Immortal's Paradox

Lei sat cross-legged in a small clearing, his breath steady as he focused inward. The air around him was still, save for the occasional rustle of leaves in the forest canopy. Inside his mind, the Nanospirit's voice droned on, calculating, analyzing, perfecting.

Simulations complete. Movement technique, Iron Punch, and energy gathering technique have been optimized for current host physiology. All three techniques elevated to Peak Mortal Grade. Success rate during combat simulation: 87%.

"Only 87%?" Lei muttered, opening his eyes.

Remaining flaws attributed to host's lack of practical experience against humanoid opponents.

Lei groaned. "So even after improving these techniques, I still have gaps in my skill set."

"Your techniques are fine," Mao said lazily, stretched out on a low branch above. "The problem is you, mortal. A technique is only as good as the person using it."

Before Lei could respond, the faint twang of a bowstring snapped him out of his thoughts. His instincts screamed at him to move, but it was too late.

An arrow whistled through the air and struck his shoulder, the impact sending him staggering backward. The force wasn't enough to pierce his skin, thanks to his enhanced defenses, but it still left a sharp sting.

"Who's there?!" Lei barked, spinning toward the source of the attack.

From the shadows of the forest emerged a man clad in patchwork leather armor. His face was scarred, and his expression was one of cold calculation. A quiver of arrows rested on his back, and in his hands was a finely crafted bow.

"You're trespassing," the man said, his voice low and dangerous. "Hand over everything you have, and I might let you live."

Lei's mind raced. The archer was fast—much faster than any opponent he'd faced before. His movement technique wouldn't be enough to close the distance without getting hit again.

"Not happening," Lei growled, gritting his teeth as he crouched into a defensive stance.

"Suit yourself," the man replied, nocking another arrow.

The bandit moved first, loosing an arrow with lightning speed. Lei barely managed to sidestep, the projectile grazing his arm. His movement technique allowed him to close some of the distance, but the archer was skilled, retreating with quick, fluid steps as he fired another shot.

Recommendation: Predict attack trajectories. Observe opponent's draw angle and adjust movement accordingly, the Nanospirit advised.

"Easier said than done," Lei muttered, dodging another arrow.

The archer smirked, clearly enjoying the game of cat and mouse. "Not so tough now, are you?"

Gritting his teeth, Lei activated his Iron Punch technique, channeling qi into his fists. He couldn't afford to stay on the defensive. He lunged forward, his movements faster than before, but the archer's agility kept him out of reach.

As another arrow came flying, Lei ducked, rolling to the side and using the momentary cover of a tree to close the gap further. This time, when he lunged, he anticipated the archer's retreat, feinting left before striking right.

His fist connected with the archer's bow, shattering it into pieces. The man cursed, drawing a dagger from his belt, but Lei didn't give him a chance to retaliate. With a swift uppercut, Lei sent him sprawling to the ground.

The bandit groaned, clutching his broken ribs as Lei stood over him.

"You're good," Lei admitted, his breathing heavy. "But not good enough."

The archer spat blood, glaring up at him. "You think you're something special? You've got no idea what's out there, kid."

Lei frowned but didn't respond. Instead, he grabbed the man's quiver and inspected it. The arrows were expertly crafted, and the materials suggested he wasn't just a simple bandit.

"Where's your camp?" Lei asked, his voice cold.

The man laughed bitterly. "Like I'd tell you."

Lei sighed. "Fine. I'll figure it out myself."

With one final punch, he knocked the man unconscious

"You're terrible at this," Mao said as Lei slumped against a tree to catch his breath.

"Terrible at what?" Lei shot back, wincing as he checked his injuries.

"Fighting humans," Mao replied, hopping down from its perch. "You're used to animals—predictable, straightforward. Humans are different. They think, they adapt, they exploit weaknesses. If you want to survive, you need more than brute strength and flashy techniques."

Lei frowned, mulling over the cat's words. "So what do you suggest?"

Mao's golden eyes glinted mischievously. "There's a bandit camp nearby. Perfect place to hone your skills. Fight them, learn from them, and maybe you'll stop embarrassing yourself."

Lei considered the idea. It was dangerous, but Mao wasn't wrong. He needed to build real combat experience, and taking on the bandits would be a good way to start.

"Alright," Lei said, standing up. "But I'll need to be faster if I'm going to survive. These guys are quick, and my movement technique isn't enough."

"Then find something that is," Mao said, its tail flicking.

Lei's gaze hardened. "I'll figure it out."

As they moved deeper into the forest, Lei began tracking a new target: a monster jaguar known for its unparalleled speed and agility. Mao had suggested the creature, claiming it would provide the perfect enhancement for Lei's movement technique.

"Think you can handle it?" Mao teased as they followed the faint claw marks on the trees.

Lei smirked, his confidence slowly returning. "I've handled worse."

The cat's only response was a soft chuckle as they pressed on, the faint rustle of leaves and the distant growls of unseen creatures filling the air. The hunt had only just begun.