Real Battle

After an intense day of training, Ran returned home energized but thoughtful. He needed time alone to process all of Uncle Meng's wisdom regarding the cultivation realms.

Settling down cross-legged on his bed, Ran began meditating as the sun set. He focused on circulating qi while pondering the day's lessons.

  Thanks to continuous modifications, his jade bracelet now provided boosts to Comprehension, Vitality, Qi Control, Agility, Qi Reading ability and Strength. The combined effects allowed swift progress in both mental and physical aspects of cultivation.

As night fell, Ran decided to consult his System. "System, can you explain again how I may increase my Soulforce?" he whispered.

"Host can gain Attribute Points to boost Soulforce by defeating enemies in combat," answered the System's mechanical voice. "Attribute Points can also enhance the Host's Physique, Qi Levels, Comprehension, and other attributes."

Ran nodded slowly. So in this world, battle was the key to growth. His cultivation base could only increase by testing his skills against others and accumulating points. This again aligned with leveling up by slaying enemies in games.

"I should ask Uncle Meng to allow me to start combat training soon," Ran murmured. "My Inner Foundation building progresses swiftly thanks to my bracelet. Once I can test my skills against beast, I will gain Attribute Points to quickly boost my Soulforce and abilities."

Having clarified his path forward, Ran spent the rest of the night peacefully meditating. His Inner Foundation grew more robust by the hour under the focused qi circulation.

The next morning, Ran rose early, ready to make his request to Uncle Meng. After breakfast, he briskly walked to the training grounds, practicing his speech mentally along the way.

Uncle Meng was already there sipping tea. He raised a furry eyebrow as Ran approached eagerly.

"Master, my skills have grown thanks to your guidance," began Ran respectfully. "I humbly ask your permission to start combat training against real opponents, to test my abilities."

Uncle Meng regarded him thoughtfully. "Real combat is dangerous. You must prove your foundation is solid first."

He set his tea down. "Land one blow on me before sunset today, and I will allow you to hunt in the forest to build combat experience."

Ran's eyes widened but he nodded firmly, accepting the challenge. Uncle Meng beckoned him forward. "First lesson of combat: initiator rarely has advantage."

Suddenly he vanished. Ran sensed movement behind him and whirled around. Uncle Meng had reappeared there faster than his eyes could follow!

Ran raised his guard, realizing this fight would truly test his skills. Uncle Meng's hands stayed clasped behind his back, smiling benignly.

"Remember, you only need one blow. Come now, don't be shy," he said calmly.

Ran circled warily, looking for an opening. He tried probing attacks, but Uncle Meng evaded them with seemingly no effort. His footwork was exquisite, stepping lightly as a feather.

After dozens of failed attacks, Ran paused to catch his breath. Uncle Meng had yet to make a single move of his own. Yet Ran couldn't even touch the edge of his robe!

"His footwork and evasion show complete mastery of agility and qi control," Ran analyzed. "He must have trained for decades to reach such skill."

An idea sparked. Ran intentionally overcommitted on his next strike. As he stumbled past, Uncle Meng's robe sleeve brushed his fingertips. In that instant, Ran activated his Modified Bracelet's Qi Reading ability.

The insights flashed through Ran's mind. Uncle Meng had indeed attained the 2nd stage of Foundation Building. His qi control and air affinity were incredible. But he was only utilizing basic movement techniques, not any combat abilities. The perfect chance!

As Uncle Meng stepped lightly away again, Ran pivoted low and swept his leg in a reverse hook. Caught by surprise, Uncle Meng lost his balance and tumbled forward.

Capitalizing instantly, Ran struck once lightly on Uncle Meng's shoulder before catching him.

"You did it!" Uncle Meng laughed after standing back up. Ran smiled widely, bowing respectfully.

"Your fundamentals and adaptation skills are masterful," praised Uncle Meng. "You've earned the privilege of honing them further through combat."

Elated at passing the test, Ran thanked Uncle Meng fervently before rushing off to prepare for his first hunt. Powerful beasts lurked in the forest, but with each battle, he would come one step closer to unlocking his true power in this world.