I want to know the answer to the following question:
How many realms were commonly thought of as being linked by a natural cycle?
All the background I'm provided with is that "In addition to his many other roles, the emperor acted as the highest priest in the land who made sacrifices to Heaven, the main deities known as the Five Powers, and the spirits (shen 神) of mountains and rivers.". Is that enough to answer the question?
Answer: no