Earth's Greatest Magus

"Why is she here again?"

The murmured question rippled through the group of Hall 120 acolytes like a disapproving wave. Confusion etched their expressions as they glanced at the silver-haired girl, whose unexpected appearance seemed to disrupt the anticipated atmosphere of the training session.

It was an occasion eagerly anticipated by many, as their main instructor was scheduled to provide his session for the first time. However, the presence of the silver-haired girl seemed to cast a shadow over their excitement.

Despite sensing the unfriendly atmosphere and the silent questioning of her presence, Shinta remained composed and determined to maintain her best behavior. Having spent the last two days immersed in the Origin stone room, she had emerged solely for this training session. With a genuine smile, she approached the other acolytes, extending a friendly greeting.

"Hi, I'm Shura," she said warmly, "I'm glad we could learn together."

With no satisfactory explanation following Shinta's introduction, a sense of curiosity lingered among some of the acolytes. They couldn't help but silently hope that their instructor would provide some clarity.

However, Emery's response was brief yet intriguing. "She's... family," his words caused a ripple of understanding to spread through the group. Shinta couldn't suppress a smile at Emery's explanation, while Klea, in contrast, let out a resigned sigh.

Without further delay, Emery positioned himself before the assembled group of 22 acolytes, a sense of anticipation hanging in the air. With a commanding presence, he began to introduce the techniques that would form the cornerstone of their training for the next six months: [Dao Steps] and [Dao Swords].

With a steady voice, Emery delved into the intricacies of each technique, breaking them down into their respective stages. He explained that the [Dao Steps] comprised four distinct phases, while [Dao Swords] were divided into six stages, ranging from simplified forms to more advanced and complex maneuvers.

Emery proceeded to unveil the essence of their training, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the techniques they were about to learn. Each technique, he explained, could be mastered individually and proved beneficial when combined with other weapons or movement styles. However, their true potency was realized when practiced together, as they adhered to the fundamental principle of Dao.

To lay the groundwork for their instruction, Emery introduced the concept of the [Dao Heart]. This foundational technique, he revealed, comprised eight stages and served as the cornerstone upon which their mastery of the Dao would be built.

"We will start by learning this first!" Emery declared his tone firm yet encouraging.

The announcement elicited a mixed response from the acolytes. Some couldn't conceal their disappointment at the prospect of yet another meditation session, while others remained open-minded, eager to absorb the wisdom imparted by their instructor.

As Emery began his teachings, the initial skepticism gave way to a profound sense of focus. His words, delivered with a tranquil yet commanding presence, seemed to reverberate within their minds, weaving a tapestry of understanding that resonated deeply with those who listened.

"Dao is the flow of the universe, It is the essence, the pattern that governs the natural world. It is the energy that moves in action and existence..."

With a formidable spirit reading, Emery possessed the ability to transmit his teachings, one that rippled into the minds of his acolytes. The techniques he imparted were rooted in the [Dao Divine Technique], one which he accumulated through years of study and personal insight.

Emery began by introducing the first three stages of the [Dao Heart], providing the acolytes with ample time to internalize and comprehend the teachings. As they delved into the depths of their consciousness, they grappled with the intricate concepts presented to them.

After 4 hours, Out of the 22 acolytes present, excluding Damo, who already possessed an understanding of the advanced stages, a select few managed to exhibit remarkable progress. Ten acolytes successfully navigated through the challenges of the first stage, while remarkably three surpassed the second stage: Dillion, Haron, and surprisingly, Shinta.

Dillion's achievement came as no surprise, given his reputation as a top 100 genius. However, the inclusion of Haron and Shinta among the progressed few raised eyebrows and sparked intrigue among their peers.

Emery quickly deduced the source of Haron's proficiency, recognizing him as the disciple of Broken Sword and Flying Snow, renowned practitioners of a similar Dao path. The similarities between their teachings and Emery's own skills provided Haron with a foundation upon which to build his understanding.

However, it was Shinta's unexpected advancement that garnered the most attention. Her sudden leap in advancement prompted speculation among the acolytes, with some attributing it to her familial connection to Emery.

"Maybe, master already taught her before... you know, being family..." whispered one acolyte.

Hearing this, Shinta didn't get irritated at all; instead, she felt a sense of contentment, thinking inwardly, "It seems... genius runs within the family..."

Emery, recognizing the varying levels of advancement among the acolytes, decided to allow those who hadn't yet understood the first stage of the [Dao Heart] to continue their studies at their own pace. Meanwhile, those who had succeeded were given the green light to delve into the intricacies of both the [Dao Steps] and [Dao Swords].

With the stage set for further instruction, Emery proceeded to exhibit the first two stages of each technique with precision and grace. The acolytes watched intently, absorbing every movement and technique with eager anticipation.

As the demonstration concluded, Emery concluded the day's lesson with a practical exercise. Forming sturdy wooden poles and wooden swords as many as the acolytes, he meticulously marked twelve distinct targets. With a commanding presence, he instructed the acolytes on the proper execution of basic strikes, thrusts, and slashes.

"Finish 1,000,000 strikes, and I will teach you the next stages of the techniques,"

Emery had managed to complete the task within 10 days. However, he was well aware that the acolytes under his tutelage had a myriad of other subjects and skills to master. He didn't expect them to complete the challenge as swiftly as he had; rather, his intention was to gauge their commitment to learning and their willingness to persevere through challenges.

With the instructions delivered and questions addressed, Emery turned the acolytes' attention to another important matter: the monthly evaluations. He emphasized the significance of these evaluations, explaining that the top four acolytes who demonstrated the greatest comprehension of the two skills would be rewarded with contribution points. Furthermore, they would have a higher likelihood of being selected to receive his personal coaching.

The prospect of recognition and personalized guidance ignited a wave of excitement among the acolytes. Some returned to their meditation, while others eagerly picked up their wooden swords, ready to practice their strikes on the awaiting poles.

As for Shinta, the mention of "personal coaching" resonated deeply with her.