Chen Haotian stood within the vast training ground surrounded by spiritual qi. The spiritual qi within his body gradually grew denser, as if he had stepped into an unprecedented realm. His eyes were slightly closed, the surrounding airflow gently spinning as his aura condensed into shape, and a faint blue light shimmered around his body.
"The Qi Condensation Stage—successfully breakthrough." He said quietly in his heart, feeling as though he had entered a new tier. Although it was only the beginning, this first step of breakthrough brought him immense joy and satisfaction.
Yet this contentment lasted for only a moment before he quickly realized that true cultivation was only just beginning. The Qi Condensation Stage was merely the first threshold of the path of immortal cultivation; after this breakthrough, every subsequent step would be fraught with endless challenges and trials.
"After the breakthrough, your next task is to stabilize your spiritual qi and consolidate your cultivation base," the Guide's voice echoed in his ear, carrying a profound undertone. "At this stage, you must not only strengthen the circulation of your spiritual qi, but also cultivate more mental cultivation methods and spells so you can gradually advance toward higher realms."
"Mental cultivation methods and spells?" Chen Haotian frowned. He had heard some lore regarding immortal cultivation, but did not fully understand the specific process of practice. He realized he still required deeper study to better grasp this path.
The Guide seemed to perceive Chen Haotian's doubts and said softly, "You have already mastered the basics of the Qi Condensation Stage, but relying solely on the cultivation of spiritual qi is not enough to truly reach higher tiers. Next, you must practice some more advanced spells and mental cultivation methods to maximize the efficacy of your spiritual qi in combat. Only then can you gradually set foot upon the path of Foundation Establishment."
"Foundation Establishment?" Hearing this term, a flash of light crossed Chen Haotian's eyes. "What realm is that?"
"The Foundation Establishment Stage is the second major stage for a cultivator," the Guide's voice grew even steadier. "It marks a cultivator's progression from the Qi Condensation Stage to a higher realm. Upon breaking through to the Foundation Establishment Stage, the cultivator's spiritual qi is no longer confined within the body, but can condense into a much sturdier foundation, enhancing their cultivation and combat capabilities. At that time, your spiritual qi will become purer, enabling you to drive stronger spells and even begin refining some basic pills."
"So that's how it is." A brilliant gleam flashed in Chen Haotian's eyes. "Then how should I advance toward the Foundation Establishment Stage?"
"The breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment Stage first requires achieving 'internal and external harmony,'" the Guide continued. "You must not only stabilize the spiritual qi within your body, but also wield spiritual qi externally to form a true energy field. Only through internal and external harmony can you fully prepare for Foundation Establishment."
Chen Haotian took a deep breath, his heart filled with resolve. Although the breakthrough in the Qi Condensation Stage brought him gratification, he knew he was still a far cry from those truly powerful cultivators. To become genuinely strong, he had to practice unceasingly, break through every bottleneck, and surpass himself time and again.
"You may now begin attempting some basic spells," the Guide's voice sounded once more. "Through the practice of spells, you will further enhance your ability to control spiritual qi and accumulate strength for subsequent breakthroughs."
Chen Haotian nodded. Following the Guide's instructions, he concentrated his mind, mobilized the spiritual qi within his body, and began running a simple spell—the Fireball Technique. He formed hand seals, and as the spiritual qi within him circulated, a pale red flame appeared in his palm.
"The Fireball Technique—the energy of the flame is relatively simple and easy to control, but it can also temper your ability to mobilize spiritual qi," the Guide observed from the side. "Though this is merely a basic spell, it is an excellent training opportunity for you."
Chen Haotian frowned slightly. The flame burned in his palm; while not particularly powerful, it was fiercely hot. The process of controlling the flame seemed far from simple. The flame in his palm swelled and shrank by turns, as if possessed by an unruly, volatile temper.
He attempted to circulate his spiritual qi to control the size of the flame, silently reciting the incantation in his heart, but the fluctuations of the flame remained unstable until it finally went out. He felt somewhat disappointed, yet his resolve to continue practicing grew even firmer.
"Failure is normal," the Guide comforted. "Controlling spells is a progressive process. You are still in the Qi Condensation Stage; mobilizing spiritual qi and wielding spells takes time. Remember, all cultivation requires patience and cannot be rushed."
Chen Haotian took a deep breath and once again began circulating his spiritual qi. This time, he focused entirely on the flow of spiritual qi, attempting to maintain the stability of the flame without excessive anxiety. Gradually, the fireball reappeared in his palm. Only this time, it was much steadier. Although still slightly weak, Chen Haotian felt a surge of inner joy—he had successfully mobilized the spiritual qi and kept the spell under control.
"Not bad." The Guide's voice carried a hint of approval. "This is the true meaning of immortal cultivation: control and patience. You have taken your first step, but remember, the path of cultivation has no end. Every spell and every breakthrough will bring new challenges waiting for you."
"I understand." Chen Haotian nodded slightly, his blood beginning to boil with fervor. Long and arduous though the path of cultivation might be, he felt not a shred of fear. Every breakthrough and every challenge made him increasingly aware that his goal went far beyond this.
"Now that you are able to wield simple spells, you can continue your practice to master more spells and mental cultivation methods," the Guide continued. "However, while cultivating, you must also mind your physical condition to avoid over-consuming spiritual qi, which could lead to qi disorder."
"Understood." Chen Haotian nodded. He was gradually coming to understand the various difficulties and challenges a cultivator must face. Cultivation was not merely about increasing one's strength, but also about tempering and refining one's own soul.
As time passed, Chen Haotian's cultivation continuously improved. His spiritual qi gradually grew more stable, and his execution of the Fireball Technique grew increasingly proficient. He began practicing additional spells, gradually mastering the Wind Blade Technique and the Water Shield Technique. These simple yet practical spells laid a solid foundation for his path of cultivation.
Yet Chen Haotian knew deep down that all of this was merely a beginning. His goal was not to linger in the Qi Condensation Stage, but to break through to a higher realm—the Foundation Establishment Stage.
"The cultivation of mental methods must not be ignored either," the Guide's words reminded Chen Haotian once more. "Mental methods and spells are both indispensable parts of cultivation. Mental methods help you stabilize your spiritual qi and elevate your cultivation base, while spells serve as your vital weapons in combat."
"I understand." Chen Haotian nodded, determined not only to practice spells but also to master some advanced mental methods to lay an even firmer foundation for his path of cultivation.
"The path of cultivation is fraught with challenges, but it is also full of opportunities," the Guide's voice gradually faded into the distance. "As long as you persevere and never forget your original aspiration, you will ultimately break through all dilemmas and advance toward higher realms."
Chen Haotian quietly closed his eyes, feeling the flow of spiritual qi within his body as a fierce determination surged in his heart. The path of immortal cultivation was an endless road, and he was fully prepared to welcome all future challenges.