Kai, having attained the rank of Spirit Novice, finds himself immersed in a class with Master Alden in the Spirit Elixirist Department.
A simple greeting of "Good afternoon, sir" marks the beginning of a session delving into the intricacies of crafting pills with higher purity.
For over a week, Kai diligently practices, determined to surpass his previous attempts. Focused and unwavering, he aims to create Spirit Gathering Pills.
As Kai labors, Master Alden observes with a smile, reminiscing about his own humble beginnings.
After an intense period of concentration, Kai sighs with exhaustion, signaling the completion of his task. "Master!" he calls out, summoning Alden to inspect his creations.
A glance from Master Alden prompts Kai to inquire anxiously, "Are they still not good?"
Master Alden, however, responds with a reassuring smile. "Congrats, Kai. You've created six pills of 88% purity and two of 84%. You can now be called a 'Spirit Novice.'"
Elation courses through Kai as he seeks confirmation, and Master Alden nods.
Yet, his mentor advises him not to get overly excited. "You've taken a baby step. Practice more with other pills and aim for purities higher than 80%."
With a more subdued but persistent grin, Kai agrees. The satisfaction shared between Master Alden and Kai emphasizes that progress, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.
As the class concludes, Kai and Master Alden prepare to part ways. Unexpectedly, Master Alden makes a surprising request. "Give me your ID card for a bit."
Curiosity etches Kai's expression as he hands over his ID card, asking, "What do you need it for, sir?"
"Now that you're a Spirit Novice, it needs to be updated on your ID card," explains Master Alden.
He utilizes his Spiritual Energy to effect the changes, and Kai, observing the process, marvels at the density of Master Alden's spiritual essence.
Once the update is complete, Kai's ID card now bears the title "Spirit Novice" alongside his cultivation realm.
Grateful for the change, Kai thanks Master Alden.
"I've done the changes, and your ID card can now automatically record and update your progress," Master Alden informs him.
Expressing his gratitude, Kai bids farewell and proceeds to his next class with Master Alice in the Divyakar Department. The day continues with lessons on weapon crafting and other details, each moment contributing to Kai's growth.
Reflecting on the day's events as he makes his way back to the Combat Department, Kai ponders the significance of his newfound rank and the responsibilities it carries.
Conversing with his friends about the achievement, Kai feels a sense of accomplishment, realizing he has taken a significant stride in his journey.
As the group disperses, Kai walks with a mix of thoughts and emotions. Akane, keenly observant, notices his contemplative state.
She approaches him, tapping his shoulder, and inquires about the nature of his thoughts.
Kai, revealing that Leon's birthday is approaching, expresses his uncertainty about how to celebrate it. Akane, with a casual demeanor, assures him that Leon would appreciate any gesture.
"Hm~~, What's there to think so hard about," Akane states, "As I have seen you guys, I think he'll be happy with anything u give him."
"Really," Kai replies, "then u don't know him fully. He becomes very choosy, but you're right about the part that he'll accept it happily. Still, I am gonna think about it more."
"You both really are good friends," Akane replies.
"Yeah," Kai grins, "He's my Best Friend; nobody can replace him."
"But does it really appear that much on my face when I'm thinking like that?" Kai asks, wondering.
"Of course. Who do you think I am? Even if it hasn't been that much since I came here, I have seen you making expressions during class or while we are sparring," Akane replies, "So it's quite easy for me to tell."
Slightly taken aback by Akane's perceptiveness, Kai mumbles, "Is that so..." as they continue walking.
While they make their way, Kai can't help but muse silently, his grin a subtle attempt to conceal his thoughts. "She really observes a lot, don't know if she's doing it on purpose or she's just an airhead but..."
Realizing his thoughts are drifting, Kai shakes his head to dismiss them. "Alright, Kai, don't think too much; it won't be of any help to you," he reasons with himself.
Upon reaching his home, Kai retires to his room, collapsing onto his bed with his right arm draped across his forehead. A sigh escapes him as he mulls over the day's events.