Eldris looked sympathetically at Evan, "You're still starting out, Master Evan. Accumulating such vast amounts of energy isn't something that happens overnight. Even if you utilized all the options available to you at the moment, and performed with exemplary skill in every trial, you'd probably accumulate less than 1000 Lustra. And remember, most of these options aren't even available to you right now. You need to pass more trials to unlock them."
Evan felt a weight on his chest. The enormity of the task ahead seemed insurmountable. He had thought that with his current resources and the treasures he'd acquired so far, he would be well on his way. But now, it seemed like he was standing at the base of a mountain, looking up at its peak which was lost in the clouds.
Noticing Evan's despondent expression, Eldris couldn't help but chuckle. "Master Evan, why the long face? Did you forget about the privileges granted to you as Eldrake's student?"
Evan looked up, confusion evident in his eyes. "Privileges?"
Eldris nodded with a grin, "Indeed. As a student of Eldrake, you are entitled to two free uses. No energy expenditure necessary."
Evan's eyes widened in realization, and a smile slowly began to form on his face. "That's right! I completely forgot about that!"
Eldris laughed heartily, "It's always good to remember the benefits. With those two free uses, you can at least get the process started. And as you progress in your trials, more options will become available to you. Remember, every journey begins with a single step."
Evan nodded, determination renewed. "Alright, let's do this. I'll start with the two free uses and then work my way up from there."
Eldris clapped his hands together, "That's the spirit! Now, let's get to work."
The ambient light in the room changed as the AI prepared itself for the task ahead. "Master Evan, before we proceed with the repair and merging process, we need to ascertain the ideal shape and dimensions of the weapon that would complement your cultivation path and fighting style. Given your affinity for the wind element, which often emphasizes speed and flexibility, and the skills that will be integrated from the Cosmos Corrosion Colossus, there are a few recommendations I can provide."
A holographic interface appeared before Evan, showing various weapon designs. Each one was sleek, embodying the essence of the wind, while also having elements that were reminiscent of the colossal power of the Cosmos Corrosion Colossus.
"For cultivators with an affinity for the wind element," the AI began, "lightweight, easily maneuverable weapons are often preferred. These allow for quick strikes and rapid retreats, embodying the very essence of the wind itself. However, considering the added weight and potency from the skills of the Cosmos Corrosion Colossus, we need a design that can channel that raw power efficiently."
1. **Ethereal Windblade**: A thin, double-edged blade, slightly curved, reminiscent of traditional sabers but more streamlined. Its edge would gleam with the ethereal colors of the cosmos, and its hilt would be adorned with wind patterns. Perfect for swift, slicing attacks and can channel the colossal power in wide arcs.
2. **Whirlwind Dagger**: Shorter in length but incredibly sharp. Its design would incorporate swirl patterns, representing both wind and the spiral galaxies of the cosmos. Suitable for rapid thrusts and close combat. Its compact size allows it to harness the colossal power in concentrated bursts.
3. **Gust Glaive**: A polearm with a lightweight shaft, ending in a blade that combines the sleekness of a wind blade and the might of the cosmos. Its length can aid in keeping enemies at a distance, and its design would allow for sweeping attacks that can harness both the speed of the wind and the raw power of the colossus.
Evan pondered over the options, tracing his fingers over the holographic images. Each weapon had its own allure, but he needed one that would be a true extension of himself, a seamless blend of his innate abilities and the newfound power he was about to harness.
The AI, noticing Evan's contemplation, added, "It's crucial to choose a form that resonates with you deeply. While each of these designs is optimized for your elemental affinity and the skills of the colossus, the weapon's true potential can only be unleashed when the wielder and the weapon are in harmony."
Evan hesitated, then looked to Eldris with a thoughtful expression. "Considering my wings and the fact that my soul god is supposed to be manifested in the knife, should we take that into account too in the design? And given my current strength, I'd rather not draw unnecessary attention to myself. I'd prefer the knife to look very ordinary and unassuming, even upon closer inspection."
Eldris smiled, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "Always thinking ahead, aren't you? A wise choice, especially in a world where unique and powerful weapons can draw the envy of others."
The AI, processing Evan's concerns and requests, quickly recalibrated its suggestions. "Factoring in your unique abilities, wings, and the essence of your soul god, while also keeping the appearance inconspicuous, here are three designs tailored to your specifications:"
1. **Covert Gale Blade**: At first glance, a simple utility knife, but its unassuming exterior hides its true potential. The blade's edge is thin and sharp, allowing for rapid and precise strikes. Internal inscriptions resonate with Evan's wings, allowing him to harness wind currents during combat subtly. The soul god's essence is woven into the blade's core, waiting to be awakened as Evan grows stronger.
2. **Shadow Tempest Dagger**: Its design is similar to that of a common dagger, but its balance and weight are perfectly suited for Evan's style. Inscriptions hidden within the dagger's hilt can be activated to synchronize with his wings for boosted aerial maneuvers. Its blade contains pockets of condensed colossus energy, ready to be channeled when needed, while the essence of his soul god lies dormant, perfectly concealed.
3. **Whispering Windblade**: This knife appears to be a regular tool, often used for daily tasks. However, its unremarkable appearance belies its latent power. The blade's structure is layered, allowing for the gradual release of the Cosmos Corrosion Colossus's abilities, making it less noticeable. A connection with Evan's wings exists in the form of hidden inscriptions along the knife's spine, enabling wind manipulation without drawing attention. Deep within the blade, a sliver of Evan's soul god is sealed, ensuring its powers remain hidden until Evan is ready.
Evan pondered over the new choices, appreciating the subtle genius behind each design. Each was a masterpiece of concealment and potential, promising growth and power while ensuring discretion. The decision was challenging, but he knew he had to choose the one that would be the most harmonious extension of his being and his journey ahead.
Evan stared intently at the options before him. The Covert Gale Blade's design resonated with him the most, a blade that was both unassuming and yet packed with potential. "I'll go with the Covert Gale Blade," he declared.The AI nodded, its interface lighting up in intricate patterns. "Understood. The crafting process will be taxing on your soul, so we'll ensure to take only what's safe and leave no permanent repercussions. However, recovery might take a while. Are you certain you're ready for this?"Evan nodded. "I am."The AI continued, "Before we begin, please share your ambitions and dreams with me. Infusing a weapon with the essence of its wielder's aspirations strengthens the bond between the weapon and its owner, imbuing it with greater power and potential."Evan took a deep breath, his voice steady, "I dream of a world where the strong don't prey on the weak, where everyone can live freely, without fear. I want to be a beacon of hope, a protector of the innocent, and a challenger of the oppressive. My ambition is to bring change, to be a wind of transformation that reshapes the landscape of our realm."The AI processed Evan's words, a soft hum emanating from it. "Acknowledged. We will begin the crafting process now. Please brace yourself
As Evan watched, the **Soulforge** slowly began to glow with an otherworldly light, its intricate runes and symbols pulsating in a harmonious rhythm. Built by ancient soul artisans, the forge's purpose was to draw out the soul essence without causing harm. The air around Evan began to shimmer, and a cool sensation washed over him. He could feel the essence of his very being being drawn out, visualizing his dreams, aspirations, and desires as they manifested into a tangible form.
The essence appeared as ethereal wisps, each wisp representing a fragment of his dream. They fluttered around him like fireflies, illuminating the chamber. The dance was mesmerizing, reflecting the deep and complex nature of human desires.
Once the Soulforge had gathered enough of Evan's essence, these wisps were directed to flow into the **Spectral Crafting Station**. Upon entering the station, the essence began its transformation. Like a masterful symphony, each instrument and tool within the station played its part. They distilled, refined, and amplified Evan's dreams and ambitions, ensuring that every nuance of his vision was captured.
Up next was the **Essence Distiller**, an arcane device that resembled a collection of interconnected glass vials. Its task was to distill Evan's essence further, separating dreams from ambitions with remarkable precision. Evan watched in wonder as his dreams, in liquid silver, filled one vial, while his golden ambitions filled another. The separation was distinct, each component retaining its brilliance and vigor.
The **Luminary Loom** then came to life. It was an enigmatic device that seemed to blur the lines between technology and magic. With utmost care, it weaved the silvery dreams and golden ambitions into tangible threads, intertwining them into a singular cohesive tapestry of hope and desire.
Nearby, the **Resonance Pools** began to stir. These were ancient basins filled with clear, mystical liquid known to amplify and harmonize energies. As the threads from the Luminary Loom were immersed into these pools, they emitted a harmonious tone, and the once-clear liquid began to radiate with Evan's essence.
The final step in this part of the process was the integration of the cloth into the blade's design. The Spectral Crafting Station, with gentle guidance, wrapped the radiant cloth around the Covert Gale Blade's blueprint. The cloth, as if possessing a will of its own, clung to the metal, molding, and merging seamlessly. As the cloth settled, the blade started to resonate, mirroring Evan's heartbeat. His dreams, hopes, and ambitions had now fused with the blade, forever embedding his essence into its very core.