The morning sun cast a warm glow as I made my way to Star Martial Arts Dojo. Today was the day I would officially begin my training. As I approached the massive structure, I couldn't help but marvel at its sheer size. The photos on the website didn't do it justice—seeing it in person was something else entirely.
Upon entering, I noticed the reception area was manned by a few receptionists, all wearing bright orange uniforms. Why orange? I thought to myself. It reminded me of those protagonists in novels who always wore the same color.
I walked up to the counter and mentioned my appointment. The receptionist quickly checked the system and informed me, "It'll take about ten minutes for the dojo master to meet you. In the meantime, you can wait in the lobby and order any drink you like."
Taking a seat, I glanced around the lobby. The walls were covered with framed pictures showcasing the dojo's victories in various competitions. I had never paid attention to martial arts tournaments before, so I didn't recognize any of them.
Why would I? I mused. I never thought I'd end up learning martial arts myself.
Just as I was lost in thought, a deep voice snapped me back to reality.
"Are you Adam?"
I looked up to see a tall, well-built man standing before me. His presence alone exuded authority and strength.
"Yes, that's me," I replied.
He extended his hand. "I'm one of the dojo masters. I'll be handling your induction today."
We walked through the corridor as he started asking about my reason for joining. This time, I didn't make up an excuse. "I want to learn how to control my power output," I said honestly.
He nodded in understanding. "That's a good reason. Here at Star Martial Arts Dojo, we have a structured training system. Newcomers start as dojo apprentices, but if you pass the assessment, you can advance to a senior apprentice level, where you'll gain access to more training facilities and techniques."
We soon arrived at a vast training hall, where dozens of apprentices were practicing their moves. Some were engaged in intense sparring, while others were perfecting their punches and kicks. I noticed that while most of them fought like amateurs, a few stood out—they executed their moves with precision and skill.
The dojo master handed me a book. "This is our personal martial arts manual, created by the dojo's founder. Study it well."
Taking the book, I flipped through its pages. The moment I started reading, something strange happened—I absorbed the information almost instantly.
My memory has improved so much… this must be because of my spirituality.
With that realization, I decided to take my training seriously. I needed to refine my control before my power grew beyond my ability to handle.
I focused inward and carefully invoked 10% of my Elephant DNA. I had the ability to control how much DNA I activated, but I knew that once I crossed 30%, it would become my base power—permanently altering my body. Right now, I could only afford to use 10% and exert just 5% of it.
I started practicing my punches and kicks. At first, my form was sloppy, but as I continued, I improved rapidly. By the end of 50 minutes, I had nearly perfected my technique.
Breathing heavily, I prepared to meditate to recover my lost spiritual energy. This was my plan—I would repeat this cycle 5 to 6 times a day.
Once my meditation was done, I decided to test my strength. In the corner of the training hall, there was a punching machine. I walked over to it, making sure I was far from the other apprentices, and threw a full-power punch.
5000
The number blinked on the machine.
I don't know what this number means, but my goal is to exert only 2500 using just 5% of my power.
I took a deep breath and started again, this time trying to restrain my strength.
4980… 4930… 4700…
No matter how much I tried, I couldn't bring it below 4500. Frustrated, I kept going.
4300
It was improving, but it would take time.
By the end of my training, I was completely exhausted. Unlike when my power was activated, my stamina in my normal state was still weak. I hailed a cab home instead of taking the bus, reminding myself, I'm rich now. Might as well travel in comfort.
After reaching home, I ordered some food—hamburgers and chicken. Normally, I wouldn't eat junk food, but today, I felt like treating myself.
As I waited for my food, I recalled all the amazing things that had happened to me in the past few days. First, I unlocked my spirituality. Then, I achieved a breakthrough in my DNA and gained the power of an elephant. After that, I killed two people—or werewolves—and then encountered that vampire. And now, here I am, trying to control my power.
I have a long way to go, but at least I've taken the first step.
Vampires, werewolves, martial arts… This world is far more interesting than I ever imagined.