Chapter 30: Astra flora flower
Jin had spent the morning contemplating his next steps. The thought of Edward Lee's injuries and the concept of cultivation fascinated him. Determined to learn more and assist Edward, he decided to visit the old man's villa. The address Edward had given him was just a short drive from his own place, so Jin set out in his Bugatti, the powerful engine humming as he navigated through the city's bustling streets.
Upon arriving at Edward's villa, Jin was impressed by its grandeur. The entrance was guarded by high walls and a large iron gate. As Jin approached, he noticed a security guard blocking his path.
"Good afternoon, sir. Do you have an appointment?" the guard asked, eyeing Jin with curiosity.
"I'm here to see Edward Lee," Jin replied, maintaining a calm demeanor. "He's expecting me."
The guard seemed doubtful, but before he could respond, Jin decided to call Edward. He pulled out his phone and dialed Edward's number.
"Hello, Mr. Lee? It's Jin," he said once Edward answered. "I'm at your gate, but the guard won't let me in."
"Ah, Jin! Apologies for the inconvenience. I'll come out to get you," Edward replied.
Within minutes, Edward appeared at the gate, smiling warmly. "Let him through," he instructed the guard.
Jin followed Edward through the lush gardens that surrounded the villa. The place was a perfect blend of traditional and modern architecture, exuding an air of tranquility. They entered a large, open living room where Edward gestured for Jin to sit.
"Please, make yourself comfortable," Edward said, taking a seat opposite Jin. "So, what brings you to my humble abode?"
Jin smiled. "I wanted to discuss your injuries and see if there's anything I can do to help. Also, I was hoping we could train together."
Edward's eyes lit up with interest. "That's very kind of you, Jin. My injuries are quite old and complicated, but I appreciate your concern. As for training, I would be delighted to practice with you."
Jin nodded, grateful for the opportunity. "Let's start with some martial arts. I'd like to show you the Phantom Fist again."
Edward led Jin to a training facility located at the back of the villa. The facility was spacious, equipped with various martial arts training tools. They stood in the center, and Jin began to demonstrate the Phantom Fist technique with precision and speed. Edward watched intently, his eyes following Jin's movements.
"Impressive," Edward remarked. "Now, show me the finer points so I can learn."
Jin took his time explaining the intricacies of the Phantom Fist, guiding Edward through each step. The old man followed diligently, but his movements were occasionally hindered by his injuries. Despite this, Edward showed remarkable resilience and determination.
After an intense training session, they sat down to rest. Jin couldn't help but ask, "Is there truly no way to help you recover fully?"
Edward smiled "Unless you have an Astra Flora flower, I'm out of luck."
Jin furrowed his brow, recalling the name from somewhere. "Astra Flora flower? What's that?"
Edward chuckled. "It's a rare and mystical flower known for its incredible healing properties. It's said to restore damaged meridians and enhance one's cultivation abilities. But it's almost impossible to find."
Jin nodded thoughtfully, deciding to keep the information to himself for now. He didn't want to raise Edward's hopes prematurely. "Let's continue training," he said, helping Edward to his feet.
They resumed their training, focusing on different techniques and exercises. Jin admired Edward's dedication and grit, despite the old man's limitations. The session ended with Edward panting heavily, his face pale but determined.
"Jin," Edward said, as they sat down again, "I'm curious. How do you know so much about martial arts?"
Jin hesitated for a moment. "I've had some unusual experiences," he said vaguely, not wanting to delve into the details of his system just yet.
Edward nodded, sensing Jin's reluctance. "I understand. Everyone has their secrets."
Jin decided to take a different approach. "Mr. Lee, how are you able to cultivate? I thought cultivation only existed in novels and anime."
Edward laughed heartily, his voice echoing through the training facility. "Oh, Jin. Do you really believe that? Let me show you something."
Edward raised his hand, and to Jin's astonishment, a small flame of spiritual qi appeared, flickering in the air. The old man's face turned serious, but before he could speak, he began to cough violently, blood staining his lips.
Jin rushed to his side, supporting him. "Are you okay?"
Edward nodded weakly, wiping the blood away. "This is the consequence of my damaged meridians. But you see, cultivation is very real."
Jin couldn't believe his eyes. The sight of the spiritual qi flame had shattered his previous conceptions. "Can you teach me how to cultivate?" he asked eagerly.
Edward smiled, despite his pain. "I can guide you, but the path of cultivation is long and arduous."
Jin nodded, ready to embark on this new journey. Edward instructed him to sit down and close his eyes. Placing a hand on Jin's back, Edward began to inject small amounts of spiritual qi into Jin's body. Jin felt a strange sensation, like a warm current flowing through him.
"Focus on your breathing and let the qi flow naturally," Edward instructed.
Jin followed his guidance, feeling the energy within him grow. It was a surreal experience, unlike anything he had felt before. When Edward finally removed his hand, Jin felt invigorated, as if a new power had awakened within him.
"That was amazing," Jin said, opening his eyes. "Thank you, Mr. Lee."
Edward smiled warmly. "You have great potential, Jin. With proper training, you could become a formidable cultivator."
As they wrapped up their session, Jin couldn't stop thinking about the Astra Flora flower. He decided to check his system's shop once more. To his astonishment, there it was: the Astra Flora flower, priced at 6 points.
Jin hesitated, knowing that purchasing the flower would leave him with only 2 points. But seeing Edward's condition and the potential for healing, he made up his mind. He would buy the flower and give it to Edward tomorrow, making sure it seemed less suspicious.
For now, he decided to say his goodbyes. "Mr. Lee, thank you for your time and guidance. I'll be back soon."
Edward nodded. "Take care, Jin. And remember, cultivation requires patience and perseverance."
Jin waved goodbye as he got into his Bugatti, watching as Edward's personal chauffeur and bodyguard stood by. He couldn't help but feel a deep sense of respect for the old man and a renewed determination to help him.
Back at his villa, Jin felt a sense of accomplishment. He had taken the first steps into the world of cultivation, and he was eager to learn more. The system had once again proven to be a source of incredible power and opportunities.
He sat down, reflecting on the day's events. The encounter with Edward had opened his eyes to a new realm of possibilities. Jin felt a sense of purpose, knowing that he could help Edward and, in turn, learn more about cultivation.
Jin decided to check the system's shop again, just to be sure. There it was, the Astra Flora flower, glowing softly on the interface. He took a deep breath and made the purchase, watching as the flower materialized in front of him. It was beautiful, with petals that shimmered like emeralds.
"I'll give this to Edward tomorrow," Jin thought, placing the flower in a safe box. He couldn't wait to see the old man's reaction and the potential healing it could bring.
As he prepared for bed, Jin felt a sense of calm and determination, he was on a path that combined wealth, power, and ancient wisdom. The future was filled with possibilities, and Jin was ready to embrace them all.
The next morning, Jin woke up early, eager to visit Edward and present him with the Astra Flora flower. He dressed in a comfortable yet stylish outfit and made his way to the kitchen for a quick breakfast. The anticipation of seeing Edward's reaction kept him energized.
As he drove to Edward's villa, the city seemed to pass by in a blur. Jin's mind was focused on the task at hand. He arrived at the villa's entrance and was greeted by the same security guard. This time, there was no hesitation as he was allowed through.
Edward greeted him warmly at the door, looking slightly better than the previous day. "Good morning, Jin. What brings you here so early?"
Jin smiled, holding up the safe box. "I have something for you."
Edward's eyes widened in curiosity. "What is it?"
Jin opened the box, revealing the Astra Flora flower. The old man's face lit up with astonishment and disbelief. "Is that… the Astra Flora flower?"
Jin nodded. "Yes, it is. I thought it might help with your injuries."
Edward's hands trembled as he took the flower. "This… this is incredible, Jin. How did you find it?"
Jin smiled mysteriously. "Let's just say I have my ways."
Edward looked deeply moved, tears welling up in his eyes. "Thank you, Jin. This means more to me than you can imagine."
They moved to the training facility, where Edward carefully prepared the flower for use. Jin watched as the old man consumed the petals, a warm glow enveloping his body. Edward closed his eyes, focusing on the healing