After Shadow created the shadow clones of myself, excitement ran through my veins. I was eager to test my strength and improve my skills against these clones.
"So, Aric, these clones have the same strength as you, so you can accurately test your abilities by fighting them," Shadow explained. "They will give you a tough fight, mirroring your moves and countering them based on your actions."
As I listened intently, Shadow continued, "Whatever power you use, they will mimic and adapt to your movements."
With those instructions, Shadow began to teach me about the shadow element's unique powers. Although Mentor Shane had taught me about my dual-element abilities, and I was somewhat familiar with using them, I still needed to train extensively to master these powers.
But when it came to the shadow element, I was starting from scratch. I didn't even know the full extent of its capabilities.
"Let me show you the power of shadows," Shadow said.
After saying that, something began to materialize out of my own shadow. I watched in bewilderment as a sword emerged from the darkness and floated in front of me.
"This is one of the powers of shadow: Shadow Manipulation," Shadow explained. "It allows you to control and shape shadows to create constructs, weapons, or even creatures. You are currently in the starting stage, but as you grow stronger, your shadow manipulation abilities will grow with you."
Shadow continued, "You can combine a real sword with shadow energy, infusing it to enhance its sharpness and making it capable of cutting through almost anything while dealing extra damage.
This is one of the powers you will practice now. As you progress, I will teach you other abilities, but for now, this will be enough."
I couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment, eager to learn more, but I knew Shadow was right. Taking it slow and mastering each ability thoroughly would benefit me in the long run.
"So, let's try using your sword and infusing it with shadow energy," Shadow instructed. "Then strike the clone."
I closed my eyes and tried to focus on my shadow element. Just as Shadow had instructed, I could feel it—the dark energy inside me, pulsing with potential.
I concentrated on that energy, allowing myself to become attuned to its rhythm. After a few moments of deep focus, I felt the energy beginning to respond, flowing out from within me.
With careful control, I channeled the shadow energy into the blade in front of me. The sword seemed to resonate with the infusion of dark power, its surface shimmering with a subtle, shadowy aura.
The energy coursed through the weapon, enhancing its sharpness and strength.The sword seemed to vibrate with newfound strength, its edge becoming impossibly sharp
I looked at the transformed blade, now imbued with the power of the shadows. I felt a rush of exhilaration and anticipation as I prepared to put my new skills to the test against the shadow clones
I turned towards the shadow clone, ready to test my newfound ability. With a determined shout, I swung the sword at the clone. The blade sliced through the shadowy figure effortlessly, the infused energy amplifying the force of my strike.
The clone dissipated into a cloud of darkness before reforming a few feet away, ready for another round.
"Good," Shadow said. "Keep practicing. The more you use this ability, the more proficient you will become."
With renewed determination, I continued my training, striking at the clones with my shadow-infused sword. Each swing felt more precise, more powerful. I could feel the bond between me and the shadow element deepening with every strike.
Later, after training with the sword against the clones, Shadow began to teach me about more advanced powers of shadow manipulation.
"You've made good progress with the shadow-infused blade," Shadow said. "Now, let's explore further capabilities of your shadow manipulation."
I listened intently as Shadow continued, "Shadow manipulation isn't limited to just weapons. With practice, you can create various constructs and even summon creatures made of shadow to aid you in battle."
Shadow demonstrated by forming a shield from the surrounding darkness, solid yet flexible. "This is a shadow shield, capable of deflecting attacks and absorbing impacts. It can be reshaped and resized according to your needs."
I mimicked Shadow's movements, concentrating on drawing the dark energy from within me. Slowly, a shadowy barrier began to form in front of me. It was rough at first, but with Shadow's guidance, I refined its shape and solidity.
"Good," Shadow encouraged.
"The next power of shadow manipulation is the creation of shadow creatures," Shadow said.
"This is a powerful ability that allows you to control the shadows of creatures you have defeated. By using this power, you can create loyal shadow creatures to aid you in battle. However, be warned—it requires a significant amount of mana and can leave you exhausted if overused. You must learn to manage it wisely."
I nodded, intrigued by the potential of this new ability but aware of its limitations.
"Because this ability is best utilized in real combat situations," Shadow continued, "we will set it aside for now. You will have the chance to practice it when you go out to hunt. For now, let's focus on mastering other techniques."
Determined to unlock and understand these mysterious powers, I focused on Shadow's instructions. He guided me through the basics, showing me how to manipulate the darkness and use it to my advantage.
Each technique he demonstrated opened new possibilities, and I knew that mastering these abilities would be crucial in the battles to come.
"Pay attention, Aric," Shadow said. "To harness my power, you must first learn to blend into the shadows, becoming one with the darkness around you."
I practiced merging with the shadows, feeling the energy flow through me as I disappeared and reappeared at different points in the shadowy realm. It was an exhilarating experience, but I knew this was only the beginning.
I spent hours forming shadowy blades and shields, learning to manipulate their form and solidity. The shadow clones provided relentless practice partners, forcing me to adapt and refine my techniques continuously.
"Remember, Aric, the key to mastering the shadow element lies in understanding its fluid nature," Shadow advised. "It is both tangible and intangible, requiring you to balance control and adaptability."
As the night progressed, my confidence grew. Each clash with the clones honed my skills further, and I could feel the bond with the shadow element deepening. I was determined to unlock its full potential, not just for myself but for the safety of those I cared about.
By the end of the session, I was exhausted but exhilarated, knowing that with each step, I was getting closer to mastering the incredible power of the shadow elements.
But now I have to sleep for tomorrow to practice my duel element power too.