Chapter 5: Alchemy Basics

The morning sun cast a warm glow over the Golden Lotus Sect as Li Feng and his friends gathered outside the alchemy hall. Today, they were scheduled to attend a session on the basics of alchemy, a crucial skill for any cultivator. The hall itself was a large, airy building filled with the scents of various herbs and potions.

Elder Han, the sect's master alchemist, greeted them at the entrance. "Welcome, young disciples," he said with a smile. "Today, we will explore the foundational principles of alchemy. Alchemy is not just about mixing ingredients; it is an art that requires precision, understanding, and respect for the natural world."

They followed Elder Han inside, where rows of workstations were set up with various alchemical tools and ingredients. The walls were lined with shelves holding jars of dried herbs, minerals, and other exotic materials.

"Alchemy begins with understanding the properties of each ingredient," Elder Han explained, holding up a sprig of Spirit Grass. "This humble plant, when processed correctly, can enhance one's qi and accelerate healing. However, if mishandled, it can lose its potency or even become harmful."

Li Feng and his friends watched attentively as Elder Han demonstrated the correct way to prepare the Spirit Grass. He carefully removed the leaves, crushed them into a fine powder, and mixed them with a few drops of dew collected at dawn.

"Pay attention to the details," Elder Han said, his hands moving with practiced ease. "The time of harvest, the method of preparation, and the combination of ingredients—all these factors influence the final product."

Once the mixture was ready, Elder Han heated it over a small flame, stirring gently. The liquid gradually changed color, emitting a pleasant aroma. "This is a basic healing potion," he said, pouring the liquid into small vials. "Simple, yet effective."

Elder Han handed each of them a vial. "Now it's your turn. Select your ingredients, prepare them carefully, and try to create your own healing potion."

Li Feng approached his workstation, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. He selected his ingredients—Spirit Grass, Moonlight Dew, and a pinch of Starflower petals—and began the preparation process. He followed Elder Han's instructions, focusing on each step with meticulous care.

As he crushed the Spirit Grass, he felt a sense of connection to the plant, understanding its properties and potential. Mixing the ingredients, he heated the concoction, watching as it transformed before his eyes. When the potion was ready, he carefully poured it into a vial.

"Well done, Li Feng," Elder Han said, examining the potion. "Your technique is precise, and the potion is of good quality. With practice, you will become a skilled alchemist."

Li Feng felt a surge of pride. Alchemy was a complex art, but he was eager to learn more. As he looked around, he saw his friends also immersed in their work, each creating their own potions with varying degrees of success.

Chen Yang, who had a natural affinity for alchemy, produced a potion that glowed with a soft, green light. "Not bad," he said with a grin. "Looks like I've got a knack for this."

Liu Ming and Zhang Wei, though less confident, managed to create serviceable potions under Elder Han's guidance. "It's a start," Liu Ming said, examining his vial. "There's a lot more to learn, but I'm up for the challenge."

After the practical session, Elder Han gathered them for a discussion on the history and significance of alchemy in the cultivation world. "Alchemy has been a vital part of cultivation for centuries," he said. "Great alchemists have not only advanced their own cultivation but also supported their sects with powerful elixirs and potions."

He spoke of legendary alchemists who had created elixirs of immortality, potions that could heal the gravest wounds, and concoctions that could boost one's cultivation level overnight. "Such feats are rare and require immense skill and knowledge," Elder Han said. "But with dedication and perseverance, you too can achieve great things."

The session ended with a reminder of the importance of continuous learning and practice. "Alchemy, like cultivation, is a lifelong journey," Elder Han said. "Never stop exploring, experimenting, and seeking knowledge."

As they left the alchemy hall, Li Feng felt a renewed sense of purpose. The world of alchemy was vast and filled with endless possibilities. He was determined to delve deeper into this art, to uncover its secrets and use its power to aid his cultivation journey.

The rest of the day was spent in their usual training routines, but Li Feng's mind kept drifting back to the alchemy hall. The process of creating something powerful and beneficial from simple ingredients fascinated him. He knew that mastering alchemy would be a key part of his growth as a cultivator.

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