Chapter 73 - Small but not small help (2)
It was early morning, the sun still tucked behind the horizon, casting a gentle golden hue across the academy grounds. The cool breeze played with the strands of Maya Evergreen's hair as she strolled along, a handful of chip packets clutched in her hand. With each step, she crunched on the chips contentedly, a carefree smile lighting up her face.
"Hmm... Hmm..."
Her humming mingled with the sound of her snack, creating a strangely harmonious melody that only the morning birds and the occasional early riser could hear. Her enjoyment was evident as if she had found the secret to perfect mornings: chips and solitude.
As she walked, she glanced around, her sharp eyes taking in the tranquil scene. The campus was quiet, most students still wrapped in slumber. Maya's leisurely pace continued until a thought crossed her mind.
"As expected, waking up early is the best... Especially with chips..."
She nodded to herself, convinced of this newfound wisdom. After all, she had the world to herself at this hour, and the chips were an unexpected yet delightful companion.
With her chips in tow, Maya wandered the academy grounds, her steps carrying her toward the training area. The empty paths welcomed her, and she reveled in the peacefulness. Her munching seemed to blend in with the rustling leaves, becoming just another note in the morning symphony.
"I should train today. Yesterday, I slept for the whole day," Maya murmured, her words punctuated by the sound of her chips. Just like most of the students, Maya was a girl with a weird sleeping schedule. Sometimes, she wouldn't sleep for the whole day, and sometimes she would sleep for.
"It is Elemental Chamber today, then."
The training grounds loomed before her, and Maya's eyes brightened with determination. The Elemental Chamber awaited her, a place where her skills would be put to the test. With a final crunch, she finished the last of her chips and discarded the empty packets into a nearby bin.
As Maya stepped onto the training grounds, she noticed a few academy personnel already bustling about, setting up for the day's activities. She flashed a grin at a passing instructor, who nodded in acknowledgment. Maya's reputation as the first-ranked student in the second-year class had preceded her.
The instructor paused in her preparations, looking at Maya thoughtfully before accepting the offered chips. "Thank you," she replied appreciatively.
Maya's grin widened, pleased by the instructor's response. "You're welcome! I find that starting the day with a bit of energy from chips is quite refreshing."
The instructor chuckled, munching on a chip. "I can see the appeal. So, Maya, where are you planning to head this morning?"
Maya tilted her head, her expression playful. "I'll be heading to the Elemental Chamber. It's where I feel most at home."
The instructor smiled in understanding. "You certainly have a strong connection with that place. Always striving to master your elemental magic."
Maya's eyes sparkled with determination. "Absolutely. It's the perfect environment to challenge myself and make progress. After all, I am the world's best nature mage."
The instructor nodded in agreement. "You sure are always up for a challenge. The Elemental Chamber is all yours, given your ranking as the top student. Your dedication to improvement is commendable."
Maya's expression turned thoughtful. "Thank you. I also want to set a good example for the juniors."
The instructor's smile grew fond. "You truly are a dedicated student. Your enthusiasm and commitment are truly inspiring."
A faint blush colored Maya's cheeks at the compliment, but she maintained her cheerful demeanor. "I appreciate that. I genuinely enjoy the process of learning and growing."
As they conversed, Maya's attention was drawn to a series of clashing sounds coming from a distance. She turned her head, curiosity evident on her face.
"Do you hear that?" she wondered aloud, her gaze directed toward the source of the noise. She felt like she knew where the sound was coming from, but she couldn't put her mind to where it was.
"Ah….It is the PhantomGlide Dummy." The instructor replied, looking at the source of the sound. "A freshman student just came before you and said he wanted to challenge the PhantomGlide Dummy."
Recognition dawned on Maya's face, and she nodded in understanding. "Of course, the PhantomGlide Dummy. Someone must be engaging in rigorous training with it."
The instructor's eyes twinkled with a touch of admiration. "Indeed. It's rather impressive to witness such dedication from a freshman, especially this early in the morning."
Maya's lips curved into a pleased smile. "Early mornings often reveal the true enthusiasts of self-improvement."
As they drew closer to the source of the sounds, the instructor's gaze remained focused on the training area. "It appears the freshman is taking on quite the challenge," she observed.
Maya's curiosity deepened, and a hint of intrigue laced her words. "I wonder who that freshman might be and how they're faring against the PhantomGlide Dummy."
The instructor's expression turned thoughtful. "While I appreciate their enthusiasm, it's important for individuals to recognize battles that might not be in their favor."
Maya's brows furrowed slightly, a touch of dissent in her voice. "But isn't the academy about pushing our limits and striving for growth?"
The instructor nodded, acknowledging Maya's perspective. "Indeed, it is. However, there's a fine line between growth and setting oneself up for an insurmountable challenge. Not every battle is worth pursuing."
Maya's gaze held a glimmer of determination. "I believe that perseverance and determination can overcome even the most daunting odds."
The instructor's lips curved into a gentle smile. "While that's true, sometimes knowing when to step back is a valuable skill as well. Wisdom lies in recognizing which battles are truly worth fighting."
Maya's stance stiffened momentarily, a flash of disagreement crossing her face. "But if we always shy away from challenges, how can we ever achieve greatness?"
The instructor's gaze held a mix of understanding and wisdom. "It's not about shying away, Maya. It's about choosing battles that align with your strengths and have a realistic chance of success. Taking on battles that are overwhelmingly stacked against you might lead to unnecessary setbacks."
However, this was not something that Maya liked to talk about because it reminded her of the times of the past.
'The true warrior is the one that never steps back even in front of the battle they can't win.'
Feeling that she didn't want to talk with the instructor any longer, she waved her hands and made her way toward the Elemental Chamber.
CLANK! CLANK! CLANK!
However, with each step she had taken, the sounds of clashing echoed louder and louder.
If it was the normal time, Maya would simply step back and ignore the sounds since sounds would fill every corner of the training grounds.
But that was not the case right now since the only sound she was hearing was the sound of clashing that was coming from the PhantomGlide Dummy area.
And this made her curious. Adding the fact that the one that was going against the PhantomGlide Dummy was a freshman, she couldn't help but get more and more curious.
Who was this freshman, she wondered.
CLANK! CRUNCH CLANK! CRUNCH
The sound of chips crunching in her mouth mixed with the sounds of the clashing, and she slowly made her way to the area.
There, amidst the flurry of movements and the sound of metal meeting metal, she saw him – the freshman who had caught his attention during her time in the club.
His name was Astron. She recalled the club meeting where his name had been called out as a new member, along with his casual, gloomy aura around him.
To be honest, he was a freshman, which intrigued him since it was the first time she was being challenged like that, and it was not a bad feeling. She was a girl with a good nature, so she was always welcomed by other students.
In any case, before her, Astron was putting up a determined fight against the PhantomGlide Dummy, his movements swift and precise.
Despite the intense challenge posed by the dummy's agility, he didn't seem deterred. Every dodge, every strike, reflected his earnest effort to best the formidable opponent.
There was a reason why PhantomGlide Dummy was always considered one of the hardest challenges for students.
It was because the dummy had the innate trait to adjust its physical aspects to a little more than his enemy no matter what. And because of this, it was impossible to overpower the dummy using physical strength alone.
And because the academy was filled with rich students who consumed a lot of resources to improve their bodies, when they couldn't use this to their advantage, they would be left with technique alone. This is why freshmen were not advised to go against it, since their technique would be mostly lacking.
Maya's lips curved into a faint smile as she watched him. His tenacity was commendable, and it reminded her of her own determination when she faced various challenges in her magical journey.
CRUNCH CRUNCH
Her reputation as the top student in the second-year class wasn't just handed to her; it was the result of countless hours of hard work and determination. Only she herself did know how hard it was to put such an effort in this early in the morning.
CLANK! CLANK! CLANK!
As she observed Astron's battle, she noticed his movements evolving. It was as if he was adapting to the PhantomGlide Dummy's patterns, learning from every interaction. It was like while he was fighting with the PhantomGlide Dummy, he was not only attacking but also observing and absorbing the knowledge.
Maya's experience as a skilled nature mage gave her an acute sense of observation, allowing her to discern the subtle shifts in his tactics.
'He is like a black hole, absorbing everything.'
Unbeknownst to Astron, Maya's presence was not just a silent spectatorship. Her gaze was analytical, and with each clash, she assessed his strengths and weaknesses.
'But, his physical aspects are holding him off.'
She could easily see the battle, and she could discern that the ideas that he had formed in his mind were actually being held back by his body. Even though the speed of the Dummy was adjusted to him, he still couldn't display his techniques.
"Hufff…..Hufff…."
She could hear his ragged breath and the sweat forming on his forehead.
'Isn't he a bit too weak for an academy student?'
It was her second year inside the academy, and it was the first time she had seen such a weak student.
'It looks like it is because of his body that he is the last rank.'
Since she was the club president, she naturally knew about his rank.
But what was even more apparent was his lack of mana finesse. It was as if he was unaware of how to manipulate his mana effectively.
Maya's brows furrowed slightly, concern mingling with her curiosity. She had seen her fair share of students struggling with mana control, but Astron's situation seemed different.
It was as if he was grappling with a fundamental understanding of mana manipulation.
'Like he had never used mana before.'
Her mind raced, considering the possible reasons behind his predicament. Could it be a lack of proper training? Or perhaps he hadn't received the guidance he needed to develop his mana control skills?
Whatever the reason, Maya couldn't help but feel a twinge of empathy. Mana control was a vital aspect of a mage's arsenal, and struggling with it could hinder one's progress significantly. But that didn't mean this was not the case for normal Hunters.
No. This was also the case for the normal Hunters since they also needed to have good mana control. After all, most techniques, be it swords, spears, bows, or any other, needed mana.
'With this, he won't survive at all.'
As Astron's battle continued, Maya's analytical gaze remained fixed on him. She could almost sense his frustration, the determination to break through the barriers that held him back.
But frustration alone wouldn't suffice; he needed guidance, support, and perhaps even a mentor to help him navigate the intricacies of mana manipulation.
'Should I help him?'
Her lips pressed into a thoughtful line as she continued to watch. She debated whether she should step in and offer her insights, but a part of her hesitated.
After all, they were both students on their respective paths, and unsolicited advice might not always be welcomed.
But at that moment, the aura surrounding him changed.
Chapter 74 - Small but not small help (3)
At that moment, she felt like the aura surrounding him suddenly changed. Mana of the crimson color surrounded him like he was a demon.
'Blood Magic?'
Maya asked herself. It was not a common sight to see such color of mana elsewhere. But, it was not only the color of his mana but the feeling it gave.
She felt the bloodthirstiness that came from the exact moment.
Following that was a sight she was not expecting in her life.
The boy she thought was weak suddenly bolted towards the dummy at a rapid speed incomparable to before.
SWOOSH SWOOSH SWOOSH SWOOSH
And he started attacking the dummy rapidly.
The daggers spun in his hands, creating a crimson crescent that sliced through the air.
THUD THUD THUD
The attack was relentless, an unyielding storm of blades that sought to overwhelm the PhantomGlide Dummy.
Consistently, a crescent crimson blade formed of crimson mana tried to pierce through the dummy, and even if it didn't touch the dummy, the blades of crimson color went past it and smashed the walls behind like a wave of wind.
The dummy's defenses faltered, unable to keep up with the sudden assault. It was a fierce dance of steel and shadows, a battle between will and mechanism.
He looked like he poured his essence into every strike, each movement a testament to his growth.
'What?'
Maya was surprised. It was an incredible sight, a sight that made her blood boil in excitement.
'You can do it.'
CHUMP CHUMP CHUMP
Unbeknownst to her, she started eating her chips rapidly like she was at the climax of a movie.
'His attacks are trapping its movement.'
The purple eyes of the boy turned slightly crimson, his irises shining.
'You can do it!' She silently cheered, her heart swelling with a mix of excitement and admiration.
After all, he was putting his everything on the line.
'He is getting injured.'
She couldn't ignore the strain on his body. Veins bulged on his muscles, a testament to the physical toll his relentless assault was taking on him. But he pressed on, his resilience shining through even in the face of adversity.
'His mana control is still immature, but it is like he instinctively knows how to use it. It must be either his [Trait] or his [Skill].'
Maya's insight as a skilled mage allowed her to see beyond the surface. While Astron's mana control still showed signs of immaturity, there was an instinctive quality to his manipulation. It was as if his [Trait] or [Skill] granted him an innate understanding of mana, compensating for his lack of formal training.
It was a dance of blades.
The dance of blades continued each strike a calculated move to surprise and overwhelm the dummy. Astron's attacks were relentless, each movement a reflection of his determination to succeed.
'He is trying to overwhelm it with his technique.'
SWOOSH SWOOSH
In the midst of his rapid assault, a particular strike caught Maya's attention. It was a slash of different speed and trajectory, a deliberate attempt to catch the dummy off guard. The dummy, accustomed to its pattern, barely managed to evade the strike, showcasing its waning defenses.
SWOOSH
Then, following it was another slash from the reverse side, aimed at the dummy's lower side.
SWOOSH
But the dummy once again evaded his strike.
'Another one.'
However, Maya could see that Astron had already predicted the parry.
Another strike aimed at the reverse side was approaching.
SWOOSH
And the dummy responded in the last second, evading the strike.
None of his strikes hit, but they were not blocked either because the dummy couldn't keep up with the speed.
'Huh? Another attack? But, it is too late?'
Maya immediately saw another attack aimed right at the core of the dummy, but the dummy was already about to dodge the attack.
'Huh?'
But it didn't.
Rather, it couldn't.
Because surrounding it were a bunch of red threads formed all around its body.
'This is?'
Even she herself didn't realize the little amounts of crimson-colored mana left on the air like threads. She was far too focused on his attacks that even as an outsider, she forgot.
CLANK TOK
And then, it happened.
A triumphant clash – the sound of his daggers meeting the dummy's defense one final time.
The Phantom Glide Dummy couldn't evade the strike, and neither could it parry it since the attack came too fast.
The crimson-colored dagger pierced through its defenses, but at the same time, the threads of crimson above the dummy immediately descended, closing the cage.
PUFF
The PhantomGlide Dummy faltered, its form flickering before dispersing into nothingness to be repaired by the magical engineers.
"He actually did it."
Maya's heart swelled with exhilaration as she witnessed Astron's victory. The intense battle had been won, not through brute force, but through strategy, determination, and the unyielding will to succeed. It was a testament to his growth, his potential, and his unshakable spirit.
But at the same time, it was a feeling that she had forgotten in a while.
The thrill of battle, the sense of challenging one's own limits.
Just as before coming here, she had talked with the instructor about how she challenged her limits constantly, but that couldn't be more wrong.
In fact, rather than challenging herself, she was simply doing what she was comfortable with.
As a Nature Mage with good Elemental abilities, she always felt comfortable inside the Elemental Chamber rather than challenging herself. She felt like she was in her home while training there using her nature magic.
And since the Elemental Chamber was a place that was always thought of as hard, everyone thought she easily endured it because she was a genius.
That was true, but it was not because she was a genius but because she was a nature mage. From the first moment she stepped there, she never felt uncomfortable at all.
"Ah….."
And, now witnessing such a thing happening before her eyes, she couldn't help but feel exhilarated. It was like getting simply inspired and hyped.
'What was I doing?'
But that didn't mean she never pushed herself. No, she did. Before coming to the academy or in the first months of her education, she pushed herself.
A triumphant smile graced her lips as she watched Astron's form, his chest heaving from the exertion of the battle. It was a moment that resonated with her own memories of pushing her limits, a reminder of the thrill she used to find in challenging herself.
But as the adrenaline began to ebb away, Maya's awareness shifted to Astron's condition. She noticed a telltale sign – his staggering steps and the faint waver in his stance.
It was clear that the intense battle had taken a toll on him, depleting his energy and leaving him on the brink of exhaustion.
THUD
Following that, he collapsed on the ground, not being able to stand anymore.
Without a moment's hesitation, Maya closed the distance between them, her concern overriding any remaining barriers. Her steps were swift and purposeful, her heart now filled with a different kind of empathy.
"Are you all right?" she asked gently, her voice laced with genuine concern as she reached out a supportive hand towards him.
"Hufff….Hufff….."
Astron's breath was labored, his shoulders rising and falling rapidly as he struggled to catch his breath. He gave a faint nod, his expression a mix of exhaustion and a hint of pride.
"Wow! That was incredible!" Maya exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I've never seen anyone take down the PhantomGlide Dummy like that before. Your technique and determination were amazing!"
Astron grumbled softly, his voice barely audible. "It was nothing..."
Maya's grin widened, undeterred by his modesty. "No, seriously, you were like a whirlwind out there. Your moves were so precise, and that final strike was just... wow!"
Astron's gaze remained fixed on the ground, his exhaustion evident. He was clearly not used to receiving praise, especially not from someone as energetic as Maya.
"I mean, not many students can even land a hit on that dummy, let alone defeat it," Maya continued, her excitement contagious. "You really know your stuff!"
Astron's response was a barely decipherable grumble, but Maya wasn't discouraged. She was on a roll and determined to make him see his accomplishment.
"And that thread technique you used to trap the dummy – that was so smart!" Maya's eyes shone with admiration. "I've never seen anything like it. It was like you had the dummy dancing to your tune!"
"Tch." However, the response she received was a click of the tongue. Astron's lips pressed into a thin line, his exhaustion and discomfort evident.
He disliked when other people learned about his skills and meddled with his affairs.
"You should be really proud of yourself, Junior," Maya continued, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. "You faced a tough challenge and came out victorious. That takes real skill and determination." Her hand was on her chest as she spoke like a general on the battlefield.
In fact, she even imagined herself in such a manner.
But Astron could no longer tolerate the girl's rambling. His gaze finally lifted, meeting Maya's earnest blue eyes. He couldn't deny that her words held a sincerity that was hard to ignore, but he also didn't want to admit it.
"How long have you been watching?" He asked, with a silent protest. It was like he was trying to say it is rude to watch other people's techniques.
Pondering about his question for a second, she realized she had been watching him for quite a while. "Hmm? Probably from the start?"
"Tch? Don't you know it is rude to watch other people's skills?"
"Hmm? Is it rude?"
"It is."
"I see….But, then, why are you training on the open field if you don't want to show your skills?"
"That…." Astron hesitated. Even with him being very good with words, her point also made sense. Also, he didn't want to argue.
Seeing him not answering her words, Maya put a proud expression on her face.
"Nihihihi…." Followed by a hearty laugh.
"What is so funny?"
"Nothing…"
"Tch."
"Anyway, Junior," Maya addressed him with a mixture of warmth and respect, sticking to the playful term she had chosen earlier. "You are really skilled. It is my first time seeing a freshman landing a hit on the PhantomGlide Dummy."
Astron's annoyance was momentarily replaced by a flicker of surprise. It was clear that Maya's praise held a genuine quality that he hadn't anticipated.
"However…" Maya's expression shifted to one of thoughtful analysis. "There's room for improvement."
"You've got great technique and instincts," Maya began, her tone focused. "But there's a certain finesse you're missing. It's like you're commanding your body to move, but your body is unable to follow your commands."
She slowly lowered her gaze into his body, observing the leanness. Even though he looked weak, she could see the developing muscles underneath the clothes.
"But the last technique you used. You just learned it, right?" Maya just nailed the point, her eyes piercing through him.
"….."
"It was obvious, you know. When you were facing off against the PhantomGlide Dummy," Maya continued, her gaze intense, "you were using your mana without any control. It was powerful, no doubt, but raw. You've got to learn to shape and guide your mana like a sculptor creating a masterpiece. But at that moment, while using that movement, you did it on your own."
"Senior Maya, you are really something."
Maya offered a light chuckle at his remark. "Of course, this lady here is the first rank."
"Sigh…."
"Hey, if you're interested, I can help you with your mana control skills," Maya suggested with a friendly smile.
Astron's brows furrowed as he regarded her with skepticism. "Why would you want to do that?"
He didn't believe in helping others without benefits. Everyone had an agenda of their own in his eyes.
Maya's smile didn't waver, but her eyes held a mixture of sincerity and determination. "Consider it a repayment, Junior."
Astron blinked, confusion crossing his features. "Repayment? For what?"
Maya's gaze softened as she looked at him. "For reawakening something in me – the desire to challenge myself, to push beyond my comfort zone. You see, it's easy to get caught up in routine, to stick to what's familiar. But seeing you face that challenge head-on, with no fear or hesitation, it reminded me of what it's like to truly test your limits."
Astron's expression remained neutral, though her words did make him pause for a moment. He had never really thought about how his actions could impact someone else, especially someone as accomplished as Maya.
"I've been too comfortable, too complacent," Maya continued, her voice tinged with a hint of self-reflection. "But watching you today, it struck me that I've been holding back, just like you were against that dummy."
Astron's gaze remained locked with Maya's as he absorbed her words.
"So, if you let me, I'd like to help you refine your mana control," Maya said, her tone resolute. "And in return, you'll be helping me challenge myself again, just like you did today."
Astron's expression remained neutral, his thoughts racing. The idea of helping someone else challenge themselves appeared out of the blue, and it was not certainly a normal idea.
"Think about it," Maya said, her smile returning. "No pressure, Junior. If you're not interested, that's okay too."
But, for Astron, this was an opportunity that would never come back in the century again.
"No, there is no need to think. If it is you, senior, I accept it."
Chapter 75 - Small but not small help (4)
Now, in this world, there are things we can control, and there are things we cannot.
This is an undeniable fact.
And no matter what, a person can not be on guard most of the time while doing whatever they want.
Sometimes, we would need to focus, we would need to put everything into one place, and that time would be our most defenseless state in a sense.
These were my thoughts the moment I sensed someone's presence before me after I collapsed.
The cheerful, annoying girl, our club president, and strong senior. Those would be the words that would define her from my eyes.
However, undoubtedly, she was one of the most talented people in this world. Being the first rank of the second year and achieving it overwhelmingly was something that was not very easy to do.
Even with talent alone, you can't do that; you need to put in work as well.
However, the idea of someone watching me while training is something that will, of course, make me uncomfortable. After all, I am a person who dislikes being around others, which also means others being around me.
Therefore, at first, I was slightly angry that she was watching me.
"I see….But, then, why are you training on the open field if you don't want to show your skills?"
Hearing those words, I couldn't refute it. I also didn't have the energy to do so. After all, constantly sparring with a dummy for at least 3 hours straight was something hard.
My body was tattered, my muscles were screaming at me, there were some veins that protruded up, and my breathing was ragged.
But, while I was talking with Maya, even if the topic was slightly soft, I learned that when she got serious, she was really someone to take note of.
She was experienced, and she was smart enough to make use of her experience. The way she gave me feedback was certainly true.
"Hey, if you're interested, I can help you with your mana control skills,"
But, it was those words that made me surprised. Helping someone out of the blue was not something any person would normally do.
Therefore, like any logical person would do, I thought she was looking for something from me. Nobody would be without anything to gain, especially for a task that requires this much time.
But then, when I asked it, the answer I got was something I was not expecting.
"Consider it a repayment, Junior."
"So, if you let me, I'd like to help you refine your mana control. And in return, you'll be helping me challenge myself again, just like you did today."
She was talking about challenging herself and her drive, and this was not something that was in the game.
Senior Maya didn't have much screen time, so I didn't know her character aside from the surface she had put on.
But, this was not a game, so everyone had their own life and own experiences.
'This is not an opportunity I can miss.'
This was all I could think of. In the end, the biggest thing I was lacking was my mana control; therefore, learning from the best the academy could offer was something I could not refuse.
So, I just accepted the offer.
******
Maya Evergreen.
A girl with a slightly different common sense than others.
But even then, she was not a girl with a bad nature. Rather, considering her actions, one could even say that she is a good person.
Her existence is someone who lightens everyone around her with her own shine.
Therefore, she was undoubtedly one of the most influential students in the academy. It was not because of her family, nor was it because of her rank.
It was because of a good personality and good interpersonal communication.
"So, this is the Elemental Chamber," Astron mumbled as both he and Maya entered there.
The Elemental Chamber lay before them, its entrance marked by an intricately carved archway that seemed to pulse with a faint glow.
It was like LED lights illuminating the surroundings, but in fact, they were all mana psions that had taken the attribute of the special element.
It was a place reserved only for high-ranking students of the academy, a privilege earned through hard work and dedication to their studies.
Maya stepped into the Elemental Chamber with an excited grin, her blue eyes lighting up with a mixture of anticipation and familiarity.
She turned to Astron and spoke with a touch of enthusiasm in her voice, "Yep, this is the Elemental Chamber! It's one of the gems of the academy. Not many students get the chance to access this place."
This place was like her own home since she spent most of her time here, improving her mana and practicing her magic.
Astron glanced around, taking in the ethereal atmosphere of the chamber. The walls seemed to pulse with a soft, ever-changing light, and the air felt charged with energy. He was clearly intrigued, though he maintained his usual calm exterior.
Even though he used this place in the game, most of the time, the process of training was skipped with a cutscene, so he didn't pay much attention to it. But now that he was here, his senses could pick up the clear and pure mana around here.
"Exactly," Maya continued, noticing Astron's curiosity. "This place is special because of the mana psions that fill the air. These are no ordinary mana particles; they're infused with the essence of different elements – fire, water, earth, wind, and more. It's like being surrounded by a symphony of mana."
She extended her hand towards the glowing archway, her fingers nearly brushing the intricate carvings. "The Elemental Chamber is where students with advanced mana control come to refine their skills further. The dense and diverse mana here challenges us to adapt and enhance our control."
Astron's interest was piqued. "So, being exposed to these dense mana psions helps improve our control?"
Maya nodded, her expression becoming more serious as she explained, "Exactly. When you practice your techniques in an environment with higher mana density, it's like trying to walk against a stronger current. It forces you to adjust and refine your control, making your manipulation of mana even more precise."
Hearing this, Astron nodded his head. "This makes sense." Also, considering the time Demon King descended on the world, he knew mana was bound to get denser and denser on the planet.
The way Developers explained this was that all mana from different dimensions would flow through there just like the time of Nexus Convergence, thus resulting in a higher mana density. But that is for the future.
But, one thing bothered his mind. "Why is this place called Elemental Chamber if it is filled with a dense amount of mana? Can't they simply call it Mana Chamber?"
It was a question that made sense. After all, not all types of mana were elemental. There were types of unique mana psions like Sylvie's light, darkness, void, space, time, telekinesis, and many others. Skills were diverse, traits were diverse, not specifically limited to elemental types alone, and still, they consumed mana.
"You are right, but only if this place only had dense mana."
"So, you mean this place has more to offer?"
"Exactly." Maya chuckled at Astron's question, clearly anticipating it. "You've got a sharp mind, Astron. And you're right; this place isn't just about general mana density. It's called the Elemental Chamber because, within this chamber, there are specific rooms dedicated to the different elements. Each of these rooms is infused with a much higher concentration of specific elemental mana."
Astron's eyebrows raised in curiosity. "So, there are rooms where the density of a certain elemental mana is even higher?"
Maya nodded, her excitement evident. "Exactly! Let's say you want to focus on enhancing your control over fire mana. You'd step into the Fire Chamber. The air there is practically crackling with intense fire mana. This allows you to immerse yourself in the nuances of that element, adjusting your control and techniques accordingly."
Astron's expression became contemplative. "So, it's like targeted training for specific elemental skills."
Maya clapped her hands together in approval. "You've got it! For mages who specialize in specific elements, these chambers are a godsend. They're like a controlled environment where you can fine-tune your abilities, test new techniques, and refine your understanding of that particular element."
Astron's eyes glinted with understanding. "And I'm assuming each of these chambers has its own unique challenges and obstacles to overcome."
Maya's smile widened. "Exactly! Water currents in the Water Chamber, shifting earth formations in the Earth Chamber, gusts of air in the Air Chamber—you name it. Each room replicates specific scenarios that you might face in real battles. It's not just about control, but about adapting your skills to real-world situations."
Hearing all those things, Astron could easily see why Arcadia Hunter Academy revered this highly. This amount of preparation was not something that was easily done, and it certainly required appreciation.
"They certainly considered quite a lot of things, aren't they?" Astron mumbled, looking at the glowing walls. He was already feeling the dense amount of mana around the atmosphere, and this was slowly starting to pressure him.
"They did indeed. Now, do you see why this place is this sought after?"
"I do. After all, it is not simply refining your control over a simple element. You can also prepare yourself for specific situations where a dungeon is filled with one type of mana psions alone."
Maya's eyes sparkled with approval as Astron grasped the significance of the Elemental Chamber's design. "You've got it exactly, Astron. It's not just about mastering elements in isolation. It's about becoming a versatile mage who can excel in diverse scenarios.
And you're spot-on about dungeons – there are places where a specific type of mana psions dominates the environment due to a unique dungeon's characteristics."
Maya continued. "So, let's say there's a dungeon with dense darkness mana. A mage who has trained extensively in the Darkness Chamber here would have a significant advantage in that dungeon, as they're already accustomed to working with such mana."
As they continued their conversation, Maya led Astron through the various chambers, explaining the intricacies of each one.
To be honest, even Astron was tempted to raise his rank inside the academy after seeing all those facilities here.
He knew the dorm rooms also had a lot better functions as the rank of the students increased, but he didn't know the Elemental Chamber had such a wide range of functionality.
It was truly a good experience.
"Now, let's stop with this and waste no more time," Maya replied. Since she used her own card and her first-ranked student privilege to enter this place while it was empty, she didn't want to waste any more time. "You have already composed yourself, right?"
The reason why Maya didn't start training with Astron immediately was not because she wanted to waste time touring. It was because Astron was both mentally and physically tired, so she wanted to give him some time to prepare.
"Yes, I am ready." And Astron also knew this. After all, he was an expert at reading others, and Maya didn't hide it either.
"Then, come with me." With those words, Maya slowly made her way toward the place she mostly occupied. "We will start from the very basics."
While her aura suddenly changed from easygoing to ferocious.
"I won't go easy on you, so make sure you are listening to me well."
It was the first time Astron would see how different a person could be…..
Chapter 76 - Small but not small help (5)
Maya's demeanor shifted noticeably as she led Astron to a particular spot within the high-tech training facility. Her previously easygoing nature gave way to an aura of focused determination. It was as if a different person had emerged, a more serious and authoritative side of Maya.
"Stand here," Maya commanded, pointing to a designated spot on the training floor. "We'll start with the very basics of mana control."
Astron obeyed, positioning himself where Maya indicated. His curiosity was piqued by the sudden shift in Maya's demeanor, and he was eager to learn from her.
Maya took a deep breath, her gaze locked onto Astron. "Mana is the essence of all things supernatural. It's the energy that flows through our world, and as Hunters, we harness it to perform incredible feats. In this facility, you can see small particles of mana essence scattered everywhere." She gestured to the faint, shimmering particles that seemed to dance in the air around them.
"In normal circumstances, a mix of various mana types is present in the environment," Maya continued. "These mana particles respond to our own supernatural energy, and Hunters can manipulate them using their specialized [Skill] or through direct comprehension."
Astron nodded, absorbing her words. He watched as Maya extended her hand toward the particles, and they seemed to gravitate towards her, forming a swirling cluster around her palm.
[Skill] are pre-designed techniques that manipulate mana in specific ways," Maya demonstrated, her voice confident. "If you possess the right [Skill], you can channel mana through it and perform feats without worrying too much about the fine control. The [Skill] does the work for you."
Astron's analytical gaze was fixed on the display. He observed how the mana essence responded to Maya's control, forming patterns and shapes at her command.
Maya's hand motion shifted, and the mana essence dispersed into the air once again. "But what if someone doesn't have the appropriate [Skill]?"
Maya's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Ah, that's where true mana control comes into play. Without [Skill], Hunters need to learn how to manipulate mana directly. It's like shaping a high-tech gadget with your hands. You need to understand the nuances of different types of mana, their flow, and how they interact."
Astron's gaze sharpened further as he focused on Maya's explanation.
Maya's expression turned serious again. "No, it's not easy. It requires a deep connection to the supernatural elements, an innate sense of the mana's rhythm, and the ability to guide and shape it with precision."
Astron watched as Maya's hand extended again, this time with a different gesture. The mana essence responded, swirling around her fingers in intricate patterns.
'What a precise control.'
Astron's expression shifted into a mixture of understanding and determination as he continued to observe.
Maya glanced at Astron before continuing her explanation. "And that's not all. [Traits] like space control or specific elemental affinities give Hunters a natural edge in controlling mana. But for those without such [Traits], it's a challenging but rewarding journey."
"I see….." Astron nodded his head. He was absorbing the knowledge as he was absorbing the demonstration Maya was making.
"But, it is not every time traits are blessings." Maya continued her words. "There are certain times when developing a trait is a lot harder than simply controlling mana, or there are certain traits that make people unable to comprehend and use other types of mana as well."
Maya's words intrigued Astron. He listened intently, his analytical mind processing the information.
"For example," Maya continued, "there are [Traits] that grant individuals enhanced physical attributes – strength, speed, durability – but they may come at the cost of being unable to manipulate external mana effectively. Their bodies become a conduit for raw power, but they lack the finesse for complex magical manipulation."
Indeed, this was the case, as Astron knew a bunch of such characters with such abilities. There was a certain madman who went around the world and constantly challenged other people to make sure that he was the strongest.
"On the other hand, there are [Traits] that enable individuals to tap into specific types of mana that they wouldn't be able to use otherwise. Take healing magic or light mana, for instance. These [Traits] give unique access to mana that's generally inaccessible to most Hunters."
Astron's eyes narrowed slightly.
'That's why I couldn't use fire mana to imbue my arrows.'
This was the reason why he was unable to use the environmental mana to simply generate a fireball or imbue his arrows with natural elements like other people could do, and that was why he was having such a hard time.
"These types of traits are the ones that mostly make people have a hard time since the type of mana they are using are mostly different; they can't instinctively learn how to control their mana. I assume that was the case for you as well."
Looking at her like that, Astron easily saw why Maya was the first-ranked student. Even though all that knowledge was actually general knowledge, for Maya, it should not have been important. But she still remembered all those details, which meant her memory was exceptionally good.
Her analysis was spot on, and she did it from just one fight.
'She is quite good at observing as well.' Astron nodded his head in response.
"As expected, that red-colored mana was not a type I could use; that means it should be your trait."
Maya's lips curled into a pleased smile, knowing that she was having a chance to guide someone from the zero.
'It is as if teaching a newborn baby how to walk. It is too much fun.'
Maya couldn't help but notice how attentively Astron was listening to her. His focus never once wavered. The gloomy aura surrounding him was slightly dispersed as if he genuinely enjoyed listening to her words.
'What a weird guy you are, Junior.' She shook her head inwardly and shifted her focus back to their training, ready to guide him through the next steps.
"We'll begin with the basics of mana control," Maya started, her voice steady. "Since you're unable to sense other types of mana naturally, I'll show you how to manipulate raw mana without attributes. You will first learn how to condense your mana."
Astron watched closely as Maya's expression became focused. She extended her hand, and a faint shimmering aura began to form in her palm. It was a beginner's manifestation, lacking the refined control Maya usually displayed.
"See this?" Maya said, her voice calm as she manipulated the raw mana. "This is unattributed mana, the foundation of all magical energy. It's like the canvas before the painting."
Astron nodded, his eyes working as his trait [Perceptive Insight] was peering through the essence of her manipulation.
"Now, watch as I condense the mana," Maya continued. The shimmering aura began to gather and concentrate, forming a denser, more tangible form. "With practice, you can shape and direct the mana just like you would mold clay."
Astron's gaze remained focused on the shifting energy in Maya's palm.
Maya's next move demonstrated her control over the mana even further. She manipulated it to form a thin thread-like structure that extended from her palm. The thread wavered in the air, a testament to Maya's skill in controlling the mana's shape.
"Now, manipulating magical power is about finesse," Maya explained. "You can use it to remove objects, grab things, or even affect the environment around you. It's like having an invisible extension of yourself. Swordsmen use this as an extension of their Sword Aura to form ranged attacks, or they will simply condense the energy on themselves.
From the looks of it, you know how to clad yourself in a mana and improve your weapon, correct?"
"Indeed."
"But, the way you are doing is immature. You are doing what you are doing without a clear goal, nor do you know the necessary procedures."
Astron nodded, absorbing her assessment. He recognized that while he had been able to manipulate mana in certain ways, there was a lack of refinement in his control.
That was what he was trying to improve so hard, after all, and that was proving to be hard without clear guidance.
"Now, give it a try," Maya instructed, her gaze encouraging him.
Astron closed his eyes and focused on his inner mana essence. He tried to shape it without any specific goal in mind, just as he had done before.
However, this time, he was met with frustration. The mana seemed elusive, slipping through his attempts to control it.
'This is a lot harder than I thought.'
He understood the reason why people were this jealous of geniuses when it came to mana sense. After all, the former Astron was someone who didn't have access to any mana, and the one from Earth came from a world without mana.
Therefore, it was natural for him to not understand and grasp it on the first attempt.
Maya's observation was keen, and she could see Astron's struggle. She stepped closer, her expression open and unguarded. "Astron, watch closely."
With a fluid motion, Maya extended her hand towards a nearby object, a small stone on the ground. Her mana surged and condensed around her fingertips, forming a subtle but visible aura. The aura reached out and gently enveloped the stone, lifting it from the ground.
"See this?" Maya's voice was calm, her movements controlled. "I'm setting a clear intention and guiding the mana with purpose. It's not about forcing it, but about understanding its flow."
The stone floated in the air, suspended by Maya's manipulation of mana.
"Now, I want you to try it," Maya encouraged, taking a step back to give Astron space.
Astron took a deep breath and focused once more. He pictured the stone in his mind, visualizing his mana extending towards it. Slowly, he tried to guide his mana towards the stone.
But again, his efforts fell short. The stone remained unmoved, and Astron's brow furrowed in concentration.
Maya stepped closer again, this time moving even closer to Astron. She extended her hand, reaching out to touch his arm from behind.
FLINCH
Astron flinched slightly at the unexpected contact.
'What is this woman doing?' He immediately thought. No matter what, in his mind, Maya was not someone who would touch others carelessly, and he was also 'uncomfortable.'
However, Maya was in her serious mode, focused on guiding him. Ignoring his initial reaction, she applied more pressure, her touch firm as she guided his arm.
"Astron, feel the mana's flow. Let it become an extension of your intent."
Despite his discomfort, Astron felt a faint, tingling sensation where Maya's hand touched him. Her touch seemed to guide his focus, helping him attune to the mana's energy.
'Tch….What the hell am I thinking?' Seeing that Maya was dead serious about helping him, Astron felt ashamed a little. The fact that he was judging her actions while she was trying to help him was not something he deemed good.
"Focus on the stone," Maya's voice was insistent. "Feel the mana responding to your will. Guide it like an artist crafting a masterpiece."
Following her words, Astron also didn't care about the distractions around him and did as he always has done.
He closed his eyes and focused his senses once again. With Maya's strong and unwavering guidance this time, he could feel the faint pull of mana, like a gentle current tugging at his senses. He focused his intent on the stone, picturing the mana flowing towards it.
And then, it happened. The stone trembled slightly, lifting a fraction of an inch off the ground.
Maya's serious grip on his arm loosened as she put a smile on her face, seeing the thread of mana connecting him to his stone. Her smile was 'warm' and 'encouraging,' which was constantly twitching.
"That's it, Astron. You're starting to connect with the mana's flow. You are finally taking the first step."
Chapter 77 - Small but not small help (6)
We humans are, by nature, creatures with masks, no matter what. There are a lot of times when a person's feelings are a lot different from how they appear on the outside.
This was exactly the same for Maya.
'What do I do?'
Just now, Maya did something she had never thought she would do before. She touched Astron on his arm, and feeling his body flinching, she realized what she had done.
'This is not a girl, he is a boy.'
It was not the first time, Maya helped others to improve their mana control, but it was the first time it was a boy.
'Don't falter! You are simply trying to teach him!'
She realized that it would be rude to get embarrassed right now.
She was simply trying to teach him, and that's it!
"Astron, feel the mana's flow. Let it become an extension of your intent."
So, she did as most people have done. Ignoring his initial reaction and her own feelings, she pushed forward, grabbing him more tightly and getting closer to him.
She put her mana into his body and let it guide him just like she had done with her friends.
"Focus on the stone. Feel the mana responding to your will. Guide it like an artist crafting a masterpiece."
And he was able to do it in the end. Seeing the mana thread he made, she clearly felt the satisfaction of being able to teach someone.
But one thing was different this time.
'So close.'
Her smile was about to falter as she could feel his low body heat. She was feeling very uncomfortable and conscious of him, so she chose to retreat.
"That's it, Astron. You're starting to connect with the mana's flow. You are finally taking the first step."
After that, she took a small step back, and she started observing him.
'Why did I touch him like that?'
Maya was a girl that has never had any relationship with a member of the opposite sex before. No, rather than saying relationship, she had never been close to males.
If her friend were there, she would say it was not because Maya didn't have the qualifications for it but rather because she was an airhead.
That was certainly true since, for Maya, from the moment she awakened as a child, her whole world was magic.
Not because she loved it at first but because it was her family that forced her, and in the end, she developed herself in the place of magic rather than opening up to a social world of young couples.
Therefore, she didn't know how to progress a relationship with people romantically. Of course, she had friends, but none of them were male.
She also acquired the habit of losing her control when she was excited about something, which she was most of the time.
And all these led to the situation she was in.
The junior she wanted to help since he made her regain her drive.
'He is certainly working hard.'
Looking at him from the sides with his eyes closed, she thought. His hard work was evident. Even right now, she clearly felt that he was uncomfortable with her touch, but he didn't say anything and only focused on improving.
'Just as I expected. Nobody has ever taught him how to use mana before.'
Thinking like this, an innate sadness filled her heart. She thought he was being discriminated against because of his low rank, even though he was working this hard. That was something that she could never accept.
Even if Maya was an airhead, strangely, she could see how other people looked at others. Her airheadedness was something only concerned herself.
Because of that, she could see the gazes others had thrown at him. Some of them contained scorn, some of them were derogatory and insulting.
But she didn't feel such a vibe from him. Certainly, he was someone who was rude and straightforward, but he had never put his nose into other's business, nor did he randomly antagonize others.
'Let's make him a good Hunter and rub it their faces.'
Seeing him clearly trying to improve, she felt it was unfair to treat him in such a way, and a fire ignited in her heart.
A fire to make him improve.
But, for Astron, it was the start of misery, since when Maya gets excited about something, she would lose her control.
******
For the next few hours, Maya guided Astron through various exercises she designed to refine his manipulation of mana.
She demonstrated different techniques, showing him how to condense mana into threads, shape it into specific forms, and even disperse it back into the environment.
"For this next exercise," Maya instructed her voice firm, "I want you to condense the mana into a small sphere and then expand it gradually. Focus on maintaining control throughout the process."
Astron nodded and closed his eyes, visualizing the mana as he had been taught, and then began the process. At first, his efforts were shaky, the mana sphere flickering in and out of existence.
"Steady your focus, Junior," Maya advised. "Feel the mana's energy in your mind and guide it with intention."
With Maya's guidance, his control improved.
The mana sphere stabilized, and he started to expand it slowly, like a growing bubble. He could feel the energy responding to his thoughts.
'I am getting the hang of it.'
He was already in a position where he could manipulate his mana in a much more refined way. It was not to the extent that he mastered it, but he could finally feel the difference between his past approach and this one.
The mana he was using before was clearly in the meditation of his trait [Lunar Enigma]. The moon mana he was using stemmed from his trait and his initial instinct.
But, right now, rather than simply making use of his trait, he was doing what every hunter could do—manipulating the raw mana and using it.
This may seem pointless since he already had his trait, but this was going to help him in the end. It was like learning Calculus in college and making use of it in your Major as an engineer. Without knowing fundamentals, the road ahead would be hard to progress.
As the training session continued, Maya observed his progress with a keen eye. She could see the moments when he struggled and the moments when he found his rhythm. Her feedback was constructive, and he absorbed every word, adjusting his technique accordingly.
"Your mana threads are getting more refined," Maya commented a hint of approval in her voice. "Keep practicing the expansion exercise, and soon, you'll be able to control larger volumes of mana with precision."
Astron was fully engaged, pushing himself to improve rapidly. With each exercise, he felt himself becoming more attuned to the mana's flow, more adept at guiding its energy.
Maya was showing him no mercy. She was constantly pressuring him, shoving him mana, and even sometimes making him spar with her.
Though Maya's surprise was evident as she watched his progress. "Junior, you're picking this up faster than I anticipated."
Astron's fatigue was still present, but there was a sense of accomplishment that surpassed it. "Thank you, Senior. Your guidance is making a real difference."
It was his genuine appreciation since, without Maya, he would never have been able to improve himself.
Maya's smile was warm, reflecting her pride in his achievements. "You're the one putting in the hard work, Junior. I'm just here to steer you in the right direction."
Of course, this was also true.
For the past five hours, Maya was constantly working with him without giving him any breaks.
However, just like any other thing, everything in this world has its ends this session had, too.
CHATTER CHATTER
Looking at the slowly getting crowded Elemental Room, Astron could see things would be troublesome if they kept going any longer.
He was here thanks to Maya's favor, but also because this place was empty in the morning. No matter what, even if it was Maya, it was very hard for her to keep an unqualified student inside in front of this many people's gazes.
Therefore, he was about to talk to Maya about it, but she beat him.
"It looks like our session needs to come to an end for now," Maya said, her voice carrying a note of regret. She glanced around at the growing number of students in the room.
Astron nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's getting a bit crowded. I shouldn't be here any longer."
Maya's smile returned. "Exactly. But don't worry, Junior. We've made substantial progress today."
Astron bowed his head with a clear gratitude. "Thank you, Senior. I really appreciate your guidance."
Maya's smile widened, and her excitement could be felt. "You're welcome. But remember, we're not done yet. We'll continue tomorrow."
Maya's smile widened, and her excitement was palpable. Suddenly, she took a step closer to him, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "You know, I had a lot of fun teaching you today. Seeing your progress and improvement—it's genuinely exciting! So, I hope you're ready for another round tomorrow. Same time, same place?"
Astron's brow furrowed in surprise. "Tomorrow?"
Maya's excitement was infectious as she practically bounced on her feet. "Absolutely! I can't wait to continue. And I have a feeling you're going to improve even more!"
Astron hesitated, his reluctance evident. "I'm not sure if this is necessary. Tomorrow, we will have classes."
Of course, this help was good, but he was still slightly uncomfortable with Maya around him. Even though her teaching skills were certainly good, and her guidance helped him improve, it was clear that the more he associated himself with her, the more things might get messy.
However, Maya's grin was infectious. "That's the spirit! Get a good rest tonight and be ready to tackle another session bright and early tomorrow morning. We've got a lot more to cover!"
It was as if she didn't hear what he was saying; she simply pushed what they were going to do tomorrow.
"Senior, didn't you hear me? I said we have classes tomorrow."
"So?"
"So, we won't have much more time to train."
"Then? Junior, now that you have accepted this lady's offer, you can't escape, right?"
"….."
"Right?"
"…."
"Right?"
"….."
"Right?"
"….Sigh…." Her enthusiasm seemed to break through his initial resistance. Astron let out a resigned sigh. "Alright, I'll be there."
Maya's smile practically lit up the room. "Great! You won't regret it, I promise. Rest well, Junior. Tomorrow is going to be another exciting day of progress!"
With that, Astron stood up and left the Elemental Room.
But, still, even under his cold face, there was a small feeling of satisfaction there.
The feeling of improving himself….
Chapter 78 - Small but not small help (7)
"This is really crazy," I mumbled to myself, looking at my hand. "Just as I thought, learning from her is the best choice I made."
SWOOSH
Looking at the mana threads in my hand, I could easily say this. It was as if I could finally feel the mana around me without the intervention of my [Lunar Enigma] trait.
Of course, this was just the basics, but even this was a good improvement considering how Astron was before.
I came from a world without mana, and the previous Astron also never felt mana, even if he was an awakened person; thus, this prowess was good.
"Then, I should continue my training."
With those thoughts, I grabbed my bow and started training once again.
"Activate Stage Two."
As the Artificial Intelligence of the academy training room replied, I raised my bow.
SWOOSH
And began.
*******
Emily sat in her small, dimly lit room, her chestnut hair cascading untamed over her shoulders.
Her tired, sapphire eyes were fixed on the laptop screen before her, its soft glow casting fleeting shadows in the otherwise simple and sparsely furnished space.
She was looking at the notice she put on the bulletin board.
"Still no replies, huh?"
She mumbled to herself. Of course, she also knew how bad their situation was and how unpromising it looked from the notice. But she didn't have a choice.
RING
At that moment, a call came from her bracelet. Opening up, she saw it was a call from her father.
With a weary sigh, she accepted the call with her father, whose anxious voice echoed from the device. He was probably calling her after the message she left yesterday. She knew he was busy too, so she didn't say anything.
"Yes, father. I asked a friend from the Academy, and he accepted my request."
"His rank is not that high, but I saw his talent with my own eyes. I think if I fought with him right now, he would beat me."
"Yes. He is a Hartley."
"Why?"
"Father, of course, I know all of those. But do you think I can find someone like him when his reputation has yet to bloom once again? And he is a good person. I am certain that he won't make a big issue out of it."
"I know. But we are desperate, and you know it as well. The dungeon we are challenging is impossible for us to clear right now since your-"
<…..>
"Since that time. So, we need every manpower we get, or we will lose the right to own this last dungeon. You know local guilds are already pressuring us; this is our last chance. You know, the money we got from selling our stocks is already spent on equipment for our guild members."
"I don't know who it is, but I am very grateful to them for giving us this last chance. Even if we can't make it, I will quit the academy and repay them back."
"Don't say that, father. It wasn't your fault. It is all because of that traitorous bastard."
<…..>
"I swear, once I get a hold of him, I am going to kill him."
"…..I am calm…..Anyway, Father, take care of yourself."
"I will after everything is finished."
As Emily ended the call, she closed her bracelet and threw herself onto her bed.
"This is our last chance. I need to make sure everything is okay."
And with a determined expression, she opened her laptop and started working on the dungeon and planning.
It was her and her father's guild's last chance, and she was not going to miss it.
******
"Junior, you are doing a lot better than yesterday."
I was inside the Elemental Chamber, looking at the senior who became my mentor on just a random day.
"I see," I replied. Certainly, after training with my bow and dagger without using my traits, I can say that my mana control improved.
And yesterday, I also realized one more thing. The reason why Firearms were not that well-received inside the Hunter community.
While I was training with my bow, I also tried to use my gun for a second. Since my bracelet wasn't detectable, I could carry my gun wherever I went, which is normally prohibited.
I tried to coat my gun and my bullets with mana in order to improve their efficiency like I did while using [Lunar Enigma].
And there, I realized it was impossible to do that.
Neither was I able to improve the efficiency of the gun by coating it with mana or the bullets. The moment the bullet was fired, the enhancement disappeared, and the gun worked as it normally would.
This was the difference between [Lunar Enigma] and using normal mana, and this also shows the importance of the [Traits].
"Your mana control had already reached a certain threshold. At this point, I can easily say that you finally met the requirements of being a hunter."
Those words were slightly cruel, but they are simply true. I was now on the same track with other people.
But I could see a faint smile on Maya's face as if she rather enjoyed me being on a low level. But it might also be a misunderstanding, though I doubt it.
"Anyway, the important thing is you're on the right track now, Junior. But remember, raw mana control is not the only thing important for us hunters."
With that, she guided me to the next phase of my 'training.' "We can now start one of the most important things for us—manipulation of elemental attributes." She stopped for a second and looked into my eyes.
"As you know, not everyone can use every element. It depends on one's aptitude and affinity. It is like a talent. For instance, some people are bad at mathematics, some people are bad at memorizing, etc. Elemental mana is the same; some people may be good at manipulating and feeling the fire, while others may not be able to do that."
She explained.
That was also how it was explained in the game. Even though no one has limitations on what element they can use, in the game, unless you increase your affinity with certain elements, the skills you would be able to use would be limited.
For instance, at that time, Senior Elara was using a bow while training, and she fired a wind arrow. This is a basic skill for archers, but without being good at using wind mana, you can't be fast enough to coat your arrow, and this will render the skill useless.
"For me, as a nature mage, I can work with all elements, but you might have a natural affinity for one or two." She paused for a moment before continuing, "Let's start with the basics. Watch closely."
CREAK
Maya extended her hand, her palm glowing with a warm, earthy light. Slowly, the ambient mana in the chamber seemed to respond, coalescing around her hand. The man took on an earthy texture, like clumps of rich soil.
THUD
The time she spent using earthen mana was low, as if it was natural for her. This was the idea behind the affinity.
"See this? This is earth mana," she explained as she gently tossed a small clump of it into the air. It hovered for a moment before dissipating.
Maya continued her demonstration, showcasing her mastery over each elemental attribute one by one. With a fluid grace, she manipulated the mana around her to take on the characteristics of different elements.
SWOOSH SWIRL
"This is fire, mana," she said as flames danced around her fingertips, casting a warm, fiery glow. The flames flickered and crackled, giving off heat that could be felt even from a distance.
SWISH
Next was wind mana, as she conjured a gentle breeze that ruffled her hair and caused the surrounding mana to sway like tall grass in a meadow.
SPLASH
Then came water mana, and she formed a delicate sphere of liquid mana that glistened and sparkled, resembling a perfectly rounded droplet of water.
After each display, Maya encouraged me to give it a try. However, as hard as I tried to mimic her techniques, nothing happened.
My mana remained formless and undifferentiated. It was clear that I lacked any natural affinity for these elements.
"I see…." I could see her nodding her head. "Junior, we are going to repeat the same thing as yesterday."
With those words, she came to me and grabbed me by my arm once again.
FLINCH
Resulting in me flinching. Her speed was fast even for a mage; this alone showed how strong she was compared to me.
'Sigh….It is still uncomfortable.'
Certainly, it was uncomfortable for other people to touch me, but since Senior Maya was not bothered by it and it was for my own good, I also didn't mind and endured the feeling.
"Now, try to feel it."
Maya's touch brought an immediate change. As she infused her elemental mana into my body, I could feel a distinct shift in the ambient mana within me. It was like a subtle, internal transformation that I hadn't experienced before.
When she did this for the first time yesterday, it made me feel the mana firsthand, and certainly, that helped me. Mana was not something that could be controlled by simply observing how others did it. I first needed to know how to feel it.
It was like watching the people playing football but without knowing how to move your legs. To learn it, you need first to feel your legs, and your brain needs to register those nerves, and then you can replicate how footballers moved.
This was the same.
"I will start with Earthen Mana."
First came the earth mana, and I felt a grounding sensation as if I were connected to the solid foundation of the world.
"Can you feel the difference between yesterday and now?"
"Yes."
"Good."
Next was the fire mana, and I sensed an inner warmth and energy, like a flickering flame deep within me.
Then came the water mana, and I experienced a slight fluidity, but at the same time, a sense of balance was there.
After that was the wind mana, and my mana became ethereal and light. It felt as if I could move it effortlessly, mirroring the element of air. It was swift, light but uncontainable, just like wind.
And lastly, it was a weird type of feeling.
"This must be your special mana, Senior," I spoke, feeling the soothing but destructive, calm but explosive mana inside.
"Indeed. But how did you know?" She asked, looking a bit surprised.
"Senior, everyone knows about you inside this academy. The Genius of Nature." Considering Maya's reputation and her special affinity, I knew from the game, guessing this wasn't that hard.
"T-this is a bit embarrassing."
"I see. I won't say it again then."
"N-no, it is not like that."
"Then?"
"J-just don't say too frequently."
"Okay."
"Anyway, Junior! Don't get distracted." Maya released her hold on me and increased the distance.
"Now, try to replicate the sensations of your mana just like yesterday." She said, looking at me with clear anticipation.
"Understood."
Closing my eyes, I focused on the sensation I just got. First, I tried to replicate the sensation of fire inside me, and I could feel my mana changing.
'Hmm? This?'
And it felt familiar.
Opening my eyes, I could see a faint color of red mana tendrils released from my fingers.
"This?"
"Wait, Senior Maya."
And then, changing the sensation from fire mana to water mana, I repeated the same thing.
'This?'
And this time, the color changed, from red to green….
'So, this is how I can change the color of my mana…..'
It was at that moment I finally managed to comprehend how to use different colors….