Chapter 716
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Chapter 716
Bereft of my beloved wifes embrace to rest in, I shift over and sink into Tai Shans soft fur and flabby shoulder with a happy little sigh.
The Spiritual Panda is a big ol softie, both in texture and personality, unlike Guai-Guai who grumbles and grunts as I steal him away from Tai Shan to cuddle and nuzzle now that Aurie has fallen asleep in my lap. Across from us, Songs eyes narrow in adorable jealousy as she brushes Jimjam that much harder to make up for her troubling lack of pandas, but I refuse to share just yet. Besides, Tai Shan is big enough for us to both cuddle with without even having to see one another, so its not like Im monopolizing both of them. The big floof accepts my affection with indifferent aplomb, neither pleased nor displeased by my presence or Aura, an unflappable, zen-like existence whose only priorities in life are eating and sleeping. That being said, he does play favourites as he was rather concerned about the Abbot, and has now taken cute Guai Guai into his care, keeping a wary eye on his tiny cousin out of concern for his grumblings. Seeing how the red panda is in no danger from my embrace, Tai Shan continues snacking away with hypnotic ease, stripping away the bamboo bark to reveal the soft pulp underneath in one, smooth, easy motion before chomping down on his treat, his adorably chubby expression of relaxed contentment an enviable sight to someone as conflicted as I.
If every human in existence could learn to be as calm and composed as Tai Tai, then wed probably have a 100% success rate at Core Creation. Granted, theres more to Balance than just staying cool, calm, and collected, plus I havent really seen how he handles the stress of say... having all his bamboo stolen away. I kinda want to try it, partly out of curiosity but mostly because I wanna see a panda tantrum, because I see no way how that cant be hilarious. Sensing my mischievous thoughts through my leaking Aura, sweet Tai Tai watches me with a wary eye while stretching his arm out to protect his pile of uneaten bamboo, as if I wasnt the one who gave it all to him in the first place. Why is he so guarded against me? He doesnt mind letting the bears and rabbits have a nibble here and there, and he straight up shares food with Guai-Guai, so why am I treated like a sneak thief? How mean.
You shouldnt bully Tai Tai. Fiercely protective of all the floofs, Songs pique is adorable to behold, her stony facade cracking as her lips purse in a disapproving pout, one ruined by Sarankhos darling wide-eyed expression as she aggressively and affectionately nuzzles the half-cat. Somehow able to keep from smiling when faced with the prettiest kittys antics, Song rubs the sweet girls cheeks and Sends, He might take his meals elsewhere.
True, but hes just so fun to tease, I cant help myself sometimes. Responding in kind so as to keep our noise to a minimum, I snuggle in a little closer to Tai Tai and consider taking a nap, but something in Songs gaze makes me think twice. Judging by the way shes holding eye contact, its obvious she has something to say, but after a few seconds of awkward silence, I realize shes stuck in her head and unable to give voice to her thoughts. Something on your mind?
Your discussion with Teacher Du and Yan, she Sends, still holding intense eye contact that is almost too much to bear. Was that Impartation of Heavenly Energy?
I dont think so. Shrugging as I glance at Grandpa Du, seated in his wicker chair with eyes closed in quiet meditation and teacup still in hand, I Send, Im pretty sure they just found their way to normal, everyday Insight, but we wont really know until they snap out of it. I doubt there were any hi-jinks happening, even though I would love to make progress with figuring out this whole Impartation thing. When it happened with Mila, I didnt actually discuss the whole shield and light-show business with her, I just idly envisioned it all in my mind, and she somehow felt my thoughts, not seeing them exactly, but getting the general gist of it all which resulted in her firin her lazors. With Yan and Grandpa Du just now, I only talked about it, without really envisioning anything, because there wasnt really much to envision besides a cool air pressure bomb. I was just idly discussing opposing forces and the properties of pressure, mostly sharing theoretical musings Ive come up with in all my spare time spent lying in bed and unable to sleep.
Insomnia is a real bitch to contend with, especially when exhausted and suffering from migraines, because all you want to do is sleep it off, except you cant. All the sleep-aids in the world havent helped, but at least Mama Bun and the turtles are getting plenty of rest before popping over to visit me and Buddy in my Natal Palace. Which honestly is probably doing more harm than good when it comes to matters of insomnia, but seeing them play together is just too adorable to pass up on. Poor Buddy is cooped up most of the time, so I cant bring myself to deny him the few hours of play he gets every night, even if it does cut into my actual sleep.
I see. Given how were conversing through Sending, theres really no need for Song to go the extra mile and Send such an insignificant statement, which tells me shes purposely trying to keep the conversation alive. Rare coming from her, as shes someone who is happy to sit in silence with me for hours on end without making a peep, an aspect which I appreciate even more than her kind nature and lovely appearance. Say what you will about my wives and wifey, but they are nowhere near as comfortable with silence as I am. Even Lin-Lin sometimes feels the need to fill the silence with humming, so its always nice to spend hours sitting with Song without uttering a peep.
That being said, its not like I resent having to speak with her, so I give her a bit of encouragement to prod her along, hoping this minuscule bit of Chi usage doesnt aggravate my migraine. Copper for your thoughts?
...This business with opposing forces, she Sends, still wrestling with the words to use. Is there a way to utilize this with conventional Chi, or is it only limited to those with Elemental Blessings?
Huh. Good question. Taking a moment to ponder the issue, I Send, Im not sure. Theoretically, I dont see any reason as to why it would be limited to only Elemental Chi, though Im not entirely sure how to go about harnessing opposing forces using regular Chi. Maybe with Deflection? Problem is, Deflection is one of the Chi skills Im not all that proficient with, not consciously at least, so I cant really test it out.Updated from novelbIn.(c)om
Strange thing to claim given how well you wield Deflection in spars.
A statement which is only a hair short of calling me a liar. A refreshingly bold stance from Song and a sure sign shes growing more comfortable with her lack of Oaths. Those restrictions would have once denied her the ability to even think such a disrespectful thought about her master, but now she does so without blinking, and Im glad to see her adjusting so well to her newfangled freedom. Cheeks straining from a hidden smile buried in Tai-Tais soft fur, I transmit these good vibes down into the earth in hopes of reaching the groundhog colony and enticing them to come up for a gander, but after days of hard effort, there is still neither hide nor hair to be seen. Inwardly grumbling in discontent, I get back on topic and Send, Its the same problem I have with Guiding and Reverberation. Im unable to use these skills on command, but in the moment, they all just sort of happen. I want to Deflect an attack, and bam, its usually Deflected, but most of the time, Im Deflecting without really even meaning to Deflect. Seeing her lack of understanding, I make a half-hearted attempt to put things into perspective. Youve seen me using Zians whirling ring of defence right? A terrible name, but its descriptive enough, I suppose. Well, when using it, Im not exactly aiming to do anything specific besides keep my weapons moving and in front of me, but when an attack comes, Im generally well positioned to intercept without needing to think about it. I dont need to decide if I want to block, parry, or Deflect a particular attack, I just use whichever one I feel is best suited in any particular instance. Its like... running to catch a ball flying overhead. I dont know how I know where the ball will approximately land, but I can track it all the same without coming short or overshooting my target. Thats my level of understanding with Deflection, Guiding, and Reverberation, knowing without knowing.
One of the most frustrating hurdles along the Martial Path, because its just so difficult to quantify my dilemma and for others to explain their answers. Its a little like learning to ride a bike and then putting that experience into words, which is essentially keep pedalling until you stop falling. A statement which isnt wrong, but not exactly useful either. Everyone says familiarity will eventually lead to understanding, but its been six years since I first learned to Guide, and I feel like Im still stuck on the same first step. Though Ive come a long ways since in terms of applicable skill, I still have no real idea how Im doing it, which is a real bummer because it prevents me from coming up with a Keystone for ease of use. Take Guiding for example. I throw the sword and Peace just comes alive when I want it to, not in the sense of a bird given wings, but like its attached to strings I can pull at to alter the arc of its path. I cant send the sword darting left and right through the air, but I can nudge it in the right direction, and once the sword has fully stopped, I can use a combination of Chi skills to send it darting in another direction, but thats really about it.
Its not telekinesis, no matter how much I would like it to be, but stays true to its name. I guide the sword, but I cannot wholly control its flight path, not without utilizing external forces.
Then again, maybe Im asking for too much. I likened my familiarity with Chi skills to my ability to catch a ball flying overhead and track its end position without the need for complex mathematics, but even the best baseball players in the world cant really explain how they do it, so why should I expect to be able to explain Guiding, Deflection, or Reverberation? So long as it works, I should be content to use it as is, but my inner scientist hates that. I want to be able to quantify how these Chi skills work in a simple and easily understood manner, but I fear I lack the mental capabilities to do so.
...But why should I have to be the one to do it all? I delegate with inventions, so why cant I delegate other people to define Chi skills?
You should try it out for yourself, I Send, eliciting a confused look from Song, because this latest statement has nothing to do with where our conversation left off. The whole opposing forces with regular Chi. Give it a shot and experiment on your own to see where it goes. Ill try too of course, and talk to a few others about it as well, but like I said, Deflection isnt exactly my strongest skill, so our results might vary.
Songs furrowed brow makes me wonder if the saying didnt translate properly, but then she replies with, It is still strange that you think Deflection one of your weaker skills, not only because of what you can do with it, but also your Blessing.
I uh... fail to see the correlation.
Which of course brings me to my favourite question in the whole wide world. Why?
A flash of concern shows in my beloveds eyes, one which speaks of a grave concern that she might have married an idiot. Well, remember when we talked about how the Primal Elements arent really representative of the elements themselves right?
Yea, of course. They represent the myriad of unique forces in the universe broken down into four broad but distinct categories. And like that, the shoe drops and I kind of understand what Mila is getting at. Oh, so youre saying those Chi skills personify the specific fundamental forces each Element represents?
Or the Blessings themselves make use of those specific Chi skills to drive those forces more than any other. Shrugging, she adds, Difficult to say really. Historically, few Martial Warriors ever cared to share the secrets of their strengths in plain Common, so most of this is just guesswork based on records of second or third-hand observations. There appears to be a pattern, but hard work and innate talent can never be ignored as there are plenty of exceptions, such as Air Blessed Warriors who were dominant in Reinforcement or Fire Blessed Warriors who excelled in Resonance. Its not like you even need a Blessing to excel in any particular Chi skill either. Just look at Bai Qi. He has no Blessing, but is easily the number one contender for foremost Expert of Reinforcement and Amplification in all the outer provinces.
The man does hit hard, Ill give him that, managing to overpower the Wood-Blessed Shuai Jiao in a single blow. Going by the above logic, as a Wood Blessed Warrior, a Blessing which is a combination of Earth and Water, the Commander General should be adept in Reinforcement, Stability, Deflection, and Resonance, all of which would have been paramount in defending against Bai Qis attack, and yet its clear from the results that his skills werent up to snuff. Maybe its not an intuitive grasp of the skills like Song believes, I muse, trying to make sense of the information before me. It would make more sense if its just a matter of practice, with the Blessings making more use of those specific Chi Skills like you said. When I dart through the water, Im mostly using Deflection to do it, shaping the currents and smoothing their progress around me to minimize resistance. Not sure how Resonance and Water Chi go together though, but maybe my hidden Insights are how I uncovered the secret behind the Mountain Collapsing Stomp. Though it doesnt seem like much, this does give me a new thread to unravel in hopes of untangling the mysteries of the Dao, because now I suspect that my ability to manipulate Water Chi is contingent on a Chi Skill that is a blend of Deflection and Resonance.
...Does this mean that when Mila unleashes her Blessing of the Sun, which is an Esoteric Blessing that is comprised of a mix of all four Primal Elements, she is in fact utilizing a combination of all eight fundamental Chi Skills? Damn. Theres talented, and then theres Mila, and I can only hope to not fall too far behind once she finds her stride.
Truth be told, Mila begins, grumbling as she sinks into my one armed embrace to watch Guai Guai and Princess politely ignore one another entirely while snuggling side by side, I dont understand how you havent already figured most of this out. The tales of what you did out on the Azure Sea are frankly beyond belief, and Father-in-Law says that they hardly do your accomplishments justice. Hes not one to exaggerate either, not even when his precious son is involved, and if anything, Id say hes likely understating the facts quite a bit. Despite her skeptical remarks, Milas tone is filled with love and pride as she basks in my accomplishments, so head over heels for me in a way I can scarcely even believe. You raised the waves to shatter an entire ship and separate two battling armies with little more than a wave of your hand, and here you are asking me for advice regarding your Blessing. Absurd is what it is.
Idly summoning Water Chi into the palm of my hand again, I reminisce on that days events while staring at my palm, as if able to see the past in this shallow pool of water. A lot of things were made clear that day, I begin, grasping at the memories that seem to escape me even now. The properties of water and what drives it mostly, as well as how I utilize my Blessing in more ways than I previously thought. I told you about how my Devouring is contingent on my Blessing, a Talent I probably developed because I came so close to surrendering and transforming into a Demon, back when I was drifting through the rapids of Western Treasures lake. The Spectres and our foe wanted me to surrender so they could consume my soul, but in a fit of pique, I decided I would consume them instead, reversing a process that might well have already begun. I have Baledagh to thank for that, my alter-ego unwilling to become prey, because he was a Warrior born, or at least we pretended to be one. Fake it till you make it, as I always say, and Baledagh was well on his way to success.
Repressing a surge of melancholy for the little brother I never had and lost, I stifle a sigh and pretend not to see Milas look of growing concern etched across her lovely, freckled face. Anyways, it was all very enlightening and such, but while it revealed many truths to me which I should have already known, most of what I did that day wasnt really my work. I supplied the Chi and the Intent, but Blobby did all the heavy lifting, directing the currents to protect the Imperials and separate the enemies to be killed or Cleansed. To make matters worse, while I remember doing it, and knowing what I was doing in the moment, here and now, I cannot recall any specifics as to what exactly I did or how I did it.
To illustrate my point, I wave my palm about and try to make the water within do something impressive, but as expected, nothing unnatural happens. The Water Chi just sits there in my palm, like real water, wet and cool as expected. Dismissing the Water Chi with a thought, I lean into my warm, soft wife for moral support and add, Not to say I didnt gain anything from the experience. Way back when I was still muddling my way along the Martial Path and barely knew up from down, I managed to produce Water Chi by envisioning the cool metal surface of my sword drawing moisture from the warm air around it, but even then I had my doubts about whether that was what was happening. I specifically remember thinking that spitting water was fine for turtles, but as a human being, there was no way I could go around on the battlefield spewing water from my gullet to use against my foes. Drawing moisture from the air was just my way of coping with the nonsensical manner in which Chi becomes Water Chi, but I never actually drew water from the air in the first place.
And now you know that Water Chi seeped out of your sword, a concept which was somehow too abstract for you to accept less than two years ago.
The amusement in Milas voice does wonders for my spirits, because even if shes laughing at me, Im happy just to see her happy. Now however, I understand that Water Chi is not actual water, and more than understand it, I accept it. The Water Chi exists inside me, tucked away in my Core and brought out in the same manner as Chi or Aura, so now that Ive come to terms with this simple fact, Im able to summon Water Chi as I please. Grimacing at the lacklustre ability Ive now mastered, I re-summon the pool of Water Chi and wish for it to do something, anything at all, but again, no dice. Cant do anything with it though, which is kinda useless, but heres hoping. I still need to figure out Water Bullets, Water Shields, Water Tentacles, or really, anything of real use to me outside of the Azure Sea, which means I still have a long ways to go, but at least now I have a general direction to head towards.
You know, Mila says, her tone wry and mocking, You keep talking as if access to your strongest abilities being limited to the Azure Sea is some great handicap, but you seem to forget that the sea is awfully large.
I spent a grand total of about three seconds using my powers in the Azure Sea, and it cost me just about all my Chi and most of the Heavenly Energy I Cleansed from close to a hundred Demons. It also put me in a coma for about a week, and Im still suffering from the effects now almost two weeks later, so Id hardly call that an efficient use of my resources. Turns out Im a real one-pump chump as it were, a fact I would rather not become widespread. Stealing a kiss to keep Mila from arguing her next point, I add, Shipping barrels of sea water over didnt work, as that turned out to just be sea water. I probably have to be the one to go collect it, else Blobby wont come out of the sea, and while I could stay in SuiHua to practice until I understand how to use Water Chi without Blobbys assistance, my family is all here and I cant bear to be apart from them. Not to mention the minor fact that I am still the head of state and technically the highest ranking civil and military official in the outer provinces, which means I cant just run off to do my own thing whenever I damn well please.
That being said, its not like Im spending all my time idling about and indulging in lust with my wives. Ive got fingers in many different projects, not just the coveted hang-gliders Lin-Lin is so eagerly awaiting. Lishan Suzhens colleague from the south finally came through and my rubber factory is currently in business making all sorts of useful things, though I insisted my order of rubber balls in various sizes came first. I had a giant rubber ball made for Ping Ping way back when she was huge, but its gone unused ever since her ascension since its too heavy for her and all the other animals to play with. I cannot wait to see how all my floofs react to their new bouncy, floating toys, especially the bears and wildcats. Theres nothing cuter than watching a big old floof roll around with a ball, and there is nothing anyone can do to convince me otherwise. Ive also been working with Taokang Geyan to spread awareness of Panacea, borrowing the renowned Healers name to publish a primer on the basics of this newfangled Healing method for all to read. Though the stocky Westerner was none too pleased about being asked to take credit for work he did not do, he came around to the idea once he realized my life would be in danger if my name were attached to the project.
At which point Geyan couldnt agree any faster. As a man without a province to call home anymore, his actions in sharing Panacea could be seen as an altruistic act tainted by thoughts of vengeance. More resilient Warriors meant a better chance of retaking the West, so whether he compiled his information after the existence of Panacea became known to the world, or if hed been hiding this secret all along, it wouldnt matter because Geyan has nothing to lose. I hate putting someone else in danger to keep myself safe, but as the foremost Healer of the Western Province, Im hoping the powers that be leave him alone on the basis that if he had any other useful knowledge to share, he would have long since done so without prompting.
To keep him safe, Ive added Geyan to Gao Changgongs retinue and tasked the former Major General to keep the Healer alive, while simultaneously having MuYang keep an eye on them both. Trust, but verify, thats my motto now.
Theres also the matter of raising morale, reinforcing the Districts, and rebuilding the Central Citadel, as well as improving the defences not just at the other two Citadels, but all along the wall itself. The man-made river running all along the Western Border is slated to be widened at all fronts, an idea I came up with after the barrels of sea water turned out to be water, rather than bound Chi Tea. I figured that since the water was flowing in from the Azure Sea, I could then use the river water the same way I use the sea water, but alas, Blobby refused to respond to my summons no matter where I stood in the river or how long I called for him. It raises an interesting question about water, in that if all of the worlds water is connected, what difference is there in stream water from river water, or river water from sea water, assuming its all fresh and drinkable? More to the point, when does the water from the Azure Sea turn into water from the man-made river? At the mouth of the river by SuiHua harbour? Or somewhere before or after that? Is there any difference? What about rain falling into the Azure Sea? Does that water become a part of Blobby, only to split away once it evaporates and rises up into the clouds again? Also, why did Blobby merge with the sea, but refuse to merge with my bathwater? And why was Ping Ping so intent on drinking my bathwater? Neither turtle seems to care for my dirty wash water anymore, no matter how much I meditate and channel into it, nor do any of the animals show any reaction to it either, not that they ever did. It would appear that somehow, Im no longer able to turn physical Water into Chi-Tea, which is odd to say the least, and ruins my plans of mass producing a countermeasure to Demon Ichor and Anathema.
I have so many more questions and concerns worth delving into, but I have top people working on most of those things, so I have nothing to do besides work on my own issues. Falling silent to focus on the Water Chi in my hand, I Visualize the clear liquid swirling in a clockwise motion and exert my Chi to Deflect it in that same direction, but the Water Chi remains still as ever. Undeterred, I keep up my efforts until the water wobbles ever so slightly, but my throbbing headache breaks my concentration and leaves me reeling with regret, as I am not yet recovered from the battle against Huanhuzis pirate fleet. I overused my metaphysical circulatory system, that still unnamed and unseen mechanism through which I channel Chi, and now it feels like no matter how full my Core is, I can only squeeze a trickle of Chi out to use as I please. Not an unheard of ailment according to Taduk, but all I can do is wait until I recover, which could be a matter of days or weeks. Thankfully, weve thus far kept things under wraps and Ive been sparring with other Experts and Peak Experts as normal, so no one should be the wiser as to my weakened condition, but heres hoping Zhen Shi sits still until Ive worked out all the kinks and am ready to retake the West.
But even if he appears on the battlefield today, I would still take up Peace, Tranquility, and Unity to stand against him, because as Legate of the Outer Provinces, these are my lands and my people, so I will defend them to the last.
Also, fuck Zhen Shi and everything about him. I hate that guy, and spite is totally a valid a motivation.
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Chapter 716
Bereft of my beloved wifes embrace to rest in, I shift over and sink into Tai Shans soft fur and flabby shoulder with a happy little sigh.
The Spiritual Panda is a big ol softie, both in texture and personality, unlike Guai-Guai who grumbles and grunts as I steal him away from Tai Shan to cuddle and nuzzle now that Aurie has fallen asleep in my lap. Across from us, Songs eyes narrow in adorable jealousy as she brushes Jimjam that much harder to make up for her troubling lack of pandas, but I refuse to share just yet. Besides, Tai Shan is big enough for us to both cuddle with without even having to see one another, so its not like Im monopolizing both of them. The big floof accepts my affection with indifferent aplomb, neither pleased nor displeased by my presence or Aura, an unflappable, zen-like existence whose only priorities in life are eating and sleeping. That being said, he does play favourites as he was rather concerned about the Abbot, and has now taken cute Guai Guai into his care, keeping a wary eye on his tiny cousin out of concern for his grumblings. Seeing how the red panda is in no danger from my embrace, Tai Shan continues snacking away with hypnotic ease, stripping away the bamboo bark to reveal the soft pulp underneath in one, smooth, easy motion before chomping down on his treat, his adorably chubby expression of relaxed contentment an enviable sight to someone as conflicted as I.
If every human in existence could learn to be as calm and composed as Tai Tai, then wed probably have a 100% success rate at Core Creation. Granted, theres more to Balance than just staying cool, calm, and collected, plus I havent really seen how he handles the stress of say... having all his bamboo stolen away. I kinda want to try it, partly out of curiosity but mostly because I wanna see a panda tantrum, because I see no way how that cant be hilarious. Sensing my mischievous thoughts through my leaking Aura, sweet Tai Tai watches me with a wary eye while stretching his arm out to protect his pile of uneaten bamboo, as if I wasnt the one who gave it all to him in the first place. Why is he so guarded against me? He doesnt mind letting the bears and rabbits have a nibble here and there, and he straight up shares food with Guai-Guai, so why am I treated like a sneak thief? How mean.
You shouldnt bully Tai Tai. Fiercely protective of all the floofs, Songs pique is adorable to behold, her stony facade cracking as her lips purse in a disapproving pout, one ruined by Sarankhos darling wide-eyed expression as she aggressively and affectionately nuzzles the half-cat. Somehow able to keep from smiling when faced with the prettiest kittys antics, Song rubs the sweet girls cheeks and Sends, He might take his meals elsewhere.
True, but hes just so fun to tease, I cant help myself sometimes. Responding in kind so as to keep our noise to a minimum, I snuggle in a little closer to Tai Tai and consider taking a nap, but something in Songs gaze makes me think twice. Judging by the way shes holding eye contact, its obvious she has something to say, but after a few seconds of awkward silence, I realize shes stuck in her head and unable to give voice to her thoughts. Something on your mind?
Your discussion with Teacher Du and Yan, she Sends, still holding intense eye contact that is almost too much to bear. Was that Impartation of Heavenly Energy?
I dont think so. Shrugging as I glance at Grandpa Du, seated in his wicker chair with eyes closed in quiet meditation and teacup still in hand, I Send, Im pretty sure they just found their way to normal, everyday Insight, but we wont really know until they snap out of it. I doubt there were any hi-jinks happening, even though I would love to make progress with figuring out this whole Impartation thing. When it happened with Mila, I didnt actually discuss the whole shield and light-show business with her, I just idly envisioned it all in my mind, and she somehow felt my thoughts, not seeing them exactly, but getting the general gist of it all which resulted in her firin her lazors. With Yan and Grandpa Du just now, I only talked about it, without really envisioning anything, because there wasnt really much to envision besides a cool air pressure bomb. I was just idly discussing opposing forces and the properties of pressure, mostly sharing theoretical musings Ive come up with in all my spare time spent lying in bed and unable to sleep.
Insomnia is a real bitch to contend with, especially when exhausted and suffering from migraines, because all you want to do is sleep it off, except you cant. All the sleep-aids in the world havent helped, but at least Mama Bun and the turtles are getting plenty of rest before popping over to visit me and Buddy in my Natal Palace. Which honestly is probably doing more harm than good when it comes to matters of insomnia, but seeing them play together is just too adorable to pass up on. Poor Buddy is cooped up most of the time, so I cant bring myself to deny him the few hours of play he gets every night, even if it does cut into my actual sleep.
I see. Given how were conversing through Sending, theres really no need for Song to go the extra mile and Send such an insignificant statement, which tells me shes purposely trying to keep the conversation alive. Rare coming from her, as shes someone who is happy to sit in silence with me for hours on end without making a peep, an aspect which I appreciate even more than her kind nature and lovely appearance. Say what you will about my wives and wifey, but they are nowhere near as comfortable with silence as I am. Even Lin-Lin sometimes feels the need to fill the silence with humming, so its always nice to spend hours sitting with Song without uttering a peep.
That being said, its not like I resent having to speak with her, so I give her a bit of encouragement to prod her along, hoping this minuscule bit of Chi usage doesnt aggravate my migraine. Copper for your thoughts?
...This business with opposing forces, she Sends, still wrestling with the words to use. Is there a way to utilize this with conventional Chi, or is it only limited to those with Elemental Blessings?
Huh. Good question. Taking a moment to ponder the issue, I Send, Im not sure. Theoretically, I dont see any reason as to why it would be limited to only Elemental Chi, though Im not entirely sure how to go about harnessing opposing forces using regular Chi. Maybe with Deflection? Problem is, Deflection is one of the Chi skills Im not all that proficient with, not consciously at least, so I cant really test it out.Updated from novelbIn.(c)om
Strange thing to claim given how well you wield Deflection in spars.
A statement which is only a hair short of calling me a liar. A refreshingly bold stance from Song and a sure sign shes growing more comfortable with her lack of Oaths. Those restrictions would have once denied her the ability to even think such a disrespectful thought about her master, but now she does so without blinking, and Im glad to see her adjusting so well to her newfangled freedom. Cheeks straining from a hidden smile buried in Tai-Tais soft fur, I transmit these good vibes down into the earth in hopes of reaching the groundhog colony and enticing them to come up for a gander, but after days of hard effort, there is still neither hide nor hair to be seen. Inwardly grumbling in discontent, I get back on topic and Send, Its the same problem I have with Guiding and Reverberation. Im unable to use these skills on command, but in the moment, they all just sort of happen. I want to Deflect an attack, and bam, its usually Deflected, but most of the time, Im Deflecting without really even meaning to Deflect. Seeing her lack of understanding, I make a half-hearted attempt to put things into perspective. Youve seen me using Zians whirling ring of defence right? A terrible name, but its descriptive enough, I suppose. Well, when using it, Im not exactly aiming to do anything specific besides keep my weapons moving and in front of me, but when an attack comes, Im generally well positioned to intercept without needing to think about it. I dont need to decide if I want to block, parry, or Deflect a particular attack, I just use whichever one I feel is best suited in any particular instance. Its like... running to catch a ball flying overhead. I dont know how I know where the ball will approximately land, but I can track it all the same without coming short or overshooting my target. Thats my level of understanding with Deflection, Guiding, and Reverberation, knowing without knowing.
One of the most frustrating hurdles along the Martial Path, because its just so difficult to quantify my dilemma and for others to explain their answers. Its a little like learning to ride a bike and then putting that experience into words, which is essentially keep pedalling until you stop falling. A statement which isnt wrong, but not exactly useful either. Everyone says familiarity will eventually lead to understanding, but its been six years since I first learned to Guide, and I feel like Im still stuck on the same first step. Though Ive come a long ways since in terms of applicable skill, I still have no real idea how Im doing it, which is a real bummer because it prevents me from coming up with a Keystone for ease of use. Take Guiding for example. I throw the sword and Peace just comes alive when I want it to, not in the sense of a bird given wings, but like its attached to strings I can pull at to alter the arc of its path. I cant send the sword darting left and right through the air, but I can nudge it in the right direction, and once the sword has fully stopped, I can use a combination of Chi skills to send it darting in another direction, but thats really about it.
Its not telekinesis, no matter how much I would like it to be, but stays true to its name. I guide the sword, but I cannot wholly control its flight path, not without utilizing external forces.
Then again, maybe Im asking for too much. I likened my familiarity with Chi skills to my ability to catch a ball flying overhead and track its end position without the need for complex mathematics, but even the best baseball players in the world cant really explain how they do it, so why should I expect to be able to explain Guiding, Deflection, or Reverberation? So long as it works, I should be content to use it as is, but my inner scientist hates that. I want to be able to quantify how these Chi skills work in a simple and easily understood manner, but I fear I lack the mental capabilities to do so.
...But why should I have to be the one to do it all? I delegate with inventions, so why cant I delegate other people to define Chi skills?
You should try it out for yourself, I Send, eliciting a confused look from Song, because this latest statement has nothing to do with where our conversation left off. The whole opposing forces with regular Chi. Give it a shot and experiment on your own to see where it goes. Ill try too of course, and talk to a few others about it as well, but like I said, Deflection isnt exactly my strongest skill, so our results might vary.
Songs furrowed brow makes me wonder if the saying didnt translate properly, but then she replies with, It is still strange that you think Deflection one of your weaker skills, not only because of what you can do with it, but also your Blessing.
I uh... fail to see the correlation.
Which of course brings me to my favourite question in the whole wide world. Why?
A flash of concern shows in my beloveds eyes, one which speaks of a grave concern that she might have married an idiot. Well, remember when we talked about how the Primal Elements arent really representative of the elements themselves right?
Yea, of course. They represent the myriad of unique forces in the universe broken down into four broad but distinct categories. And like that, the shoe drops and I kind of understand what Mila is getting at. Oh, so youre saying those Chi skills personify the specific fundamental forces each Element represents?
Or the Blessings themselves make use of those specific Chi skills to drive those forces more than any other. Shrugging, she adds, Difficult to say really. Historically, few Martial Warriors ever cared to share the secrets of their strengths in plain Common, so most of this is just guesswork based on records of second or third-hand observations. There appears to be a pattern, but hard work and innate talent can never be ignored as there are plenty of exceptions, such as Air Blessed Warriors who were dominant in Reinforcement or Fire Blessed Warriors who excelled in Resonance. Its not like you even need a Blessing to excel in any particular Chi skill either. Just look at Bai Qi. He has no Blessing, but is easily the number one contender for foremost Expert of Reinforcement and Amplification in all the outer provinces.
The man does hit hard, Ill give him that, managing to overpower the Wood-Blessed Shuai Jiao in a single blow. Going by the above logic, as a Wood Blessed Warrior, a Blessing which is a combination of Earth and Water, the Commander General should be adept in Reinforcement, Stability, Deflection, and Resonance, all of which would have been paramount in defending against Bai Qis attack, and yet its clear from the results that his skills werent up to snuff. Maybe its not an intuitive grasp of the skills like Song believes, I muse, trying to make sense of the information before me. It would make more sense if its just a matter of practice, with the Blessings making more use of those specific Chi Skills like you said. When I dart through the water, Im mostly using Deflection to do it, shaping the currents and smoothing their progress around me to minimize resistance. Not sure how Resonance and Water Chi go together though, but maybe my hidden Insights are how I uncovered the secret behind the Mountain Collapsing Stomp. Though it doesnt seem like much, this does give me a new thread to unravel in hopes of untangling the mysteries of the Dao, because now I suspect that my ability to manipulate Water Chi is contingent on a Chi Skill that is a blend of Deflection and Resonance.
...Does this mean that when Mila unleashes her Blessing of the Sun, which is an Esoteric Blessing that is comprised of a mix of all four Primal Elements, she is in fact utilizing a combination of all eight fundamental Chi Skills? Damn. Theres talented, and then theres Mila, and I can only hope to not fall too far behind once she finds her stride.
Truth be told, Mila begins, grumbling as she sinks into my one armed embrace to watch Guai Guai and Princess politely ignore one another entirely while snuggling side by side, I dont understand how you havent already figured most of this out. The tales of what you did out on the Azure Sea are frankly beyond belief, and Father-in-Law says that they hardly do your accomplishments justice. Hes not one to exaggerate either, not even when his precious son is involved, and if anything, Id say hes likely understating the facts quite a bit. Despite her skeptical remarks, Milas tone is filled with love and pride as she basks in my accomplishments, so head over heels for me in a way I can scarcely even believe. You raised the waves to shatter an entire ship and separate two battling armies with little more than a wave of your hand, and here you are asking me for advice regarding your Blessing. Absurd is what it is.
Idly summoning Water Chi into the palm of my hand again, I reminisce on that days events while staring at my palm, as if able to see the past in this shallow pool of water. A lot of things were made clear that day, I begin, grasping at the memories that seem to escape me even now. The properties of water and what drives it mostly, as well as how I utilize my Blessing in more ways than I previously thought. I told you about how my Devouring is contingent on my Blessing, a Talent I probably developed because I came so close to surrendering and transforming into a Demon, back when I was drifting through the rapids of Western Treasures lake. The Spectres and our foe wanted me to surrender so they could consume my soul, but in a fit of pique, I decided I would consume them instead, reversing a process that might well have already begun. I have Baledagh to thank for that, my alter-ego unwilling to become prey, because he was a Warrior born, or at least we pretended to be one. Fake it till you make it, as I always say, and Baledagh was well on his way to success.
Repressing a surge of melancholy for the little brother I never had and lost, I stifle a sigh and pretend not to see Milas look of growing concern etched across her lovely, freckled face. Anyways, it was all very enlightening and such, but while it revealed many truths to me which I should have already known, most of what I did that day wasnt really my work. I supplied the Chi and the Intent, but Blobby did all the heavy lifting, directing the currents to protect the Imperials and separate the enemies to be killed or Cleansed. To make matters worse, while I remember doing it, and knowing what I was doing in the moment, here and now, I cannot recall any specifics as to what exactly I did or how I did it.
To illustrate my point, I wave my palm about and try to make the water within do something impressive, but as expected, nothing unnatural happens. The Water Chi just sits there in my palm, like real water, wet and cool as expected. Dismissing the Water Chi with a thought, I lean into my warm, soft wife for moral support and add, Not to say I didnt gain anything from the experience. Way back when I was still muddling my way along the Martial Path and barely knew up from down, I managed to produce Water Chi by envisioning the cool metal surface of my sword drawing moisture from the warm air around it, but even then I had my doubts about whether that was what was happening. I specifically remember thinking that spitting water was fine for turtles, but as a human being, there was no way I could go around on the battlefield spewing water from my gullet to use against my foes. Drawing moisture from the air was just my way of coping with the nonsensical manner in which Chi becomes Water Chi, but I never actually drew water from the air in the first place.
And now you know that Water Chi seeped out of your sword, a concept which was somehow too abstract for you to accept less than two years ago.
The amusement in Milas voice does wonders for my spirits, because even if shes laughing at me, Im happy just to see her happy. Now however, I understand that Water Chi is not actual water, and more than understand it, I accept it. The Water Chi exists inside me, tucked away in my Core and brought out in the same manner as Chi or Aura, so now that Ive come to terms with this simple fact, Im able to summon Water Chi as I please. Grimacing at the lacklustre ability Ive now mastered, I re-summon the pool of Water Chi and wish for it to do something, anything at all, but again, no dice. Cant do anything with it though, which is kinda useless, but heres hoping. I still need to figure out Water Bullets, Water Shields, Water Tentacles, or really, anything of real use to me outside of the Azure Sea, which means I still have a long ways to go, but at least now I have a general direction to head towards.
You know, Mila says, her tone wry and mocking, You keep talking as if access to your strongest abilities being limited to the Azure Sea is some great handicap, but you seem to forget that the sea is awfully large.
I spent a grand total of about three seconds using my powers in the Azure Sea, and it cost me just about all my Chi and most of the Heavenly Energy I Cleansed from close to a hundred Demons. It also put me in a coma for about a week, and Im still suffering from the effects now almost two weeks later, so Id hardly call that an efficient use of my resources. Turns out Im a real one-pump chump as it were, a fact I would rather not become widespread. Stealing a kiss to keep Mila from arguing her next point, I add, Shipping barrels of sea water over didnt work, as that turned out to just be sea water. I probably have to be the one to go collect it, else Blobby wont come out of the sea, and while I could stay in SuiHua to practice until I understand how to use Water Chi without Blobbys assistance, my family is all here and I cant bear to be apart from them. Not to mention the minor fact that I am still the head of state and technically the highest ranking civil and military official in the outer provinces, which means I cant just run off to do my own thing whenever I damn well please.
That being said, its not like Im spending all my time idling about and indulging in lust with my wives. Ive got fingers in many different projects, not just the coveted hang-gliders Lin-Lin is so eagerly awaiting. Lishan Suzhens colleague from the south finally came through and my rubber factory is currently in business making all sorts of useful things, though I insisted my order of rubber balls in various sizes came first. I had a giant rubber ball made for Ping Ping way back when she was huge, but its gone unused ever since her ascension since its too heavy for her and all the other animals to play with. I cannot wait to see how all my floofs react to their new bouncy, floating toys, especially the bears and wildcats. Theres nothing cuter than watching a big old floof roll around with a ball, and there is nothing anyone can do to convince me otherwise. Ive also been working with Taokang Geyan to spread awareness of Panacea, borrowing the renowned Healers name to publish a primer on the basics of this newfangled Healing method for all to read. Though the stocky Westerner was none too pleased about being asked to take credit for work he did not do, he came around to the idea once he realized my life would be in danger if my name were attached to the project.
At which point Geyan couldnt agree any faster. As a man without a province to call home anymore, his actions in sharing Panacea could be seen as an altruistic act tainted by thoughts of vengeance. More resilient Warriors meant a better chance of retaking the West, so whether he compiled his information after the existence of Panacea became known to the world, or if hed been hiding this secret all along, it wouldnt matter because Geyan has nothing to lose. I hate putting someone else in danger to keep myself safe, but as the foremost Healer of the Western Province, Im hoping the powers that be leave him alone on the basis that if he had any other useful knowledge to share, he would have long since done so without prompting.
To keep him safe, Ive added Geyan to Gao Changgongs retinue and tasked the former Major General to keep the Healer alive, while simultaneously having MuYang keep an eye on them both. Trust, but verify, thats my motto now.
Theres also the matter of raising morale, reinforcing the Districts, and rebuilding the Central Citadel, as well as improving the defences not just at the other two Citadels, but all along the wall itself. The man-made river running all along the Western Border is slated to be widened at all fronts, an idea I came up with after the barrels of sea water turned out to be water, rather than bound Chi Tea. I figured that since the water was flowing in from the Azure Sea, I could then use the river water the same way I use the sea water, but alas, Blobby refused to respond to my summons no matter where I stood in the river or how long I called for him. It raises an interesting question about water, in that if all of the worlds water is connected, what difference is there in stream water from river water, or river water from sea water, assuming its all fresh and drinkable? More to the point, when does the water from the Azure Sea turn into water from the man-made river? At the mouth of the river by SuiHua harbour? Or somewhere before or after that? Is there any difference? What about rain falling into the Azure Sea? Does that water become a part of Blobby, only to split away once it evaporates and rises up into the clouds again? Also, why did Blobby merge with the sea, but refuse to merge with my bathwater? And why was Ping Ping so intent on drinking my bathwater? Neither turtle seems to care for my dirty wash water anymore, no matter how much I meditate and channel into it, nor do any of the animals show any reaction to it either, not that they ever did. It would appear that somehow, Im no longer able to turn physical Water into Chi-Tea, which is odd to say the least, and ruins my plans of mass producing a countermeasure to Demon Ichor and Anathema.
I have so many more questions and concerns worth delving into, but I have top people working on most of those things, so I have nothing to do besides work on my own issues. Falling silent to focus on the Water Chi in my hand, I Visualize the clear liquid swirling in a clockwise motion and exert my Chi to Deflect it in that same direction, but the Water Chi remains still as ever. Undeterred, I keep up my efforts until the water wobbles ever so slightly, but my throbbing headache breaks my concentration and leaves me reeling with regret, as I am not yet recovered from the battle against Huanhuzis pirate fleet. I overused my metaphysical circulatory system, that still unnamed and unseen mechanism through which I channel Chi, and now it feels like no matter how full my Core is, I can only squeeze a trickle of Chi out to use as I please. Not an unheard of ailment according to Taduk, but all I can do is wait until I recover, which could be a matter of days or weeks. Thankfully, weve thus far kept things under wraps and Ive been sparring with other Experts and Peak Experts as normal, so no one should be the wiser as to my weakened condition, but heres hoping Zhen Shi sits still until Ive worked out all the kinks and am ready to retake the West.
But even if he appears on the battlefield today, I would still take up Peace, Tranquility, and Unity to stand against him, because as Legate of the Outer Provinces, these are my lands and my people, so I will defend them to the last.
Also, fuck Zhen Shi and everything about him. I hate that guy, and spite is totally a valid a motivation.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 716Bereft of my beloved wifes embrace to rest in, I shift over and sink into Tai Shans soft fur and flabby shoulder with a happy little sigh.The Spiritual Panda is a big ol softie, both in texture and personality, unlike Guai-Guai who grumbles and grunts as I steal him away from Tai Shan to cuddle and nuzzle now that Aurie has fallen asleep in my lap. Across from us, Songs eyes narrow in adorable jealousy as she brushes Jimjam that much harder to make up for her troubling lack of pandas, but I refuse to share just yet. Besides, Tai Shan is big enough for us to both cuddle with without even having to see one another, so its not like Im monopolizing both of them. The big floof accepts my affection with indifferent aplomb, neither pleased nor displeased by my presence or Aura, an unflappable, zen-like existence whose only priorities in life are eating and sleeping. That being said, he does play favourites as he was rather concerned about the Abbot, and has now taken cute Guai Guai into his care, keeping a wary eye on his tiny cousin out of concern for his grumblings. Seeing how the red panda is in no danger from my embrace, Tai Shan continues snacking away with hypnotic ease, stripping away the bamboo bark to reveal the soft pulp underneath in one, smooth, easy motion before chomping down on his treat, his adorably chubby expression of relaxed contentment an enviable sight to someone as conflicted as I.If every human in existence could learn to be as calm and composed as Tai Tai, then wed probably have a 100% success rate at Core Creation. Granted, theres more to Balance than just staying cool, calm, and collected, plus I havent really seen how he handles the stress of say... having all his bamboo stolen away. I kinda want to try it, partly out of curiosity but mostly because I wanna see a panda tantrum, because I see no way how that cant be hilarious. Sensing my mischievous thoughts through my leaking Aura, sweet Tai Tai watches me with a wary eye while stretching his arm out to protect his pile of uneaten bamboo, as if I wasnt the one who gave it all to him in the first place. Why is he so guarded against me? He doesnt mind letting the bears and rabbits have a nibble here and there, and he straight up shares food with Guai-Guai, so why am I treated like a sneak thief? How mean.You shouldnt bully Tai Tai. Fiercely protective of all the floofs, Songs pique is adorable to behold, her stony facade cracking as her lips purse in a disapproving pout, one ruined by Sarankhos darling wide-eyed expression as she aggressively and affectionately nuzzles the half-cat. Somehow able to keep from smiling when faced with the prettiest kittys antics, Song rubs the sweet girls cheeks and Sends, He might take his meals elsewhere.True, but hes just so fun to tease, I cant help myself sometimes. Responding in kind so as to keep our noise to a minimum, I snuggle in a little closer to Tai Tai and consider taking a nap, but something in Songs gaze makes me think twice. Judging by the way shes holding eye contact, its obvious she has something to say, but after a few seconds of awkward silence, I realize shes stuck in her head and unable to give voice to her thoughts. Something on your mind?Your discussion with Teacher Du and Yan, she Sends, still holding intense eye contact that is almost too much to bear. Was that Impartation of Heavenly Energy?I dont think so. Shrugging as I glance at Grandpa Du, seated in his wicker chair with eyes closed in quiet meditation and teacup still in hand, I Send, Im pretty sure they just found their way to normal, everyday Insight, but we wont really know until they snap out of it. I doubt there were any hi-jinks happening, even though I would love to make progress with figuring out this whole Impartation thing. When it happened with Mila, I didnt actually discuss the whole shield and light-show business with her, I just idly envisioned it all in my mind, and she somehow felt my thoughts, not seeing them exactly, but getting the general gist of it all which resulted in her firin her lazors. With Yan and Grandpa Du just now, I only talked about it, without really envisioning anything, because there wasnt really much to envision besides a cool air pressure bomb. I was just idly discussing opposing forces and the properties of pressure, mostly sharing theoretical musings Ive come up with in all my spare time spent lying in bed and unable to sleep.Insomnia is a real bitch to contend with, especially when exhausted and suffering from migraines, because all you want to do is sleep it off, except you cant. All the sleep-aids in the world havent helped, but at least Mama Bun and the turtles are getting plenty of rest before popping over to visit me and Buddy in my Natal Palace. Which honestly is probably doing more harm than good when it comes to matters of insomnia, but seeing them play together is just too adorable to pass up on. Poor Buddy is cooped up most of the time, so I cant bring myself to deny him the few hours of play he gets every night, even if it does cut into my actual sleep.I see. Given how were conversing through Sending, theres really no need for Song to go the extra mile and Send such an insignificant statement, which tells me shes purposely trying to keep the conversation alive. Rare coming from her, as shes someone who is happy to sit in silence with me for hours on end without making a peep, an aspect which I appreciate even more than her kind nature and lovely appearance. Say what you will about my wives and wifey, but they are nowhere near as comfortable with silence as I am. Even Lin-Lin sometimes feels the need to fill the silence with humming, so its always nice to spend hours sitting with Song without uttering a peep.That being said, its not like I resent having to speak with her, so I give her a bit of encouragement to prod her along, hoping this minuscule bit of Chi usage doesnt aggravate my migraine. Copper for your thoughts?...This business with opposing forces, she Sends, still wrestling with the words to use. Is there a way to utilize this with conventional Chi, or is it only limited to those with Elemental Blessings?Huh. Good question. Taking a moment to ponder the issue, I Send, Im not sure. Theoretically, I dont see any reason as to why it would be limited to only Elemental Chi, though Im not entirely sure how to go about harnessing opposing forces using regular Chi. Maybe with Deflection? Problem is, Deflection is one of the Chi skills Im not all that proficient with, not consciously at least, so I cant really test it out.Updated from novelbIn.comStrange thing to claim given how well you wield Deflection in spars.A statement which is only a hair short of calling me a liar. A refreshingly bold stance from Song and a sure sign shes growing more comfortable with her lack of Oaths. Those restrictions would have once denied her the ability to even think such a disrespectful thought about her master, but now she does so without blinking, and Im glad to see her adjusting so well to her newfangled freedom. Cheeks straining from a hidden smile buried in Tai-Tais soft fur, I transmit these good vibes down into the earth in hopes of reaching the groundhog colony and enticing them to come up for a gander, but after days of hard effort, there is still neither hide nor hair to be seen. Inwardly grumbling in discontent, I get back on topic and Send, Its the same problem I have with Guiding and Reverberation. Im unable to use these skills on command, but in the moment, they all just sort of happen. I want to Deflect an attack, and bam, its usually Deflected, but most of the time, Im Deflecting without really even meaning to Deflect. Seeing her lack of understanding, I make a half-hearted attempt to put things into perspective. Youve seen me using Zians whirling ring of defence right? A terrible name, but its descriptive enough, I suppose. Well, when using it, Im not exactly aiming to do anything specific besides keep my weapons moving and in front of me, but when an attack comes, Im generally well positioned to intercept without needing to think about it. I dont need to decide if I want to block, parry, or Deflect a particular attack, I just use whichever one I feel is best suited in any particular instance. Its like... running to catch a ball flying overhead. I dont know how I know where the ball will approximately land, but I can track it all the same without coming short or overshooting my target. Thats my level of understanding with Deflection, Guiding, and Reverberation, knowing without knowing.One of the most frustrating hurdles along the Martial Path, because its just so difficult to quantify my dilemma and for others to explain their answers. Its a little like learning to ride a bike and then putting that experience into words, which is essentially keep pedalling until you stop falling. A statement which isnt wrong, but not exactly useful either. Everyone says familiarity will eventually lead to understanding, but its been six years since I first learned to Guide, and I feel like Im still stuck on the same first step. Though Ive come a long ways since in terms of applicable skill, I still have no real idea how Im doing it, which is a real bummer because it prevents me from coming up with a Keystone for ease of use. Take Guiding for example. I throw the sword and Peace just comes alive when I want it to, not in the sense of a bird given wings, but like its attached to strings I can pull at to alter the arc of its path. I cant send the sword darting left and right through the air, but I can nudge it in the right direction, and once the sword has fully stopped, I can use a combination of Chi skills to send it darting in another direction, but thats really about it.Its not telekinesis, no matter how much I would like it to be, but stays true to its name. I guide the sword, but I cannot wholly control its flight path, not without utilizing external forces.Then again, maybe Im asking for too much. I likened my familiarity with Chi skills to my ability to catch a ball flying overhead and track its end position without the need for complex mathematics, but even the best baseball players in the world cant really explain how they do it, so why should I expect to be able to explain Guiding, Deflection, or Reverberation? So long as it works, I should be content to use it as is, but my inner scientist hates that. I want to be able to quantify how these Chi skills work in a simple and easily understood manner, but I fear I lack the mental capabilities to do so....But why should I have to be the one to do it all? I delegate with inventions, so why cant I delegate other people to define Chi skills?You should try it out for yourself, I Send, eliciting a confused look from Song, because this latest statement has nothing to do with where our conversation left off. The whole opposing forces with regular Chi. Give it a shot and experiment on your own to see where it goes. Ill try too of course, and talk to a few others about it as well, but like I said, Deflection isnt exactly my strongest skill, so our results might vary.Songs furrowed brow makes me wonder if the saying didnt translate properly, but then she replies with, It is still strange that you think Deflection one of your weaker skills, not only because of what you can do with it, but also your Blessing.I uh... fail to see the correlation.Which of course brings me to my favourite question in the whole wide world. Why?A flash of concern shows in my beloveds eyes, one which speaks of a grave concern that she might have married an idiot. Well, remember when we talked about how the Primal Elements arent really representative of the elements themselves right?Yea, of course. They represent the myriad of unique forces in the universe broken down into four broad but distinct categories. And like that, the shoe drops and I kind of understand what Mila is getting at. Oh, so youre saying those Chi skills personify the specific fundamental forces each Element represents?Or the Blessings themselves make use of those specific Chi skills to drive those forces more than any other. Shrugging, she adds, Difficult to say really. Historically, few Martial Warriors ever cared to share the secrets of their strengths in plain Common, so most of this is just guesswork based on records of second or third-hand observations. There appears to be a pattern, but hard work and innate talent can never be ignored as there are plenty of exceptions, such as Air Blessed Warriors who were dominant in Reinforcement or Fire Blessed Warriors who excelled in Resonance. Its not like you even need a Blessing to excel in any particular Chi skill either. Just look at Bai Qi. He has no Blessing, but is easily the number one contender for foremost Expert of Reinforcement and Amplification in all the outer provinces.The man does hit hard, Ill give him that, managing to overpower the Wood-Blessed Shuai Jiao in a single blow. Going by the above logic, as a Wood Blessed Warrior, a Blessing which is a combination of Earth and Water, the Commander General should be adept in Reinforcement, Stability, Deflection, and Resonance, all of which would have been paramount in defending against Bai Qis attack, and yet its clear from the results that his skills werent up to snuff. Maybe its not an intuitive grasp of the skills like Song believes, I muse, trying to make sense of the information before me. It would make more sense if its just a matter of practice, with the Blessings making more use of those specific Chi Skills like you said. When I dart through the water, Im mostly using Deflection to do it, shaping the currents and smoothing their progress around me to minimize resistance. Not sure how Resonance and Water Chi go together though, but maybe my hidden Insights are how I uncovered the secret behind the Mountain Collapsing Stomp. Though it doesnt seem like much, this does give me a new thread to unravel in hopes of untangling the mysteries of the Dao, because now I suspect that my ability to manipulate Water Chi is contingent on a Chi Skill that is a blend of Deflection and Resonance....Does this mean that when Mila unleashes her Blessing of the Sun, which is an Esoteric Blessing that is comprised of a mix of all four Primal Elements, she is in fact utilizing a combination of all eight fundamental Chi Skills? Damn. Theres talented, and then theres Mila, and I can only hope to not fall too far behind once she finds her stride.Truth be told, Mila begins, grumbling as she sinks into my one armed embrace to watch Guai Guai and Princess politely ignore one another entirely while snuggling side by side, I dont understand how you havent already figured most of this out. The tales of what you did out on the Azure Sea are frankly beyond belief, and Father-in-Law says that they hardly do your accomplishments justice. Hes not one to exaggerate either, not even when his precious son is involved, and if anything, Id say hes likely understating the facts quite a bit. Despite her skeptical remarks, Milas tone is filled with love and pride as she basks in my accomplishments, so head over heels for me in a way I can scarcely even believe. You raised the waves to shatter an entire ship and separate two battling armies with little more than a wave of your hand, and here you are asking me for advice regarding your Blessing. Absurd is what it is.Idly summoning Water Chi into the palm of my hand again, I reminisce on that days events while staring at my palm, as if able to see the past in this shallow pool of water. A lot of things were made clear that day, I begin, grasping at the memories that seem to escape me even now. The properties of water and what drives it mostly, as well as how I utilize my Blessing in more ways than I previously thought. I told you about how my Devouring is contingent on my Blessing, a Talent I probably developed because I came so close to surrendering and transforming into a Demon, back when I was drifting through the rapids of Western Treasures lake. The Spectres and our foe wanted me to surrender so they could consume my soul, but in a fit of pique, I decided I would consume them instead, reversing a process that might well have already begun. I have Baledagh to thank for that, my alter-ego unwilling to become prey, because he was a Warrior born, or at least we pretended to be one. Fake it till you make it, as I always say, and Baledagh was well on his way to success.Repressing a surge of melancholy for the little brother I never had and lost, I stifle a sigh and pretend not to see Milas look of growing concern etched across her lovely, freckled face. Anyways, it was all very enlightening and such, but while it revealed many truths to me which I should have already known, most of what I did that day wasnt really my work. I supplied the Chi and the Intent, but Blobby did all the heavy lifting, directing the currents to protect the Imperials and separate the enemies to be killed or Cleansed. To make matters worse, while I remember doing it, and knowing what I was doing in the moment, here and now, I cannot recall any specifics as to what exactly I did or how I did it.To illustrate my point, I wave my palm about and try to make the water within do something impressive, but as expected, nothing unnatural happens. The Water Chi just sits there in my palm, like real water, wet and cool as expected. Dismissing the Water Chi with a thought, I lean into my warm, soft wife for moral support and add, Not to say I didnt gain anything from the experience. Way back when I was still muddling my way along the Martial Path and barely knew up from down, I managed to produce Water Chi by envisioning the cool metal surface of my sword drawing moisture from the warm air around it, but even then I had my doubts about whether that was what was happening. I specifically remember thinking that spitting water was fine for turtles, but as a human being, there was no way I could go around on the battlefield spewing water from my gullet to use against my foes. Drawing moisture from the air was just my way of coping with the nonsensical manner in which Chi becomes Water Chi, but I never actually drew water from the air in the first place.And now you know that Water Chi seeped out of your sword, a concept which was somehow too abstract for you to accept less than two years ago.The amusement in Milas voice does wonders for my spirits, because even if shes laughing at me, Im happy just to see her happy. Now however, I understand that Water Chi is not actual water, and more than understand it, I accept it. The Water Chi exists inside me, tucked away in my Core and brought out in the same manner as Chi or Aura, so now that Ive come to terms with this simple fact, Im able to summon Water Chi as I please. Grimacing at the lacklustre ability Ive now mastered, I re-summon the pool of Water Chi and wish for it to do something, anything at all, but again, no dice. Cant do anything with it though, which is kinda useless, but heres hoping. I still need to figure out Water Bullets, Water Shields, Water Tentacles, or really, anything of real use to me outside of the Azure Sea, which means I still have a long ways to go, but at least now I have a general direction to head towards.You know, Mila says, her tone wry and mocking, You keep talking as if access to your strongest abilities being limited to the Azure Sea is some great handicap, but you seem to forget that the sea is awfully large.I spent a grand total of about three seconds using my powers in the Azure Sea, and it cost me just about all my Chi and most of the Heavenly Energy I Cleansed from close to a hundred Demons. It also put me in a coma for about a week, and Im still suffering from the effects now almost two weeks later, so Id hardly call that an efficient use of my resources. Turns out Im a real one-pump chump as it were, a fact I would rather not become widespread. Stealing a kiss to keep Mila from arguing her next point, I add, Shipping barrels of sea water over didnt work, as that turned out to just be sea water. I probably have to be the one to go collect it, else Blobby wont come out of the sea, and while I could stay in SuiHua to practice until I understand how to use Water Chi without Blobbys assistance, my family is all here and I cant bear to be apart from them. Not to mention the minor fact that I am still the head of state and technically the highest ranking civil and military official in the outer provinces, which means I cant just run off to do my own thing whenever I damn well please.That being said, its not like Im spending all my time idling about and indulging in lust with my wives. Ive got fingers in many different projects, not just the coveted hang-gliders Lin-Lin is so eagerly awaiting. Lishan Suzhens colleague from the south finally came through and my rubber factory is currently in business making all sorts of useful things, though I insisted my order of rubber balls in various sizes came first. I had a giant rubber ball made for Ping Ping way back when she was huge, but its gone unused ever since her ascension since its too heavy for her and all the other animals to play with. I cannot wait to see how all my floofs react to their new bouncy, floating toys, especially the bears and wildcats. Theres nothing cuter than watching a big old floof roll around with a ball, and there is nothing anyone can do to convince me otherwise. Ive also been working with Taokang Geyan to spread awareness of Panacea, borrowing the renowned Healers name to publish a primer on the basics of this newfangled Healing method for all to read. Though the stocky Westerner was none too pleased about being asked to take credit for work he did not do, he came around to the idea once he realized my life would be in danger if my name were attached to the project.At which point Geyan couldnt agree any faster. As a man without a province to call home anymore, his actions in sharing Panacea could be seen as an altruistic act tainted by thoughts of vengeance. More resilient Warriors meant a better chance of retaking the West, so whether he compiled his information after the existence of Panacea became known to the world, or if hed been hiding this secret all along, it wouldnt matter because Geyan has nothing to lose. I hate putting someone else in danger to keep myself safe, but as the foremost Healer of the Western Province, Im hoping the powers that be leave him alone on the basis that if he had any other useful knowledge to share, he would have long since done so without prompting.To keep him safe, Ive added Geyan to Gao Changgongs retinue and tasked the former Major General to keep the Healer alive, while simultaneously having MuYang keep an eye on them both. Trust, but verify, thats my motto now.Theres also the matter of raising morale, reinforcing the Districts, and rebuilding the Central Citadel, as well as improving the defences not just at the other two Citadels, but all along the wall itself. The man-made river running all along the Western Border is slated to be widened at all fronts, an idea I came up with after the barrels of sea water turned out to be water, rather than bound Chi Tea. I figured that since the water was flowing in from the Azure Sea, I could then use the river water the same way I use the sea water, but alas, Blobby refused to respond to my summons no matter where I stood in the river or how long I called for him. It raises an interesting question about water, in that if all of the worlds water is connected, what difference is there in stream water from river water, or river water from sea water, assuming its all fresh and drinkable? More to the point, when does the water from the Azure Sea turn into water from the man-made river? At the mouth of the river by SuiHua harbour? Or somewhere before or after that? Is there any difference? What about rain falling into the Azure Sea? Does that water become a part of Blobby, only to split away once it evaporates and rises up into the clouds again? Also, why did Blobby merge with the sea, but refuse to merge with my bathwater? And why was Ping Ping so intent on drinking my bathwater? Neither turtle seems to care for my dirty wash water anymore, no matter how much I meditate and channel into it, nor do any of the animals show any reaction to it either, not that they ever did. It would appear that somehow, Im no longer able to turn physical Water into Chi-Tea, which is odd to say the least, and ruins my plans of mass producing a countermeasure to Demon Ichor and Anathema.I have so many more questions and concerns worth delving into, but I have top people working on most of those things, so I have nothing to do besides work on my own issues. Falling silent to focus on the Water Chi in my hand, I Visualize the clear liquid swirling in a clockwise motion and exert my Chi to Deflect it in that same direction, but the Water Chi remains still as ever. Undeterred, I keep up my efforts until the water wobbles ever so slightly, but my throbbing headache breaks my concentration and leaves me reeling with regret, as I am not yet recovered from the battle against Huanhuzis pirate fleet. I overused my metaphysical circulatory system, that still unnamed and unseen mechanism through which I channel Chi, and now it feels like no matter how full my Core is, I can only squeeze a trickle of Chi out to use as I please. Not an unheard of ailment according to Taduk, but all I can do is wait until I recover, which could be a matter of days or weeks. Thankfully, weve thus far kept things under wraps and Ive been sparring with other Experts and Peak Experts as normal, so no one should be the wiser as to my weakened condition, but heres hoping Zhen Shi sits still until Ive worked out all the kinks and am ready to retake the West.But even if he appears on the battlefield today, I would still take up Peace, Tranquility, and Unity to stand against him, because as Legate of the Outer Provinces, these are my lands and my people, so I will defend them to the last.Also, fuck Zhen Shi and everything about him. I hate that guy, and spite is totally a valid a motivation.Chapter Meme
