After five years of intense training, Bai Zhi finally decided it was time to teach Yuan the next step: how to truly harness the spirit energy he had been collecting. This wasn't just about slaying ghosts—it was about using that energy to strengthen his body, fortify his mind, and become more than just a mere exorcist.
One evening, after an exhausting training session in the mountains, Bai Zhi stood with Yuan in a quiet, secluded area, the night air crisp and clear.
"Now that you've absorbed enough spirit energy, it's time to learn how to refine it," Bai Zhi said, his usual stern tone softened by a hint of approval. "The energy you've collected is raw, unpolished. To use it effectively, you must channel it throughout your body and mind. This will not only help you defeat ghosts more easily but will also make you stronger, faster, and more resilient."
Yuan nodded, eager to learn, his body aching from the day's practice. "How do I do it?" he asked, his voice full of determination.
Bai Zhi raised an eyebrow, his face lighting up with a rare, teasing smile. "First, you need to stop thinking of it as something separate from you. Spirit energy is part of you now. Treat it like a tool, and it will be as stubborn as any tool you've ever used."
Yuan squinted. "That sounds like something you'd say to someone who's not good at handling tools. But… okay, I'll try."
Bai Zhi chuckled. "You always make things sound more difficult than they are. Alright, focus your spirit energy into your hands first. Let it flow through your body. Imagine the energy as a liquid, flowing like water, from your core to your limbs."
Yuan did as instructed, closing his eyes and visualizing the energy moving through him. At first, it felt awkward, like trying to catch the wind with his bare hands. But gradually, he could feel the energy vibrating in his palms, his arms, and down to his legs. His muscles, worn from years of training, began to feel lighter, more powerful.
"Good," Bai Zhi said, a small nod of approval. "Now, use that energy to strengthen your body. Imagine your bones and muscles becoming unbreakable, your skin as tough as steel. Channel the energy, focus on it, and push it through every part of your body."
Yuan exhaled slowly, his entire body tingling with the flow of energy. He could feel it in his fingertips, in his chest, his heart beating in sync with the pulse of spirit energy. It was as if he were becoming one with the energy, instead of merely using it. The power felt incredible—his body was no longer just a shell, but a vessel brimming with potential.
"You're doing well," Bai Zhi observed, his voice a little softer than usual. "But remember, don't let the energy control you. You control it."
For the next several weeks, Yuan trained diligently, strengthening his body with spirit energy and refining his techniques. He could feel the changes—his senses were sharper, his body faster and more resilient, and his ability to fight ghosts had improved by leaps and bounds.
But just as Yuan began to feel like he was truly mastering the art of exorcism, Bai Zhi threw him a challenge that would test everything he had learned.
Time Skip – Four Years & 11 months Later
The years had passed in a blur. Yuan and Bai Zhi were no longer just master and student—they had become companions, bound by their shared experiences and struggles. But even after ten years, Bai Zhi's teaching remained as rigorous as ever.
One day, they received a call about a deadly ghost haunting the nearby Mount Kijo. The ghost had been terrorizing villagers, killing anyone who ventured too close to the mountain. The authorities were at a loss, and as always, it was up to exorcists like Bai Zhi and Yuan to deal with the problem.
As they ascended the mountain, Yuan felt a familiar sense of unease settle in his chest. This wouldn't be an easy exorcism. Bai Zhi walked in front, his pace calm, but Yuan could tell that even the seasoned exorcist was preparing himself for a difficult battle.
"You know, I never get tired of these mountain hikes," Yuan joked, trying to lighten the mood. "They're so relaxing. All this fresh air and the sound of ghostly wailing in the distance. What's not to love?"
Bai Zhi shot him a sideways glance, his face stoic as always. "Stop complaining, Yuan. You're a trained exorcist now. If you can't handle a little mountain breeze, what kind of exorcist are you?"
Yuan grinned, adjusting the strap of his bag. "A very good one, apparently. If I survive this, you owe me a feast. Deal?"
Bai Zhi smirked, though his eyes were focused ahead. "Fine. But you'll be paying for the feast. I didn't say I'd buy it."
As they reached the peak of the mountain, they found the ghost—a twisted, horrific figure cloaked in shadows, its eyes glowing with malevolent intent. Bai Zhi stepped forward, motioning for Yuan to stand back.
"Stay focused, Yuan," Bai Zhi warned. "This is where all those years of training come into play."
Yuan nodded, stepping forward, his body buzzing with spirit energy. He focused, channeling the energy into his hands and legs, preparing for the battle ahead. He could feel the ghost's presence, like a cold wind brushing against his skin.
"You ready, kid?" Bai Zhi asked, a rare grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Yuan smirked, his eyes blazing with determination. "You bet. Let's get rid of this thing. And then I'll hold you to that feast."