Research on Sage Mode Cultivation Methods

Ideals are grand, but reality is harsh!

Although the path ahead had been found and a detailed training plan established, it was an undeniable fact that Neji could only incorporate three main meridians into his internal circulation at this stage, and these were the most stable and easiest ones. Incorporating each subsequent meridian would likely take a considerable amount of time.

As for when he could open up the eight extraordinary meridians, it would probably take at least a few years!

As the saying goes, haste makes waste. Without prolonged tempering and a solid foundation, even if all the main meridians and extraordinary meridians were opened now, it would be in vain. The fragile meridians, along with the same-source Chakra, might not be able to withstand it, let alone the more violent and immense Sage Mode energy.

Therefore, improving control over Sage Mode and strengthening the meridians were equally important, and this would be one of his main training focuses for the next few years.

A high-concentration Natural Energy training environment and a specially formulated physique enhancement fluid were indispensable. These would greatly shorten his Sage Mode training progress. Without their help, relying solely on his own arduous training would take not just years, but perhaps even decades.

Putting aside distracting thoughts, Neji immediately entered a deep level of training. The high-concentration Natural Energy in the air and the tamed Sage Mode energy within his body became active simultaneously, slowly awaiting Neji's command to cleanse his meridians and acupoints, aiming to improve his control over Sage Mode energy and enhance the strength of his meridians, acupoints, and physique.

This cycle repeated, day in and day out, a monotonous and tedious training! It was accompanied by pain and swelling in his meridians and acupoints. Without immense willpower, even with knowledge of the training method, how many people could persevere through such torment!

As the saying goes, through the sifting of the great waves, only true gold remains!

This was probably the ultimate treasure for truly becoming stronger, Neji thought silently!

Neji didn't immerse himself in training for too long. On one hand, he needed to look after the newcomers who had just begun their Sage Mode training.

On the other hand, the situation in the Land of Hot Water was still unstable, and he needed to make further arrangements.

These matters seemed like they would hinder Neji's own training, but once he got through the initial stages and completed the establishment of his forces, with the support and help of his faction, he would have an endless supply of training resources and time to improve himself, without needing to handle everything personally.

This was an investment, a necessary investment for long-term development!

About ten days passed. In the large training room, the more than ten people sensing Natural Energy had varying progress. As Neji expected, Haku was the fastest among them.

Haku's talent was extraordinary, his mind was pure, and he was the youngest, all of which were his advantages, allowing him to easily sense the Natural Energy in the air and establish a degree of resonance with it.

This affinity for Natural Energy was something even he himself might not possess, truly embodying the saying: "Heaven favors the simple-minded." Those who are uncompetitive, don't snatch, don't force things, and go with the flow are more in tune with nature and are more beloved by it!

Next was Zabuza, after all, his strength was undeniable.

The remaining eight Chunin had varying progress. After nearly ten days of seclusion, they had become somewhat restless. Without a calm mind, it was difficult to concentrate their will to sense Natural Energy.

So, Neji lifted the restrictions, allowing them to adjust their training time reasonably based on their own conditions, emphasizing that they should not force their training.

After dismissing these Chunin, Neji brought Zabuza and Haku into the small training room. Neji could sense that both of them could now clearly capture the Natural Energy in the air and could proceed to the next step: drawing Natural Energy into their bodies.

This step was crucial. After sharing his training experience and precautions with Zabuza and Haku, Neji warned them not to absorb too much Natural Energy during their first attempt.

If they found the Natural Energy becoming violent or uncontrollable within their bodies, they must immediately use their Chakra to disperse it.

After giving his instructions, he let them begin their training. He, on the other hand, activated his Byakugan nearby to observe their absorption of Natural Energy and be ready to disperse it externally for them at any moment.

Fortunately, after an hour, both of them absorbed Natural Energy relatively smoothly. Haku, due to his high affinity with Natural Energy, found the energy to be much gentler entering his body compared to Zabuza, making it easy for him to control.

Zabuza, on the other hand, had strong self-control. He only absorbed a small amount of Natural Energy at a time, avoiding greed or rushing. Furthermore, his Chakra was abundant. With the control of his consciousness and the assistance of his Chakra, the small amount of Natural Energy couldn't put up much of a fight.

This put Neji's mind at ease. As long as the first step was taken well, the future would involve repeating this process, slowly increasing and strengthening.

Neither Zabuza nor Haku lacked perseverance. Facing great turmoil in the future, as long as they weren't enemies, they would be allies.

Moreover, what Neji taught them was merely the introductory method for Sage Mode training. The subsequent training techniques were still under his control. Without his guidance, they would forever remain in the preliminary stages of training.

As for the high-concentration Natural Energy extraction technology, Neji kept it completely confidential. Without the aid of a high-concentration Natural Energy training environment and the secret medicinal bath, relying solely on the thin Natural Energy in the Ninja World, let alone improving, it would be difficult to even maintain their current progress.

This also made Neji realize that in any world, in any environment, those who control core technology will always be the most sought after and hold the most power.

To avoid being bottlenecked, the accumulation of knowledge and continuous investment in research and development are essential.

A spirit of courageous exploration is also crucial.

Neji continued to stay on Peach Blossom Island for another seven or eight days.

After confirming that Zabuza and Haku had mastered the method of Sage Mode training, he had them teach what he had given them to the other Chunin.

As for the more than twenty Genin, he left the decision to Zabuza himself: teach those with potential or who were relatively loyal, and disregard the rest.

Neji himself, riding the Thunder Roc, quietly flew back to the capital of the Land of Hot Water—Spring City!