Huaxu Grove · Testing the BladeAI
Ninth day of the eighth month, first year of Yingshun
Fine grade. First batch of jellyfish. Venom very strong. Tested by drawing its dew: it swiftly brings delusion, then sudden deep sleep. Ground into scented dust, its ferocity is still hard to control. Only once its potency is drained can it be used.
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Twelfth day of the eighth month, first year of Yingshun
Coarse grade. Tenth batch of jellyfish. Venom weak. Tested by drawing its dew: its visions come slowly but last long. Ground into scented dust, its effect is mild too; suitable to supply Changle Isle.
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Since ancient times, people have mostly held "uniting with heaven" to be the true way of seeking the Dao. But why must man stand beneath heaven?
Long ago, Cook Ding carved an ox, and came to grasp its every principle until he no longer saw the whole ox. Now every kind of test shall be my blade, to carve open how all things are. The first test is in Weiyang, with the seamoon as the blade to carve the limits of man. The second test is in Shu...
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One day, it will be not the way of uniting with heaven, but the way of overcoming heaven.