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nWilliam himself wasn’t exactly a Soulmancer. The enhancement techniques he knew mainly came from his interactions with some powerful Soulmancers he had met in the past.

nThus, the breathing technique he imparted was actually a combination of his exchanges with these mighty Soulmancers and his own understanding. The focus was on mobilizing the body’s life energy and absorbing the scattered divine soul energy from the world.

nLife energy can be divided into five types, corresponding to the body’s five primary organs, as well as six types of energy related to bodily functions. Typical Soulmancer training starts from the basic life cycle. As their expertise grows, they gradually shift to the vital organs, aiming to increase the body’s energy storage and eliminate negative substances within.

nHowever, the method William taught Alice was distinct. He wanted Alice to start her training from the vital organs and then expand to the entire body, rather than being limited to a simple life cycle.

nThe difference between these two methods is: traditional techniques require deep meditation and concentration, whereas William’s method is more natural. Just by breathing normally, one could cultivate naturally.

nIf Alice had trained according to William’s method before he established the AuraField, it might have taken a long time to see results because this approach seemed overly simplistic.

nBut now…

nPerhaps nowhere in New York provided an environment more conducive to training than Cozy Book Haven. Therefore, choosing a slightly slower training method wasn’t really a significant setback.

n“The AuraField is truly magical. Such a method of training and enhancement feels so comfortable,” Alice exclaimed, genuinely thrilled. “I don’t have to diet, nor do I have to meditate deliberately.”

nFollowing William’s breathing technique, Alice felt invigorated and warm all over, an indescribable comfort enveloping her.

n“I should get going,” said William, seeing that Alice had mastered the technique. After finishing his coffee and checking the time, he realized it was about time to attend the dance department’s mixer.

nWatching William’s retreating figure, Alice pouted, “Master is going on a date with Evelyn. How could I possibly tag along?”

n…

nBy the time William leisurely arrived at the east gate, Wyatt and the others were already waiting.

nWyatt was dressed in a neat suit, his hair slicked back with gel. His somewhat introverted appearance made even William raise an eyebrow.

nHow to put it?

nIt wasn’t that he looked bad per se, but something felt off.

nDespite looking youthful and naive, Wyatt’s attire made him seem mature, creating a somewhat mismatched appearance.

n“William, you’ve arrived.”

nUpon seeing William, Wyatt quickly approached to greet him.

nIf it weren’t for William’s connections, their dormitory wouldn’t have been able to attend the dance department’s mixer.

nWilliam smiled, “You guys are quite early.”

nPaul grumbled, “Wyatt has been standing here since five, looking like a total dork.”

n“You have no clue!” Wyatt retorted, giving Paul a playful shove. He chuckled, “When meeting ladies, it’s better to be early than late! We can’t let them wait for us.”

nWilliam and Wyatt chatted casually for a while. Soon, it was six o’clock, and Lucy finally appeared in their view.

nIt was evident Lucy had taken great care in her appearance. She wore delicate makeup, and her dark blue woolen coat with white lace cuffs made her look petite and adorable.

nNot only were Wyatt and the others awestruck, staring with wide eyes, but many other students were also gazing at Lucy.

nLucy was naturally pretty, and with a bit of grooming, she looked even more stunning.

n“William, Evelyn won’t make it tonight. She has other commitments.”

nAs Lucy approached, she explained Evelyn’s absence. She had tried persuading Evelyn for a long time, but she refused. As close friends, Lucy was aware of Evelyn’s financial situation, and even if Lucy offered to cover the cost for the mixer, Evelyn would decline.

nShe also understood a principle deeply: it’s best not to have too many monetary involvements between close friends. That way, the friendship can remain intact and long-lasting.

nAs Lucy relayed this, she watched William’s expression closely. If William showed even a hint of disappointment, she was prepared to back off.

nHowever, William just nodded slightly, expressing no noticeable emotional reaction.

nFrom this, Lucy surmised that William probably wasn’t interested in Evelyn.

nOtherwise, for a young man, having arranged to meet someone only to find out the girl he likes can’t make it, surely there would be some display of emotion, whether disappointment or awkwardness.

nBut William’s calm demeanor likely indicated a lack of romantic interest.

n“Let’s get going!” William’s decision to attend the dance department’s mixer wasn’t solely because of Evelyn; his roommates were also keen on attending. At this point, skipping the event would be quite a mood killer.

nWilliam prepared to set off, accustomed to walking wherever he went.

nEven if mountains and rivers stood in his way, he’d walk!

n“I’ve booked a rideshare. Let’s share a car, and Wyatt, you guys can get another. We’ll meet at the hotel entrance.”

nFive people in one car would be a squeeze. Lucy wanted to share a car with William, leaving the other three to find their own ride.

nWilliam didn’t ask what a rideshare was; there were many new things he wasn’t familiar with. He just followed Lucy’s lead.

nAfter waiting for a few minutes at the east gate, a white BMW leisurely pulled up in front of them.

nThe car window slowly rolled down, revealing David in the driver’s seat.

n“Lucy, come with us.” David called out to Lucy, blatantly ignoring William. 𝗼𝘃𝗹.𝗼𝐫𝗴

nLucy glanced inside the car, hearing her roommate, Clara, exclaim, “Lucy, get in! Who are you waiting for?”

n“You guys go ahead; I’ve booked another ride.” How could Lucy possibly get into David’s car?

nGiven how Clara had mocked Evelyn back in their dorm room, if Lucy joined them, she would inevitably be subjected to Clara’s continuous bragging.

n“Alright then, David, let’s go.” In truth, Clara never really intended to take Lucy along. She had asked David to stop simply to show off.

nDavid shot William a deep, lingering look, a strange smirk playing on his lips. He said to Lucy, “Fine, see you at the hotel.”

nLucy simply acknowledged with a nod, without adding more.

nWilliam certainly noticed David’s odd smile. He understood the underlying implication all too well.

nPeople like David were of no concern to William. He didn’t waste energy pondering how to deal with David. As long as David didn’t cross a line, William had no intention of resorting to physical measures.

nIn this peaceful era, it’s best to settle things amicably.

nFortunately, Lila and her group were also joining soon. William believed there wouldn’t be any major incidents. They’d just enjoy good food and drinks with their dorm mates at the hotel.

n“William, if David and his group say anything later, please don’t get upset. I’ll back you guys up.” In that moment, Lucy realized a potential issue. Given the different social circles they belonged to, William and his dorm mates might face ridicule from David and his crew at the mixer. But since they’ve already committed, they can’t back out now.

nWilliam laughed, “Don’t worry, I have a pretty good temper.”

nHis laughter made Lucy’s heart race. She had a soft spot for boys with good temperaments.

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