Five years flew by.
In that time, I did what I've always done best — adapt.
I learned the language quickly, listening, observing, piecing together meaning from tone and context. My mind, though trapped in a child's body, retained the maturity and reasoning of my past life.
My parents are Mei Li (mother) and Li Yan (father) — cultivators of the Xunei Sect, a minor group tasked with protecting Bamboo Village. Not the most prestigious title, but their strength is real.
They named me Du Li.
A good name, Short and easy to remember.
My mother rarely lets me wander far from the village, but I'm not easily restrained.
Especially not at night.
Opposite the village lies a quiet, untouched mountain. Most villagers avoid it. Naturally, I was drawn to it.
One night, hidden behind ivy and stone, I found it — a narrow cave entrance.
The moment I stepped inside, I felt it.
Spiritual energy.
The air was thick with it. A forgotten cultivation ground — or maybe a sealed one.
With the help of the Xunei Sect's basic cultivation method (a scroll I quietly 'borrowed' from my father's study), I began cultivating in secret.
After months of silent effort, I reached Qi Gathering Level 4.
I told no one. Even at age four, I knew better than to show my full hand.
That same year, my mother began teaching me the fundamentals of cultivation.
It starts with Qi Refining, which has six levels. A beginner senses and guides Qi, strengthening body and spirit.
Next is Qi Foundation, with nine levels. Here, one stabilizes internal flow, laying the groundwork for greater power.
Then comes Golden Core, also nine levels. Cultivators at this stage condense their Qi into a solid core within the dantian — the mark of true mastery and extended life.
Beyond that lie realms few reach and fewer speak of — where one begins to transcend mortality itself.
But I'm not in a rush.
Every day, I refine my control. Cultivate in secret. Test the limits of what this young body can handle.
This life is my second chance.
And I intend to use it — fully.