The System gave a cold reply, " The Host's Cultivation is insufficient"
Danial thought to himeself "What do you mean my Cultivation is insufficient?" The system didn't reply as if it was nonexistent.
Danial then began to think about the technique as he started reading the book he held. The more he read the Techniques name, the more he felt familiar with the name " The Sword Drawing Technique"
Danial stared at the System's response, baffled and slightly frustrated. "The Host's Cultivation is insufficient." Those words echoed in his mind, gnawing at his curiosity. What did it mean by "insufficient"? He was already at the Peak Third Stage Mortal cultivation level, and he possessed a variety of skills and abilities. There had to be more to this "Sword Drawing Technique" than met the eye.
As he delved into the book he held, the Technique's name, "The Sword Drawing Technique," seemed to resonate with something deep within him. It was as if he had heard of it before, perhaps from his Master Yamato during his time in the Plane Of The Three Musketeers. The memory was faint but unmistakable.
His determination renewed, Danial decided to access the System once again. With a focused thought, he brought up his status:
Name: Danial Crowford
Cultivation: Peak Third Stage Mortal Main Cultivation Path: Normal Martial Arts Cultivator
Body Cultivation: True Iron Vajra (Second Level Proficiency)
Bloodline: None
Abilities: The Void Devouring Arts (Basic Proficiency), Dragon Abomination First Stage (Dragon Roar), Light Flowing Technique (Basic Proficiency), Earth Spirit Palm (Basic Proficiency), Energy Manipulation Arts (Basic Proficiency)
Storage: None
Pets: None.
Unidentified and Not Learned Skills: Sword Drawing Technique, Five Elements Gathering Formation, The Five Mountain Peak Cultivation, (????), (????), ????).
Main Quest: "Become the Master of the Bright Light Academy" Side Quest: None
The incomplete list of skills weighed heavily on his mind. The "Sword Drawing Technique" had the potential to be a game-changer, but it seemed out of his reach due to his current cultivation level.
Danial couldn't help but wonder why such a high-level technique was tucked away in this library, seemingly forgotten or ignored by others. It was strange that no one in the academy seemed to be practising it. Perhaps it was too advanced for most cultivators, or maybe it held secrets that made it undesirable.
As he flipped through the pages of the ancient tome, he realised that the Technique in the book was missing crucial details. Not only was it missing crucial details, but the entire technique was also missing. The book only recorded the history, the name of the techniuqe and the basic steps to perform it.
Danial was shaken.
Danial couldn't believe his eyes. It was as though someone had deliberately erased the most vital parts of the technique from the book, leaving behind a tantalising but incomplete puzzle. Frustration welled up within him as he pondered the possible reasons for this.
Just as he was lost in thought, Trainer Eamon entered the library. The elderly trainer's sharp eyes quickly fell upon Danial, who was holding the incomplete book. Eamon approached with a knowing look on his face.
"Danial, is that the Sword Drawing Technique you're looking to practice?" Eamon asked, his tone filled with curiosity.
Danial hesitated for a moment, torn between revealing his true intentions and keeping the knowledge to himself. However, he decided to play it safe for now. "No, Trainer Eamon," he replied, carefully concealing his disappointment. "I was merely going through its contents out of curiosity. I haven't made up my mind about which technique to pursue yet."
Eamon's expression shifted slightly, and a hint of disappointment flickered across his face. "I see," he responded, his voice tinged with regret. "You know, this library holds some of our academy's most profound techniques. It's a privilege to have access to it, but you must choose a path to cultivate. You can't remain indecisive forever."
Danial nodded in understanding, though his heart ached at the thought of having to leave the library without gaining any insight into the Sword Drawing Technique. He knew that Trainer Eamon was right; he couldn't linger indefinitely.
Eamon's expression softened, and he added, "Danial, I'll give you one chance to choose a technique from this library. Once you make your decision, you must commit to it. After that, you won't be able to access the library again until you've reached the appropriate cultivation level. It's a crucial step in your journey as a cultivator."
Danial appreciated Eamon's generosity and knew he couldn't squander this opportunity. With a determined nod, he said, "Thank you, Trainer Eamon. I'll make my decision soon and choose a path to follow."
Danial stood at the entrance of the library, his mind in a daze. The vast array of ancient scrolls, books, and techniques stretched before him, each holding the promise of power and enlightenment. It was a daunting choice he had to make, one that would shape the trajectory of his martial arts journey. He knew he couldn't remain indecisive, but the weight of the decision pressed heavily on his shoulders.
One particular technique nagged at the back of his mind—the Harmony of the Nine Elements. It was a skill he had secretly learned using the System. However, it was a unique and complex skill that had eluded even some of the senior cultivators in the academy. Revealing his proficiency in it could raise suspicions and potentially lead to trouble.
Danial knew he needed guidance, and he considered turning to the System for help. As he concentrated on his thoughts, he mentally reached out to the System, seeking its counsel.
Danial asks the System, "System, I need your assistance. I'm facing a critical decision here. Can you recommend a skill for me to master?"
The System remained silent for a moment, as if processing his request. Then, in a voice that echoed in Danial's mind, it replied.
System: "Skill recommended: Iron Fists."
Danial furrowed his brow in thought. Iron Fists? Is it a technique that will make my fists strong and solid like Iron? Danial put his thoughts aside and went deeper in the Library and found the book that recorded the Iron Fist Technique.
Retrieving the ancient tome, he settled into a secluded corner, eager to uncover the mysteries of this new skill.
As he delved into the book's pages, Danial was pleasantly surprised to find that the Iron Fists technique was not as obscure as he initially thought. It was a martial art that emphasized raw power, endurance, and striking precision. The book detailed its history, the philosophy behind it, and the foundational movements that formed its core.
Danial's focus was unwavering as he delved into the pages of the Iron Fists technique. The more he read, the more fascinated he became with this martial art. It emphasized not only physical strength but also the precise control of power. It promised fists as hard as iron, capable of delivering devastating blows. The philosophy behind the technique resonated with him, and he felt a connection to its principles.
Within an hour of intense study, the intricate details of Iron Fists began to click in Danial's mind. He visualized the stances, the movements, and the flow of energy. The System, which had been silent for some time, suddenly popped up with a message.
System: "Learn the Iron Fists technique?"
Danial didn't hesitate. He had already fully comprehended the technique and was eager to make it his own. He responded with a resounding "Yes."
As he confirmed his decision, a surge of knowledge and power flowed into him. It was as though the essence of the Iron Fists technique had become a part of him. He could feel the strength and precision that the technique promised coursing through his veins.
With newfound confidence, Danial closed the book and made his way to Trainer Eamon, who was overseeing a group of novice cultivators in the academy's skill hall. Eamon looked up as Danial approached, a curious glint in his eyes.
"Trainer Eamon," Danial began respectfully, "I have made my decision. I've chosen to master the Iron Fists technique."
Eamon regarded him for a moment, then nodded in approval. "A wise choice, Danial. Iron Fists is a formidable martial art that can be a great asset on your journey. But remember, mastering it will require dedication and perseverance."
Danial nodded in agreement. "I understand, Trainer Eamon. I'm ready to begin my training."
Eamon's lips curled into a faint smile. "Very well, Danial. You have my permission to practice the Iron Fists technique in the skill hall. Train diligently, and I have no doubt that you'll make great progress."
Danial entered the skill hall with a sense of purpose, his mind buzzing with the newfound knowledge of the Iron Fists technique. The vast training area was filled with the rhythmic sounds of cultivators practicing their martial arts, a symphony of determination and effort. He found a relatively quiet corner where he could begin his training in earnest.
As he began to execute the initial movements of the Iron Fists technique, he could feel the energy flowing through his body. Each punch and strike resonated with the philosophy of the art, and he relished in the sense of power that it brought.
However, his concentration was suddenly interrupted by the approach of a group of cultivators. Their footsteps echoed in the hall, and Danial turned to see them approaching. At their head was a tall and imposing figure, a man with a stern expression who seemed to exude authority.
The group halted in front of Danial, and the man at the forefront, who introduced himself as Coby Red, spoke with a mix of accusation and disdain in his voice. "You there, are you Danial Crowford? The one who fought Leonard on the Second Floor?"
Danial, not one to hide from the truth, met Coby's gaze and replied, "Yes, I am Danial Crowford, and I did fight Leonard."
Coby's eyes narrowed, and he wasted no time launching into his accusations. "I've heard rumours, Crowford. Rumours that you used illegal means to defeat Leonard, the Master's personal disciple. You've brought disgrace upon the academy by your actions."
Danial's brow furrowed in both frustration and disbelief. "Illegal means? What evidence do you have to support such claims?" he retorted, his voice tinged with indignation.
Coby Red crossed his arms, his expression unyielding. "Word spreads fast in the academy, Crowford. Witnesses say that your strength exceeded what should be possible at your cultivation level. You must have used forbidden techniques or some sort of external aid to achieve that level of power."
Danial shook his head, growing increasingly frustrated by the baseless accusations. "I can assure you, Coby, that I fought Leonard fairly and without any forbidden techniques or external aid. I've been diligently practising and honing my skills."
Coby scoffed dismissively. "Diligence can only get you so far. I find it hard to believe that you could defeat Leonard, of all people, without some sort of advantage. The Master will hear about this, and you'll face the consequences of your actions."
Danial was taken aback by Coby's unwavering stance and the public shaming that was taking place in the skill hall. He knew that his reputation was at stake, and he couldn't let these accusations go unanswered.
"Listen, Coby," Danial began, his tone calmer but no less resolute, "I'm willing to prove my innocence. If there's a way to verify that I used no illegal means, I'm open to it. But accusations without evidence only sow discord among fellow cultivators."
Coby Red seemed momentarily taken aback by Danial's response. It was clear that he expected Danial to react defensively, not with a willingness to resolve the issue.
As Coby Red continued to berate Danial in front of the skill hall, the tension in the air grew thicker with each passing moment. Danial clenched his fists, his patience wearing thin as he struggled to maintain his composure in the face of baseless accusations.
Coby, fueled by his own certainty, seemed unwavering. "I don't need evidence, Crowford. Your actions speak for themselves. You defeated Leonard, and that alone is suspicious enough."
Danial took a deep breath, trying to keep his temper in check. He knew that losing his composure in front of the other cultivators would only make matters worse.
But just as he was about to make a move to defend his honour, a calming presence suddenly appeared between him and Coby. It was Trainer Eamon, who had seemingly materialized out of nowhere. The elderly trainer's presence was commanding, and his gaze bore into both Danial and Coby with a mix of authority and curiosity.
Eamon's voice was steady as he addressed Coby, "What is going on here?"
Coby hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by Trainer Eamon's unexpected appearance and the aura of authority that surrounded him. He stammered, "T-Trainer Eamon, this is Danial Crowford. He fought Leonard on the Second Floor, and there are rumours that he used illegal means to defeat him."
Danial was stunned. He hadn't sensed Trainer Eamon's approach at all, which meant that Eamon's cultivation level was far beyond his own. Curiosity piqued, Danial mentally asked the System to determine Trainer Eamon's cultivation level.
System: "Trainer Eamon's cultivation level: Master Level."
The System's response confirmed Danial's suspicions. Trainer Eamon was indeed a Master Level cultivator, a realm of power that was far beyond his current Peak Third Stage Mortal cultivation.
Trainer Eamon turned his gaze to Danial, his expression thoughtful. "Is there any truth to these accusations, Danial? Did you use illegal means in your duel with Leonard?"
Danial's voice was firm as he replied, "No, Trainer Eamon. I fought Leonard fairly and without any forbidden techniques or external aid. These accusations are baseless."
Eamon's eyes shifted back to Coby, and he spoke with a calm authority. "Coby, I've known Danial for a while now, and I've observed his progress. He's a diligent and disciplined cultivator. Accusations without evidence are harmful to the unity of our academy. If you have doubts about Danial's abilities, there is a way to resolve this."
Danial was stunned; he didn't expect Trainer Eamon to actually take his side and defend him in front of everyone. He met Trainer Eamon for the first time, and yet he takes my side, which slightly confused Danial
Coby hesitated, clearly uncomfortable with the turn of events. He glanced at Eamon and then at Danial. Finally, he spoke, his voice wavering slightly, "What do you suggest, Trainer Eamon?"
Eamon's response was straightforward. "A duel. If you believe that Danial used illegal means to defeat Leonard, then you should challenge him to a duel. If he accepts, the outcome will determine whether your accusations hold any merit."
Coby's face reddened with a mixture of embarrassment and uncertainty. The prospect of a public duel in front of the other cultivators was clearly not what he had expected. He hesitated for a moment, his pride and doubts warring within him. Although he knew his strenght he didn't expect this type of outcome.
Eamon's gaze remained unwavering, and he pressed, "Well, Coby, what will it be? Are you willing to challenge Danial to a duel to settle this matter once and for all?"
After a few more moments of wavering, Coby finally let out a sigh of resignation. "Fine, Trainer Eamon. I accept the duel."
Danial couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that the matter would be resolved through a fair and public duel. He had confidence in his abilities and knew that he could prove his innocence in combat.
Trainer Eamon's approval of the duel was met with a sense of anticipation from the gathered cultivators in the skill hall. It wasn't every day that they witnessed a public duel, especially one involving such serious accusations. Eamon raised his hand and with a simple wave, he effortlessly pushed aside all the cultivators in the hall, creating a clear and spacious arena in the center. The onlookers watched in awe as the sheer force of his cultivation level was demonstrated.
Danial was left astounded by this display of power. It was now clear that Trainer Eamon was not an ordinary Master Level cultivator; he was a true powerhouse. Danial's respect for the elderly trainer grew even stronger, and he couldn't help but wonder what other mysteries and skills Eamon possessed.
As Danial and Coby stood facing each other in the cleared arena, the tension in the air was palpable. Coby's earlier confidence had waned, and he was now slightly nervous. He had accused Danial without concrete evidence, and now he would have to face the consequences of his actions.
Danial, on the other hand, stood his ground with unwavering determination. He had been falsely accused, and he was determined to prove his innocence through combat. He knew that he had the advantage of the newly learned Iron Fists technique, and he intended to use it to its full potential.
The duel began with a sudden burst of energy as Coby launched a series of swift and aggressive attacks. His movements were precise and well-practiced, showcasing his skills as a cultivator. However, Danial's agility and reflexes allowed him to effortlessly dodge each strike. He moved with grace and precision, avoiding Coby's attacks with ease.
As the duel continued, it became evident that Coby's initial confidence was eroding. His frustration grew as his attacks repeatedly missed their mark, and he began to doubt his accusations. He couldn't deny that Danial's agility and martial prowess were impressive.
Sensing an opportunity, Danial decided to bring the duel to a swift conclusion. With a sudden burst of speed, he closed the distance between himself and Coby in an instant. His hands began to glow with a faint bronze hue as he channeled the power of the Iron Fists technique.
Coby had only a split second to react as Danial's fists struck like lightning, aiming directly for his abdomen. The impact was powerful and precise, and Coby was sent hurtling backward, crashing into the stone wall with a resounding thud.
The onlookers in the skill hall gasped in astonishment at the sheer force of the blow. Coby, with blood trickling from his mouth, slowly slid down the wall, clearly defeated. Danial had demonstrated the potency of the Iron Fists technique, and it had proven to be a formidable skill.
Trainer Eamon, who had been observing the duel with a keen eye, was also taken aback by Danial's mastery of the technique. He had not expected Danial to wield such power so quickly, and he was impressed by the young cultivator's abilities.
Eamon approached the fallen Coby, helping him to his feet with a supportive hand. "It seems, Coby, that your accusations were unfounded," Eamon said calmly. "Danial has demonstrated his skill and his innocence. Accusations without evidence can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts."
Coby, still catching his breath and nursing his wounds, nodded in acknowledgment. He had been wrong in his accusations, and he knew that he would need to make amends for his rash actions.
Trainer Eamon's admiration for Danial's martial prowess was evident as he nodded in approval. "Impressive, Danial. You've not only proven your innocence but also showcased your mastery of the Iron Fists technique. Your training in this technique seems to be progressing at an astonishing rate."
Danial, still panting slightly from the duel, felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had cleared his name and demonstrated his abilities in front of his fellow cultivators. It was a pivotal moment in his journey at the Bright Light Academy.
Trainer Eamon's next question caught Danial off guard, however. "Danial," Eamon began thoughtfully, "do you have a previous master, someone who guided your early cultivation?"
Danial hesitated for a moment, the question unexpected and slightly unsettling. If he denied having a previous master, it might raise suspicions about how he had learned the Iron Fists technique so quickly. On the other hand, admitting to having a master could lead to more questions he wasn't prepared to answer.
"Why do you ask, Trainer Eamon?" Danial replied cautiously, trying to buy himself some time to formulate a response.
Eamon regarded him with a discerning gaze. "Your foundation in martial arts seems exceptionally strong for someone of your age and cultivation level. It's rare to see a cultivator grasp a technique like Iron Fists so quickly. I'm curious if you had a skilled teacher in your earlier years."
Danial's mind raced as he contemplated how to respond. He couldn't reveal the truth—that he had essentially been self-taught and had only recently begun practicing the Iron Fists technique. Admitting to having a wandering master who had taught him the basics seemed like a plausible explanation.
After a moment of careful consideration, Danial replied, "Yes, Trainer Eamon, I did have a master during my earlier years of cultivation. However, he was a wandering master who preferred to remain anonymous. He taught me some basic exercises and provided me with theoretical knowledge about martial arts and energy manipulation."
Eamon raised an eyebrow, his interest clearly piqued. "An anonymous wandering master, you say? That is indeed intriguing. Did your master impart any particular wisdom or guidance that has influenced your cultivation?"
Danial, feeling a growing unease at weaving this web of deception, replied, "My master was focused on the idea of self-discovery and self-improvement. He often told me that true mastery of the martial arts comes from within, and that one's journey is a personal path to enlightenment. He believed that each cultivator should forge their own way."
Eamon than asked him " What did your Master look like did he have any special feature or any recogniseble traits?"
Danial said with slowly " My Master forbade me from revealing anything about his appearance or identity. He believed that he would be easily recognized if I were to describe him to anyone."
Trainer Eamon's probing questions had left Danial feeling uneasy, and his mention of recognizing the description of Danial's wandering master sent a shiver down Danial's spine. He had woven a tale about an anonymous and secretive teacher, hoping to avoid any further scrutiny, but Eamon's reaction hinted at something more. Danial couldn't help but wonder if his deception had been exposed.
However, just as the tension between them seemed to reach its peak, Trainer Eamon's demeanor shifted. He let out a deep sigh and offered a nod of understanding. "I apologize, Danial, for prying into your past. It was not my intention to make you uncomfortable."
Danial let out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding, grateful that Eamon had seemingly dropped the matter. "Thank you for your understanding, Trainer Eamon. I appreciate it."
Eamon gave him a reassuring smile. "You've proven yourself today, both in skill and character. Continue your training with diligence, and you will surely make great strides in your cultivation."
Danial nodded and took a glance at his watch and said to Eamon " Trainer , I must bid you farewell I have to attend to something." With that Danial turned around and walked out of the academy to meet Pavan and his friends at the Golden leaf Hotel.
Eamon deeply watch Danial's back as he left the academy and also took notice of the Jade ring that Danial was wearing when he took a glance at his watch. He knew that, that young man had more secrets.
Eamon sighed slighty and retreated into the library.