《Rise of an Emperor [Dropped]》


 Prologue: World of Cultivation

    Prologue: World of Cultivation


    Every mortal dream of being a cultivator, every cultivator dream of being an immortal, and immortals never waste time dreaming, they only desire more. Immortals decide the fate of entire nations along with millions of lives with a flick of their fingers. Thus, they are worshiped by the puny mortals who lust for power and eternal lifespan.


    What are cultivators? They are mortals who dream for everlasting life as they master their body, absorb the essence of heaven, practice the art of cultivation and comprehend martial skills. Cultivators can be both the reason why a war start and the reason they end if they are powerful enough. The status of clans and sects are based on how strong they are and how many cultivators they possess.


    What are immortals? They can be considered gods who will never die to old age. But that doesn¡¯t mean that they never die, the world of cultivators has existed since the beginning of humanity, and there are countless individuals who were labeled as immortals. Just so that they would perish later as they go missing for millions of years and the world would forget about them as if they never existed in the first place. Even after living so long, there are individuals who are still greedy and are always so prideful of their cultivation that can ultimately lead to their downfall.


    Cultivators are ranked according to their cultivating stages and the stages are also categorized into different realms. After reaching the peak of their realm there will be a bottleneck and the difficulties of these bottleneck varies from people to people, some will never break through it in their entire life time while some will only take days.


    In order for cultivators to get stronger they would need heavenly resources, cultivation methods, martial skills and most important of all they need talent. Talent means everything to a cultivator, if you are talented enough every sect will want you. If you are talented, every mortal will worship you and if you are talented enough then you may even reach the apex of the world of cultivators and rule the world.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Talent in the world of cultivators are measured in many different ways but there are 2 main ways. Cultivation level will always be how cultivators are judged, if a 10-year-old child can enter the stage of an apprentice he can be considered average.


    The second way of measuring how talented a person is through their comprehension, a talented cultivator would be able to cultivate a complicated cultivation method or master a martial skill within days. While a Genius can further improve the skills, and can even make the skill reach the next rank. Son or Daughter of Heaven would be able to combine different cultivation skill and create a brand-new skill that is stronger than the original.


    Talented individuals are fated to shine in the world of cultivators. However, many geniuses have appeared but how many of them has actually reach the end? How many will become immortals? How many would live long enough to rule the world with an iron fist? The world of cultivators is shrouded by bloodshed and many geniuses will fall, flying too close to the sun and thinking they were invincible.


    Just because you are talented doesn¡¯t mean you are invincible, just because you are strong doesn¡¯t mean you won¡¯t be die. Some people are simply just frogs in the well and every last one of them don¡¯t last very long due to their arrogance.


    In the world of cultivation anything is possible, there have been cultivators that have created their own empires that will last millions of years or created new plane of existence and even creating a world where they themselves are gods.


    However, wherever you go in this world, you will always hear of the one rumor that known to all, one that is feared and worship by all and one that can determine the fate of nations. The rumor is the prophecy of the human race, that one day a hero would be born and not only would he be the human¡¯s only hope against the disaster that is hiding in the darkness of the world. Every single cultivator dream to be the hero of the prophecy and every sect and clan desire to have him to lead them and help them rise to become one of the strongest.


    In the continent of Azazel and the country of Fire, there lies a woman giving birth to a baby.


    ¡°Push, push harder I can almost see the baby.¡±


    Once the baby was born into the world, it lets out a loud cry.


    ¡°A boy! It¡¯s a boy!¡±

 Chapter 1: First Step

    A breeze travels through the continent, meeting many people and animals. It arrives at a bustling city and within the city there was a market, never lefts empty. This is Twin Fire and Ice City, which is in the centre of the country of Fire, a country in the northern land of the continent of Azazel, borders by the southern countries of Water and Wind. It¡¯s controls by a single force famously known as the Crimson clan. While the southern countries of Water and Wind were led by the Aqua and Ventus clans respectively.


    As the morning sun rose in the country of Fire, incredible heat could be felt in every corner. The searing heat even extended past the borders of the Fire country effecting the Wind Country as well. Buried within the Fire Country, there is also rumor of a lava spot, where a spirit of fire is said to dwell and is the source of the heat. It is unknown whether these rumors are true or not as no cultivator has been able to withstand the massive heat that emanates from the flowing lava.


    Elemental souls are masses of crystallised World Qi that has been blessed both by Heaven and Nature. Each soul is sentient and has a playful personality, which when combines with their natural defenses, made them incredibly difficult to find and capture. Of course, capturing a compatible soul could boost one¡¯s cultivation to new heights. However, the mass of crystallised World Qi would just overwhelm the cultivator¡¯s meridians and cause them to explode.


    Only when a cultivator has attained the Earth Stage and enter the Absorption Realm by mastering their body and awakening their Dantian, could they begin to absorb Qi of the World. Even when reaching the Earth stage very few are brave enough to try to absorb an Elemental Soul. Therefore, even though there is a chance that an Elemental Soul, a heavenly resource, may be under the country it has not lead the country to a disaster if only by matching every cultivator¡¯s greed with their fear of the legendary item.


    The Crimson Clan has controlled the country of Fire for so long that no one could remember how old the clan actually was. The current clan leader is to be said at the Earth stage, which is enough to rule the Country of Fire without any resistance from other clans that reside in the country. No other clan can come close to the Crimson Clan.


    An old man that appears to be around his 50s and a young boy can be seen in the courtyard of the Crimson Clan. The boy possesses the characteristic of the Crimson Clan, red hair and matching red eyes. If you look carefully the boy has an innocent and naive aura while the old man with a big scar covering his right eye emitting a solemn aura.


    The elder¡¯s black clothing is a wide and long sleeves robe that has a very plain pattern, around his chest area was a fold where item could be hidden and stored. There was also a wide sash that covers the belly area of the elder. The boy clothing however was white and instead of a long drape sleeve, he had tight sleeves around his arms and he didn¡¯t have any sash, it was just simple white fighting clothes rather than the robe that the elder was wearing.


    ¡°Ignis, before we start our lesson tell me what you¡¯ve learned so far.¡± The elder looks sternly at the young boy and said.


    ¡°There are 3 realms in cultivating; Human realm, Absorption realm and the mythical Self-Enlightenment realm. In the Human realm, a cultivator trains their bone and muscle and to reach the very peak of the realm they must be able master the body and know every single inch of the body. Some Human realm master that can completely change how they look and some train their body to resist many poisons because they fear of dying. As for the other 2 realms, I don¡¯t know.¡± The boy carefully said as he tries to recall as much as possible.


    ¡°Hmph, you will know of it when you need to, continue¡± The elder responds.


    ¡°We, the Crimson clan possess the bloodline of the chaos dragon and we have the highest affinity with fire elements and darkness. However, the chance of a person with the darkness affinity is quite rare because it¡¯s is one of the supreme elements so typically most of our clansman has a fire affinity.¡± The boy ponders with his arm crossed.


    ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°Eh? uhmmm¡± The boy confusedly replies.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°Boy, listen to me carefully I will only repeat this one more time.¡± The elder sternly said.


    The 6-year-old boy responds with a nod.


    ¡°In a battle between cultivators, there will be many unexpected factors so you must never underestimate your opponent, they may have backers that are far stronger than you might expect. Cultivators die because they are frogs in a well and offend crouching tigers and hidden dragons. Never be arrogant or it might be the cause of your death and even the Crimson clan won¡¯t be able to avenge you if your murderer is someone who even we can¡¯t afford to offend.¡± The elder said coldly.


    ¡°Now follow me, yesterday you turned 6 years old so now you can start cultivating. First up we must check for your element affinity and then we will decide on your cultivation method.¡± The elder then starts walking toward a heavily guarded area where there is another old man, that appears to be at the same age as the elder, sitting in front of it.


    It goes against the clan¡¯s law to go anywhere near this area therefore this is the first time Ignis has visits this place. He looks around nervously and then he spots a sleeping old man who has an aloof air around him.


    ¡°Hmph! Reigs, wake up!¡± The elder snorts and said coldly toward the man in front of the heavy doors. After a while he then slams the table which woke up the old man.


    ¡°Aurelius what did I say about disturbing me when I¡¯m meditating¡± Reigs yawn as he furiously shouts at the elder.


    ¡°Hah, if you do meditate then I wouldn¡¯t disturb you, now would I? Ignis, this is Reigs he is in charge of security of the library behind him. In the library, there are 5 levels but you will only have access to the first level. However, we are here because not only does Reigs protects the library, he is one of the few people who has an origin crystal that can test your element affinity.¡± Aurelius introduces the old man Reigs to Ignis who was curiously looking at Reigs.


    ¡°Haha, so it¡¯s Zephyrus¡¯s son huh. Hmm, boy you don¡¯t look like your father at all. Instead you have your mother features.¡± Reigs laughed.


    ¡°Enough talking! Reigs test this boy¡¯s affinity now.¡± Aurelius looks coldly at Reigs.


    ¡°Hmph, hurrying me it¡¯s not going to change anything, so take your time.¡± Reigs rebuts.


    ¡°Okay, boy place your hand on this crystal¡± Reigs then produced a crystal out of nowhere.


    Ignis follows the instructions and once his hand is place on to the crystal, a bright red light shines out of the crystal which was immediately follow by a dark aura that suddenly covers a small part of the crystal.


    Aurelius expression change very quickly showing different emotions ranging from shock, happiness, curiosity and lastly wariness. After taking a deep breath, he calms down and give gaze carefully at Ignis and then looks at Reigs.


    ¡°Reigs.¡± Aurelius solemnly said.


    ¡°Hmph, I know what to do¡± Reigs snorts and then the crystal in his hand disintegrates.


    The eyes of Ignis displays his confusion but he didn¡¯t say anything since he could sense the mood of both Reigs and Aurelius.


    ¡°Ignis, you have fire affinity like all the rest of us and unlike your father you didn¡¯t inherit his lightning affinity. Don¡¯t be sad, you should be delighted because majority of our cultivation method belongs to the fire element.¡± Aurelius informs Ignis of his affinity and consoles him.


    Ignis nods without understanding what Aurelius meant.


    ¡°Ignis follow me, remember you can only look at cultivation method on the first floor¡± Reigs waves his hand gesturing Ignis to follow him and then opens the heavy steel door behind him.


    Ignis follows behind without saying a word and enters the dimly lit corridor.


    The corridor had eerie atmosphere while there is no one except Ignis and Reigs. Ignis could feel people watching his every movement and action.


    Ignis move his head and look his surrounding before nervously asks, ¡°Reigs, is there someone else here in this room?¡±


    Reigs was shocked momentarily but he quickly recovered without letting Ignis notice his expression.


    ¡°Haha, boy who else could be there. Don¡¯t be a coward, you are the 2<sup>nd</sup> son of the mighty Zephyrus you must be brave because you will be a cultivator. Never show you fear or else you would lose not only your face but also the face of the Crimson clan.¡± Reigs heartedly laugh.


    They continue walking through the corridor until they finally reached the room filled with shelves of books.


    ¡°Ignis this is an important step, choose your cultivation carefully. Remember don¡¯t aim too high, when you have chosen your cultivation method go back to the way you came from.¡±


    Ignis bows as Reigs left the room.


    ¡°You guys can come out now¡±


    Suddenly two shadows appear out of nowhere and stands beside Reigs while looking at the direction of where Ignis is.


    ¡°That boy, he felt our presence. How is that even possible?¡± One of the shadow made a comment.


    ¡°He has a bright future ahead of him, if he was able to sense our presence.¡± The other shadow praises Ignis and send another gaze at the direction of Ignis.


    ¡°Hmph, don¡¯t give him that idea. We all know, no matter how talented a cultivator is there is always someone stronger and arrogance can ruin a genius cultivator.¡± Aurelius suddenly appears behind of the 2 shadows and Reigs. They all nodded, seemingly agreeing with Aurelius.

 Chapter 2: Inheriting a Legacy

    Chapter 2: Inheriting a Legacy


    Within a dimly lit room there stood a young boy, with a frown on his face, looking through various books in a shelf.


    ¡°Even though grandfather Aurelius and elder Reigs told me that I should be careful in choosing my first cultivation method. I don¡¯t know which one suit me the best.¡± Ignis sighs.


    ¡°Burning Sun, inferior middle rank cultivation method. Requires the cultivator absorb the sun rays to strengthen the body.


    Infernal Body, inferior middle rank. The cultivator has to enter an area with massive fire Qi and absorb the Qi from the outside and transfer it throughout the body.


    Rising Spirit, inferior upper rank. The first step a cultivator has to take is mastering the body however you must at the same time train your spirit so that when you reach peak of human realm you can enter the absorption realm.¡±


    ¡­


    After spending a long time reading all the books in the shelf, Ignis puts back the book he just read.


    ¡°So many cultivation methods, Infernal body is the most common choice in country of Fire because of the high amount of fire Qi making it a very suitable choice. It is a well-known fact that if you are able to cultivate Rising Spirit then you achieve the absorption realm. But so many people have tried, only few can truly cultivate Rising Spirit due to its difficulty.¡± Once again Ignis lets out a sigh as he was making a difficult decision that could affect his whole life.


    Ignis then decides to sit down to think about the different cultivation method and began to wonder which one was the most suitable for him.


    Suddenly an object caught Ignis¡¯s attention it was a small book that on the ground next to him.


    ¡°Where did this come from¡± Ignis wonders as he picks up the book and removes the dust that covers it.


    ¡°Solar Eclipse, no ranking? That¡¯s strange even the most uncommon cultivation method in the library has a ranking how come this one doesn¡¯t.¡± Ignis got even more confused as he continues to read the unranked cultivation method.


    ¡°While other cultivation method is split up into many stages this one only has 1 stage, Chaotic Origin. The cultivator absorbs the energy from the fire and darkness Qi. Using that Qi rather than just moving it through-out the body, the practitioner must concentrate all the Qi into the right hand but by doing so create immense pain for the practitioner. However, if a practitioner successfully complete Chaotic Origin a punch released by the cultivator would not only contain the power of 20 bulls but will also contain the burning heat of fire.¡± Ignis swallows his saliva as he read the description.


    ¡°Not just Fire Qi but also Darkness, one of the supreme elements.¡± Although Ignis seem like a clueless boy however he was quite clever. He also knew the fact that he didn¡¯t just possess fire affinity due to the reaction of the Origin crystal and the expression of Aurelius and Reigs.


    ¡°I am Ignis, a cultivator of the Crimson Clan, son of the famous Zephyrus. I must be strong so that, father will be proud of me. Even though this cultivation method will cause me pain, I must become strong. In the cultivation world, only the strong will thrive while weak cultivators will be devoured. This is what grandpa Aurelius told me.¡± Ignis looked resolute as he firmly holds the book of Solar Eclipse.


    Ignis then glance around the room to find the exit in the dimly light room. Even though he is a young boy who has not taken a step into cultivation yet, he had extraordinary senses which allowed him to sense people watching him before. With his senses, he found the exit easily in the dark and started to walk towards it.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    As Ignis left the room, a laughter can be heard and a shadow suddenly left the room in a different direction that Ignis went and went deeper into the library.


    ¡­


    Outside of library there stood Aurelius and Reigs waiting for Ignis to come out.


    ¡°Aurelius what do you think the boy will choose? I think he will choose the rising spirit, even though he doesn¡¯t look like his father their eyes are almost identical. His crimson eyes have a burning fire that very few people have.¡± Reigs said as he looks at the heavy door.


    ¡°Rising spirit is good but it is also very hard to cultivate, Sun Rise would be a better choice. Even though many people look down on the cultivation because they think it¡¯s an inferior version of Burning Sun. What they don¡¯t know is that it is the origin of Burning Sun and has secret truths that normal people simply can¡¯t understand.¡± Aurelius thinks carefully before answering.


    Then suddenly the heavy door starts to open and Ignis starts to walk out of the room. As he left the room, he looks back and sees the doors automatically close. Even though he was resolute in choosing Solar Eclipse he still has doubts in his choice. Aurelius and Reigs both being experience martial artist, noticed what he was thinking and both became curious of his choice.


    ¡°So, boy, what cultivation choose?¡± Reigs lets out laugh as he asks.


    Ignis, then lifts his right hand which was holding the book and then gives it to Aurelius to look at.


    When both Reigs and Aurelius took a glance at the book they were both shock and this time they couldn¡¯t hide their expression. Ignis too felt surprise when he notices their expression and he became even more curious about the origin of this cultivation method.


    ¡°Ig-Ignis, where did you find this book?¡± Aurelius faces Ignis and asks in a hurry. Even Reigs didn¡¯t have a smile on his face this time.


    ¡°After I finish reading all the cultivation method on the 1<sup>st</sup> floor that was suited for me. I decided to sit down and there it was next to me. I wonder why I didn¡¯t notice it before.¡± Ignis carefully explain without leaving any detail as he saw how nervous Aurelius was. Which was a first for Ignis because Aurelius is usually very cold and stern.


    Aurelius and Reigs then look at the book for one more time, then they look at each other. Aurelius then gave the book back to Ignis but he didn¡¯t say anything and looked like he was in a deep thought.


    ¡°Ignis, that cultivation method you have chosen is a very rare cultivation method that disappear ages ago. Currently in the clan, no one has cultivated this method, the last time someone successfully cultivated this method. It was thousands of years ago, his name was Zaphkiel, he was a genius he got to the Human realm at the age of 5, the absorption realm by the age of 10 and the self-enlightenment realm by the age of 20. Not only did he possess this cultivation method but he also not only has fire affinity but also the supreme element darkness element.¡± Aurelius carefully explains the history of the cultivation method to Ignis while doing so he had a solemn look and a contrasting excitement on his face.


    Ignis carefully listens to Aurelius and has a fascinated expression while Reigs quietly listen to Aurelius he examines Ignis thoroughly from head to toe.


    ¡°Ignis, I know you are a bright boy so you must also know that you not only possess the fire affinity but also the darkness affinity. Similar to Zaphkiel, which means that you do possess the requirement to practice this cultivation method.¡± Reigs also carefully said to Ignis to make the boy understand his circumstances.


    ¡°However, this cultivation method is extremely difficult. Zaphkiel was the only one who successfully cultivated this method but he wasn¡¯t the only one who possess the requirement to cultivate this method. There have been many people who has fire and darkness affinity but they failed and the result of failing in cultivating this cultivation method was death. There have been many talented clans man that failed in cultivating this method so when the cultivation method disappear many people were happy at first so that it would stop ambitious arrogant clans man from dying. However now it has reappeared in your hand.¡± Aurelius interrupted Reigs and began to tell Aurelius the danger of the cultivation method trying to scare Ignis from cultivating it.


    However, it seemed like even though Ignis was scared initially, his will to desire to cultivate this method is still firm. Which cause Aurelius to have a long sigh and then looks carefully at his grandson, thinking how mature he is for someone so young.


    ¡°Since you are so adamant about cultivating this cultivation method, I will not stop you but I want you to be careful¡± As Aurelius said these word, Reigs looks shock once again and then suddenly faces Aurelius and look surprise at Aurelius.


    ¡°Aurelius¡­¡± Aurelius interrupted Reigs before he could finish with his hand.


    ¡°Let him do it, I can¡¯t possibly stop him if he is fated to cultivate this method. Ignis follow me¡± Aurelius solemnly said as he slowly walks away from the heavy doors with Ignis following behind him.


    As Aurelius walks away the sun set, creating a sorrowful atmosphere. ¡°That old man must be the one who gave this cultivation method to Ignis¡± a thought appears in Aurelius mind.

 Chapter 3: Uncle Reynold

    Chapter 3: Uncle Reynold


    The sun has just set in the Twin Fire and Ice city and suddenly out of nowhere the temperature dramatically drops creating a freezing environment. The reason that the city is known as the Twin Fire and Ice is mainly due to the temperature being scorching hot in the day and the freezing cold in the night. Fire Qi that appears in the day would suddenly disappear, as if it was never there, when the sun set and an immense amount of Ice Qi appears as its replacement.


    Due to this sudden change, very few cultivators would cultivate Qi in the night instead they meditate to try to understand the truths, laws and secrets of the world. However, this doesn¡¯t apply to established clans who they possess Fire Crystals. These are rare stones that are created when there are highly concentrated amount of Fire Qi and these crystals naturally form within these environments.


    Fire Crystals are part of the Elemental Crystals and are categorised under the basic crystals due to the fire element being a foundation element. Nevertheless, even the basic crystals aren¡¯t something that ordinary family can get their hands on. These crystals contain Qi in one of the purest form however they will still contain impurities. These crystals can save a cultivator time if they cultivate the body or Qi but isn¡¯t very useful for Spirit cultivators who cultivate their Mental Energy.


    Due to the two-different cultivating environment that the country of fire has while there are a lot of fire affinity cultivators in the area but there are also ice affinity cultivators that resides in the country. However, Ice is a supreme element and due to its ranking and rarity, the numbers of Ice cultivators are very low but they are all powerhouses and people who can¡¯t be offended. Any powerhouses when offended will cause the red moon to appear and it will rain blood in the country.


    ¡­


    With the freezing temperature, majority of the Crimson clansman are in the house for a few exceptions.


    ¡°Grandfather, why are we outside after the sun has set. I thought, you told me not to stay outside when the Ice Qi arrives.¡± Ignis¡¯s body shivers and his hand cross his body trying to keep himself warm as he asks Aurelius.


    Aurelius glances at Ignis, before the hint of sadness within him slowly disappears and is replaced with warmth. He lets out a small smile, however Ignis was too busy keeping himself warm that he didn¡¯t notice.


    ¡°Child, we are going to meet someone who can help you in your cultivation. The reason why we are out here so late being because that lunatic only comes out this late.¡± Aurelius responds to Ignis in a caring tone and continues walking.


    ¡°Lunatic? Oh, are we going to meet uncle Reynold?¡± Upon the realisation on the purpose of them being out so late. Ignis facial expression changes from exhaustion to fascination.


    ¡°I heard that uncle Reynold is quite an eccentric person and that he sleeps all day. Are the rumours true?¡± Ignis asks Aurelius with a curious expression.


    ¡°Hmm, the rumours are true however the reason he sleeps all day isn¡¯t because he is lazy but it¡¯s because of an entirely different reason.¡± Aurelius responds.


    Ignis then continues to ask Aurelius question about Reynold and Aurelius calmly responds to the questions without giving much details.


    After walking a long time, Aurelius then stopped in front of a small house in the outskirt of the Crimson clan.


    The house looks completely worn out, it is simply due to the fact that no one has even attempt to clean it for a decade. It was a simple house with normal decorations and furniture that all houses have. Except for the fact that dust has covers everything outside and inside the house.


    Aurelius shakes his head, ¡°That boy, he is so deeply concentrated on his cultivation that he always ignores these things. Sigh, the only thing in his mind is cultivation.¡± Aurelius¡¯s eyes became slightly clouded and there was a hint of sadness that wasn¡¯t there before.


    ¡°Ignis, let¡¯s go in and remember if you we see him meditation don¡¯t disturb him.¡± Aurelius looks at Ignis and then walks into the house.


    Ignis nods and follows Aurelius into the worn-out house. As Ignis move into the house he tries to touch as less thing as possible so that the dust wouldn¡¯t cover him up and make him a dust man.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Once inside the house, Ignis sees a man sitting down in the centre of the room with his hand placed on his crossed legs. After just entering the room, Ignis discovers that the room temperature was even lower than the outside and this was due to the concentrated Ice Qi in the room.


    The man wasn¡¯t wearing robe like Aurelius, he was wearing a clothing similar to Ignis. Simple fighting clothes that are fitting to his body however it is blue rather than white and combining with his features makes him look cold and imposing.


    ¡°Uncle Reynold¡­ is an Ice cultivator? Aren¡¯t Ice cultivator extremely rare, how is it possible for an Ice cultivator to appear in our clan who are known for our Fire cultivation?¡± Ignis ask multiple questions in a small voice, afraid that he might disturbs Reynold¡¯s cultivation.


    Aurelius let out a small laugh and then said ¡°Yes, an ice cultivator is extremely rare and even harder to find in out Clan¡¯s lineage however Reynold¡¯s mother, my sister-in law was also an Ice cultivator and he inherited it from her. It¡¯s not impossible for other affinity to appear in our clan, you father is a prime example.¡±


    Aurelius then stops talking and looks at Reynold waiting for him to finish his cultivation.


    As if Reynold knew Aurelius¡¯ intention, he opens his eyes and once he sees who is in-front of him. He was pleasantly surprise and stands up, ¡°Uncle Aurelius. What are you here for?¡± Reynold seems confused at why his uncle is currently at his house so late in the night.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to introduce you to your nephew¡± Aurelius then took a step to the side and reveals Ignis who was hiding behind him.


    Ignis bows to Reynold and cups his hand to show a sign of respect for his uncle.


    ¡°Ne-Nephew? Cousin Zephyrus has a son? How come no one mentioned this to me.¡± Reynold became even more confuse.


    ¡°Hmph, you? You are always in closed cultivation and refuse to come out how could anyone tell you?¡± Aurelius in a scolding tone.


    ¡°Hehe, so it is my fault. I have a nephew now huh?¡± Reynold looked at Ignis with curiosity and warmth. Reynold didn¡¯t have a younger brother nor did he take in a disciple so when he saw Ignis it was a first for him. For a decade, Reynold has only been cultivating therefore meeting Ignis became a new experience and marks a brand-new chapter in Reynold¡¯s life.


    Ignis seems to be at a lost because his uncle appears nothing like his expectation and thoughts. This is highly due to typical Ice cultivator to be quiet cold to other people.


    ¡°Hmm, placing that matter beside. Uncle, you have introduced my nephew to me but I doubt that¡¯s the only reason why you are here.¡± Reynold once again questions why Aurelius is here.


    ¡°Of course, that isn¡¯t the only reason why I¡¯m here. Ignis here, he possesses¡­¡± Aurelius was saying.


    As soon as Aurelius said that the Reynold¡¯s eyebrows jumps up, ¡°He possesses the lightning affinity same as his father?¡± Reynold interrupted Aurelius.


    ¡°No! Let me finish, you don¡¯t have any manners at all do you? Is this what you became after living alone for a decade?¡± Aurelius berated Reynold¡¯s action.


    Reynold wryly laughs as he rustles his hair in embarrassment with his face that now has a hint of red.


    ¡°He possesses the fire affinity and the darkness affinity.¡± Aurelius finally finished what he was saying before.


    Reynold expression suddenly changed from embarrassed into shock and then into happiness. Reynold then let out a laughed. ¡°Haha, a cultivator of fire and darkness affinity has once again appeared into our clan. This is great news, what cultivation method did he chose? Shadow Embrace? Chaotic Ruler? Darkness Supreme?¡±


    As Reynold once began to starts talking, Aurelius became quiet and waits until Reynolds calms down. ¡°Ignis has manage to get the Solar eclipse and has decides to choose it as his cultivation method.¡± Aurelius calmly responds.


    Reynold expression suddenly changes and was extremely shock by this new information. ¡°No-No! How could this happen? You can¡¯t possible let him cultivate that method.¡± Reynold stands up and eyes became serious in a matter of seconds.


    Aurelius shook his head in response to Reynold questions. ¡°It has never been my decision when it¡¯s comes to Ignis¡¯s cultivation. For him to even find this book must be by the work of the Supreme Elder.¡±


    Reynold frowns upon hearing Aurelius¡¯ words, clearly dissatisfied. ¡°Sigh, so what is it that I can do to help Ignis? Since you obviously came here for my help¡± Aurelius sigh.


    ¡°I need you to bring Ignis to the city of Earnest when Ignis reach the age of 9 however that isn¡¯t the main reason for why I¡¯m here today. When time come, I need you to bring Ignis to the Ivern forest to help him get use to the environment of the forest and hunt demonic beast.¡± Aurelius explains.


    ¡°When would that be?¡± Reynold asks.


    ¡°When Ignis come to you, you will know what to do then.¡± Aurelius looks at Ignis and then answers.


    ¡°Is that it? But I must ask, why me?¡± Reynold was baffle as he couldn¡¯t understand Aurelius¡¯s decision.


    ¡°Besides you who else can I ask? Everyone except you are busy and all you do in the day is sleep so you are the best choice to train Ignis¡± Aurelius sternly said.


    ¡°Okay that¡¯s enough talk, Ignis we should leave now¡± Aurelius said and gestures Ignis to follow him.


    Ignis nod and cups his hand once again then he bowed towards Reynold and follows Aurelius.


    ¡°Nephew huh, Iris I have a nephew now. Iris, where did you go.¡± Reynold solemnly looks at the departure of Ignis and Aurelius.


    ¡­


    Reynold and Ignis are now walking towards Ignis¡¯s residence.


    ¡°Boy, besides the reason I told Reynold, there are other factors that made him a suitable to be your teacher. He is the one who knows the forest the most in our clan even better than our hunters, so he will be able to teach you a lot of things¡± Aurelius reveals to Ignis, his reason for choosing Reynold.


    However, a thought also appears in Aurelius¡¯s mind. ¡°I hope, not only would Reynold provide you with training but you would help him solves his problems. Sigh, Reynold has not been able to advance and has been stuck at the Earth Realm all these time. Iris, I shouldn¡¯t have you agree for you stay with him that time.

 Chapter 4: Destined Companion

    Chapter 4: Destined Companion


    The difference between a normal animal and a Demonic Beast is that, Demonic Beast have absorbed World Qi and change them to Demonic Qi in doing so have formed a Dantian in their body. Demonic Beast body are a lot stronger and Advance Rank Demonic beast would have developed a special power called Demonic Skill.


    In the wild, the strong will eat the weak so there are constant fights in the wild and many beast will die. However, this would mean that stronger beast will survive and their natural instinct are honed through these life and death battles. These beasts experience danger the moment they are born so they heavily rely on their instinct and this has been sharpened for generations and generations making many a Demonic Beast have keen senses and an ability to sense danger.


    These beasts have been bathing in blood since the first day they were born and when compared to humans, these creatures can be considered the superior species. If compared, an Intermediate Rank Demonic beast would be stronger than a Earth stage Human cultivator.


    The ranks of the demonic beast are of the following; Basic, Intermediate, Advance, Hyper, Superior, Extreme, King, Emperor, Ancestor. However, for normal people, they have yet to see an Advance beast let alone an Ancestor beast.


    Similar to human cultivators, demonic beast also has bottle necks. It could be said that Ancestor is another bottle neck but no demonic beast known to man has been able to break through that stage. These bottle necks are even more difficult comparing to human¡¯s cultivation but while its more challenging once broken through grants these beast unbelievable powers.


    While Demonic Beast are considered as animals of the forest and nature. There are Spirit beast who are companions of humans. There are wild Spirit Beast and raised spirit beast, wild spirit beasts are demonic beast who have been captured, tamed or mastered by cultivators. The demonic beast is then to go through a spirit ceremony to change them from Demonic Qi beast to Spirit Qi beast. Raised spirit beasts are beast that have been hatched from spirit eggs and have been trained from birth.


    Wild Spirit beast are known to be more powerful and ferocious but raised spirit beast tend to have more loyalty to their masters. Similar to Human cultivators, Spirit and Demonic beast have their affinity to certain elements, these elements correspond to their race. Storm Wolfs have wind affinity while the Chaos dragons have fire and darkness affinity.


    Sometimes there may be mutation and these may lead to even more races. An example of this are the infamous blood dragon, they originated from the Fire Drakes however there was a mutation and a new dragon was born. The dragon didn¡¯t have affinity to fire but actually has affinity blood, a first of its kind. This race gets stronger as the more blood it baths in. Every year there are more beast race that are discovered and some of these are insignificant mutations while others can change the situation of a whole nation.


    ¡­


    In the courtyard of the Crimson clan, there is an old man cultivating the Fire Qi around him. The speed of the absorption was not fast or slow, it was a steady pace. Once the Qi enter the body, it flows through the spiritual vein, some of the qi will be absorbed into the muscle and the bones. For people who have reached the Absorption realm, the energy will be directed to the Dantian of the cultivator instead.


    The biggest difference between a Master stage and an Earth stage cultivator is the Dantian. This difference may seem little but one Earth stage cultivator can face against hundreds of Master stage cultivators. Having a Dantian can mean worlds of difference, this is because energy stored in a Dantian can be used to perform a martial skill. The Dantian allows cultivator to use Qi in their execution of martial skills and this can bring out destructive result.


    The Qi stored in the Dantian also can be used to improve the healing rate of a cultivator. Not only can it increase the healing rate but depending on the cultivator the Qi may have its own characteristics. Cultivators with fire affinity would have explosive power and incredible heat while cultivators with earth affinity would have unwavering defense.


    The Dantian has unlimited usage depending on the cultivators but it also the difference between a mortal with a strong body and a real cultivator. Human realm cultivators are still considered as mortals and once someone step into the Absorption realm would they be truly recognised as a cultivator.


    The old man that was cultivating in the courtyard, has a white beard matching with his white hair. He wore a set dragon pattern robe and he had a calm atmosphere around him. As he was cultivating the door to his courtyard slowly opened and revealed a young boy wearing crimson coloured clothing matching with his hair and eyes.


    The boy saw the old man and waited for the old man to say something first.


    ¡°Ignis, you have come¡± the old man suddenly said as he stopped cultivating and stood up.


    Before Ignis even said anything, the old man said ¡°I know. You are wondering why I asked you to come here.¡± The old man then began walking towards the entrance of his courtyard. ¡°Follow me¡± he said to Ignis. The old man turned out to be Aurelius.


    Ignis then ran up to Aurelius and walked by his side. This was a privilege that only a grandson of Aurelius has, if it was any other cultivator they must walked behind him to show their respect. Unless it was someone stronger than Aurelius then it would be Aurelius that would be walking behind to show his respect. However, in the Twin Fire and Ice City there are very little amount of people that has the same cultivation level as Aurelius, let along higher.


    Aurelius and Ignis then exited the Crimson clan and was currently on a busy street with many people walking and some people have shops where they were trading and selling items. ¡°Today I¡¯ve decided to show you around our county. This is so that you know where to go for specific reasons and know which place you should avoid.


    The first place we are going to visit is the Agora Market. In this market, all the locals or visiting merchants and travellers will set up stalls so that they can trade items.


    When doing business in the Agora market you have to be careful and be observant. Sometimes there are rare heaven defying treasure that will appear but sometimes there will be also be fake items.¡± Aurelius explained to Ignis, he also told Ignis of small but significant places as they go pass them.


    ¡°Heaven-defying treasures?¡± Ignis repeated what Aurelius said and gulped his saliva as he said the words.


    Aurelius laughed at his grandson response. ¡°Yes, heaven-defying treasures however the chances are very low and you must be able to recognise the different items that will appear or else you would only be scam. While having strength is important, intelligence is not any less important. Do you understand?¡±A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Ignis nodded at his grandfather question. What Aurelius said might be common sense but for a naive child, like Ignis who only dreamt of cultivation it was like a new door open in his mind. It was as if a new road was starting to be build alongside Ignis¡¯ road to cultivation.


    ¡­


    Agora Market is one of the most popular place in the county of fire due to gathering of rare resources and treasures. It is located in the north part of the county and the only reason it¡¯s not located at the centre is because that is where the Crimson Clan is located.


    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived. Boy, look closely this is the Agora market, let¡¯s go in now.¡± Aurelius didn¡¯t wait at all and immediately went in.


    Ignis did not mind at all and was actually happy that his grandfather didn¡¯t say much. He then followed Aurelius in, as he went into the market he was stunned on how many stalls there were and how noisy it was.


    Everyone in the stalls were shouting out their merchandise trying attract cultivators. There were stalls that were packed with people and stalls with no people at all.


    ¡°Ignis, since today is your first day here. If you find an item, you like I would buy it for you.¡± Even though Aurelius said that he was willing to buy multiple things for his grandson.


    Ignis eyes light up as he heard Aurelius¡¯ word and he rushed in and to look for a treasure. However, before he got any far he spotted few eggs on a stall. Behind the stall there was a person that wore a mask and cloak hiding his face and body.


    Ignis rushed to the stall with Aurelius following behind him. Aurelius was too intrigued about the eggs on the stalls.


    As they arrived the stall, Ignis was curious about the eggs while Aurelius was actually shocked as his eyebrows jumped up and his eyes was wide open.


    ¡°These eggs. Are they Spirit Eggs?¡±


    The mysterious man behind the eggs let out a laughed and said ¡°Yes, they are spirit eggs.¡±


    Aurelius then frowned and then looked at Ignis¡¯s happy expression. He sighed and then said ¡°Okay, Ignis remember what I¡¯ve said before I can only buy you one thing in this market choose carefully what you want.¡± Deep down he thought, ¡°Usually Spirit Eggs are sold by the Celestial Hall, so buying a spirit egg that isn¡¯t from Celestial Hall is quite risky. However, I can¡¯t see this cultivator¡¯s cultivation realm and the fact no one else notice this stall meant that he has put down a formation. Even I didn¡¯t notice this place until Ignis saw it.¡±


    On the stall, there contained 9 eggs, all of them were unique and had different patterns and aura. However, when Ignis saw the eggs there was only one that was in his vision the whole time. It was a red egg however it had a holy aura surrounding it.


    Once the man noticed Ignis expression and how he only had sight on the red egg and seemed like he was drawn into it. The man let out a laugh. ¡°Today was the last day I was going to stay in this town and this is your first time here in this market. I¡¯m someone who believe in destiny so meeting you here could be part of destiny. I¡¯ve decided to give you this egg¡±


    Ignis was shocked and then became very happy and excited. While Aurelius was just thoroughly shocked. This is because while spirit eggs aren¡¯t rare they are still extremely expensive. This is especially true for these spirit eggs that Aurelius, himself, can¡¯t even recognise. The action of the man, made Aurelius extremely suspicious of him. However, he took no action because this was beneficial for Ignis.


    Ignis then looked at Aurelius for his approval and Aurelius nodded showing his consent.


    Seeing how Ignis was still being obedient to his grandfather while being excited made the man laughed again.


    The man then gave the egg to Ignis to hold. Upon the first contact with the egg made Ignis felt a certain connection with the egg. It was a first time for Ignis to feel this way.


    Ignis was very thrilled holding the egg in his hand and then the egg started shaking and cracks appeared on the egg. Once again Ignis was baffled and didn¡¯t really understand what was happening while Aurelius too was shock but this was because he knew what was happening.


    The eggs shell fell down revealing a furry creature in the eggs. The creature had small white wings on its back and exhibited a holy aura. Its eyes were closed, the creature was a lion cub with white wings and the body of the creature was of a red colour.


    ¡°It hatched! Grandfather it hatched!¡± Ignis said to Aurelius


    ¡°Yes, it indeed hatched. However, the question is what creature is it.¡± Aurelius was curious of the race of the spirit beast.


    He then looked away from the beast and then look up to ask the man however he was surprise to find that the man disappeared with the other eggs.


    ¡°Huh, where did the old man go?¡± Ignis was confused at the man¡¯s disappearance and was looking around to find him.


    Aurelius decided not to look for the man because he knew that since he didn¡¯t even know when the man left then it meant that the man cultivation was a lot higher than his own cultivation. ¡°Ignis, he already left you don¡¯t need to look for him anymore.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Ignis was disappointed that he couldn¡¯t say thank you to the mysterious man but he was happy once again when he saw the sleeping creature in his hand.


    ¡°Ignis, what do you want to do now?¡± Aurelius asked Ignis


    Ignis then went quiet and thought carefully before saying ¡°Grandfather, I know that it took a while to get here but is it possible to go home now? I want to bring Solace home.¡±


    Aurelius let out a smile ¡°Haha, of course it¡¯s possible the idea of bringing you here was so that you can experience it. Hmm, Solace huh? So, that¡¯s the name you have decided to give to your new companion. It¡¯s a good name fitting for such a spirit beast but Ignis, you have to remember this carefully. You are his master and it is you how much take care of raising it, not only is Solace your pet but also your companion you must treat him well.¡±


    Ignis nodded at Aurelius¡¯ teaching.


    Aurelius and Ignis then walked out of the Agora market and headed home as the sun was setting creating a serene atmosphere.


    ¡­


    Aurelius and Ignis arrived back at the Aurelius¡¯ courtyard when the sun has already set. The temperature was once again freezing cold due to the emergent of Ice Qi.


    Ignis was having deep thoughts as his face had a face was expressionless which was unusual for a cheerful boy like Ignis.


    ¡°Grandfather may I ask you a question?¡± Ignis asked Aurelius


    ¡°Go ahead, ask this old man any question.¡± Aurelius responded to Ignis. As he was an observant person he knew that his grandson was thinking of something serious.


    ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯m grateful for Solace. Yesterday, you have introduced me to uncle Reynold and today you showed me around the county of fire and gave me my first spirit beast. At the same time, why you have not given me time to cultivate?¡± Ignis questioned his Aurelius


    Aurelius expression changed and frowned. Aurelius then sighed and looked Ignis then looked away. ¡°I said I won¡¯t stop you in cultivating that method however you are still my grandson and I wanted to delay you cultivating because as I¡¯ve said before it is dangerous. In the end, I can¡¯t stop you, I can only offer help and watch you grow.¡± Aurelius solemnly said.


    ¡°Tomorrow you don¡¯t have to visit this old man anymore, you can start cultivating.¡± Aurelius managed to squeeze out these words but it also hurt him since he was sending one of his grandson on a treacherous path that would be stained with blood and be full of violence.


    ¡°Thank you, grandfather. I won¡¯t disappoint you.¡± Ignis then bowed toward Aurelius and while carrying his spirit beast he left the courtyard.


    With Ignis gone, there was only Aurelius left in the courtyard. Suddenly someone entered Aurelius¡¯ courtyard. ¡°Dear, I¡¯m back from my small trip.¡±


    ¡°Oh, welcome back. How was the trip?¡± Aurelius replied without even turning his face toward the person.


    ¡°Hmph, you won¡¯t even look at your wife who just came back.¡± Replied the mysterious person. It turned out to be Alyssa, Aurelius wife.


    ¡°Ignis, he will start to cultivate tomorrow¡± Aurelius then said.


    Alyssa then quieted down and then said ¡°The moment he was born he was destined to do something great. On that day, there was a solar eclipse, the moon covered the sun, the darkness encompassed the source of light. Those old men in the shadow probably started planning since then.¡±


    Aurelius then sighed and said the words ¡°I know¡±. He paused for a while the continue ¡°How was the result of your journey to county of Earth?¡±


    Once Alyssa hear Aurelius question a smiled appear on her face and she then said ¡°I found this during my journey.¡±


    Suddenly an orb appeared in Alyssa¡¯s hand.


    Aurelius sense a source of energy suddenly appearing and turned around to look what Alyssa was holding.


    ¡°You found it?¡± Aurelius was surprised as he saw the item in Alyssa¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Yes, I was fortunate to find it in the county of Earth.¡±


    Aurelius then let out a hearty laugh. ¡°It seems like the plan will have to start soon.¡±


    Aurelius and Alyssa then went into their house.

 Chapter 5: Understanding Oneself

    Chapter 5: Understanding Oneself


    Alone in a house was a boy, his parents weren¡¯t home. He sat in the center of the room with a thin rusty book beside him and a beast on his lap.


    The boy is Ignis who has a frowning expression on his face. Ignis sat alone in the tranquil house with Solace on his lap, who happened to be sleeping comfortably. Even though Ignis is only at the age of 6, he is still part of the Crimson clan, a force that is strong enough to be in control of the Twin Fire and Ice city.


    From birth he has been raised to be a calm and mature by his clan even though sometime he act his age. While he is alone in his room, he wasn¡¯t sad because his parents aren¡¯t around, he is depressed because he felt that he has wronged his grandfather.


    Even though he is dejected, he doesn¡¯t regret in doing what he did because like all cultivators, he desires to become strong. Because in this world being strong means that they control world as they like and have anything they desire and not following the orders of others.


    In order to be strong, he would need to take his first step into cultivation. Which for him is by cultivating the mysterious yet dangerous cultivation method which only one of his ancestor has succeeded. It could be said that while Aurelius is saddened by Ignis¡¯s choice, it could be even be said that it was his teaching that let Ignis to have enough courage to choose and cultivate such a method.


    He calmed his heart and steadied his breathing, then he placed the sleeping Solace from his lap to his side and began to read the ancient cultivation method. After spending an hour or so on reading, he then put the book down.


    ¡°Just like the description said before, I need to absorb the Fire and Darkness Qi form the air and into my right hand. However first up I must be able to sense the Qi.¡± Ignis sighed.


    The Qi mentioned is simply the World Qi that exist everywhere in the world, Cultivator can only absorb the Qi into their Dantian once they enter the Absorption Realm. Before that, they can only draw in the Qi in the air into their body to train and strengthen the body.


    Every mortal dream to be a cultivator who can defy the heaven however there are requirements that must be met first before they can even take a step into the cultivation world. One of this requirement is to be able to sense the World Qi and its mystery. Despite Ignis having a Fire and Darkness affinity this doesn¡¯t mean that he can sense the Qi. Instead, this just mean that he is more sensitive to Darkness and Fire Qi.


    As every experienced cultivator know, this small requirement is a test for young cultivators to know of their talents. An average cultivator would take month before they can start to sense the Qi and a talented cultivator would take weeks while born geniuses would take a few days.


    Once his heart has settled, Ignis started to concentrate and use his body to try to feel the energy around him. Upon doing so, he started to feel fierce heat surrounding him, he also felt a hint of a calm, an intimidating and a rigorous energy.


    The fierce energy that he first felt was the fire Qi that was in abundance due to the environment, following that fierce energy was the tranquil energy was the water Qi. The intimidating energy was the earth Qi and the rigorous energy was the wind Qi. These 4 Qi are the most basic of the World Qi and are in the largest amount. They are also known as the foundation Qi.


    Despite of only having Fire and Darkness Qi, Ignis could sense the other foundation Qi because they made up the planet and was everywhere which meant that it is all around, making them a lot easier to be sensed.


    His inability to sense the Darkness Qi is mainly due to it being non-existent in this current time, the Darkness Qi would only emerge once the sun has set and the moon rise. Even then, Darkness is one of the Supreme elements making it extremely hard and strenuous to the body and soul to cultivate.


    To be able to sense the Qi in a short period proved that he is a talented and worthy of inheriting the cultivation method that once belong to the strongest cultivator of his clan. Even geniuses would take days to be able to sense the world Qi but for Ignis, he only took a few moments.


    This could be contributed to his rare elemental affinity and that he inherited the genes of his powerful parents however what can¡¯t be denied is his talent that he was born with. This talent that he was blessed with could make all the different and has placed Ignis on a higher starting ground than other cultivators.


    His talent would bring him fortune but will also make him experience more tragedies and set back due to his cultivation path would be full of boulders and enemies that envy and fear his talent.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    In the cruel world of cultivator, if a cultivator can¡¯t convince or persuade a talented cultivator to join them. Then, they would destroy the bud before it blooms so that they won¡¯t be a threat to them.


    Even of one of the strongest powerhouse has carried out such actions, the Demonic Lord of the Abyss, Everlyn. It is embedded in his nature to remove any small obstacle that may poses a threat to him in the future, no matter how small it might be. Due to this he was able to grow and his vicious nature lead him to the Dao of Annihilation and made him to walk on the road of the Demons.


    Ignis let out a smile after being able to sense the Qi and let out a breath of relief.


    ¡°Phew, so this what it feels like to sense Qi¡± Ignis then closed his eyes once again.


    Due to his ignorance of the real world, Ignis had no idea that he had just accomplish a miracle. Once he closed his eyes, he started to try to sense the Qi however this time he began to familiarised himself with the Fire Qi and disregarded the other elements. After a few hours, he was able to fully familiarised himself with the energy.


    As the sun was still up, all Ignis could do now is to attempt to control the Fire Qi and try to absorb the energy with his body. In order to control the Fire Qi, first a cultivator must familiarise themselves with the Qi which Ignis has already accomplished. Then by using their cultivation method to control the surrounding Qi into their body.


    Due to the nature of the first stage of the Solar Eclipse cultivation method, the Fire Qi would be absorbed into the meridian that is located in the hand of the cultivator. However, since Ignis hasn¡¯t even reach Apprentice stage let alone the Absorption Realm the Qi would simply be absorb into his body. After a few hours of trying to control the energy, Ignis frowned and opened his eyes.


    ¡°Hmm, sensing the Qi is one thing but actually controlling is completely another matter. Even though, I have familiarised myself with the Qi. I still have yet manage to move the energy at all let alone controlling it.¡± Ignis sighed and felt down.


    ¡°Maybe I should ask grandfather or uncle Reynold? No! I can¡¯t, if I ask for help so early on that means I have no future being a cultivator.¡± Ignis resolved his will once again.


    Relying on oneself to solve all problem and complications has been ingrained in Ignis¡¯s bone through Aurelius teaching. This is how all Crimson¡¯s cultivator are raised and this is how the Crimson clan became the overlord of the Fire County.


    The nature of the Crimson¡¯s cultivator made them resolute, unyielding and persistent on the path of cultivation is undeniable key to become strong as a cultivator.


    It doesn¡¯t mean a resolute cultivator would be an overlord but all overlords are resolute and unfaltering. Those that are weak-willed and spineless would never go far and would never be a powerful faction that can influence the gargantuan world of cultivators.


    This is why all cultivator clan, sect and academy teaches their young to be adamant and unshakable. However, this also increased the conflict between cultivators this is because cultivators would be uncompromising and stubborn about their Dao and their own path of cultivation. Since every cultivator have their own path this causes conflict of belief and way of the cultivation.


    Due to their uncompromising and unshakable nature once a conflict started it would end in a blood bath or else if ended in mere words then would make damage their Dao path and they would never be able to reach the apex of cultivation. Some people may become deranged and become a demon.


    After a few more hours of contemplating on how to control the energy, Ignis finally felt the fatigue and decided to stop since he wasn¡¯t making any progress. He and Solace, who was now awake, stepped out of his house on to his backyard where the stars in the sky.


    It was now night time and the intense Ice Qi has surfaced, Ignis and Solace lay on the ground staring up on the starry night.


    ¡°Solace, I wonder how grandfather is feeling?¡± Ignis asked and faced Solace who was beside him. Solace then let out a low growl as if he understood what his master asked. Ignis smiled and let out a laugh.


    ¡°Since I can now sense Qi I wonder if I can sense the Ice Qi that made this city so popular for Ice Cultivators.¡±


    Ignis then began to try to sense the Qi but after a moment he immediately sat up and abruptly open his eyes. His whole body was sweating, unlike the Fire Qi that was suited him due to his affinity, Ice Qi was the opposite and was incompatible for Ignis. Since it was his first time sensing the Qi he somehow accidentally controlled the energy and due to this Ignis body went into a shock. He was mentally and physically exhausted.


    Ignis let out a few breaths as if he ran a marathon and was thoroughly exhausted this is because being mentally exhausted meant that he couldn¡¯t think and his brain processing became very slow. After a while, he then calmed down and his energy was somewhat restored. While it was quite dangerous for Ignis, it was a blessing in disguised because he was enlightened on how to control and attract the Qi.


    It could be said that Ignis was very lucky not only did he survived his careless mistake but also go a benefit from this disaster. Being able to sense and attract the Qi on the first day of cultivating can mean a lot to cultivators.


    This is simply because while now at a young age he can start cultivating while for others they can only cultivate after a long time. This made Ignis take an early start in the young generation of cultivators. This small head start can mean one whole cultivation stage in the future and this could even mean that those that belong to the same generation as Ignis could only follow behind on his footstep.


    However, this wouldn¡¯t happen so easily, this is because Ignis is not the only genius in this world. While Ignis has, a head start due to his talent, others would also have an advantage due to their background and resources that are given to them. Not only that, while Ignis is tremendously talented, the world of cultivation has never lack talent, there may be people in the world that are talented as Ignis or even more talented.


    After comprehending his enlightenment Ignis let out one long breath and wiped his sweats.


    ¡°Solace, let sleep here tonight.¡± Ignis, who was still exhausted, said to Solace who agreed with another small growl.


    Authors Note: Chapters will be released on a daily base. If they aren''t then it''s probably due to my school life so I''m sorry about that.

 Chapter 6: The Darkness surrounding the stars.

    Chapter 6: The Darkness surrounding the stars.


    A figure suddenly walks slowly out of the shadow and stand next to Ignis, who has a wide smile as he sleeps.


    The figure sighs as they shook their head and said, ¡°silly child, if you need help then ask. You won¡¯t get far in life without having companions.¡±The figure then let out a wry smile, eventually placing a blanket over Ignis and Solace.


    Moving at an absurd speed, the shadow left Ignis¡¯s courtyard. If Ignis was awake, then he wouldn¡¯t know what to think because he wouldn¡¯t even be able to see the person.


    Soon, he left the Crimson¡¯s clan and arrived at a seemingly normal house that was near the eastern exit of the Twin Fire and Ice city.


    Suddenly, the door open without any warning, revealing the inside of the house. However, it was pitch black, blocking the moonlight from penetrating into the house. Thus, creating a completely dark room that didn¡¯t have any source of light.


    Without a second thought, the figure entered the house and swiftly, he moves across the room and hidden gears starts moving. Out of nowhere, the floor tiles start to split apart, exposing a hidden staircase that led to the underground.


    The figure then walks down on the staircase and appears in a room where there were other figures. Four other figures were sitting around a table, one of them were sleeping as his feet were on the table with his eyes closed.


    ¡°Hmph, is there a need for a room like this. A cultivator at around our level can easily detect this hidden room,¡± the first figure scoff as he took a sit on one of the remaining empty seat.


    Unlike the room above, the room below ground had candle showing the faces of all the figures.


    ¡°Now, now. Aurelius, you know the temperament of Shade he has a hobby creating traps and hidden room.¡± A figure talked to the first shadow who turned out to be Aurelius.


    ¡°Hmph, Lydia why are you defending him.¡± Aurelius once again snorted.


    ¡°Because he is my husband, why else?¡± The figure turned out to be a woman that appeared to be around her 60s. She also wore a robe similar to Aurelius however hers was blue and there were flower patterns on them.


    Another figure shakes his head as he spoke, ¡°Bah. Aurelius, you are bad mouthing me again. Sigh, when you were young, you worshiped the hidden art, Proclaiming to everyone that you would follow my footstep and now you tell others that it¡¯s useless.¡± It turned out this figure is Shade, the owner of the house and the husband of Lydia.


    Shade was wearing matching clothes with Lydia, he also had a blue robe however his was darker and with an ocean pattern on the robe.


    ¡°Hmph, why are you bringing that up? You are just 10 years older so stop acting like you are an elder.¡± Aurelius rebuked the Shade¡¯s nostalgic statement however he seemed to be less angry than before.


    ¡°Haha, Aurelius why you bickering with Shade. Reigs wake up, Aurelius has decided arrive.¡± The man that spoke was holding a hand fan on his right arm and was wearing an earthy brown coloured robe. As he laughed he tap the shoulder of the sleeping person next to him with his fan.


    Reigs let out a yawn, ¡°Hmph, Gias why did you interrupt my meditation¡±. Reigs was still wearing the exact same clothing when Ignis visited him.


    In the dimly light room were 5 people; Aurelius, Lydia, Shade, Reigs and Gias. They are sitting around a table.


    Gias opens his fan, ¡°Aurelius, isn¡¯t it time you tell us why you gathered five elders of Crimson Clan here today.¡± Goas has a scholarly air around him, a slight mysterious aura, as if no one could read what he is thinking.


    ¡°The meeting this time is about Ignis.¡± Aurelius said nonchalantly.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡°Oh, Zephyrus¡¯s and Elena¡¯s son. He turned 6, a few days ago, correct?¡± Shade ask. Similar to everyone else in the room, he also exhibits an aura. However, unlike Gias, who appears to be a scholar and an intelligent man, he is different from Reigs, who exhibits an aloof air around him. Shade¡¯s aura was wicked and shrewd as if anyone were to trust him would not have an easy time.


    Reigs interrupted before Aurelius could respond, saying, ¡°Yes. I tested him and it turned out that he possesses an affinity for both Fire and Darkness. Helios and Ragnar was there also, since they are protecting the library.¡± Aurelius¡¯s eyes twitches slightly as he was interrupted by Reigs.


    Both Lydia, Shade and Gias, all of them lifts their eyebrows up in surprise.


    Shade was the first to speak, ¡°oh, so what cultivation method did he choose? Haha, it wouldn¡¯t happen to be Solar Eclipse, right?¡± Shade laughs as he joke. His jokes however was met by both the dead silence of both Aurelius and Reigs.


    Shade stops laughing and stands up abruptly from his chair in disbelief. ¡°How-how could this be? Wasn¡¯t that cultivation method lost?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, lost? Do you actually think those old fossils would let something precious as that disappear?¡± This time it was the amiable Gias who spoke however he knits his eyebrows and was looking quite annoyed and irritated.


    ¡°Sigh, even though we have the status of elders we are still kept in the dark by such an important secret.¡± Lydia nods as she agrees to Gias¡¯s statement.


    ¡°Ha, what so special about being elders, in the clan hierarchy we aren¡¯t high up enough to be included in these secrets,¡± Reigs said, letting out a bitter laugh.


    ¡°So, you do realise your position,¡± suddenly, out of nowhere, another figure appears in the room. Surprisingly the hidden staircase didn¡¯t open and the man somehow arrives in the room without using the stairs. However, even though the man appeared out of the blue, no one seem to be surprised. Gias and Lydia slowly stood up as if they expecting the man to arrive.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to see you today, Supreme Elder.¡± Both Gias and Lydia greets the mysterious elder while the rest were sitting on their chairs.


    ¡°Hmph, you see what I mean, Shade? If the other person has a higher cultivation level, what can¡¯t he do to us. Appearing in this room and not even bothered by the arrays you have set up.¡± Aurelius said to Shade as he disregards the Supreme Elder¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Haha, true to your nature, you hold a grudge against me don¡¯t you.¡± The Supreme Elder let out a laughs.


    ¡°Hmph, if it weren¡¯t you who gave Ignis the cultivation, then who did?¡± Aurelius rebuts as his eyes was still closed and arm crossed.


    ¡°Haha. Now, if I were to tell you it wasn¡¯t me who gave it to him. What would you think?¡± The Supreme Elder once again let out another hearty laugh and put his hand on the table.


    Even though the supreme elder said it as if it was nothing, it had a big effect on all 5 of the elders. Without an exception, all five stands up and have a surprise expression on their faces with their eyes wide open. If it weren¡¯t for the Supreme Elder putting his hand on the table, it would have been flipped by the sudden upward forces of the five elders.


    ¡°Was-was it Holy Guardian? Or-or the Blood Vanguard? Or could it be?!¡± Aurelius¡¯s body began to shakes with sweat forming on his forehead as he stutter. This is because he was convinced it was the Supreme Elder who gave the cultivation method to Ignis. However, now that his conviction was proven wrong he rattled by the news.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t either the Holy Guardian or the Blood Vanguard who made that decision. They were there when Ignis received it but the only one who has the power to give away the cultivation is the Ancestor.¡±


    Aurelius went quite a for a long time before he then sat down one again. ¡°So, it was a decision made by the Ancestor.¡± Once he calmed down, his mind started to progress once more as he tries to figure out what was going on.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case then it should be Ignis¡¯s fortune however, for the Ancestor to let Ignis practice this cultivation method means that he thinks highly of Ignis¡¯s talent.¡± Commented Gias.


    ¡°The ancestor sure is wise, sigh. Before I arrived here, I was at Ignis¡¯s courtyard and I found that he has managed to sense and control the Qi in the environment,¡± Aurelius sighed as he said.


    The other 4 elders were quite surprised of Aurelius¡¯s report.


    ¡°Oh, he managed to sense and control the Qi in 3 days. That¡¯s quite impressive¡± The Supreme Elder was very pleased with Ignis¡¯s talent.


    ¡°No, it wasn¡¯t 3 days, he managed to do all that within today.¡± Aurelius corrects the Supreme Elder¡¯s misunderstanding.


    Once again, the elders were shocked and the shock given to them was equal when it was revealed that the passing of the cultivation was by action of the Ancestor. However, this time even the Supreme Elder couldn¡¯t hide his expression and they weren¡¯t able to hide the excitement in their eyes.


    ¡°Haha, the Ancestor is wise indeed however I¡¯m sure even he wouldn¡¯t have expected such a result. For now, you should all go home however you must not let this news out. Aurelius, you have to warn Ignis and tell him to never let this secret out.¡± The Supreme Elder laughs before getting serious as he reminds Aurelius.


    The four elder nodded in agreement with him while Aurelius snorted, ¡°Hmph, I know what to do without you telling me.¡± They all begin to leave the hidden room through the staircase. After everyone leaving the house, silence once again returned.

 Chapter 7: Small leads to Big

    Chapter 7: Small leads to Big


    The sun rose into the sky, bringing forth the Fire Qi as the moon descend with the Ice Qi. The city bustled with people, setting up shops and cultivators leaving the city to go hunt demonic beasts for their cores. The city gate opens and the travellers swarm in hoping to get lucky in the Agora market.


    In a certain courtyard of the Crimson clan, Ignis was still sleeping soundly after being exhausted from yesterday. Upon hearing the bird¡¯s chirping, Ignis¡¯s eyes slowly open and he sat up while rubbing his eyes before letting out a yawn.


    ¡°Huh? Where did this blanket come from?¡± Ignis lifts the blanket that was over him and Solace.


    Ignis ponders and then came into realisation, ¡°Ah¡­ it was probably grandfather.¡±


    He then notices Solace next to him, who is still sleeping. ¡°Hmm? Solace wake up it¡¯s already morning.¡± Ignis places his palm on Solace and pats him.


    Solace lets out a small growl as he ponders at the surroundings and yawns as if he wants to sleep more.


    ¡°Haha. Did you not sleep enough?¡± Ignis teases as he lifts Solace into his arms. He then walks back into his house to get dress for the day and had breakfast. The Crimson Clan emphasised on independence so even though Ignis is one of the young masters of the clan, he doesn¡¯t have maids to serve him, so he would have to do the chores himself.


    This is so that cultivators of the clan aren¡¯t spoiled and at the same time, it would decrease the risk of having spies as there are less people in the clan. However, the most important point is so that the cultivators could mature faster so that the clan can depends on them.


    After cleaning himself up with water, Ignis sits down at the centre of his house and begins to sense the Qi around him once more.


    ¡°Phew. Let us try this again.¡± Ignis closes his eyes and Solace can be found sleeping cosily next to him.


    Like before, he manages to sense all the foundation Qi and eventually he focuses on the Fire element. He lets out a breath to calm himself down, and he then starts to operate his senses, however, he chose to not force the Qi like what he did yesterday. He manages to figure out that instead, he needs to invite the Qi into his body and attracting the Qi rather than forcing it.


    It¡¯s almost as if the Qi in the world has a consciousness and if force against its will it would start to resist and fights back. However, to say that Qi has a consciousness would be incorrect, this is simply because if they do then they would have become an Elemental Soul. To be exact, Qi has instinct and would act on that instinct. If the cultivator is friendly to the Qi and is compatible, it would then follow to the commands of the cultivator.


    After being comprehending this yesterday, Ignis commences his attempt to attract the Qi once more. He begins to use his thoughts to appear friendly with the Qi in the air. As if they understand what his intention are, they began to follow his instruction. After a few hours, he manages to lead the energy to move towards his body. As the Qi came closer to his body, he starts to feel the temperature rise up and became even hotter than normal. Ignis starts to sweat as the Qi slowly come closer.


    Once the Qi came into contact with his skin, he groans in surprise as his eyes starts to tremble. The Qi however, dissipates once it touches Ignis¡¯s skin however in doing so cause Ignis to feel the pain of a burn as his skins became sizzling hot and it starts to sting.


    ¡°Why is this happening?¡± Even after countless attempts, the same reaction kept repeating, leaving Ignis no choice other than to be frustrated. His whole body was now searing hot and Ignis has taken off his shirt. If it gets any hotter it might leave Ignis skinless, it''s stressing his body. However, while this process is painful and strenuous to his body it was in fact beneficial as it was strengthening his skin. If Ignis can overcome this ordeal his skin would become tough and resilient.


    After hours of labourious practicing, Ignis stands up in irritation and rustle his hair. He then decided to take a break and went to his courtyard to relax however before he could take another step. The sky started to rain, starting will small droplets. Ignis¡¯s clothes started to became wet as the small droplets penetrated his clothing. Steam starts to form from Ignis as the water touches Ignis¡¯s heated body. Small wet part of his clothes then connected together forming a bigger part causing Ignis whole clothing to be drenched in water when the bigger part connects.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    However, Ignis stood still with his eyes open widely because he was astonished as if a grenade explode in his mind. He immediately returns to his house and rather than changing clothes he promptly sat down in his usual spot.


    Ignis begin to concentrate once more and began to sense the Qi in the air. Then began to once again draw in the Qi however this time he did it in a smaller proportion. Rather than completely dissipating some Qi started to enter the body however majority of it still dissipated. The painful feeling increases when compared to before however this time Ignis didn¡¯t even wince.


    ¡°Haha, finally! A progress. Solace there is finally progress.¡± Ignis grins as his eyes closed tightly like a crescent moon. His adrenaline overcame his pain and he went through the process without noticing that it caused more burden as the Fire Qi try to enter his body. He then picks up Solace and in doing so woke it up.


    The reason for the Qi to dissipate when it reaches the body is simply because the mortal human body is simply unfit to absorb the body. Instead cultivators must try to squeeze in small amount of Qi and once doing so and repeated, the body would get use to the process of Qi entering the body allowing. Once the body is use to, cultivators can absorb in larger amount of Qi. Due this reason, there is a large disparity between an average cultivator that cultivated for 50 years and one cultivated for a measly 10 years.


    The body of a cultivator that has cultivated for 50 years would have qualitative change after so long and can no longer be called a mortal human body. Even if the cultivator does not advance Absorption Realm and has not activate their Dantian their body would not simply be a mortal body. It would be transformed to a Semi-Cultivator body, this is because they have yet to become true Qi cultivator but their body have already evolved due to adapting to the Qi and going through the strenuous process.


    Even though Ignis has not yet manage to absorb the Qi into his body, this progress has lifts his mood. He only stops once the sun set, dusk came and the Ice Qi emerged. The rain had stopped hours ago, when Ignis was still cultivating.


    ¡°OH NO.¡± Ignis shouts as he rushes to his backyard, where he finds the clothes that were hang up this morning, are now wet. Ignis sigh heavily and then left his backyard and return to his courtyard again. After a while, he lies down on the slightly wet grasses, combining with the temperature of the night, it was pleasantly cool for Ignis.


    Solace came out of Ignis¡¯s house and sits next to Ignis as they look up to the sky appreciating the beauty of a stellar night. However, shortly Ignis heard the rumble of his and Solace¡¯s stomach. He exchanges glance with Solace and shows an apologetic and awkward expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Solace, I completely forgot about lunch and dinner.¡± Ignis wryly grins as he scratches the back of his head.


    Solace gave a small growl in protest and then walks into the house. After a while he brings out some apples and peaches.


    Then as the night continue, Ignis and Solace begins to eat the fruits as they watch the stars and once again slept comfortably which gave a serene atmosphere to the peaceful night.


    ¡­


    The night left quietly and the morning came with a bang as the citizens began their daily life.


    The following days for Ignis repeated like normal; wake up, eat, clean up, cultivate, eat dinner then sleep outside. It¡¯s become a habit for Ignis and on the 10th day of his cultivation something changed. He went through the labourious process so much that it has become normal and it doesn¡¯t affect his concentration anymore.


    Ignis slowly open his eyes as he was sitting on the floor, his eyes reveal his excitement as it turns out after 10 day of attempting to attract the Qi into his body, a wisp of the Qi has managed to enter. Once it entered his body it dissipates and was absorbs into the muscle and bone of the body.


    At this moment, Ignis whole body twitches as the Qi is absorbed into the muscle and bone and he scream out in pain. The feeling isn¡¯t like anything Ignis has felt before, it was like countless ants biting his bones and muscles. Fortunately for Ignis, it only lasted for a short time and the Qi absorbed was in a small proportion.


    The effect on Ignis¡¯s body was minuscule due to the Qi absorb was just a wisp however this small step was huge to Ignis whose effort paid off. Ignis breath in relief as the pain subsided. On his face a grin that was so wide form up to the point his mouth corner was close to his ears. Abruptly, he picks up Solace and starts to squish him with his hugs.


    After a while, Ignis finally calms down and realised something.


    ¡°Oh right, grandma Alyssa told me to visit grandpa once I managed to absorb in Qi. Hmm, I¡¯ll just go tomorrow¡± Ignis store the thought into the back of his mind and starts to absorb the Qi once more. Similar to before, he manages to absorb a wisp of Qi which would dissipate in his body and be absorbed by the bones and muscle. Ignis¡¯s eyebrows start to twitch again as the pain emerge yet once more and the feeling of being eaten from the inside appeared. After every cycle of absorbing Qi, Ignis has to stop for few moments so that the pain subsides.


    Ignis continues the process until night came and slept outside with Solace become a habit as if they couldn¡¯t sleep inside the house anymore.

 Chapter 8: Whats next?

    Chapter 8: What¡¯s next?


    In a medium sized courtyard, there was an old man in his 50s with a woman. They drink tea as they relax outside of their house. While talking to each other they constantly peek at the entrance of their house like they are waiting for someone to appear.


    ¡°Grandpa, Grandma! Good morning¡± A boy rushes to them and greets them with a bow. On his shoulder is a lion cub that has a pair of wings on its body. A boy visiting his grandparent has quite a tranquil atmosphere that could move any children book author. The grandparents nodded as they were very pleased by the boy¡¯s manner.


    The boy was Ignis and Solace is on his shoulder. Once Ignis enters the courtyard, Solace immediately jumps off his shoulder and starts running toward Alyssa. The moment he reaches her, he jumps up and landed on her lap.


    Alyssa has visited Ignis a few days ago, so Ignis isn¡¯t surprise at Solace¡¯s actions. Instead, he is very happy that his companion is acting familiar to his family. And plus, his grandma didn¡¯t find Solace as a bother, rather she actually welcomes him which proved by her action, as she rubs his fur as he sits her lap.


    However, the serene atmosphere didn¡¯t last long as the Aurelius snorts with his eyes close.


    ¡°Hmph, only now do you visit your grandparents. I thought you have forgotten these old fossils.¡±


    ¡°Ha? Why you saying that to the boy, you want me to beat you up?¡± Alyssa smacks Aurelius shoulder so that he would stop talking.


    Even though his wife got angry and hits him, Aurelius had an indifferent expression.


    Ignis wryly laugh as he rustled his hair.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about him, even though that¡¯s what he said, he has always visit you every night.¡± Alyssa consoled Ignis as she places her hand on the chair next to her and pats it motioning Ignis to sit down.


    This time, Aurelius that once angry had his eyes wide open and his face became a tad redder than before. However, rather than angry to be more exact he feels embarrass that his act is out. He glances at Ignis before closing his eyes again.


    The peaceful scene continues as Ignis chats with Alyssa, while Aurelius sitting beside them, not saying a word but had a calm and serene expression as if he just enjoys spending time with his family. Eventually, Alyssa starts telling Ignis of her long trip and this continues until noon when the sun starts to descend.


    Aurelius looks toward the sun set before speaking his mind, ¡°Hmm, Ignis it''s time I tell you why you are here today.¡± Aurelius interrupts Alyssa¡¯s and Ignis¡¯s chat that didn¡¯t seem to end any time soon.


    ¡°Tell me how far have you progressed in your cultivation.¡± Aurelius asks as he stands up with both his hand cross.


    ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯ve managed to be able to absorb wisps of Fire Qi into my body.¡± Ignis stands up as he obediently reports his progress to his grandparents.


    Aurelius was very satisfied, with a small hint of pride he smiled to show his approval while Alyssa is simply just content that she got to spend time with her grandson.


    ¡°Ignis, what do you think is the next step?¡± Aurelius questions him.


    ¡°Eh-?¡± Ignis places his hand on his forehead and massage it.


    ¡°Next step?... I suppose I would to have continue until I absorb Qi until my body can enter the Apprentice stage?¡± Ignis ponders and then answer with reluctant as he is afraid of his grandfather getting angry. He was unsure at first but after thinking carefully he realised that he is still clueless.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct however what is the requirement for your body to enter the Apprentice stage?¡± Aurelius nodded and continues to ask the next question.


    ¡°If I remember correctly for a mortal to become an apprentice he must be able to perform a basic martial art.¡± Ignis crossed his arms and thought carefully before answering.


    Aurelius nodded again to acknowledge that Ignis¡¯s answer is correct.


    Martial Arts are completely different from Martial Skills. Skills would requires the activation of Dantian and Qi, while Martial Arts are simply moves that a cultivator can executes to form attack, defend or movement. However, Martial Art can be the base of a Martial Skill, for example, the Tyrant Leg Art was transformed into Glacial Onslaught Kick by the ruler of the North, Tyrant Raigus.


    Martial Art is the first step for any cultivator. By practicing, Martial Art can be seen as creating a foundation for Martial Skills in the future.


    Aurelius operated energy into his Dimension Ring and a book suddenly appeared in his palms. He then handed the book to Ignis.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    ¡°Foundation art. Grandfather¡­ does that mean?¡± Ignis hold the book and his body shook on realising.


    ¡°Yes, if you can learn and master the Foundation art then you can be regarded as an Apprentice.¡± Aurelius patted Ignis head while having a big smile that was full of expectation.


    ¡°Ignis, once you can perform the Foundation art, go and meet your uncle Reynold. He will tell you what to do next.¡± Aurelius said as he and Alyssa exchange glance before they look at Ignis. Their gazes are full of warmth and care.


    After a moment of pause, Aurelius spoke. ¡°Alyssa and I will have to leave for a trip and we won¡¯t be back for some time.¡±


    ¡°Eh?! You guys are leaving? Where?¡± Ignis is shocked by the news and his eyes became teary as soon as he hears what Aurelius said.


    ¡°Ignis, we can¡¯t tell you where however I trust that you are an independent person. You can¡¯t cry.¡± Aurelius face tense up once more as he said with a stern expression.


    Alyssa pulls Ignis closer and hugs him for comfort. Ignis sniffled as he tries to hold back his tears, his mouth whimpers as he looks down.


    ¡°When will you come back then.¡± Ignis asks one more hoping to know more.


    ¡°We won¡¯t be back for quite some time dear. However, you are never alone, you have to remember that.¡± Alyssa said in a caring tone, attempting to calm down Ignis.


    ¡°When¡­ are you leaving then?¡± Ignis asks softly as he pouts.


    Aurelius¡¯s stern gaze soften as he look at Ignis¡¯s face for a short period before it return to the firm expression.


    ¡°We will be leaving tomorrow. Enough questions, it¡¯s time for you to go home and rest.¡±


    Ignis nodded lightly and obediently do as Aurelius¡¯s order as left his grandfather¡¯s courtyard in heavy step.


    Aurelius¡¯s and Alyssa¡¯s gaze on Ignis back with sadness and heartache. However, they did not say anything but sighed and walked back together into their house.


    Once Ignis slowly left his grandparents¡¯ house he immediately starts to run with all his might back to his house and Solace runs behind him trying to catch up. For the first time in a while he laid on his actual bed and starts crying in anguish. Ignis rarely ever cries even when tempering his body with Qi he didn¡¯t shed tears.


    Solace, who sits next to him as Ignis cries, tries to comfort him and lets out a few small growls. He then nuzzles Ignis with his nose trying to lift up Ignis¡¯s mood.


    After a while, Ignis finally calms down and grabs Solace next to him into his arms and hugs him tightly. Solace growls in protest at first however he soon quiets down when he hears Ignis speaks.


    ¡°Solace, it¡¯ll just be me and you now.¡± Ignis red eyes became teary once more but he did not cry instead he rubbed his eyes and then leave his bed to go to his courtyard.


    Like any other day, Ignis and Solace laid on the cold grass and sleep as if there was nothing to worry about in this world.


    The next day came like normal except when Ignis woke up as he lifts the blanket that was put over him without him knowing there was a note next to him. He read the note and his eyes that was red from yesterday became even more teary however he did not cry and just rubbed his eyes.


    ¡°Ignis you aren¡¯t alone, while you must be independent. You still have Solace and your uncle Reynold. When you ever come across a problem, you can ask your uncle. You don¡¯t need to visit my residence, since Alyssa and I have already left by the time you wake up. We won¡¯t be back after some time but during that time, you must not slacks off and most importantly, you must never be arrogant. Those that are arrogant always fall miserably due them not seeing the sky above their sky. Also, you must not reveal that you manages to sense and control Qi within a day, there will be those that fear and envy your talent. Goodbye my grandson, cultivate and get stronger.¡±


    Ignis folds the letter and stand up while holding the letter tightly. He eventually walk back inside his house where he opens a cupboard and places the letter into it. He breath in and out for a moment. With high spirit, he will begin his daily life once again, but first starting with breakfast.


    After eating breakfast, he once again repeats his day like any other days, sitting down and absorbing Qi which is then used to temper his body. His will was now strengthened due to the departure of his grandparents, currently even when he feels the pain he didn¡¯t take any break. It could be said that this process is very boring, repetitive and require high patience.


    If you lack patience, it will get you nowhere in the world of cultivation, especially those young masters that throw their weight around in secular world. They can only mess around and can¡¯t advance any further in their cultivation. All of them are treated in disdain by the normal people and especially by those within the clan. Afterall, their action reflect the reputation of the clan.


    Only through constant hard works can a cultivator become stronger. However, while hard works can improve a cultivator¡¯s cultivation, those that stand on the apex of the world are all heaven-defying individuals. Life has never been fair, those without talent can only reach so far before they fall down due to the severe power of Time. While a life of a cultivator can be considered heavenly, sometimes a life of a normal mortal isn¡¯t so bad as they can carry on their daily life without living in solitude like cultivators. They live a normal life and have family and spend time with each other while being ignorant of the world. While they may experience hardship, they can be considered trivial once compared to the hardship of a cultivator.


    For example, the merchants in the city, they aren¡¯t the strongest and wouldn¡¯t be able to dominate an area with an iron first however they wouldn¡¯t have to experience the path of a cultivator which can be considered blissful. Some cultivators aren¡¯t able to last in the path of a cultivator and they grow weary, as a result, they stop their cultivation and fall. No longer aiming to reach higher but instead settle down to cleanse their heart and live the rest of their life as mortals.


    However, mortals will always bow down to cultivators simply due to them being weak, in the current world the strong rule the weak while they may not experience the hardship of a cultivator. They must follow the orders of others and they aren¡¯t able to control their own fate or destiny.


    ¡­


    At the exit of the Twin Fire and Ice city, a caravan can be seen with two horse pulling it. Inside the caravan, there¡¯s Alyssa and Aurelius sitting down, they¡¯re looking back to the city and toward the direction of the Crimson clan.


    ¡°I hope Ignis can carry himself up and be diligent in his cultivation.¡± Alyssa said as she looks at her husband.


    ¡°Of course, he can, he is my grandson after all¡± Aurelius retorts to Alyssa statement.


    ¡°Hmph, what you mean. He is only like this because he is my grandson.¡± Alyssa snorts and crosses her arm.


    Alyssa then smile wryly as the caravan exited the city and enter the Forest of Ivern

 Chapter 9: Weird Antics

    Chapter 9: Weird Antics.


    It has been half a month since Aurelius and Alyssa left the clan, leaving Ignis alone with Solace. Cultivation was the only thought in his mind as he spends the time doing nothing other than cultivation. Even though Aurelius told him to ask his uncle for help, he had simply stayed in his house and cultivated. The only time he didn¡¯t cultivates was to get food from the clan¡¯s storage so that he wouldn¡¯t starve to death. Other than that, he just takes a short rest before continuing the cultivation.


    After a half month time, his body had been strengthened through experiencing excruciating pain and had entered the next stage. Before cultivation, his punches could barely equal to 1 bull. However, at the current moment, his power has increased to 5 bull. This occasion is worth celebrating, since it meant that his body has fulfilled one of the conditions for Ignis to reach the Apprentice stage, for body cultivators that is.


    To reach the Apprentice stage, each one of other type of the cultivators would have a different requirement. For example, the bloodline cultivators would need to purify their blood past the 1<sup>st</sup> stage, and activates one of their bloodline characteristic. Another example would be the Symbol Cultivators, as they must meet the requirement to be able to read a symbol belonging to the Foundation stage.


    Cultivating the body would be more painful in the later stages however it could also be seen as a simpler type of cultivation. Anyone can achieve success in cultivating their body as long as they can endure the pain and put in the hard work. However, to cultivate either a Bloodline or Symbol, they must meet that specialised requirement that belongs to the cultivation. For example, to cultivate the way of Symbols, a cultivator would require to have Mental Energy to be able to cultivate. If they weren¡¯t born with this energy, then the only way to cultivate it is by artificially gaining it through the uses of rare treasures and resources.


    The day begins for Ignis as he wakes up on his courtyard with Solace besides him. ¡°Good morning, Solace. Let¡¯s have another good day.¡±


    Ignis yawns as he carries Solace who was half-asleep into their house to prepare for the day.


    ¡­


    Within the Crimson clan, there is a house that looks like it has been neglected for decades. The whole house is covered in dust and cobweb. This house that looks like it has been abandoned belonged to Reynold, cousin of the current clan leader. Only the door of the house looks a bit cleaner, simply because there would be people assigned to take care of Reynold¡¯s food. This is so that he wouldn¡¯t be disturbed while in secluded cultivation.


    Slowly, the doors start to move like an ancient tomb opening its entrance and coming out from the house is a coughing man that looks like he is in his 40s. It is no other than Reynold who just walked out of his home.


    ¡°Gah-?! Why does my house look so dirty?¡± Reynold said, speechless as he sees the unbelievable spectacle of his neglected house. Reynold scratches the back of his head as he faces towards the entrance to his courtyard and left the place like nothing happen.


    Even after 30 minutes, Reynold was still walking. He made a turn to the right, left, left and left again. His turns became even more sporadic, and after an hour of walking, he was right back in his courtyard.


    Reynold¡¯s eyes twitches as he realises that he returned to his home and unknowingly sighs.


    ¡°I suppose, I should have asked uncle where to find Ignis.¡±


    Reaching the Absorption Realm doesn¡¯t make Reynold a genius; far from it. Reaching this realm doesn¡¯t change a person¡¯s power. Instead, it amplifies their strength. Reynold never had a sense for direction; when he wants to go north he goes south, when he wanted to visit a friend¡¯s house he ended up at his grandparent¡¯s home, and when he wanted to travel to Country of Wind he ended up arriving in the Country of Earth instead. Not only that, he even has a severe memory, combining the fact that he had secluded himself in his house for 10 years, it wouldn¡¯t be surprising that he forgot his way around the clan.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    All Reynold could do for now is to wait until Ignis decides to visit him. After taking a deep breath, Reynold decides to go back inside his house to cultivate once again.


    However, even before taking another step, Reynold immediately changes his mind with a thought that abruptly appearing. ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ve been cooped up in the house for 10 years now. I should go to the Ivern forest so that I can test out my strength.¡± Reynold¡¯s eyes brightened and once again left his house.


    On that afternoon, a miracle appeared as if god gave his blessing to this uncle. Reynold somehow managed to arrive at the Ivern forest without getting lost on his way there. Reynold breath in relief and with no hint of hesitation he goes into the forest, even though he didn¡¯t prepare anything beforehand.


    The instant Reynold entered the forest, a four-legged beast appears. Black stripes that resembles lightning strikes ran down the beast¡¯s white coat. Once Reynold spots the beast, he immediately figures what race species it is as he laughs in delight.


    ¡°Oh ho-ho, so the beast I first encounter after coming out of my hibernation is a Volt Tiger. Yes, you would make a perfect present for Ignis, with your skin be used to create lightning resistant armor, not to mention your Demonic Core,¡± Reynold said, admiring the beast¡¯s valuable assets, immediately afterward the smirk on his face vanishes and a serious expression appears as he concentrates.


    Reynold took his stance as he crouches down and his two hands spreads out. It was like he prepares to catch the beast if it decides to run away from the battle.


    The Volt Tiger let out a ear-splitting roar and rushed forward like it had no intention in preserving its life. Even though the Demonic Beasts are smarter than a normal forest animal, if their rank wasn¡¯t high enough, then their intelligence is still limited.


    Take this Volt Tiger for example. it is currently only at a the Basic Rank. It¡¯s hunting strategy is quite simple; rush into attack and if injured severely, it will retreat and flee. Only after it advances its ranks would its intelligence gradually increase according to the level. This is completely the opposite of human cultivator as Demonic Beast would overcome their weak points with each breakthrough, making them more balanced in a whole while human cultivators would simply sharpen their strengths.


    Every step the Volt Tiger took, it left a deep footprint to showcase the power it¡¯s using. It lunges at Reynold with its claw ready to tear him into pieces. Even though this is what it hope to do, nothing ever goes according to plan.


    As soon as the Volt Tiger leaped into air, Reynold lifts his feet and swiftly kicks the belly of the beast. Due the force of the kick, the Volt Tiger flew backward and would have slams onto a tree however shortly after it been kicked, Reynold¡¯s hands grasps hold of the tiger¡¯s belly. This caused the tiger to feel the effect of a whiplash on its neck while its belly is being grabbed hold by a stranger.


    However, that should be the least of its worries because, as soon as Reynold held the tiger in mid air with his left hand, his right-hand contracts and Qi begins to be concentrated around his fist. Despite the desert like temperature, the air around Reynolds abruptly became cold and ice starts to surround his fist, almost like a gauntlet made out of ice.


    Once the gauntlet was formed without a delay, Reynold unleashes his fist straight to the Volt Tiger¡¯s head. If Reynold uses any more power, then it would have completely pulverised the head, but Reynold held back. Upon receiving that punch, the Volt Tiger, without anything holding it in place, flew backward once again, only this time it crashes against a tree and wrecked by the impact, the tree fell down.


    After receiving the punch to the head and crashing onto the tree, the Volt Tiger twitched so slightly on the ground. As its brain was crushed and its life force slowly slipped through its body until it no longer twitched, leaving this world and entering into the afterlife.


    Reynold¡¯s cold eyes sees that the Volt Tiger had stopped twitching, making a smirk form on his face as he laughed.


    ¡°Hmm, I still got it. Haha,¡± he said before walking towards the corpse of the Volt Tiger.


    What Aurelius didn¡¯t notice is that, even though with a decade of close door cultivation, Reynold¡¯s rank didn¡¯t increase. He went through a qualitative change as he tempered his foundation and solidifying it. During this time, he managed to survive through the haunting of his inner-demon, despite it is still there in his heart and mind, but he has managed to control it, and it no longer bothers him.


    Reynold operates his Qi into a ring that is on his hand and the Volt Tiger corpse suddenly vanished into nothingness. What happened was the Volt Tiger got absorbed into a Dimension ring and is currently being stored there.


    ¡°Yes. This would be the perfect gift for Ignis. Haha.¡±


    After having this short battle, Reynold decides to leave, feeling satisfied with the result of his trip. However, his luck ran short since he got lost. He dryly laughed while scratching the back of his head in confusion. While he managed to reach the Crimson clan, he has somehow managed to get lost.


    ¡°Sigh... I suppose I¡¯ll just ask someone for directions.¡±


    With that decided, Reynold goes to a house near him and then he spots someone.