7 Embracing the Coven (2)
As the sun set, Seraphina returned to her room at "The Golden Dragon Inn." Excitement and determination filled her heart as she prepared for her first cultivation session using the Rosevine Coven's technique. She closed the door behind her and lit a few candles, casting a soft glow across the room.
Sitting cross-legged on the floor, she took a deep breath, centering her mind and calming her thoughts. She held the book containing the cultivation technique, feeling its weight and significance. It was her first step towards becoming a true cultivator in Aetheria.
With steady focus, Seraphina started to read through the pages again, absorbing the knowledge of the technique. The diagrams of intricate seal formations and the explanations of Qi manipulation sparked a sense of wonder in her. It was like deciphering a complex puzzle.
As she delved deeper into the technique, she began to feel a faint connection with the Qi of the world around her. She could sense the energy flowing through the air, the trees, and the earth beneath her.
"This is incredible!" she whispered to herself. "I can actually feel the Qi!"
The sensation was unlike anything she had experienced before. She could only dream of cultivating and harnessing such power during her previous life. But now, in Aetheria, she can make her dreams a reality.
Focusing her mind, Seraphina followed the instructions in the book, forming the seal patterns with her hands and channeling her Qi. She closed her eyes, visualizing the qi inside her and guiding it through the pathways described in the technique.
At first, it felt awkward and unnatural, but with each repetition, she grew more comfortable and attuned to the process. Time seemed to lose meaning as she practiced late into the night, her determination unwavering.
As the first rays of dawn peeked through her window, Seraphina finally felt a breakthrough. A gentle warmth spread throughout her body, and a soft, golden glow enveloped her form. She had successfully cultivated her Qi for the first time.
"Damn, I made it to the first level of the Essence Attainment Realm! This feels like one of those MMORPG Level Up animations I played back in my first life!"
Exhausted but exhilarated, she collapsed onto her bed, falling into a deep and restful sleep. Her dreams were filled with visions of soaring through the sky, wielding powerful spells, and standing tall as a respected cultivator.
In the following days leading up to the entrance exam, Seraphina continued to dedicate herself to her cultivation practice. She honed her understanding of the Rosevine Coven's technique, refining her control over Qi and strengthening her connection to the world's energy.
To prepare for the examination, she sought secluded spots near the village where she could train in peace.
As the exam approached, Seraphina found herself feeling both excited and nervous. She knew this would be a pivotal moment in her journey, and the thought of impressing the Rosevine Coven's elders and matriarch filled her with anticipation.
On the eve of the examination, she returned to the village and headed straight to the local teahouse. With a cup of fragrant tea, she reviewed the techniques and principles again, visualizing herself performing flawlessly during the exam.
[The day of the examination]
As she made her way to the examination grounds, she couldn't help but notice the other two examinees, both women like herself. One had an air of confidence, her eyes sharp and determined. The other appeared reserved, her posture calm but her gaze focused.
The three examinees were ushered into a serene courtyard surrounded by blooming roses and ancient trees. In the center stood the examination platform, where the Rosevine Coven's elders and core disciples awaited to assess their potential.
"Welcome, aspiring cultivators," an elder greeted them with a warm smile. "Today, you will be tested on your comprehension of basic cultivation techniques, affinity with seals, and the ability to manipulate Qi. Remember, the examination is not only about displaying power but also your understanding of our sect's principles."
Seraphina took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the challenges ahead.
As the three examinees stood in the serene courtyard, an elder explained the first part of the examination.
"In this segment, you will demonstrate your grasp of basic cultivation techniques and your ability to manipulate Qi."
The confident-looking examinee, named Elara, stepped forward first. She raised her hand, and a shimmering ball of Qi materialized above her palm. She shaped the Qi into various forms, displaying her control over its essence with fluid movements.
"Excellent control of Qi manipulation," one of the elders remarked with approval.
Next was Seraphina's turn. She took a deep breath to steady herself and focused on the techniques she had learned from the book provided by the Coven. With a soft chant, she summoned her Qi, allowing it to flow through her meridians.
Her amethyst-colored eyes sparkled with determination as she deftly molded the Qi into different shapes, impressing the onlooking elders.
Finally, it was the reserved examinee's turn. Her name was Lyra, and she appeared calm and composed. Her Qi took on a serene and ethereal quality, weaving around her like a gentle breeze. The elders observed, nodding in approval at her refined control.
"It appears to be a good batch today, don't you agree?"
"Indeed, but they have talent ... But it will be for naught if they couldn't grasp our foundations. We have adhered to them since the founding of our Coven."
"You are right, Elder Nyra. We must be patient. Even if we may be talented successors, we must be selective since we do not adhere to mass production like other places."
The core disciples set up the second exam as the elders discussed the current batch.
"Listen, this we will be testing your affinities to construct seals. We have provided you the resources for a Seal of Weakness. You have one hour to construct the seal. It must last for at least one minute on an opponent around your realm."
