Four months. That's how long it took Bale to recover from his injuries, both internal and external. Of course, it wasn't solely due to his own will and determination. It was also thanks to the constant care of Shale, who would tend to him daily, as well as the elders who supplemented the lack of healing items with body strengthening ones, as well as what few herbs and tonics they were able to procure. Though they were not sure if it would prove to be useful, they figured it would, at the very least, allow him to continue on his martial path. Besides, what were a few more scars on him, anyway? He already had one giant one across his neck.
Bale did not slack off in his training during these four months. Though he could not do much in the way of physical training, aside from some light training after a few weeks, he could meditate each day. And meditate he did! For hours each day he would sit and meditate, imitating his actions that he had learned from his observations of his peers.
On the sixth day of the third month there was a rumble. Not a low one that many knew to be the sign of one achieving a breakthrough, but not a great one that signified the birth of a grandmaster. Many were curious, wanting to know what this signified, and who was the cause of such a rumble. Yet no one came forward to be acknowledged of a breakthrough. Only two people knew what, or rather who, the cause of the rumble was - Bale, who had just succeeded in condensing his aura, and elder Bi Lan, head of the sect.
Bale did not stop his meditations, though, for he had learned of the importance of having a solid and firm foundation for future breakthroughs. He began to solidify his aura, condensing it even more. He continued to do this for the final seven weeks of his recovery. By the time he stepped out of his small abode, he aura was near yet another breakthrough. It was strong and unshakable, sturdy and firm. He could feel the power coursing through his body, making him feel light and full of energy. He was certain that if Quan Hanzou were to attempt to challenge him now, he'd have no problem fending him off. He may not be able to win, but he would by no means lose. At least, not lose as nearly as badly as he originally had.
But first, before anything, he needed a bath. He stunk! His hair was shiny and his face was oily. Stretching, his bones cracked and popped. He stretched his body - his arms, legs, his back. He rolled his neck, causing it to pop as well. He felt good, and he was excited for the cleaning, because it would make him feel great! And once he felt great, he could continue his training.
Bale began to make his way toward the bathing pond with excitement. partially due to the fact that he was going to get clean, partially due to the fact that he would be able to take up his sword once again, and partially due to the fact that he could finally move around and walk without being in pain. But alas, that excitement didn't get to last long, for just after his sixth step, an old man walked out in front of him and stopped, facing him. There was nothing unusual about this old man that Bale could see, nor was there noticeable murderous intent or threatening aura. His smile felt warm and inviting. Yet, though his arms were behind his back and his stance seemed relaxed, something told Bale that this old man could react to any of his strikes and counter him.
"Now, now, no need to be so worked up, young man," the elder spoke in a calm, friendly manner. "I had originally planned to come take you in as my disciple, to teach you all about aura, a proper martial arts that is befitting you, among other things. Yet, looking at you before me, it seems you have already taken your first steps, seeing as how you have already successfully solidified your aura."
Bale was thoroughly confused by this old man. Who was he? The only people he had ever seen were his fellow disciples.. Apparently it was evident on his face, for the elder said, "Confused, are you? Maybe this will help you." He reached into his robes and pulled out a token. An ornate token, in fact. It was about the size of an adults palm, with a dragon head engraved on one side, and the word 'leader' engraved on the other.
Bale still shook his head, still confused as to who this man was. Seeing this, the old man sighed, putting away the token. "I am the sect leader, Bi Lan. I come before you to take you in as my personal disciple. Does that answer your questions, young man?"