Nori was able to develop a basic style that was not limited to a specific Qi by extracting key elements from breathing and movements.
However, Nori had not been able to create a specific style yet. But it was only a matter of time. Now that Nori understood what matters in a style or technique, it should be able to copy them.
Additionally, Nori expanded its analysis abilities and added another category: Qi. Although Nori couldn't manipulate the Qi within us, it was capable of perceiving the Qi energy in our bodies and recognizing its flow.
By learning Qi, my Dimensional Storage also expanded to 5 cubic meters. That was more than enough to pack everything useful from the bandits.
"I have the perfect next quest," I said to Mark.
"The Arena in Qi'anju," Mark added, completing my thoughts.
"Exactly!" I exclaimed.
There would be a tournament held there where numerous different fighters would compete for a prize money. It was the perfect place to observe some techniques.
With the tournament in Qi'anju firmly in mind, we set off for that place, which was a two-day journey away from our current position. We left the bandit fortress with its grim memories and the bodies left behind. The honor of the dead meant little to us now, as we only saw their bodies as lifeless matter that could decay.
"It's true," Mark agreed with my thoughts. "Once the soul leaves the body, we are nothing more than material shells. They should stay where they are and serve as compost for nature. It's not our task to bury them all."
And so, we continued our journey, gradually leaving the thoughts of the bandit fortress behind and focusing on the upcoming tournament.
After two days of intense travel and several hours of concentrated work on our scripts, we finally reached the city of Qi'anju. We were filled with anticipation and expectations for the upcoming tournament.
The city welcomed us with its lively atmosphere and bustling activity. People were everywhere, preparing for the event and making final arrangements.
"Two tickets, please," I said, addressing the overly enthusiastic seller.
He looked at us and commented, "I'm sorry, gracious alchemists, but there are no more tickets available. Everything is sold out, including the VIP lounge. I'm afraid I can't make an exception."
Mark suggested, "What if we participate ourselves?"
The seller replied, "Only cultivators with a Golden Core are allowed to participate."
"That shouldn't be a problem," I confidently responded.
"Forgive my skepticism, noble sir, but I would like to verify that," the seller said.
"Of course, no problem," I replied.
He placed his hand on my shoulder and circulated a little Qi.
"Chaos. With this Qi, you won't get far," he concluded.
"Leave that to me," I confidently retorted.
The seller handed us two tokens with the numbers 65 and 66. Then, he pushed aside a curtain and let us enter the area where other fighters were already present. Some were meditating, others were practicing their styles, and some were performing exercises to strengthen their bodies.
We mingled among the fighters, feeling the energy and concentration in the air.
"Now watch and learn: NORI, initiate the analysis."
[Analysis initiated]