Linfei moved quietly through the clan estate, his mind focused on what lay ahead. After days of rigorous cultivation and silent determination, he was ready to take the next step—visiting the clan library to learn martial arts that would complement his growing strength. The worn wooden building stood near the compound's center, holding the clan's long-guarded knowledge within its walls.
The familiar scent of aged paper and ink enveloped him. Towering shelves were lined with scrolls and leather-bound manuals, carefully organized and stamped with the clan's seal. Near the entrance stood the guarding elder, his gaze flickering briefly to Linfei before returning to his watchful silence. No words were exchanged, but the elder's expression was firm and unyielding.
Linfei said nothing, instead moving directly toward the section labeled for the clan's First Level martial arts—known as the "Yellow Level." This rank was the only one accessible to cultivators of Linfei's level and was understood to be foundational and rudimentary. Within the Yellow Level, techniques were further divided into Lower, Middle, and High stages, marking progressive difficulty and strength.
He unfurled several scrolls one after another, quietly studying the contents. There was "Stone Palm Boxing" from the Lower Stage, a slow but powerful style emphasizing solid stances and crushing blows. Nearby was "Shadow Fist," faster and more agile, relying on swift footwork and rapid jabs. Another was "Crimson Crane Boxing," graceful and fluid, teaching the flow of Qi with precise strikes.
After careful consideration, Linfei's gaze settled on a Middle Stage technique called "Iron Fist Boxing." Its blend of steady power and fluid motion aligned well with his own patient disposition. The detailed diagrams showed how to channel Qi into each strike, amplifying impact through controlled breathing and focused energy.
He gathered the scroll with quiet resolve, rolling it carefully. As he turned to leave, the elder's eyes briefly met his again. Without a word, the elder silently handed him another sealed scroll—a reminder that the clan imposed a strict time limit on borrowing martial arts manuals. They expected their knowledge returned promptly and in good condition, a clear, unspoken warning to Linfei that even his furtive access came with boundaries.
Holding the scroll, Linfei quietly left the library and headed back to his small room. With the manual in hand, he prepared to begin his training