Chapter 10, Formation Path
Indeed! Xu Mu Yang replied solemnly: "If you regard the human body as a world, we cultivators are cultivating our own bodies. Outside of us, this vast universe is itself a world. In this world, there are mountains and rivers, lakes and oceans; in fact, everything corresponds to our human body. The human body absorbs spiritual energy and releases celestial techniques through its application. Since there is spiritual energy in the universe, why can it not be used to generate the methods of the celestial beings? In this world, there are mountains and rivers, lakes and oceans; in fact, everything corresponds to our human body. The human body absorbs spiritual energy and releases celestial techniques through its application. Since there is spiritual energy in the universe, why can it not be used to generate the methods of the celestial beings? The universe is unconscious and cannot utilize spiritual energy on its own, but cultivators can combine it through various means, and this is the formation!"
"Reproduce the formation I just drew. Remember, it must be done in the exact order I drew it, stroke by stroke, without the slightest error," Xu Mu Yang said淡淡道.
In addition, there are also classifications based on function, such as when refining talismans and instruments, which also require formations. Some people refer to this category as auxiliary formations, meaning assistance within assistance
According to Xu Mu Yang, formations are generally divided into two types: static formations and dynamic formations. A static formation is one that is fixed and immovable, such as the small maze formation that Tang Jie previously encountered, which is a static formation. A dynamic formation, on the other hand, is typically a battle formation, usually a formation deployed by cultivators working together, capable of amplifying power and serving as a treasure for the weak to overcome the strong
He did not know that Xu Mu Yang wanted him to draw it, yet he never expected that he could draw it all.
At first, Xu Mu Yang was indifferent, but he was taken aback when he saw Tang Jie drawing a line.
The Qixia Realm is not devoid of mathematics, but the status of this knowledge within the Qixia Realm is not high, and its depth is far inferior to that of Earth. Those who understand it may not necessarily be able to cultivate immortality, and those who cultivate immortality may not need to understand it. Only those practitioners who delve into the path of formations will study this area of knowledge
In the contemporary understanding of large formations, at least in this Xihua realm, there is hardly anyone who can surpass Xu Mu Yang.
Xumuyang replied: "The so-called formation path ultimately boils down to one phrase: it is the cultivation of heaven and earth"
You must be a stubborn one, always opposing others—ever since I learned that Xu Mu Yang cannot read minds, Tang Jie’s internal complaints have become increasingly intense
The so-called formation is akin to a type of high-tech precision machinery, powered by spiritual energy, with array patterns replacing meridians, operating spiritual energy to achieve specified effects
Does that mean that as long as there is a Spirit Gathering Array, it can automatically absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, and the Spirit Gathering Array is the source of the formation? But how is the Spirit Gathering Array activated? Is it self-sufficient? A perpetual motion machine? Tang Jie was almost wide-eyed with astonishment
That is a small gathering spirit formation I added, which can automatically absorb spiritual energy; this is called layering formations within formations
Upon hearing this, Xu Mu Yang replied: "Perhaps there truly are no formations that exist eternally, but formations that have existed for thousands or even tens of thousands of years do indeed exist"
The four assistants of the immortal family, the array of talismans and tools, among which the array path has the most extensive applications. It can not only be used to create protective mountain arrays, which are the signature formations of various sects, but it also has auxiliary effects on the three assistants of talismans and tools. Alchemy requires the arrangement of formations, the creation of talismans necessitates array diagrams, and the forging of tools similarly requires the engraving of arrays. It can be said to be omnipresent and profoundly influential. Precisely for this reason, the array path is also divided into various types.
Therefore, what is an extremely simple pattern for Tang Jie may be utterly perplexing to others
Xu Mu Yang grew increasingly alarmed the more he looked.
However, the laws of the world are different, the users are different, and therefore the phenomena and effects produced, as well as the means of creation, are entirely different
It turns out that there is still no true perpetual motion machine. Tang Jie sighed and said, "Does that mean that there is no truly eternal formation in the world? Every formation actually requires someone to maintain it or sufficient spiritual energy resources to exist?"
He, a dignified and accomplished master of the Heavenly Heart Realm, surprisingly appeared like a child who had made a mistake when faced with the questioning of a mere adolescent, which is quite amusing
Yes, your father advised you not to study the formation path, yet you insisted on pursuing it
One can only say that he truly loves Zhendao very much
In the next moment, Tang Jie had picked up a branch and began to draw lines on the ground. He could not rely on the inspiration that Mu Yang casually conjured, so he could only diligently work on the paper. However, each stroke he made was remarkably neat.
Principles guide behavior
Upon hearing Xu Mu Yang's response, Tang Jie stood up and left
"Then how do you explain your talent?" Xu Mu Yang remained undeterred.
Tang Jie had never seen him so proactive before. In the past, in order to learn about cultivating immortality from Xu Mu Yang, he had expended countless efforts, putting himself in life-threatening situations, and in the end, he only managed to learn the Zangxiang Sutra.
"That is strange; I did not see any spirit stones in that little maze you used before."
Tang Jie merely glanced at it and then traced a few lines with a small twig: "This line... this line... and this line."
Tang Jie shook his head and said, "I am not angry; I am just pondering what exactly a formation is and why it is so miraculous"
Xu Mu Yang's face flushed: "I just lost track of time"
Tang Jie helplessly replied: "How would I know... Perhaps I do not love the formation path, but the formation path loves me!"
Tang Jie had never seen anyone like this before, and he was astonished to hear: "Brother Xu, but I truly have no feeling about this at all"
He had previously found himself trapped in the formation, feeling as if he were in a maze. The courtyard was clearly the same courtyard, yet he could not find his way out no matter how he tried. The small house was within arm's reach, yet it felt as distant as the horizon. At that moment, he felt a sense of panic and fear, but upon reflection afterward, he could only marvel at the profound mystery of it all. Thus, even while eating, he could not help but ponder what principle could transform the originally ordinary land into a space akin to that of a deity.
When it comes to excitement, Xu Mu Yang suddenly said: "How about you learn the art of formations with me?"
... ...
"Existing for thousands of years?" Tang Jie was taken aback by Xu Mu Yang's statement
Did you notice it as well? Xu Mu Yang laughed heartily: "Indeed, array formation is a truly marvelous discipline, encompassing all things and containing the profound truths of heaven and earth. Every blade of grass and every tree can be part of an array. It can be said to be the most extraordinary mystery in the world. Even if a cultivator spends their entire life on it, they may not comprehend even one ten-thousandth of it, and its applications are boundless..."
The path of formations demands a high level of proficiency in the principles of change and numerical arts; however, very few are genuinely interested in delving into it. Those who pursue the way of formations often seek the power of the formations themselves, showing no interest in the arts and principles required to realize them. Each of these subjects is a source of immense suffering when studied.
Xu Mu Yang was shocked; it is not difficult to find three non-interfering lines among this complex array of patterns, but it is not easy to do so at such a fast speed
Because he discovered that there were several methods used by Tang Jie that he himself did not understand
It can be said that Xu Mu Yang had never encountered many individuals proficient in mathematics throughout his life. It was only at this moment that he suddenly realized, feeling both astonished and delighted, and suddenly grasped Tang Jie, exclaiming: "You prodigy! You genius! How can you say you do not wish to learn? You are truly a genius in the path of cultivation!"
So that's how it is. Tang Jie understood that this is essentially the physics of the previous life
The immortal's relationship with mortals is akin to that of a deity with the world; even if one were to be trapped for half a day, or even killed, bystanders would not dare to speak out. However, now Xu Mu Yang has actually apologized to Tang Jie, which can only be said to reflect the deep bond that has developed between Xu Mu Yang and Tang Jie.
Understood, the formation eye is the brain, which commands; the formation pattern is the blood vessels and bones, which support; the formation gate is the place where true power is exerted, which is the limbs; the formation source is the heart, the source of power, just like the engine... oh no, just like the spiritual eye within our body, right
Although the formation is excellent, human energy is limited
At this moment, Xu Mu was speaking passionately and continuously, becoming even more animated and expressive as he reached the height of his excitement
As soon as the topic of his favorite things comes up, Xu Mu Yang immediately becomes loquacious, showering it with lavish praise.
Go cook. I was trapped as soon as I returned, and the meal is not yet prepared
If you are willing to listen to your father and focus on your cultivation, you probably wouldn't even need to use formations to make that He Chong roll over in fear. Tang Jie silently scoffed in his heart, but seeing Xu Mu Yang's exuberant demeanor, he truly could not bear to, nor did he dare to, dampen his spirits.
Xu Mu Yang has presented another question on m.hetushu.com, but this time it tests his ability to calculate the sizes of various routes and areas
"One cannot say it that way." Xu Mu Yang shook his head and said, "The path of cultivation is fraught with difficulties; in addition to hard work, one must also possess insight. Both the formation path and cultivation encompass the profound principles of heaven and earth, and the two can indeed complement each other. Furthermore, the formation path is not without its role in combat; during the battle at Cuiwei Mountain, my strength was far inferior to that of He Chong, yet he was still driven away with the assistance of the Eight Gates Locking Heaven Formation that I had set up in advance."
"Indeed, just recently, I experienced it myself." Xu Mu Yang's expression had turned solemn, and an infinite admiration appeared in his eyes, as if he was recalling something.
Others wish to learn but you do not teach, I do not wish to learn yet you insist on teaching
"So, you just set up a formation on a whim, then went back inside to reflect on your insights, completely forgetting about me?" Tang Jie glared at Xu Mu Yang and asked.
After dinner, Xu Mu Yang began to give Tang Jie a lesson
For example, some people believe that formations are merely tools for assistance, an external manifestation of the cultivator's will, and serve the practitioner. Therefore, such individuals dismiss Xu Mu Yang's view that the path of formations is the same as the path of heaven and earth.
"Where are you going?" Xu Mu Yang asked in astonishment
The two individuals dined together in the courtyard, while Tang Jie remained silent throughout.
Because Tang Jie almost perfectly reproduced the several formations he had previously drawn, once Tang Jie finished, Xu Mu Yang discovered that every stroke and line of Tang Jie was nearly flawless
The Restoration of Heaven and Earth
Tang Jie did not expect that studying formations would turn into a mathematics exam, and he was unsure of the level of proficiency required to be considered qualified, so he could only grit his teeth and proceed step by step according to Xu Mu Yang's demands
Xu Mu Yang said: "This formation technique is something I have learned by gathering various formation books from around the world; it does not belong to the secret teachings of the Xu family and can be passed on to you. I see that you are clever and bright, making you quite suitable for learning it"
Indeed. Practitioners cast spells using the spiritual sea within their bodies as the source of power, while the formation source relies on external materials such as spirit stones for energy. Naturally, the practitioners themselves can also contribute to this power.
His achievements in the realm of techniques are attributed to his profound love for these practices, as well as his passion for the principles of change and numerology. In his view, Tang Jie’s talent is a reflection of his love for the path of techniques; otherwise, how could he have attained such mastery
Why does the head of the Xu family not want Xu Mu Yang to study the formation path? It is simply because he fears that Xu Mu Yang will become distracted and delay his proper path. Tang Jie asked himself, lacking Xu Mu Yang's extraordinary talent, even someone who has opened seven turns in their sect had to flee in embarrassment under the pursuit of the Golden Armored Celestial God. If he were to become distracted as well, he feared that his future achievements would also be limited
What exactly is that array?" Tang Jie asked
However... my heart is on the main road, not quite suitable for being distracted by books..." Tang Jie hesitated to respond
Xu Mu Yang's philosophy has made him proficient in the formations of heaven and earth, excelling in the arrangement or dismantling of large-scale, super-massive formations, while he is not particularly skilled in battle formations or smaller auxiliary formations
What I wish to learn is the art of immortality, yet what you are teaching is the path of formations
However, regardless of whether he is willing or not, he must learn this path.
"You... how did you do it?" Xu Mu Yang looked astonished
It is precisely for this reason that the array system has a wide coverage in the realm of cultivation
Xu Mu Yang looked at his unwilling expression, feeling both amused and exasperated. He tapped his head and said, "You rascal, truly taking advantage while pretending to be innocent. Do you know how many people wish to come under my tutelage to learn the art of formations, yet I do not accept them?"
In recent days, the Xu Mu Yang he has seen is mostly silent and reserved, exuding an ethereal aura; only the Xu Mu Yang of the present truly displays the essence that is characteristic of ordinary people
"Nonsense! With such talent, how can you say you don't love it?" At this moment, Xu Muyang became excited, completely losing his previous elegance. Seeing Tang Jie stubbornly deny his talent in this field, he was even more heartbroken and exclaimed, "You don't understand what love is!"
The formation is vast and profound, but regardless of the type of formation, it is inseparable from the four elements: the formation eye, the formation pattern, the formation gate, and the formation source. The so-called formation eye is the core and center of the formation, akin to the human brain, which controls everything and is the most critical part. Without a formation eye, the formation cannot operate according to your will; such a formation is a true dead formation. The so-called formation pattern refers to the pathways through which spiritual energy flows, similar to the blood vessels and meridians in the human body, and the roads of the world. Without formation patterns, the formation cannot function. The formation gate serves as the entrance and exit; it allows people to enter and exit, and can also keep enemies at bay, with the power of life and death contained within. The formation source is the origin from which the great formation is activated. Just as a person must possess spiritual energy to perform techniques, so too must the formation have its source.
Tang Jie had little interest in mathematics, but his mother was a mathematics teacher who once whipped him to study diligently, saying that if he did not perform well, it would bring shame to her as his mother. Now, having graduated for less than two years, he has not yet had the opportunity to fully apply what he learned. Moreover, the problems posed by Xu Mu Yang are not particularly difficult, so Tang Jie has managed to solve more than half of them.
Xu Mu Yang continued, saying: "Moreover, you are currently only cleansing your meridians and cannot cultivate. Since you have nothing else to do, I have promised to teach you some things. Although I cannot impart the celestial techniques of the Xu family, I can teach you everything I have learned about formations throughout my life, which does not violate my promise. If in the future you truly have no interest in learning, I will not force you. What do you think?"
In summary, there are numerous schools of thought regarding formations, each with a long history and rich origins. In fact, there is no unified standard; each has its own criteria for evaluation, and opinions vary widely.
Before long, Tang Jie had already prepared the dinner and brought it over
As he raised his hand, he traced several lines in the air, and unique patterns began to shimmer in the void, only to fade and disappear moments later
After a long while, he sighed and said: "Compared to the ancient great powers, I am still far too lacking. If it were not for this, I would not have only been able to open that first portal..."
He did not continue speaking, but instead changed the subject: "Enough of that, it is not something you can understand at the moment. Let us return to the topic of formations. Among the four cores of a formation, the formation patterns and formation sources are the most complex. I will first teach you the basics of formation patterns."
Ah? Tang Jie was stunned
At this moment, upon hearing Tang Jie say it was extremely simple, Xu Mu Yang hurriedly drew another complex diagram on the ground. This time, however, he did not ask Tang Jie to copy it; instead, he pointed to the patterns above and said: "Using this point as the starting point and this point as the endpoint, find three lines that connect but do not intersect with each other"
Tang Jie was startled by his sudden grab, and even spoke his thoughts aloud: "But I don't want to learn."
"What’s wrong? Are you still angry with me?" Xu Mu Yang said with a smile as he looked at Tang Jie, "Alright, I admit it’s all my fault. I apologize to you, is that okay?"
Drawing formations is a fundamental skill for formation masters and is often a prerequisite for entry assessments. Although Xu Mu Yang is eager to teach Tang Jie, he also wishes to see if Tang Jie possesses any talent in this area. If it turns out that he has no talent whatsoever in this regard, Xu Mu Yang would not insist on it.
"Alright..." Tang Jie replied weakly.
It's quite simple, isn't it? It's just a combination of some solid and dashed line patterns. Tang Jie was somewhat puzzled. In his eyes, although these formations were complex, they were merely geometric shapes that could be remembered with a little effort, after all, he was very familiar with such things from his school days. Since Xu Mu Yang asked him to draw it, he simply followed and drew it.
Now, Tang Jie is no longer the confused young man who knew nothing about cultivation. He is well aware of the many difficulties on the path of cultivation. Many people, throughout their lives, may not even reach the peak.
It is no wonder that Tang Jie is angry; who would feel good after being trapped in a formation for several hours upon returning
He is a thorough determinist, firmly believing that only love can achieve great accomplishments
Xu Mu Yang had never heard the term "perpetual motion machine," but he could understand its meaning from the literal sense. He laughed heartily and said, "How could there be such a good thing? The Spirit Gathering Array itself requires external force to activate; I had to input another stream of spiritual energy to make it operate. Even so, the Spirit Gathering Array can only gather the nearby spiritual energy. Once the nearby spiritual energy is depleted, it will have no further effect. This small maze array was merely a playful creation of mine; unless supplemented with spirit stones, it will at most last for three days before dissipating on its own." Even so, the Spirit Gathering Array can only gather the nearby spiritual energy. Once the nearby spiritual energy is depleted, it will have no further effect. This small maze array was merely a playful creation of mine; unless supplemented with spirit stones, it will at most last for three days before dissipating on its own.