Felix had already considered what he must do for the next two months even after being instructed by the Guide not to learn the Azure Cleave Dojo's sword technique and philosophy.
The best way to strengthen himself was to be in an environment where he could grow rapidly but built with a solid foundation.
In other words, blending himself with other sword cultivators.
Although the Rainwalker style was built by a Sword Immortal, he couldn't simply improve his strength by solely relying on it.
Simply put, he was a diamond in the rough.
The moment when he was being tested by Master Shen was also the moment he realized that he must state his intention clearly. If Master Shen refused, then, at least, he tried and would seek for other dojos instead. If Master Shen agreed, then it would definitely be a lot better.
Felix was confident that Master Shen agreed, though. The sparkling from his eyes after hearing what he wanted from his dojo conveyed he was completely interested.
Master Shen ruminated for a while.
He said, "There's no problem with your proposal. In fact, my disciples and students here would broaden their horizon after fighting against sword techniques different from them.
Furthermore, I can also teach you personally every week. I can correct your flaws and teach you how to fight efficiently.
However, I do have one request."
Felix's heart skipped a beat. He thought. Here we go. If he wants to learn the Rainwalker style, I don't mind giving it to him.
Master Shen said, "If there's a day you will build your own dojo, I hope you'll establish a friendly alliance with my dojo."
Felix was taken aback. He clearly did not expect the condition set by Master Shen.
He stared at him in a daze and it took him a while to finally respond.
"T-There's no problem with that."
Master Shen beamed a smile, stunning Krisha and Isaac, who were filled with surprise after surprise from Master Shen and Felix's interaction.
Master Shen said, "You definitely have the ability to surpass me. I'm quite envious that you have summoned a sword, but I don't regret that I summoned my beast pets. They are my child, after all."
Staring at Felix's face, he smiled.
He said, "I know you're surprised I didn't ask for your sword technique in return, that's on you. I have already chosen my path in cultivating the sword, so if I choose to learn yours, I'll be wasting my years of effort to cultivate the sword technique I have created.
However, I still wish you'll impart the sword techniques to others. We are still in dire need of people to fight against the beast's wave."
Felix nodded and took Master Shen's words seriously.
He reassured him. "Don't worry Master Shen, once I reach a certain level in my sword technique, I'll definitely build my dojo and spread it to others in the future."
Master Shen beamed a smile. "That's good to know."
…
Felix and Master Shen conversed for a while. Krisha and Isaac, meanwhile, felt they were neglected, especially the former.
She actually thought that Master Shen would focus on her instead and already prepared how to introduce Felix to her.
To much of her surprise and disappointment, she didn't even need to. It appeared Felix would have to be the one to introduce her to Master Shen.
It was a bitter pill to swallow.
When Master Shen finally noticed her, she smiled bitterly and greeted him again.
She bowed and said, "Nice to meet you, Master Shen."
Master Shen beamed a smile at her. "Nice to meet you too, daughter of the Mayor."
Krisha was upset. She thought. Yup, he didn't know about me.
She introduced herself. "I'm Krisha Chambers."
Master Shen was surprised.
He turned towards Felix and asked, "I didn't know your name yet."
Felix replied politely, "My name is Felix Hill, Master Shen."
Master Shen nodded. "Felix, do you prefer to impart Krisha with your sword technique? I'm telling you, your sword technique is way better than ours. Perhaps, I'll be able to improve it more, but only after training with you. Hopefully, I'll get enlightenment from your sword technique, but it would take a lot of time."
Felix was quite stunned.
He asked the Guide, "Guide, do you have a sword technique perfect for Krisha?"
[I do have several sword techniques suited for Krisha, but it's still lower than your sword art. Perhaps, it might be on the same level of this dojo's core sword technique.
Nonetheless, I can assure you that the compatibility of the sword techniques I can provide to Krisha is much higher. In your world's standard, the sword technique I have is on the Epic rank.]
Epic rank… Felix was inwardly surprised.
Does that mean it's only a single rank lower than the Rainwalker style?
The Rainwalker Style was actually the name for the mortal foundation level of the complete set of sword techniques from the Sword Immortal, which was called Sword Art.
However, since it was the first sword technique from the sword art of a Sword Immortal, it clearly belonged to the actual rank—the highest rank that the sword art could attain.
As though the Guide read Felix's thoughts, she said, [Yes, it is. Also, there is a rank higher than that.]
Felix was stunned.
He asked, stammered despite conversing with the Guide on his head, "Is there a rank higher than legendary? Legendary rank is known to be the highest rank, though? In terms of what a beast tamer can achieve, at least."
[While it is true that the Legendary rank is the highest, the host must not forget that it's based on mortal standards.
If you consider the immortal standards, then there is definitely a rank higher than legendary.
You can call it Transcendent rank because it transcends mortal limits.]
Transcendent rank… Felix was in awe.