Chapter 23: Explaining the Four Major Exercises of Nen
Sophia turned to Leo and bowed deeply.
"Don't celebrate too soon."
Leo's expression remained calm.
"This is only the first step. 'Ten' is the most basic technique. There is still much for you to learn."
He motioned for Sophia to sit, pulled over a chair himself, and began a systematic explanation.
"The cultivation of 'Nen' is divided into four foundational practices, known as the 'Four Major Principles'."
Leo spoke methodically.
"Ten: Keeping aura within the body, like a protective armor wrapped around oneself—you have already learned this; it is the foundation of all foundations."
"The other three are Ren, Zetsu, and Hatsu."
"Ren: Instantly releasing the aura condensed within the body, enhancing its intensity and output."
"Zetsu: Suppressing aura, completely halting its flow, eliminating one's presence, used for recovering stamina or hiding."
"Hatsu: Releasing the aura cultivated through Ren according to one's will. This is the core of Nen's infinite variations. Every Nen user ultimately develops their own unique 'Hatsu,' their exclusive ability."
He paused, allowing Sophia to digest this information, then continued.
"The Four Major Principles are not isolated; they can be combined to form more powerful applied techniques."
Leo's voice was not loud, but each word was clear, unraveling the vast system of Nen abilities before Sophia like peeling back layers.
"In—an application of Zetsu: Using 'Hatsu' in a state that makes it difficult for opponents to detect."
"Gyo—an application of Ren: Concentrating aura highly in a specific part of the body, such as the eyes, to see through an opponent's 'In.' This is a fundamental skill in combat."
"Shu—an application of Ten: Wrapping Nen around an object in contact, enhancing its properties. For example, making an ordinary sword capable of cutting through iron."
"En—a combined advanced application of Ten and Ren: Expanding aura outward from oneself as the center, allowing detection of intruders within the aura's coverage."
"Ken—a combined advanced application of Ten and Ren: This is the most important defensive and enhanced state in combat. Wrapping the entire body with far more aura than usual, significantly strengthening offense and defense. A qualified Nen user must be able to maintain 'Ken' for at least half an hour. It is the foundational stance for both offense and defense."
"Ko—a combined advanced application of five techniques: Ten, Zetsu, Ren, Hatsu, and Gyo: Instantly concentrating 100% of the body's aura into a single point for explosive power! The force is immense, but the risk is extremely high. While the concentrated point possesses unparalleled offensive and defensive power, the rest of the body has zero defense against Nen at that moment! It should not be used lightly unless one is certain of hitting the opponent."
Sophia listened as if entranced. Her gaze shifted from initial confusion to gradual clarity, then filled with awe and reverence.
This half-day of explanation had opened a door for her to the true hall of power.
She took a deep breath and bowed solemnly.
"This is truly... eye-opening! So the world of Nen abilities is so vast and profound!"
"I have learned much, Master Leo! Thank you immensely for your teachings!"
Her tone was filled with sincere gratitude and a thirst for knowledge.
"Alright, that concludes the basic theory. The rest requires you to practice, experience, and refine through relentless effort."
After speaking, Leo retrieved a piece of paper and a pen from nearby, quickly drew a hexagon, and labeled the six vertices: Enhancement Type, Emission Type, Transmutation Type, Conjuration Type, Manipulation Type, and Specialization Type.
He pointed at the diagram and began to explain.
"Enhancement Type: enhances the inherent properties of oneself or weapons. I belong to the Enhancement Type."
"Emission Type: Nen can maintain its power even outside the body, allowing it to be released far from the body. The emitted Nen can change its form to attack enemies or execute commands."
"Transmutation Type: can alter the nature or shape of the generated Nen. This attribute is used whenever the nature of Nen is changed, but no matter how it is altered, it retains the property of 'energy.'"
"Conjuration Type: can transform the form of one's Nen into desired objects, materializing Nen into tangible weapons for attack."
"Manipulation Type: can inject one's Nen into a target to control it (for example, injecting it into another person's body to control them)."
His finger landed on the final point.
"As for the Specialization Type... it's very unique. Any Nen ability that does not belong to the above five types falls into this category. Specialization Type abilities are usually mysterious and unpredictable. Occasionally, there are cases where someone transforms into the Specialization Type through acquired effort."
After speaking, Leo stood up, took a glass from the table, poured in some water, then plucked a small leaf from the potted plant by the window and gently placed it on the water's surface.
"This is 'Water Divination,' which can test which type you belong to."
He placed the glass on the table.
"Now, cup your hands around the glass without touching it, then activate your Nen—slowly infuse your aura into the water."
Sophia took a deep breath and approached the glass.
She cupped her hands around the glass, closed her eyes, and tried to channel the newly mastered, still unstable Nen.
A few seconds later, the water in the glass began to ripple.
Then, a strange phenomenon occurred—the leaf on the water's surface slowly turned transparent before their eyes, and then... disappeared.
Leo was slightly surprised. "It's actually the Specialization Type."
He explained, "If it were the Enhancement Type, the water volume would increase; Transmutation Type, the taste of the water would change; Emission Type, the color of the water would change; Manipulation Type, the leaf would move; Conjuration Type, crystals would appear in the water... Any reaction not belonging to these five types is classified as the Specialization Type."
He looked at Sophia, his expression turning serious.
"This is a bit troublesome. Regarding ability development, you'll have to explore on your own. I can't provide specific advice for you. Specialization Type abilities are too personalized, and it's difficult for outsiders to guide you. However, I suggest you first master the Four Major Principles thoroughly before considering developing your unique ability."
Sophia nodded solemnly.
"Yes, I will work hard to cultivate my abilities, striving to improve my strength as soon as possible. I won't let you down!"
Her eyes were firm, filled with the focus and determination of someone who had found their direction.
Leo nodded, then pointed at the clock on the wall.
"But before that... you have five hours left to register. Go to the 200th-floor reception desk now and complete the procedures."
His tone was serious.
"Remember—do not enter any matches until you have fully mastered the Four Major Principles. The battles on the 200th floor are completely different from those below. Without a solid foundation, you will die quickly."
"And, we can talk about becoming my disciple after you've secured a victory."
Sophia nodded vigorously.
"I understand!"
She quickly put on her jacket, bowed deeply to Leo once more, then turned and walked toward the door.
As she grasped the doorknob, she paused and turned back to say.
"Mr. Leo... although you are unwilling to take me as your disciple, in my heart, you are already my teacher. I will repay this kindness with my actions."
Leo did not respond, merely waving his hand.
The door closed softly. The lounge returned to silence.
Leo walked to the window, gazing at the brilliant lights of Heavens Arena outside.
As night deepened, this colossal tower stood like an ever-burning beacon, attracting countless moths in pursuit of power.