Chapter 231 - 'Reaping what you sow'
"Kindness does always return back, huh?"
I mumbled as I walked back from the training room. After all, the thing that I was holding in my hands was something that I wouldn't even dream of getting.
'Starbloom Essence, huh?'
It was a specific item that was very hard to get. It wasn't even an easter egg but an item for those pay-to-win players.
After all, what could be a better game for such players to become interested in? Not many people were talented enough to play the game Legacy of Shadows: The Hunter's Destiny. Therefore, there were many players who decided to take the overpowered path and finished the game with overwhelming stats.
To satisfy such players, there were many items that boosted the growth rate of the player, and Starbloom Essence was almost at the peak of one of those.
'To think Senior Maya would possess this item….'
Of course, I already knew what my weakness was. So, I have been searching for ways to increase my physical aspects and my physical talent limit.
My low endurance alone is already making things difficult for me; thus, I need something to cover it up.
However, this world doesn't work just like the game, and neither do I, the main character. I don't possess Ethan's background; therefore, I can't easily acquire such materials.
Especially considering even the lowest ranked ones cost around 100.000 Valer each.
'And they are not even that effective.'
Players could convert their real money to in-game currencies, so those prices in the game didn't matter that much for players.
But when that game becomes your reality, it suddenly becomes detrimental, and I have been suffering from that.
'Even though I had made quite a lot of money already, this is still not enough.'
In any case, the money problem would soon be solved, as the time for me to sell the stocks of Emily's guild is approaching.
'In any case, I should return back and consume the Starbloom Essence first.'
I thought. Senior Maya was incredibly generous with what she gave to me. Even now, if the students around me knew I possessed this herb, they would all attack me without hesitation and may even kill me.
After all, this herb cost around 10.000.000 Valer alone.
'I wonder what her background is.'
Since she didn't have an exceptional role in the game aside from being a nice senior and a good mentor with a tragic ending, she didn't have much of a role.
Thus, her background was actually not explained very well, and I also had no knowledge about it.
But from how she had easily handed me a Feywild Dreamplum and now Starbloom Essence, it was evident that her background was also far from being normal.
'Evergreen, huh? Why did I never hear about that name?'
It was weird. If such a huge family did exist, it was bound to create a name for themselves, but that didn't seem to be the case.
'I should message Horde for that.'
Things considering such general knowledge was Horde's job, but I also knew that trusting such people was not optimal. Especially considering the amount of information they would hold concerning me.
In any case, with those thoughts in my head, I reached my first location—the Arcadia Academy Store.
It was the place where I had bought the scrolls last time to hunt the MistWraith down. Normally, I disliked buying from this place as the prices here were too high compared to the Black Market, but I didn't want to wait right now.
"How can I help you?"
"I will buy some herbs."
"You may go to the right section of the store. On the fifth row, you will see Alchemy products."
"Thank you."
After entering the Arcadia Academy Store, I quickly made my way through the aisles, glancing at various items on display. The shelves were neatly organized, showcasing a variety of magical herbs, potions, and other mystical items.
Spotting the herb section, I selected two additional herbs that were ranked lower but were affordable – Whispering Willow Bark and Emberleaf Petals. I wanted to complement the effects of the Starbloom Essence, addressing both my low endurance and the need for enhanced mana absorption. These lower-ranked herbs would serve as catalysts in the preparation process.
Exiting the store with my purchases, I headed back to my room. The anticipation of using the Starbloom Essence was building up, and I was eager to implement my own method to maximize its effects.
Upon reaching my room, I meticulously prepared the herbs, crushing them to extract their essence.
"This method is still unknown to the world."
Normally, one would directly consume such herbs without even crushing them or boiling them. After all, any external effect could possibly cause a mismatch in the product, making it defective. This was especially true of mana herbs with high ranking, as their sensitivity and evolution would make them more specific.
The more one evolves, the more specific they become, which means they are also more prone to changes in the environment.
In any case, the method I was about to use was different from the general consumption method right now.
Rather than eating it directly and then meditating in a lotus position to absorb the effects, I was going to use a different approach.
The two herbs that I had bought from the store would perform now.
The Whispering Willow Bark would serve to open my mana pores, while the Emberleaf Petals would be crucial in closing them later. The combination of these herbs with the Starbloom Essence was my own concoction, a method that was known to make the enhancement process more effective.
The main idea was to make the Starbloom Essence directly anchored to your own body from the inside while using a specific bath heated to a specific temperature. When those specific conditions are met, the Starbloom Essence fragments to its most basic particles, and then it disintegrates into the water of the bath.
After that, if the person who consumed the Whispering Willow Bark entered the bath, those small particles disintegrated in the water would enter the body from the open pores.
However, there was a catch here. Since the Starbloom Essence was basically something that came out of the world and wasn't something that the body was accustomed to, it would be refused.
And the key part lay there. One needed to make sure that they were able to keep all the Essence entered in their pores while absorbing the remaining ones utilizing their mana to the maximum.
That was the catch.
Once you finished absorbing everything into your body, you would consume the Emberleaf Petals to close your pores, trapping the Essence into your own body to integrate it directly into yourself.
"Now, let's start," I muttered to myself.
The bath was already prepared, and its temperature was set to the specific conditions required for the disintegration of the Starbloom Essence.
Taking the Whispering Willow Bark in my hands, I carefully crushed it, releasing its essence into my mouth.
GULP!
The aroma was both soothing and invigorating, a stark contrast to the impending process. After all, what this herb did was make sure that your pores would open by exciting your body.
SHIVER!
I could feel my body shivering because of the sensations overlapping me.
With the crushed bark left on the ground, I stepped into the bath, the warmth enveloping me.
The pain was about to begin.
As I immersed myself in the water, I could feel the particles of the disintegrated Starbloom Essence reacting to the conditions. The water around me shimmered with a faint, ethereal glow.
"The Whispering Willow Bark should open the mana pores now." I reminded myself, focusing on the task at hand. The essence from the bark began its work, causing a tingling sensation as my mana pores started to open gradually.
The process wasn't without discomfort. The combination of the warm bath and the effects of the Whispering Willow Bark made my body feel unusually sensitive. It was as if every pore was awakening, ready to absorb the upcoming infusion of the Starbloom Essence.
As the mana pores opened, I felt a subtle connection forming between my body and the water. The essence in the bath and the essence within the Whispering Willow Bark were slowly aligning, creating a bridge for the next phase.
"Now, the Starbloom Essence."
With the mana pores open, I carefully poured the Starbloom Essence into the bath. The essence, freed from its physical form, mingled with the water. It was a breathtaking sight as the water transformed, pulsating with magical energy.
The pain surged, more intense than before. It felt like a thousand needles were simultaneously piercing every inch of my body. A searing heat enveloped me, and I could feel my consciousness waver as if teetering on the edge of a precipice.
"Grrrrrr...." I barely suppressed the agonized scream that tore through my lips.
The pain was beyond anything that could be classified as normal. It wasn't just physical; it felt as if the very essence of my being was being unraveled. Though, it wasn't my first time feeling pain in any case.
I bit my lips until they bled, desperate to ground myself in some form of reality. The metallic taste of blood mingled with the magical energies in the air, creating a surreal sensation. My muscles tensed involuntarily, and my vision blurred with each passing moment.
The process continued, the water around me becoming a conduit for the essence to enter my body. Every inch of my skin tingled with energy as I absorbed the powerful essence through my open mana pores.
'Not yet.'
The bathwater seemed to churn with otherworldly energy, responding to the tumultuous transformation taking place within me.
'Endure it.'
I clutched the sides of the bath, my knuckles turning white as the pain escalated to a crescendo.
'Endure it.'
For a moment, I felt like I was losing control. The room spun, and I could sense my insides turning out.
'You are still weak, endure it.'
Every nerve screamed in protest, and I wondered if I had underestimated the price of such enhancement.
'This pain is nothing….This pain is nothing compared to that time…..'
But deep within the chaos, a stubborn resolve anchored me. I had come this far, enduring the pain for the promise of strength.
The benefits, I reminded myself, outweighed the momentary suffering. To make those who had taken the world from my pay, such endurance was necessary.
'Until the end, I will endure every pain that is necessary.'
As the seconds stretched into an eternity, the pain reached a zenith, threatening to engulf me entirely.
'DON'T FUCKING LOSE YOUR CONSCIOUSNESS ON ME!'
I gritted my teeth, determined not to succumb to the overwhelming torment. It was a battle between my will and the relentless onslaught of the Starbloom Essence. But I knew that the more I endured, the more I absorbed, the stronger I would get.
Some people may have been born with the talent.
Some people may have been born with good backgrounds.
Some of them might be the main characters of the game….
The child of the plane….
The chosen ones….
For me, I didn't care about any of those. Even if those things weren't handed to me, so what?
Even if my body was lacking and weak, so what?
Even if my talent limit was lower, so what?
None of those matter. For me, there is one goal that is in front of me, and I am going to achieve it no matter what.
A surge of strength coursed through me, and I endured a little more.
Then, as if the universe itself acknowledged my tenacity, the water in the bath lost its vibrant color. The essence, once vivid and pulsating, had been completely absorbed.
"Haaaah….Haaaaaah....."
Gasping for breath, I clung to the edges of the bath, trembling with exhaustion. The pain, while still present, began to recede. I could feel the essence integrated into every fiber of my being.
GULP!
As I gulped the essence of the Emberleaf Petals to close my pores, I could feel the anchors inside my body.
The pain was still ongoing, but at this point, I no longer needed to retain my consciousness.
'Isn't that enough…..'
Just like that, I closed my eyes…..
Chapter 232 - 'Reaping what you sow' (2)
As Astron's consciousness faded into the depths of the transformative ritual, a soft, ethereal glow emanated from the necklace around his neck. The silhouette of a young girl materialized, gently rising from the pendant with a luminous presence.
Her voice, like a gentle whisper, echoed within the confines of Astron's mind.
"Why, brother? Why do you endure such pain?" she cried, her voice carrying a mixture of concern and sorrow. "I wish I could take away all your suffering, heal every wound, and shield you from the burdens you willingly bear."
Tears sparkled in her otherworldly eyes as she extended her incorporeal hands towards Astron's unconscious form. The green glow from the necklace intensified as if responding to her emotions. She gently caressed his face, her touch ethereal and filled with a deep, affectionate love.
"I have always been with you, and yet you persist in facing these trials alone," she murmured her voice a soothing melody. "Your strength is commendable, but I wish you would let me share the weight of your struggles."
As Astron lay there, vulnerable in the afterglow of the intense magical infusion, his sister continued to express her heartfelt sentiments.
"I know you seek power, but at what cost? Your pain resonates with me, and I long to ease it. You're not alone in this journey, brother. Let me be your solace."
The ambient magic within the room responded to her emotional plea, creating gentle ripples in the atmosphere.
The tears that had fallen from her eyes transformed into shimmering droplets of healing energy, each one carrying a desire to alleviate Astron's burdens.
The blood that was spilled from his mouth, the convulsing muscles, and many other scars….For each one of those scars, she shed a tear….
Her bright, ethereal eyes seemed to contain intense sorrow, but as she turned to face him, she couldn't help but smile gently.
With a soft sob, she whispered, "If only my essence could truly heal you, protect you from the harshness of this path you've chosen. But I am bound to this necklace, limited by the magical constraints that govern our existence."
She slowly hovered all around his body and then stood right in front of his face. She slowly pushed her forehead into his as she cupped his cheeks with her gentle hands.
As Astron's sister gently pressed her forehead against his, a final tear escaped her ethereal eyes. The tear, infused with a profound desire to heal, glided down her translucent cheek and dripped onto Astron's forehead. At that moment, a remarkable and unexpected event unfolded.
As the tear touched Astron's skin, a radiant pattern emerged on both of their foreheads. Astron's forehead glowed with an intricate pattern of a black crescent moon, while his sister's forehead shimmered with a pure white crescent moon. The celestial symbols seemed to intertwine, creating a connection that transcended the magical barriers separating them.
Astron's body, still immersed in the magical bath, responded to this enchanting phenomenon. The pain that had gripped him began to subside, replaced by a soothing warmth. The convulsing muscles relaxed, and the scars on his body started to glow faintly as if touched by the healing essence of the crescent moons.
His sister's eyes widened with surprise and awe, realizing that an unforeseen magic was at play. The gentle smile on her face widened, reflecting a glimmer of hope.
The magical glow on their foreheads pulsed in harmony, resonating with the essence of the tears shed and the shared connection between the two. It was as if the celestial symbols were weaving a bond that transcended their physical separation.
As the glow intensified, Astron's sister leaned in and softly whispered, "I will always be with you, brother," she vowed, her voice a gentle breeze. "In your dreams, in your moments of solitude, I will be by your side. May you find the strength you seek, and may the pain you endure lead you to a brighter future."
With those words, she closed her eyes, and one last tear rolled down her ethereal cheek. This tear, unlike the others, held a profound sense of tranquility and resolution.
As it fell, the magical glow on their foreheads reached its zenith, casting a gentle radiance throughout the room.
And then, just as it had started, her sister suddenly left his place without saying another word.
Leaving her young brother alone once again.
********
"….."
I slowly regained consciousness, the sensation of being submerged in the bath lingering. The water, once alive with vibrant magical energy, now cradled me in a calm and soothing embrace.
"Urghk-!"
Blinking, I felt disoriented, my body experiencing a strange refreshment. The intense pain that had engulfed me during the process had dissipated, replaced by a subtle warmth that permeated my being. No longer did my muscles tense involuntarily.
"Haaah….."
Taking a deep breath, I tried to piece together the recent events. And then soon, everything came into the place. I felt like my mind started working as intended immediately.
'So, it is finished.'
As the pieces of information were revealed one by one, I lowered my eyes to check my condition first.
'Good.'
And it was good. My body, which had always been my weakness, seemed to get better, even just by looks.
'My tone of skin also got a little brighter.'
My normally pale skin now was a little more colorful, as if the light had returned to me. Though it was still almost pure white, at the very least, I now looked like a healthy person just from the outside.
I cautiously attempted to stand, the renewed strength in my body catching me by surprise. As I rose from the bath, I could feel a newfound vitality coursing through me. The subtle warmth that enveloped my being hinted at the transformative effects of the ritual.
"Huh, this is... unexpected," I muttered to myself, testing the stability of my legs. The room seemed different, as if the walls themselves were pulsating with residual magical energy.
'No, wait?'
It didn't make sense for the room to suddenly change. Now that I had looked at it, I felt like I could perceive the world around me a little differently.
'What happened?'
Something was inherently different, and I could sense it.
"Ooops…."
Taking a step forward, I almost lost my balance. The surge in strength was more pronounced than I had anticipated.
"Hmm…."
My legs, accustomed to a certain level of endurance, struggled to adjust to this sudden enhancement. I quickly reached out to steady myself, my hands gripping the edge of the bath.
THUD!
And with one fast move, I exited the bath, getting rid of the water. As the cold air hit me, I shivered a little from the sensation. My already sensitive senses seemed to get a lot better now.
'So this is the effect, huh?'
There was a reason why Starbloom Essence was this expensive, and it would get a lot more expensive in the future considering the method.
Feeling a bit dirty from the magical bath, I decided to take a quick shower to clean myself. As the water cascaded down, I couldn't help but notice the changes in my body.
My muscles felt a little different, more potent than before. The enhanced strength was evident, and I couldn't help but flex my arms experimentally. The subtle changes were both fascinating and unsettling.
'This is definitely beyond what I expected.'
It was something that I couldn't expect even after considering the effect of the method. In my head, I had already made an approximate calculation as to what kind of strength I would get, but now it seemed a lot more than that.
'Something I didn't know was in the equation.'
And nothing happens without a cause. Actually, I somehow could guess the reason for that.
'It is about this body.'
Something….This body was different than others. Even though the status window didn't show it, I knew for a fact that there was something inherently different in this body.
No matter what, even Ethan wouldn't have such an increase in strength with his talent.
'Let's check the status window first.'
After covering myself with a towel and getting out of the shower, I sat on my bed, looking at the panel in front of me.
------------------------------------
▶Name: Astron Natusalune
▶Occupation: Weapon Master (level 1 --> 2)
▶Talent Limit: 6 --> 7.5
▶Passives:
Vengeful Bane
Bloodline Resonance
▶Attributes:
• Variable Attributes:
• Strength: 3.00 --> 3.25
• Dexterity: 3.60 --> 3.90
• Agility: 3.90 --> 4.20
• Constitution: 2.85 --> 3.25
• Intuition: 4.05 --> 4.35
• Magical Power: 4.35 --> 4.65
• Mana Capacity: 3.25 --> 3.65
▶Traits:
Perceptive Insight (Epic)(Unchanging)
Lunar Enigma (????) (Growth Type) (Stage 1)
Shadowborne (Legendary) (Growth Type)(Stage 1)
▶Arts:
Lethal Arsenal Ascendancy (????)(%22)
▶Skills:
Dash
Eyes of Hourglass
▶Body Imprints:
▶Bonds:
Aurora Raven (Rare)(Growth Type)
Celestalith, The Transcendent Eclipse
----------------------------------
As I carefully scrutinized the changes in my attributes, a sense of astonishment washed over me. The increase in strength far exceeded my initial calculations.
The variable attributes, especially agility and magical power, had undergone a more substantial enhancement than I had anticipated.
But even then, the most significant change was on the constitution part.
'It is no longer lagging behind compared to strength.'
I was not a type of strength; thus, it was acceptable for me to have a lower strength stat. But the constitution being that low wasn't something that was normal. Therefore, it was pulling me back.
But now, that was no longer the case.
'Finally.'
That meant my specific talent limit at my constitution stat had been increased differently, which corresponded to the fact that I could increase my constitution a lot more easily now. Seeing the talent limit increasing from six to seven point five, that seemed to be the case.
'But….As expected, this is not normal.'
It wasn't merely the effect of the Starbloom Essence; there was an additional factor at play, a mysterious element tied to the uniqueness of my own body.
However, that wasn't the end. There were two other very important changes.
'My Weapon Master class is increased to level 2.'
This meant my understanding of weapons increased, and I would get a lot better results while training with them.
Considering the fact that my class basically covered almost every weapon but lacked in growth speed, it was a very important and welcome fact.
After all, rather than focusing on one thing and mastering general, it had its own disadvantages. Else, it would be too overpowered.
In any case, the biggest and most important change wasn't the Weapon Master occupation but something else.
'Perceptive Insight is ranked up.'
It's a grade on the system window that went from Unique to Epic. And that was a very rare case since traits were very hard to improve if they were not a growth type.
'How come?'
Unless a very special and rare occurrence occurred, those traits would remain the same until one leaves this world, and that was like that in the game.
-------------------------------
Trait: Perceptive Insight
Grade: Epic
Description:
The Perceptive Insight trait has evolved to Epic, further enhancing the individual's heightened ability to observe and comprehend their surroundings with exceptional clarity and depth. Those possessing this trait now exhibit an even more acute sense of perception, allowing them to notice subtle details, patterns, and hidden aspects that often go unnoticed by others.
This evolved talent extends beyond mere observation; it grants the user an intricate understanding of the gathered information. The individual can decipher the intricate dance of mana with unparalleled precision, perceiving its subtle currents and resonances. Concepts entwined with mana once shrouded in complexity, unfold effortlessly before the user's discerning gaze.
---------------------------------
The moment I looked at the panel and read the details, I couldn't help but notice the reason for my increased perception of the world was actually related to my trait after all.
'Now, this is getting interesting.'
The moment mana entered the equation and my trait, I knew one thing for a fact.
'I can absorb everything.'
The knowledge is a meal for me from now on.
Chapter 233 - A Night Walk
3 a.m.
The room was filled with many luxurious ornaments.
Having already finished her daily tasks and training, Irina was lying on her comfortable sofa while playing the ChronoScape.
Now, she was already accustomed to playing that game and was using it as a passing time. After all, she also needed to have something to let her stress out of the game.
However, she was not as violent as Julia was compared to how she played.
"JUST BLOCK THE HOOK!"
Well, even she had the times when she couldn't even stand it.
"Just block the hook, man; I will heal you anyway."
After her initial defeat against Lilia on the weekend, she felt humiliated. Becoming a laughing stock for them made her feel the shame of being quite bad at the game.
However, she needed to acknowledge her weaknesses. When it came to this game, her mechanics weren't as good as others.
'But I am smart.'
However, she was smart, so she started playing in a different class.
'Support is the best.'
Leaving the crying to carry on the lane alone, she started wandering around the map, helping her other teammates. After all, that guy didn't block the hook? Why should she help him?
'DEFEAT'
Irina clenched her jaw as the defeat screen flashed across the ChronoScape. The words "Defeat" in bold red letters felt like a slap to her pride. She couldn't believe she had lost again, especially after she had switched to the support class, thinking it would be the solution to her gaming woes.
Her teammates had disappointed her, failing to meet her expectations. She could feel the irritation building up as she prepared to unleash her frustration on the carry who, in her eyes, failed to dodge that crucial hook and got one shot.
"Seriously? Can't you see a hook coming a mile away? I was healing you for crying out loud!" Irina vented her frustration in the in-game chat. The words flowed from her fingers in a heated blur as she criticized the carry for what she perceived as a glaring mistake.
As the flame war ignited in the chat, Irina's stress level only seemed to rise. The exchange of words became more intense, and soon, the defeat seemed less about the game and more about her need to assert herself.
The virtual battlefield transformed into a battleground of words, and Irina was determined not to back down.
"You bastard, who are you calling a pus*y, huh?"
"How dare you call me goth e-girl? Which point of me is a goth?"
"Fat, ugly basement rat? What the hell?"
"Go 0/1, IRL?"
The words stung, and Irina's initial attempt to defend herself turned into a futile struggle against the rising tide of toxicity. It was as if these people weren't even considering her human at all.
"Why do people get this rude over a game?" Irina wondered aloud, frustration lingering as she stared at the now-closed application.
"Sigh…I don't even want to play anymore."
With a sigh, she leaned back in her chair, contemplating the absurdity of the situation. In the grand scheme of things, it was just a game, and yet the words had cut deep. Irina shook her head, realizing the toxicity had taken a toll on her mood.
"I will just sleep."
Deciding that sleep might be the remedy for her frayed nerves, Irina attempted to lie down and close her eyes. However, the echoes of the virtual battlefield lingered, preventing her from finding solace in the quiet of her room.
"Again, huh?"
Restlessness settled in, and Irina found herself drawn to an old habit she had developed to escape her strict mother's watchful eye at home — taking a solitary walk at night. It was something she had been doing even from childhood.
Some may say it was just an entitled act of brattiness, but at the very least, she felt like she was free when she was walking alone, escaping the duties that were enforced to her by her mother.
The cool breeze and the solitude of the campus at 3 a.m. beckoned her, promising a temporary escape from the chaos of both the digital and real worlds.
Slipping into a pair of sneakers and grabbing a jacket, Irina quietly left her room.
SWOOSH!
The night air greeted her, crisp and refreshing. As she strolled through the deserted pathways, the weight of the online toxicity slowly lifted.
She felt herself cooling down. Her normally high body temperature because of her trait was also a little calmer now because of her cold. She wouldn't even need to take a jacket with her, but she just liked looking like an adult and a normal student.
The moonlight cast a soft glow on the empty roads, and the occasional rustle of leaves added to the serene atmosphere.
'I guess it is not just me.'
As she strolled, Irina couldn't help but notice the few students who lingered around at this late hour. Some were engaged in hushed conversations, while others were taking solitary walks like her.
After all, this was the Arcadia Hunter Academy. Awakened students with high talents gathered here; thus, they could go without sleep for at least two days.
The dimly lit corners revealed scattered groups of friends chatting away, their laughter echoing in the stillness of the night.
SLURP!
"Calm down…."
"You know, I can't…"
Amid the quiet ambiance, Irina's eyes caught glimpses of couples sharing intimate moments under the moonlight.
'What the hell are they doing?'
She asked herself, her cheeks getting a little red. Even though she was quite far away, their sounds still reached her eyes.
She felt the shame they didn't feel but at the same time…
'I wonder how it would feel?'
A pang of envy tugged at her as she observed them, feeling a sense of longing for the connection and warmth they seemed to share.
'No, what am I thinking?'
But what was more shameful was not the fact that she was thinking about those things, but the someone that came into her mind.
However, feeling ashamed of her actions, she decided to bury everything deep into her consciousness and hurried her steps, walking absentmindedly.
MEOW!
Suddenly, she noticed a pitch-black cat with rare purple eyes sitting in the middle of the path.
The feline's mysterious appearance struck a chord with Irina, reminiscent of that 'certain someone' she had tried to bury in her thoughts.
'That….'
She liked cats. Not only cats but cute little things in general. And this one before her looked cute as well, though she normally didn't like the color black.
Intrigued, she approached the cat with a cautious smile.
"Hey there, little one. You're quite the unique cat, aren't you?" Irina whispered, extending her hand to pet the mysterious creature.
"Meow!"
However, as she tried to make contact, the cat swiftly darted away, evading her touch with a graceful leap.
Surprised, Irina chuckled at the playful feline. "Well, aren't you a feisty one?" She continued to follow the cat, attempting to get closer. The rare purple eyes stared back at her, and for a moment, Irina couldn't help but compare those eyes.
"Well, you certainly look like him."
'A feisty cat…..Certainly suits him.'
The mysterious black cat, with its rare purple eyes, continued to elude Irina's attempts at closeness.
Despite its swift retreat, the feline didn't go too far and remained within her vision range. Intrigued and with a faint smile, Irina decided to follow the cat's whims, her earlier worries momentarily forgotten.
"Well, you're not getting away that easily," she teased, her tone light as she continued to stroll after the playful creature.
The moonlight cast gentle shadows on the deserted pathways, creating an ethereal ambiance as the cat led Irina in a smooth way.
As Irina followed the whims of the mysterious cat, they meandered through the moonlit pathways of the academy campus.
The cat's rare purple eyes were intriguing, so Irina kept following it until they reached the library. She watched as the cat gracefully entered through the open doors, curious as to what it was doing.
As Irina entered the library, the automatic doors whispered shut behind her, enclosing her in the hushed ambiance of the vast space.
"Huh, where did he go?"
The cat suddenly disappeared, leaving Irina standing alone in the quiet library.
"I want to play with it a little bit, though."
A tinge of disappointment washed over her as she looked around, wondering where the mysterious feline had vanished.
"Hmm?"
However, the fleeting sense of loss was quickly replaced by another discovery. Across the room, amidst the hallowed aisles, she spotted a figure hunched over a table.
As she drew closer, the dim light revealed the features of that 'certain someone' she had been trying to bury in her thoughts.
'What? Why is he here?'
Black hair framed his face, and his deep purple eyes were focused intently on the book in front of him. Long eyelashes cast delicate shadows on his cheeks as he immersed himself in whatever he was studying.
'What is he even doing here this late?'
As Irina observed the familiar figure engrossed in his studies, a mix of emotions surged within her. She hesitated, contemplating whether to approach him or maintain her distance.
'Should I just leave?' Irina thought, feeling a sudden pang of awkwardness. She wasn't accustomed to seeing this side of Astron – the focused and diligent student. It was a stark contrast to their usual banter and bickering.
Astron, immersed in his studies, suddenly looked up from his book, his gaze fixed on Irina. A small change of expression could be seen, and Irina flinched inwardly, realizing that he had already noticed her presence.
"Instead of just standing there," he said, his voice calm but carrying a hint of amusement, "you could come and sit."
'Tch.'
Caught off guard, Irina hesitated for a moment before nodding and taking the chair he gestured to. She couldn't quite meet his eyes, feeling a bit exposed under his perceptive gaze.
As she settled into the chair, Astron resumed his studies, and the atmosphere shifted into a comfortable silence. Irina stole glances at him, her mind racing with thoughts.
'This guy….Was he always this diligent?'
Of course, she knew he was good at studying, but if he was someone who would study this late, his grades would have been a lot better.
'He is not dumb either.'
And he was certainly not someone that was bad at studying. He was the one who found the special point, and his speed in solving formulas wasn't something to ignore. So, Irina firmly believed that Astron wasn't bad at studying.
That left a question in her mind. Why were his grades this low compared to others?
As Irina observed Astron engrossed in his studies, her eyes wandered to the scattered books around his desk.
The titles and covers hinted at an intense focus on mana manipulation and advanced techniques for hunters. The realization dawned on her that his commitment to understanding these complex magical concepts was profound.
'Mana manipulation... Advanced techniques...' she thought, scanning the titles. 'This is not just for show.'
The numerous bookmarks sticking out from the pages indicated that he wasn't merely skimming through the content.
Astron was diving deep into the intricacies of magical theory, absorbing knowledge with diligence that contradicted his outward demeanor.
But as a mage herself, she knew all those books were actually the general knowledge for mages. But Astron was not a mage.
He was an archer, a marksman, though he was also skilled at daggers. In any case, Irina thought his specification wasn't actually magic, so why was he studying it now?
Unable to contain her curiosity any longer, Irina finally mustered the courage to voice her question. "You," she began tentatively, "I can't help but wonder... Why are you studying magic? I mean, you're not a mage, and your specialization is in archery and daggers. What's the deal with all these mana manipulation books?"
Astron glanced up from his notes, meeting her inquisitive gaze.
He leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "Good question," he replied. "You already know, being a Hunter isn't just about mastering your weapon. Magic is intertwined with everything we do."
Irina frowned, not entirely convinced. "But you've never shown any interest in magic before. Why the sudden change?"
"Sometimes it is just a change of heart that opens our eyes."
Chapter 234 - A Night Walk (2)
"Sometimes it is just a change of heart that opens our eyes."
"I see."
Irina answered and nodded her head knowingly, but she couldn't help but curse inside. What the hell is just a change of heart supposed to mean anyway?
It was not like people randomly started doing things out of nowhere. Something needed to happen for that.
And magic wasn't a subject that one could easily touch and then get a grasp of it. Even though that girl Sylvie may be a little different, that doesn't mean everyone could be like her.
No, in reality, people who were talented at magic were a lot rarer than people who were talented at combat.
After all, one needed to be very good at calculating, have good spatial awareness, and be knowledgeable enough to use spells.
In most cases, all those traits combined were very hard to find, making the mages a very valuable asset.
Of course, that came with its own arrogance, but that was fine for Irina. In any case, because she refused to believe a composed guy like him would actually make a decision like that randomly.
As Astron continued to immerse himself in his studies, Irina's curiosity got the better of her. She couldn't resist the temptation to peek into the books scattered around his desk. To her surprise, the pages were filled with the basic blocks of magic, the very foundation of what she, as a mage, found second nature.
Her eyebrows furrowed in thought. 'Basic blocks of magic? Why is he starting from scratch?'
The basic blocks of magic were the theory for the starters, though most mages would rather skip it.
It is like the basics of swordsmanship, but most people tend to avoid those boring basics and want to start with the flashy techniques.
'He really is serious.'
And seeing him studying basic blocks was enough to convince that, this guy was really adamant on learning magic.
'Wait.'
At that moment, an idea came into her head. Something that she could use at this right moment.
Her gaze shifted from the books to Astron, and an idea began to take shape in her mind. A mischievous smile played on her lips as she considered the opportunity that lay before her.
"Hey, Astron," she interrupted her voice casual but carrying a hint of excitement.
He glanced up from his studies, meeting her gaze. "What's up?"
"I couldn't help but notice you're delving into the basics of magic," she said, feigning nonchalance. "Funny thing is, right now, you are standing right beside an expert in terms of basics. If you're interested, I could teach you a thing or two about controlling those basic blocks."
Astron raised an eyebrow, surprised by her offer. "You'd do that?"
Irina shrugged, suppressing a smirk. "Why not? We're comrades in this academy, and it seems like you could use some guidance in this magical realm. Besides, it might come in handy in your Hunter career, right?"
Astron considered her proposition, his usual calm demeanor masking any inner thoughts. "Why do you want to help?"
Of course, his first question was one filled with suspicion. This was him being himself, after all.
"Why not?"
"This is not a valid argument. Things don't need a reason not to exist. They need a reason to exist. One is the prerequisite of another, and it is not the other way around."
"….."
"So, give me the reason why you may want to help me?"
"Again, you and your reasons. Is it that weird for me to want to help my teammate?"
Hearing her mention, the teammate seemed to hold his thoughts as he stopped for a second.
'Heh, got you.'
From all these continuous interactions with Astron, Irina knew one thing for a fact. It was, if you give him enough a logical reason, he would always let you close, and if not, then he would close himself in his walls.
This had happened way often, so she was sure about it.
Finally, he nodded. "Alright, teach me."
Irina's smile widened, realizing that what she thought about him was correct. She inwardly felt a little happy at the fact that she could now turn the tables and make him indebted to her.
From the start of the academy, this guy had been the one holding the reigns and leading all the time, and she was getting tired of that a little bit.
And now she got the chance, and she was surely not going to miss it.
'Heh, you are playing in my palm.'
She smirked inwardly as she approached him, pulling her seat closer.
As Irina pulled her chair closer, she was ready to start. The books laid out the foundation of [Level 0] magic, the simplest form of magical manipulation.
Before delving into the practical aspect of teaching, Irina paused, looking at Astron with a thoughtful expression.
"Astron, do you know the fundamental difference between how a mage controls mana and how a regular Hunter does?"
Astron raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the question. "Enlighten me."
"Mages deploy everything according to formulas. It's a systematic approach, following predetermined rules and calculations. But for general Hunters like you, it's more about instinct and training, isn't it?"
Astron nodded in agreement. "True. We don't cast spells; we rely on our skills, instincts, and, of course, the weapons we've mastered."
That was how the Hunters and Awakened, in general, worked. They followed the guidance of their traits and skills, coupled with their arts.
In general, most hunters were not even flexible since they wouldn't learn the concept but rather memorize things.
Irina continued, "That's where these basic blocks come in handy. They're not formulas; they're like the building blocks of a language. You assemble them as needed and adapt them to your situation. It's more fluid and adaptable, which can complement your style as a Mage."
Astron absorbed the information. This was what he also already knew, but he didn't want to disturb Irina's flow by interrupting.
She clearly has her own way of delivery. Thus, he let her do as she pleased.
'It amusing to see her like that.'
He was also amused a little, though he would never admit.
"Let's start with something simple, then," Irina said, flipping to the first page of the [Level 0] magic section.
Many different words were written there.
「Create」
「Haste」
「Rotate」
「Anchor」
「Delay」
「Spread」
There were many others as well, but those were the ones listed on top of the page.
Irina pointed to the various words on the page. "These are the basic blocks for [Level 0] magic. Each one has a specific effect, but it's how you combine and deploy them that creates the actual magic. Think of it like constructing a sentence in a language only mages understand."
Astron observed the words, recognizing them from his previous encounters with magical theory. The simplicity of the blocks appealed to his pragmatic mindset.
"To make these blocks work," Irina explained, "you first need a base—a material infused with concentrated mana psions of elements. This becomes the canvas on which you'll paint your magic. The raw mana alone won't do much; it needs direction, a path. That's where these basic blocks come in."
Irina produced a small sphere of concentrated fire mana psions, each flickering with elemental energy. "This is your base. Now, pick a basic block and try combining it. Let's start with something easy, like 'Rotate.' Imagine what would happen if you apply this to the mana base."
Astron studied the vial and the word 'Rotate' on the page. He focused mentally, picturing the concept of rotation and its application to the raw mana.
The book was already clearly explaining to him how to control the mana psions that were created. How to create those pathways using the circuits in his body.
Irina noticed the genuine focus in Astron's eyes as he concentrated on the concept of rotation. "Now, let's try it practically. Use 'Rotate' on this pen," she suggested, pointing to a pen resting on the library table.
Without hesitation, Astron extended his hand towards the pen. His mind swiftly deployed the mental formula he had envisioned, and a subtle hum of energy surrounded the pen. Slowly, the pen started to rotate on its own accord, turning in a precise circle.
Irina's eyes widened slightly, impressed by the immediate success. "Well, you catch on fast. That's the essence of these basic blocks—they respond to your intent. The clearer your visualization, the more precise and effective the magic becomes."
Astron nodded, his calm demeanor undisturbed. "It's efficient."
"Exactly!" Irina grinned.
'It is just the basics, though.'
The basics of magic were actually something that would be taught at the academy in the second year already since it was something that was crucial in the future, but Astron didn't want to waste his talent.
However, the [level 0] magic was quite easy to master, so Irina didn't put much thought into it. A mage's talent wasn't solely on the part of calculation or knowledge, but also in their comprehension and their innate mana talents and potency of their magical power.
For instance, Irina wasn't necessarily the best calculator out there, but she was one of the strongest in her generation. That was because of her traits, her lineage, and her attributes, which all assisted her in that form.
Of course, she also had the instinct to control the magic in her flowing state of mind; thus, she was exceptional.
"Now, let's explore another one. Pick any from the list and try it on a different material. Experimentation is key to mastering these basics."
As Astron delved into trying various combinations, Irina shared small tips and tricks she had developed over her own studies.
Surprisingly, Astron not only grasped these insights immediately but also incorporated them seamlessly into his practice. His innate talent for quick comprehension and application became evident as he effortlessly picked up on the finer points of mana control.
Irina couldn't help but be impressed. "You catch on faster than I expected. Most struggle with these subtleties, but you seem to have an intuitive understanding."
Astron simply nodded, focusing on refining his control further. The library, once silent, now resonated with the hum of magic as the two delved deeper into the intricacies of [Level 0] magic.
As the night progressed, the moonlight filtering through the library windows gradually gave way to the soft hues of dawn.
Irina and Astron continued their study session in the quiet chemistry between the two growing with each second.
Eventually, the first rays of sunlight pierced through the windows, casting a warm glow on the books and the now-empty library. Irina stretched, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Well, look at that. We've pulled an all-nighter."
Astron, while maintaining his calm demeanor, looked at the final result. "It was productive, at least."
Irina chuckled, feeling a newfound connection with her teammate. "Who would have thought we'd end up studying magic together in the library at the crack of dawn? You owe me one, don't forget."
"I won't," he replied, nodding his head. "If you need anything from me, just call. I will be there."
"….." hearing his serious reply, Irina's smile widened. "I will use it well."
As they gathered their belongings and left the library, the campus had come alive with the activities of a new day. The solitude of the early morning was replaced by the bustling energy of students preparing for classes.