Mr. Joones, our homeroom teacher, led us to the designated training area where we were able to put our unique abilities to the test and further develop our skills. As we stepped through the door, I couldn't help but cast a quick glance around, rolling my eyes in awe at the impressive space that lay before us. The training area stretched out wide, resembling the grandeur of a stadium, yet with the added convenience of being indoors. The floor, impeccably smooth and gleaming, gave off an aura of constant cleanliness and meticulous upkeep.
I didn't take the time to discover the identity of our homeroom teacher; it was merely by chance that I overheard his name. Prior to that, he enlightened us on the art of harnessing our individual abilities to their full potential, emphasizing the importance of mastering the proper usage of mana as a foundational step.
Mana serves as the vital source of energy that empowers individuals to wield their unique abilities. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when utilizing this potent energy, as a lack of understanding regarding the appropriate amount to release may result in swift exhaustion and depletion of one's mana reserves.
It is a well-known fact that each and every one of them possesses a considerable amount of experience in this particular domain. However, I find myself as the sole individual lacking such experience. Regrettably, I am unaware of the reasons behind Lena's tardy transfer, but I, on the other hand, made my transfer during the midst of their ongoing semester.
As I gazed down at the lines etched on my palm, a whirlwind of thoughts and contemplations engulfed my mind.
I have never had the opportunity to test out Adonis' skill of nullification. This power, if I must be honest, seems rather unimpressive and feeble. It appears to lack any practical use in combat or even self-defense. Furthermore, I am completely oblivious to the full potential and scope of Adonis' bestowed ability upon me. Nevertheless, an inexplicable sense of anticipation fills me as I eagerly await the chance to witness and comprehend its true capabilities.
My attention was immediately captured by the sound of clapping, causing me to divert my gaze towards the source. To my surprise, it was none other than Mr. Joones who had elicited such applause.
"In this session, we will engage in an exercise to enhance your mastery of effectively managing and regulating the flow of mana."
Mr. Joones said.
He provided us with instructions and organized us into pairs. Gradually, everyone found their respective partners except for the remaining two individuals.
Mr. Jones, with a piercing glare, asserted "Given the absence of anyone else, it is imperative for the two of you to become partners."
Leaving us with those words, he briskly turned his back on us, leaving me to contemplate my situation.
I've noticed a noticeable reduction in the tension that used to exist between me and my classmates, as well as with my teacher. It's quite intriguing to ponder over the reasons behind this newfound change in dynamics.
As I scanned the area to identify the final remaining person, much to my astonishment, it turned out to be none other than the individual with shimmering silver hair. A peculiar combination of conflicting emotions took over me as I found myself simultaneously smiling while a slight frown adorned my face.
Why him!?
My internal scream reverberated throughout my entire being, echoing in the depths of my soul.
I inhaled deeply, feeling a sense of resignation wash over me. It seemed that my options were limited, and there was no escaping the situation at hand. As I glanced at his furrowed brows and tightly crossed arms, it became apparent that not only did he not like me, but it appeared that he harbored a dislike for everyone in general.
Reluctantly, I approached him, battling with my own inner reservations, and absentmindedly scratched my right ear. Perplexed by my own actions, I couldn't comprehend the reason behind it, yet a surge of unease washed over me as I sensed the piercing stares of my female classmates, almost as if they were envious. But let me be clear, this was the last thing I desired – to be caught up in such a predicament.
Despite my efforts, I found it difficult to break through the barrier between us as he refused to engage in conversation, resulting in an uncomfortable silence that hung heavily in the air. It felt as though an immense wall had been erected, preventing any meaningful connection from forming between us.
I cleared my throat, attempting to ease the tension with a lighthearted comment. "You must be quite the celebrity, huh? I can sense the piercing gazes from all the girls."
However, to my dismay, my attempt at breaking the awkward silence only seemed to make it more uncomfortable. This guy in question responded with an even deeper frown, treating my presence as nothing more than an annoyance.
I sighed. "Alright, fine. You obviously don't like me. I can do this on my own and I hope you can too."
I made the decision to step down.
Despite my uncertainty about what action to take, I clenched my lips tightly together, signaling my internal struggle. I deliberately averted my gaze from him, choosing instead to focus on the activities of my fellow classmates. Evidently, it appeared that within every pair, one of them was assigned the responsibility of assessing the correctness of their partner's actions.
How can they determine if they are executing the task correctly and effectively?
As I narrowed my eyes, I intensified my focus on the way they effortlessly channel their mana. Observing closely, I noticed how they subtly inhale and exhale, their breaths synchronized with the ebb and flow of their energy. It was intriguing to witness the intricate movements of their hands as they tightly clenched their fists, almost as if they were engaged in a deep meditative state. Their expressions conveyed a sense of seriousness, reflecting their unwavering commitment to their craft. It was fascinating to witness how this practice seemed to be a common thread among the majority, as almost everyone in the area adopted this method.
I experienced a distinct tingling sensation, as if my senses were attuned to the gradual decline of mana within my surroundings. Could it be because they were releasing their mana?
As I placed my thumb beneath my chin, deep in thought, a perplexing question arose in my mind - how exactly do they manage to extract it? A crease formed on my forehead and I instinctively ran my fingers through my hair, a sign of my inner turmoil.
I am filled with anger and frustration, to the point where I can feel the rage burning deep within my chest. Adonis made a promise to me, assuring that he would provide me with the necessary knowledge. However, to my dismay, he completely neglected to share with me the vital information on how to effectively utilize his extraordinary ability. This oversight has left me feeling incredibly agitated and disappointed.
"Calm your nerves."
I found myself taken aback as my eyes widened in surprise upon hearing that familiar voice. It was perplexing, considering I had assumed that he had no intention of cooperating with me. Confusion and doubt clouded my mind, causing a slight frown to form on my face. Despite my reservations, however, I ultimately chose to comply with his instructions.
I took deep breaths, inhaling and exhaling slowly in order to soothe my anxiousness.
"Feel the intense heat coming from deep within you, imagine yourself transferring that fiery energy to your hands. It's like harnessing and directing the true essence of fire."
He made an additional remark, and the way he spoke seemed to indicate that he was reluctant to assist, yet his behavior contradicted his words.
"H-How do you do that exactly...?"
I timidly asked, my voice filled with uncertainty and hesitation.
As his footsteps grew nearer, I could sense his presence drawing closer and closer until finally, he materialized before me. With his striking silver hair and piercing red eyes, he had the height to match my own stature. It was as if his eyes were delving deep into my soul, searching for something buried within me. A faint sigh escaped his lips, almost as though he found my inner workings far from elusive.
"Take a moment to close your eyes and imagine the scenario."
He provided a response.
On this occasion, his voice lacks the usual chill or annoyance. Instead, it carries a subtle tenderness that lingers within the confines of his words.
I acknowledged his statement with a nod, and then proceeded to shut my eyes, allowing myself to delve into a deep state of visualization. In my mind's eye, I pictured my core, residing at the very center of my being. As Count Visterio had previously explained, this was the source of a peculiar burning sensation, which I could indeed perceive, although it lacked any element of pain. It was an indescribable feeling, one that perfectly aligned with the description the Count had provided regarding the awakening of one's abilities. With great concentration, I diligently followed his guidance, envisioning the movement of this fiery energy from its origin towards the palm of my hand. Engrossed in this process, I remained entirely focused on the task at hand...
"Wait!"
With a hint of urgency in his voice, he let out a slight yell, which caught my attention and made me come to an abrupt halt. Instantly, I widened my eyes and raised an eyebrow, curious about what could have caused such a reaction. That's when I caught sight of his face, a mix of panic and concern evident in his expression. His hand was mid-air, poised to tap my shoulder, but my sudden awakening prevented it from making contact.
The frustrated man in front of me couldn't help but react by facepalming at the realization, "You were doing it incorrectly."
I blinked multiple times, confusion evident on my face. "Huh...?" I uttered, my voice trailing off as I contemplated the situation. It puzzled me how I could be doing it incorrectly when, in my perception, I had finally grasped the ability to accomplish the task at hand.
"Really..? I thought I could do it. I was close to--"
"The process of transferring the mana to your hands is correct…" He paused. You can see the doubt on his face. "You were about to release all your mana."
"Was it not right?"
I questioned.
He furrowed his brows, "Yes. Unless you want to kill yourself. If you release all your mana at once, it will explode. Your body won't be able to handle that amount of pressure, you'll either die or faint."
As I gazed at him, my eyes grew wider with fear, and I instinctively averted my gaze. In that moment, a horrifying thought crossed my mind - was I on the verge of encountering my impending demise?
He placed his hand on his waist and let out a deep sigh.
"Do it again."
I hesitated for a moment before nodding in agreement. The slight uncertainty in my actions was evident as I cautiously tilted my head forward, expressing my assent.
I repeated the same action once again, only this time with a heightened sense of caution. I took a moment to calm myself and envision the fiery energy flowing through my veins and at the very core of my being. However, I made a deliberate choice not to unleash all of my mana at once. Instead, I focused on releasing just a small droplet, ensuring that I didn't exhaust all of my energy. It was a mindful decision to hold back, and I maintained this restraint until the precise instant when I sensed a solitary droplet of mana escape from the palms of my hands.
With a surge of excitement and contentment coursing through me, I opened my eyes and fixed my gaze upon him. A sense of jubilation and delight enveloped me, for I had achieved something truly remarkable. A wide, beaming smile adorned my face, reflecting the overwhelming joy and satisfaction that consumed my being.
"I... I did it!"
A smile, filled with innocence and unawareness, spread across my face.
As I watched him, I had a hard time catching the small smile that almost showed up on his face. It hit me that he seemed pretty relieved.
"I express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the help you have given me."
With great gratitude, I humbly inclined my head towards him and offered sincere thanks. Without his timely intervention, I would have succumbed to unconsciousness, or even worse, met my untimely demise.
"It was absolutely nothing of significance whatsoever... Now, kindly remove yourself from my presence."
After muttering those words, he swiftly departed, reverting back to his former self, an icy and grumpy young man. Nevertheless, I resolved to observe him through a new lens this time, considering the possibility that there might be underlying circumstances contributing to his demeanor. Despite his hardened exterior, I firmly believe that deep down, he possesses a compassionate heart.
"Don't you need my help?"
I raised a question and pondered over it.
With a self-satisfied and annoyed expression, he asked. "What do you think?"
I let out a soft chuckle, finding it quite amusing how he seemed to be going to great lengths to appear distant and detached.
"What...why are you laughing...?"
"I just... I simply believe that you are a genuinely good person."
I bestowed upon him a large, radiant smile, which caused a flicker of astonishment to dance across his countenance. A perplexed expression creased his forehead, creating delicate lines that traced the contours of his face.
"You are mistaken then."
And just like that, he vanished from sight.