Kai took his time exploring the orphanage, observing the children around him with wonder. This place, despite its simplicity, was filled with laughter, warmth, and a sense of family he hadn't fully experienced before. The walls echoed with joy, and every room seemed to glow with the liveliness of the children who called it home. Seeing the other kids so carefree made him feel that he had indeed found his place.
There was Mira, a girl a year older than him, always darting around with boundless energy and a contagious laugh. She had a knack for brightening anyone's mood and often tried to teach the games she had made up. "You all are terrible at this!" she would tease, laughing as others fumbled through the rules.
Then there was Aran, Kai's age but a bit taller. Aran had a gentle, encouraging voice.
And finally, Lei La, a quiet girl who loved to listen to stories, would often sit beside Kai during story time. She had a calming and cute presence, and would chat about being in adventures whenever the Caretakers would tell stories.
There were also Taro, Nina who were a year older than Kai as well as a few other kids named Ji Rou, Guo Ku but a year or two younger than Kai.
Kai started to train but to the limit of as much as he could because his body wasn't yet ready for the rigorous techniques he longed to do. So, he balancing his time, dedicating himself to gentle exercises and spending the rest with his newfound family. Though he sometimes felt the strain of his limits, the kindness and joy around him eased his frustration. As well he would also help to motivate others to train some yoga and eat well.
From the very start, Kai seized every opportunity to enhance his Spirit Power and improve his physical abilities. After quickly adapting to life in the orphanage, helping with minor chores that not only strengthened his small frame but also allowed him to steadily build his Spirit Energy through the Essence Flow Technique. The initial months were simple, but each day he pushed himself harder, always striving to exceed his limits. Below is a monthly breakdown of his progress:
Months 1-3: Foundation and Adaptation
Having gained some familiarity with his new environment, Kai dove into training. At nearly four years old, his physical capabilities were limited, so he focused on minor chores around the orphanage, such as carrying supplies and helping with sweeping floors. Every opportunity was used to strengthen his body while circulating the Essence Flow Technique. This practice enabled him to absorb Spirit Energy from his surroundings even during the most mundane activities. It wasn't because Kai was gifted but because of the vigilance, will, instinct and determination of his soul that the Almighty hadn't removed during memory erasing time of Kai which means Kai still retained his strong will and mental capacity from his past life allowing him to work hard without giving up in early age.
Starting with almost no Spirit Energy reserves, Kai accumulated 40 Spirit Power by the end of the third month. His initial aptitude ratings began at 1☆ across all stats, mirroring the modest capacity of his young body. He engaged in small exercises like stretching, running, and lifting slightly heavier objects to enhance his stamina and resilience. Each day of training left him feeling a bit stronger, a bit tougher.
Months 4-6: Early Gains and Determination
As Kai entered his fourth month, the signs of improvement in his body became evident. He could easily manage minor chores and even assist with more strenuous tasks around the orphanage. By the end of the sixth month, his Spirit Power had reached 70, and he felt the energies within him more distinctly.
With his body strengthened, he saw his first significant growth in physical stats: reaching 2☆ in Strength, Speed, Stamina, and Defence. His hard work was starting to bear fruit, and the system acknowledged his gains, filling him with a sense of accomplishment. Although the effort required to progress was increasing, so was his determination. Each star gained represented another level of aptitude and capability, pushing him closer to his ultimate goal.
Months 7-9: Training Intensifies
By the seventh month, Kai had established a routine that involved intense daily training and meditation sessions. He woke up before dawn to practice basic physical exercises and meditate, focusing on circulating the Essence Flow Technique to absorb Spirit Energy. He elevated his chores to new heights, carrying heavier supplies and taking every opportunity to run laps around the orphanage courtyard to enhance his speed and stamina.
By the end of the ninth month, his Spirit Power reached the milestone of 100—a feat that filled him with pride.
The system congratulated him and granted him a boost of 1☆ during his breakthrough from the Spirit Origin Realm to the Spirit Connection Realm (i.e., from 99 points to 100 points of Spirit Power), allowing for higher progress in his development. His physical stats had improved to 3☆ across the board, enabling him to handle more rigorous training with greater ease. The increase in Spirit Power and physical aptitude fueled his confidence, igniting a surge of determination to keep pushing forward.
Months 10-12: Enrolling in the Junior Soul Master Academy
At his fifth birthday approached, was allowed to enroll in the Jiangyin Junior Pre School, where he was sent to deepen his understanding of the world. On Kai's first day at Junior Pre-School, he entered with Aran and Lei La by his side, all three of them new and curious. The room was alive with energy, yet Kai's eyes fell upon a boy sitting alone by the window. This boy, Tang Wulin, looked hopeful as he noticed the trio and quickly made his way over, introducing himself with a friendly smile and a shy wave.
"Hi, I'm Tang Wulin," he greeted, his voice filled with a quiet excitement. "Are you new too?"
Kai, encouraged by Aran and Lei La's nods, stepped forward. "Yes! I'm Kai, and these are my friends, Aran and Lei La."
With a warm handshake and a sense of relief, Wulin welcomed them. He seemed delighted, sharing that he had felt alone before they arrived and was grateful for their company. As they chatted, he eagerly described the classroom, their teacher, and the activities they would soon enjoy together.
Not only were Kai and the other two were admitted to the academy, among the older children, three had recently awakened their Martial Souls, each discovery met with excitement in the orphanage. Jiro had awakened a River Serpent Martial Soul, Beast-Type with an innate soul power of Level 5. Kai and others admired the unique silver scales that would briefly appear on his arm when he called forth its essence.
Lina, on the other hand, had gained a Fire Spirit Blossom Martial Soul, an Elemental-Type with a vibrant glow. Her innate soul power had measured at Level 5, but the warmth radiating from her soul always filled the room, making others feel cozy and calm.
Taro had been delighted to awaken a Giant's Staff Martial Soul, marking him as a Weapon-Type wielder with an innate soul power of Level 6. The caretakers watched with pride as he practiced summoning the faint image of a gleaming staff, excitedly sharing his progress with Kai and the others.
Mira had recently awakened her Crystal Guardian Martial Soul, a dazzling Beast-Type soul with innate soul power at Level 7, higher than anyone else in their group. The caretakers and other children were in awe of the delicate crystal-like feathers that shimmered faintly around her as she practiced, showing the powerful potential of her unique Martial Soul.
Kai, watching his friends with their newly awakened and surprisingly potent Martial Souls, couldn't help but feel a mixture of pride and astonishment. Each of them had such high soul power, far beyond what can be expected from commoner's group. Just then, a small message box from the Gaia System appeared before him:
[The high soul power levels in those around you, Kai, result from the Essence Flow technique you've been practicing. By circulating this technique, as you absorbed the Spiritual Energy from surrounding, the energy bit by bit also used to seep into them, prompting an early mutation and strengthening of latent bloodlines, which boosted their soul power significantly.]
Kai was taken aback by this revelation, realizing that his own training had unknowingly contributed to the strength and success of his friends.
As so excited, Kai's training became even more structured, incorporating lessons from the academy. He continued to practice the Essence Flow Technique diligently, achieving 170 Spirit Power by the end of the year. His physical stats peaked at 3☆ in Strength, Speed, Stamina, and Defense, giving him an advantage over his peers. With each new star gained, the level of effort and focus required for further progress increased, yet he welcomed the challenge.
Kai through help of Gaia System was able to simplify the Essence Floe Technique which he then secretly distributed to the four who had awakened their Martial Soul. While so, them being from public orphanage everyone was able to enter the Red Mountain Soul Master's Academy. They all also followed Kai's tips to train and cultivate.
Months 13-18: The Path to Perfection
Now five years old, Kai was wholly dedicated to perfecting his skills. Each day, he rose early, completed his chores, and attended the academy, where he continued his training and studies. The academy's resources and environment enabled him to refine his techniques, pushing his Spirit Power to 235 by the end of the eighteenth month.
The increase to 4☆ in all his physical stats was hard-earned and required him to consistently test his limits. His strength training involved lifting weighted sacks, while distance running and endurance exercises improved his stamina. He focused on each muscle and breath, internalizing every movement while channeling Spirit Energy through his body with increasing precision. His connection to the system became his most significant support, guiding him toward mastery.
Months 19-24: Reaching New Heights
In the final months leading up to his sixth birthday, Kai concentrated on refining his abilities. His Spirit Power continued to grow, reaching 320 by the twenty-first month and peaking at 490 by the end of his second year. His physical stats reached an impressive 5☆ each, with a completion rate of 90%, reflecting his dedication and the rigorous training regimen he maintained. Each increase in star level demanded more effort and commitment, yet Kai welcomed these challenges as steps toward his ultimate goal.
His decision to enhance all his aptitudes equally was uncommon, as most Soul Masters in the Douluo Continent or even in Divine Realm were focused is single aspect of such stats i.e. Strength based, Agility based, defence based etc... However, Kai was determined to achieve perfection across the board, believing that a balanced approach would render him more adaptable and resilient.
The academy instructors as well were impressed by Kai's relentless drive and natural talent, though they didn't fully grasp the thought of how hardworking this little kid was Kai while he also showed aspects of hard work, gentlemanly etiquette and respectful behavior as someone from noble background and not really a kid. Though it wasn't much of their concern but of pride as Kai worked the hardest compared to anyone in the academy and was someone who could be ideal for every kid to join the academy as Kai always was ready to help others in academy.
Just a few days before he was about to turn six years old and become eligible for the awakening of his Martial Soul, Kai stood in the back courtyard of the orphanage where he was jumping and shouting, in very suppressed voice as to not disturb others, as he had achieved a Spirit Power level of 499—a feat impossible for not only a child of his age, but even for many Soul Masters even at level of Soul Elder.
Suddenly, the familiar blue screen appeared before him, as a message from Gaia System greeted him:
[Congratulations, Kai. Your hard work has unlocked a Bonus Hidden Reward: A Random Gift Box that allows you to do a random activity.]
[Here is the Second Reward: Now the boost in the Aptitude Stats]
Forgetting about the Gift Box, Kai's heart raced as he opened the updated Status Window, where each of his aptitudes glowed brightly, now marked at 7☆ (0%) for Strength, Speed, Stamina, and Defense. His Spirit Power, nearly at its peak of 499 which was a testament to the dedication he had poured into his training throughout these two formative years.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
| Name: Kai
| Age: 5 Years Old
| Class: None
| Ability: Lord of Dark Dimension [Sealed]
| Spiritual Power: 499 (Spirit Connection Realm)
| Master Soul: Not Awakened
| Soul Power: 0
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
| Aptitudes: [Will Disappear After Martial Soul | Awakening]
| Strength: 7☆ (0%)
| Speed: 7☆ (0%)
| Stamina: 7☆ (0%)
| Defense: 7☆ (0%)
___________________________________________________________________________________________
As Kai looked at the screen, he was a bit dissatisfied having not been able to make all aptitude reach 10☆ each, he was happy enough to have a balanced aptitude at 7☆ each.
And as he went to help the elders from the orphanage in chores Kai watched at the empty hall and rooms. Memories of his Past 2 years started returning to him...
In the heart of a sunlit orphanage, laughter echoed through the halls as Kai played with the other children, their joy palpable in the warm air. The orphanage, a quaint building with faded pastel walls and a sprawling garden, had been a haven filled with love. Three dedicated staff members—Mrs. Daya, a kind-hearted matron with a gentle smile; Mr. Niko, a jovial handyman with a knack for storytelling; and Miss Lila, a spirited teacher brimming with energy—cared for the children like their own. They often gathered for Storytime in the garden, where vibrant flowers danced in the breeze, creating a world of wonder.
The no longer had the thought of being alone or sought for a family as he felt intertwined with a sense of belonging, a bittersweet reminder that he made him feel that this very orphanage had become the home, he had been searching for the moment he entered this world.
Kai felt an unexplainable happiness among his friends, as they engaged in games, shared secrets, and dreamed up grand adventures. He thrived on the warmth of their camaraderie, his laughter blending seamlessly with theirs. Mrs. Daya often prepared delicious meals, while Mr. Niko regaled them with tales of brave knights and mythical creatures, capturing their imaginations. Miss Lila taught them to paint, and Kai's colorful drawings adorned the walls, each stroke a reflection of his vibrant spirit.
Today, a whole two years later, Kai stood together with his now new family as well as with Tang Wulin and Wulin's family celebrating Kai's birthday as well as Tang Wulin's… Surprisingly both the kids had birthday at the same day.
It was a rare, joyful coincidence that Kai and Tang Wulin shared the same birthday, and this day, the orphanage had been transformed into a bright, festive space in honor of Kai's special day. When Tang Wulin's family brought him over to celebrate, they were greeted warmly by the orphanage caretakers, who welcomed them with smiles and kind words, delighted to share this moment.
The caretakers exchanged friendly greetings with Wulin's family, expressing gratitude that their son had brought such companionship to Kai. Tang Wulin's family, equally touched, remarked how wonderful it was that their son had found friends who felt like family.
Meanwhile, the boys, along with Aran and Lei La, marveled at the colorful decorations and tables filled with treats. Tang Wulin, eyes bright with excitement, looked at Kai and said, "It's incredible to be here! We're both the birthday stars today."
Kai grinned, handing him a party hat. "That means double the cake and double the fun!" he said, and the group erupted into laughter.
They raced around the room, playing games prepared by the older children, who watched with smiles. Tang Wulin and Kai took turns breaking the piñata, cheering each other on as candy spilled across the floor. Kai's face was alight with happiness, feeling the joy of a true family around him, even if only for a day
The celebration continued with laughter and cheer. After the games, a delicious dinner was served, filled with the favorite dishes of both Kai and Tang Wulin. The boys sat together, sharing stories and enjoying the meal, their voices mingling with the warm ambiance of the orphanage.
Once dinner concluded, the children gathered around as gifts were presented. Tang Wulin and Kai exchanged presents, their faces lighting up with joy as they unwrapped colorful packages. Aran and Lei La joined in, each revealing thoughtful gifts that brought smiles and delight to the group. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as they shared their treasures, building memories that would last a lifetime.
As the evening wore on, laughter echoed through the halls as the kids continued to play, losing track of time in their blissful camaraderie. The caretakers watched fondly as the joy in the room seemed to glow brighter. Tang Wulin's family, appreciating the sense of belonging, decided to spend the night at the orphanage, creating a cozy atmosphere filled with warmth and connection.
Eventually, the excitement settled, and one by one, the children began to tire. As bedtime approached, the group settled down in their cozy corners, whispers of the day's adventures still lingering in the air.
To Be Continued...