Paths of Enlightenment

Throughout civilizations, I have noticed many cultures adopt certain principles and ideologies that allow them to survive and potentially prosper before the Paradise awakening. These principles illuminate the path to wisdom, growth, and interconnectedness. They shape the cultures of kingdoms and forge the identities of cultures and therefore the people as well. While there are a variety of different cultures, there are 3 common trends. I call them the Paths of Enlightenment, consisting of the Path of Self-Mastery, Path of Interconnected Bonds, and the Path of Natural Harmony.

Path to Self-Mastery

This philosophy centers around the idea of a relentless pursuit for self-improvement and personal mastery, instilling a deep sense of individual responsibility for one's own development. People who adhere to this path tend to view each challenge as an opportunity for growth, pushing their physical and mental boundaries through disciplined training regimens. Sheer determination and willpower are a necessity, leading to greatness. With enough training and resilience, they are able to surpass their personal limits and achieve powerful feats, both in the mind and in the body. Its potential lies in the amount of proper training and discipline. Below are the common manifestations that follow after disciplined training.

Streak of Light

Many who follow the Path of Self-Mastery have reported witnessing a streak of light, after intense effort when facing a difficult obstacle or task. During an intense battle, soldiers may find this flash of light across an opponent's weak spot and strike the area, finishing them off in a devastating blow. When solving a difficult puzzle, scholars may find this streak of light striking their heads and offering them a realization. While its appearance may differ for each circumstance, its emergence is never to be mistaken. Many long to experience its guiding light.

Dancing

Different locations have shown the prominence of dance and its effects. Dedication to the discipline provides one with extraordinary ability, wielding its effects to shape reality. Its effects depend on the choreography and movements of the body. A dancer's performance is not merely for show, but to provide strength to the user and others, though based on discovery, there are cases where dances may provide the opposite effect. As the years go by, dances continue to evolve, displaying feats never seen before.

Many would argue that dancing could not follow the Path to Self-Mastery, since almost all cultures contain some integration of dance. I would like to argue that all forms and choreography of dance require a mastery of the body and mind. All dancers admit that while they receive their power from other sources, it is only after mastery that they are able to achieve it.

— Marley

Path to Interconnected Bonds

This philosophy focuses on unity and interconnectedness, forging bonds and alliances and/or honoring the bonds between the living and the departed. Diplomacy is an art, and rituals have the ability to bridge the realms, connecting hearts and minds together. People who follow this philosophy recognize the importance of forging meaningful connections and the strength that they bring. These connections can allow an individual to overcome any obstacle with only the memory and support of their loved ones. This encourages the seeking of guidance from others and the fostering of a community. The potential of one bond is dependent on how strong the relationship is or was. Below are the common manifestations that follow with strong human connections.

Visions and Voices

With a strong enough bond, one may experience a vision or a voice of their comrade or loved one. This vision and voice tend to provide guidance and wisdom through a difficult situation or even unlock a power previously hidden within a person. The vision and voice is independent from its source, meaning that the friend would not recall the wisdom provided by the vision and voice. Other persons would not be able to see or hear this. Whether from the living or the departed, a friendly face is always welcome during troubling times. The opposite effect is also possible, greatly weakening one's ability to think and act, due to a negative bond or relationship.

Manifestations

In more extreme cases, a manifestation of the departed can appear in the form of a spirit. This spirit is able to interact with the world physically, albeit temporarily. Manifestation seems to be possible only through intensely strong bonds or dedicated rituals and ceremonies.

While I have not experienced this phenomenon firsthand, I have received many testimonies from more personal experiences and religious ceremonies from patriarchs. I wish to confirm this with my own eyes soon.

— Marley

Path to Natural Harmony

This philosophy celebrates the beauty and balance of the natural world, aiming to protect the harmony of existence and the world we live in. People who commit to this philosophy learn to appreciate the harmony of the elements and understand the interconnectedness of everything. They place great importance on sensing nature and balance. Those who see this connection see all the world has to offer, discovering nature's secrets and capitalizing on it. An open mind and body pave the way for many strong opportunities to grow and connect, possibly through abilities never before seen. With such a deep connection, one may even be one step closer to Paradise. Below are the common manifestations that follow through a strong interconnection with the world.

Time Stop

Some report witnessing time itself stops before them during peak distress or during an intense situation. With time stopped, they are able to observe everything as it is and possibly what will be, which helps in making quick and important decisions. While they are unable to move during this period, their interconnection to the world provides them with a third-view perspective. They find themselves more attuned to their senses and have an increased perception of their environment. When time finally continues, no other creature would be aware of the phenomenon.

Aether Visualization

Cultures mention an invisible force called Aether, particles that shape the world we live in, an essence that provides people the ability to bend and build their bodies. It thrives everywhere you go and is invisible to the naked eye. However, some claim to be able to see this fundamental building block, with enough devotion. Those who see Aether can witness the particles resonate within a creature's body, seeing how they manipulate Aether intuitively. They are able to identify which areas are filled with life and which are slowly fading.

Combination of the Three Paths

Keep in mind that while many cultures tend to adhere to one of three paths, individuals may find themselves experiencing different manifestations within their lifetime. Strong warriors and scholars alike find these different practices and philosophies as a tool to further one's understanding of themselves and the world around them. They may choose to be committed to two or even all three paths in their developments.

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