14 Chapter 11: Martial Chamber
The next morning, I stretched and yawned my way out of my bed. I made my way to the window, curious about the day's activities outside.
Looking out, I saw Gelong-ma Dolma engaged in the delicate task of harvesting silk from the silkworms. The process was fascinating to watch, especially because of her mindful approach. Unlike the conventional method where silkworms are often boiled to extract the silk, ensuring the fabric remains soft, Gelong-ma Dolma used a different, more compassionate technique.
She was creating what was known as Ahsima silk back on earth, a process that took longer but allowed for the silkworms to live. The method required careful handling and patience, as each strand of silk was gently drawn from the silkworms in a way that didn't harm them. I shook my head at reminder of our values – respect for all living beings and patience in our endeavors, and the lengths we were to go for them.
Usually, the worms are boiled so the silk doesn't go hard due to a natural chemical reaction. But, in doing so the worms are usually killed as they just get boiled alive in their cocoons. Ahsima silk doesn't boil them and instead waits another 7- 10 days for the moths to come out of their cocoons and then harvest the silk.
I watched for a few more moments, admiring the serene and focused way Gelong-ma Dolma worked.
Descending the stairs, the scent of the morning air filled my senses. I entered the main area of the house and found Gelong-ma Dolma, who greeted me with a warm smile.
"Good morning, Gelong-ma," I said, returning her smile.
"Good morning, Daniel. Did you sleep well?" she asked, her voice carrying the usual comforting tone.
We engaged in some light small talk, discussing the weather and the plans for the day. She was always easy to talk to, her presence bringing a sense of calm and warmth to the start of my day.
After our conversation, I offered to help her with unwinding the silk from the cocoons. The task was delicate and required a gentle touch. The silk felt soft and slightly sticky as I carefully unwound it, marveling at the texture and the intricate process of silk harvesting.
As we worked, I mentioned to Gelong-ma Dolma that Shifu had instructed me to report to his house for training. She nodded thoughtfully, then requested, "Stay a little longer and help me with these cocoons, then you can go. There's some porridge left in a container for you. Make sure you eat before your training."
I agreed, happy to help and understanding the importance of a good meal before the physical exertion that awaited me. We continued with the silk harvesting for a while longer, the morning passing peacefully as we worked together in comfortable silence.
After helping Gelong-ma Dolma to a satisfactory point, I washed my hands and moved to the kitchen. There, I found the container of porridge she had mentioned. It was warm, filling, and exactly what I needed to fuel my body for the training ahead. I ate quietly, savoring the simple yet nourishing meal.
Finishing my breakfast, I cleaned up after myself, placing the container in the designated area for washing. With a sense of readiness and anticipation for the day's training, I thanked Gelong-ma Dolma for the meal and headed out towards Shifu's house, curious about what lessons and challenges he had prepared for me today.
Energized from the morning's activities and the nourishing breakfast, I set off jogging towards Lei Kung's home. The distinction between his workplace – the grand palace where I woke up after my "chi surge"– and his personal residence was always clear in my mind. His home was a more intimate setting, nestled closer to the orphanage, and it offered a different, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the palace.
As I jogged, the familiar sights and sounds of K'unLun enveloped me. The path to Lei Kung's home took me through parts of the community that always felt vibrant and alive. The relatively short distance of about two miles was a pleasant journey, offering a chance to greet and interact with various residents of our community.
Along the way, I spotted Tashi, the blacksmith, who was busy at his forge. I waved to him, and he looked up from his work, a broad smile spreading across his face as he returned the gesture. Tashi and I had struck up a good rapport over time. He was a skilled craftsman, known for his exceptional work in forging weapons and tools. His robust laughter and jovial nature made him a favorite among the residents, myself included.
"Daniel, hurry up and grow older. My back may go bad before I get to forge your first weapon!" he called out, his voice booming over the clinking sounds of his forge.
"I will grow fast, Mr.Tashi, don't worry about it!" I replied, grinning. The idea of having a weapon forged by Tashi was something I looked forward to. It was a rite of passage for many young warriors in training, and the thought of what kind of weapon he might create for me was always a source of excitement.
As I approached Lei Kung's home, I slowed my pace, gathering my thoughts and focusing on the training ahead. Lei Kung's residence, in contrast to the palace, was more modest but still carried a sense of dignity and peace.
The house was built in traditional K'unlunian style, with sloping roofs adorned with intricate tile work that gleamed under the sun. The exterior walls were a warm, earthy tone, complementing the natural surroundings.
Neatly trimmed shrubs and a small, well-tended garden added to the welcoming feel of the home. The garden was a medley of medicinal herbs and vibrant flowers, displaying Lei Kung's interest in herbal medicine and his appreciation for nature's beauty.
I took a deep breath, readying myself for whatever lessons and challenges awaited me, and knocked on the door, prepared to embrace the day's training with an open mind.
I raised my hand and knocked gently on the door of Lei Kung's house. Moments later, the door swung open to reveal Lei Kung's wife. She stood there, a picture of grace and warmth. Her light brown skin was complemented by a maternal smile that seemed to light up her face.
Her long black hair fell gracefully over her shoulders, and she was dressed in a kimono, the fabric rich and beautiful, adorned with intricate patterns that spoke of elegance and care.
"Good morning," I greeted her with a respectful bow. "I'm here for my training with Shifu."
"Good morning, Daniel," she replied, her voice as warm as her smile. "Lei Kung is expecting you. Please, come in."
As I stepped inside, the homely warmth of the house enveloped me. The interior was as serene and welcoming as ever, reflecting the peaceful life Lei Kung and his family led.
"Your Shifu is in Davos's room," she informed me, gesturing towards the back of the house. "He's preparing something for your training today."
"Thank you," I said, moving in the direction she indicated. As I walked through the house, I could feel the calm energy that it exuded, a stark contrast to the rigorous atmosphere of the training grounds.
Reaching Davos's bedroom, I heard Lei Kung's voice calling from within. "Come in, Daniel."
I entered the room, finding it to be a simple, well-kept space, much like the rest of the house. Shifu was there, standing near the bed.
"Good morning, Shifu," I said, bowing slightly as I entered.
"Good morning, Daniel. Ready for another day of training?" Lei Kung asked, a slight twinkle in his eye that hinted at the challenges he had planned for the day.
As I waited in Davos's room with Lei Kung, the atmosphere was one of quiet anticipation. Lei Kung broke the silence, "Davos is in the bathroom. As soon as he joins us, we'll begin with today's objective."
A few minutes passed, and then Davos entered the room. We acknowledged each other with a mutual nod and bumped fists. Standing side by side, we turned our attention to Shifu, ready for whatever lessons he had in store for us.
Lei Kung regarded us both with a look of deep satisfaction. "Over the past two months, you both have made significant progress," he began, his voice carrying a note of pride. "You have shown dedication, resilience, and a willingness to learn. I believe you are both ready to embark on the next stage of your training. It's time for you both to select your first martial art styles"
At his words, a sense of excitement passed between me and Davos. We exchanged smiles and bumped fists again.
The revelation of learning our first martial art styles filled the room with an air of expectancy. Davos, ever curious, voiced the question that lingered in the air, "Why are we in my bedroom for that?"
Lei Kung responded not with words, but with action. He extended his finger, and a soft turquoise glow began to emanate from it. The light grew brighter and more intense, forming a flame-like aura around his finger, a clear demonstration of the amount of chi he was channeling
With a serene expression, Lei Kung knelt down and gently placed his glowing finger onto the center of the wooden floor. To our astonishment, green lines, inscribed in an intricate script that resembled Sanskrit, began to spread across the floor like tendrils of light, creating patterns that resembled a magical formation.
The room was filled with an intense energy, the air almost vibrating with the power of the chi-infused script. Then, with a fluid motion, Lei Kung rose and stepped back to stand beside us. The wooden floor where he had been kneeling moments ago transformed, opening up into a set of grayish stairs that spiraled downwards into the unknown depths beneath the house.
The sight was magical.
Davos and I exchanged a glance, both of us realizing the significance of this moment. This was more than just learning a new martial art style; it was an initiation into the first steps of our training as warrior monks.
Lei Kung, observing our reactions, nodded encouragingly. "This is where you will begin to understand the true essence of martial arts. Down these stairs lies my personal library of martial styles, a place where generations of my personal students have come to learn and grow. Here, you will choose your paths and begin to forge your own styles."
Descending the stairs, a magical scene unfolded before us. With each step we took, torches affixed to the walls ignited spontaneously, casting a soft green fire that illuminated our path.
As we walked, Davos and I engaged in hushed conversation, our voices echoing slightly in the enclosed stairwell. "Did you have any idea this was under your house?" I asked, my voice a mixture of wonder and curiosity.
Davos shook his head, his eyes wide with amazement. "Never," he replied. "I had no clue."
I could smell it.
The scent of nectar.
It was a fragrance that reminded me of the joyful laughter and playfulness of the children in the orphanage, drenched in the scent of flowers. It was the smell of happiness.
Observing Davos closely, I could see that he was more than just surprised; he was genuinely happy. There was a lightness in his step, a brightness in his eyes that I hadn't seen before. Perhaps the fact that this sacred and important place was hidden within his own bedroom held a deeper meaning for him.
Maybe it was a symbol of trust and honor from his father, or perhaps it was just a happy coincidence. Regardless of the reason, at this moment, Davos was experiencing a pure, unadulterated joy.
Finally, we reached the bottom of the staircase, stepping into a giant library.
Lei Kung turned to us, his face serene yet solemn. "Welcome to my Martial Chamber," he announced.
Lei Kung's voice echoed softly in the vast expanse of the library as he began to explain the intricacies of the Martial Chamber. The library itself was an architectural marvel, with high ceilings supported by ornate pillars and rows upon rows of ancient scrolls and books, their spines etched with golden characters.
Some shelves were so high they disappeared into the shadowy ceiling, accessible only by tall, winding ladders.
"The Martial Chamber is not just a library," Lei Kung said, gesturing towards the countless tomes. "It is my sanctuary of knowledge, a repository of ancient martial wisdom gathered over millennia."
As we walked, Lei Kung pointed out different sections of the library, each dedicated to a specific martial art or chi technique. The air was thick with the scent of aged paper and wood, mixed with a faint aroma of incense.
"Monks in K'unlun are distinguished by their mastery of martial arts and chi," Lei Kung continued. "There are five ranks, but for now, you need only concern yourselves with the first four."
"The first rank is the Martial Adept," he said. "This rank focuses purely on martial conditioning, honing the body and mind through rigorous physical training. It is a stage of building strength, agility, and endurance, without any involvement of chi manipulation."
I glanced at Davos, "So, basically us, huh? At least, we know where we stand now."
Davos nodded, absentmindedly.
He was too enraptured to care about anything I said right now.Lei Kung smiled faintly, then continued, "Next, we have the rank of Chi Practitioner. Here, monks start their exploration into the world of chi. This rank involves rudimentary chi manipulation, such as channeling chi into strikes, enhancing physical capabilities modestly. It marks the beginning of the integration of chi with martial arts."
Davos, always the more serious, nodded thoughtfully. "Integrating chi... that's when it gets serious."
I winced ahead of time, already knowing the incoming action.
*THWAP
Davos stood rubbing the back of his head, as Shifu stared at him after slapping him.
"Do not diminish the efforts of your brothers and sisters. There are numerous Martial Adepts that can easily defeat pretentious Chi Practitioners."
He muttered, "I'm sorry", Shifu nodded.
"The third rank is that of the Chi Spirit," he elaborated. "Monks at this level have developed their skills to use chi as an external force, projecting it in various forms for defense or attack. It signifies a higher level of mastery over chi, where it becomes a versatile tool in the monk's arsenal."
I couldn't help but interject, a memory flashing in my mind. "Shifu, is that the level Gelong Dechen is at? The monk you battled when I first met you?"
I met Dechen again around a month ago, he's a good man. He was actually in his early 70's, but barely looked in his early 30's.
Chi mixed with K'unlunian blood was something else.
Shifu's expression softened with recollection. "Yes, Dechen had just attained the rank of Chi Spirit by that time. His use of chi has always been creative."
Davos whistled, "Father, the battles between you and Dechen are supernatural. It's hard to believe we might reach that level someday."
Shifu smiled. "In time and with dedication, all things are possible.
We waited in silence for the explanation for the fourth rank.
Lei Kung had paused for a long time before speaking of the fourth rank, his expression turning more enigmatic.
"The fourth rank is the Chi Grandmaster. This level of mastery is...," he trailed off, choosing his words carefully. "Let's just say it goes beyond what can be easily explained or understood. It encompasses abilities and wisdom that are the culmination of a lifetime of dedication and transcendence. For now, focus on the path ahead. The mysteries of the Chi Grandmaster will reveal themselves in due time."
I was honestly confused. Shifu was never hesitant. Ever. He always had the answer, I guess it really was just that special.
I hesitated for a moment before asking the question that had been on my mind. "And you, Shifu, what level are you at?"
Lei Kung, who had been standing with a contemplative air, looked at me. A faint, knowing smile appeared on his face, the kind that held untold stories and wisdom gained through years of dedication.
"I have reached the peak of the fourth level," he replied, his voice tinged with a humble pride. " I am at the peak of the fourth rank, a Chi Grandmaster."
I stared at him. Hard.
Lei Kung, a figure of almost mythical stature, had lived for nearly a million years. Shifu's talents and mastery were beyond question, yet he was only at the fourth level.
Unbelievable.
A million years. How many battles? How many heartbreaks? How many experiences has he lived through?
Hell… I don't even understand how he even remains sane sometimes. It's beyond my understanding to be honest.
However, why was he only at the fourth level? What did it mean for the elusive fifth rank?
I pondered silently, trying to grasp the enormity of what the fifth rank might entail. If someone as skilled and as long-lived as Lei Kung was at the fourth level.
Then, how long would it take me.
Oh well, not that I care.
My path isn't just mastering Chi. I have near uncountable paths of power available to me and it's only through eliminating the fluff and getting the real gold and smelting it together to create a true path of power, that I have a chance.
Who cares if I don't master chi 100%?
I'll master 95% of it.
I smiled at my cheekiness.
Suddenly, Shifu interrupted my thoughts by delving deeper into the nuances of how rank progression affected chi abilities.
"Each advancement in rank not only brings new abilities but also enhances your existing chi skills," he explained. "The quality and efficiency of your chi manipulation improve significantly with each rank."
Huh, sounds like cultivation
He then provided a vivid example to illustrate his point. "Consider two monks, one at the peak of Rank 2 and the other a beginner at Rank 3, engaging in a test of strength using chi-enhanced punches.
Despite using the same amount of chi, their blows would not be equal. When their fists meet, after a brief struggle, the Rank 3 monk would overpower the Rank 2, potentially causing significant damage."
Yup… Definitely, Cultivation.
Davos raised an eyebrow. "So, it's not just about how much chi you have, but how you use it?"
"Exactly," Lei Kung affirmed. "A higher rank means more refined control and potency in chi use. It's a common misconception that chi capacity is the sole determinant of a monk's power. While it's true that natural chi capacity increases by about 10% with each rank progression, the real difference lies in the quality and efficiency of chi utilization."
Oooo… Maybe not. Usually, with each rank progression that would mean your energy levels progress by nearly tenfold.
This is more realistic, the rank progression is more about your understanding than random power ups by chugging medicines.
I pondered this, realizing the complexity of the ranking system. "So, it's rare for someone of a lower rank to overpower a higher rank because of this difference in chi quality?"
Lei Kung nodded. "Yes, while not impossible, it is rare. For instance, a peak Rank 1 might occasionally overcome an intermediate Rank 2 due to skill or strategy, but a peak Rank 2 would find it extremely challenging to defeat even an intermediate Rank 3. The gap in chi manipulation and control is significant."
Davos and I exchanged a look.
"This is why your training will be rigorous and multifaceted," Lei Kung continued. "It's not just about accumulating chi or learning techniques. You must refine your chi, understand its essence, and learn to channel it with precision and efficiency."
Lei Kung nodded, ready to delve into the subtleties of chi efficiency, a key factor distinguishing the mastery levels within each rank.
"Efficiency in using chi is what sets apart the beginners from those at the peak within each rank," he began, his voice reflecting the gravity of the subject. "Take the example of forming chi weapons, which is a skill developed at Rank 3. The amount of chi wasted in this process is a clear indicator of a monk's proficiency and control."
He gestured subtly, as if illustrating his point with the movement of his hands. "A beginner at Rank 3, having just stepped into this new realm of ability, typically lacks the finesse in chi control. Consequently, they waste a significant amount of chi, nearly 80 percent, in the process of forming weapons. Their creations might be unstable or short-lived."
I exchanged a look with Davos, both of us absorbing the complexities of chi efficiency. It was becoming clear that mastery was not just about having the ability but wielding it with precision and minimal waste.
Lei Kung continued, "As the monk progresses to an intermediate level within Rank 3, their efficiency improves. The wastage reduces to about 50 percent. Their chi weapons become more stable, lasting longer, and are more potent."
Davos nodded, understanding dawning in his eyes. "So, the journey through each rank is as much about reducing waste as it is about increasing power."
"Indeed," Lei Kung affirmed. "And at the peak of Rank 3, the monk achieves remarkable efficiency, wasting only about 15 percent of their chi in creating weapons. Their weapons are not only durable and potent but also reflect a deep harmony with their chi."
I thought about the implications. "So, individual talent plays a role too?"
"Yes, individual talent and aptitude can influence efficiency," Lei Kung acknowledged. "Some monks might naturally waste slightly less chi, or more, due to their innate affinity with chi. However, this difference is usually marginal. The key is persistent training and deepening one's understanding of chi."
That's… surprisingly fair.
I like that.
However there was one key aspect missing and as I glanced at Davos, he noticed it too.
Davos, who had been attentively listening, posed a thoughtful question. "Father, what about natural chi capacity? How does that factor into our progression?"
Lei Kung's face lit up with a smile, clearly pleased with the question. "Well done, Davos. That's an important aspect to consider. Natural chi capacity is indeed a critical element in your development as a martial monk. It's one of the few aspects that hard work and determination alone cannot change."
He paused for a moment, ensuring we were following along. "Chi capacity is the foundation upon which all your abilities are built. While each rank advancement provides a similar percentage increase in chi capacity, those with a higher natural capacity will see a larger absolute increase in their chi reserves."
I could see Davos processing this information, his brow furrowed in thought. It was a crucial point – the natural capacity one started with set the potential for future growth.
"So, someone with a higher natural chi capacity has an advantage?" Davos asked.
Shifu paused.
"It's important to be candid about the role of talent in your journey as martial monks," Shifu began, his tone turning more serious. "While the culture and values of K'unlun emphasize hard work and determination, we cannot ignore the existence of innate talent, especially in relation to chi capacity."
He paused, ensuring his words were sinking in. "Talent, in the form of natural chi capacity, is a significant component of a monk's potential. It's a reality that we must acknowledge. Some individuals are born with a higher natural capacity for chi, and this gives them an advantage in terms of the raw energy they can harness."
A repugnant and acidic smell assaulted my nose. It was odd. It made me feel jittery, like butterflies in my stomach.
Anxiety.
I looked at Davos and he was staring at the ground. He was anxious as hell and honestly I don't blame him.
"However," Lei Kung continued, "this does not mean that hard work and determination are less valuable. On the contrary, they are essential. Talent can give someone a head start, but without the dedication to train, refine, and understand that talent, it will remain just potential."
Davos looked up slowly, absorbing the lesson. "So, it's about making the most of what we have, whether it's a lot or a little."
"Exactly," Lei Kung affirmed. "In K'unlun, we believe in maximizing your potential, whatever it may be. Your journey is not just about expanding your chi but also about deepening your wisdom, honing your skills, and cultivating mental and spiritual strength. These aspects are where hard work and determination play a crucial role."
I looked around the metal chamber we were in.
I couldn't help but soak it in. All my life, I've always envied these characters.
Now I am one of them.
This life. I want it to be amazing. When I'm on my deathbed dying, I wanna die with a goddamn smile on my face.
Because… How could you live and not have any story to tell?
I suppressed the chill going up my spine, I tried to fight the cheshire smile off my face. I was failing miserably though.
Maybe, because deep down… I know this is something I've always wanted.
Shifu drew my attention once again as he started talking again.
Having provided a thorough understanding of the monk ranks and the importance of chi efficiency and capacity, Shifu shifted the topic to the specific martial arts practiced in K'unlun. He explained that these too were categorized into distinct ranks, each with its own focus and techniques.
"In K'unlun, our martial arts are divided into four ranks," Lei Kung began. "The first rank comprises the Mortal arts, which are the foundational martial skills. These are divided into five categories: Striking, Weapon, Grappling, Movement, and Conditioning."
I listened intently, mentally noting each category. These Mortal arts were probably like the manuals on earth about fighting and other aspects of fitness.
"The second rank consists of the Chi arts," Shifu continued. "These include advanced techniques that integrate chi with martial skills. The Chi arts are divided into Striking, Movement, Weapon Arts, and Meditation Classics."
Davos looked particularly interested in the Meditation Classics, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.
Shifu spoke with a glint in his eyes as he spoke, "The third rank consists of the Sutras, and the fourth is known as Taboo Sutras. These are advanced practices that you will learn about in due time."
He paused, giving us a moment to absorb the information, then proceeded with our immediate task. "Today, you are here to choose the disciplines you will begin with. From the Mortal arts, you will select one each from Striking, Grappling, and Movement. You will also choose one Meditation Classic from the Chi arts. The Weapon Arts will come later."
Shifu stared into our eyes as he stopped talking for a second, before beginning to talk again.
"Take your time to consider your options," Lei Kung said. "
"Shifu, do you have any recommendations for us?" I asked, hoping for some guidance in navigating through the multitude of choices.
"Fate is a very real thing, Daniel Rand Kai," Lei Kung replied with a knowing look. "It is important that you choose disciplines that resonate with you, that draw you in. Your choices will reveal much about your approach to martial arts and self-improvement."
He gestured towards the vast array of scrolls and texts. "Browse through these ancient teachings. Select what intrigues you, what speaks to your heart and mind. This process is as much about self-discovery as it is about skill acquisition."
Davos and I nodded, understanding the wisdom in his words. This wasn't just about picking a skill; it was about aligning our choices with our inner selves, our interests, and our aspirations.
"You both are well aware of your strengths and weaknesses," Lei Kung continued. "Your selections will indicate whether you prefer to build upon your strengths and specialize or cover your weaknesses to become more well-rounded. Both approaches have their merits and will shape your path as martial artists."
I honestly felt damn excited. Davos seemed to share this feeling, his eyes scanning the scrolls with a mix of excitement and seriousness.
"We'll choose wisely, Shifu," I said, determined to embrace this opportunity to its fullest.
Davos added, "It's an honor to have such freedom in our training. We won't take this lightly."
Lei Kung nodded, pleased with our responses. "Trust your instincts and let your interests guide you. The path you choose today will be the first step in a long and fulfilling journey."
THE END.
Author's Note: I can already imagine the complaints about the chapter being "mostly" an info dump. This was essential though, a good way for everyone to understand the power system and let it marinate in your heads before the next chapter.
Some slice of life and some cultivation-esque elements. Sue me, what could I do? They're modeled after ancient China for god sake, they can literally be called the birthplace of cultivation.
I always try to include some Asian cultural items such as the Miswak from previous chapters and Ahimsa silk from India in this chapter. I want to it as "real" as I can, despite how "unreal" K'unlun seems like.
I honestly spent most of the week writing an outline for the rest of the arc and I would say we have around a solid 10-20 chapters, maybe more left for K'unlun. I have solid ideas for this.
Tons of actions in the upcoming weeks.
Also, I'm thinking of making him around 14 for the 2012 Loki Invasion and 17 in Age of Ultron. Thus, making him around 18 for the Civil War.
These events will be a mixture of comic and mcu elements, with it being mostly comics. The MCU just allows such nice origin stories and actual reasons behind motives unlike the comics.
This is just a way for people to understand what is going on in the outside world while Danny is in K'unlun. I will not spoil when he will come to earth, it may or may not be one of the events above.
This chapter was 4850 words without the author's note.
Enjoy and let me know what y'all thought.
