17 A Picnic on the Roof (2/2)
She set out the cloth and sat down with her back against the brick wall, legs stretched out in front of her. Yu Chang nearly choked at the way she seemed to disregard the fact that she was wearing an elegant dress. Patting the spot next to her she asked in a serious tone, ”what have you learned so far? Have you been studying combat or other cultivation paths?”
”I've mostly been studying combat. I've looked into several different styles of martial arts. The two I've practiced most frequently are tae-kwon-do and capoeira. I was about to start studying tai chi.”
”Hmm, interesting combination. One is very direct, while the other is very fluid and constantly changing. I haven't met many combat cultivators who know capoeira, let alone that study other styles along with it. As far as tai chi goes, don't bother learning the forms for now, just study the theories. I'll teach you the forms later. Have you learned any meditative practices? How about weapon training?”
”As far as meditation, I've been focusing on basic meditation, but no matter how long I meditate, I don't feel any changes. I haven't looked into weapon training at all, practice weapons alone cost more than my budget could support.”
”I see.” Falling Star looked thoughtful as she processed the information Yu Chang gave her. ”For now, just brush up on what you already know and study the theories behind tai chi. During my first class session on Monday, I'll evaluate your current skill level as part of a demonstration for the other students. Don't meditate anymore, I'll show you how to do active meditation next week. Once we get you settled into a routine, I'll pick out some practice weapons for you as well. Now quickly eat eat!”
Yu Chang sighed and opened the lunchbox. Instantly steam rose from the box unexpectedly. He never expected this to be one of the special stasis moderating boxes that preserved the state of food to maintain perfect freshness and proper serving temperature. Only the most wealthy cultivators could afford this type of technology. The lunch Falling Star had made was surprisingly a western style meal with salisbury steak, gravy, rice, and corn. The smell alone was enough to make his mouth water. Most of the lunch period was spent quietly savoring the magnificent lunch he had been given. After several minutes in silence, Yu Chang stared at the empty lunch box and regretfully put his chopsticks down.
”Master, that was really amazing, how are you so good at everything you do?”
”Cooking isn't that hard. Besides, I'm not good at everything, my refining skills are atrocious.”
”Eh? Even though your father is called the God of Refining, you can't refine?”
”Unfortunately, that's how it goes. I actually wanted to be a refiner like my father when I was young, but I have no talent for it. If you have an aptitude for it, I'll see if father will give you some pointers. However, first, we got to settle your initial problem of no spiritual energy. Once we solve that we'll be able to figure out what your best suited for. However, you should hurry back to class now, lunch period is almost over. I'll pick you up once classes end so be ready.”
”Right, I'll head back first then, thank you for lunch master.”
Yu Chang got up and headed back towards the classroom while Falling Star watched him from where she was sitting. ”Capoeira eh? You're just full of surprises Little Yu, I can't wait to start your training!” If Yu Chang had seen her face at this moment, he would be seriously worried about his life choices.