Some of these terms should probably be in the Definitions category but are placed here for better organization, along with more detailed information that I believe is important to know.
What is Cultivation?
Cultivation is a power-based system inspired by the Chinese genres of Xianxia and Wuxia. It represents the path individuals take to grow stronger, often through spiritual, physical, and mental development.
In this world, cultivation is structured in stages. These stages signify the growth of the cultivator’s abilities. You can explore these stages in more detail on the page: Power Levels, Steps, Bases and Realms ✏️.
Though cultivation systems may vary from story to story, mine may differ from well-known series like The Eternal Sacred King, The Mirror Legacy, A World Worth Protecting, or I Have Immortality In The Cultivation World. While influenced by them, my system is uniquely tailored for my universe(s).
A common theme in many cultivation systems is the use of four key stages, which I also utilize in my world: Qi Condensation, Foundation Establishment, Core Formation, and Nascent Soul.
Why is X [Redacted]?
If you encounter [Redacted] information, it means that the details are not available for public viewing at this time. This is intentional for the story’s progression. Rest assured, the information exists in my private documents, but it is hidden for narrative reasons.
When did you start creating your world?
I began crafting this world around 4-5 years ago, though many of the characters were conceptualized 7-8 years ago. Over time, they’ve undergone significant transformations, evolving from their original designs and personalities. This journey also involved incorporating complex systems like cultivation and expanding their background stories.
Why are these numbers recurring?
As Xianxia and Wuxia draw heavily on Chinese culture, many of the recurring numbers in this world are inspired by traditional Chinese beliefs and symbolism. In cultivation, numbers are not arbitrary; they hold unique significance, shaping realms, stages, and even specific techniques. Here’s what some of these key numbers mean:
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3
Three often represents a balanced union between Heaven, Earth, and Humanity, a triad that influences cultivation practices and balance. The number three is also found in spiritual laws, formations, and certain pill recipes, symbolizing harmony.
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4
The number 4 (Sì) in Chinese sounds similar to the word for Death (Sǐwáng), making it a taboo or inauspicious number. Because of this, the fourth step in cultivation stages is often marked with trials or life-and-death tribulations, adding risk for those seeking to advance.
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5
Five represents the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) foundational to cultivation and alchemical practices. Many techniques and cultivation levels are organized around these elements, as they are essential to harmonizing one’s inner energy with the world’s natural forces.
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7
The number 7 is often linked to enlightenment, introspection, and spiritual insight. Many spiritual breakthroughs are said to happen in stages that multiply by seven, signifying personal growth and Daoist wisdom.
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9
Nine is considered the most potent number under Heaven and is often reserved for the highest stages of cultivation or realms associated with immortality. A cultivator who reaches the ninth stage is thought to have achieved mastery over Heaven and Earth, nearing divine status.
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11
The number 11 reflects the coexistence of opposites, such as light and dark, yin and yang, creation and destruction. This number often appears in techniques or artifacts that require balance or unity between conflicting forces. For some sects, reaching the eleventh step in a cultivation stage signifies mastery over one’s inner conflicts, as it is seen as a number of spiritual harmony. This balance may be essential for cultivators who strive to ascend higher realms or wield powerful dual-aspect techniques.
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13
While commonly seen as unlucky in the West, the number 13 translates in Chinese to “assured growth” and is often a positive number in cultivation. It’s a number associated with progress and stability and is sometimes used to mark a hidden, unexpected achievement or stage.
What is a Dao/What is the Dao?
Please refer to Dao