Chapter 481 - Monster
SWOOSH!
As I stepped into the room, I was greeted by the sight of Kael and Lyra, who were both lounging around, seemingly in the middle of a conversation. Lyra was the first to notice me, and she immediately perked up.
"Hey, you look a bit shinier now, for some reason," Lyra commented with a playful grin.
"Is that so?" I replied, raising an eyebrow. I hadn't realized any noticeable change in my demeanor.
"It is!" Lyra insisted, leaning forward with curiosity. "Did something happen? You seem… lighter, I guess? Happier?"
I paused for a moment, considering her words. It was true; I did feel more at ease, perhaps even content, after the conversation with Irina. But was it really that obvious?
"I guess I just had a good conversation," I said, keeping my response simple.
Lyra's eyes sparkled with intrigue. "A good conversation, huh? Who with? Don't tell me you've been chatting up a secret admirer?"
I shook my head, amused by her teasing. "Nothing like that. Just catching up with someone important. It's been a while since I've had the chance to talk freely, I suppose."
"So, you are not talking with us freely."
"Isn't that normal? You are not talking to me without hiding anything either."
"…."
Kael, who had been quietly observing the exchange, chimed in with a nod of approval. "Talking with someone you trust can do wonders for your mood. It's good to see you looking more relaxed."
It seems he wanted to change the flow of conversation, and that made sense. While these guys were not bad, they were also people whom I had recently met.
Lyra pouted slightly but then shrugged, accepting my point. "I guess you're right. Still, it's good to see you more at ease. We're all in this strange place together, so it's nice to have some normal conversations every now and then."
'Your conversations are definitely not normal.' I wanted to say, but I refrained from doing so. Since that would definitely upset her, and there was no reason to do such a thing.
"You definitely thought something rude."
"Please don't assume things on your own."
"Humph….Kael, he is bullying me."
Kael chuckled, shaking his head. "I don't think that's bullying, Lyra. If anything, he's just being his usual self."
Lyra crossed her arms, still pouting but clearly not too upset. "You're supposed to be on my side, Kael."
"I'm on the side of truth," Kael said with a grin. "And the truth is, you're just fishing for reactions."
Lyra finally broke into a smile, her pout fading. "Fine, fine. I'll let it slide this time. But Astron, you owe me a proper conversation one of these days."
"We'll see about that," I replied, keeping my tone deliberately vague.
Lyra rolled her eyes but laughed. "I'll take that as a yes."
Kael just shook his head, a smile still on his face. "Well, at least we're all in good spirits. Let's keep it that way—tomorrow's going to be another tough day, I'm sure."
'Well….It will indeed be a rough day….Dakota is returning after all.'
*******
The training hall was filled with the sound of clashing strikes as Astron and Dakota moved in a blur of motion, their bodies executing the [Gale Stance] with precision and power. Sweat dripped down Astron's face, but his focus remained unbroken as he met Dakota's attacks head-on, his strikes more fluid and controlled than ever.
Dakota's eyes gleamed with approval as she matched him strike for strike, pushing him to his limits. Each clash was a test, and each time, Astron adapted just a bit faster and moved just a bit sharper.
Finally, Dakota stepped back, signaling the end of the session. She looked at Astron, a hint of a smile on her face. "You're getting better, Astron. I can see the improvement."
Astron nodded, catching his breath but feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thank you, Master."
Dakota wiped the sweat from her brow, her expression serious but with a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. "If you keep this up, we can start training a new stance tomorrow. You've got the [Gale Stance] down pretty well."
Astron's eyes lit up. After all, he was itching to learn more. "I'm ready."
Dakota chuckled, her voice light but filled with pride. "We'll see about that."
With that, she gave him a nod of approval and gestured him to come once again. "Let's continue."
SWOOSH!
And Astron dashed forwards.
********
Tianna stood with Astron at the base of a towering wall in the training area, her expression serious. "Today, Astron, I'm going to teach you a new spell that will be crucial for your advanced training. It's a spell that allows you to stick to walls, enabling you to climb without falling. However, maintaining this spell will drain your mana quickly, so control is key."
She demonstrated the spell, her hands glowing with a soft blue light as she pressed them against the wall. Her feet followed, and within moments, she was walking vertically up the surface as if it were flat ground. "The spell works by using your mana to create a magnetic-like force between you and the wall, keeping you adhered to the surface.
It's effective, but the mana consumption is high, so you'll need to practice managing your energy."
Tianna descended the wall effortlessly, landing back on the ground beside Astron. "Now, it's your turn. Focus on channeling your mana to your hands and feet, and try to maintain a steady flow as you climb."
Astron nodded, his eyes narrowed in concentration. He mirrored Tianna's movements, pressing his hands against the wall as he channeled his mana. Slowly, he felt the familiar pull of the spell take hold, and he began to ascend the wall. The first few steps were smooth, but he quickly noticed the rapid drain on his mana reserves.
As he continued climbing, he felt the strain of maintaining the spell. The mana consumption was indeed intense, and the longer he held the spell, the more unstable his grip became. Halfway up the wall, Astron paused, his mind racing as he analyzed the situation. He could feel the spell's pull weakening as his mana fluctuated.
'This spell… it's effective but flawed,' he thought, his grip on the wall wavering. 'It relies entirely on using mana to cling to the surface, but the drain is too high to maintain for long periods.'
An idea began to form in Astron's mind as he considered the properties of the spell. 'What if I were to use adhesion instead? Something that doesn't rely so heavily on mana consumption…' He could almost see the possibility of a different approach that might allow for a more efficient use of energy.
Carefully, he began to adjust the flow of mana, experimenting with altering the spell's structure. Instead of simply using mana to create the force, he focused on manipulating the natural adhesion properties of his energy, trying to create a bond that required less active maintenance.
Slowly, he felt a change. The pull became more stable, and the drain on his mana lessened. Astron's grip on the wall grew more secure, and he continued his ascent, this time with a more controlled and efficient use of the spell.
Tianna watched from below, her eyes narrowing as she sensed the shift in Astron's mana flow. 'What is he doing?' she wondered, intrigued by the sudden change in his climbing technique.
When Astron finally reached the top of the wall, he looked down at Tianna, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Instructor, I think I've found a way to improve the spell."
Tianna raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Already? What did you discover?"
Astron climbed back down, explaining as he went. "Instead of relying solely on mana to create the force, I tried using the adhesion property of my energy. It seems to require less mana and provides a more stable grip."
Tianna's eyes widened slightly as she processed what he was saying. "You… modified the spell while climbing?"
Astron nodded. "I'm not sure if it's perfect yet, but it feels more efficient. I'll need to experiment more, but I think this could be a better way to approach wall-climbing techniques."
Tianna could only shake her head in amazement.
******
Stealth Training, 12 A.M., Eighth day of training
"You're ready for the seventh stage?" Kennet asked, a mixture of curiosity and anticipation in his voice.
"Yes," Astron responded confidently.
"You look confident. But I would not advise you to do so," Kennet cautioned, his tone firm.
"Why?" Astron inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"You are not ready. You've grasped the essence, but your body has not. You will need one more day," Kennet explained, his gaze steady.
"I see. If that is what the instructor advises, then I have no reason to refuse," Astron replied, accepting the wisdom in Kennet's words.
"It is good that you are not arrogant," Kennet remarked a hint of approval in his voice.
With that, Astron nodded, mentally preparing himself for the additional day of training, knowing that his readiness was just within reach.
'It seems he will be able to finish the training this week. Even if that was expected, it was still one week earlier than usual. And his main focus was not even this course.'
*******
Astron approached the training room, his mind running through possible passwords. 'It could be Break the Limits,' he thought as he deciphered the psions.
"Surpass Your Limits."
The answer was different once again. He let out a small sigh, shaking his head. "Still not quite there," he muttered as he entered the room.
Reina stood waiting, her posture relaxed but her gaze intense. "Let's not waste time," she said, her tone brisk. She conjured a new set of psion lines, this time even more intricate, with multiple higher-ranked threads weaving through each other. "Today, you'll focus on handling the most complex combinations yet."
Astron nodded, immediately extending his mana threads. He had grown accustomed to the challenge, but today's task was another step up. The psion lines were more tightly interwoven, demanding even more precise filtering and assimilation.
*******
"Welcome, Trainee Astron Natusalune. Beginning body training session focusing on Everchanging Glyph optimization."
"Commencing with the heavy ropes."
"Trainee Astron's body limits are pushed to 85%. Increasing the intensity."
Another day ended just like that.
Chapter 482 - Monster (4)
Astron stood in the center, his mind focused and ready for the day's challenge. Today was different—he could feel it in the air, an electric anticipation that set his nerves on edge.
Dakota entered the arena with her usual confident stride, her expression serious but tinged with a hint of excitement. She had promised something new today, and Astron was eager to learn.
"Today, we're moving on to the [Storm Stance]," Dakota announced, her voice firm and clear. "This isn't like the [Gale Stance]. If [Gale Stance] is about flawless, smooth transitions, [Storm Stance] is more of a blast—a series of powerful, explosive attacks designed to break through defenses. It's about harnessing your mana and virtual core to their full potential."
As she had mentioned before, the [Tempest Fang] style had three different stances. The first stance was the [Gale Stance], which he had been practicing for a while.
And the second one was the [Storm Stance].
Astron's eyes narrowed with focus.
He had mastered the fluidity of the [Gale Stance], but he knew that this new stance would require a different mindset—one that focused on power and impact rather than precision and grace.
That was what Dakota had said before, after all.
"The [Tempest Fang] has three main stances. Each stance serves a different purpose and strategy. The first stance is called [Gale Stance]. It focuses on quick, successive strikes to overwhelm your opponent. The second stance is [Storm Stance], which emphasizes powerful, explosive attacks designed to break through defenses.
The third stance is [Cyclone Stance], a more advanced form that combines speed and power to create a relentless assault."
Those were the words that she had spoken when she started teaching him the concept of virtual core.
Dakota stepped forward, her stance shifting into the [Storm Stance]. Her body was slightly more grounded, her muscles tensed and ready to unleash the stored energy. "Watch closely," she instructed. "The key to [Storm Stance] is not just physical strength but how you channel your mana through your virtual core. You need to focus on gathering your energy and releasing it in controlled bursts."
She demonstrated with a powerful forward strike, her fist exploding through the air with such force that it sent a shockwave rippling across the hall. The floor beneath them trembled slightly, a testament to the raw power behind the move.
Astron's eyes widened as he watched. The difference was immediately clear—this stance was about overwhelming force, a direct assault that left no room for subtlety.
"Feel the difference?" Dakota asked, a hint of a smirk on her lips. "This isn't about finesse. It's about breaking through whatever stands in your way. Now, your turn."
Astron took a deep breath, centering himself. He closed his eyes briefly, focusing on his virtual core, feeling the mana pool there, gathering strength. He could feel the energy, potent and ready to be unleashed. Opening his eyes, he shifted into the [Storm Stance], grounding himself just as Dakota had.
With a focused breath, he channeled his mana into his strike, visualizing the energy blasting outwards. His fist shot forward, and though the impact wasn't as devastating as Dakota's, he felt the power behind it—the force that was different from the fluid grace of the [Gale Stance].
Dakota nodded, her approval clear in her eyes. "Not bad for a first try. But you're holding back. You need to let the mana flow more freely, release it in bursts. Think of it as controlled chaos—power that's harnessed and directed, but not restrained."
Astron nodded, understanding the concept. He prepared himself for another attempt, this time pushing harder, allowing the mana to surge through him. He struck out, feeling the explosive force as the energy released, more potent than before.
"Better," Dakota said, her tone filled with encouragement. "But don't just think about the strike—think about the buildup. The [Storm Stance] is all about momentum. Gather your mana, let it build, and then release it in a powerful blast. Every strike should feel like it's breaking through something."
They spent the next hour drilling the movements, Dakota guiding Astron through the intricacies of the stance. She showed him how to utilize his virtual core to enhance the explosive power of each attack, how to ground his body for stability, and how to maintain control even when unleashing such force.
Astron practiced relentlessly, feeling the difference in every strike. The [Storm Stance] was intense, each movement demanding a precise balance of power and control. His body burned with exertion, but he didn't falter—he embraced the challenge, pushing himself to tap into the full potential of his mana.
Finally, after a particularly powerful strike that sent a noticeable shockwave across the hall, Dakota called for a pause. She looked at Astron, a proud smile on her face. "You're getting the hang of it. The [Storm Stance] does not suit you too much, as you are more of a swift fighter and strength-reliant one.
But still, that does not mean it will not help you, as it seems you have recently got a good advancement in terms of mana capacity —there's a raw power there that just needs a bit more refining. Keep practicing, and soon, you'll be able to break through any defense."
Astron, though breathless and drenched in sweat, nodded. "I'll keep pushing."
Dakota's smile widened. "I have no doubt you will. Now, just as per usual, I am going to leave you alone to practice by yourself. The manual is here as well."
"Understood."
Just like that, Dakota had left him there, leaving him to train.
******
Tianna entered the training area early, expecting to begin the day's session with Astron.
As she approached the towering wall they had used the previous day, she paused, surprised to see Astron already there.
He was climbing effortlessly, his movements smooth and controlled, as if he had been practicing for hours.
She watched in silence, her curiosity piqued. It was clear that Astron had not only refined the spell but had fully integrated his new approach into his training.
What intrigued her even more was how fluidly he moved, with no signs of strain or depletion. 'He's been at this for a while,' Tianna thought, noting the ease with which he scaled the wall. 'But he doesn't look fatigued at all.'
Unable to resist her curiosity, Tianna reached into her pocket and pulled out a small device designed to measure magnetic field levels. It was a device to test the strength of the spell so that they could be sure that it would work.
She aimed it at Astron as he continued his climb, expecting to see the usual readings associated with the spell.
The device flickered for a moment before showing a result that made Tianna nod her head. There was no significant magnetic activity. In fact, the readings were almost negligible. 'He's not using magnetic energy at all,' she realized. 'He really did what he said… He's using adhesion instead of the traditional method.'
To be frank, it was not that they had never thought of using different ideas to create the spell. They also thought of using adhesion property.
But while creating such a spell, one needed to understand the targeted audience. Not everyone who would be learning spells would be talented at manipulating mana and controlling the circuits.
And for properties like 'Adhesion,' where things rather happened in a microenvironment, much more precise control was needed to target the correct molecules.
However, that also meant that the user would be talented at quick calculations and understanding three-dimensional environments and visualization, and not everyone would possess such a talent.
That was why the spell would use [Magnetic Fields] as it did not require as precise control as it was needed.
That was why Tianna was amazed. The fact that Astron was able to do that meant he possessed those talents.
'Well… now that I think about it,' Tianna mused, her eyes following Astron as he effortlessly continued his climb, 'he had already shown that he possessed those talents… Maybe I should have expected it.'
She watched as Astron reached the top of the wall, pausing for a moment before descending with the same fluid grace. His mana levels, which should have been noticeably depleted after such an intense session, appeared nearly untouched. It was clear that his method was not only working but was far more efficient than the traditional spell.
'This boy…' Tianna thought, shaking her head in a mixture of awe and respect. 'He's not just talented; he's exceptional. To innovate so quickly and with such success… It's no wonder he's advancing at this rate.'
As Astron landed softly on the ground, Tianna approached him, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Astron, I checked your spell work with the device. There's almost no magnetic activity. You've fully transitioned to using adhesion, haven't you?"
Astron nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Yes, Instructor. It's more stable and uses far less mana. I can keep this up for much longer without exhausting myself."
"I see." Tianna nodded. "It seems you have completed this stage as well."
"It sort of happened," Astron replied modestly, though the progress he had made was anything but ordinary.
Tianna regarded him for a moment, her expression turning serious. "Then… I have only one last thing left to teach you."
Astron waited in silence, sensing the weight behind her words.
"But," Tianna continued, "let's not do that today since you've already tired yourself out. And the seventh stage… It will be a little bit different."
"I see," Astron acknowledged, understanding that the final lesson would likely push him beyond his current limits.
"For now, I'm just going to let you use the training grounds for self-training. Is that okay?" Tianna asked, her tone lighter.
"I don't mind."
"Good," Tianna said, nodding with approval. "Then, I will start the preparations."
*******
Astron approached the training room, his mind already analyzing possible passwords. 'It could be. Embrace the Unseen,' he thought as he deciphered the psions.
"Beyond the Horizon."
The answer was different once again. He let out a small breath, his eyes narrowing in thought. "She's keeping me guessing every time," he muttered as he entered the room.
Reina was waiting, standing in the center of the room with an air of quiet authority. "Today is crucial," she said, her voice steady. She conjured a new set of psion lines, more intricate and complex than any before. "This will be your final test with these higher-ranked threads. You'll need to combine everything you've learned."
Astron nodded, his focus sharp as he extended his mana threads. The psion lines before him were dense and tightly woven, each one resonating with a different rhythm. He had no room for error.
He began the process, filtering out the ambient noise and honing in on the unique flows of each thread. The challenge was immense, but Astron's movements were precise and controlled, his earlier training guiding him through the complexities.
Reina watched intently, her eyes narrowing as she observed his every move. 'This is the culmination of all his efforts,' she thought. 'If he can master this, he'll be ready for what lies ahead.'
The room was filled with a subtle hum as Astron worked, the ambient mana synchronizing with his own. He filtered, assimilated, and wove his energy through the psion lines, his pace quickening with each successful connection.
In what seemed like a shorter time than expected, Astron completed the task, his breathing even as he turned to face Reina. "It's done," he said, his voice calm but filled with quiet satisfaction.
Reina met his gaze, a rare smile touching her lips.
"You've exceeded my expectations, Astron. Tomorrow, we'll move on to something new—something far more advanced. Something that you have been expecting, most likely."
Astron nodded, a spark in his eyes. "I'm ready."
Chapter 483 - Monster (3)
The air in the training hall crackled with energy as Astron stood in the center, focused and ready for another intense session.
The previous day's introduction to the [Storm Stance] had left him eager to learn more.
Dakota entered the arena with her usual confident stride, but there was an extra spark in her eyes this morning. "Today's going to be a bit different, Astron," she began, stopping in front of him. "We're going to focus on refining your control over the [Storm Stance], specifically how you expel your mana using different strikes."
Dakota gestured for him to watch closely. "In the [Storm Stance], it's not just about releasing mana in a single, powerful blast. There are different ways to channel that energy, each with its own purpose and method of circulation. I'm going to teach you five specialized strikes, each one with a unique way of circulating and expelling your mana.
But to pull these off, your control over your virtual core needs to be precise."
She took a deep breath, her expression serious as she demonstrated the first strike. "The first one is called [Thunderclap]." She moved into a stance, grounding herself firmly. "With this strike, you gather your mana in your virtual core and then release it all at once in a sudden burst. The key here is to channel the energy into a single point, creating an explosion of force."
–BOOM!
Dakota's fist shot forward, and the air around her seemed to shudder as she released the pent-up mana in a single, devastating blast. The force of the strike sent a shockwave rippling through the hall, the impact echoing like thunder.
Astron watched, understanding the technique but recognizing the difficulty. "The timing needs to be perfect," he muttered to himself, already visualizing how to execute it.
"Exactly," Dakota said, catching his words. "The mana needs to be released in one precise moment. No hesitation, no leakage. Your virtual core control is critical for this one."
She moved on to the next strike. "The second is [Typhoon Burst]. This one's different. Instead of a single point of impact, you're going to circulate the mana throughout your limbs, building up momentum and then expel it in a sweeping motion. It's more of an area attack, meant to clear multiple opponents."
Dakota demonstrated, her body spinning fluidly as she gathered her mana. As she completed the motion, she released the energy in a wide arc, the air around her shimmering with the force of the attack. The strike created a powerful gust that spread out in all directions, mimicking the destructive force of a typhoon.
"[Typhoon Burst] is all about control and flow," Dakota explained. "You need to keep the mana circulating evenly until the moment you release it. It's perfect for when you're surrounded or need to break through a group."
Astron nodded, already visualizing how he would adapt his movements for this technique. "I'll need to balance the flow carefully, making sure the energy spreads evenly."
"Exactly. Now, the third strike is [Quake Fist]." Dakota's stance shifted again, this time lowering her center of gravity. "This one is all about grounding. You channel your mana into the earth through your legs and then release it through your strike, creating a shockwave that travels through the ground. It's a great way to destabilize your opponent."
She stomped the ground, her mana flowing into the earth. As she punched forward, the ground beneath them trembled, a ripple of force spreading out from the point of impact. The floor cracked slightly, showing the sheer power of the technique.
"[Quake Fist] requires you to be fully grounded," Dakota said. "Your connection to the earth needs to be solid, and your mana control needs to be steady. It's not just about the punch—it's about how you direct the force."
"The fourth strike is [Tempest Wave]. This one is similar to [Typhoon Burst] but more focused. You're going to channel your mana into a wave that travels through the air, cutting through anything in its path. It's perfect for long-range attacks."
She moved into the stance, gathering her mana in her virtual core before releasing it in a powerful, focused wave that shot through the air like a blade of wind. The force of the strike cut through the air with a sharp whistle, demonstrating its precision and power.
"[Tempest Wave] is all about focus," Dakota explained. "You need to keep the energy contained until the moment of release, then direct it in a straight line. It's like wielding a blade of wind."
"And finally, the fifth strike is [Stormbreaker]. This is the most powerful of the five. You're going to gather all your mana into your virtual core, compress it, and then release it in a massive, all-out attack. It's a finishing move, meant to break through even the toughest defenses."
Dakota took a deep breath, centering herself. She gathered her mana, compressing it into her virtual core. Then, with a powerful shout, she released the energy in a devastating strike that sent a shockwave through the entire hall. The force was immense, the air around her vibrating with the sheer power of the attack.
"[Stormbreaker] is all or nothing," Dakota said, her voice serious. "You put everything into this one strike. It's risky, but when done right, it's unstoppable. Your control over your virtual core needs to be perfect—you can't afford to waste any energy."
Astron watched, his mind racing with possibilities. These strikes were powerful, but they required a level of control and precision he had only begun to master.
'Interesting….So, that is what she meant by Virtual Core control.'
Astron thought to himself.
In a way, if the [Gale Stance] was more focused on the fluidity of body movements, this one was focused on the fluidity of the mana.
Dakota stepped back, giving him space. "Now it's your turn, Astron. Start with [Thunderclap] and work your way through the strikes. Take your time—focus on your virtual core, control the flow of mana, and release it at the right moment."
Astron nodded, his expression one of intense focus. He closed his eyes, centering himself and visualizing his virtual core. He could feel the mana gathering, ready to be unleashed. Opening his eyes, he moved into the [Storm Stance] and began with [Thunderclap].
His fist shot forward, the mana bursting out in a powerful strike. It wasn't as strong as Dakota's, but it was a solid start. He continued, moving through each of the five strikes—[Typhoon Burst], [Quake Fist], [Tempest Wave], and finally, [Stormbreaker]. Each one required a different approach, a different way of channeling and releasing the energy.
By the end of the session, around one hour later, Astron was drenched in sweat, his muscles burning from the effort.
But he had made progress—each strike was stronger, more controlled than the last. It was also thanks to Dakota's feedback. While he instantly absorbed the knowledge, there were still some minor body adjustments that he needed to make, and Dakota's help was crucial.
Dakota watched with a mixture of pride and approval. "Not bad, a solid start," Dakota mumbled as she looked into Astron's body. "For the time being, you will practice on your own."
She left Astron to train further after saying that.
*******
As Dakota left, she had expected him to train those strikes and virtual core control more.
But Astron's thoughts were elsewhere, drawn to the nuances he had noticed while practicing the [Storm Stance].
The way the mana moved through his body, the methodical yet powerful flow—it had sparked something within him, a realization that made his heart race with excitement.
While he had trained with the virtual core, he had always been aware of its limitations. It simplified the process of mana circulation, yes, but it also came at a cost. The processing speed of his energy was significantly slowed, and the more complex the technique, the more noticeable the delay.
It was as if the centralized control of mana was creating a bottleneck, restricting the full potential of his movements.
But during the [Storm Stance], something had clicked. Each of the specialized strikes—[Thunderclap], [Typhoon Burst], [Quake Fist], [Tempest Wave], and [Stormbreaker]—had followed a systematic method of mana circulation. The energy flowed through his body in precise patterns, each strike utilizing similar points but in different directions and intensities.
'What if…' Astron thought, his mind racing. 'What if instead of relying on a single virtual core, I created multiple, smaller judgment points? Nodes that could control the flow of mana more efficiently spread throughout my body.'
The idea was tantalizing. If he could create these smaller control points, the mana wouldn't have to travel as far or wait for commands from a single location.
It could be managed more locally, allowing for faster, more precise control. His movements could become smoother, and his strikes were more powerful and immediate.
He closed his eyes, focusing inward, visualizing his body's internal energy pathways. The virtual core he had been using felt clunky, centralized, and slow.
He began to dismantle it mentally, breaking it down into smaller segments, each positioned at key points in his body—his shoulders, elbows, knees, and the center of his chest.
He imagined these points as miniature cores, each capable of processing and directing mana on its own.
The energy would flow through his body like a network, each node working in harmony with the others, reducing lag and increasing responsiveness.
Slowly, he began to circulate his mana through these new nodes, feeling the difference immediately.
The energy moved faster, more fluidly, without the bottleneck he had experienced before. His body felt lighter and more responsive as if a weight had been lifted.
Astron's eyes snapped open, but something was different. His purple eyes, usually sharp and focused, now carried a faint glimmer as if reflecting a light from another world.
'…..This is….?'
Inside his mind, a scene began to unfold—a vivid vision under the bright moonlight.
A solitary silhouette moved with deadly grace across a desolate landscape. The figure's every step was smooth and precise, yet filled with an ominous power. The air around him seemed to hum with tension, each movement calculated and lethal.
Astron watched, entranced, as the figure executed a series of movements that were both familiar and alien to him. The silhouette's hands and body were covered in a translucent energy, its edges sharply defined.
Though the color of the mana was transparent, its presence was undeniable—a force that seemed to bend reality around it.
This wasn't just any combat technique; it was a manifestation of something far deeper, something primal and instinctive. Astron could feel the connection, the resonance between this vision and the breakthrough he had just experienced.
His combat art, Lethal Arsenal Ascendancy, was reacting to his newfound understanding and control over mana.
The figure moved with an eerie silence, each strike more powerful and precise than the last. The energy around him pulsed and shifted, adapting seamlessly to his every command.
Astron recognized the fluidity of the [Gale Stance] and the explosive power of the [Storm Stance], but there was something more—an integration of these stances into a seamless whole, elevated by the perfect harmony between body and mana.
As the vision continued, the silhouette launched into a series of attacks that seemed to defy the very limits of what Astron thought possible.
Each strike was executed with a lethal precision that left no room for error. The energy around the figure shifted in perfect synchronization with his movements, creating a deadly arsenal that was both overwhelming and inescapable.
Astron's eyes never left the figure as he absorbed every detail, every subtle shift in the figure's technique. This was the pinnacle of what he had been striving for—a level of mastery where every aspect of combat was honed to perfection, where the distinction between the fighter and the energy they wielded blurred into nothingness.
'Lethal Arsenal Ascendancy…' Astron thought, his mind reeling from the realization.
This was what his combat art was revealing to him—a path forward as a [Martial Artist].
'Translucent Energy….That is….
His thoughts paused as he recalled the various forms of moon mana he had learned about, each corresponding to different phases of the moon and imbuing unique qualities when wielded.
'The energy of the Waning Crescent Moon...'
And now, the form of mana he needed to use for such blasting strikes materialized in his head.
'Just the raw energy and most primal form with only increasing the strength of the attack and the body.'
At that moment, Astron discovered a new energy and a method of controlling his [Lunar Mana].
Chapter 484 - Monster (4)
Astron's eyes snapped open, the faint glimmer in his purple irises fading as he returned to reality.
His heart was pounding, not from exertion but from the vivid vision that had just unfolded in his mind. The memory of the silhouette moving under the moonlight, the translucent energy that radiated with deadly precision—it all felt so real, so attainable.
For a moment, he stood still, processing the revelation. The breakthrough he had experienced wasn't just about the virtual core; it was something far deeper, something connected to his very essence as a [Martial Artist]. The vision had shown him a path forward, a way to integrate everything he had learned into a new form of combat.
'Lethal Arsenal Ascendancy…' he thought, the name of his combat art echoing in his mind. The vision had revealed the potential locked within it, a level of mastery that transcended anything he had known before. And it wasn't just about the stances—it was about the energy he wielded, the moon mana that pulsed through his veins.
He closed his eyes once more, focusing inward, feeling the familiar surge of his lunar mana. But this time, he didn't let it flow through the usual virtual core.
Instead, he began to mentally map out the multiple judgment points he had envisioned, positioning them at key locations throughout his body.
He imagined the energy flowing not from a single source but from a network of nodes, each one controlling a specific part of his body. The memory of the translucent energy from his vision—the energy of the Waning Crescent Moon—guided him as he directed his mana through these nodes.
'The energy of the Waning Crescent Moon,' he recalled, understanding now that this form of mana was raw, primal, designed to increase the strength of his attacks and enhance his body's physical capabilities.
He took a deep breath, centering himself, and prepared to test this new method. Moving into the [Storm Stance], Astron began to circulate the energy through his body, directing it through the newly established judgment points.
At first, the process was not as smooth as he had envisioned. The mana flow was uneven, the energy hesitating at certain points as if unsure of where to go.
His first strike—a [Thunderclap]—lacked the explosive power he had seen in his vision, the energy dispersing too early, the force diminished.
But Astron didn't feel discouraged. Instead, a rare small smile crept onto his face.
'Interesting….Why do I feel like challenged?'
It was not something that was too weird. Whenever he had a hard time doing something that Silhouette would do, he would feel a weird sense of competitiveness rising. It was a weird but subtle feeling that he would rarely feel.
Most of the time, he never felt the competitive urge, aside from some rare moments, and this was one of those.
'The problem is not about the idea…..I just can't execute it.'
He could sense the potential, the underlying power in this new method, even if it wasn't fully realized yet.
The problem wasn't with the concept—it was with his execution. The complexity of managing multiple judgment points simultaneously was a challenge, but it was a challenge he welcomed.
He reset his stance, this time focusing more intently on the flow of mana, ensuring that each node received the energy it needed at precisely the right moment.
He visualized the translucent energy, the raw power of the Waning Crescent Moon, and how it had moved so seamlessly in his vision.
His next strike was more controlled; the energy flows slightly more even. The [Typhoon Burst] he executed carried more power, and the sweeping motion of his mana was sharper and more defined. It wasn't perfect, but it was progress.
'It's working,' Astron thought, his excitement building. 'It's not easy, but I'm starting to understand how it works.'
He continued practicing, repeating the sequences over and over, each time adjusting the flow of mana, refining the process.
The energy began to move more fluidly through his body, and the judgment points became more responsive and synchronized with his movements.
As the minutes passed, Astron felt himself improving. The strikes became more powerful, and the energy was more concentrated.
The initial clumsiness gave way to a growing confidence as his body and mind adapted to the new method.
He tried a [Quake Fist], focusing on grounding the energy through his legs and into the earth. This time, the strike sent a noticeable tremor through the floor, the mana circulating through his body with greater efficiency. The ground beneath him cracked slightly, the force of the strike much closer to what he had envisioned.
Astron's smile widened. He could feel it now—the connection between his body, his mana, and the new method of control.
'It may not exactly be like [Tempest Fang] as the style was different…..But, for the time being, first figuring out how to get rid of the Virtual Core is definitely more important.'
He thought. The vision had shown him the way, but it was nearly impossible for him to instantly imitate and learn the [Martial Art] that was shown there. He tried it, but he was unable to, as there was something missing.
And now, through trial and effort, he was beginning to walk that path.
He took a deep breath, centering himself for another attempt. This time, he would try the [Stormbreaker], the most powerful of the five strikes.
Gathering his mana into the multiple judgment points, he focused on compressing the energy, feeling the raw power of the Waning Crescent Moon within him.
With a powerful shout, he unleashed the strike. The energy surged through his body, flowing through the judgment points and into his fist. The impact was explosive, the force radiating outwards in a shockwave that shook the entire training hall.
It wasn't perfect—the timing still needed work, and the energy could be more focused—but it was a significant step forward. Astron could feel the potential, the raw power that he was beginning to harness.
"Haaah…..Haaah…..This is….just insane…."
Panting from the exertion, Astron stood in the center of the hall, his body thrumming with energy.
"The fact that the Everchanging Glyph also makes me adapt inside is even a bonus. I feel like the moment I figure it out everything….this will become something that can be applied in everything."
The path ahead was clear now, and he was eager to continue down it. The fact that he could apply this to any other method made both the challenges great and the rewards. He knew that with time, he could refine this new method, integrating it fully into his combat art.
He was on the cusp of something incredible, and he wouldn't stop until he had mastered it completely.
******
Tianna stood in the center of the training area, her expression serious as she prepared to teach Astron the final lesson.
This time the training grounds had been changed a little.
This last spell was one of the most advanced techniques in their repertoire, and she knew it would complete his transformation into a truly exceptional operative.
"Astron," Tianna began, her voice steady, "today I'm going to teach you one last special spell. It's designed to reduce the impact of a fall by increasing the spring sensitivity of your legs and body, making the bending process more efficient and reducing the risk of injury. With this spell, you'll be able to jump from the highest buildings and land without making a sound or receiving any damage."
Astron listened intently, already visualizing the possibilities. "That sounds incredibly useful, Instructor."
Tianna nodded. "It is. This spell works by enhancing the natural elasticity of your muscles and joints, allowing you to absorb the impact of a fall as if your body were a spring. It also helps distribute the force evenly across your entire body, reducing the strain on any single point."
She demonstrated the spell, her body glowing faintly as she jumped from a nearby platform, landing softly and silently on the ground below. "You had already mastered all those things, so you should be able to see how my body is now much more efficient."
Just as she said, the landing process was far smoother than anything that Astron had seen.
"Indeed." He replied, nodding his head. He watched closely, his analytical mind already breaking down the steps. "The spell….I kind of understand the thought process. It works in a way that, when you land, the spell directs the mana to absorb and redistribute the force of impact evenly across your body.
This prevents any single point from taking too much strain, which is what allows you to land softly and without injury. The key seems to be in how the mana interacts with the physical properties of the muscles, making them more efficient at bending and recoiling. "
"Yes," Tianna confirmed. "But there's one more aspect to this spell that's just as important: breaking air resistance. By controlling the flow of mana around your body, you can reduce the drag as you fall, increasing your speed and making your descent more controlled."
Tianna raised her hands, demonstrating how the air seemed to flow smoothly around her as she moved. "This technique allows you to maintain balance and control during a fall, ensuring you land exactly where you intend."
"I understand, now." He nodded.
For most of the parts, air resistance was something that would be more and more dangerous for strong hunters because the faster one would get, the stronger the resistance would become.
Of course, for a horizontal type of movement where a Hunter would use their own physical abilities, their supernatural body resistance would cancel the negative effects since for them to reach such a high agility stat, they would naturally be a high-ranked Awakened.
But, for a vertical fall, where one was falling from the sky….Things would be different, as even without being strong, one could easily reach higher speeds and eventually damage one's own body.
Tianna stepped back, giving him space. "Focus on channeling your mana to enhance your legs and body. Feel the elasticity in your muscles and joints, and let the energy flow through you. Then, as you fall, direct your mana to break the air resistance."
Astron closed his eyes for a moment, centering himself. When he opened them, he began to channel his mana as Tianna had instructed. He felt the energy coursing through his legs, making them feel lighter and more responsive. With a deep breath, he leaped from the platform.
As he fell, he instinctively directed his mana to reduce air resistance. He could feel the air parting smoothly around him, his descent steady and controlled. In a way, what he was doing was the same thing that he did when circulating his mana this morning.
But this time, rather than creating a mana force around his hands, he did right before his body in a sharp way, imitating the shape that Tianna had created.
When he landed, his knees bent effortlessly, absorbing the impact without a sound. He straightened.
Tianna's eyes widened slightly, though she quickly composed herself. "Astron, that was perfect. You've grasped the spell instantly."
"Grapsed?"
"Yes. Grasped. That movement was flawless. But something about your mana was different."
"That…..It was thanks to my own trait."
"Ah….Trait…..I see." Tianna's eyebrows twitched for a split second, but she composed herself. "Well, now you have completed everything. If you wish, you may train here the spell. The gravity here is adjustable. While we can't access the high-buildings that you would normally jump down, you can train them in the simulations."
"Understood."
"I am going to register the training as finished. A new instructor and class will be assigned in my place. Congratulations," Tianna said, a note of finality in her voice, though her pride in his achievements was evident.
"Thank you for your guidance, Instructor Tianna," Astron responded, his tone sincere. He knew that her teachings had been instrumental in his progress, and he was grateful for the knowledge and skills he had gained.
Tianna gave a slight smile, a rare expression of warmth. "It was an honor to teach you, Astron. I'm confident that you'll excel in whatever comes next. Keep pushing your limits, and you'll achieve even greater things."
With that, Tianna turned to leave, her thoughts lingering on the young man she had trained. As she exited the training area, she couldn't help but feel that she had played a certain role in a special person's journey.