Chapter 47: Duty of a qi sensor
The chamber seemed to reverberate with the aftermath of Elrian's exploration into the Sky Lion's Wind symbol. Despite the overwhelming surge of newfound abilities, Elrian felt a pull towards a more conventional cultivation session. With all that he had experienced, the expansion of his Qi pool felt like an essential next step. He settled once again into his meditation posture, this time his focus solely on the swirling Qi within him.
He returned his inner gaze to his Qi reservoir, finding it shimmering like a serene lake with greenish hue. The liquid-like energy was at its usual levels, but Elrian noticed the boundaries pulsating, as if yearning to break free. He channeled his focus towards gently pushing these boundaries outward, urging the Qi to flow and expand into previously uncharted territories within his inner landscape.
Time seemed to blur as he fell into a rhythm, his mind harmoniously synchronized with the ebb and flow of his Qi. There were moments where it felt like the expansion would happen instantaneously, his energy bursting forth into new domains. Yet, the reality proved to be a slow, methodical process, akin to a craftsman meticulously chipping away at a stone to reveal the sculpture within.
After what felt like hours, he sensed a subtle shift. Though not a grand or dramatic change, his Qi reservoir had expanded, albeit by a minuscule 0.1cm. It was a marginal gain, yet in the grand tapestry of his cultivation journey, each minuscule thread contributed to the overall design.
Drawing himself out of the meditative trance, he felt a mild sense of accomplishment coupled with a tinge of frustration. His recent foray into the abilities of the Sky Lion's Wind symbol had somewhat overshadowed this minor achievement. In that realm, he had felt like a powerful sorcerer wielding the elements, while here, he was reminded of the long, arduous path that still lay ahead of him.
With the night deepening, Elrian finally decided to rest. The bed felt particularly inviting, its soft linens a gentle embrace after a day filled with both triumphs and reminders of his limitations. As he lay there, he took a few moments to reflect on the day's lessons. His parents' wisdom about independent practice, the limitations of his current Qi pool, and most vividly, the astonishing capabilities unlocked by the Sky Lion's Wind symbol.
Closing his eyes, he drifted into a peaceful, dreamless sleep, a rare occurrence after the enigmatic dreams that had been his companions of late. Perhaps his mind recognized that he needed the respite, a calm night to rejuvenate for the adventures that would inevitably follow.
When morning rays finally pierced through the curtains, Elrian woke up feeling a remarkable sense of energy, as if the sleep had not only rested his body but also recharged his inner reservoir of Qi. There was no trace of fatigue; instead, an eagerness to engage with the new day and its untold possibilities infused him.
As he stretched and began to prepare for the day, the experiences of yesterday loomed large in his mind. They were like guideposts, marking both how far he had come and hinting at the endless road that stretched out before him. Whether it was the painstaking but essential task of expanding his Qi reservoir or the exhilarating experience of harnessing wind through the Sky Lion's symbol, each was a step—some small, some giant—on his cultivation path.
He felt both humbled and energized by these thoughts, his spirit buoyed by the duality of his limitations and potential. The day awaited him, a blank canvas upon which he could paint the strokes of his ongoing journey, a journey whose end was as mysterious as the symbols and ancient lore that guided him. And so, filled with this profound sense of readiness, Elrian stepped out of his room, ready to embrace whatever challenges and opportunities the new day would bring.
As Elrian sat down for breakfast with his parents, the atmosphere was tinged with anticipation. His mother served a hearty meal, as if intuiting the energy he would need for the day ahead. His father was unusually pensive, finally breaking the silence with a deep breath.
"We've been focusing a lot on your training recently, Elrian, and haven't had a chance to talk about some of the responsibilities that come with being a Qi cultivator in this village," his father began, meeting his gaze squarely. "You know, it's not all just about personal growth and skills."
His mother chimed in, "Yes, you see, our village relies heavily on monster cores for a variety of needs. These cores help sustain the protective barriers around the village, power some of the basic utilities, and are also used in crafting various tools and medicines."
His father continued, "As registered Qi cultivators at the Qi Initiate stage, your mother and I have a quota to fulfill. We are required to contribute at least five creature cores to the village every month. Because we've been focusing on your training, we're short by two cores this month. So, we'll need to make a trip to the forest to hunt some Qi-sensing creatures."
Elrian felt a weight settle in. The privileges of being a Qi cultivator weren't without obligations. It was a moment of realization, a glimpse into the complexities of the life he was stepping into.
"Given your recent progress," his father added, locking eyes with him, "we think it's time for you to join us. You've been working on your sword skills; this will be an excellent opportunity for you to test them in real combat situations."
His mother added, "At first, you'll engage with mortal creatures, those without Qi. As we venture deeper and encounter Qi-sensing creatures, you can assist us by attacking from the side while we lead from the front. Your new capabilities could be of great help."
Elrian felt a surge of excitement. It was a chance not only to fulfill a civic duty but also to test his skills and new abilities in a practical setting. A blend of nervousness and eagerness gripped him as he nodded in agreement. "I'm ready," he stated, feeling the full weight of the words as they left his mouth.
"Good," his father said, his eyes showing a mix of pride and expectation. "We'll leave after breakfast. Make sure you're prepared. And remember, the forest is unpredictable. Stay alert."
Finishing their meal, the sense of purpose hung thick in the air. Elrian quickly retreated to his room to gather his sword and a few other essentials. As he picked up the blade, the reality of the situation hit him. This was no longer just practice; the risks were real, but so were the opportunities for growth and understanding.
Today, he wasn't just a student. He was a cultivator with duties and responsibilities, one step closer to the complexities and demands of the life he had chosen. And so, armed with his sword and the wisdom from his newfound abilities, he joined his parents as they made their way towards the forest, ready to face whatever challenges lay in wait.
Gifts
-- Gift
received Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone