Chapter 10: A Glimpse into the Past

"Relax, Senior Sister, I know it in my heart," Jiangli reassured, his hand gesturing with a gentle smile. "Up until now, I've only used this move twice. Apart from today, the only other time was when I first created it, and I experimented with it then."

The passage of time had brought about profound changes. Just a year ago, Jiangli had embarked on his journey of mastering the Noble Art, guided by the teachings of his mentor, the formidable God of War Nangou Torajirou. This transformation was no small feat; it took him a year to attain his current level of strength, most of which was dedicated to the grueling process of rehabilitation and rigorous physical training.

The formidable technique known as "Lightning Flint" had been unleashed a mere three times. The initial trial run had nearly sent his soul to the abyss, an experience that was narrowly averted thanks to his master's swift intervention. Recognizing the overwhelming risks involved, Jiangli had voluntarily sealed the technique, only to reluctantly utilize it today against Director Shinguuji Kurono.

Toudou Touka, however, wasn't easily swayed. She supported her forehead with a hint of suspicion clouding her expression. "Your words are reassuring, but I can't help but doubt whether you truly understand the gravity of your actions."

Her skepticism was warranted. Had Jiangli fully comprehended the consequences, he wouldn't have deployed such a risky move against the new Director. Though their interactions had been brief, Toudou Touka understood his character well enough to sense the transformation he had undergone over the past year. She regretted not having been there to guide him, a realization that motivated her to instill a sense of responsibility within him.

"In short, now that you've gained admittance to Hagun Academy, consider yourself under my watchful eye. I won't tolerate reckless behavior or disregard for your own well-being. Understand me?" Her stern declaration was imbued with an authoritative aura.

With a composed demeanor, Toudou Touka rose to her feet, asserting her authority. "Tonight, rest here in the medical office. I'll see you tomorrow. I've left your suitcase here, and this is your student handbook. I've taken the liberty to complete your application in advance. If you're feeling unwell, use the handbook to contact me."

From her uniform pocket, she produced a sleek, palm-sized device. It bore the prestigious emblem of Hagun Academy. Upon activation, it functioned much like a smartphone, enabling calls, messages, and even online activity. This was the coveted student handbook, a tool that would facilitate his communication and navigation within the academy.

"Finished with dinner?" Like an attentive servant, Toudou Touka directed her gaze toward the tray before Jiangli.

"Done," he affirmed, the tray now emptied.

"Satisfied?" she inquired.

"Most likely around 80%," he replied.

"Good. Remember, you needn't stuff yourself during dinner."

As she reached out to retrieve the tray from his grasp, her gaze inadvertently landed near his lips. Reacting swiftly, she retrieved a handkerchief from her pocket and, with great care, leaned closer to him. Bit by bit, she expertly wiped away any traces of grease from the corners of his mouth.

Jiangli attempted to express his gratitude, but Senior Sister silenced him with a mere glance. The room was now bathed in the soft light of the night, stars twinkling outside. It was a serene scene, amplifying the intimacy of the moment shared between the two.

Amid the tranquil ambiance, their breaths seemed to synchronize, their proximity rendering their connection palpable. Toudou Touka, with her eyeglasses and gentle demeanor, exuded an air of compassion akin to that of a caring older sister.

Jiangli's gaze lowered, avoiding direct eye contact. His silence spoke volumes, allowing the unspoken emotions between them to linger in the air. As Senior Sister withdrew, Jiangli's heart remained captive to the fleeting moment they had shared.

Alone once more in the medical office, Jiangli let out a heavy sigh as he reclined against the headboard. "Young girls these days mature so quickly," he mused, his thoughts drifting to Senior Sister's actions.

A year prior, he had measured his physique personally, confirming its frailty. He sighed once again, reminiscing about his own limitations. His thoughts shifted to the starlit sky outside the window, a canvas painted with cosmic wonders that ignited his contemplative spirit.

Senior Sister's constant presence echoed in his mind. Their journey had begun with her genuine care during his most vulnerable moments. Whether it was helping him eat, drink, or even manage basic bodily functions, she had been an unwavering pillar of support.

Though their meetings were limited to brief encounters each year, Senior Sister's maternal demeanor left an indelible mark on Jiangli's heart. Her warmth was a stark contrast to his previous solitary existence, evoking the tender embrace of a mother's love.

Jiangli's musings carried him deeper into the night, his thoughts entwining with memories of their time together. He marveled at the steadfast bond they had formed, nurtured by her nurturing spirit and his unyielding determination.

In the midst of his contemplation, he pondered the intricacies of his unusual crossing over. The crude computer page, the character template, and the balance of attributes—the sum of these parts had thrust him into an extraordinary existence.

A soft sigh escaped his lips as he gazed at the starlit sky. His attributes, once chosen on a whim, now defined his very being. A subtle shift in his choices could have yielded a vastly different fate. He had embraced the role of an adventurer in this new world, guided by the allure of novelty and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.

As the night deepened, his thoughts danced on the precipice between past and present. He contemplated the fragility of life, the unwavering spirit of his mentor, and the nurturing presence of Senior Sister. Amid the silence, he grappled with the weight of his circumstances, wondering if his unique heritage had indeed shaped the course of his journey.

And so, as the starlight continued to cast its gentle glow, Jiangli's introspection carried him through the night, navigating the intricate maze of his memories, choices, and the boundless potential that lay ahead.