https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-13-Second-Physique-Forging-and-Rhythm-/13535077/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-15-Ocular-Tremors-Flesh-Proliferation/13535082/
Chapter 14: Servants and "Price Tags"
Chapter 14: Servants and "Price Tags"
Luo En knew this was a critical moment. During his previous physique forging, this energy had nearly torn him apart.
But this time, he had mastered the technique.
Drawing a deep breath, he began channeling this violent energy using the unique rhythm of the Solar Corona Breathing Technique.
At first, the energy remained unruly, raging like wildfire through his meridians.
But as his breathing stabilized, the wild currents gradually calmed, beginning to flow along predetermined paths.
[Detected perfect guiding rhythm
Control level: High
Gained additional attribute boost: Physique + 0.2]
[Physique: 1.2 → 1.4]
Just as the energy was about to fully integrate into his meridians, Luo En suddenly sensed something strange.
In his perception, the flowing energy seemed to form a pattern—a miniature sun slowly rotating within his body.
This reminded him of the vision he'd seen during his first physique forging, but this time it was clearer, almost tangible, as if holding some profound meaning.
"Focus completely", Andie's voice suddenly turned serious. "You should be seeing something now."
Indeed, in Luo En's perception, the sun wasn't just a pattern—it was more like an embodiment of cosmic laws.
Its movements perfectly synchronized with the rhythm of the Solar Corona Breathing Technique.
[Unlocked special perception: Solar Disc Rhythm—
Slightly increased understanding of yang energy—
Slightly increased cultivation speed of the Solar Corona Breathing Technique]
"I see", Luo En finally understood.
The reason this breathing technique was called the Solar Corona Breathing Technique wasn't just because it manipulated solar-like energy—it was because it inherently mimicked the sun's natural cycles.
As the last wisps of energy fully merged into his meridians, Luo En slowly opened his eyes. He found Andie watching him with an odd expression.
"You—" Andie seemed about to speak, then hesitated. "Did you see the solar disc pattern?"
Luo En nodded. "Not only saw it, but felt its underlying laws."
"Unbelievable", Andie's expression turned complex.
"Even I didn't gain this realization until reaching the second cultivation stage. And you achieved it during your second physique forging session."
He didn't finish the sentence, but Luo En understood the implication. Comprehending the fundamental nature of a breathing technique was far more significant than merely completing physique forging.
……
On the way back to the Dormitory Area, Luo En kept pondering his experiences.
The glowing Star Grass—its vitality had been preserved purely by accident. While handling it, he'd unknowingly applied the Solar Corona Breathing Technique's rhythm.
Each breath he took guided the medicinal energy to flow in a specific cadence.
"Thinking about something?" Andie's voice interrupted his thoughts.
"I was wondering", Luo En paused, recalling the vial of Artificial Star Dew. "Could all supernatural forces have their own specific 'rhythm'?"
"What do you mean?"
"Just like the Star Grass maintains its vitality when following a specific rhythm, even Burning Oil requires synchronization with breathing technique rhythms to achieve full effect."
Luo En explained, "Then what about spiritual energy—"
Andie's eyes lit up. "You mean if we discover spiritual energy's 'rhythm,' we might accelerate meditation?"
"At least worth testing", Luo En nodded. "Madame Ellen mentioned teaching me basic potion-making today. Maybe I'll find some inspiration there."
As they spoke, they reached the Dormitory Area.
No sooner had they stepped onto the stairs than hurried footsteps echoed behind them.
A lavishly dressed but disheveled young woman rushed past them. Her heavy perfume barely masked the mingling scents of blood and sweat.
Luo En recognized her as Emily, one of their fellow candidate apprentices. She'd introduced herself as a duke's daughter.
Yet now, this noblewoman's collar hung open like a courtesan's, her makeup smeared and lips stained crimson.
Seeing Luo En and Andie, Emily flushed and hurriedly covered her face, disappearing around the corridor corner.
"Another one", Andie sneered. "This makes the third this month choosing that path."
"What path?"
"You really don't know?" Andie eyed Luo En's confusion.
"Every apprentice who passes the trials gains the right to take servants. For those with no hope left, pledging early to an apprentice isn't a bad... alternative."
His tone turned mocking. "Emily went to Marcus's tower. Rumor says he's obsessed with collecting 'beautiful servants'—already has five or six."
Luo En finally understood. He noticed a shadow cross Andie's face.
"Speaking of which, Marcus and his twin brother have been experimenting with some spiritual energy extraction curse techniques lately. They already drove a servant into madness."
His voice darkened. "Yet still they keep coming, like moths to flame. In the Black Mist Jungle, simply surviving is already many people's greatest wish."
Luo En fell silent. This was the magi's world—where power determined life and death, hierarchy etched into existence itself.
"Still", Andie softened slightly, "you've found a good path. Madame Ellen may be strict, but at least—"
He didn't finish, but Luo En understood. Beneath that terrifying exterior, she'd actually been remarkably kind these past two days.
"Speaking of which", Luo En brought up the Artificial Star Dew, changing the subject. "Why would Apprentice Holt give me such a precious potion?"
"Probably saw your potential", Andie shrugged. "In the Black Mist Jungle, no gesture of goodwill ever comes without strings. If you succeed in your ascension someday, you'll have to pay the price."
Every gift from fate already carried its hidden price tag.
Luo En nodded. He understood the true meaning behind this "gift."
(End of Chapter)
Chapter end
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