The morning air was cool and invigorating as Kazuki made his way towards the training grounds. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden hue over the surroundings. The path to Hikari's house went through the local market which was bustling with people.
Since he would have to visit it sooner or later Kazuki quickly made his way over. After reaching there, he went towards the back of the house where Hikari's personal training ground were situated.
"I see you arrived early" Kazuki hears the voice from where he had just been, he quickly turned around to see Hikari standing there as if he had been there all along.
Unlike his previous outfit, Hikari was wearing fitted training outfit, in his hand was a dark wooden staff studded with a white gem.
"Is that a Luminaris Crystal?" Kazuki reflexively questioned impressed.
Mana Crystals enhance the effectiveness of magic spells by making the casting time shorter, improving the strength of spells, and making it easier to draw upon ambient mana for the activation of spell. As a result, they are very expensive.
Considering the rarity of special affinities like light and darkness, these specific Mana Crystals are significantly more costly than others.
"It sure is, the highest quality one available in this kingdom." Hikari said proudly.
As the former Hero and Sword Saint of Light, he did have the status and funds to arrange something like this.
Which made him ask something he had been wondering since he saw the sword.
"But aren't you a sword saint though, why do you have a staff?"
*ha ha ha*
The spontaneous question made Hikari laugh a little.
"What makes you think Magic Swordsman don't use other means to fight? Some actually prefer long range battles."
Hikari answers as he taps his staff on the ground.
*thud*
[Holy Sanctuary]
(Holy Sanctuary is a powerful light affinity spell that creates a sacred field imbued with divine energy. Upon casting, a radiant dome of light forms around the target area, offering several protective and restorative effects:
Healing Capabilities: The sanctuary continuously heals all allies within its boundaries, mending wounds and restoring vitality with a soothing, gentle light.
Enhanced Mana Recovery: The divine energy within the sanctuary accelerates mana recovery, allowing spellcasters to replenish their mana reserves at an increased rate, enabling sustained spellcasting during prolonged engagements.
Defense Against Enemy Attacks: The sanctuary acts as a protective barrier, reducing the damage from incoming attacks and repelling dark or malevolent forces. The light's purity disrupts hostile magic, making it difficult for enemies to penetrate the field.)
{Holy Sanctuary is a high-level spell that consumes a significant amount of mana continuously throughout its duration. Maintaining the spell requires sustained focus and mana input. If the caster's focus on maintaining the spell is broken, the sanctuary will persist for only an additional 3 seconds before dissipating.}
Kazuki observes the field around him and feels his body getting lighter and mana absorption rate increase.
'This could really reduce Mana Training time for mages if not for its high mana consumption.'
"What are you standing there for like a fool, I don't have all day to train you, Sit down there on the ground and start refining mana in this field until you can't absorb anymore" Hikari orders as he points towards the centre of the field.
"Just like I normally do?" Hikari nods.
'Alright'
*sighs*
"While you are doing that, I'll also ask you everything you know about mana."
Kazuki grumbles before hiding his discontent and forcing his mind to not only absorb mana but also pay attention to Hikari.
Hikari chuckles before starting of with something basic.
"What is Mana according to you?"
Kazuki tries to think of the best way to describe what he feels like is the best interpretation.
"Mana is an intrinsic part of nature, a fundamental force that allows individuals to manipulate the very laws of the world to their suiting. This innate ability to control and utilize mana is what enables the casting of magic spells. Mana flows through all living things and pervades the environment, creating a web of magical potential that mages can tap into."
"Correct, now what do you call a mana heart?"
"The core of one's magical abilities lies within their heart. This is where mana is refined and stored, creating a reservoir of magical energy. The heart, acting as the central hub, allows for a more efficient and potent use of mana compared to drawing it from the ambient or atmospheric sources around us. Manipulating the mana within one's own heart is more straightforward and reliable, providing a stable source of power for spellcasting."
"And why is that more efficient?"
"Mana within the heart is intimately linked with the individual's unique mana signature. Each person has a distinct mana signature that aligns naturally with their internal reservoir, enabling more precise and effective manipulation of magic.
In contrast, ambient or natural mana lacks a specific signature and can be utilized by all living beings including beasts. While it can be utilized by anyone with magical affinity, its efficiency is reduced because it must be adapted and channeled through the caster's internal mana framework."
"What is the Natural Mana Training Method?"
"As time passes and an individual ages, the mana stored within their heart naturally strengthens. This gradual enhancement not only bolsters the heart itself but also fortifies the mana veins that are intricately connected to it. These veins act as conduits, distributing mana throughout the body, making it easier to access and control.
With the continuous strengthening of the heart and its associated mana veins, the capacity to store mana increases. This means that over time, a mage can harness a greater quantity of mana, allowing them to cast more powerful and sustained spells. This growth is a testament to the deepening connection between the mage and the natural force of mana, reflecting their dedication and proficiency in the magical arts.
A mage does need to circulate his mana throughout his body, but this is considered the Natural Mana Training Method."
This discussion session went on for 2 more hours before it ended.