Strength In Stillness

Time became an afterthought.

Wang Shi trained from dawn until the stars reappeared, his focus unwavering. The first challenge had been sensing spiritual energy. The second, drawing it in. Now, he worked on refining the flow, guiding it within himself until it no longer felt foreign.

He learned to distinguish the subtle differences in energy—how it fluctuated with the wind, how it thickened near the trees and water. Bai Lu had told him that the world itself was alive, and now he was beginning to understand.

Some days were smooth, the energy flowing effortlessly. Other days, his control wavered, the energy resisting him like an untamed current.

But Bai Lu never corrected him when he struggled. She only watched, silent, as he figured it out on his own.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Wang Shi sat at the lake's edge, his breathing steady, spiritual energy circulating naturally within him.

Bai Lu finally spoke.

"You are ready for the next step."

He turned to her, expectant.

She stood, drawing her sword in one smooth motion. The silver blade gleamed under the moonlight.

"Cultivation is not just about sensing energy. It is about using it."

Wang Shi rose to his feet, pulse quickening.

Bai Lu's gaze was calm yet firm.

"Watch closely."

She raised her sword, and with a single stroke, the air before her trembled—an unseen force rippling outward.

Wang Shi barely breathed.

His training had reached a turning point.

And he was ready.

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