The Living Goddess And Her Cursed Apprentice Chapter 2: Li Jin's Tragic Backstory

As days turned into weeks, Li Jin's training under Zhang Ling began to show remarkable progress. But the shadows of his past still haunted him, and Zhang Ling knew that for him to truly flourish, those wounds needed to heal.

One evening, as they sat by a tranquil pond under the moonlit sky, Zhang Ling gently broached the subject of his past.

Zhang Ling

"Li Jin, to fully harness your potential, you must confront the pain that holds you back. Tell me about your stepmother."

Li Jin

(voice trembling) "My father remarried after my mother passed away. At first, everything seemed fine... she seemed kind and caring."

Zhang Ling

"But then?"

Li Jin

"But then she changed. She hated that I had powers, said I was cursed. She would say terrible things when my father wasn't around, calling me a monster."

Zhang Ling

Did your father ever suspect anything?"

Li Jin

(shakes his head) "No. He was always away on business, leaving me alone with her. She took advantage of that."

Li Jin paused, gathering his thoughts. His eyes reflected the pain of his memories, but also a spark of determination.

Li Jin

One night, she found an old book hidden in our attic. It was filled with forbidden knowledge—dark magic. She used it to corrupt my powers."

Zhang Ling

How did she manage to curse you without your father's knowledge?"

Li Jin

She was careful. She would perform the rituals when he was away. I remember the pain, the feeling of my powers being twisted inside me. She said she wanted to rid me of my 'abnormalities.

Zhang Ling

(sighing) "I'm sorry you had to endure such cruelty, Li Jin. But you are safe now, and you are stronger than she ever imagined."

Li Jin

"Thank you, Zhang Ling. I want to learn, to be strong like you. To protect myself and others from people like her."

As the moon cast a silver glow over the pond, Zhang Ling shared more about the cultivator world, helping Li Jin understand the vastness of his new life.

Zhang Ling

"The world is filled with magic, and it is divided by the Chinese zodiac. Each sign has its own unique attributes and strengths. You must understand these to harness your full potential."

Li Jin

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

Zhang Ling

Yes, the dragon is one of the most revered signs, symbolizing power and wisdom. There are twelve signs in total, each contributing to the balance of our world

Li Jin

What about the other signs? Can you tell me about them?

Zhang Ling

"Of course. The Rat is resourceful and quick-witted. The Ox embodies strength and perseverance. The Tiger is fierce and courageous. The Rabbit is gentle and compassionate, often with great healing abilities. The Dragon, as you know, is powerful and wise. The Snake is cunning and intuitive. The Horse is free-spirited and energetic. The Goat is creative and thoughtful. The Monkey is clever and curious. The Rooster is disciplined and meticulous. The Dog is loyal and protective. Finally, the Pig is generous and diligent."

Li Jin

"So many different traits and abilities... it’s incredible."

Zhang Ling

"Understanding these traits will help you interact with other cultivators, forging alliances and recognizing potential threats."

As Li Jin absorbed this knowledge, a deepening connection to the world around him grew within him. He began to see the intricate dance of energies that shaped their destiny and understood the delicate balance that governed their lives.

Zhang Ling

"Remember, Li Jin, mastery is not just about power. It’s about understanding your place in the world and the harmony of all things."

Li Jin

I will, Zhang Ling. I promise to honor these teachings."

With each passing day, the bond between Li Jin and Zhang Ling grew stronger. In Zhang Ling, Li Jin found a mentor, a protector, and a guiding light. And in Li Jin, Zhang Ling saw a spark of greatness that, with the right nurturing, could change the fate of their world.