Xianzhou Continent - Year 2993 of Cycle of Qi (CQ)
The seasons turned, an unceasing march of time within the peaceful embrace of the tribe. Silak, now a fine young boy, found his every waking thought drawn to the mysteries of cultivation.
He opened his eyes as the lingering stillness of meditation fades. Rising up, his young muscles feel stiff from stillness, so he performed a few simple stretches. Afterward, he paused briefly, lowering his gaze to observe his palms, lost in thought.
'It still feels surreal,' he mused, the weight of six years in this new world settling upon him. 'Time to take review my progress.'
Corporeal Refinement Realm (Overall Stage – Bronze)
Bone Enhancement – Titan's Ossuary >> Bronze Stage
Tendon Strengthening – The Unyielding Threads >> Bronze Stage
Bloodline Awakening – Primordial Genesis >> Bronze Stage
Muscle Activation – Herculean Forge >> Bronze Stage
Skin Tempering – Unbreakable Shroud >> Bronze Stage
"Looks like I'm finally ready to begin gathering and refining Qi. I've reached the bronze stage in the Corporeal Refinement Realm," Silak murmured, a thrill of anticipation running through him as he reviewed his cultivation techniques and hard-won achievements.
The levels of the Corporeal Refinement Realm were distinct, each division marked by the difference in hues of Bronze, Silver, and Gold for these initial tiers.
Silak's bones now held the dull gleam of bronze, a reflection mirrored in the resilient strands of his tendons. His blood retained its crimson hue, yet a faint bronze shimmer pulsed within. Muscles rippled with a dual-toned weave of red and bronze, while his skin, seemingly normal from afar, revealed a subtle speckling of bronze upon closer inspection.
"I must tell Father and Mother. My progress indicates I'm ready for Qi cultivation," Silak exclaimed softly before bursting into a run, eager to share his news.
"Father! Mother!" He called out, his voice echoing through the empty main room. They were not there. A frown creased his brow. An elder meeting at this hour was unusual. 'Has something happened?' He wondered, sinking onto a woven mat to wait for their return.
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Meanwhile, within the dimly lit meeting hall, adorned with carvings depicting ancient tribal spirits, Rajah Bayani, his wise wife Iskra by his side, presided over the anxious gathering of Elders as they discussed the unsettling changes within the forest. A palpable tension filled the air, etched on every worried face.
Elder Shardani, her voice grave, addressed the assembly. "My exploration of the forest reveals an unnatural agitation among the creatures. Their heightened aggression looks like it stems from fear, a desperate instinct for survival."
"Something… or someone," she emphasized, "is driving these significant migrations. Creatures that are once confined in the deepest parts of the forest, unseen until now, are venturing out to the edge of the forest."
Rajah Bayani nodded, his expression grim, before turning to Bantug, the tribe's chief hunter. "What reports have our hunters and warriors brought back? Any signs of these unusual activities?"
Bantug's voice held a note of concern. "Yes, Rajah. Morale is dwindling due to the sudden surge of formidable beasts. Thankfully, we've avoided fatalities, but many encounters have resulted in severe injuries."
"Consequently," he continued, "our hunts have become less frequent, limited to our strongest warriors to minimize further harm."
"Elders," Rajah Bayani stated, his gaze sweeping across their worried faces, "we must decide on a course of action. Our immediate priority should be scouting for a new location, a safer haven far from this disturbance. Our swift action is crucial to prevent the worst scenario for our tribe."
He added, "However, we must remain realistic. We cannot know the duration or the extent of this threat. Instruct the scouts to not only seek a suitable location but also to meticulously survey the surrounding lands for any similar signs."
The meeting continued to carefully plan the tribes plan to relocate. The hushed tones of discussion lingering in the hall as the specific pros and cons were debated.
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Silak, having waited what felt like an eternity, finally decided to seek out his parents. He learned they were still in the meeting hall with the elders. 'It seems serious,' he thought, a flicker of unease touching his excitement. 'I'll ask them later.' He turned and made his way towards the familiar quiet of the library.
Sssshaaaah, Hsssshhhhh, Grrrkkkk
'Hmm? What was that?' Silak halted, his head tilting towards the source of the strange sound. With nothing pressing him, curiosity piqued, he changed direction, following the unusual noise.