Learning

The classroom buzzed with the excitement of newcomers and the easy chatter of a break between lessons. Liu Hao, Renji, Rukia and the new classmates around them chatted casually, sharing their impressions of their new surroundings and speculating about the courses ahead. A faint scent of ink and new fabric hung in the air.

Just then, the classroom door opened silently, and a tall, upright figure entered. The man looked to be around thirty, with a lean face and eyes as sharp as a hawk's. He wore a standard Shinigami uniform beneath a haori with a dark blue sash marking him as a teacher. He walked steadily to the lectern and calmly surveyed the boys and girls, who had fallen silent the moment he entered.

"All right, that's enough chatting." His voice was not loud, but it carried with unmistakable clarity, instantly cutting through every last murmur. "Class begins now."

"My name is Nakamura Sōya, and I am the homeroom teacher for your elite preparatory class. Over the next few years, I will be responsible for your basic theory, introductory Kidō and general instruction." Nakamura Sōya's introduction was concise and straightforward. "Now, do you have any questions about the academy's arrangements or the courses themselves?"

The classroom was silent. Those who had made it into this class were either exceptionally gifted or mature beyond their years. Faced with unfamiliar surroundings and a teacher with such a stern demeanor, they all chose to wait and see.

Nakamura Sōya seemed to have expected this and paid it no mind. "Since there are no questions, we will begin with the core material of your first theory lesson."

He turned and used Reishi to write two bold characters on the blackboard: Reiatsu.

"All Shinigami combat skills, whether Zanjutsu, Hakuda, footwork or Kidō, ultimately depend on it for their foundation and power: Reiatsu." Nakamura Sōya's voice grew solemn. "Reiatsu is, at its core, the outward manifestation of a soul's density and strength. It is the cornerstone of the Shinigami power system. It is both the medium through which we perceive the world and manipulate Reishi, and the most fundamental measure of an individual's strength."

He paused to let the concept sink in. "Based on extensive research and statistical data gathered over many years by the Seireitei Technical Development Bureau, and taking into account multiple factors such as Reishi density, energy field strength and the ability to interfere with reality, we divide Shinigami Reiatsu strength into approximately twenty theoretical levels."

As he spoke, a screen of light formed from Reishi appeared beside the blackboard, displaying a clear pyramid structure:

Levels 20 through 6: The range usually occupied by ordinary Shinigami. Their Reiatsu is strong enough to support basic combat, the use of Kidō and the maintenance of a Zanpakuto's Shikai, if they possess one.

Levels 5 through 4: Lieutenant level. The quality and quantity of Reiatsu undergo a leap, allowing for finer control over vast amounts of energy and supporting lieutenant-level combat and Kidō.

Level 3 and above: Captain level. Reiatsu reaches an astounding degree of strength, and its very presence can exert pressure on the environment and weaker souls. It is the mark of the Gotei 13's strongest combatants.

"Note," Nakamura Sōya emphasized, "that these are only theoretical classifications and general rules. Soul Society has a long history and has produced countless geniuses, so there are always exceptions. Some exceptionally gifted members may possess Reiatsu approaching or even reaching lieutenant level. Likewise, history has seen people whose Reiatsu did not meet the required level, yet who were capable of serving as lieutenants or even captains through extraordinary skill, special abilities or the properties of their Zanpakuto. Levels are a reference, not an absolute constraint."

His gaze swept over the class, lingering briefly on Liu Hao, Renji, Rukia and a few other students whose auras were noticeably different from those of ordinary people. "To have been selected for the elite class, your basic Reiatsu level must have reached at least level 10 on the entrance assessment. This is your starting point, and it is also what the academy expects of you."

"So, how do you raise your Reiatsu?" Nakamura Sōya posed the crucial question. "Traditionally, there are two main approaches that complement each other."

"First, Soul Body Training. Through intensive physical, or rather spiritual, training in swordsmanship, hand-to-hand combat, running and the like, you continually push past your limits. In the process of damage and recovery, you force your soul body to actively absorb and assimilate more Reishi, increasing its overall density and strength. This is the most widely practiced and effective path, and it has been proven by countless Shinigami. Most of your practical combat courses in the future will serve this purpose."

"Second, Reishi Breathing." Nakamura Sōya's tone shifted subtly as he reached this subject. "This method is more focused on 'internal cultivation.' Through deep meditation, you adjust your breathing until it matches the frequency of your Reishi fluctuations, consciously drawing Reishi from the environment to directly strengthen the source of your soul. In theory, if successful, this method can work wonders for the purity and control of your Reiatsu."

The eyes of many students, Renji included, brightened slightly. They were clearly interested in this method, which sounded more "advanced."

Nakamura Sōya's next words, however, were like a splash of cold water. "But I must be honest with you: in the past century, there have been very few cases of anyone significantly increasing their Reiatsu through Reishi Breathing.

"The difficulty lies in the fact that every person's soul has a unique fluctuation. Finding the 'one correct' breathing rhythm and meditative state is like looking for a needle in the ocean, and it depends heavily on individual comprehension and chance. Even if you are fortunate enough to grasp the basics, its early efficiency is far below that of arduous but steady Soul Body Training.

"Therefore, in the modern Shinigami training system, it has gradually been relegated to an auxiliary theory or used for healing and calming the mind. Those who truly rely on it as their primary means of improvement are exceptionally rare."

"Teacher!" A bespectacled boy in the front row raised his hand. "How exactly do we try Reishi Breathing? There has to be some way to get started, right?"

Nakamura Sōya nodded. "A good question. A basic method does exist, but it is only 'basic.' Usually, you begin with the simplest seated meditation, clearing your mind of distracting thoughts and focusing on your breathing and the faint flow of Reishi within your body.

"Try to 'listen' to them and feel their natural rhythm. Then, extremely slowly and patiently, adjust your breathing until it gradually approaches that inner pulse. The entire process requires absolute patience, focus and... luck.

"There is no fixed routine, because everyone's 'correct rhythm' is different. The first floor of the academy library has a few scrolls on classical meditation that you can consult, but don't expect too much."

He checked the time. "That concludes the basic theory of Reiatsu. You may use the remaining time to ask questions."

The classroom came alive. Students raised their hands one after another, asking all sorts of questions: How were Reiatsu levels measured precisely? Were there differences in the classification of Reiatsu with different attributes, such as fire or ice? Were there special precautions for female Shinigami training their Reiatsu? What were the principles and dangers behind a Reiatsu rampage...?

Nakamura Sōya answered each question with rigor and patience, demonstrating the qualities of an excellent theory teacher. Liu Hao listened quietly. He showed nothing on the surface, but his thoughts were in turmoil.

Reishi Breathing... meditation to find a unique rhythm... directly strengthening the source of the soul... These phrases echoed repeatedly in his mind.

He recalled the feeling of instinctively trying to guide his spiritual power through the intense pain when his Reiatsu had run out of control. He also remembered his clumsy but effective introspection and control while Captain Unohana treated him.

That feeling seemed to have some subtle connection to the "internal cultivation" Teacher Nakamura had described. Perhaps what was an inefficient, largely useless method for others might instead be a shortcut worth exploring for someone like him, with his "abnormal" Reiatsu and unusual experience—the soul of a transmigrator? At the very least, it could supplement his intensive physical training.

The theory lesson ended while his thoughts were still racing. During the break, students gathered in twos and threes, excitedly discussing what they had just learned. They looked forward to their future training and talked at length about the mysterious "Reishi Breathing."

Before long, the classroom door was shoved open again. Rather than walking in, a figure practically barged through it.

The newcomer was tall and powerfully built, wearing a sleeveless Shinigami uniform that allowed him to move freely and exposed his muscular, bronze arms. A faint scar marked his face, his eyes were fierce, and his entire bearing radiated the toughness of a veteran of many battles.

The noisy classroom fell silent the instant he entered. Several students who had been catching up on sleep at their desks jolted upright, startled by his imposing presence.

"Quiet, brats!" His voice boomed like thunder through the classroom. "I'm Itō Shōta! I'm your Kendo instructor! Now get up, all of you, and follow me to the training ground! Anyone who dawdles gets double training today!" Without waiting to see the students' reactions, he turned and strode out of the classroom.

After a brief, deathly silence, the classroom erupted. Most of the students were still stunned, but Liu Hao had already called out, "Quick, follow him!" He pulled the still-dazed Renji up with one hand and signaled to Rukia, and the three were the first to rush out of the classroom. Seeing them go, the other students scrambled to their feet and surged noisily toward the door, like a frightened flock of sheep chasing the lead wolf.

Itō Shōta walked extremely fast, paying no attention to the chaos behind him. Liu Hao and his two companions barely managed to keep up, while the main group ran after them, panting and scattered. After passing through several corridors, they came to an immense open-air training ground. Hard gray-white flagstones covered the ground, and weapon racks stood around the edges, holding unsharpened Asauchi and a great many wooden swords. The air smelled of sweat and dust.

Itō Shōta stopped in the middle of the training ground and turned around. Arms folded, he watched the students straggle in, stumbling and swaying. He made no attempt to hide the disdain in his eyes.

"Hmph, what a rabble!" he sneered. "Line up! By height, ten to a row, facing me! Get into position!"

The students hurriedly began arranging themselves, shoving and searching for places, and for a while the scene was chaotic. A vein throbbed on Itō Shōta's forehead, and he suddenly roared, "Quiet! Can't you even form a line?! You're future Shinigami, not wandering souls at a marketplace! Keep dawdling, and everyone runs fifty laps around the training ground!"

The shout worked wonders. The formation quickly took shape, and although the lines were still a little crooked, they finally looked presentable.

Itō Shōta gave them a glance and nodded grudgingly. "Remember this place. From now on, you'll come here and line up on your own before every Kendo class. I was in a good mood today, so I came to the classroom to fetch you. There won't be a next time! Understood?!"

"Understood..." came the scattered replies.

"Haven't you eaten?! Louder! Did you understand?!" Itō Shōta bellowed.

"Understood!!!" This time, the response was unanimous and loud enough to make their eardrums ache.

"Good." Itō Shōta walked over to the weapon rack. "Now, first row, come forward and collect your wooden swords. Remember your positions and return to them quickly afterward. Everyone else, watch. This is how we'll do it from now on! If anyone crowds in like a mob again, don't blame me when I make him catch a wooden sword with his face!"

Under the threat of Itō Shōta's violence, the distribution proceeded in an orderly fashion. Before long, every student held a heavy oak sword.

"Grip them tight! Every one of you!" Itō Shōta picked up a wooden sword of his own and stood before the formation. "Today, we're not learning anything fancy. We're practicing only the basics: grip, stance and cuts! Every flashy sword technique comes from repeating these simplest movements! Now spread out and copy me!"

He planted his feet shoulder-width apart and lowered himself slightly, gripping the wooden sword firmly in both hands. He raised it above his right shoulder, the tip angled backward. His body was like a fully drawn bow, brimming with power ready to be unleashed. "This is called Jōdan-gamae! Watch closely! Keep your wrists steady. Your elbows must be neither too straight nor too bent. Straighten your waist and back, and lower your center of gravity! Keep your eyes on the enemy you're imagining!"

The students copied him, their movements awkward and crooked. Itō Shōta stepped down and prowled among them like a tiger surveying its territory, roughly correcting every mistake: kicking their legs to adjust their stances, smacking their wrists to correct their angles, and even tapping their waists and abdomens with his wooden sword to force them to tighten their cores.

"Why are you so limp?! You're holding a sword, not a fire poker!"

"Your knees! Lower them farther! Do you want an enemy to knock you over with one touch?!"

"Breathe! Don't hold your breath! If your breathing goes out of control in a fight, you're the one who dies!"

All morning, Itō Shōta's roars, the whistles of wooden swords cutting through the air and the students' increasingly heavy panting echoed across the training ground. Repeat, correct, repeat again. Merely holding the proper Jōdan-gamae stance left their arms aching and numb and their legs trembling. Then came the utterly monotonous cutting practice: raise the sword, strike down with all their strength, recover and raise it again. Every cut had to be delivered with full force and perfect form, without the slightest deviation.

Sweat soaked their new student uniforms and dripped onto the gray-white ground, forming dark spots. The air grew scorching, mixed with the heat rising from their young bodies. Their initial novelty and excitement had long since vanished, replaced by sheer physical exhaustion and a grueling test of will.

When the bell finally rang to signal the end of class, Itō Shōta called a halt. Almost the instant he finished speaking, more than half the students collapsed onto the ground. Some even sprawled flat on their backs, without the strength to move a finger. Their wooden swords slipped from their hands and fell beside them, but they were too weak to pick them up.

With his wooden sword over his shoulder, Itō Shōta coldly surveyed the group of "defeated soldiers." "Can't take any more already? Hmph, today was just an appetizer. Remember how this feels. You'll have to get used to it.

"These tedious basics temper more than just your swordsmanship. They temper your soul bodies too! Every recovery after you exhaust yourselves will make the foundation of your Reiatsu a little stronger! All right, get back and rest. Same time tomorrow, assemble at the training ground. Anyone who's late or whose form isn't up to standard gets double!"

With that, he left without another glance at the students, his wooden sword over his shoulder and his footsteps heavy.

Liu Hao ached all over too, especially in his arms and shoulders, which felt as though they had been taken apart and put back together. But he forced himself to remain standing. He bent down to pick up his wooden sword and walked over to Renji and Rukia, who were likewise panting and drenched in sweat.

"Let's go back," he said, his voice somewhat hoarse.

Renji shook his head, his red hair plastered to his forehead with sweat, but a defiant fire flickered in his eyes. "I... I want to practice a little longer. It feels... it doesn't feel like enough!"

Rukia wiped the sweat from her face, breathing a little heavily. "I want to go back and rest first, and while I'm at it... meet my new roommate." She looked at Liu Hao, apparently waiting for him to decide.

Liu Hao frowned and turned to Renji. "Renji, listen to me. That's enough for today."

"Why?" Renji asked, puzzled. "I think I can keep going! Didn't Teacher Itō say we have to push past our limits?"

"Pushing past your limits isn't the same as blindly overexerting yourself," Liu Hao explained patiently, though he was exhausted himself. "Back in Rukongai, life was hard, but we never underwent such systematic, intensive professional training aimed at our soul bodies.

"Our bodies—or rather, our soul bodies—need time to adjust. Suddenly pushing ourselves too hard could easily leave hidden injuries or throw our Reiatsu into disorder, holding back our progress instead. Cultivation requires a balance between work and rest, and gradual progress. Today's basic training was intense enough. What we need is to absorb it and recover."

"But I feel fine!" Renji muttered stubbornly, moving his aching arms.

Liu Hao sighed and looked at Rukia. "What do you think?"

Rukia thought for a moment and nodded. "Liu Hao has a point. Renji, we've only just arrived. There's no need to rush right now. Going back to rest and regain our strength is more important."

Liu Hao said no more. He picked up his wooden sword and led the way out of the training ground. Rukia reached out and pulled at the still-reluctant Renji. "Come on, Renji. When has Liu Hao ever been wrong?"

Renji looked at Liu Hao's retreating back, then at Rukia. At last, he clicked his tongue helplessly and followed with heavy steps.

Back at the dormitory area, Rukia said goodbye to the two of them and went into her room. Liu Hao and Renji returned to their small but tidy room for two.

As soon as they entered, Renji threw himself onto his bed and let out a long breath. "I'm exhausted... That Teacher Itō is a real monster."

Liu Hao did not reply. He walked to the wall and took down the standard-issue Asauchi hanging there. The cold scabbard brought a touch of quiet coolness to his hand. He sat cross-legged in the open space in front of his bed and laid the Asauchi across his knees, his left hand resting lightly on the scabbard and his right poised over the hilt.

"Renji, come over and sit down," he said, gesturing.

Renji reluctantly pulled himself up and copied Liu Hao, sitting cross-legged and placing his Asauchi across his knees, though his movements were awkward.

"We still haven't managed to make our Asauchi remember our souls, so we can't perform true Tōzen yet." Liu Hao's voice grew calm, taking on a guiding tone. "But this posture is the foundation for communicating with our Zanpakuto in the future. Getting familiar with it early and letting our bodies remember this state of stillness will help."

He adjusted his breathing and continued, "Now close your eyes. Try to forget how sore your body is and draw your attention back from the outside world. Focus on the area below your lower abdomen, roughly... where your dantian is. Imagine a warm point of light there."

Renji closed his eyes as instructed, but his brow was tightly furrowed. He was clearly unaccustomed to this kind of motionless "cultivation."

"Then pay attention to your breathing." Liu Hao's voice slowed, almost hypnotic. "Don't deliberately control it. Just 'watch' it, one breath out, one breath in. Feel how the breath flows through your body, making your chest rise and fall.

"If distracting thoughts appear in your mind, don't resist them. Gently bring your attention back to your breathing, or to that point of light in your dantian. The goal is to let your body enter a completely relaxed state, but not to fall asleep. It's a kind of alert relaxation, a kind of... awareness of what's inside you."

After saying this, Liu Hao closed his own eyes first. He worked to calm his heartbeat and breathing, which were still somewhat rapid from the intensive training, and tried to sink his awareness into his body. The soreness remained, but he consciously "set" it aside.

He recalled the "Reishi Breathing" Teacher Nakamura had described and remembered the feeling of looking inward when his spiritual power had run out of control.

He began adjusting the rhythm of his breathing in the subtlest increments. Instead of trying to breathe deeply and slowly, he sought a more natural frequency, one that better matched the inner fluctuations of his own Reishi.

It was difficult, like feeling around in the dark for a particular thread. But he had enough patience.

The room grew quiet, leaving only the faint sound of the two of them breathing. Sunlight slanted through the narrow window, casting warm patches of light on the tatami as dust drifted slowly up and down in the beams.

At first, Renji was restless, shifting his body from time to time and breathing heavily. But perhaps he was too tired, or perhaps Liu Hao's calm tone and the atmosphere had affected him. Gradually, he stopped fidgeting, and his breathing slowly grew steady and long. Though he was probably still far from the "introspection" Liu Hao had spoken of, he had at least tried for the first time, after strenuous exercise, to spend time quietly with his own body and the Asauchi with which he would one day share life and death, in a way entirely different from what he was used to.

And in the silence, Liu Hao cast a tentative first glance at the ancient door known as "Reishi Breathing," a door almost forgotten by the world.