Chapter 124 - Awakened Power, Awaiting the Test

I sank deeper into the steaming water, immersed in the silent darkness of the Water Dragon Cave. The tourist crowds had long departed, leaving me alone with the ancient power of this place. I'd convinced the caretaker to let me stay after hours—a generous payment and a promise to "meditate for spiritual healing" had done the trick.

The moment the last echoing footsteps faded, I felt it—the true nature of the cave revealing itself in the stillness.

"It's not just water," I whispered to myself, watching tendrils of steam rise in the dim light. "It's a natural Qi-gathering formation."

I positioned myself directly above the bubbling center of the main pool where the earth's energy flowed strongest. Closing my eyes, I began to circulate my internal energy according to the ancient technique I'd glimpsed in my awakening. Instead of fighting against the minerals in the water, I allowed my body to harmonize with them.

The effect was immediate and intense.