Chapter 3"The First Steps into Cultivation"

Li Tian sat in the depths of the valley, the cool mountain breeze brushing against his face as he steadied his breath. The valley was peaceful, untouched by the chaos of the outside world. He had chosen this place carefully—a secluded sanctuary where he could begin his cultivation journey undisturbed.

(System Notification: Host’s Disciple’s Past Life Identity—Pangu.)

Li Tian’s eyes widened at the system’s words. Pangu? The legendary being who was said to have created the world? His disciple was the reincarnation of such an entity? He took a deep breath, forcing himself to remain calm. If this was true, then his disciple’s potential was immeasurable. But why had the system not revealed this earlier?

(System Notification: Disciple’s past life memories remain sealed. Awakening them prematurely may result in instability. System has determined the best course of action is gradual cultivation growth before revealing the truth.)

Li Tian nodded. That made sense. If his disciple suddenly remembered his past life as Pangu, it could disrupt his current development. It was best to let things unfold naturally. However, this revelation only reinforced one thing—he had to ensure his disciple walked the correct path.

(System Notification: Suitable cultivation techniques have been found for the disciple, but they will not be granted immediately. Host must first solidify the disciple’s foundation.)

Li Tian smirked. The system was as cautious as ever. It would not simply hand out such valuable techniques. His disciple would need to earn them, and so would he.

(System Notification: Providing Host with the ‘Codex of the Ancient Path.’ This book contains records of forgotten cultivation techniques and insights into the lost arts. Additional rewards will be unlocked as the Host advances.)

Li Tian felt a surge of energy as the knowledge of the book settled into his mind. This was not just an ordinary manual—it contained profound wisdom, techniques that had been lost to time. With this, he could truly build a path forward.

(System Notification: Informing Host of Mortal World Cultivation Realms—)

(Qi Refinement: The beginning stage of cultivation, where one learns to sense and absorb spiritual energy.)
(Qi Condensation: The refinement of internal energy, forming a stronger foundation.)
(Foundation Establishment: A crucial stage where a cultivator solidifies their path.)
(Core Formation: The birth of a cultivator’s inner core, increasing their strength significantly.)
(Nascent Soul: The stage where one’s soul gains autonomy, extending lifespan and spiritual abilities.)
(Soul Formation: Strengthening the soul’s control over reality.)
(Spirit Severing: A stage where one surpasses mortal limitations.)
(Immortal Ascension: The final stage before entering the legendary Mahayana realm.)
(Mahayana: The peak of mortal cultivation, where one reaches the threshold of true immortality.)

Li Tian absorbed the information carefully. This knowledge was invaluable, and it set a clear path forward. But before he could think further, it was time for his own breakthrough.

Closing his eyes, Li Tian turned his focus inward. He could feel the faint strands of spiritual energy in the air, flowing like invisible rivers through the valley. He had spent days meditating, familiarizing himself with this power. Now, the time had come to take the first step.

He inhaled deeply, drawing the energy into his body. At first, it resisted, slipping away like mist. But Li Tian persisted, guiding it with his will. His body trembled as the energy slowly merged with his being, igniting a transformation within.

(System Notification: Breakthrough—Qi Refinement Realm, First Stage.)

A surge of warmth spread through his body. He had done it. He had officially stepped onto the path of cultivation. The feeling was exhilarating—his senses sharpened, his body felt lighter, stronger.

(System Notification: Rewarding Host with Qi Condensation Cultivation Technique—‘Primordial Vein Refinement Art.’)

A flood of information entered his mind, detailing a technique that would allow him to refine his qi with greater efficiency. He immediately understood its importance. Unlike ordinary cultivation techniques, this one focused on purifying qi, ensuring a stable foundation for future breakthroughs.

Li Tian wasted no time. He adjusted his posture and began practicing the technique. The air around him stirred, as if responding to his actions. Each breath pulled more spiritual energy into his body, circulating it through his meridians. The process was slow, but he could already feel the improvements.

Hours passed, yet Li Tian did not falter. He was immersed in the process, refining his qi over and over until he felt a natural stopping point. As he exhaled, his surroundings seemed clearer, more vibrant. His breakthrough was not just a change in strength—it was a transformation of his entire being.

(System Notification: Setting up Defensive Boundary Around the Valley. Intrusions from External Forces Will Be Restricted.)

A faint shimmer spread across the valley, an invisible barrier forming to protect his cultivation grounds. Li Tian felt a weight lift from his shoulders. Now, he could cultivate in peace, without fear of unwanted guests.

Rising to his feet, he turned his gaze toward the small figure waiting nearby. His disciple had been watching him silently, eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation.

“Master,” the boy said, his voice steady despite his young age. “What was that? That power… it was incredible.”

Li Tian studied his disciple for a moment. The boy had potential—unquestionable potential. And now, it was time to take the next step.

“You are ready,” Li Tian said, his voice firm. “I will now impart your first cultivation technique.”

The boy’s eyes lit up with excitement. Li Tian placed a hand on his disciple’s shoulder, transferring the knowledge directly into his mind.

(System Notification: Disciple Has Received Cultivation Technique—‘Mountain River Breathing Art.’)

The boy staggered slightly as the knowledge settled within him, but his expression quickly turned to one of determination. He sat down immediately, following the instructions of the technique without hesitation.

Li Tian watched in silence. The first step had been taken. His disciple’s journey had begun.

As the boy concentrated, a faint aura began to gather around him. The process was slow, but it was there—proof that he had taken his first step into cultivation.

(System Notification: Disciple Has Stepped Into Qi Refinement Realm, First Stage.)

Li Tian nodded in satisfaction. This was just the beginning. The path ahead was long, but they had taken their first steps together.

A new journey had begun.

Chapter end