Inside the manor, a soft, dim light bathed the room, creating a tranquil atmosphere that embraced the spacious surroundings.
Inside the room, an ordinary guy with a slender build engaged in a conversation with an elegant man dressed in a pristine white robe.
Azrael, having completely recovered from his previous battles and injuries, sat comfortably on a plush sofa, his expression serious and contemplative. Across from him, stood up in the room, was Jing Qiáng, with his enigmatic demeanor.
With his characteristic calm and composed demeanor, Jing Qiáng began to speak, his voice carrying a soothing presence that filled the room. "Azrael, the time has come for us to delve into the depths of magical abilities. Tomorrow, I will guide you through the technique known as the 'Dark Power Container.'"
Azrael's attention was fully captured, and his gaze became sharper. "Explain how it works."
Jing Qiáng proceeds to explain the technique. "The 'Dark Power Container' technique is a method of mana manipulation that involves injecting mana into every part of your body and refining it. This transformative process changes your body, turning every inch of it into a vessel for dark power. It allows you to become one with mana waves, allowing you to store and harness mana with utmost efficiency."
Azrael contemplated the information, absorbing it with his mind. "So, the first step is to transform my body into a dark power container. What comes next?"
Jing Qiáng continued to provide a clear explanation. "The technique consists of two phases. Once your body becomes the container, the subsequent step is to fill it with dark power. You will need to refine mana into dark power and store it within your body. Then you'll have the ability to wield this power freely."
Azrael's curiosity was piqued. "So, what the benefits of having this dark power?"
Jing Qiáng continued to share his insights. "At the basic level, you will experience highly efficient mana usage, allowing you to optimize your magical abilities. Your magic power output will also see a substantial boost. Furthermore, as you advance in mastering the dark power, you will gain additional attribute stats that can significantly enhance your overall abilities. And as you progress to higher levels, the benefits will expand further."
Azrael nodded, appreciating the depth of knowledge Jing Qiáng possessed. "That's interesting. What about the downsides? And how difficult it is to master?"
Jing Qiáng's enigmatic eyes locked onto Azrael's gaze. "This technique demands both profound knowledge and meticulous precision. The journey to master it is fraught with challenges, which is precisely why my guidance will prove indispensable. The downside of the method was it was painful. But I have faith in your determination."
Azrael took a moment to reflect on the information, then acknowledged it with a firm nod, "I see." embracing the weight of the impending journey.
With the conversation concluded, the room returned to its serene stillness. Azrael contemplated the path he was about to tread, and with a sense of resolve and determination, he took a rest for the night.
**********
On the much-anticipated first day of classes, the members of the Elite Class gathered within the spacious classroom, creating an atmosphere thick with a blend of eager anticipation and inquisitive curiosity.
Cadets were scattered throughout the room, some deeply engrossed in animated conversations, while others were fully immersed in their diligent studies.
Among the notable groups, Kim Yerin, Kim Hyunwoo, and Leo sat together next to each other. Thant Zin had chosen to join a cluster of fellow cadets who were eager to befriend him.
In stark contrast, Azrael occupied a solitary seat tucked away in the back corner near the window. He tried to focus on the lecture.
At the front of the spacious classroom stood a man distinguished by his dark ginger hair and scholarly appearance, complete with glasses perched atop his nose. He was dressed in a pristine white lab coat that exuded an air of professionalism.
------------------------------------
Sebastian Hartman
Race: Human – Class: Arcane Scholar
Title: B-rank Magicia
Potentials: None
Health Point (HP): 4520/4520 (+520)
Mana Point (MP): 5100/5100 (+1100)
Stats:
Strength: 39 | Agility: 35 | Vitality: 40 | Intelligence: 40
Skill: (33)…
------------------------------------
This was Professor Sebastian, the esteemed lecturer for the day. He initiated the lecture on mana history and the intricate techniques of mana manipulation.
The cadets attentively listened, their expressions reflecting a mixture of curiosity and anticipation.
"In the year 2000 B.C.E., Earth collided with another planet from a different universe," Professor Sebastian explained, his words setting the stage for the lecture. "This collision resulted in a surge of magic energy on Earth, forever altering the course of history. Monsters emerged, dungeons formed, and gates to other realms appeared, marking the dawn of a new era."
As Professor Sebastian spoke, a series of text, images, and diagrams appeared on the board behind him, seamlessly transitioning to illustrate his points. The cadets' attention was drawn to the captivating visual aids.
"Magic energy, qi, chakra, magic weave, mana," Sebastian continued. "all are terms used to describe the same fundamental energy. But in modern times, we collectively refer to it as 'mana.'"
"Throughout history, various terms have been used to describe those who can wield the power of magic," he went on, "from shamans and magi to superhumans and heroes. However, the term accepted worldwide, and coined by our country's founding father, Stain Zurra, is 'Magicia.'"
"Throughout history," he went on, "those who could harness this magic energy came up with various techniques for manipulating it. Some of these techniques include the use of mana circles, drawing magic circles, contracting with spirits, mana point circulation, and mana weave manipulation."
"As magic users evolved," Sebastian continued, "they devised various techniques to manipulate mana. Some of these techniques include mana circles, drawing magic circles, contracting with spirits, mana point circulation, and mana weave manipulation."
He delved into the details of each technique:
"As for the 'Drawing Magic Circle' technique," he began, "it involves the creation of intricate magic circles adorned with symbols that resonate harmoniously with magic energy. This particular method releases the highest magical power output. However, it comes with a significant drawback: the elaborate nature of drawing these circles demands a considerable amount of time, making it vulnerable to disruption."
The cadets within the room listened attentively, with some diligently transcribing the professor's words into their notebooks while others absorbed the knowledge directly into their memory.
A couple of cadets had already succumbed to the temptation of sleep, but Professor Sebastian remained undeterred, steadfastly advancing through his lecture without a hint of concern for those who had drifted into slumber.
"Contractor of The Spirit: By forming a contract with a spirit, one can borrow its power. The strength of this technique depends on the spirit's rank, and not everyone can establish a contract with a spirit. Since it's a rare privilege to be liked by spirits."
"Circulation Mana Point," Sebastian explained. "this technique involves creating mana points in the user's body and filling them with mana. Although stable, it comes with a drawback: if a mana point is damaged or ruined, the user's magic power output will decrease."
"Mana Weave Manipulation: This technique trains the body to be sensitive to mana and controls the surrounding mana waves. It doesn't require storing mana inside the user's body. However, the effectiveness depends on the density of mana waves in the surrounding area."
Finally, he reached the last technique.
"Mana Circle," Sebastian emphasized, "is perhaps the most stable technique. It involves creating a mana circle on the user's body, typically around the heart. This method is popular for its stability and control over magic. However, if the user's mana becomes low, its magic power output becomes slightly weaker, and when mana runs out, the user may lose consciousness."
The atmosphere was one of focused learning. Many cadets sat attentively, listening to Professor Sebastian's lecture.
Among them was a Chinese cadet wearing glasses, with a curious expression on his face. He raised his hand. He was Zhang Weijie, a cadet with magitech engineers classes.
Professor Sebastian acknowledged him with a nod. "Go on."
Zhang Weijie posed his question, his curiosity driving his words. "Professor, what about the concept of injecting mana into every inch of a user's body? I've come across texts that suggest such a technique exists."
Professor Sebastian adjusted his glasses and responded, "If you referring to the theory of the 'Human Mana Container.' Theoretically, it's possible, but it's an incredibly risky and dangerous method. 'Human Mana Container' was a technique that involves transforming every part of the user's body into a container for mana."
As he explained, Sebastian illustrated the concept with a wave of his hand, creating a blue holographic human anatomy.
Within the hologram, mana was visualized as it was meticulously injected into various regions of the human body, allowing the cadets to visually grasp the intricate concept.
He continued, "If the user can't control the process, their body would explode. It's also an excruciatingly painful method, as it involves altering every inch of your body. The transformation takes a considerable amount of time to convert every part of the body, and one small mistake can result in utter destruction."
As he uttered these words, the holographic human illustration underwent a drastic transformation.
It vividly showcased the mana inside the body spiraling uncontrollably, and with a burst, it exploded, shattering the figure into small pieces.
A collective shiver rippled through some of the cadets as they grappled with the horrifying mental image of such a gruesome outcome.
Professor Sebastian further explained, "In the end, it remains a theory, and there is no scientific research to show that the technique can be successfully performed. No one who has attempted it has survived, and all have met tragic ends."
As the professor concluded his explanation, Azrael's thoughts turned inward. He asked Jing Qiáng, 'Hey old man, can you ensure the technique will be safe?'
Jing Qiáng replied calmly within Azrael's mind, "It's true that many have failed in attempting this technique due to its complexity. However, you don't need to worry. I have already succeeded a couple times in transforming my subordinates' physiques."
'I see.' with Azrael's internal commitment to this challenging path, he squared his shoulders, accepted the situation, and prepared himself mentally for the journey ahead.
Another cadet, this time a young woman, raised her hand and asked, "Professor, can someone use more than one mana manipulation technique?"
Professor Sebastian nodded in response. "Indeed, it's possible to train in multiple techniques but keep in mind that your development in each one will be somewhat constrained and your progress will be hindered. Many Magicia tend to focus on a single technique, while some might have two or three. However, even those who practice multiple techniques tend to have one main focus."
He glanced around the classroom, gauging the students' expressions. "Any more questions?" he asked, though none of the cadets raised a further question.
With that, Sebastian concluded his lecture. "That's all for today. On your bracelets, you'll find various elite mana manipulation techniques available for training. You can choose to train using those techniques, or you can opt for your family or clan's specialized technique. You may also explore other branch techniques in the library. Additionally, all lecture materials from your instructors are accessible on your bracelets for review. Class Dismissed."
With the class dismissed, the cadets began to disperse, some heading to the library, others discussing the lecture amongst themselves, each cadet heading in their respective directions.