Feeling emboldened by his recent progress, Vaughn decided to push his limits even further. He approached the control panel of the sparring dolls and hesitated for only a moment before selecting the highest difficulty: the 9th star level. He knew this was a significant leap from his previous training, but he was eager to test his skills against the most challenging opponent available.
The doll activated, its eyes glowing with an intense light as it readied itself for combat. Vaughn took a deep breath, focusing his mind and body, ready to employ the full extent of the Gale Technique he had learned.
Without warning, the doll lunged forward with a lightning-fast sword attack. Vaughn barely managed to react in time, his Gale Steps allowing him to sidestep the initial strike. However, the sheer speed and power of the doll's movements were overwhelming. Before he could regain his footing, a follow-up strike from the doll's sword sent him flying through the air.
He crashed through the wall of the training area, debris scattering around him as he landed heavily on the ground. Dazed and winded, Vaughn groaned in pain, struggling to sit up. As he gathered his bearings, he realized he had landed right in front of Nova, who had come to check on him.
Nova's eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Vaughn's dramatic entrance. For a moment, she seemed concerned, but her expression quickly shifted to one of amusement.
"Well, if you wanted to make a grand entrance, you certainly succeeded," she said with a playful grin. "I've seen some intense greetings, but this takes the cake."
Vaughn couldn't help but chuckle despite his aches and bruises. "Yeah, I guess I went a little overboard with my training," he admitted, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.
Nova extended a hand to help him up. "Are you okay? That looked pretty rough."
He took her hand and got to his feet, wincing slightly. "I'll live. Just underestimated the 9th star level. That doll's speed was insane."
"Sounds like you could use a break," Nova suggested, her tone light but concerned. "You've been pushing yourself pretty hard."
Vaughn nodded, appreciating her concern. "Yeah, maybe you're right. A short break won't hurt."
As they walked back to their training area, Nova glanced at him with a teasing smile. "So, what's the plan now? More flying lessons or are you going to try a different approach?"
Vaughn laughed. "Definitely a different approach. I think I need to refine my techniques a bit more before taking on the 9th star again."
Nova nodded approvingly. "Good idea. You've made amazing progress, Vaughn. Just don't push yourself too hard. We've still got time in the secret realm, and there's no point in getting yourself seriously hurt."
Her words were a reminder of the balance he needed to maintain in his training. While pushing his limits was essential for growth, he also needed to pace himself to avoid unnecessary risks.
The first month in the secret realm had passed, and during this time, Vaughn and Nova had grown very close. Their shared experiences and mutual support had forged a strong bond between them. Vaughn, now on the verge of breaking through to the 4th star of the Foundation stage, decided it was time for another intensive session in the meditation chamber.
Determined to accelerate his progress, Vaughn gathered fifty low-grade cultivation pills, a substantial amount that he hoped would provide the necessary boost to his qi. He settled into the meditation chamber, the serene environment designed to enhance focus and energy absorption. Taking a deep breath, he swallowed all fifty pills at once, feeling the surge of qi flood his body.
Almost immediately, he realized the severity of his decision. His muscles began to spasm uncontrollably, and intense pain radiated through his entire body. It felt as if his very veins were on fire, the raw energy from the pills overwhelming his system. Vaughn gritted his teeth, forcing himself to endure the agony, knowing that this was a crucial step toward his breakthrough.
Sweat poured down his face as he struggled to maintain control. The qi within him was chaotic, threatening to tear him apart from the inside. He focused on his breathing, using the techniques from the Gale Manual to try and stabilize the wild energy coursing through him. Each breath was a battle, but he could feel the energy slowly starting to coalesce, aligning with the pathways in his body.
As the minutes dragged on, Vaughn's vision blurred, and his limbs felt heavy. He was on the brink of losing consciousness, but a faint, familiar voice broke through the haze.
"Vaughn! Are you okay?" It was Nova, her voice filled with worry. She had sensed something was wrong and had rushed to his side.
Through sheer willpower, Vaughn forced his eyes open. Nova's face came into focus, her expression a mix of concern and determination.
"Hold on, Vaughn. I'm here," she said, placing her hands on his shoulders. "You can do this. Just breathe."
Her presence was a lifeline, anchoring him in the storm of energy. Vaughn focused on her voice, using it as a guide to steady his chaotic qi. Gradually, the pain began to subside, and the energy within him started to flow more smoothly.
Hours passed, and finally, the qi settled into a harmonious rhythm. Vaughn felt a profound shift within him as he reached the 4th star of the Foundation stage. The pain ebbed away, replaced by a powerful sense of clarity and strength.
Exhausted but triumphant, Vaughn opened his eyes fully and smiled weakly at Nova. "I did it," he whispered.
Nova smiled back, relief evident in her eyes. "I knew you would. But maybe next time, don't take so many pills at once, okay?"
Vaughn chuckled, though it hurt to laugh. "Yeah, lesson learned."
With Nova's help, he stood up, feeling the new power coursing through him. This breakthrough had been a harsh lesson in the dangers of overreaching, but it also underscored the importance of having trusted allies. As they left the meditation chamber, Vaughn knew that the journey ahead would be filled with challenges, but he also knew he wouldn't face them alone.