With the intensified training alongside Alan, Cedric's progress in mastering the second sword art, "First Ray of Light," showcased remarkable advancements. The Northstar brothers, now a formidable duo, continued to push their limits, determined to extract the full potential of Cedric's newfound abilities.
Under the watchful guidance of Andrew, who had personally honed the Northstar swordsmanship over the years, Cedric delved into the intricacies of the second sword art. The challenge lay in extending the effective range while maintaining the density of mana to ensure optimal striking power.
Cedric's daily routine transformed into a relentless pursuit of perfection. With every swing of his sword, he visualized the trajectory and impact of the First Ray of Light. The key was to synchronize the precise mana manipulation required for the technique, ensuring that the energy carried by the strike remained potent even at greater distances.
One day, after an arduous training session, Alan offered encouraging words, "Cedric, your progress is remarkable. You've extended the range significantly, and your control over the mana is becoming more refined. Keep pushing, and soon you'll break through the barrier."
Cedric, catching his breath, acknowledged the support, "Thanks, Alan. Your guidance has been invaluable. I can feel the improvement, but there's still a long way to go before I can fully penetrate the dummy."
Andrew, observing their exchange, chimed in, "Cedric, mastery comes with persistence. What you're attempting is no small feat. The Northstar sword arts demand both precision and power. The fact that you're making strides is a testament to your dedication."
Encouraged by the words of his mentor and brother, Cedric approached the training grounds with renewed determination. The distant silhouette of the dummy, marked by the runes that absorbed mana on its surface, served as a constant reminder of the ultimate goal.
As days turned into weeks, Cedric's efforts bore fruit. The effective range of his First Ray of Light extended to 20 meters without a noticeable decrease in output. While he had not yet achieved full penetration of the dummy, he had reached a crucial milestone—1/5 of the way to the ultimate target.
During a training session, Andrew observed Cedric's progress and commended him, "Cedric, your persistence is paying off. The density and range are improving steadily. Remember, the Northstar swordsmanship is not just about brute force; it's about finesse and control."
With Alan's continued guidance and Andrew's seasoned mentorship, Cedric looked ahead with a determined gaze. The path to mastering the second sword art remained challenging, but each step forward solidified his commitment to the legacy of the Northstar family.
As the days counted down to Alan's impending departure for the Caliope academy, the Northstar household echoed with the sounds of training, camaraderie, and the shared pursuit of martial excellence. Cedric, fueled by his progress, stood ready to face the challenges that lay ahead, knowing that the journey had only just begun.
The Northstar brothers, Cedric and Alan, continued their rigorous training, focusing on the mastery of the Second Sword Art, "First Ray of Light." This technique, relying solely on mana strike without causing physical damage, posed a unique challenge in penetrating a dummy specifically designed to withstand magical attacks.
The dummy, crafted with precision and embedded with runes that absorbed mana on its surface, was a formidable opponent for Cedric's attempts. It stood as a testament to the Northstar family's commitment to excellence and their recognition of the importance of mastering both physical and magical aspects of combat.
As Cedric swung his sword in repeated attempts to breach the dummy's defenses, the distinct sound of mana colliding with the runic surface echoed across the training grounds. Each strike, even when it failed to fully penetrate, demonstrated the growing power and control Cedric was developing over the First Ray of Light.
Andrew, overseeing the training, offered insights, "Cedric, your struggle against the dummy is a crucial part of your growth. The fact that you can breach its magical defenses to a depth of 1/5 shows the increasing potency of your mana strikes. Precision and power must go hand in hand."
Alan, always by Cedric's side during training, chimed in, "Remember, Cedric, the purpose of this technique is not just to overpower but to find the delicate balance between control and force. It's a dance with mana, and you're getting better with each step."
Undeterred by the challenges, Cedric continued his daily routine, relentlessly practicing the First Ray of Light. The dummy, marked by the resilience of its runic surface, became a silent witness to his perseverance. The occasional crackling sound of mana striking against the runes filled the air, creating a rhythmic cadence.
One day, after a particularly intense training session, Andrew commended Cedric, "Your determination is commendable, Cedric. Breaking through the magical defenses is no small feat. Continue refining your technique, and soon, you'll find the balance required to fully penetrate."
Cedric, catching his breath, responded with determination, "I won't stop until I've mastered this technique, and the dummy yields to the power of the First Ray of Light. I understand the importance of precision now, and I'll keep pushing."
As weeks passed, Cedric's efforts began to bear fruit. The depth of penetration increased steadily, and the dummy, once impervious to magical attacks, now showcased visible signs of wear. The runic surface, though resilient, bore the marks of Cedric's relentless pursuit.
Alan, witnessing the progress, grinned, "Cedric, you're making the dummy rethink its defenses. Soon, it won't stand a chance against the First Ray of Light. Keep at it."
Encouraged by the words of his mentor and brother, Cedric approached the dummy with renewed vigor. The training grounds, once silent save for the echoing mana strikes, now reverberated with a sense of impending triumph. The Second Sword Art, a testament to the Northstar legacy, was gradually bending the magical defenses, unlocking its true potential in Cedric's skilled hands.