The Living Goddess And Her Cursed Apprentice Chapter 1: The Cultivator World and the Chinese Zodiac

In a mystical world governed by the celestial forces of the Chinese zodiac, every person was born under a sign that influenced their destiny and abilities. These signs were more than mere symbols; they were the very essence of the people, determining their strengths, weaknesses, and their place in the societal hierarchy.

One serene afternoon, Zhang Ling, known as the Living Goddess, walked through a small village nestled in the mountains. Her presence commanded reverence and awe, for she was not only over 400 years old but also the most powerful cultivator known. Her serene beauty and ageless wisdom were legendary.

Zhang Ling

I sense a disturbance in the flow of energy here. Something is not right.

As she wandered through the village, she noticed a young boy crying in an alley. His clothes were tattered, and his face was smeared with dirt and tears. Zhang Ling's heart ached at the sight of him.

Zhang Ling

(softly) "Child, what troubles you?"

The boy looked up, his eyes wide with fear and awe. He hesitated before speaking, his voice trembling.

Li Jin

"My stepmother... she did something to me. My powers... they're all wrong."

Zhang Ling knelt beside him, placing a gentle hand on his forehead. She closed her eyes, sensing the twisted energy within him.

Zhang Ling

A powerful curse... dark magic has tainted his essence.

Zhang Ling

: "Fear not, young one. I shall help you."

With a wave of her hand, she began to untangle the dark threads of the curse. The process was delicate and required immense concentration. As she worked, the boy's body began to relax, the tension melting away.

Li Jin

(feeling a warmth spreading through him) This... this feels different. So soothing...

After what seemed like an eternity, Zhang Ling finished purging the corruption from his system.

Zhang Ling

"There, it is done. How do you feel?"

Li Jin

(tears of relief streaming down his face) "Thank you, goddess. I feel... clearer. Like a weight has been lifted."

Zhang Ling

"What is your name, child?"

Li Jin

"Li Jin."

Zhang Ling

"Li Jin, you have been through much for one so young. Would you like to come with me? I can teach you to control your powers and protect you from further harm."

Li Jin hesitated, his eyes searching Zhang Ling's face for any sign of deceit. Finding none, he nodded vigorously.

Li Jin

"Yes, please. I want to be strong like you."

Zhang Ling

(smiling warmly) "Very well, Li Jin. From this day forth, you shall be my apprentice."

As Li Jin followed the Living Goddess out of the village, he felt a sense of hope and determination he had never known before. He glanced back at the village one last time, then turned to face his new future with Zhang Ling.

Zhang Ling

"Li Jin, do you know much about the cultivator world?"

Li Jin

"Not really. My stepmother didn’t teach me much, only enough to keep me quiet."

Zhang Ling

I see. Well, the cultivator world is divided into ranks according to the Chinese zodiac. Each sign has its own unique attributes and strengths.

Li Jin

Like the dragon? I’ve heard stories about powerful dragons.

Zhang Ling

Yes, the dragon sign is one of the most revered. Those born under the dragon sign possess immense power and potential."

Li Jin

What about you, goddess? What’s your sign?"

Zhang Ling

I am a dragon, Li Jin. That is why I have lived for so long and possess such power."

Li Jin

"Will I be able to be as strong as you one day?"

Zhang Ling

With hard work and dedication, you can achieve greatness. Now, let us begin your training."

Li Jin

(determined) "I won’t let you down, goddess. I promise."

As the sun set on their first day together, Zhang Ling knew she had made the right choice in taking Li Jin under her wing. The boy had immense potential, and with proper guidance, he could become a force for good in their world. For Li Jin, this was the beginning of a new life—a life filled with hope, learning, and the promise of greatness.