Vyn had previously embarked on numerous expeditions into D-rank dungeons, and he was well-acquainted with the challenge they typically presented. The fact that almost the entire body of the test dummy had exploded from a single, straightforward attack suggested two possibilities: either the dummy was exceptionally weak, or his attack was extraordinarily powerful.
With these thoughts tempering his rising excitement, Vyn decided to conduct another experiment. Using the same method as before, he conjured another flame with the Boundless Light ability. The temperature in the room soared instantly as the white orb of fire danced gracefully in his palms. Without hesitation, Vyn hurled the blazing sphere at another test dummy. A thunderous explosion echoed through the room.
As before, the intricate formation of runes etched into the walls of the room absorbed the impact of the blast. When the dust settled, Vyn was left staring in disbelief at the aftermath. The scene was strikingly similar to the first: almost the entire body of the dummy was charred beyond recognition by the explosion's force.
Vyn quickly turned to the rune-engraved quick guide on the wall. He had read these instructions immediately upon entering the room, but now he felt compelled to verify the information once more. The guide confirmed that the test dummies were indeed designed to mimic the resilience of D-rank dungeon monsters, known for their ability to endure attacks similar to those of real creatures from such dungeons.
This revelation was perplexing to Vyn. As a D-rank adventurer himself, he knew firsthand the effort required to defeat these creatures. Clearing D-rank dungeons was no trivial task. Although not overwhelmingly difficult, defeating such monsters typically demanded considerable time and effort; they should not be killed with a single blow.
Did this mean that a basic fireball attack was significantly more powerful than usual? If so, what caused this enhancement? Was it due to the influence of the Boundless Light?
Vyn narrowed his eyes, contemplating. If the Boundless Light could amplify a basic attack to such an extent, did that mean that his own strength would skyrocket when he mastered more advanced skills in the future? Wasn't this akin to having an unfair advantage, a form of cheating...?
Excitement bubbled within Vyn at these thoughts, but his past experiences of enduring countless trials taught him not to celebrate prematurely. Anything that seemed too good to be true usually was. He understood that with greater power came greater risks. There was bound to be a drawback to this extraordinary phenomenon, and he was destined to uncover it in due time.
Glancing at the time, Vyn noted that there were still two and a half hours remaining. With that in mind, he swiftly shifted his focus to defensive techniques, reconfiguring the room's layout to prioritize defense.
The conditions within each dungeon varied based on its rank, as did the level of pressure and danger they posed. Aside from monsters, dungeons harbored numerous other hazards that could injure or kill rankers. Therefore, defense always took precedence.
Hazards within dungeons led to numerous deaths and woeful injuries during raids, prompting rankers to master the art of fortifying themselves before entering. Indeed, defense was as crucial as offense for ensuring survival.
However, being fully fortified wasn't solely about possessing the best or strongest armor. While quality armor could significantly bolster defense, it had its limitations.
For instance, during Vyn's encounter with the twin-headed cyclops in the dungeon, when it unleashed a fiery breath upon his party, they quickly formed a defensive formation, shielding their bodies with their shields. Yet, the searing heat of the flames compelled them to channel their world energy to the surface of their skin for added protection.
Though this additional layer of defense was minimal, it proved invaluable in bolstering their resilience, shielding them from being charred by the cyclops's flames.
Vyn, who had never possessed the magical abilities of his teammates, always felt the sharp sting of disadvantage in the dungeons. These dark, treacherous places were especially perilous for those like him, unable to harness the world's energy for protection. Consequently, Vyn had found himself spending a considerable portion of his resources on fortifying his armor's defense.
Periodically, he would reinforce his shield, each enhancement costing him a small fortune. Despite his initial reluctance to spend so much, this investment paid off. His shield now boasted a defensive strength superior to any of his teammates', a fact that allowed him to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them in battle. With the emergence of this new opportunity to learn a defensive technique, Vyn sensed a crucial turning point.
He vividly remembered the contents of the defensive skill book he had studied. It described a basic yet effective technique called Dermal Guard, aimed at strengthening the body's resilience. This skill involved magically reinforcing the skin to better withstand cuts, bruises, or burns—essentially creating an invisible barrier against physical and magical harms.
As Vyn focused, recalling every detail from the skill book, he channeled his spiritual energy towards his skin. A moment later, a faint glow emanated from him, and he could see a thin, shimmering layer of light coating his skin—a tangible sign of his new defense.
Just then, a bright system notification flashed before his eyes:
[Host has learned a new skill: Radiant Veil]
Vyn, feeling a mix of anticipation and nerves, quickly pulled out a small, sharp dagger from his pocket. Before he would dare to face the complex room formation, he decided it was crucial to test the effectiveness of his newly learned defensive technique by himself.
With a cautious hand, he pressed the cold metal of the dagger against his skin and gently pushed. To his astonishment, the blade failed to pierce through; his skin now seemed as tough as though it were armored. Encouraged, Vyn applied more force, his muscles tensing, but the outcome was the same. His skin had become impenetrable, as solid and unyielding as rock. The dagger simply couldn't make a cut!
A surge of elation washed over Vyn. He had always felt deeply frustrated and unfairly disadvantaged by his inability to master defensive techniques. But now, with this newfound ability, he sensed a shift in his fortunes. He felt a newfound confidence bubbling within him, optimistic about his future prospects in combat. All that remained was to put this ability to the test against the defense formation.
With a deep breath to steady his excitement, Vyn activated the defense training formation within the room. Immediately, a device resembling a large, ornately carved crystal orb descended from the ceiling.
This orb, enchanted with powerful magic, hummed to life vibrantly. It had the capability to project highly realistic holographic images of adversaries and simulate their attacks, creating an intense training environment.
The room buzzed with the sounds of crackling magical energy, setting the stage.