Refining The Path

Scene 1 – Testing the Market

Li Feng spent the next few days refining his herbal mixtures. He adjusted the ratios of willow bark, bluegrass root, and river lotus, testing different brewing times and temperatures. Through careful experimentation, he found the most effective blend—a tea that improved focus without causing dizziness.

With his batch prepared, he approached Old Lin, the village elder.

"Old Lin, do you have a moment?"

The old man set down his wooden pipe. "What is it, boy?"

"I've been working on a herbal tea that sharpens the mind. Would you be willing to test it?"

Old Lin gave him a long look before taking the cup. He sipped slowly, his gaze sharpening. After a few moments, he nodded. "Not bad. This could be useful for those who need to concentrate for long hours."

Li Feng's heart pounded. "Do you think the villagers would buy it?"

Old Lin chuckled. "They might, if the price is right. More importantly, Old Zhou might be interested. If you're looking for a way to make money, this could be a start."

Scene 2 – Martial Souls and Spiritual Growth

That evening, Li Feng sat by the river, contemplating the link between martial souls and spiritual power. His theory remained unchanged—martial souls weren't just an extension of the body, but also of the spirit.

He recalled the principles of Purple Demon Eye, a technique from his past life's knowledge. It cultivated spiritual power by absorbing purple qi at dawn. But if purple qi existed, did other types of qi exist as well?

If there was morning qi, was there also night qi? Earth qi? Water qi?

He didn't have an answer yet, but he was determined to find out.

For now, he returned to his basic exercises—breathing techniques, focused meditation, and synchronized resonance with the surrounding Blue Silver Grass. Each session strengthened his connection, reinforcing his belief that spiritual growth could alter the very nature of his martial soul.

Scene 3 – Strengthening the Body

Li Feng knew that a strong mind alone wasn't enough. A weak body would limit his growth, no matter how powerful his spirit became.

Using old training methods from his past life's memories, he began implementing a daily routine—push-ups, squats, running, and endurance exercises. It was nothing fancy, just simple methods to build strength over time.

But physical strength wasn't enough. His past life memories contained knowledge of martial arts—stances, strikes, footwork, and techniques meant to enhance combat readiness. Without soul power, he needed a way to defend himself, and so he incorporated basic martial movements into his training.

He practiced low stances to build stability, shadowboxing to improve his reflexes, and controlled breathing to synchronize movement with thought. Each morning, he would wake before dawn, striking at wooden logs wrapped in straw to condition his hands and feet. Every night, he would practice balance exercises, ensuring his agility matched his growing strength.

His father noticed his training early on.

"Boy, what are you doing?"

"Strengthening my body for cultivation."

His father grunted. "Hmph. No wasted effort, then. Just don't slack on farm work."

Li Feng smiled. That was as much approval as he would get.

Scene 4 – A Chance Meeting

Two weeks later, Old Zhou returned earlier than expected.

"Back so soon?" Li Feng asked, surprised.

The merchant sighed. "Storms delayed my journey, so I figured I'd return early."

Li Feng took his chance. "I have something you might be interested in."

He handed Old Zhou a pouch of his herbal tea. The merchant inspected the contents, sniffing the aroma before brewing a small cup. After taking a few sips, his eyes widened slightly.

"This is… surprisingly good," Old Zhou admitted. "Where did you get these herbs?"

Li Feng grinned. "Gathered them myself. I figured if the rich have expensive teas, why shouldn't commoners have an affordable alternative?"

Old Zhou rubbed his chin. "You might be onto something. If you can make enough, I'll take some on my next trip. I can't promise high prices, but if it sells well, I'll pay you more."

Li Feng's heart raced. "That's more than enough."

A small opportunity, but one that could change everything.

With a steady source of income, his path forward had just become clearer.