Back in his immortal cave, Tian Lei settled once more upon the silken mat. His breathing slowed to a steady rhythm, quiet as the flowing water outside. The faint fragrance of tea still lingered in the chamber, blending with the cool night air.
Closing his eyes, he guided his qi through his meridians. The flow was smooth, steady, and balanced. With each breath, energy gathered in his dantian, circulating in cycles that nourished both body and spirit.
The pearl lamps cast a soft glow across the chamber, their light shifting faintly as the qi in the room grew denser. Outside, the koi pond rippled in silence, as though responding to the subtle rhythm of his cultivation.
His soul sense remained calm, spread evenly through his body, ensuring that no strand of qi went astray. Slowly, he refined the gathered energy, polishing it until it merged seamlessly with his foundation.
