The next morning, Bai Yan led Lei Wushuang to a serene clearing deep within the forest. The crimson leaves overhead created a canopy that bathed the area in a soft, reddish light.
"Wushuang, mastering the Illusionary Body skill requires not only understanding the technique but also synchronizing it with the Heavenly Thunder Body," Bai Yan explained. "This combination will make your speed and power almost unrivaled."
Lei Wushuang nodded, focusing intently on Bai Yan's words. "I understand, Master. I will give it my all."
Bai Yan began demonstrating the technique once more, moving with a grace and precision that seemed almost supernatural. Lightning crackled and danced around him, creating afterimages that blurred the line between reality and illusion.
"Now, your turn," Bai Yan said, stepping back to give Lei Wushuang space.
Lei Wushuang closed his eyes for a moment, centering himself. He felt the power of the Heavenly Thunder Body coursing through him, amplifying his strength and speed. He opened his eyes, determination shining within them, and began to move.
At first, his movements were tentative, but with Bai Yan's guidance, he quickly began to find his rhythm. Lightning crackled around him as he moved, creating faint afterimages that grew more distinct with each passing moment.
However, as the training progressed, Lei Wushuang's lack of cultivation at the Core Condensing Realm became apparent. His movements were slow, and he struggled to maintain the energy flow. Each attempt left him more exhausted, frustration mounting as he failed to replicate Bai Yan's effortless grace.
Bai Yan observed his disciple's struggle with a thoughtful expression. "Wushuang, your foundation is not yet strong enough to master this technique. You need to cultivate further and break through to the Self-Perfecting Realm."
Lei Wushuang looked down, feeling a pang of disappointment. "But Master, how can I achieve that?"
Bai Yan placed a reassuring hand on Lei Wushuang's shoulder. "Do not worry. I will provide you with the resources you need. Cultivate diligently, and you will reach the next realm."
With that, Bai Yan led Lei Wushuang to a secluded part of the forest, setting up a makeshift training area. He handed Lei Wushuang a collection of high-grade pills and other valuable cultivation resources. "Use these to aid your cultivation. Focus on breaking through to the Self-Perfecting Realm."
For the next several months, Lei Wushuang devoted himself to cultivation. Day and night, he absorbed the pills and channeled the energy within them, feeling his power gradually increase. Bai Yan occasionally checked on his progress, offering guidance and support.
As the weeks turned into months, Lei Wushuang could feel the barrier to the next realm weakening. With each passing day, his determination grew stronger. Finally, one night, as he sat in deep meditation, he felt a surge of energy rush through him. His body trembled as he broke through the barrier, ascending to the Self-Perfecting Realm.
Lei Wushuang opened his eyes, feeling a profound sense of accomplishment. He stood up, his body radiating with newfound power. Bai Yan, sensing the breakthrough, approached with a proud smile. "Congratulations, Wushuang. You have reached the Self-Perfecting Realm."
Lei Wushuang bowed deeply. "Thank you, Master. I couldn't have done it without your guidance and support."
"Now," Bai Yan said, "we can continue your training with the Illusionary Body technique."
With renewed vigor, Lei Wushuang resumed his practice. This time, his enhanced cultivation allowed him to better harness the power of the technique. Bai Yan demonstrated the skill once more, and Lei Wushuang followed suit, his movements becoming increasingly fluid and precise.
Days turned into weeks as they trained, the bond between master and disciple growing stronger with each passing moment. Lei Wushuang's mastery of the Illusionary Body technique improved steadily, his speed and power becoming almost imperceptible to the naked eye.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the crimson forest, Bai Yan and Lei Wushuang stood side by side, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Their journey was just beginning, and with the power of the Heavenly Thunder Body and the Illusionary Body skill, they were prepared to conquer any obstacle in their path.
"Master," Lei Wushuang said quietly, his voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you for everything."
Bai Yan smiled, placing a hand on his disciple's shoulder. "We are just getting started, Wushuang. Now, let's continue our training."