Entering Isabella's office, the atmosphere held an air of anticipation. Following her to the laboratory, Cedric noticed the presence of Themus, the skilled swordsmith, working on a detailed chart. The unusual collaboration intrigued Cedric, but before he could inquire, Isabella began to address the situation.
Isabella: "Cedric, you are fortunate and, in some ways, faced with challenges. Your mana gates being positioned on your back provides an advantage for connection, but the lumbar and cervical spine placements are unique and critical. Damage to the cervical mana gate could have severe consequences, potentially impacting your ability to use mana."
Eustace, seemingly aware of the intricacies involved, shared a knowing look with Isabella. The revelation stirred a mix of curiosity and concern within Cedric, realizing the delicate balance between the advantages and vulnerabilities inherent in his mana gate placements.
Isabella's revelation about the potential risks associated with Cedric's unique mana gate placements cast a momentary shadow over his excitement. However, Isabella, in her characteristic confident tone, reassured him.
Isabella: "But you don't need to worry. With my skills, as long as you trust me, the chances of any issues are close to zero."
Her words brought a sense of assurance, and Cedric, glancing at Eustace, found further validation in his grandfather's nod. Despite Isabella's unconventional methods, her expertise was undeniable, making her an integral part of the Northstar household.
Isabella: "Now, let's see the design Themus and I have come up with. It's crucial to ensure your safety while incorporating the dragon blood into the rune."
Themus, the skilled swordsmith, took center stage, unveiling a meticulously crafted design. The illustration depicted an Eastern dragon, coiled with its lower feet extending and clawing two orbs, while its upper feet and head each held another orb. The lifelike depiction captured the essence of a dragon, with each orb representing a specific mana gate.
Themus: "The orbs symbolize the mana gates, and using dragon blood led us to this design. It carries a special resonance, connecting with the essence of the dragon. It's not just functional but also aesthetically meaningful."
Cedric, appreciating the symbolism and artistry in the design, nodded in agreement.
Cedric: "I really like the design. It captures the essence of both protection and the unique influence of dragon blood. I trust in your craftsmanship, Themus."
As the collaborative efforts unfolded, Cedric recognized the synergy between Isabella's magical expertise and Themus's artistic skill. The tattoo design, essentially a rune, would serve as a protective layer, not in the form of armor, but an intricate mark on his skin, seamlessly blending both functionality and artistic expression.
Isabella: "The implementation of this rune will be a significant step in enhancing your training conditions. The fusion of dragon blood and magical craftsmanship aims to create a harmonious balance for your unique needs."
With a shared understanding of the design's significance and the collaborative effort involved, Cedric eagerly anticipated the transformative process that would mark a new chapter in his journey toward mastery.
Themus set the tone for the intricate process that lay ahead, emphasizing the gradual approach to ensure Cedric's body adapted seamlessly to each step.
Themus: "This will be a lengthy and arduous process for you, so we will start by creating the orbs one at a time over the span of 5 weeks. Your body needs time to adapt after each orb is inscribed."
Isabella, taking charge of the procedure, instructed Cedric to lie down on his stomach. As he followed her guidance, anticipation and a bit of anxiety filled the air. Isabella's next instruction was for Cedric to begin his meditation, a crucial aspect of the process to allow for the accurate inscribing of the orb onto the edges of his lumbar spine mana gate.
Isabella: "Cedric, start your meditation. We need your mana gate to be in its calmest state for precise inscribing."
Themus handed Isabella the rune base mixed with mana gold, a combination chosen for its superior mana conductivity and successful history of fusion with flesh. The intricacy of the process resembled the art of tattooing, with each stroke holding profound significance.
Isabella, with a focused and meticulous demeanor, commenced the inscribing onto the mana gate on Cedric's lumbar spine. The inscribing tool, coated with the rune base and heated mana gold, worked its way across his skin. Cedric, feeling a combination of discomfort and pain, gritted his teeth and endured the sensation.
Cedric: "I must endure this. Any movement could lead to disastrous consequences."
Isabella's hands moved with precision, etching the rune onto his mana gate. Each stroke contributed to the formation of the first orb, symbolizing the opening of the corresponding mana gate. As the process unfolded, Cedric's meditation played a crucial role, maintaining the stability of his mana gate despite the physical discomfort.
Isabella: "Stay focused, Cedric. This is a crucial step, and your perseverance will pave the way for the subsequent orbs."
Themus observed the process keenly, ensuring the integration of the artistic design with the functional aspects of the rune. The collaboration between Isabella's magical expertise and Themus's artistic finesse became evident as the first orb took shape.
Themus: "It's a delicate balance between aesthetics and function. The magic of the rune lies in this synergy."
As the first week concluded, Cedric's lumbar spine bore the inscribed orb, marking the initial phase of the transformative process. The subsequent weeks would see the gradual completion of the remaining orbs, each contributing to the overall enhancement of Cedric's mana gates. The journey toward mastery involved not only the physical adaptation but also the fortitude to endure the challenges posed by the fusion of art and magic.