In a mesmerizing display, flames erupted from the runic objects scattered around, swiftly enveloping the charging zombies. The infernal blaze acted like ethereal chains, rendering the undead immobile. These spectral chains of fire pierced through their limbs with relentless speed.
In the blink of an eye, the flames reached the heads of the zombies, culminating in a crescendo of explosive force. Heads erupted in a fiery spectacle, scattering remnants in all directions. The once relentless horde now stood motionless, ensnared and extinguished by the fiery embrace of the enchanted runes.
James stood amidst the aftermath of the explosive display, a mix of astonishment and excitement etched across his face. The small yet devastating explosions had piqued his curiosity, and he wasted no time delving into the intricacies of his newfound abilities.
Drawing upon his knowledge of runic magic, James decided to experiment with different elemental attributes. He carefully inscribed variations of the explosion rune, infusing them with the essence of water, earth, air, plant, and thunder. Each rune held the potential for unique destruction, a deadly symphony of elemental forces waiting to be unleashed.
Testing the runes on various materials became James' next endeavor. With precision, he deployed the explosive glyphs on individual objects, observing the distinct effects of each elemental variation. The results were nothing short of spectacular; a single rune could unleash havoc, manipulating the very fabric of nature.
Eager to push the limits, James summoned a legion of zombies, transforming them into unwitting test subjects. The elemental explosion runes proved devastating against the undead, obliterating them with efficiency. The once-lumbering zombies now succumbed to the relentless power of James' runic arsenal.
However, the revelation came with a price. The runes, it seemed, were one-time-use only. The raw energy released during the explosions rendered the glyphs inert, requiring James to engrave new ones for subsequent use. The process was both physically and mentally taxing, depleting his stamina and energy reserves.
Undeterred, James continued his work, engraving a total of 100 pieces of these elemental explosion runes over the course of two intense hours. The meticulous craftsmanship required for each glyph, coupled with the exhaustive testing, left him drained but satisfied with the formidable power at his disposal.
As James surveyed the aftermath of his experiments, a sense of accomplishment washed over him. The elemental explosion runes stood as a testament to his mastery of runic magic, a force to be reckoned with. Yet, the realization of the energy cost and the need for constant re-engraving lingered, hinting at the delicate balance between power and its toll on the wielder.
James thought of the reason for which he couldn't feel exhaustion or mental fatigue after engraving so many runes which was soon answered by the system.
"Host, Your skill 'Spiritual Devour' also absorbs the stamina of your killed subjects storing them in your body. It is the only reason you don't feel exhaustion." The system spoke with its usual tone and went silent.
James swiftly gathered his rune-engraved creations, a mix of wood, metal, glass pieces, and debris. The bag, though weighing around 5-6 kg, seemed inconsequential to him as he effortlessly carried it. Upon entering his house, he found a heartwarming scene – Jasmine, Alita, and his parents bustling around, arranging dishes on the dining table.
A sense of peace washed over James as he witnessed his parents joyfully engaging with those who had sacrificed their lives to protect him in a previous existence. Not dwelling on the surreal nature of the moment, he moved with purpose, placing the bag in a corner before joining the harmonious atmosphere.
Without hesitation, James immersed himself in the dinner preparations, eager to contribute to the shared warmth and camaraderie. The clinking of utensils, laughter, and the aroma of the meal filled the air, creating a tableau of familial unity that resonated with James' heart. The simple act of helping with dinner became a bridge between his past and present, forging connections that transcended the boundaries of life and death.
After dinner...
James reached out for jasmine and handed her a bag filled with small size pouches and a set of clothes.
As Jasmine held the bag with the mysterious contents, curiosity, and determination filled her eyes. James observed her expression and nodded approvingly. He explained, "Jasmine, these clothes are specially designed to provide protection against zombies. They can defend you for a short time, but after that, they won't serve the same purpose."
Jasmine listened attentively, understanding the significance of the gift. She replied, "Thank you, James. I appreciate this. I'll make sure to use them wisely." Her gratitude was evident, and she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
James then handed her the pouches, emphasizing, "These pouches contain items that will be essential for our survival. Each one serves a specific purpose. Only open them when I tell you to.
Jasmine nodded again, acknowledging the importance of discretion.
Still troubled by the contents inside the pouches, Jasmine asked, "What are these anyway?"
James looked at her with a mischievous smile, "Just a few Explosive Toys. Handle them with care. "
James went outside the house to earn some SES (Spiritual Energy Strands).