When Master Liang gave Spirit-Gathering Pills to Kai and his friends, they felt thrilled about using them.
The entire process filled Kai with anticipation as he hurriedly went home in hopes of experiencing quick results after consuming them.
As soon as he reached his room and shut himself in, all external chatter ceased to exist for him temporarily--he was bent on using this chance optimally!
Even when it was time for dinner with family members afterward, he declined his family's invitation, claiming he wasn't hungry that evening.
Settling on his bed, Kai focused his thoughts and began his gathering spiritual technique. Before starting, he took one of the pills and swallowed it.
Immediately, a surge of spiritual energy coursed through his body, invigorating his senses.
As he continued to absorb the pill's effects, Kai was surprised to feel his skill, spiritual absorption, activating on its own.
With this newfound ability, he absorbed the entire spiritual energy contained within the pill, surpassing the 70% limit that Ms. Mei had mentioned.
This surprising fact left him both amazed and delighted.
Throughout that entire night dedicated solely to cultivating himself after taking this special pill; Kai found himself more motivated than ever before about gathering additional spirit energy frequently and effortlessly thanks to its energizing properties.
The next morning, he followed his usual routine, a happy smile gracing his face as he experienced the lingering effects of the pill.
When he arrived at school and entered Sensei Mei's class, he knew that the day's training would be crucial.
Sensei Mei led the combat department to the training hall, and Kai's anticipation grew as she began addressing the students.
"Now that your physical attributes have improved, it's time to introduce weapon arts into your training," Sensei Mei declared, her voice filled with authority.
She gestured towards a collection of wooden weapons displayed nearby.
As each one quietly contemplated their weapon selection, they mulled over the options available to them before firmly deciding which one suited them best:
Kai went for simplicity using a one-handed sword;
Leon preferred versatility by choosing a blade;
Ethan picked reach and offense with a spear,
Aoi went for precision by selecting twin daggers,
Jackson decided on offensive strength and brutal impact with knuckles;
Sarah hoped to prioritize defense using staff.
Alex favored crowd control abilities through the separate use of dual axes.
Rachel knew she could maximize her speed while opting for rapier;
Michael wasn't afraid of going big with a great sword,
Emily believed the Longbow was best as she could hit from a distance without getting too involved.
Sensei Mei made sure that every student received an expert teacher specializing in each chosen weapon and assigned them accordingly.
With perfect timing Master Liang - an accomplished swordsman - was there to greet Kai as his tutor much to his delight.
"Ah, you've chosen the one-handed sword," Master Liang remarked, a hint of pride in his voice.
"Let's start with the basics. Show me your form, and I'll guide you toward progress."
Although holding a sword was new to Kai, he mustered his determination and approached Master Liang.
With a somewhat clumsy form, he struck at the master from various directions, hoping to land a hit.
But Master Liang, without moving from his spot, effortlessly blocked each strike.
Exhausted and taken aback, Kai eventually lost his grip on his sword.
Master Liang called a halt to their spar, imparting valuable advice.
"You will need to improve many things, but for a first attempt, it was commendable.
Remember, even when struck, do not let go of your sword. Your life could depend on it."
Kai felt a shiver down his spine, realizing the weight of Master Liang's words.
He responded, promising to be more mindful in the future.
Master Liang's stern expression softened, and he chuckled.
"Don't be so tense. It was only your first time. With practice, you'll improve," Master Liang reassured him.
He then outlined Kai's training for the day: 500 vertical strikes with the sword followed by holding the sword for a minimum of 10 minutes, increasing the duration as it became easier.
Kai nodded, determined to follow his master's instructions.
Master Liang dismissed him, advising him to rest for the day.
As the school day came to an end, Kai made his way back home, contemplating the training that lay ahead.