Bai Yu finally reached the familiar stone building of the Repository. Elder Wan was near the entrance, organizing some scrolls. He looked up as Bai Yu approached, a flicker of surprise in his eyes at the young master's quick return.
"Greetings again, Young Master Bai," Elder Wan said respectfully, noting the determined look on Bai Yu's face. "What do you need this time?"
Bai Yu showed proper respect with a slight bow. "Elder Wan, my father suggested it is time I choose a weapon to train with. I wish to see the clan's collection."
Elder Wan's eyes widened slightly in understanding. Given the Young Master's recent, astonishing transformation, focusing on weapon training made perfect sense. He nodded. "Of course, Young Master. Please follow me."
Elder Wan guided him through the familiar halls, deeper into the Repository than before, towards a large, reinforced room. Inside, countless weapons were displayed on racks and stands, gleaming under the light of illumination stones. The air hummed faintly with the residual energies of the metals and the intent imbued within them over years of potential use.
Bai Yu saw many different types of weapons: sharp axes radiating raw power, elegant longswords promising precision, piercing spears designed for reach, heavy hammers built for crushing force, gracefully curved sabers, sturdy staves, and even coiled whips resting on velvet cushions. It was a true arsenal, representing generations of Bai Clan martial history.
Elder Wan explained briefly, "As with techniques, weapons are also categorized by grade: Mortal Grade, Spirit Grade, Earth Grade, Heaven Grade, and the Emperor Grade Weapons. The materials, craftsmanship, and any innate enchantments determine the grade." He gestured towards a large section of well-maintained but plainer-looking weapons. "Martial artists of the Qi Refining Realm usually start with a Mortal Grade weapon. They are durable enough for Qi infusion at this level and allow one to master the fundamentals before seeking higher-grade armaments."
Bai Yu nodded, taking in the vast selection. He approached the racks containing Mortal Grade weapons. He first picked up a straight sword. It felt balanced, but as he slashed lightly through the air, the movements felt… adequate, but not inspiring. He then picked up a spear, appreciating its reach as he thrust it forward a few times, but the linear style felt somewhat restrictive after practicing the fluid Azure Cloud Steps. He also tried hefting a battle axe, but its weight and emphasis on brute force didn't seem to suit his style.
He continued browsing, letting his instincts guide him. Finally, his hand closed around the hilt of a saber. It was a simple, sturdy Mortal Grade weapon, but the curved, single-edged blade felt surprisingly natural in his grip. As he swung it in a few experimental arcs, the weight distribution, the way it flowed through the air – it instantly felt good, almost like an extension of his own arm. There was an inherent aggression, a blend of power and flow, that resonated with him.
"I quite like this one," Bai Yu said, a satisfied smile touching his lips as he examined the saber's edge.
Elder Wan, who had been watching patiently, nodded in approval. "An excellent choice, Young Master Bai. The saber is a versatile weapon, favored for its strength and explosive power in close quarters. It rewards decisive movements. I think you should choose it. Our Repository has some quite good saber arts, developed over generations by skilled Bai Clan ancestors."
"Then I will take this saber," Bai Yu confirmed, feeling confident in his decision. "How much does it cost?" He mentally checked his remaining funds after the pill purchase, hoping he had enough.
Elder Wan smiled warmly. "No need to worry about the cost, Young Master. Your father, the Patriarch, already informed me after his visit earlier today. He said he would cover the expense of your first chosen weapon as encouragement for your training."
Bai Yu felt a surge of happiness and gratitude. His father's support meant a great deal. "That's wonderful news! Please thank the Patriarch for me when you see him, Elder."
With his new saber in hand Bai Yu directly turned towards the Battle Skills Repository section he had visited earlier. His next step was clear: he needed to search for a suitable saber art to begin his weapon training in earnest.