Dimensions Journey

After class, Liang Chen stepped out of the lecture hall, his eyes instinctively drawn to the translucent screen materializing before him. This time, he noticed changes. In a section he had customized himself, a new entry caught his attention: **"Martial Arts Progress,"** detailing his advancement in the techniques he'd learned so far:

- **Blood Devil Sword Technique**: 30% Mastery.

- **Blood Steps Technique**: 20% Mastery.

- **Analysis paused due to insufficient data.**

He studied the information intently. Despite his rapid progress, the screen reminded him he still had much to learn to fully grasp these techniques. *"Insufficient data… That means I need more training, practical experience, or access to additional martial arts,"* he muttered, clenching his fist with resolve. He wasn't ready to stall here.

He headed straight to the elite training grounds. Unlike the crowded public arenas, this space was reserved for top-tier students. A few others were present, each absorbed in their own drills, but Liang paid them no mind.

Drawing his sword, he assumed a combat stance. He began executing the Blood Devil Sword Technique, repeating each motion with meticulous precision, focusing on the flow of internal energy through his body. With every strike, he adjusted his rhythm and refined his force, but soon sensed a gap. *"The movements still lack fluidity… The energy isn't circulating properly."* He realized mere repetition wasn't enough.

After relentless practice, he shifted to the Blood Steps Technique. His feet darted swiftly, striving to muffle the sound of his movements. The technique relied on speed and evasion, making him feel as though he glided across the ground. Despite noticeable progress, his body hadn't fully adapted to the technique's demands.

Hours later, he returned to his room, utterly drained yet satisfied with the day's gains. Collapsing onto his bed, he gazed at the progress bar on his mental screen before surrendering to sleep.

The next morning, Liang woke early, revitalized by a surge of energy. There was no time to rest—he needed to resume training. Upon entering the lecture hall, he sensed an unusual tension. Unlike prior lessons on martial theory or world lore, something new awaited.

The instructor entered, surveying the room with calm authority. **"Today, we delve into internal energy techniques,"** he began. Silence fell—no one had expected such advanced material this soon. **"Internal energy is the foundation of a warrior's strength. Without it, even the finest martial techniques are meaningless motions."**

He continued, **"Internal energy techniques are tiered. Some span a single stage, others up to nine. More stages mean greater complexity, but quality isn't defined by stages alone—it's shaped by how energy is channeled within the body."** Pausing, he added, **"The technique I'll teach you today is the *Blood Technique*, a six-stage method. It's mid-tier in potency but unique: it gathers energy in the *heart* rather than the lower dantian, enabling faster recovery and wound healing."**

Liang listened intently. This revelation underscored how each technique's nuances could redefine combat.

After further explanations, the instructor distributed manuals on the Blood Technique. **"Study these thoroughly. Internal energy cultivation cannot be rushed. Your progress will be assessed later—do not slack."**

Liang clutched his manual, electrified by anticipation. He hurried to his room, flung himself onto his bed, and flipped open the book. His eyes devoured every line as he dissected its contents. *"Let's see what I can do with this,"* he whispered, closing his eyes, ready to plunge into a sea of newfound knowledge.