that was obviously a joke about the lack of respect for intellectual property at china today.
In a Cultivation World with a Cheat System (Xianxia inspired quest).
- Thread starter Kolarthecool
- Start date
- Original Fantasy
that was obviously a joke about the lack of respect for intellectual property at china today.
Leingod
Immaculate Blooming Lotus
It's probably for the best, honestly; if China cared about IP laws they'd be suing us for all this gunpowder we've been making and selling without their permission.
The Froggy Ninja
The Blade Will Never Die
Roll the Dice on Fate (Naruto SI)
I thought this was dead or on hiatus or something but it turns out I either got sick of it and unsubscribed in one of my depressive fits or accidentally unsubscribed for unrelated reasons. Guess I'll add it to the reading pile.
Kolarthecool
Hiding from the light of day.
- Location
- Calgary, Canada.
Soory for the delay on the next chapter everyone. I keep having a block on writing out the coversation with his parents. I'm thinking of just scrapping what I have now and taking things from a different angle.
The Froggy Ninja
The Blade Will Never Die
Who's been using twelve gauge times new roman in their submission descriptions? Stop it.
- Location
- New Mexico
The Philistines! Everyone knows that the only pure offering in textual documentation must be Comic Sans!
Leingod
Immaculate Blooming Lotus
Clearly the bigger problem is that whomever it is uses such boring names for everything. Why, almost all of them are only a single word!
EDIT: I can't believe I didn't think to name the "Cannibalistic Elixir Gourd" the "Cannibal's Elixir Gourd." Oh well, live and learn.
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The Froggy Ninja
The Blade Will Never Die
Fixed.Clearly the bigger problem is that whomever it is uses such boring names for everything. Why, almost all of them are only a single word!
EDIT: I can't believe I didn't think to name the "Cannibalistic Elixir Gourd" the "Cannibal's Elixir Gourd." Oh well, live and learn.
Sir LagsAlot
Yandere Dice Magnet
- Location
- In the fridge
Under patent law the original holders patent would have expired centuries ago and no one renewed it or filed one originally any ways so no individual person or government has any right to the invention.
That was me and I apologize I saw others formatting their descriptions that way and assumed that was how descriptions were supposed to be formatted.
I reject your accusation of boring and short name convention good sir! I have submitted 17 total ideas to the shop and so far 11 have had more then one word names with only the remaining 6 having one word names!Clearly the bigger problem is that whomever it is uses such boring names for everything. Why, almost all of them are only a single word!
EDIT: I can't believe I didn't think to name the "Cannibalistic Elixir Gourd" the "Cannibal's Elixir Gourd." Oh well, live and learn.
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A1C5: Meet the Parents (1).
Kolarthecool
Hiding from the light of day.
- Location
- Calgary, Canada.
Glossary has been updated!
XxxOxxX
In a Cultivation World with a Cheat System.
Arc One: The Clan Zhang.
Chapter Five: Meet the Parents (1).
XxxOxxX
[O] A grandpa did it!
-[O] Fed me a goldfish.
Two hours later, a clean and refreshed Zhang Tian finds himself standing within a small chamber beneath the Clan Head's manor. After repeating the tale he concocted for his parents, Zhang Tian was immediately rushed into this small room.
The room Zhang Tian stands within is ten paces long and wide. It is constructed of a dark colored stone that has been cut into multiple slabs. All along the walls, floor, and roof of the room, there are a number of arcane looking runes drawn on the material. From time to time, sections of these runic inscriptions will light up with a certain color, causing an aura of the same color to appear around Zhang Tian. The whole while, Zhang Tian stands in the center of the room with his eyes closed as he keeps a steady breath. Time passes slowly for the young teen but Zhang Tian simply allows his mind to wander as he thinks of the future.
Finally, after an unknown period of time, the small room is plunged into darkness as the runes lose their light. A few seconds pass before, with a quiet rumble, a section of the wall in front of Zhang Tian slides away to reveal a dimly lit hallway. Opening his eyes, Zhang Tian walks towards the revealed doorway with calm, measured steps. As he exits the small room, Zhang Tian's eyes land on the figures of two middle-aged men standing in the wide, stone-bricked hallway.
The first man is tall and wide shouldered. His face is clean-shaven, with dark green eyes that seem to exude a sense of pressure. He has short, black hair with a few streaks of gray at the temples. His expression is stern but Zhang Tian can note a hint of worry as the man looks him over.
This man is Zhang Hai, father of Zhang Tian and patriarch of the Zhang clan.
The second man is short and wiry, with darkly tanned skin. He has long gray hair, steely black eyes, and a soot-stained beard that hangs down to his chest. Spots of blackness and reddened skin decorate this man's hands and parts of his face, common signs of someone that works with explosively volatile materials.
This man is Zhang Nien, the third elder of the Zhang clan. He is also the Zhang clan's pride and joy, a three-star Alchemist of great renown.
In this world, there are a number of professions that only cultivators are able to take up. Spirit forging, inscription carving and pill mixing stand among the top of these few professions. Of them all, it is the pill mixing ability of the Alchemist that is the most well regarded. Being able to create pills and fluids that aid cultivation and healing, a capable Alchemist is a commodity that is sought by everyone. Within the great clans and sects, any member with a talent in alchemy will receive the full backing and support of their group. No measure is spared when it comes to nurturing an Alchemist.
Even then, those with the talent are quite rare. Pill mixing requires a great deal of skill in manipulating Qi, as well as an affinity for the Fire element; though the latter is not always required. As with everything else, there is a ranking system used in the various professions. A nine-star ranking system where one-star is the lowest and nine-stars is the best.
Within the Zhang clan, there are just over a dozen one-star ranked Alchemists, five two-stars, and a single three-star. Aside from them, there are a hundred and over apprentices working to earn their one-star ranking. This small number is already considered quite good. In the whole of Grand Ye, the highest ranking Alchemist is a five-star belonging to the Royal clan. Other than that, there are less than a thousand three and four-star rankers. The reason for this is the difficulty in advancing through the profession.
To become a one-star Alchemist, one just needs to be capable of creating a Qi flame in order to operate the pill cauldron and mix pills. This is an ability that requires the cultivator to be in the intermediate stage of the Core Formation realm at a minimum.
To advance to a two-star Alchemist, the cultivator needs to master over a thousand pill materials and show understanding on how these different materials can be correctly mixed. They must also be capable of crafting Mortal-rank pills with a failure rate higher than fifty percent. This is a stage that most Alchemists can easily reach with some years of training.
To advance to a three-star Alchemist, however, the cultivator needs to now branch out to other professions. A basic understanding of low-rank diagnostic type inscriptions and formations is absolutely required, both the manner in which to create them and the way to understand the results. The Alchemist also requires an intermediate level of mastery in medicine, as well as other matters concerning the body and soul. Lastly, they must have a fifty percent or higher success rate in crafting Earth-rank pills. This is a difficult rank to reach, only one in ten alchemists are capable of managing it, and the requirements for the ranks beyond this are no easier.
So, it can be understood why, upon hearing Zhang Tian's tale, Zhang Hai immediately summoned the third elder and escorted the two down to a preprepared scanning room. As the only three-star Alchemist in the clan, it is the third elder that handles any matters regarding pills and medicine beyond the basics. The third elder was also the one to investigate Zhang Tian's problems cultivating all those years ago, and he was the one that diagnosed the problem.
So, one can understand the look of utter astonishment on his face as he stares at Zhang Tian.
"Father, Third Elder." Zhang Tian greets, bowing to the two with all the grace and poise of a noble scion.
Zhang Hai offers a short nod in return before turning to Zhang Nien.
"Third Elder, how is it?"
Hearing the question, Zhang Nien seems to snap awake as he shakes his head clear. The look of flabbergast on his face is soon replaced with a warm smile as he looks on Zhang Tian.
"It's just as Xiao* Tian says, his Spiritual Roots have been completely repaired. Moreover, his soul has been strengthed to an unknown degree and his body purged of many years of accumulated impurities. It is as if I'm looking at a Zhang Tian that has cultivated for many years."
*Xiao mean little. An affectionate way of addressing someone.
Despite the good news, Zhang Hai still has a solemn look on his face.
"Are there any problems?"
Zhang Nien pauses to think, a frown appearing on his face as he falls into a deep thought. The father and son duo remain silent, giving Zhang Nien all the time he needs to recall the diagnostic information. Finally, after a few seconds of silence, he shakes his head.
"Nothing. The scans show no signs of any side-effects and whatever remains of the medicine, it left Xiao Tian's body with the impurities. This medicine… it not one I've ever heard of before."
Sighing, the elder turns to Zhang Tian. There is a hint of excitement in his eyes now, the thought of a new pill ingredient he has never heard of before igniting his passion.
"Xiao Tian, you say it looked like a fish?"
Zhang Tian nods.
"A goldfish, Third Elder. It was around the size of my hand and very plump. The scales shined in the light and the eyes looked like they still had life in them. When I went to cook it, the Senior told me to eat it raw instead. Only after that first bite did I discover that it wasn't a fish at all, it was a fruit with a sweet and juicy flavor."
This is, of course, a made up medicine that Zhang Tian has invented for his tale. No item like it exists in all of Ye Country but the description sounds close enough to some of those mystical spiritual fruits from ancient times that it is believable.
As for why Zhang Tian would even eat the strange fruit in the first place, neither of these two can even think to question it. For a powerful cultivator, dealing with a single Zhang Tian is as easy as turning their palm. There is no need for any trickery or lies, so why would Zhang Tian suspect anything about the fruit. At the same time, one must also show respect for their elders. Moreso when that elder is a powerful Senior offering strange food. If this unknown Senior was to appear before Zhang Hai or Zhang Nien and give them a strange fruit to eat, they would eat it right away.
It's just common sense.
"A fruit in the shape of a goldfish… why a goldfish? Prosperity and wealth?… and these sorts of effects, what would happen if I use it to mix that pill… or this one..."
As the third elder mumbles to himself in thought, Zhang Hai turns to Zhang Tian with a pleased look on his face.
"Tian'er, congratulations. Father is happy for you."
Knowing how much his son wished to cultivate all those years ago and being unable to cure his illness, Zhang Hai is immensely happy at his son's great fortune. There are, of course, some matters of worry but those are not things to burden his son with at this time. After all these years, the heavens have finally smiled upon his hardworking son.
"Thank you, Father."
"Tian'er, Father will spread this news for you. By the end of the day, everyone in Crimsonwood will celebrate for your good fortune."
Zhang Tian nods in acceptance, already understanding his father's train of thought. Something like this won't remain secret for long, not once he begins cultivating at least. Others are bound to notice eventually, so it is better for the Zhang clan to spread the news first and turn it into a matter of celebration. Moreover, something like this will do great things for the clan's reputation. Commoners that will only receive the basic information and rumors will talk about how the Zhang clan has recieved a blessing from the heavens. Meanwhile, those clans and groups that oppose the Zhang clan will have to tread carefully until they can learn more about this unknown Senior that may have ties to the Zhang clan.
Zhang Hai frowns, looking at a loss. Sighing, the older man claps a hand on Zhang Tian's shoulder. There is a glimmer of pride and happiness within his eyes as he looks upon his son.
"Ah, I suppose there is no need to look for a teacher. When it comes to these matters, Father can believe in Tian'er. Tomorrow, look for the Sixth and Eighth Elders. All those cultivation materials you haven't been able to use all these years, take them and use as you see fit. Come and find Father if you have any problems."
The sixth and eighth elders of the Zhang clan are, respectively, the overseers of the clan archive and resource allocation. Everyone in the clan has to go through them in order to receive cultivation manuals, innate techniques, and pills. As for the mention of a teacher; even being unable to cultivate all of these years, Zhang Tian is beyond the point where he needs such a person.
The path of cultivation is a long and solitary one. Every single cultivator has their own path to walk; their own comprehensions to make; their own Dao to decipher. Though it is possible to get some guidance while walking down this path, ultimately, one must walk alone if they wish to reach the peak of cultivation.
Cultivation might seem like a simple matter of using Qi to refine the body and soul, and truly it is like that at the beginning, but as one progresses further down the path, they will realize that there is more to it than that. To cultivate is to go against the heavens. How can one defy the heavenly laws with a paltry bit of energy and a strong body? The answer, they cannot.
To reach the peak of cultivation, one must strive to decipher the Dao of all things. They must comprehend the truth of the universe, and through this understanding, elevate themselves beyond the constraints of heaven.
The teachers Zhang Hai speaks of, are those experts that can be hired to pass on their own comprehensions regarding cultivation. Though it is impossible to guide another through their path, by listening to the comprehensions of other cultivators, one can gain insights into their own path. The help of a teacher can be invaluable to a budding cultivator.
Except, that stored within the archives of the Zhang clan, are the personal notes of countless generations of cultivators. With such a resource at his fingertips, how can the knowledge of a handful more people possibly help Zhang Tian?
Another job that is usually left for the teacher, is to help the student determine their Qi affinity. Be it for a certain element, or for a particular style of Weapon Intent, knowing the affinity of ones Qi can give immeasurable benefits while cultivating. By determining these things, the teacher can recommend suitable cultivation manuals and innate techniques for the student to focus on.
Again, it is a service that Zhang Tian does not require. Inside the Zhang clan treasury are all manner of Qi and Soul testing formation plates. Though it would be costly for a servant of the clan, getting his hands on one and checking his affinity is a simple matter for Zhang Tian.
The last matter that a teacher handles, is instructing the student in a number of different professions and hobbies. As stated before, the road of cultivation is unique for each person. Two people using the same cultivation art will always comprehend it in a different manner and at different speeds. This is a fact. As such, it can also be understood that not everyone can cultivate the same way. While sitting down to meditate works for many people, there are some that are unable to cultivate this way. Be it a matter of personality, their cultivation art or their Qi affinity, some people need to find unique ways to cultivate.
Some are better while active. Be it practicing a martial art, weapon style, or even a dance routine, these people find it easier to cultivate while their body is active. Others might need more calming activities. Playing an instrument, reading a book, or painting, these sorts of soothing activities can aid some people in achieving the proper mindset to drive their cultivation to its fullest. Methods will vary from person to person. The job of these teachers is to teach their students as many of these various activities as they can in order to pin down which one helps their cultivation speed the most. Because of this, most cultivators will have at least a basic level of mastery in a number of different professions and talents.
As the scion of a great clan, Zhang Tian has already gained instruction in all these activities and more. Though increasing his knowledge base has always been most important to him, Zhang Tian has achieved at least an initiate mastery level on a variety of different subjects.
If Zhang Tian was still young, Zhang Hai would consider hiring a teacher. Though there are many members in the Zhang clan, one needs experience when dealing with young and easily distracted minds. But Zhang Tian is no longer a child. He does not need to be treated carefully. He can be trusted to seek out aid should he need it and find information within the archives on his own. Ultimately, hiring a teacher for the current Zhang Tian would just be a waste of resources.
Zhang Tian nods in understanding of his father's words. As a son of the clan head, he is obviously allowed access to clan resources without the need for contribution tokens. It's just that in all these years, he has not been able to cash in on this privilege. Now that things have changed, Zhang Tian can go wild and choose as he pleases. Moreover, his age and maturity means that he won't face the limitations that a younger him would have faced.
"It's good that you understand. Now, go and find your mother before she continues to worry. Father will see you later."
"En."
With another bow to Zhang Hai and Zhang Nien, Zhang Tian makes his way down the hallway towards the distant stairs leading back into the manor. As Zhang Tian's form disappears from sight, all sign of emotion drains from Zhang Hai's face. Gone is the proud and loving father of Zhang Tian, replaced with the ruthless patriarch of the Zhang clan.
"Come out."
Although there is only the two of them there, Zhang Nien doesn't speak up in reply to the command. Instead, the shadowed wall just a few paces away from them seems to bulge before disgorging a third figure.
This figure is another middle-aged man. The man's skin is unnaturally pale as if he has not seen the light of day for many years. His hair is long and lanky, a wild mess that gives his bearded face a feral appearance. His eyes are hooded, allowing only a glint of glowing red pupils to be seen.
"Clan Head, Cousin." The man greets. His voice is low and raspy but the two men are able to easily hear his words.
"Huo'er, how have you been?" Zhang Nien replies, there is the trace of a smile on his face as he looks at this other man.
Zhang Huo shrugs in answer.
"Busy."
Zhang Hai frowns at that. It is true that Zhang Huo has been quite busy in recent years. This is not a good thing.
Publicly, it is known that the Zhang clan has eight elders. The elders of the Zhang clan are those experts that, after many decades of hard work, have stepped into the third realm of cultivation. The role of these elders is to help guide and protect the Zhang clan. While Zhang Hai has final say in all things, it is the elders that help run the day to day matters of the Zhang clan. Aside from the clan ancestor that is in seclusion, the eight elders are also the final defense of the Zhang clan.
What few know, though many clans and sects suspect, is that there are actually nine elders in the Zhang clan. Zhang Huo is the hidden ninth elder of the Zhang clan, not even Zhang Tian or his older brother know of his existence. Zhang Huo is the one that works in the shadows, gathering information and acting in matters where the Zhang clan cannot be involved. All the clans and sects have such a person, sometimes even groups of them, but there is one thing that sets Zhang Huo apart from the rest. By sacrificing his future cultivation and crippling himself in the early stage of the third realm, Zhang Huo is able to use an unparalleled stealth based cultivation art. This art is so effective that Zhang Huo can even spy on those hidden monsters in the other clans and sects. Within Grand Ye, none can equal Zhang Huo when it comes to stealth.
For the last few years, Zhang Huo has been gathering information on the movements of the Zhang clan's enemies. It is only recently that he has returned with some dire news.
"Ninth Elder, my apologies but it seems that I might have more work for you." Zhang Hai says with a sigh.
Zhang Huo doesn't say anything, though some emotion flares in his eyes. It should be known that the one thing this man enjoys is testing his skills. To seek out an unknown expert and spy on them, this will be quite enjoyable for him.
"Within the area of Crimsonwood City, other than our Zhang clan's ancestor, there is only the ancestor of the Five Peaks Harmony sect. You should know that old woman never leaves her mountain. Whoever this Senior is, you must discover it."
There is no doubt in any of their minds that the person Zhang Tian encountered is a powerful expert. The miraculous medicine aside; the tale spun by Zhang Tian was more than enough to convince them all. According to Zhang Tian, he woke in the middle of the night due to some sound and found an old man sitting beside the campfire. When Zhang Tian tried to wake Cho Mang, the older man wouldn't wake and continued to sleep peacefully. Suspecting the identity of the old man, Zhang Tian respectfully offered some tea and food. The old man accepted and after asking some questions about the Crimsonwood Forest to the south, he handed Zhang Tian the strange goldfish. The old man vanished mysteriously while Zhang Tian was eating the fruit.
As long and worrisome as the tale is, it's the part with Cho Mang that really stands out. As someone who has cultivated for so long, it's easy for Cho Mang to go many weeks without needing to sleep. Coupled with his training as a guard, it's impossible to believe that Cho Mang would sleep through something capable of waking Zhang Tian, let alone the young teen's attempts to wake him. For something like that to happen, it can only be the work of another party. For Cho Mang to succumb without even the slightest struggle, the other party must have some extraordinary means, or the raw power to suppress Cho Mang. Neither option can be ignored.
"Start with the Crimsonwood Forest, this Senior seemed to have some interest in it."
"Ah!"
Looking to have suddenly realized something, Zhang Nien makes a sound that draws the attention of the other two. Seeing their looks, Zhang Nien coughs before smiling sheepishly.
"Sorry, I just had a thought. How did the Senior know about Xiao Tian's illness? Assuming they are new in the area and didn't know about it beforehand, the only way they could have known is by diagnosing him on the spot. With no formation array. Which means…"
Zhang Hai feels a chill in his heart as he realizes what Zhang Nien is saying.
"Medical Saint."
The words hang in the air ominously as the three men contemplate things. Medical Saint, the title awarded to five-star Alchemists. With years of experience and a powerful spirit sense, a five-star alchemist can easily diagnose a patient with a single glance. The only five-star alchemist in Grand Ye is the ancestor of the Royal clan. For another to be walking the land…
Zhang Hai frowns.
"Ninth elder, be careful. If there is any chance this senior belongs to that power… don't do anything to antagonize them."
Receiving a nod from Zhang Huo, Zhang Hai turns away.
"I will go and inform the ancestor."
The other two bow as the clan head walks away. After a moment, Zhang Huo nods to Zhang Nien before vanishing into the shadows. Left alone, Zhang Nien can only sigh before following after Zhang Hai. As he walks, the elder can't help but ponder the properties of this mysterious medicine and what sorts of pills he could mix with it. A pity that Zhang Tian ate the whole thing.
'Tsk. That boy has always been too wasteful.'
XxOxX
XxxOxxX
In a Cultivation World with a Cheat System.
Arc One: The Clan Zhang.
Chapter Five: Meet the Parents (1).
XxxOxxX
[O] A grandpa did it!
-[O] Fed me a goldfish.
Two hours later, a clean and refreshed Zhang Tian finds himself standing within a small chamber beneath the Clan Head's manor. After repeating the tale he concocted for his parents, Zhang Tian was immediately rushed into this small room.
The room Zhang Tian stands within is ten paces long and wide. It is constructed of a dark colored stone that has been cut into multiple slabs. All along the walls, floor, and roof of the room, there are a number of arcane looking runes drawn on the material. From time to time, sections of these runic inscriptions will light up with a certain color, causing an aura of the same color to appear around Zhang Tian. The whole while, Zhang Tian stands in the center of the room with his eyes closed as he keeps a steady breath. Time passes slowly for the young teen but Zhang Tian simply allows his mind to wander as he thinks of the future.
Finally, after an unknown period of time, the small room is plunged into darkness as the runes lose their light. A few seconds pass before, with a quiet rumble, a section of the wall in front of Zhang Tian slides away to reveal a dimly lit hallway. Opening his eyes, Zhang Tian walks towards the revealed doorway with calm, measured steps. As he exits the small room, Zhang Tian's eyes land on the figures of two middle-aged men standing in the wide, stone-bricked hallway.
The first man is tall and wide shouldered. His face is clean-shaven, with dark green eyes that seem to exude a sense of pressure. He has short, black hair with a few streaks of gray at the temples. His expression is stern but Zhang Tian can note a hint of worry as the man looks him over.
This man is Zhang Hai, father of Zhang Tian and patriarch of the Zhang clan.
The second man is short and wiry, with darkly tanned skin. He has long gray hair, steely black eyes, and a soot-stained beard that hangs down to his chest. Spots of blackness and reddened skin decorate this man's hands and parts of his face, common signs of someone that works with explosively volatile materials.
This man is Zhang Nien, the third elder of the Zhang clan. He is also the Zhang clan's pride and joy, a three-star Alchemist of great renown.
In this world, there are a number of professions that only cultivators are able to take up. Spirit forging, inscription carving and pill mixing stand among the top of these few professions. Of them all, it is the pill mixing ability of the Alchemist that is the most well regarded. Being able to create pills and fluids that aid cultivation and healing, a capable Alchemist is a commodity that is sought by everyone. Within the great clans and sects, any member with a talent in alchemy will receive the full backing and support of their group. No measure is spared when it comes to nurturing an Alchemist.
Even then, those with the talent are quite rare. Pill mixing requires a great deal of skill in manipulating Qi, as well as an affinity for the Fire element; though the latter is not always required. As with everything else, there is a ranking system used in the various professions. A nine-star ranking system where one-star is the lowest and nine-stars is the best.
Within the Zhang clan, there are just over a dozen one-star ranked Alchemists, five two-stars, and a single three-star. Aside from them, there are a hundred and over apprentices working to earn their one-star ranking. This small number is already considered quite good. In the whole of Grand Ye, the highest ranking Alchemist is a five-star belonging to the Royal clan. Other than that, there are less than a thousand three and four-star rankers. The reason for this is the difficulty in advancing through the profession.
To become a one-star Alchemist, one just needs to be capable of creating a Qi flame in order to operate the pill cauldron and mix pills. This is an ability that requires the cultivator to be in the intermediate stage of the Core Formation realm at a minimum.
To advance to a two-star Alchemist, the cultivator needs to master over a thousand pill materials and show understanding on how these different materials can be correctly mixed. They must also be capable of crafting Mortal-rank pills with a failure rate higher than fifty percent. This is a stage that most Alchemists can easily reach with some years of training.
To advance to a three-star Alchemist, however, the cultivator needs to now branch out to other professions. A basic understanding of low-rank diagnostic type inscriptions and formations is absolutely required, both the manner in which to create them and the way to understand the results. The Alchemist also requires an intermediate level of mastery in medicine, as well as other matters concerning the body and soul. Lastly, they must have a fifty percent or higher success rate in crafting Earth-rank pills. This is a difficult rank to reach, only one in ten alchemists are capable of managing it, and the requirements for the ranks beyond this are no easier.
So, it can be understood why, upon hearing Zhang Tian's tale, Zhang Hai immediately summoned the third elder and escorted the two down to a preprepared scanning room. As the only three-star Alchemist in the clan, it is the third elder that handles any matters regarding pills and medicine beyond the basics. The third elder was also the one to investigate Zhang Tian's problems cultivating all those years ago, and he was the one that diagnosed the problem.
So, one can understand the look of utter astonishment on his face as he stares at Zhang Tian.
"Father, Third Elder." Zhang Tian greets, bowing to the two with all the grace and poise of a noble scion.
Zhang Hai offers a short nod in return before turning to Zhang Nien.
"Third Elder, how is it?"
Hearing the question, Zhang Nien seems to snap awake as he shakes his head clear. The look of flabbergast on his face is soon replaced with a warm smile as he looks on Zhang Tian.
"It's just as Xiao* Tian says, his Spiritual Roots have been completely repaired. Moreover, his soul has been strengthed to an unknown degree and his body purged of many years of accumulated impurities. It is as if I'm looking at a Zhang Tian that has cultivated for many years."
*Xiao mean little. An affectionate way of addressing someone.
Despite the good news, Zhang Hai still has a solemn look on his face.
"Are there any problems?"
Zhang Nien pauses to think, a frown appearing on his face as he falls into a deep thought. The father and son duo remain silent, giving Zhang Nien all the time he needs to recall the diagnostic information. Finally, after a few seconds of silence, he shakes his head.
"Nothing. The scans show no signs of any side-effects and whatever remains of the medicine, it left Xiao Tian's body with the impurities. This medicine… it not one I've ever heard of before."
Sighing, the elder turns to Zhang Tian. There is a hint of excitement in his eyes now, the thought of a new pill ingredient he has never heard of before igniting his passion.
"Xiao Tian, you say it looked like a fish?"
Zhang Tian nods.
"A goldfish, Third Elder. It was around the size of my hand and very plump. The scales shined in the light and the eyes looked like they still had life in them. When I went to cook it, the Senior told me to eat it raw instead. Only after that first bite did I discover that it wasn't a fish at all, it was a fruit with a sweet and juicy flavor."
This is, of course, a made up medicine that Zhang Tian has invented for his tale. No item like it exists in all of Ye Country but the description sounds close enough to some of those mystical spiritual fruits from ancient times that it is believable.
As for why Zhang Tian would even eat the strange fruit in the first place, neither of these two can even think to question it. For a powerful cultivator, dealing with a single Zhang Tian is as easy as turning their palm. There is no need for any trickery or lies, so why would Zhang Tian suspect anything about the fruit. At the same time, one must also show respect for their elders. Moreso when that elder is a powerful Senior offering strange food. If this unknown Senior was to appear before Zhang Hai or Zhang Nien and give them a strange fruit to eat, they would eat it right away.
It's just common sense.
"A fruit in the shape of a goldfish… why a goldfish? Prosperity and wealth?… and these sorts of effects, what would happen if I use it to mix that pill… or this one..."
As the third elder mumbles to himself in thought, Zhang Hai turns to Zhang Tian with a pleased look on his face.
"Tian'er, congratulations. Father is happy for you."
Knowing how much his son wished to cultivate all those years ago and being unable to cure his illness, Zhang Hai is immensely happy at his son's great fortune. There are, of course, some matters of worry but those are not things to burden his son with at this time. After all these years, the heavens have finally smiled upon his hardworking son.
"Thank you, Father."
"Tian'er, Father will spread this news for you. By the end of the day, everyone in Crimsonwood will celebrate for your good fortune."
Zhang Tian nods in acceptance, already understanding his father's train of thought. Something like this won't remain secret for long, not once he begins cultivating at least. Others are bound to notice eventually, so it is better for the Zhang clan to spread the news first and turn it into a matter of celebration. Moreover, something like this will do great things for the clan's reputation. Commoners that will only receive the basic information and rumors will talk about how the Zhang clan has recieved a blessing from the heavens. Meanwhile, those clans and groups that oppose the Zhang clan will have to tread carefully until they can learn more about this unknown Senior that may have ties to the Zhang clan.
Zhang Hai frowns, looking at a loss. Sighing, the older man claps a hand on Zhang Tian's shoulder. There is a glimmer of pride and happiness within his eyes as he looks upon his son.
"Ah, I suppose there is no need to look for a teacher. When it comes to these matters, Father can believe in Tian'er. Tomorrow, look for the Sixth and Eighth Elders. All those cultivation materials you haven't been able to use all these years, take them and use as you see fit. Come and find Father if you have any problems."
The sixth and eighth elders of the Zhang clan are, respectively, the overseers of the clan archive and resource allocation. Everyone in the clan has to go through them in order to receive cultivation manuals, innate techniques, and pills. As for the mention of a teacher; even being unable to cultivate all of these years, Zhang Tian is beyond the point where he needs such a person.
The path of cultivation is a long and solitary one. Every single cultivator has their own path to walk; their own comprehensions to make; their own Dao to decipher. Though it is possible to get some guidance while walking down this path, ultimately, one must walk alone if they wish to reach the peak of cultivation.
Cultivation might seem like a simple matter of using Qi to refine the body and soul, and truly it is like that at the beginning, but as one progresses further down the path, they will realize that there is more to it than that. To cultivate is to go against the heavens. How can one defy the heavenly laws with a paltry bit of energy and a strong body? The answer, they cannot.
To reach the peak of cultivation, one must strive to decipher the Dao of all things. They must comprehend the truth of the universe, and through this understanding, elevate themselves beyond the constraints of heaven.
The teachers Zhang Hai speaks of, are those experts that can be hired to pass on their own comprehensions regarding cultivation. Though it is impossible to guide another through their path, by listening to the comprehensions of other cultivators, one can gain insights into their own path. The help of a teacher can be invaluable to a budding cultivator.
Except, that stored within the archives of the Zhang clan, are the personal notes of countless generations of cultivators. With such a resource at his fingertips, how can the knowledge of a handful more people possibly help Zhang Tian?
Another job that is usually left for the teacher, is to help the student determine their Qi affinity. Be it for a certain element, or for a particular style of Weapon Intent, knowing the affinity of ones Qi can give immeasurable benefits while cultivating. By determining these things, the teacher can recommend suitable cultivation manuals and innate techniques for the student to focus on.
Again, it is a service that Zhang Tian does not require. Inside the Zhang clan treasury are all manner of Qi and Soul testing formation plates. Though it would be costly for a servant of the clan, getting his hands on one and checking his affinity is a simple matter for Zhang Tian.
The last matter that a teacher handles, is instructing the student in a number of different professions and hobbies. As stated before, the road of cultivation is unique for each person. Two people using the same cultivation art will always comprehend it in a different manner and at different speeds. This is a fact. As such, it can also be understood that not everyone can cultivate the same way. While sitting down to meditate works for many people, there are some that are unable to cultivate this way. Be it a matter of personality, their cultivation art or their Qi affinity, some people need to find unique ways to cultivate.
Some are better while active. Be it practicing a martial art, weapon style, or even a dance routine, these people find it easier to cultivate while their body is active. Others might need more calming activities. Playing an instrument, reading a book, or painting, these sorts of soothing activities can aid some people in achieving the proper mindset to drive their cultivation to its fullest. Methods will vary from person to person. The job of these teachers is to teach their students as many of these various activities as they can in order to pin down which one helps their cultivation speed the most. Because of this, most cultivators will have at least a basic level of mastery in a number of different professions and talents.
As the scion of a great clan, Zhang Tian has already gained instruction in all these activities and more. Though increasing his knowledge base has always been most important to him, Zhang Tian has achieved at least an initiate mastery level on a variety of different subjects.
If Zhang Tian was still young, Zhang Hai would consider hiring a teacher. Though there are many members in the Zhang clan, one needs experience when dealing with young and easily distracted minds. But Zhang Tian is no longer a child. He does not need to be treated carefully. He can be trusted to seek out aid should he need it and find information within the archives on his own. Ultimately, hiring a teacher for the current Zhang Tian would just be a waste of resources.
Zhang Tian nods in understanding of his father's words. As a son of the clan head, he is obviously allowed access to clan resources without the need for contribution tokens. It's just that in all these years, he has not been able to cash in on this privilege. Now that things have changed, Zhang Tian can go wild and choose as he pleases. Moreover, his age and maturity means that he won't face the limitations that a younger him would have faced.
"It's good that you understand. Now, go and find your mother before she continues to worry. Father will see you later."
"En."
With another bow to Zhang Hai and Zhang Nien, Zhang Tian makes his way down the hallway towards the distant stairs leading back into the manor. As Zhang Tian's form disappears from sight, all sign of emotion drains from Zhang Hai's face. Gone is the proud and loving father of Zhang Tian, replaced with the ruthless patriarch of the Zhang clan.
"Come out."
Although there is only the two of them there, Zhang Nien doesn't speak up in reply to the command. Instead, the shadowed wall just a few paces away from them seems to bulge before disgorging a third figure.
This figure is another middle-aged man. The man's skin is unnaturally pale as if he has not seen the light of day for many years. His hair is long and lanky, a wild mess that gives his bearded face a feral appearance. His eyes are hooded, allowing only a glint of glowing red pupils to be seen.
"Clan Head, Cousin." The man greets. His voice is low and raspy but the two men are able to easily hear his words.
"Huo'er, how have you been?" Zhang Nien replies, there is the trace of a smile on his face as he looks at this other man.
Zhang Huo shrugs in answer.
"Busy."
Zhang Hai frowns at that. It is true that Zhang Huo has been quite busy in recent years. This is not a good thing.
Publicly, it is known that the Zhang clan has eight elders. The elders of the Zhang clan are those experts that, after many decades of hard work, have stepped into the third realm of cultivation. The role of these elders is to help guide and protect the Zhang clan. While Zhang Hai has final say in all things, it is the elders that help run the day to day matters of the Zhang clan. Aside from the clan ancestor that is in seclusion, the eight elders are also the final defense of the Zhang clan.
What few know, though many clans and sects suspect, is that there are actually nine elders in the Zhang clan. Zhang Huo is the hidden ninth elder of the Zhang clan, not even Zhang Tian or his older brother know of his existence. Zhang Huo is the one that works in the shadows, gathering information and acting in matters where the Zhang clan cannot be involved. All the clans and sects have such a person, sometimes even groups of them, but there is one thing that sets Zhang Huo apart from the rest. By sacrificing his future cultivation and crippling himself in the early stage of the third realm, Zhang Huo is able to use an unparalleled stealth based cultivation art. This art is so effective that Zhang Huo can even spy on those hidden monsters in the other clans and sects. Within Grand Ye, none can equal Zhang Huo when it comes to stealth.
For the last few years, Zhang Huo has been gathering information on the movements of the Zhang clan's enemies. It is only recently that he has returned with some dire news.
"Ninth Elder, my apologies but it seems that I might have more work for you." Zhang Hai says with a sigh.
Zhang Huo doesn't say anything, though some emotion flares in his eyes. It should be known that the one thing this man enjoys is testing his skills. To seek out an unknown expert and spy on them, this will be quite enjoyable for him.
"Within the area of Crimsonwood City, other than our Zhang clan's ancestor, there is only the ancestor of the Five Peaks Harmony sect. You should know that old woman never leaves her mountain. Whoever this Senior is, you must discover it."
There is no doubt in any of their minds that the person Zhang Tian encountered is a powerful expert. The miraculous medicine aside; the tale spun by Zhang Tian was more than enough to convince them all. According to Zhang Tian, he woke in the middle of the night due to some sound and found an old man sitting beside the campfire. When Zhang Tian tried to wake Cho Mang, the older man wouldn't wake and continued to sleep peacefully. Suspecting the identity of the old man, Zhang Tian respectfully offered some tea and food. The old man accepted and after asking some questions about the Crimsonwood Forest to the south, he handed Zhang Tian the strange goldfish. The old man vanished mysteriously while Zhang Tian was eating the fruit.
As long and worrisome as the tale is, it's the part with Cho Mang that really stands out. As someone who has cultivated for so long, it's easy for Cho Mang to go many weeks without needing to sleep. Coupled with his training as a guard, it's impossible to believe that Cho Mang would sleep through something capable of waking Zhang Tian, let alone the young teen's attempts to wake him. For something like that to happen, it can only be the work of another party. For Cho Mang to succumb without even the slightest struggle, the other party must have some extraordinary means, or the raw power to suppress Cho Mang. Neither option can be ignored.
"Start with the Crimsonwood Forest, this Senior seemed to have some interest in it."
"Ah!"
Looking to have suddenly realized something, Zhang Nien makes a sound that draws the attention of the other two. Seeing their looks, Zhang Nien coughs before smiling sheepishly.
"Sorry, I just had a thought. How did the Senior know about Xiao Tian's illness? Assuming they are new in the area and didn't know about it beforehand, the only way they could have known is by diagnosing him on the spot. With no formation array. Which means…"
Zhang Hai feels a chill in his heart as he realizes what Zhang Nien is saying.
"Medical Saint."
The words hang in the air ominously as the three men contemplate things. Medical Saint, the title awarded to five-star Alchemists. With years of experience and a powerful spirit sense, a five-star alchemist can easily diagnose a patient with a single glance. The only five-star alchemist in Grand Ye is the ancestor of the Royal clan. For another to be walking the land…
Zhang Hai frowns.
"Ninth elder, be careful. If there is any chance this senior belongs to that power… don't do anything to antagonize them."
Receiving a nod from Zhang Huo, Zhang Hai turns away.
"I will go and inform the ancestor."
The other two bow as the clan head walks away. After a moment, Zhang Huo nods to Zhang Nien before vanishing into the shadows. Left alone, Zhang Nien can only sigh before following after Zhang Hai. As he walks, the elder can't help but ponder the properties of this mysterious medicine and what sorts of pills he could mix with it. A pity that Zhang Tian ate the whole thing.
'Tsk. That boy has always been too wasteful.'
XxOxX
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Leingod
Immaculate Blooming Lotus
Is this intentional, like the Ascendant Mortal is "above" the normal nine realms?
Lo and behold, we've inspired a chain of goldfish-themed products! Even the merest mention of a fake Medical Saint's throwaway spirit fruit can result in such incredible insight, aren't these guys great?
The Froggy Ninja
The Blade Will Never Die
No. Each realm is divided into low mid and high, and we only know about the first four realms since we live in the boonies.
Leingod
Immaculate Blooming Lotus
It talks about nine realms (which seems to be the Mortal<Earth<Whatever thing the shop uses), then says those realms are divided into three stages, then describes four stages.
Kolarthecool
Hiding from the light of day.
- Location
- Calgary, Canada.
Total typo lol, thx. It's nine realms with only 4 described already. There are 5 more that will come up later.
Edit. Wait, no. It's correct. There are three stages in each realm (early, intermediate and upper/peak)
The shop stuff is in ranks (mortal, earth, heaven, etc) rather than realms. Realms only refers to body refinement, core formation, etc.
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Leingod
Immaculate Blooming Lotus
"Nien," as far as I can tell, is not Chinese, though it does exist in Urban Dictionary as a nickname for people who think they know German, in reference to misspelling the word "nein." Speaking of which, the glossary calls him Zhang Nein in his blurb.
There are a lot of Chinese names that are sort of close to that, though. Namely Nie, Ning or Nan, though you might also use Nian, since it's an actual Chinese word, though I'm not sure if it's ever used as a name. "Nian" is the name of a mythical monster that was said to have attacked people every year until they discovered that it feared loud noises, fire, and the color red, and that's why people celebrate the Chinese New Year's festival is called Xinnian. Or rather, the monster is called that because Nian is the character for "year."
You know, I don't think I've ever seen the word "flabbergast" without an "-ed" on it. I'm not sure if its use in this context is entirely correct, but either way, it just kind of... sounds weird to the ear. "Astonishment" would work just fine without taking you out of the chapter for a second to go, "Wait, that's a word on its own?" Very minor nitpick.
Paltry.
I'm surprise they didn't collect any stool samples... to check for performance enhancing drugs of course! Whey else would did do something like this!
Am I the only one the miss Menu-san?
Am I the only one the miss Menu-san?
Kolarthecool
Hiding from the light of day.
- Location
- Calgary, Canada.
Another typo, thx. I really like the name but I guess I can change it if it doesnt really fit.
Yeah, I had to look it up to make sure it's an actual word. It is. I feel it fits more than astonishment or shock would but changing it might be best if it breaks immersion.
[ ] [Item] Menu-san's Bane. Stinky Tofu mixed with durian in Casu Marzu cheese. A super expensive item from the taoist costco food section that can blackmail menu-san to be nice to you. Unfortunately, he still wouldn't make any exceptions. Consume this item to gain +1% Luck.
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- Location
- New Mexico
Then keep the name!
It has a basis. His status as suddenly being able to cultivate is after all, extraordinary evidence
The Froggy Ninja
The Blade Will Never Die
@Kolarthecool, does Spirit Forging involve or possibly benefit from Inscriptions?
Kolarthecool
Hiding from the light of day.
- Location
- Calgary, Canada.
There can be some overlap but I want to largely keep them seperated. For example, if the materials and methods in making a spirit sword means it can't be inscribed, you can still add something to the hilt.
- Location
- Canadia
So, I think that if we had chosen something like Yang Body or Pill Cauldron or a fire attributed cultivation art becoming a alchemist would have been a solid choice but as of right now we don't have any sort of innate advantage in the field and we can buy pills for cheap from the system so it's not really worth it in my opinion.
Same for the Spirit Forger profession, as I'd assume that blacksmithery would also require us to have fire qi to melt stronger metals.
What really catches my eye is the Formation Master and Inscriptionist, but those would rely heavily on actually being able to find a source of knowledge in the subject or someone to teach us. Formations could be useful to us in cultivation since Universal body requires more Heaven and Earth Qi to cultivate than Soul Qi and we might be able to make a formation that draws the stuff towards us in order to speed up our cultivation.
Would it maybe be possible to buy manuals on the subjects we are interested in from the System?
Same for the Spirit Forger profession, as I'd assume that blacksmithery would also require us to have fire qi to melt stronger metals.
What really catches my eye is the Formation Master and Inscriptionist, but those would rely heavily on actually being able to find a source of knowledge in the subject or someone to teach us. Formations could be useful to us in cultivation since Universal body requires more Heaven and Earth Qi to cultivate than Soul Qi and we might be able to make a formation that draws the stuff towards us in order to speed up our cultivation.
Would it maybe be possible to buy manuals on the subjects we are interested in from the System?