Another week passed swiftly as I delved into mastering the first two forms of Celestial Dragon Breathing. I could feel the power surging within me, the destructive potential of the fire element coursing through my veins. Elara watched with a growing sense of pride as my progress continued to surprise even her.
One week was all it took for me to gain mastery over these two forms, a feat that was nothing short of astonishing. My rapid development had become the new norm, and Elara had grown somewhat numb to the swift pace of my progress.
With my current proficiency in Celestial Dragon Breathing, I was prepared to move on to the final phase of my training. Elara approached me with a determined expression, ready to introduce me to a new aspect of my Aetherial journey.
"Today," she said, "we begin the final phase of your training, Aiden. It's time to learn weapon mastery."
I nodded in understanding, eager to embrace this new challenge. As Elara summoned an array of weapons seemingly out of thin air, I couldn't help but be surprised by her ability. It was a reminder of the limitless possibilities that Aetherial mastery could offer.
But Elara had more to reveal. She stepped closer and told me a secret that left me in a state of both surprise and delight. "Aiden," she explained, "you have the power to store objects and anything non-living within your soul realm. It's a unique ability that many Aetherial Masters possess. This means you can carry your chosen weapon with you wherever you go."
The revelation was a pleasant surprise, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness at the newfound knowledge. The convenience of being able to summon my weapon at any moment was a welcome advantage.
With the ability to choose any weapon, I began to survey the options before me. Among the assortment of blades, staffs, and other arms, my eyes were drawn to a sword, its design almost identical to a katana.
Elara observed my choice with a quizzical expression and couldn't resist asking, "Why a katana? It's a rare choice and not one that many Aetherial Masters favor."
I considered her question for a moment, then grinned. "It just looks cool."
Elara couldn't help but laugh at my response. The path of Aetherial mastery had its practicalities and challenges, but it was also filled with moments of spontaneity and humor. With my chosen weapon in hand, I was ready to embrace the next phase of my training, to become not just a master of the elements but a formidable wielder of weapons as well.
Two months had passed since I began my training with Elara, and as I stood alone in the serene wilderness, I couldn't help but marvel at the transformation that had overtaken me. Dressed in black pants with my chiseled physique on display, my long silver hair tied up, I had become a vision of otherworldly beauty and grace.
Swinging my katana with fluidity and precision, I had become proficient in wielding the weapon in various fighting styles. The hardships I had endured during my training were numerous, but they had been necessary for my growth. I was not the same person who had embarked on this journey, and the skills I had acquired were a testament to the determination and perseverance that had carried me through.
As I continued to practice, I couldn't help but think back to my time with Elara, both the moments of dread and excitement during our training. She had never gone easy on me, pushing me to my limits and imparting invaluable lessons on fighting freely, without the constraints of amateur movements.
Just a few days ago, she had dropped the news that it was time for her to return to her academy. I had been saddened by the thought of her departure, but she had reassured me with a comforting pat on my head.
"Don't worry," she had said with a smile, "I will be expecting your arrival at the academy. Here's a token that will grant you entry into the entrance exam. Good luck, Aiden."
With those words, she had disappeared, leaving me with a deep sense of gratitude and a promise of a future reunion.
In the present, as I concluded my training, I decided to take a moment to reflect and cleanse myself in the nearby lake. The cool waters were a source of comfort, a place to clear my thoughts and prepare for the journey ahead.
As I submerged myself in the pristine lake, I couldn't help but think of Elara and the profound impact she had on my life. Her guidance and mentorship had been instrumental in my growth, and I was ready to carry her teachings with me as I ventured toward the Ignis Aetherial Academy.
With my mind at peace, I resurfaced from the lake, ready to continue my path toward Aetherial mastery and to embrace the challenges and adventures that awaited me. Elara's words of encouragement echoed in my heart, and I was determined to make her proud as I moved forward on this extraordinary journey.