Kai continued his cultivation, the memory of his recent breakthrough lingering in his thoughts.
He spent an hour or two happily immersed in his thoughts effortlessly replenishing his energy like never before.
Although he could hear the sound of notifications coming from the System he didn't give them thought.
In this situation, he understood that these notifications must be regarding his increased spiritual energy, as he could physically feel the surge within himself.
With his meditation session complete, Kai decided to check the notifications before heading to his classes. He hoped for significant progress.
Opening his notification panel, he saw several entries:
[Spiritual Energy has increased by 2]
[Spiritual Energy has increased by 2]
[Spiritual Energy has increased by 2]
[...]
After checking his notifications Kai's face lit up with excitement. "I just earned 20 points in Spiritual Energy. Looks like a start."
He had been thinking about something that he wanted to discuss with the System. He intended to bring it up once he got back, to his room.
As he left his room he pondered the idea of contacting Rachel. Today they had classes, for Spirit Elixirists and Sacred Artificers. Rachel had opted for the path. He didn't want her to skip her class.
Kai made his way to Rachel's Training Room, knocking lightly on the door. A few seconds passed before Rachel appeared, her concentration broken.
"Hey, I'm off to the Spirit Elixirist class today," Kai began. "I noticed there's also a Sacred Artificer class. Would you like to go together?"
Rachel looked up, a small smile on her face. "Oh, I completely forgot about my class. Thanks for reminding me. I was too focused on gathering spiritual energy. Let's go."
Kai and Rachel left the Combat Department and started a casual conversation on their way to their respective classes.
After a few minutes, Rachel said, "We need to split here. The Sacred Artificer Department is this way. I'll see you later, Kai."
Kai waved, responding, "See you."
As he headed to the Spirit Elixirist Department, he couldn't help but marvel at the intricate and diverse pathways that his fellow students were taking.
Each path held unique challenges and knowledge.
Once at the department, Kai entered the spacious classroom, where he spotted Master Alden.
The teacher sat behind his desk, engrossed in a book whose title Kai couldn't discern.
Kai approached the desk. "Good afternoon, Master Alden."
Master Alden looked up from his book and offered a warm smile. "Good afternoon, Kai."
Kai took a moment, searching for the right words. "I was wondering why there aren't more students here today."
Master Alden leaned back, regarding Kai with an amused expression. "Well, there aren't many Spirit Elixirists, Kai."
Kai was curious about why this was the case. "But why?"
Master Alden replies "This path is challenging, and it can be perilous, Kai. Those who choose it must have determination and a deep love for nature."
Perplexed, Kai asked, "Perilous? In what way?"
Master Alden's chuckle filled the room. "I see you're not entirely aware of what it means to be a Spirit Elixirist. Let me explain.
You see, Spirit Elixirists specialize in creating pills and elixirs that aid in cultivation and enhance a martial artist's progress."
Kai nodded, having some background knowledge.
Master Alden continued, "These pills and elixirs are derived from herbs that grow in the wild. And as you know, many of these herbs are found in forests."
Kai began to grasp the complexity of the role. "So, we gather herbs from the forests, but why is that dangerous?"
Master Alden laughed. "Ah, you didn't understand? You see, as a Spirit Elixirist, you must venture into the forests to collect these herbs yourself.
The problem lies in the fact that the forests have grown denser and larger due to the surge of spiritual energy.
As a result, the animals that inhabit these forests have grown stronger, some even fearsome."
Kai was astounded by this revelation. "So you mean the students have to face these formidable creatures while collecting herbs?"
Master Alden nodded. "Indeed. And there's another issue. If you send someone else to collect the herbs, there's a risk of mishandling.
The quality of the herbs can diminish, leading to less effective pills and elixirs."
Kai was beginning to understand why there were so few Spirit Elixirist students. "So, it's not just about the herbs; it's about the whole experience."
Master Alden chuckled. "Precisely. And now, knowing all this, do you still wish to attend the class, Kai?"
Without hesitation, Kai responded, "Yes. I love nature and animals. If I can explore the forest while doing something I'm passionate about, why not?"
Master Alden smiled warmly at Kai's response. "Well, that's certainly not the answer I anticipated but I'm glad to hear it.
It's great to know you're open, to learning."
Kai reclined comfortably in his chair. "Now Master Alden you inquired about my expedition, to Naimisha Forest. I'd be delighted to share the details with you."
Leaning forward eagerly Master Alden's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "I'm all ears, Kai. How did your adventure unfold?"
Kai proceeded to recount his recent journey and the remarkable experiences he had encountered. He omitted some details, like the wolf and the Earth Energy site.
After he finished the story, Master Alden couldn't contain his interest. "How do you feel about your little adventure?"
Kai couldn't help but smile. "It was amazing."