The soft light of dawn filtered through the cracks in the wooden shutters of Jin Mo's room. He stirred from his deep sleep, his body sore but his mind sharper than ever. The events of the previous day played back in his mind—the fight, the victory, and the strange new abilities he had unlocked.
Stretching, he sat up on his bed. The room was modest, furnished with only the bare essentials, yet it was a far cry from the cold loneliness of his previous life.
Nyx: "Good morning, sleepyhead. I thought you'd never wake up."
Jin Mo turned to see Nyx sitting cross-legged on the windowsill, her ethereal form glowing faintly in the morning light.
Jin Mo: "Morning, Nyx. You're unusually cheerful today."
Nyx: "Why wouldn't I be? We've survived another day, gained new skills, and you now have a spooky new hideout with two loyal skeletons. Not a bad day's work, don't you think?"
Jin Mo chuckled softly as he stood up, stretching his stiff limbs.
Jin Mo: "Fair point. But I've got to focus on what's ahead. Sir Cedric's training won't wait, and I'm sure he'll notice if I'm not at my best."
As he washed his face and prepared for the day, Nyx hovered closer, her expression turning serious.
Nyx: "Speaking of focus, have you thought about your next steps? Those skills you've gained are powerful, but you'll need to refine them. And let's not forget—there are bigger threats out there than Geol Mo and Chol Mo."
Jin Mo nodded, his mind already racing.
Jin Mo: "I'll start by mastering the Graveyard skill. It feels like the key to managing my undead forces. But first... breakfast and training."
With that, he headed out of his room and into the main courtyard of the Mo family estate. The sun was now fully up, casting golden rays over the training grounds where several warriors were already practicing. The rhythmic clash of blades filled the air, accompanied by grunts of effort and the occasional barked command from instructors.
As Jin Mo approached, a familiar figure stepped forward.
Sir Cedric: "You're late, Jin Mo. A warrior's discipline begins with punctuality."
Sir Cedric, the Mo family's revered guardian and swordmaster, towered over Jin Mo with a commanding presence. His stern gaze softened slightly as he took in Jin Mo's appearance.
Jin Mo: "Apologies, Sir Cedric. I had a long night."
Sir Cedric: "Excuses won't help you when you're in battle. Now, draw your sword. Let's see if yesterday's battle left you sharper or dulled your edge."
Jin Mo unsheathed his blade, its surface gleaming in the morning sun. Taking his stance, he focused on his breathing, steadying his thoughts. Sir Cedric wasted no time, lunging forward with a quick, testing strike.
The clang of metal echoed as Jin Mo parried, his movements fluid but slightly slower than usual.
Sir Cedric: "Your form is solid, but your focus wavers. What's distracting you?"
Jin Mo hesitated for a moment before answering.
Jin Mo: "I'm adapting to new skills. Balancing my energy between swordsmanship and... other abilities."
Sir Cedric arched an eyebrow but didn't press further.
Sir Cedric: "Then let's see how you balance in a real fight. Defend yourself!"
The sparring session intensified. Cedric's strikes were relentless, each blow testing Jin Mo's defenses. Sweat dripped from his brow as he dodged, blocked, and counterattacked. Slowly, he began to find his rhythm, his movements becoming sharper and more precise.
After an hour, Cedric called a halt.
Sir Cedric: "You've improved, but there's still much work to be done. Remember, a warrior's strength isn't just in his skills but in his ability to adapt. Take some time to meditate and reflect. We'll continue tomorrow."
Jin Mo nodded, breathing heavily but feeling a sense of accomplishment. As he sheathed his sword, Nyx floated closer.
Nyx: "Not bad, Jin Mo. But Cedric's right—you've got a long way to go. Especially if you want to take on what's coming."
Jin Mo: "I know. But every step forward brings me closer to my goals. And I won't stop until I've achieved them."