Chapter 14: The Village
Liu Yizan could only last for thirty minutes performing the Earth Pulse Exercise.
Though his movements were steady and his focus unwavering, his body, unaccustomed to such deliberate physical activity, quickly tired.
This was his first experience with any kind of structured exercise, and he felt every muscle in his body protesting.
The only reason he could endure even that long was thanks to the endurance he had built over years of working the farmland.
From plowing fields to harvesting crops under the relentless sun, Liu Yizan had forged a body that could handle grueling physical labor.
That resilience allowed him to push through the stances and movements of the exercise.
Still, he knew this was only the beginning. 'I'll have to build up my stamina and get used to these postures. Gradually, I'll be able to sustain the exercise for longer periods,' he thought, wiping sweat from his brow.
After finishing the routine, his body drenched in sweat, Liu Yizan headed to the bathing area.
The cool water was refreshing against his heated skin, washing away the grime and tension built up during the exercise.
He dressed in fresh clothes and joined his mother and sister-in-law, who were busy with pottery work. Their deft hands moved skillfully as they molded the clay, shaping it into elegant vessels.
They exchanged lighthearted conversation, mostly about the day's chores and small anecdotes. Liu Yizan always cherished these moments, enjoying the warmth of his family's company.
But soon, as was his habit, he decided to head out to see what was happening in the village.