Chapter 58: Consequences

Although Li Qi didn't mind, Old Horse seemed very ashamed and had chosen to leave on his own.

Li Qi was anxious. If Old Horse left, would he have to rely on his own two legs to find Lady Luofu?

After saying this, Shen Shuibei looked very happy, stood up, and called out to a nearby spot.

Old Horse eventually returned.

Though horses can't blush, one could see his emotions from his guilty eyes.

True to form, as a dragon steed that had already awakened its spirit, his expressions were vivid.

Li Qi didn't say much. Facing Old Horse, who came close and rubbed his face against him, Li Qi simply propped himself up, patted Old Horse's neck, and said, "No need to talk about it. Mutual help, mutual help~."

Then, he let Old Horse go back to grazing.

Next, Li Qi began the part that truly interested him—the so-called "Carp Flow Intent."

According to Shen Shuibei, this was a martial arts technique that mimicked carp movements. It was quite crude, capable of reaching only Eighth Rank at most, hence also known as an Eighth Rank technique.

This was the first time Li Qi had heard of such a classification method, but it seemed quite scientific.

There were limits to cultivation methods. Crude ones like Pai-bo Technique, when practiced to perfection, could barely produce a sliver of internal Qi, and even then, it required squeezing the body's essence. Such techniques were considered garbage, not even ranking.

Techniques like the "Zhu" book were First Rank techniques, indicating that practicing them could directly reach First Rank without detours, with all dangers having been traversed by predecessors.

However, cultivation methods were written by people. Practicing lower-rank techniques, one could still break through limits and forge their own path, though it would certainly be fraught with hardships.

A complete set of cultivation methods usually consisted of four books:

1. **Cultivation Method**: The practice itself, which was generally simple because overly complex methods weren't conducive to dissemination and learning.

2. **Classic**: This was the main part of cultivation. Without understanding the principles behind the cultivation method, one would merely be a fool practicing blindly, suitable only for being a dead soldier, not a true cultivator.

3. **Treasure Manual**: Detailed information about the treasures, resources needed for the cultivation path, various sects, traditions, and techniques that could effectively enhance one's abilities and combat prowess.

4. **Chronicle**: An encyclopedia about the cultivation path, containing numerous pieces of knowledge, taboos, adaptations, etc. According to Shen Shuibei, reading it was optional, but not reading it made one seem uncultured and unaware.

Shen Shuibei explained these points and gave an example: "For instance, your 'Zhu' book is a complete cultivation method encompassing all four aspects—cultivation method, classic, treasure manual, and chronicle. As one of the top Dao traditions in the world, Witchcraft naturally has a very comprehensive system."

"But disciples of major traditions are few. For those who start halfway or enter the cultivation path due to some extraordinary encounter, these four aspects are often incomplete. Thus, their path to pursue the Dao is exceptionally arduous. However, the Dao must not be lightly transmitted; you cannot casually share your cultivation method. Otherwise, not only will you be punished, but they will surely be cursed to death by the diviners of Witch God Mountain," Shen Shuibei warned.

In the past, many Dao traditions joined forces to spread their teachings widely, hoping everyone could pursue the Dao.

But this ultimately led to disaster—a great chaotic era sweeping across the land.

Li Qi nodded, indicating his understanding.

If knowledge is too easily obtained, chaos will ensue.

Especially with cultivation knowledge, which is not just knowledge but also a weapon.

Opening up the path of cultivation without any screening is akin to opening an armory to the public.

Some people can control themselves, while others care little about what the Dao means; they just want to use weapons like Gatling guns.

The ultimate result would only be disaster.

The Dao must not be lightly transmitted—it is undoubtedly a lesson learned in blood. Pursuers of the Dao require numerous qualities, mental fortitude, and various other requirements. If cultivation methods are casually shared, it might indeed unearth many previously overlooked geniuses.

But it would also give ordinary people weapons and powers they shouldn't possess.

With a sharp blade in hand, murderous intent arises naturally.

Humans, once possessing power beyond their mental capacity, will lose themselves.

Thus, regarding the principle that the Dao must not be lightly transmitted, Li Qi agreed.

After being reminded by Shen Shuibei, she took this matter seriously.

However, after being serious, she immediately became cute again, moving closer to Li Qi to explain the Carp Flow Intent cultivation method.