Chapter 9: The Path of Martial Arts

It was a bright morning, and the warm sunrays streamed into my room, gently waking me from my slumber. Despite the early hour, I felt refreshed and energized, thanks to the intensive training I had undergone over the past two days.

As was my routine, I stayed at my master's house every weekend to immerse myself in training. Today being Sunday, it marked the end of two days of dedicated practice with the Supreme Warrior Scripture, which I had renamed for myself.

These past two days had been a thrilling experience as I delved into the path of a warrior. When I began my training, I found myself engrossed in meditation for the entire first day, pushing my body to its limits in absorbing mana.

Master explained that this sensation of reaching the threshold of mana capacity was a common experience for warriors during meditation. Unlike mages, who compressed mana within their magic cores, warriors compressed it within their own bodies through martial arts. Martial arts were an essential part of a warrior's training, acting as a means to strengthen the body and even serve as combat techniques.

The second chapter of the Supreme Warrior Scripture introduced a martial art called the "36 Warrior Fighting Technique." This technique comprised 36 forms and needed to be practiced in conjunction with the incantation from the scripture itself.

Master instructed me to first master this 36 Warrior Fighting Technique before venturing into other martial arts. While the martial art included in the scripture focused on training the body, warriors could also supplement it with additional forms such as fist techniques, movement techniques, and weapon techniques. This diversity of martial arts became the warrior's way of combat, distinguishing them from mages who relied primarily on magic fueled by mana.

The 36 Warrior Fighting Technique appeared deceptively simple in terms of individual moves, but the challenge lay in the repetitive practice required. According to the scripture, I had to continuously execute the 36 moves as one long incantation. The more repetitions I could accomplish, the greater the training's efficacy.

Initially, I underestimated the difficulty since the moves themselves were not complex. I had been training my body for almost a decade, with Master imparting basic martial arts such as boxing and karate. Our regular sparring sessions had further honed my physical capabilities.

However, my expectations were shattered. When coupled with the Supreme Warrior Incantation, the 36 Warrior Fighting Technique became an immensely challenging endeavor. Every movement felt heavy, as if the gravity had multiplied tenfold. Even after two days of practice, I couldn't complete a single cycle of the technique.

I trained tirelessly throughout the morning until my body could no longer move. It was then that I heard someone approaching—it was none other than my master.

"Kid! Are you trying to skip practice? Why are you lying there?" Master's voice rang out, filled with admonishment.

"Master, can't you see that I've just finished? Look at me, I'm so exhausted that I can't even move my body," I responded lazily, defying his words.

"Get up! Next, we will train in martial arts. Go practice your karate kumite," Master commanded firmly.

Inwardly grumbling, I reluctantly stood up and proceeded with the karate training.

Norton couldn't contain his happiness during these days. Witnessing the dedication of his sole disciple filled him with immense joy. Although he couldn't guide his disciple through the Supreme Warrior Scripture directly, he had found a way to assist him by providing the perfect platform for his training.

"I may not be able to teach you the scripture, but I will ensure you have every opportunity to thrive," Norton vowed silently in his heart.

I diligently trained in karate until evening. Master's words rang true—the practice of martial arts after training with the scripture arts proved to be effective. I could feel my movements becoming smoother, and the integration of martial arts into my warrior's path further strengthened my body.

"Master, I'm done," I informed him, relieved to have completed today's practice.

"Good," was his simple response. "Until you reach the third chapter, this will be your daily routine. Remember, a warrior's strength lies in the mastery of their body. We focus on maximizing our physical capabilities."

His words resonated deeply within me. As I progressed on the path of a warrior, I realized the profound impact training in martial arts had on my strength and agility.

While mages honed their power through spells, warriors could attain similar heights by refining their skills in martial arts.

Master must have been aware of this, which explained his approach to training me all these years.

"Starting from tomorrow, our martial arts training and sparring sessions will intensify. Be prepared," Master declared, observing my agreement with a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes. With that, I eagerly looked forward to a future where I would grow even stronger.