In ancient times, the twelve zodiac animals gradually emerged from the long-term living practices of the ancients. Observing nature, the ancients used twelve animals to correspond to the twelve earthly branches for keeping years and conveniently recording cycles.
Yet, alongside this legend exists another: it is said that the twelve zodiac animals were created by the Yellow Emperor. The Yellow Emperor once sought out the most formidable Daoist priest and infused spiritual power into the bodies of the twelve zodiac animals, granting them magical abilities. The magical power within each animal represented Daoist Arts that had long been lost to the present day. That very priest was the Ancestor of Metaphysics, who poured his entire lifetime's magical power into these twelve zodiac animals.
Anyone lacking profound magical power who gathered all twelve zodiac animals would die a sudden death. Acquiring just one had no particular effect, but once someone obtained one share of magical power, they were destined never to receive a second. Unless they transferred the power by forcible means, it was impossible for additional magical power to enter that person's body.
Chapter 106