural authority in teaching demonic arts.
During the meal, Galaxy imparted some informal instructions to Kai, emphasizing the importance of mastering the "Yin Yang Jue," the foundation of all techniques and forbidden exercises of the Hehuan Sect. He warned Kai about the need to learn this skill before venturing into more advanced practices, such as Goulan training.
Driven by Galaxy's words, Kai bid farewell to his companions, leaving Lingwu Gu territory and heading to the majestic Tibetan Scriptures Pavilion of the sect.
-
The Tibetan Scriptures Pavilion rose majestically in the heart of the Hehuan Sect, imposing and unique in its design. Its structure soared high into the sky, defying gravity with its slender towers and adorned domes. The pavilion's walls were lined with intricate stone carvings, depicting ancient symbols of wisdom and power.
The entrance doors, gigantic and ornate, were flanked by sculptures of dragons and phoenixes, mythical guardians that watched over the access to the vast knowledge contained within. As disciples approached the pavilion, they could feel the ancestral energy emanating from its walls, imbued with the essence of cultivation.
The interior of the pavilion was as vast as an imperial palace, with endless corridors stretching in all directions. Solid wood shelves were meticulously lined along the walls, laden with countless scrolls of ancient Tibetan scriptures and sacred manuscripts. The filtered light through the tall windows gently illuminated the yellowed pages, creating a mystical and solemn atmosphere.
At the center of the pavilion stood an imposing raised platform, where sect masters imparted their teachings and disciples gathered to study and meditate. The high ceilings were adorned with intricate frescoes depicting scenes from the sect's history and the feats of its ancient leaders.
In every corner of the pavilion, small altars dedicated to gods and protective spirits could be found, adorned with candles, incense, and offerings of fruits and flowers. The atmosphere was steeped in a sense of reverence and respect as disciples delved into the ancient wisdom that lay within each page and scroll.
As Kai walked towards the entrance, where he attracted the attention of many disciples due to his appearance, he was greeted by a gigantic door and a plaque containing golden characters that shone intensely, which he couldn't understand.
But he knew for sure that these words meant the palace of knowledge!
This situation reminded him of his first day at university, where he went straight to the library to see the information it held.
And as today was his first day joining the sect, naturally, he wanted to come to the Tibetan Scriptures Pavilion to experience it!
"Whoever comes, stop here."
Out of nowhere, a person emerged, whom Kai supposedly believed was the guardian of the pavilion, an elderly somewhat unkempt, short and chubby, with a gourd hanging from his waist, which surely contained wine.
Despite having entered the Heart Gu Realm, improving all his senses, Kai could not detect the arrival of the elderly man and could not perceive anything from this individual.
And as a frequent reader of cultivation novels, he instantly realized that this was a powerhouse!
Kai cupped his hands in front of the fat old man and said respectfully, "It is a pleasure to meet the elder. My name is Kai, and I just enrolled in the sect today. So I am here to try out the techniques."
"Hic ~"
"First time here? Register with me so you can enter."
"I remind you that some forbidden techniques cannot be taken. But the rest is fine, go ahead."
…
Once done with the old man, Kai walked slowly and cautiously down the pavilion's hallway, observing shelves filled with books. He was surprised to find that the characters written on the book spines were ancient and unfamiliar, more mysterious than the hieroglyphs of a forgotten temple.
Frustration washed over him as he realized that, despite speaking Chinese, understanding those writings eluded him.
"Oops! I forgot to tell Galaxy that I can't read," he muttered to himself, still not used to calling him elder brother, scratching his head thoughtfully. The irony of being in a world of immortality but facing the barrier of illiteracy elicited a nervous laugh under his breath.
Determined not to waste any more time, Kai turned to leave the pavilion and seek help from his elder brother Yu. But before he could take a single step, a deep and authoritative voice stopped him in his tracks.
"Hic! Kid!"
Kai turned towards the voice of a drunken man and found the old man who had been silent until then. He was surprised by the sudden intervention.
"Why are you leaving so soon?" asked the old man, somewhat disoriented by alcohol, watching Kai curiously.
With a sigh of frustration, Kai explained, "Elder, I want to learn the Yin Yang Jue, but I can't read."
The old man, who had seemed confused a moment ago, instantly regained clarity in his eyes and remained silent for a moment, squinting as if evaluating the situation.
Finally, he broke the silence with words of wisdom: "You're new here, aren't you? You don't need to read the Yin Yang Jue; it's all pictures. But be careful not to dirty the pages."
Kai: ???
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[To read advanced chapters and support me, here is my link to patreon: - patreon.com/Athome790]