Hae Neul listened attentively as Siegfrieds explained his intention to teach him. However, when the question of how Siegfrieds would train him arose, Hae Neul felt the need to have a heart-to-heart conversation with the person who would become his mentor.
With a voice tinged with uncertainty, Hae Neul began, "Siegfrieds, I need you to know that I'm not someone special. I'm just a loser, a child discarded by my own family, the Shinju Family, simply because I'm a bastard. I've lived my whole life under oppression and humiliation."
He felt the necessity to elaborate on his deeper vulnerabilities. "Moreover, the core of my strength can't contain even the minimal amount required to wield powerful sword techniques. I feel like I've been trapped in a hopeless situation."
Siegfrieds merely smiled, a smile brimming with conviction and hope. "Hae Neul, a legend isn't always born from noble birth or innate strength. A legend is born from determination and hard work. I am a living testament to the symbol of hard work. I trained myself to become the swordmaster I am today, and I believe you can do it too."
He continued, "Your presence here, accepting this offer, is the first step towards change. The core of strength unable to contain mana? It's just a limit we can surpass together. With practice and strong determination, we will make you capable of controlling that power effectively."
Siegfrieds stepped closer to Hae Neul, gently placing his hand on his shoulder. "I will be your mentor, Hae Neul. I will teach you everything I know about swordsmanship and elemental power. And I will ensure that you become the finest swordsman in South Korea, even in the world."
Hae Neul's heart was filled with mixed emotions. He felt fear, but also a growing sense of determination within him. He saw confidence in Siegfrieds' eyes, and it gave him hope that he could truly change, that he could alter his seemingly bleak fate.
With sparkling eyes, Hae Neul nodded.
"I will accept your training wholeheartedly, Siegfrieds. I promise to work hard and never give up."
Siegfrieds smiled with contentment. "That's what I want to hear. Together, we will prove that a loser can become a legend."
When Siegfrieds began his training, Hae Neul followed his instructions with determination. He could sense the energy around him, guiding it into his core located at his navel. However, Siegfrieds' attention was diverted when he noticed the position of Hae Neul's core. Surprise painted his face, revealing his unfamiliarity with such an unusual core placement.
Driven by curiosity, Siegfrieds inquired, "Hae Neul, why did you choose the navel as your core to gather mana? Usually, people use the heart as the center of energy."
Hae Neul felt a bit awkward, but he answered honestly, "In this era, everyone uses the navel as the core to gather mana. Using the heart as the core is no longer taught due to several reasons. Firstly, there's no longer any literature that teaches that technique, and secondly, using the heart as the core is considered dangerous as it can lead to mana overflows that jeopardize the body's balance."
Siegfrieds pondered for a moment, then smiled. "Ah, I see. It's indeed true that techniques and teachings can change over time. While using the navel as the core is more stable and safe, its efficiency is slightly reduced."
He continued in a gentle tone, "However, for this training, I want you to try using the heart as the core. Although it might feel unusual, it will provide a different experience and train your ability to adapt to various situations."
Hae Neul was taken aback by the request. He felt uncertain and a little afraid, but he also believed that Siegfrieds must have his reasons. With mixed emotions, he asked, "How can I change my core to the heart?"
Siegfrieds smiled understandingly. "First, sit comfortably and close your eyes. Focus your energy on your heart, feel it beating within your chest."
Hae Neul followed the instruction and tried to feel the rhythm of his heartbeat. Slowly, he felt connected to that pulse of life.
Siegfrieds went on, "When you feel connected to your heart, imagine the energy from your core at your navel slowly flowing towards your heart. It might feel a little uncomfortable and painful, but let the energy flow gently."
Hae Neul carefully followed the guidance, attempting to visualize the energy flowing towards his heart. As the energy started to flow, he experienced an unfamiliar and somewhat painful sensation, as if something was changing within him.
Siegfrieds continued in a soft voice, "This core transition will feel like a drastic change within you. Initially, you might find it challenging to adjust, but with proper practice, you'll gain control over it."
Hae Neul felt his body tensing as the process unfolded. He sensed a profound transformation within himself, as if his identity was shifting. Despite the pain and discomfort, he believed in this process.
After a while, Siegfrieds allowed Hae Neul to stop the practice. "How do you feel, Hae Neul?" he inquired with genuine concern.
Hae Neul took a deep breath, feeling tired yet also sensing a new sensation within him. "It feels really strange, Siegfrieds. But I believe that this is a necessary step in my journey."
Siegfrieds smiled understandingly.
"It's a bold and crucial step. This training will help you adapt to various situations and face challenges more effectively. Keep practicing; I'll channel my energy to accelerate your progress."
Of course, I'd be happy to help you translate the story into fluent and coherent English while maintaining the casual tone and avoiding overly formal or poetic language. Here's the English version:
"Siegfrieds continued the training, as he wanted to see Hae Neul develop a strong foundation in mana control. Thus, he asked Hae Neul to keep practicing the mana breathing, ensuring that the flow of energy remained steady and controlled.
Hae Neul diligently followed the instructions. Sitting with closed eyes, he absorbed the energy around him and guided it into his new core, his heart. This was a challenging exercise, and he could feel how difficult it was to shift the core from his solar plexus to his heart.
Yet, he didn't give up. His determination was strong, and he knew this was a necessary step on the journey toward greater mastery.
As he continued to practice the mana breathing, he felt the energy gathering more around his heart. Every second, he sensed a stronger connection between himself and his new core. The once-painful sensations slowly diminished, replaced by a growing sense of comfort.
Siegfrieds observed Hae Neul's progress attentively. He knew this was a time-consuming process, but he believed in Hae Neul's immense potential. He also understood that Hae Neul needed a solid foundation in mana control to further develop his abilities.
Several hours passed, and Hae Neul persisted in his training with unwavering focus. He could sense changes within himself. His energy became more centered, and he felt more capable of managing mana. This marked the beginning of his journey to reach the level Siegfrieds had envisioned.
Finally, Siegfrieds gave the instruction to stop the training. Hae Neul opened his eyes with a sense of contentment and a pleasant weariness.
"Well, Siegfrieds?" he inquired, seeking feedback from his mentor.
Siegfrieds smiled with satisfaction.
"You've done well, Hae Neul. I've noticed significant progress in your mana control. Now, you possess the foundation of a 1-Star Master or perhaps even an intermediate 2-Star."
Hae Neul felt pride in his accomplishment. He knew this was just the start of a long journey, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
With a smile, he said,
"Thank you, Siegfrieds. I promise to keep working hard to get better."
Siegfrieds nodded sincerely.
"That's what I want to hear. Now, take a moment to rest. Tomorrow, we'll continue with sword technique training. I'll introduce you to a technique that I'm passing down. You've done well today, Hae Neul."