Re-birth: The Beginning after the End - Chapter 32

Chapter 32: TESTING BODY LIMITATIONS

That night as Li Hua settled onto the bed, still marveling at how this small body fit perfectly between her brothers, a small smile crept onto her face as she thought about her family’s reactions when her father had arrived home.

Her mother—who was usually so composed and steady—had burst into tears, gentle hands frantically checking Li Hua for injuries while whispering gentle words of comfort and love to soothe her daughter’s spirit. Her father had refused to leave her side, his weathered hands never far from her shoulder, as if afraid she might vanish if he looked away. Her brothers, usually so boisterous and competitive, had worked together in uncharacteristic harmony, taking turns serving her the biggest pieces of meat from their dinner, their eyes watching carefully to ensure she ate enough.

She had a family now, one who loved her unconditionally. The yearning in her heart—a void she hadn’t even known existed until it was filled—felt soothed by their genuine warmth and care.

In her past life, such unconditional love had been rare, precious as jade. Little Firefly had been one of the few who truly knew her, who she could trust with not just her life but with her genuine self. She smiled, remembering how the spirit’s unwavering loyalty had been like a constant star in her darkest nights.

Her memories flickered through her mind once more, reminding her of the others who had also stood by her side. She hadn’t been truly alone. There had been Anna, her fierce and loyal second-in-command, and Su Ning, her brilliant pharmacologist and CFO, whose quiet wisdom had guided their organization’s growth from the shadows.

A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she thought about these two remarkable women who had become more than just trusted allies—they had become her family in that other life. They had sworn to follow her anywhere, their eyes bright with determination and hearts full of genuine devotion. The chuckle faded into a gentle sigh as a different kind of warmth filled her heart.

Though they might never know what had become of her, she knew with absolute certainty that they would honor her legacy. Anna would lead with the same fierce protection she had always shown, and Su Ning would ensure their work continued to help those in need.

Their love had been different from her new family’s—forged in fire, tempered by shared dangers and unwavering loyalty. While her current family’s love flowed freely and unconditionally, Anna and Su Ning’s devotion had been earned through years of mutual trust and shared purpose. Both kinds of love were precious to her, each unique in its own way, and she would cherish them both across lifetimes.

“Master?” Little Firefly’s voice pierced through her thoughts.

“Hmmm?” She answered softly.

“Master, will you be training tonight?” He asked curiously, his essence flickering with anticipation.

“Yes, I’m heading in now.” She responded, feeling the familiar pull of her inner sanctuary calling to her.

She closed her eyes, letting the gentle rhythm of her brothers’ breathing fade into background noise as she began the delicate process of entering her spiritual space. The warmth of the kang beneath her anchored her physical form while her consciousness prepared to drift into that carefully constructed realm.

In less than a breath, Li Hua now stood in her space. Firefly, as always, flew into her arms like an excited child, his warm light pulsing with joy at their reunion.

“Master! I miss you.”

“You say the same thing every time I enter.” Li Hua chuckled, her hands caressing the warm ball of light.

“But that’s because I mean it every time. It’s different seeing you compared to just being able to feel your consciousness.” He pouted, his light dimming slightly in mock offense.

“Alright, alright, stop pouting. I’ll visit more often, ok?”

“Yes, Master!” His light brightened instantly with joy.

“Come, I need to go to the storage.”

“Yes, master!”

The ball of light and the four year-old body of Li Hua walked towards the jade garden pavilion and headed to the storage area.

As she walked in, Li Hua drew in a deep breath, letting the familiar scents of her collection wash over her. It never ceased to surprise her how vast this space was.

“Little Firefly, could you bring over a full-length mirror? I need to take proper measurements.”

“Yes, Master!” The spirit’s light pulsed brightly, and a tall mirror materialized before them.

Li Hua stepped in front of the reflection and found herself caught off guard. The small scar near her left eyebrow—where Master Chen’s practice sword had once caught her during training—was completely gone.

She frowned slightly, remembering how different this body had looked just days ago.

Her skin was now smooth and soft, bright and milky. Thick, full lashes framed her large eyes, and her brows arched with a delicate grace she didn’t remember possessing. Her lips, naturally rosy, curved into a perfect bow.

“Master,” Little Firefly spoke up, sensing her confusion. “Remember the marrow cleansing bath? It not only strengthened your foundation but also purified your physical form. That’s why old scars have been healed, your skin texture improved, and your features have become more refined. The spiritual energy has harmonized with your physical form, enhancing your natural beauty while maintaining the essence of who you are. Even your meridians flow more smoothly now, though that might be harder to see in the mirror.”

Li Hua nodded thoughtfully, her fingers tracing where the scar used to be. That explained the changes she’d noticed.

She couldn’t help herself—she reached up and gently squeezed her own chubby cheeks, a girlish giggle escaping her lips before she could stop it. She was adorable. Absolutely, undeniably adorable.

Catching herself in this uncharacteristically childish display, she cleared her throat and turned her attention back to the task at hand. She walked over to where multiple rolls of spandex fabric sat and quickly cut a few pieces with practiced ease. The material felt cool and smooth beneath her small fingers. Firefly bobbed beside her, casting a warm glow over the shimmering fabric.

She then walked over to where she stored multiple small manual sewing kits and began to work on a small training outfit for her now small body, occasionally glancing at the mirror to double-check her measurements.

After a few minutes, Li Hua held up a long sleeve shirt and a pair of tights.

“Done.” She smiled in satisfaction. “I’m going to change Little Firefly, go find a hiding spot.”

“Yes, master.” Little Firefly quickly flew behind one of the jade pillars, its warm glow dimming to a faint flicker. Li Hua watched the spirit’s retreat with amusement before turning her attention to her newly crafted outfit.

The spandex stretched perfectly as she slipped it on, conforming to her smaller frame with the same precision she’d always prided herself on. She twisted left and right, testing the fabric’s give, pleased to find it allowed for the full range of motion she’d need for training. Despite her changed circumstances, some skills—like her talent for crafting practical attire—remained blessedly intact.

Li Hua moved to the textiles section, where rows of premium leather and synthetic materials awaited. With practiced efficiency, she selected a piece of lightweight, flexible leather and some high-density foam for cushioning. Her small hands moved with surprising dexterity as she crafted a pair of training shoes that would suit her new form—thin-soled for maximum ground feel, but with enough protection for intense movement.

“Little Firefly,” she called out while working, “bring me some of that athletic grip tape from the combat supplies section.”

A roll of athletic grip tape materialized before her at Little Firefly’s command. Li Hua added it to strategic points on the soles, ensuring she would have perfect traction regardless of her movement speed.

The finished shoes were simple but functional—black, close-fitting, and practically weightless. She slipped them on, flexing her feet to test the fit. Perfect. These would allow her the same silent movement she’d relied on in her past life, adapted for her current size.