ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Xianxia (genre)

Xianxia is a type of story that comes from Chinese culture. It's like a special kind of book or TV show that's all about adventure and magic.

In a xianxia story, the main character, usually a young person, learns a special magic power that lets them control the energy of the world around them. This magic power is called "qi" (pronounced like "chee").

With their magic powers, the main character goes on adventures, fights fierce battles, and meets other characters, some of whom become their friends and some of whom become their enemies.

One of the most important aspects of a xianxia story is the idea of cultivation. This means that the main character has to work really hard to get stronger and better at their magic powers. They have to practice things like meditation, martial arts, and sometimes even eating special foods or taking magic pills.

In xianxia stories, there are often different levels of power that the main character can attain. They start off as a weakling, but with diligent cultivation, they can become more powerful and eventually reach a kind of enlightenment known as "ascension."

There are also lots of fantastical creatures in xianxia stories, like dragons, phoenixes, and unicorns. These creatures are often revered for their magical powers, and the main character may have to fight them in order to prove themselves worthy.

Overall, xianxia stories are full of adventure, magic, and personal growth. They're a lot of fun to read or watch, and they give us a glimpse into the rich mythology and culture of China.