It was difficult for Han Yu, given his adult mindset. Most things no longer swayed him emotionally. He could handle challenges and setbacks, but experiences like losing a loved one or sacrificing a close friend were different—they were simply unacceptable.
He was also resolute in his relationships; he would never take advantage of his friends or family. Those who unlocked the Mangekyō
Sharingan often did so from either emotional immaturity or intense love. However, Han Yu's situation with the Sharingan was unique, as it manifested in the form of a martial spirit.
He wondered if the method for upgrading it might be different. Would he still need to follow the conventional path of cultivating a romantic bond? The thought made him chuckle bitterly. "Come to life, my sweetheart?" he mused.
Shaking his head, he dismissed the idea. Not only was it unreliable, but it would also require him to invest genuine feelings—feelings he wasn't sure he could handle if he were to lose someone special. The thought left him conflicted, knowing he needed to focus on his training and the future instead.
"Maybe I'll end up being crazier than others," Han Yu thought, but he quickly shifted his focus as Du Bu Si spoke.
"Okay, Han Yu, let's see how much your soul power has increased," Du Bu Si said, retrieving a crystal ball. While he had a rough estimate of Han Yu's power, he preferred the precision of the crystal ball.
"Yes, Teacher!" Han Yu replied. He placed his hands on the crystal ball and infused it with a touch of white soul power. Slowly, the ball began to glow.
One, two, three… The light spread steadily, and soon it filled about 80% of the crystal ball.
"Eighth level soul power! Not bad," Du Bu Si noted, a satisfied smile on his face as he took back the crystal ball.
"Next, you'll practice with me, and I'll train you well!" An enigmatic look flickered in Du Bu Si's eyes.
"Yes, Teacher!" Han Yu responded, feeling a mix of excitement and determination.
Han Yu didn't press for more details; he trusted that Du Bu Si must have a unique training method in mind. He recalled how most people began their soul ring journey with two yellow rings before their divine tests. Given Du Bu Si's past, starting with two yellow rings and ultimately reaching three hundred-thousand-year soul rings was impressive. In combat, even Xuanzi, the Supreme Elder of the Holy Spirit Sect, couldn't rival him.
"Clean up, then come to the main hall and wait for me," Du Bu Si instructed. "I need to handle some sect affairs, and then we'll head out to practice."
Han Yu was taken aback. He hadn't even spent a full day in the Body Sect, and already they were preparing to go out? Curiosity mixed with excitement. What kind of training awaited him outside?
Han Yu knew there wasn't much to tidy up—just a few sets of clothes. He picked up his small package and headed straight for the main hall.
Meanwhile, inside the main hall, Du Bu Si met with the Golden Body Douluo.
"Lao Jin, I'm taking Han Yu out for training next. I'll leave the sect's affairs in your hands," Du Bu Si said, settling into a chair and sipping his tea.
"Tch, as if you ever handle things in the sect! Just go. I'll manage everything here," Golden Body Douluo replied, unfazed by Du Bu Si's words.
It was a familiar dynamic; Du Bu Si often preferred to focus on cultivation rather than the mundane responsibilities of leadership.
Du Bu Si was deeply focused on cultivation and usually left the mundane tasks to others.
"Then it's settled. I'll take him to the beach for training. It might take some time," he said.
"The beach? Are you really going to use that method on him?" Golden Body Douluo replied, surprised.
"With his current physical condition, that could be dangerous. You might accidentally kill him!" he cautioned, feeling a twinge of sympathy for Han Yu.
"Haha, don't worry. He's not like ordinary children. I'll gradually increase the difficulty," Du Bu Si reassured him. "This is my next heir. As long as he doesn't die, he needs to train hard. I won't let him suffer secretly."
"Okay, Lao Jin, I'll be taking the sect's big cauldron. I have big plans for it." With that, Du Bu Si waved and left the side hall.
Golden Body Douluo opened his mouth to say more but ultimately sighed, shaking his head.
"Just call me teacher when we're alone, but when we're in public, you can still show some respect," Du Bu Si said with a chuckle, his eyes twinkling with warmth.
"Understood, Teacher," Han Yu replied, feeling more at ease.
Du Bu Si then gestured for Han Yu to follow him deeper into the hall. "I want to give you a brief overview of our training philosophy and how we can help you develop your martial spirit."
As they walked, Han Yu took in the surroundings—decorated with banners and weapons, the atmosphere felt charged with energy. Du Bu Si stopped in front of a large mural depicting the history of the Body Sect.
"Our sect values physical strength and the cultivation of one's martial spirit above all. The original martial spirit you possess is rare and holds great potential," he explained.
Han Yu nodded, eager to learn more. "What can I do to maximize my potential, Teacher?"
Du Bu Si smiled, pleased with his disciple's enthusiasm. "First, we'll focus on strengthening your body. Your physical fitness is crucial to harnessing your martial spirit effectively. Then, we'll explore specialized techniques tailored to your abilities."
Han Yu felt a surge of determination. "I'm ready, Teacher. I want to train hard and become strong!"
"Good! We'll start your training immediately. But remember, strength comes not just from training but also from wisdom and strategy," Du Bu Si cautioned, his expression turning serious.
With that, they moved toward the training ground, where Han Yu would begin his journey of transformation.
"Teacher, you are someone who teaches and resolves doubts, a guiding light on my path. With such kindness, Han Yu cannot be heartless; I should show my respect to you," Han Yu said, his tone firm.
He understood the importance of having a teacher to guide him in life. Success isn't just about hard work; sometimes, it's about having the right stepping stones. In his previous life, despite all his effort, he remained just a worker, lacking the guidance that could have led him further.
"You're quite wise for your age!" Du Bu Si chuckled, his gaze softening as he took in Han Yu's youthful face. Having no children of his own, he felt a sense of pride in this thoughtful apprentice.
It was clear to Du Bu Si that Han Yu's maturity and understanding were rare qualities, and he couldn't help but feel a deep affection for the boy he had just taken under his wing.
Although Du Bu Si didn't fuss over formalities, he appreciated an apprentice who showed respect.
"Good apprentice, I understand your intentions. Now, let's move," he said, placing his hands behind his back and leading the way out of the hall. Han Yu nodded and followed closely.
A few days later, they paused in a forest.
"Teacher, where are we headed?" Han Yu asked, his face a bit pale.
After several days of intense travel with Du Bu Si, his initial excitement had faded, replaced by fatigue. Despite Du Bu Si's efforts to shield him from the turbulent air, he felt overwhelmed.
"Our destination is Hanhai City, near the sea!" Du Bu Si replied, observing Han Yu's condition. "And I must say, your body is too weak!, and we will have to change that"