Heavenly Decline

Xu Yi asked, "May I ask, senior, what is a true spirit?"

Tang Shanhai replied, "What a true spirit is is difficult to describe. You only need to know that it is a stage in the growth of a Divine Infant. Actually, I think I know what you want to ask. You're simply craning your neck and standing on tiptoe to catch a glimpse of the world beyond the Heavenly Decline Realm, aren't you? There's nothing wrong with that. If we cultivators lost our curiosity about higher realms, how frightening would that be?"

"You don't need to ask one question at a time. I'll tell you plainly. Just hearing the words 'Heavenly Decline,' you should be able to sense the sorrow contained in this realm. We cultivators have always rejoiced at the prospect of advancing, but the Heavenly Decline Realm is the sole exception. I dare say that when most cultivators hear they're about to enter it, their sorrow outweighs their joy."

Xu Yi asked, "Why is that? If they fear it, they can simply refuse to enter this realm."

Tang Shanhai replied, "When the time comes, how can human strength turn back what is meant to be? In truth, when one advances from the Lightning Tribulation to Heavenly Decline, Heaven's will matters more than effort. A glimmer of insight suddenly arises from the depths of one's being, and the signs of Heavenly Decline appear. At that point, the cultivator's body will show certain symptoms: grime will form on the skin, their hair will wither, and they'll sweat filth. No matter how thoroughly they wash, their body will still stink. Eventually, they'll grow to loathe their own flesh. These are the five signs of Heavenly Decline."

Xu Yi was utterly astonished. He knew all too well that at his level