Lightning king

Jack looked at Xiao Mei, who stood before him with unwavering determination. Her stance was straight, and her eyes sparkled with hope and ambition.

Alright, Xiao Mei," Jack began, crossing his arms. "Before we start, tell me—why do you want to learn martial arts? And be honest."

The girl hesitated, glancing briefly at her mother, who was watching from the doorway. She took a deep breath and met Jack's gaze. "I want to become strong," she said firmly. "To protect my family and my village. And... I want to see the world beyond these mountains. I want to go on adventures and fight demons.

Jack nodded, impressed by her answer. "Good. Determination is important. But remember, this path isn't easy. Martial arts require discipline, patience, and an unyielding spirit. Do you think you can handle that?"

Xiao Mei straightened her back. "Yes, Immortal Master."

Jack chuckled. "Call me Jack. I'm not an Immortal Master, just your instructor."

Xiao Mei looked confused for a moment but nodded. "Yes, Instructor Jack."

He started explaining about martial realms to Xiao mei." Everyone starts as a grade 3 martial artist in this realm people build strong foundation based of martial arts they chose. Martial artists are no different from ordinary people. It is our experience and discipline that differentiate a martial artist and a ordinary people."

"Let's begin, then." Jack gestured toward the yard. "Show me what you've got. I need to see where you stand before we go any further."

Xiao Mei nodded eagerly and followed him outside. She took her stance, her small fists raised in a basic guard. Jack watched as she performed a series of punches and kicks, her form rough but filled with enthusiasm.

"Not bat," Jack commented as she finished. "Your energy is good, but your technique needs work. You're putting too much strength into your punches without controlling your balance. That's why you're losing power halfway through the motion."

Xiao Mei blinked, surprised by his precise critique. "What should I do, Instructor Jack?"

"First, fix your stance," Jack instructed, stepping closer. He gently adjusted her feet and posture. "Keep your center of gravity stable. Your power comes from your core, not just your arms."

As Xiao Mei followed his guidance, Jack found himself slipping into a rhythm. He demonstrated a series of basic movements jabs, hooks, and defensive maneuvers—Jack couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his progress.

He asked Xiao Mei to do as he did

Hours passed, and the sun had already been replaced by starry sky. Xiao Mei's movements became more fluid, her confidence growing with each successful strike. Jack wiped the sweat from his brow and called for a break.

"Good work for today," he said, handing Xiao Mei a wooden cup of water. "You've got potential, but remember, this is just the beginning. And you should get good rest we will begin early tommorow." Waching her eagerness

Xiao Mei nodded, her determination clear as she gulped down the water.

Since I acquired a perfect body, my mistakes are minimal, Jack reflected as he watched Xiao Mei practice a few more stances before leaving. Teaching someone else is a great way to learn. By observing and correcting someone else's mistakes, I can refine my own skills as well.

...

The next day, after completing his daily routine, Jack went to meet Lin Ao.

"Greetings, Immortal Master," Lin Ao said respectfully, bowing slightly. He carried a sack that smelled of fresh herbs.

"Greetings," Jack replied. "You seem busy this morning."

"I'm preparing to go to the nearby city to sell these herbs," Lin Ao explained, adjusting the sack on his shoulder.

Jack hesitated briefly, then asked, "Would it be possible for me to join you?"

Lin Ao's face lit up with a smile. "It would be an honor, Immortal Master. Where would you like to go in the city?"

Jack paused, considering his options. He was hoping to find a place where he could establish a stable source of income. "I'm not familiar with the city. What places would you recommend?"

Lin Ao thought for a moment. "There's the market, where you'll find all kinds of goods and people. It's lively and full of opportunities. There's also the pharmacy, where I sell my herbs. And near the pharmacy is the guild hall, where adventurers and mercenaries gather."

"The guild hall?" Jack asked, his curiosity piqued.

Lin Ao nodded. "Yes. It's a place where people take on quests, trade information, and sometimes recruit others. If you're looking for work or connections, it might be worth exploring."

"Then I'd like to see it," Jack decided, determination in his voice.

"Very well," Lin Ao said, his smile widening. "Let's go together. I'll guide you there after I finish my business at the pharmacy."

Jack gave a small nod of gratitude. "Thank you, Lin Ao."

The two set off toward the city.

Jack adjusted his robe and fell in step with Lin Ao as they headed down the forest path. The fresh scent of herbs wafted from Lin Ao's sack, mingling with the earthy aroma of fresh herbs. The two walked in comfortable silence until the towering gates of the nearby city loomed ahead, bustling with life.

The city was a maze of activity. Merchants shouted their wares from vibrant stalls, their voices competing with the clatter of horse-drawn carts and the murmur of townsfolk. The streets were lined with cobblestone, and wooden signboards swung gently in the breeze above shops selling everything from silk to smoked fish. A group of children darted past,with neat robes.

"It's very lively here," Jack remarked, his eyes scanning the crowd, his sense of adventure stirring at the sight of a scene that could not be seen in the 21st century. Shaking his head, Jack thought, I should do what I came to do first. Exploration can happen another day.

"It's the lifeblood of the surrounding villages," Lin Ao replied, shifting the sack on his shoulder. "Everything flows in and out of here goods, people, and stories."

As they passed a street musician playing a lively tune, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafted from a nearby bakery. Jack inhaled deeply, savoring the blend of spices and wood.

They approached the pharmacy, an old stone building with ivy creeping up its walls and a sign painted with a mortar and pestle. Lin Ao gestured ahead. "The guild hall is just down that way," he said, pointing to the main road

Lin Ao nodded. "Shall we meet back here after my business is done?"

Jack considered for a moment, then agreed. "Yes, that works. I'll see you here."

Lin Ao gave a slight bow before disappearing into the pharmacy, leaving Jack to navigate the bustling streets toward the guild hall. The guild hall's imposing structure came into view, its heavy oak doors adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts.