Chapter 159: Ninefold Body Refinement Scripture
She paused briefly, eyes reflecting a deep sorrow as she continued in a quieter voice. "I've personally known talented youths who attempted both paths simultaneously. Many burned themselves out, their foundations collapsing tragically. Even those who succeeded and reached the peak of the Ninth Tier couldn't break through to the next grade, and those who attempted died trying to merge both paths."
Orion listened attentively, absorbing each word carefully. Yet, despite the gravity of her warnings, his resolve didn't waver.
He gently placed his hand over Selene's reassuringly. His tone was warm, filled with confidence. "Grandma, I truly appreciate your concern. But remember—I've already shared with both of you the nature of my lineage. I possess the Human Emperor Lineage. Walking both the Mage and Warrior paths isn't just something I can do—it's something I must do."
Eldric and Selene both stiffened slightly, their gazes flickering with deep contemplation. They clearly recalled Orion's revelations about his unique bloodline—a lineage that stood at the absolute pinnacle of human potential, capable of achieving feats others could only dream of.
Eldric sighed, leaning back into his chair as he regarded Orion thoughtfully. "The Human Emperor Lineage, hmm... If anyone could walk this impossible path successfully, it would be you. And not like there hasn't been precedent for it. Many suspect Sir Dawn to be someone who walked both paths."
Selene's eyes softened, her worries slowly transforming into acceptance. "Very well, dear," she finally conceded, her gentle smile reappearing. "If your mind is truly made up, we will support you wholeheartedly."
Orion's expression brightened immediately, his smile conveying slight excitement and gratitude. "Thank you, Grandma. Grandpa. Your support truly means everything to me."
Selene gently smiled and reached toward her storage ring to take out a delicate, jade-bound manual. She carefully placed it in front of Orion, her eyes filled with gentle warmth. "This manual, called the Ninefold Body Refinement Scripture, details the foundational method for cultivating one's physique using mana."
"It has nine distinct levels, each corresponding directly to the nine tiers of the mage path. You must refine your entire body first, then gradually hone each internal component—skin, muscles, tendons, bones, and even the marrow. Mastering each stage is crucial before progressing to the next."
Orion held the manual with an excited expression, feeling the weight in his palm. "Thank you, Grandma. I'll study it thoroughly."