The Reign of Zane Gardner

Chapter 13 - Unexpected Attack

As Zane's eagerness and interest in the mysteries of cultivation intensified, he allocated more and more of his time to meditating. 

His enthusiasm to test out his newfound abilities flourished and he persistently asked Cedric to test his senses, in the hope of sensing the energy running through his veins.

That was why Cedric several times intentionally attacked or threw small daggers or other items at Zane, when Zane was not paying attention to him. However, Zane always managed to evade the strikes.

Cedric, in a sudden burst of energy, threw a small object, possibly a dagger, several times at Zane. However, Zane was able to skillfully dodge each one.

Zane, having just barely evaded the sudden attack, breathed a sigh of relief as Cedric stepped out from behind the trees. The oppressive air that had been present had been replaced by an atmosphere of companionship and admiration.

“Master, I was surprised to see your cultivation level rise so dramatically in such a short period of time,” Cedric said, his voice carrying a tone of admiration. He was highly impressed with Zane's skill and advancement.

Zane turned to face Cedric, a smile playing on his lips. “Cedric, that was a really good throw,” he complimented, admiring Cedric's skill with the sword.

Cedric, who served not only as Zane's assistant but also as an expert in espionage and a master swordsman, nodded in acknowledgment.

Their relationship was based on mutual respect and trust, and moments like these only reinforced their connection.

Zane was feeling a rush of energy and motivation, and was eager to challenge himself. He asked Cedric, “Would you be my sparring partner? I want to test my skills.” His eyes shone with excitement as he awaited a response.

Cedric, understanding the gravity of Zane’s request, responded earnestly, “Sure, master. But I can’t just take it easy while fighting.”

His expression was serious, verifying that he would not go easy on him, ensuring that the spar would be a real test of Zane’s capabilities.

“That’s exactly what I want, Cedric,” Zane replied, his confidence and determination unmistakable.

Cecilia and Alfred followed their master, taking a seat on a large rock. Cecilia, her enthusiasm radiating, exclaimed, "Mr. Alfred, we are about to see an amazing show!"

Alfred smiled warmly. "Yes, Cecilia. Our master has worked incredibly hard and meditated for ages - I am very eager to see his martial arts skills in action!"

Zane and Cedric stood opposite each other, their expressions serious yet brimming with mutual respect. This was no ordinary spar; it was the fruit of Zane's arduous training in cultivation, testing his newly acquired abilities against Cedric's hard-earned expertise.

Cedric, understanding the significance of the duel, nodded solemnly, affirming his readiness.

Without any sign of hesitation, Zane sprung into action. He propelled himself towards Cedric, his movements a perfect combination of strength and agility. His right leg made a graceful arc and aimed a kick at Cedric's body.

Cedric, his swift and robust movement catching Zane's leg mid-air, displayed a testament of his strength and quick reflexes. He twisted Zane's leg in an attempt to unbalance and take him down.

Zane, ever adaptable and quick-thinking, used the momentum to his advantage and pushed off with his free leg, performing an agile backward leap that freed himself from Cedric's grasp.

"Wow...if I didn't already know them, I think I would have thought that this was a real fight." Cecilia murmured, her index finger on her lower lip.

She was incredibly amazed by what she was seeing, and she continued, "Cedric is really an extraordinary fighter. But, Master is also incredibly cool! I don't know who to support." She let out a soft chuckle.

"Yes, Cecilia. I never expected Master to be able to learn that quickly." Alfred replied in awe.

Cedric, not missing a beat, lunged forward with a well-placed punch towards Zane's stomach.

But Zane, his movements precise and controlled, deflected the punch with a swift parry.

Zane seized the opportunity and launched a counterattack, aiming a swift strike towards Cedric's head with his other hand. However, Cedric managed to block it just in time, his arms moving in perfect harmony to defend himself.

The duel persisted, each man attacking and defending the other, pushing them to their limits.

In their final exchange of blows, Zane's speed and improved technique allowed him to gain the upper hand. Cedric, unable to maintain his footing, stumbled and fell to the ground.

Reaching out to help Cedric up, Zane smiled warmly. "That was an amazing fight, Cedric," he said.

Cedric accepted the offer, rising to his feet with a laugh. "You've certainly come a long way, Master Zane. It's clear your training has paid off," he replied, brushing the dirt off his clothes.

Cecilia was filled with enthusiasm and admiration at the sight of Zane and Cedric's intense duel. Her eyes twinkling with excitement, she shouted out, "Master Cedric, that was incredible!"

Her voice echoing through the natural arena enclosed by the whispering trees, conveyed her genuine thrill of witnessing their exceptional display of strength and skill.

Zane and Cedric, their faces flushed from the rigor of their sparring match, turned their heads towards Cecilia's direction. Upon hearing her praises, they both smiled, still catching their breath.

"Thank you, Cecilia," Zane said, his voice warm with appreciation.

Cecilia gracefully jumped down from the rock and made her way towards them. Her steps were light and full of joy, reflecting her uplifted mood. 

“Master, with your great abilities and cultivation skills, I'm sure that you will become powerful cultivators very soon,” she said, her tone full of confidence and pride in Zane's accomplishments.

“Master, I have prepared some food for you. Let's go back home right away.”

Both Zane and Cedric nodded in agreement, their vigorous head movements showing their hunger.

In the world of cultivation, practitioners journey through various realms, each with its own unique challenges and milestones.

These realms, revered and sought after, consist of the Essence Novice, Qi Adept, Spirit Channeler, Harmonious Elemental, Celestial Attuner, and ultimately, the enigmatic Void.

Zane, had originally attained the status of a Qi Adept at level 3, a commendable feat that was indicative of his innate talent and commitment.

But his journey did not end there. With relentless practice and profound meditation, he was able to progress to level 5 in the Qi Adept realm.

This remarkable progress was not just a demonstration of his physical strength, but also of his mental strength and spiritual profundity.

At the fifth level of his Qi Adept training, Zane achieved a remarkable mastery over the life force.

He was able to direct the Qi with great precision and finesse, not only within his own body, but also in others'. His control over the Qi allowed him to bring out its healing properties and to greatly enhance his martial arts skills.

This mastery had a remarkable effect on Zane's physical abilities.

He was now able to demonstrate extraordinary strength, lightning-fast speed, unmatched reflexes and endless endurance - far exceeding the capabilities of any ordinary human. His impressive abilities as a Qi Adept were now truly formidable.

Not only does Zane possess remarkable healing abilities, but his powers also extend to advanced energy manipulation.

He can accelerate the healing of injuries, reduce pain, and restore balance to the body's internal energy flow.

His expertise in Qi cultivation is remarkable, allowing him to enhance not only his physical health, but also his spiritual growth and lifespan.

In addition, his exceptional external Qi cultivation has made him a formidable force in martial arts and other physical activities.

After finishing their dinner, Cecilia reminded Zane again, "Master, tomorrow is your schedule for dinner with the Charles Family. Would you like me to help you prepare the best suit for you to wear?"

"Hmm, Cecilia," Zane answered calmly, "I don't have many choices of clothes to wear after my previous divorce. I think I'll buy some clothes first."

"Sure, Master," Cecilia chuckled, "Tomorrow is an important moment, isn't it? Having dinner with Ms. Claire is every man's dream, so you should look your best. Do you need me to accompany you to choose clothes?"

"That's a good idea," he replied.