After a brief exchange, they resumed their sparring.
"Alright, kid, show me what you've learned," Master Chang said, a playful glint in his eyes.
"With pleasure," Tatsuo replied, drawing his sword.
They clashed, the sound of steel ringing through the training field. Master Chang was consistently astonished by Tatsuo's rapid improvement, a mixture of awe and paternal pride swelling within him. He felt a deep satisfaction in guiding the empire's future heir.
Three days into their rigorous training, Master Chang approached Tatsuo, his expression thoughtful.
"Tatsuo," he began, his voice filled with genuine wonder, "you are truly exceptional. I can't fathom why others labeled you 'useless.' Perhaps they simply lacked the insight to recognize your potential. I am deeply grateful the Emperor entrusted me with your tutelage. Do not disappoint me, my boy!"
"Thank you, Master, for believing in me," Tatsuo replied, a thoughtful expression softening his features. "But please, I ask that you keep my progress confidential. I wish to surprise everyone with my achievements in the future."
A mischievous smile danced on his lips. "Master, I wish to offer you a gift."
"Tatsuo, it's far too early for gifts," Master Chang said, waving a dismissive hand. "Keep it for now. Present it to me when you've mastered everything I have to impart."
"Hahaha, but I merely wish to bestow a title..." Tatsuo began, only to be interrupted.
"Master," Tatsuo said, his voice firm yet respectful, "please, allow me to finish. It is impolite to interrupt a prince. I trust you understand." Master Chang nodded, his expression apologetic.
"Master, I wish to bestow upon you the title of 'Adviser of the Prince.' Will you accept this honor, Chang Hui?" Tatsuo asked, his tone sincere.
Master Chang knelt, bowing his head deeply. "Prince Ryujin Tatsuo, I, Chang Hui, humbly accept the title you have bestowed upon me. I vow to serve you faithfully and never falter in my duty." As he spoke, a surge of raw power coursed through him, propelling him to the late stage of the Sky Gate Realm.
"Do you like my gift?" Tatsuo asked, a playful glint in his eyes.
Master Chang looked up, his expression a mixture of bewilderment and awe. "How…?" he whispered, his voice trembling.
Tatsuo chuckled. "Hahaha, it is my gift, I have a gift to enhance others! Do not ask why; it is difficult to explain." He turned and strode back towards his chambers.
Ding! Master, congratulations! You have acquired your first subordinate. You can now view their stats. And Master, you can level up at any time. Simply give the command. You can level up now. The Adviser's voice echoed in Tatsuo's mind.
Tatsuo paused, considering the option. "Level up," he commanded.
Instantly, a wave of disorientation washed over him, and he collapsed, unconscious. An hour later, he awoke, feeling refreshed and invigorated. Ding! Leveling complete. You may now view your updated stats, Master.
Tatsuo summoned his stats screen.
[Stats Screen]
Name: Ryujin Tatsuo
Title: 1st Prince of the Flame Empire
Level: Clashing Light Realm, 3rd Level
Fame: 0.5
Subordinates: 1
Special Skills:
The Adviser: That's me!Absorbability: Allows you to devour, copy, and learn any skill or knowledge.Frontier: An invisible protective shield.Naming: Grants the ability to name individuals, bestowing titles and strengthening them as subordinates. (Warning: Use with extreme caution.)
Magic Skills: Fusion Fire
Attack Skills: Middle Rank Sword Style
Abilities: Observance Eye
Tatsuo nodded, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. "These new skills are excellent! I'm glad I have you, Adviser." He suddenly remembered he hadn't checked Master Chang's stats. "System, display Chang Hui's stats."
[Stats Screen]
Name: Chang Hui
Title: Adviser of the Prince
Military Rank: High Marshal of the Imperial Army
Level: Clashing Light Realm, 3rd Level
Fame: 500
Command: 47,000 men
Special Skills:
Flame Dragon Overkill: A sword technique delivering 100x flaming slashes.Flame Dance: A sword technique that generates flames during combat. Magic Skills: None Attack Skills: High Rank Flame Sword Style, High Rank Sniper Abilities: High Level Fire Resistance Weapon: Dracoignis
"This man is truly formidable," Tatsuo mused. "I am certainly not disappointed in my gift. Hahahaha."