"Let's start with meditation" Barnes says showing Ray where to sit.
Ray sits down and closes his eyes.
"Focus on your breathing and clear your mind. As you reach a state of calmness, try to extend your perception beyond your physical senses. Feel the subtle vibrations in the air, the energy that courses through everything."
Ray absorbs Barnes' words. He had dabbled in meditation before, but now he understood its importance in connecting with the essence of mana.
As Ray sat in the designated position, he took a deep breath and closed his eyes, following Barnes' guidance. He focused on the rhythm of his breathing, allowing his body to relax and his mind to settle. The ambient sounds of the room faded into the background as he delved deeper into his inner world.
With each breath, Ray felt a sense of stillness wash over him. He concentrated on emptying his mind of all thoughts, allowing his consciousness to expand beyond the confines of his physical body. It was a delicate dance, balancing between focus and surrender.
As time passed, Ray found himself struggling to maintain the desired state of calmness. His mind wandered, thoughts and distractions crept in, making it difficult to fully immerse himself in the meditation. Frustration began to bubble up within him, threatening to disrupt his progress.
Barnes, ever observant, noticed Ray's struggle by the mana he was coated in shaking turbulently. He approached him, his presence calm and reassuring. Placing a hand on Ray's shoulder, Barnes spoke in a soothing tone.
"Ray, don't be discouraged. Meditation takes time and practice. It's normal to face challenges along the way. The key is to acknowledge the thoughts that arise and gently let them go. Allow your mind to empty, like a vessel ready to be filled with the essence of mana watch the thoughts pass, without interaction until they pass no more."
Ray nodded, grateful for Barnes' understanding and encouragement. He took a moment to compose himself and renewed his focus, determined to overcome the obstacles that hindered his progress.
Once again, Ray closed his eyes and returned his attention to his breathing. He visualized each inhale and exhale, allowing the rhythm to guide him deeper into the realms of his consciousness. With each breath, he let go of distractions, surrendering to the present moment until his body completely went limp.
Minutes turned into hours as Ray continued his meditation practice. He could feel a subtle shift within himself, a growing connection to the energy that permeated his surroundings. Yet, a sense of frustration lingered, as if there was something he had yet to grasp.
Sensing Ray's inner struggle, Barnes approached him once more, his gaze filled with wisdom and determination.
"Ray, sometimes the greatest breakthroughs come when we face our deepest fears. It's time to confront the abyss within you. I want you to fall into it, to stare into the void until your mind begins to empty. Embrace the unknown, and let it guide you towards understanding."
Ray knew that facing his fears was an integral part of growth, both as a hunter and as an individual. With a nod, he gathered his courage and prepared himself for the challenging task ahead.
Taking a deep breath, Ray visualized himself standing at the edge of an endless abyss. The darkness beckoned him, its depths shrouded in mystery. With a leap of faith, he allowed himself to fall, descending into the unknown.
As Ray stared into the void, time lost its meaning. The emptiness seemed to engulf him, swallowing his thoughts and fears. Gradually, he felt a sense of liberation, as if his mind was being cleansed, purified of all distractions and hindrances.
In the depths of the abyss, Ray began to perceive the essence of mana. Its ethereal presence whispering to him, revealing secrets and truths. He understood now that true mastery of his abilities as a hunter required not only physical training but also the cultivation of his inner self.
With newfound clarity, Ray emerged from the abyss, his mind and spirit rejuvenated. The journey had been arduous, but the rewards were immeasurable. He knew that he still had much to learn, but he was now equipped with a powerful tool—the ability to tap into the essence of mana and harness its boundless potential.
Barnes then suggested another technique. "Another exercise you can try is to visualize mana as a vibrant colour or a pulsating light. Close your eyes, envision it surrounding you, and try to sense its presence. With practice, you'll become more attuned to its fluctuations."
Ray listened intently to Barnes' suggestion, eager to expand his understanding and connection to mana. He nodded, acknowledging the guidance, and prepared himself for the next exercise.
Taking a deep breath, Ray closed his eyes once more, allowing the darkness behind his eyelids to envelop him. He focused his attention on Barnes' words, visualizing mana as a vibrant colour or a pulsating light. In his mind's eye, he imagined the energy surrounding him, its hues and intensity shifting and dancing in harmony.