Ceric was in the garden saying his fond farewells to both the students and the teachers. It was that time of year when the majority of the residents went home for the fall break reuniting with friends and families. For Ceric, it was a different story. With no family nearby, he willingly took on the responsibility of overseeing the school's daily operations. He cherished these solitary moments amidst the tranquil gardens, finding solace in meditation and a deep connection with nature, particularly in the mornings when the cheerful birdsong filled the air.
There was another reason too: to teach the students who stayed behind techniques they’d have to wait years to learn. It was his gift to them, even though it was against Sifu Jacko’s wishes. Jacko was a stickler for learning techniques at a slower pace and to master one over many. Jacko learned that philosophy from one of his first instructors, Teacher Ma.
Ceric possessed only limited knowledge about Teacher Ma, primarily that he had mentored Jacko following his initial promotion and had valiantly rescued him from an assassin fox named Slyantom. In honor of Teacher Ma's influence, Jacko had christened their school as 'The Way of Sun Ma.' Another significant figure in Jacko's life had been his close friend, Sun Chin, who had tragically perished in the war against demons while heroically safeguarding Jacko's wife, Breen. Reflecting on all that he had learned about those events, he realized again just how fortunate he was to have his childhood spared from the fighting.
As Ceric contemplated these memories, the door to the arboretum swung open, prompting him to pivot around. Several female students, carrying their bags, respectfully inclined their heads in a gesture of respect. Ceric reciprocated the gesture.
"Enjoy your well-deserved break, and prepare yourselves for rigorous training upon your return," Ceric advised.
"We will, Sifu," responded one of the girls.
A brisk breeze swept across Ceric's face, prompting a slight shiver. With a desire for warmth and comfort, he made up his mind to indulge in a steaming cup of tea.
As Ceric arrived in the kitchen, he found Teacher Lai leisurely puffing on a pipe.
"Planning to stay for the break?" Ceric inquired.
Lai exhaled a plume of smoke before responding, "Yes, my wife went to Redden to visit her ailing mother. She's been unwell as of late."
Pouring himself a cup of tea from the kettle, Ceric offered Lai a sympathetic glance, "I'm sorry to hear that."
Lai sighed, his expression reflecting on the passage of time. "That's the thing about growing older, isn't it? Our parents experience it too."
Ceric grinned in response. "Father Time catches up with us all eventually. How's the leg holding up?"
Lai winced, taking a sip of tea to soothe his discomfort. "It's killing me. I regret putting that jug up so high."
Ceric chuckled. "That's why I abandoned the Iron Feet technique – too much stretching."
Lai laughed heartily. "It's not the stretching, my friend. I've been at it since I was ten."
Ceric suggested with a playful smirk, "Well, it only takes one unfortunate twist. Maybe you should consider learning my style, the Bone Breaking technique?"
Lai shook his head, still amused. "I'll stick with what I know. Besides, it'd take ages to learn something new, and I'm already thirty-eight."
Ceric feigned a backache and chuckled. “I forgot you’re an old man”
"Calling me old? Aren't you a ripe old thirty-eight?"
"I suppose you're right," Ceric said with a grin. "But at least we're not as old as Jacko."
They shared a hearty laugh, finding camaraderie in their banter.
"Perhaps when the time comes, we'll both retire to a community where they teach us Slow Fu," Teacher Lai chuckled.
"Slow Fu, that's a good one. But, kidding aside, you should never stop learning. Take Jacko, for instance. He's been at it for over thirty years and is constantly seeking knowledge," Ceric remarked.
Lai took a sip of his hot tea and inquired, "Have you ever beaten him?"
Ceric winced, rubbing his side where he had taken a hit. "Barely, and it was quite painful. How about you?"
"Not even close. His experience truly sets him apart from us," Lai admitted, taking another mouthful of tea.
Ceric refilled his cup and changed the subject. "Where's Teacher Tianna Wei?" he asked.
"In her room. She's still not feeling well," Lai replied.
"We should arrange to get some food to her. And what about Qin Yu and Ren Feng?" Ceric inquired.
"They're at the market, gathering supplies. They won't be back until late, so they asked us to handle the lecture," Lai explained.
Ceric chuckled. "How convenient, passing the responsibility on to us, I see."
Lai laughed heartily. "Well, they are senior teachers."
Ceric nodded and mused, "So, what do you have in mind for the students this year? Anything different from making them wax the floors or clean up broken jugs?"
"I was thinking of giving them a real treat by teaching them the Praying Mantis style," Lai proposed.
Ceric's eyes widened in surprise. "Mantis? Are you out of your mind? If Jacko finds out, he'll be furious."
Lai grinned mischievously. "What he doesn't know won't hurt him, my friend."
Ceric conceded with a chuckle. "I suppose you're right."
Lai took another drag from his pipe and asked, "What about you?"
"I was considering teaching them the Iron Palm," Ceric replied.
"The entire style?" Lai inquired, browsed raised.
"No, just the basics, toughening their hands," Ceric clarified.
"Maybe I'll do the same, just the basics," Lai agreed.
Ceric finished his tea, standing up. "I'll see you later in the auditorium, and for the sake of the Gods, please stop smoking."
In response, Teacher Lai playfully blew a puff of smoke in Ceric's direction.
As Ceric made his way towards the training area, he passed numerous hardworking students diligently cleaning every nook and cranny of the school. They were wholeheartedly demonstrating their appreciation for the special treatment the teachers had provided during the break.
Upon reaching the training room, Ceric, knowing it was his day off from practice, took a moment to inspect the equipment. He carefully examined each item, ensuring they were all in good working order. If something required repairing or sharpening, he would set it aside for one of the students to attend to.
Ceric had a deep passion for training and was continually improving his skills. With the weather clearing up, he contemplated testing his abilities by seeking out some potential adversaries. He even entertained the idea of inviting teacher Mao who shared his desire for a challenge.
Lost in his thoughts, Ceric suddenly realized it was time to head to the auditorium.