Han Li, at home on the phone with the district head the atmosphere filled with a mix of anticipation and gravity. The District Head's voice rang into Han Li's ears with a thoughtful intensity.
"I have some news for you, Han Li," the District Head began. "I've used my political influence and resources to secure another month for you in the cultivation pod at the District High School."
Han Li's eyes widened in surprise. "Another month? That's incredible! Thank you, sir."
The District Head nodded, a satisfied smile on his face. "I believe in your potential, Han Li. The cultivation pod is a rare opportunity, one that can propel you to new heights."
The District High School was known throughout the region as an institution for the children of the wealthy and influential. It boasted advanced equipment, top-tier instructors, and state-of-the-art facilities, including the coveted cultivation pods.
Ling should have attended this prestigious school, but her father's decision to send her to stay with her grandmother in the village had changed her path. Now, she had the opportunity to access the high school's resources alongside Han Li.
The cultivation pod was a luxury that only the elite could afford. It could convert vast amounts of energy into astral energy, drastically accelerating a user's cultivation. Using it for a month could increase a genius's energy level by four stages and an ordinary person's by one or two. Additionally, it enhanced awareness, allowing users to learn and improve their techniques in a virtual space where time flowed slower than in reality.
As Han Li absorbed the news, a lingering thought crossed his mind. "What about the minister's son, Zhang Wei? He tried to bully Ling using his father's political connections and I know he attends this school and his father has a significant influence in the school."
The District Head's expression darkened slightly. "Zhang Wei's father, Minister Zhang, may have some influence, but I far outrank him. He won't be a problem."
Han Li nodded, feeling reassured. "Thank you for your support, sir. I'll make the most of this opportunity."
Han Li was already a level 7 astral user, a testament to his rapid advancement. With another month in the cultivation pod, he was on the verge of breaking through to the next stage: the body refinement astral user.
The body refinement stage was crucial for an astral warrior. It consisted of nine levels, each focused on cultivating different parts of the body to achieve unparalleled strength. The stages included skin, blood, bones, ligaments, liver, heart, lungs, brain, and finally, the core. It was at this stage that they truly became formidable astral warriors.
Elemental and non-elemental power users had an edge over ordinary astral warriors. While ordinary warriors could only manipulate and utilize the energy they cultivated within their bodies, those with awakened powers had extra abilities that made them significantly more powerful.
Han Li and Ling made their way to the District High School, the grandeur of the campus evident in its sprawling grounds and impressive buildings. They were accompanied by their third group mate, Wang Liang, the young man with the fire element who had been a crucial part of their team during the beast hunt.
As they entered the high school's cultivation center, they were greeted by the headmaster, a stern-looking man with an air of authority. "Welcome, students. The cultivation pods are ready for you."
Han Li exchanged a look with Ling and Wang Liang, excitement and determination mirrored in their eyes. They knew this was a pivotal moment in their journey.
Each of them stepped into their assigned pod, feeling the cool metal against their skin. As the pods hummed to life, Han Li felt a surge of energy enveloping him. He closed his eyes, allowing the energy to flow through him, guiding him into the virtual space where he could train and cultivate.
In the virtual space, time moved at a slower pace, allowing them to maximize their training. Han Li focused on cultivating his body, feeling the energy transform his skin, blood, and bones. He visualized his invisible hands, experimenting with new ways to use them in combat.
Ling and Wang Liang were equally absorbed in their training, pushing their limits and honing their skills. They knew that the upcoming astral competition would test them in ways they had never experienced before.
As the month in the cultivation pod drew to a close, Han Li emerged feeling stronger and more confident. He had broken through to the first level of the body refinement stage, his skin now fortified with astral energy.
The headmaster approached them, his eyes gleaming with approval. "You've all made remarkable progress. Keep this momentum, and you'll be ready for the competition."
Han Li nodded, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Ling and Wang Liang. They had come a long way together, and they knew the road ahead would be challenging. But with their combined strengths and unwavering determination, they were ready to face whatever lay ahead.
As they left the high school, Han Li couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunities they had been given. The support of Ling's father, the advanced resources of the high school, and their unbreakable bond as a team had all contributed to their growth.
With the astral competition looming, Han Li knew that their true journey was just beginning. They had unlocked new potential, but the path to becoming legendary astral warriors was filled with trials and tribulations. Together, they would rise to the challenge and prove their worth.