Three weeks passed in the blink of an eye as Jonathan immersed himself in relentless training. Deep within the mountain's secluded heart, he worked tirelessly, honing his skills under Liriana's watchful eye. Their efforts to blend attacks and coordinate movements bore fruit, creating a synergy between them despite the vast disparity in their power. Jonathan's determination to bridge the gap was evident in every calculated step and strike.
During this time, Jonathan achieved a major breakthrough, advancing to the Adept rank. The transformation enhanced his control over his internal energy, refining his ability to manipulate it with precision. His strength, agility, and endurance had all improved significantly, a testament to his dedication.
"It's been a long day. Perhaps we should rest now," Liriana suggested, her voice laced with exhaustion as she brushed strands of silver hair from her face.
Jonathan flexed his hand, a brilliant blue flame dancing around it, casting a cold luminescence on the cavern walls. "I have to say, this Blue Ice Dragonfire Flame is remarkable," he replied, his voice tinged with awe. "I can feel it strengthening my entire body."
The flame, a gift from Liriana, had become an integral part of Jonathan's growth. He glanced at her, recalling the moment she had entrusted him with such a dangerous and powerful force.
---
Three weeks earlier…
Jonathan stared at the glowing blue orb in Liriana's hand, his curiosity piqued. "Something to make me stronger?" he asked, his voice a mixture of excitement and hesitation. "What exactly is it?"
"This," Liriana began, holding the orb delicately, "is the Blue Ice Dragonfire Flame, a treasure cultivated through the techniques of the Iserith family. It will not only enhance your energy but also fortify your body to withstand harsher conditions."
As she pressed her palm against the orb, white flames danced around her fingers, cracking the surface to release the azure flame within. The temperature in the cave plummeted instantly, and Jonathan shivered uncontrollably.
"Why is it so cold?" he asked, his breath visible in the frigid air.
"It's the nature of the flames," Liriana replied, her tone even. "The white flames serve to stabilize the blue, making it safe for transfer. Sit down and relax—we must do this carefully."
Jonathan obeyed, though apprehension lingered. "Isn't combining flames like that dangerous?" he asked, watching the intertwining flames with wary eyes.
"One mistake, and we're both dead," she answered bluntly. "The mountain itself would crumble to ash."
Her candor sent a chill down Jonathan's spine, unrelated to the cold air. He hesitated, but her unwavering focus calmed him. Carefully, Liriana guided the blue flame toward his chest. As it made contact, Jonathan's body convulsed, and a piercing scream tore from his throat.
"Control it!" Liriana commanded, her voice cutting through his agony. "Use your inner energy to stabilize it! If you let it consume you, the backlash will destroy your body."
Jonathan clenched his fists, summoning every ounce of willpower to channel his energy. The flames raged within him like a storm, threatening to break free. Liriana's hands glowed brighter as she reinforced the transfer, her expression a mix of focus and concern.
"Did I rush him?", Liriana wondered with her voice masked in concern.
After what felt like an eternity, the tension in the air began to dissipate. Jonathan's breathing steadied, and the flames settled within him, merging seamlessly with his energy. A faint blue aura enveloped him as he stood, his body renewed.
"Remarkable," Liriana muttered, a hint of pride in her voice. "You've done it."
---
Present time…
"We need to be cautious," Liriana warned as she leaned against the cave wall. "I fear we've been discovered. Trouble is coming."
Jonathan frowned, his brow furrowed in thought. "You mean the Black Tide Sect?"
"Yes," she confirmed grimly. "They've been putting considerable effort into tracking us. I don't know what they'll send, but we should prepare for the worst."
"Elite fighters, no doubt," Jonathan replied, his voice low. "We're not ready to confront them head-on. A retreat might be our best option."
Liriana nodded. "We could take refuge in my realm for now."
Jonathan's eyes lit up with excitement. "Your realm? Are you serious?"
Liriana couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm. "Yes, but it won't be without risk. My departure from there was… complicated. If trouble arises, you may have to fight on your own. I can't afford to draw unnecessary attention."
Before Jonathan could respond, her expression darkened, her eyes narrowing. "They're here," she whispered. "Our retreat won't be simple."
Jonathan sprang to his feet and rushed toward the cave entrance. "I'll hold them off. Gather what we need and prepare to leave!" he shouted over his shoulder.
"Wait!" Liriana called after him, but he was already gone.
Outside, Jonathan descended the mountain swiftly, his senses heightened. At the base, he concealed himself among the rocks, observing the approaching group. Six figures emerged, their presence oppressive.
"Three Grandmasters, two Masters, and one Glorious," Jonathan muttered under his breath, recognizing their ranks. "They're not holding back."
He steeled himself, knowing the odds were against him. Leaping from his hiding spot, he landed before them, his aura flaring. "Intruders of the Black Tide Sect, turn back now, or face your end!" he declared, his voice firm.
One of the men scoffed. "An Adept? They sent us here for this?"
"Don't underestimate him," another warned. "He wiped out the branch with help. Stay alert, others may be lying in wait."
The leader, a towering figure with a commanding presence, gestured forward. "You two, handle him. The rest of us will maintain vigilance."
A man and a woman stepped forward, their movements fluid and precise. Jonathan watched them closely, noting their speed. To him, they moved in slow motion. As they closed the distance, he surged forward, his blue flames igniting.
In a flash, he sidestepped the woman's strike and delivered a crushing blow to the man's back, sending him staggering. The woman spun around, her blade slicing through the air, but Jonathan deflected it effortlessly with a sweep of his flame-coated arm.
The fight intensified as the duo coordinated their attacks, forcing Jonathan to stay on the defensive. Despite their strength, he held his ground, buying precious time for Liriana.
...
Back at the cave, Liriana worked quickly, gathering supplies and preparing the portal to her realm. She glanced toward the mountain base, her worry for Jonathan growing. "Just hold on," she whispered.
Jonathan, meanwhile, unleashed a surge of energy, creating a barrier of ice and flame to separate himself from his attackers. "If I can just stall them a little longer…" he thought, determination burning in his eyes.
The battle was far from over, but Jonathan knew one thing for certain he would do whatever it took to protect Liriana and ensure their escape.