Percy slowly opened his eyes, his vision blurred for a moment before the room came into focus. He found himself lying in an unfamiliar bed, surrounded by walls he didn't recognize. Confusion washed over him as he tried to piece together where he was. As he attempted to sit up, a searing pain shot through his ribs, causing him to grimace and clutch his torso.
Gently removing the sheets, Percy examined the tightly wrapped bandages that encased his injured ribs. He couldn't help but wonder who had brought him to this place of safety after his fierce battle with Eve. A faint memory flickered in his mind—the concerned face of the merchant he had saved. Could it have been him who brought Percy here? The details remained hazy, but he couldn't deny the possibility.
The realization hit Percy that if he wanted to survive in this world filled with powerful creatures, he needed to step up his game. Compared to the monsters he had encountered in his own world, aside from a few exceptions like the Hydra, the Chimera and deities, the creatures here definitely surpassed them in strength. Even the fearsome Minotaur paled in comparison to Eve's power.
Reflecting on the fight with Eve, Percy knew he needed to improve his speed. He had been too slow to avoid her initial strikes, putting himself at a disadvantage. Furthermore, he resolved to enhance his control over the controlled breathing technique. Although he could maintain it for several minutes during training sessions with Mr. Urokodaki and Tanjiro, in a life-or-death battle he struggled to hold it together for even a single minute.
Lost in his thoughts, Percy was abruptly interrupted as the door of the room swung open, revealing a man standing in the doorway.
The man who entered the room had a serene and comforting presence. His face displayed the wisdom of experience, with weathered lines etched across his forehead and around his eyes. His silver-streaked hair cascaded down to his shoulders, framing a countenance that exuded a sense of calm and reassurance.
His eyes, a shade of deep blue, sparkled with a kindness that seemed to pierce through the shadows of Percy's pain. The man's frame was lean, yet there was a grace to his movements that hinted at some agility. He wore simple robes in earthy tones, which draped loosely around his form, accentuating his gentle aura.
With a gentle smile, the man spoke in a soothing tone, his voice carrying the weight of experience and compassion. "It seems you are finally awake," he said, his words a balm to Percy's weary soul. "You are safe here."
Percy's brows furrowed in confusion and concern as he listened to the man's words. "What happened? How did I get here?" he managed to ask, his voice strained and weak.
The man paused for a moment, his eyes filled with empathy. "You were gravely injured, my young friend," he replied gently. "Merchant Kaito found you passed out and bleeding heavily on the streets, though he did not give any more details. He brought you to me, seeking my aid in your recovery. I am a well known healer within this town and have been taking care of you for the past couple of days. My name is Hiroshi."
Percy nodded, his mind trying to piece together the fragments of his memory. Two days had passed, and he had been unconscious all this time. The gravity of his injuries began to sink in as he attempted to take a deep breath, only to be met with excruciating pain and a fit of coughing.
Master Hiroshi placed a calming hand on Percy's shoulder. "Easy now," he cautioned. "Your body has endured significant trauma. You have four broken ribs, and one of them punctured your right lung. If it weren't for Kaito's swift actions, your condition would have been dire. You might've died."
Percy's eyes widened, a mixture of gratitude and astonishment washing over him. "I owe him my life," he managed to utter, his voice filled with genuine appreciation
Master Hiroshi nodded, his eyes reflecting the weight of his words. "Indeed, you do. But you also possess a strong will to survive, young man. Now, it is my task to aid in your recovery and guide you towards regaining your strength."
Percy's gaze met Master Hiroshi's, a newfound determination shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Master Hiroshi," he said earnestly. "I won't let this setback defeat me. Also, please call me Percy."
A warm smile touched Master Hiroshi's lips. "That is the spirit, Percy. Rest now, for healing takes time. When you are ready, I will run a few exams on you."
Percy's time at Master Hiroshi's house was brief. When Hiroshi brought him a glass of water, Percy seized the opportunity. Waiting until he was alone, he poured the cool liquid over his bandaged wounds. As he expected, he felt an immediate and profound effect. The water healed him, seeping into his injuries and accelerating their mending process. The internal pain began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of vitality.
When Hiroshi saw Percy's quick recovery, he was at a loss for words. He couldn't comprehend how his young patient's grave wounds healed completely within a span of days. Yet, even though the healer's mind was filled with questions, he respected Percy's privacy and refrained from prying further.
With his injuries now fully healed, Percy only needed to spend one more day under Hiroshi's watchful eye "just to be sure," as the wise healer had advised. The day of his departure arrived, and Percy found himself filled with gratitude and admiration for Hiroshi's selflessness and kindness.
Before he left, Percy approached Hiroshi, his voice filled with gratitude. "Master Hiroshi, how much do I owe you for your help?" he inquired, his hand reaching for his coin pouch.
Hiroshi's eyes twinkled with a gentle warmth as he waved off the notion of payment. "No, my young friend," he replied with a serene smile. "I am already paid by the government each month to take care of the sick. It was my pleasure to assist you on your path to recovery. Your determination and resilience inspire me. Consider this my humble contribution to your journey."
Percy's heart swelled with gratitude for the healer's generosity and the kindness he had encountered in this foreign world. As he bid farewell to Hiroshi, he marveled at the remarkable individuals who crossed his path, their compassion and benevolence shining among the dark creatures lurking around them.
As Percy ventured into the forest, a sense of tranquility enveloped him. The lush foliage created a captivating tapestry of vibrant greens, with rays of sunlight filtering through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. Towering trees stood tall and proud, their trunks adorned with moss and vines that seemed to breathe life into the ancient woods.
In this serene and secluded realm, Percy found his training ground. The trees became his targets, their trunks standing as stoic adversaries. With great focus, he directed his attention inward, harnessing the power of his breath to fuel his body.
"Okay. I couldn't match Eve's speed until it was almost too late. I have to be faster so I can avoid getting wounded like that again. Focus. Breathe. Strengthen your body. Empower your muscles."
Inhaling deeply, Percy controlled the flow of oxygen, channeling its vitality into his limbs. He could feel the surge of energy coursing through his veins, strengthening his muscles, and heightening his senses. The world around him seemed to slow as his concentration sharpened.
With a burst of speed, he dashed forward, his blade a blur of motion. Each swing was calculated and precise, cleaving through the air with a resounding swish as it connected with the tree trunks. The sound of impact echoed through the forest, harmonizing with Percy's rhythmic breathing.
As he stopped with a minor pant, he looked back to see his work. Dozens of trunks were now holding Riptide's slashes. Percy looked to each of them, mentally counting how many strikes he managed to deal.
"Twenty two," he thought. "I guess it's not bad. But there is still a lot of room to improve. I'll keep doing it until I can't handle it anymore."
He pushed himself, repeating the exercise again and again, his determination unwavering. Sweat beaded on his brow as his panting grew slightly more pronounced, a testament to his relentless pursuit of improvement. Percy knew that his stamina needed refinement, that he must prolong this heightened state of performance.
Again and again, he charged forward, slashing through the trees with precise strikes. His muscles strained, his body pushed to its limits, yet he persisted. Only when his exhausted form could no longer stand, his body succumbing to fatigue, did he relinquish his relentless assault.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest, Percy found solace in the silence. He lay on the ground, his breath gradually slowing, gazing upwards at the majestic moon that hung like a radiant orb in the night sky. Fatigue claimed him, lulling him into a deep sleep, his body and mind finding respite in the realm of dreams. Under the watchful gaze of the moon, Percy fell asleep.
As Percy's eyes fluttered open, the hunger pangs in his stomach reminded him of his physical needs. Rising from his slumber, he scanned the forest surroundings, his gaze falling upon a cluster of fruit-bearing trees. With renewed vigor, he set out to satisfy his appetite, plucking ripe fruits from their branches and savoring their sweet, refreshing flavors. Nature's nourishment revitalized his energy, preparing him for the day ahead.
Having replenished his strength, Percy refocused his attention on his training objectives. The thought of endurance resonated in his mind, driving him to push his physical limits further. He traversed the forest, his footsteps purposeful as he sought out any resource that could aid his training.
After a few minutes of exploration, his eyes alighted upon a collection of fallen tree branches, their gnarled forms intertwined. A spark of inspiration ignited within him as he realized their potential. Gathering the branches, he secured them within his backpack, feeling the weight press against his shoulders. A grunt escaped his lips as he adjusted to the added burden, fully aware of the challenge he had willingly embraced.
Percy knew that this unconventional training approach would test his endurance, his speed and his strength. With each deliberate step, he could feel the weight of the trunks in his backpack, demanding more from his leg muscles and taxing his every movement. Yet, he welcomed this discomfort, recognizing it as an opportunity to surpass his limitations.
Engaging his legs in a series of squats, Percy embraced the burn that intensified with each repetition. He could sense the strain in his muscles, the laborious effort required to push against the resistance of the weighted trunks. Every movement became an exercise in determination, a testament to his unwavering commitment.
As he transitioned into running, the forest floor beneath him seemed to blur as his legs propelled him forward. Each stride carried the weight of his training, his body adapting to the arduous task at hand. Every breath came harder, every heartbeat echoing his determination.
In the midst of physical strain, moments of doubt would occasionally surface, threatening to undermine his progress. But Percy refused to succumb. In those vulnerable moments, he summoned the memory of Emi, the friend he couldn't save in time. The memory fueled his determination of how he was powerless to stop the Oni from slicing her throat, reminding him of the urgency to become faster, stronger, and more capable. He channeled his guilt and remorse into a renewed sense of purpose, vowing to improve himself so that he could protect others.
With each stride, each squat, and each breath, Percy pushed himself beyond his limits. The weight of the trunks in his backpack served as a constant reminder of the trials he faced, yet he persevered. Through the pain and fatigue, he found solace in the knowledge that his efforts would yield rewards, that his dedication would manifest in enhanced speed and agility.
As the sun's rays filtered through the forest canopy, casting dappled patterns on the ground, Percy's endurance training continued. With each passing minute, he grew stronger, his determination unwavering. He knew that his journey was one of growth, of transformation, and with each exercise completed, he inched closer to the warrior he aspired to be.
As Percy continued his arduous training, the forest became his sanctuary, his arena for self-improvement. The surroundings took on a familiar rhythm, each tree standing as a testament to his progress. He began to observe the intricate details of the forest, noticing the patterns of the leaves, the texture of the bark, and the way sunlight filtered through the branches.
During breaks in his intense physical exercises, Percy would sit beneath a towering oak, closing his eyes and immersing himself in the sounds of nature. He listened intently to the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle flow of a nearby stream. These moments of tranquility offered him a brief respite from the physical strain, allowing his mind to find balance amidst the chaos.
In these tranquil interludes, Percy engaged in mental exercises, sharpening his focus and honing his concentration. With closed eyes, he visualized his movements, replaying the precise strikes and evasive maneuvers he had learned from his battles. In his mind's eye, he saw himself moving with grace and efficiency, his body an extension of his will.
As he delved deeper into his training, Percy discovered new techniques to complement his combat prowess. He experimented with footwork, practicing swift turns, pivots, and lunges. Each movement was executed with meticulous precision and the usage of concentrated breathing, his body becoming an instrument of fluidity and agility.
Aware that a true warrior must adapt to any circumstance, Percy introduced elements of unpredictability into his training regimen. He sought out uneven terrains, challenging his balance and forcing his muscles to adjust to shifting landscapes. He would leap over fallen logs, duck beneath low-hanging branches, and navigate treacherous paths.
Day after day, Percy immersed himself in his rigorous training regimen, refusing to rest on his laurels. He intercalated his breathing exercises with endurance, strength, and agility training, never removing the weight-laden backpack that had become his constant companion. Each morning, as the sun painted the sky with hues of gold, he would venture deep into the forest, ready to push his limits further.
Percy continued his routine for over a week, gradually increasing the number of logs he carried in his backpack as his body grew accustomed to the weights. He pushed through the fatigue and discomfort, his mind locked onto his goal of surpassing his own limitations. Every step, every strike, and every breath became a testament to his unyielding spirit.
And now, standing in the very clearing where he began his training and with Riptide held tightly in his hands and his backpack laying forgotten on the ground, Percy felt a surge of anticipation course through his veins. It was time to see for himself the results of his training. The air was thick with anticipation, and the energy of the forest seemed to echo his own excitement. He closed his eyes, shutting out the world around him, and delved into the depths of his being.
In that moment, time stood still as Percy focused his thoughts, his breathing becoming a steady rhythm that synchronized with the beat of his heart. With each inhale, he drew in the essence of the forest, the vitality of nature fueling his every cell. With each exhale, he released tension and doubt, allowing the oxygen to flow trough his blood and his body to become a vessel of strength and precision.
As he opened his eyes, clarity washed over him. His senses sharpened, and the world seemed to slow down. Gripping his blade tightly, he stepped forward, moving with a fluidity that mirrored the dance of the surrounding trees. He internally marveled at how quickly he was moving without the extra weight. His strikes were precise, each movement a testament to his unwavering focus and unwavering commitment to his training.
The sound of his blade meeting the trunks reverberated through the clearing, filling the air with a symphony of clashes. Percy's strikes were swift and calculated, his movements flowing seamlessly from one to another. No longer did he pant or feel the strain of his exertion. Instead, he moved with a grace that belied his earlier limitations.
Strike after strike, Percy unleashed his newfound power upon the trees, leaving behind a trail of deep slashes in their trunks. With each successful strike, his heart swelled with pride, knowing that he had surpassed his previous limits. When he counted the slashes, he couldn't help but laugh out loud, the joy and accomplishment bubbling up from deep within.
"Fifty four strikes? And I'm not even feeling the strain yet! It seems my training really paid off. Oh, I can just imagine how fast I'll be if there's a source of water nearby," he said to himself in pure joy.
But his laughter was interrupted by a familiar voice that cut through the forest's tranquility. "South South East! South South East! The next location is South South East!" Percy's gaze turned towards the sound, and there, perched on a nearby tree branch, was Nyx, his faithful Karasu crow.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a smile still lingering on his face, Percy acknowledged the crow's call. It was time for his next mission. With a quick nod, he prepared himself for the journey ahead, knowing that each mission would test his skills, his resolve, and his unwavering spirit.
Leaving the trunks that were such a good help to his training behind, Percy embarked on the path that awaited him, ready to face whatever challenges lay in store. The forest stood as his witness, the trees whispering their support as he ventured forth, a warrior reborn in the crucible of his own determination.