Chapter 81
"Then, let's start with hunting some monsters," I said as I glanced at the map I carried. The forest was vast and full of unknown dangers.
But danger meant the potential to become stronger. After all, how could one become stronger without putting oneself into dangerous situations?
[There are a few places I've noticed,] she said, her voice thoughtful. [They're not marked on the map, but I've sensed strong presences there—likely the territory of powerful monsters. If you're looking for a challenge, those places might be worth exploring.]
I nodded, tracing a few points on the map where the terrain seemed more rugged, more likely to be home to the kind of creatures that would help us both grow. "Let's start with these locations," I said, pointing to a spot not too far from our current position. "It's marked as a rocky outcrop, and if I'm right, there should be some beasts hiding in those crevices."
[Good choice,] Vitaliara purred. [The rocky terrain will likely house creatures that are territorial and strong. Be prepared; they won't go down easily.]
"That's exactly what I'm counting on," I replied. "The tougher the fight, the more I'll learn."
With a plan in mind, we began to make our way through the forest, moving quietly but swiftly. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves, a constant reminder that this was a place where life and death were inextricably linked.
After some time, we reached the first spot on the map—a rugged area where jagged rocks jutted out from the ground like the teeth of some ancient beast. The air here felt different, heavier, charged with the presence of something powerful.
"This is the place," I whispered, scanning the area for any signs of movement. And while doing so, I closed my eyes.
[What are you doing?] Vitaliara asked. It seemed she had noticed that I had slowed my movements.
"I am going to try something new."
I let my mind drift back to a memory that had stayed with me ever since my training with Master. It was one of those lessons that had seemed impossible at the time, but now, with my recent breakthrough to 3-star, it was finally within reach.
////////
Master stood before me, the wind gently rustling the leaves around us. "Watch closely," he had said, his voice calm and authoritative. "To truly master your mana, you must learn to merge it with the elements around you. The wind is one of the easiest elements to start with because it is ever-present and fluid."
He extended his hand, and I felt a subtle shift in the air. His mana flowed from his body, merging seamlessly with the breeze. The wind seemed to respond to his command, swirling and dancing around him as if it were an extension of his own being.
"Feel the wind," he instructed, his eyes closing in concentration. "Become one with it. Let your mana flow into the air, not as a separate entity, but as part of the wind itself."
I watched in awe as the wind around him seemed to hum with energy. It moved with purpose, wrapping around trees, brushing against leaves, and creating a symphony of soft, rustling sounds.
"This technique allows you to extend your senses beyond your physical body," Master explained. "While many Awakened spread their senses to detect the mana of others, this method uses the wind to perceive the very bodies of your targets. It's a more refined, precise way to gather information."
I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and imagined myself becoming one with the wind. Slowly, I felt my mana seep into the air, merging with the breeze in my imagination.
At that time, I imagined the sensation to be strange but exhilarating. The wind was no longer just a natural element; it was an extension of myself.
At least, that was how I imagined it. Since I was not able to expand my mana outside of my body at that time, I naturally was not able to understand and experience it completely, but that was fine for me.
"This technique will allow you to detect the presence of others with great accuracy," Master explained. "You can use it to count patrols, detect hidden threats, and even anticipate movements. But most importantly, you can use it to sense monsters when they are around. Everything has a physical form, and no traces can be completely removed. The world is bound by physical rules; never forget that."
///////
I opened my eyes and let out a slow breath, centering myself in the present. At that time, I hadn't been able to fully grasp the technique. My mana had been too raw, too uncontrolled. But now, I had the strength and control needed to attempt it.
I closed my eyes once more, allowing myself to focus entirely on the wind around me. The forest was alive with the subtle sounds of nature—the rustling of leaves, the distant calls of birds, and the soft whisper of the breeze as it moved through the trees.
I needed to merge with it, to let my mana flow into the wind, not as a separate force but as part of the natural world.
Vitaliara remained perched on my shoulder, her eyes watching me intently. [What are you doing, Lucavion?] she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and a hint of concern.
She wasn't sure what I was attempting, and I could sense her uncertainty.
"I'm trying to merge my mana with the wind," I whispered, my voice barely audible. "It's something my master taught me, a way to extend my senses beyond my physical body."
At first, the process felt awkward, like trying to move a limb that had been asleep. My mana clashed with the natural flow of the wind, creating small disruptions in the air around me.
But I persisted, focusing on the sensation of the breeze, on the way it moved through the forest. Slowly, I began to adjust, letting my mana seep into the air in a more natural, fluid manner.
The wind responded, carrying my energy with it as it swirled through the trees. I could feel the way it brushed against the bark, the way it flowed through the leaves, the way it wrapped around the rocks, and the hidden creatures lurking in the shadows.
The sensation was strange, just as I had imagined it years ago, but now it was real—tangible.
Vitaliara, who had been observing in silence, suddenly shifted her stance, her tail flicking with interest. [I see…] she murmured, a note of understanding in her voice. [You're using the wind to expand your senses. It's similar to what some monsters do, those who are deeply connected to the elements around them.]
Her words encouraged me, and I pushed further, extending my mana through the breeze. I could feel the physical forms of the creatures hidden within the rocky outcrop—their bodies solid and distinct, marked by the subtle disturbances they caused in the wind's flow.
Every rock, every tree, every creature in the area became part of the intricate network of information the wind provided.
[You're doing well,] Vitaliara continued, her tone thoughtful as she analyzed my progress.
[But be careful not to force it. The wind is a delicate element—it flows naturally, without resistance. Your mana should do the same. Let it blend with the breeze; let it become the breeze.]
"Let it become the breeze…." Just as she said, I thought for a second. What was a breeze?
A small amount of wind flowed.
'A small amount…..'
Now then, I slowly understand what could be improved.
'The mana amount should be smaller…..Like a thread that is extending….'
I focused on my core, on the swirling energy within me. Instead of pushing out a large amount of mana, I began to release it in a thin, controlled stream. The mana flowed out like a thread, barely noticeable but enough to merge with the wind.
'Yes…like this,' I thought, feeling the difference immediately. The wind didn't resist this time; it accepted the thread of mana, weaving it into its flow as if it belonged there all along. The sensation was different now, smoother, more connected.
The wind carried the thin thread of my mana, extending my senses further into the forest. I could feel the gentle rustle of leaves, the soft brush of the wind against the rocks, and, most importantly, the subtle disturbances caused by the creatures hiding within the shadows.
Each one was distinct, their presence made clear by the way they interrupted the natural flow of the breeze.
[That's it,] Vitaliara said approvingly, sensing the change in my technique. [Now your mana moves with the wind, not against it. You've found the balance.]
'So that was how it was….'
I thought.
The technique was working, and I was beginning to understand how to use it effectively. It wasn't just about extending my senses—it was about becoming one with the wind, about letting my mana flow as naturally as the air around me.
"I can feel them," I mumbled. "The creatures… they're hiding in the rocks, trying to blend in with the environment. But they can't hide from this."
[Good,] Vitaliara purred, her tone laced with satisfaction. [You're starting to see the world as it truly is.]
I nodded, focusing on the creatures I could now sense so clearly.
"Let's start then."
With a deep breath, I began to move, my steps silent and deliberate. The wind guided me, my mana thread still woven into its flow, keeping me connected to everything around me.
I approached the first creature, a hulking beast with rough, stone-like skin, its body perfectly camouflaged against the rocky terrain.
It hadn't noticed me yet, its attention focused elsewhere, but I could sense its readiness to pounce at the first sign of prey.
From now on, the battlefield would go on.
Chapter 82
In the days that followed, Lucavion's life became a cycle of relentless training and brutal combat. The Shadowed Thicket, with all its dangers, served as both his proving ground and his teacher.
He moved through the forest like a phantom, his senses heightened by the wind technique he had finally begun to master. Each day, he ventured deeper into the territory of the forest's most fearsome creatures, pushing himself to his limits in an effort to hone his skills and grow stronger.
The first beast he encountered after that initial rocky outcrop was a creature with skin as tough as stone, perfectly camouflaged against its surroundings.
It was a predator lurking in the shadows, waiting for an unsuspecting victim to wander too close. But Lucavion was no ordinary prey. The wind whispered to him, guiding his movements and revealing the hidden dangers before they could strike.
His first battle was fierce, the creature's strength formidable.
Its stone-like skin deflected most of Lucavion's strikes, and its claws left deep gouges in the earth as it lunged at him. But Lucavion's movements were fluid and precise, and he used the terrain to his advantage. He darted between the rocks, striking at the creature's vulnerable spots, wearing it down little by little.
Finally, with a well-timed thrust of his estoc, he pierced the beast's heart, and it collapsed with a thunderous crash.
As it died, Lucavion felt the familiar coldness of death's mana rising from the corpse, and he absorbed it into his core, feeding the vortex that was the Flame of Equinox.
This became his routine. Each day, he sought out new challenges, new creatures to test his strength against.
The forest was teeming with life, and with every battle, Lucavion's connection to the Flame of Equinox grew stronger. He hunted beasts of all kinds—massive wolves with razor-sharp fangs, serpentine creatures that slithered through the underbrush with lethal grace, and even monstrous birds that swooped down from the treetops with talons like steel.
Every battle was a lesson. He learned to harness the Flame of Equinox more effectively, to balance the chaos of the black flame with the order of the vortex. The white-hot fire of life, channeled through Vitaliara's guidance, continued to blend with the abyssal energy, creating a power that was as fierce as it was controlled.
The technique was demanding, the energy wild and difficult to control, but Lucavion persevered. With each victory, he grew more attuned to the duality within him, and the vortex in his core became more defined and more stable.
The layers of the vortex began to take shape, each one representing a deeper level of mastery over the Flame of Equinox.
His physical abilities also improved as his body adapted to the rigorous demands of the forest. His muscles grew stronger, his reflexes sharper.
The constant battles honed his instincts, making him quicker and more efficient in combat. He learned to conserve his energy, to strike with precision rather than brute force, and to use his environment to his advantage.
There were moments of pain, moments when the wild energy threatened to overwhelm him, and the chaos within the Flame of Equinox surged out of control.
But Vitaliara was always there, guiding him and helping him find the balance once more. Her presence was a steadying force, and her own recovery began to progress as well.
Together, they explored the depths of the Shadowed Thicket, pushing further into its dangerous heart.
They encountered creatures that tested the very limits of their strength—beasts with venomous fangs, creatures with impenetrable hides, and even ancient predators that had claimed the forest as their own for centuries.
But no matter how powerful the foe, Lucavion faced them all with the determination to grow stronger.
With each battle, he absorbed more of the death mana, and the Flame of Equinox continued to evolve. The black flame within him burned brighter, the vortex in his core spinning faster, more stable.
Days turned into weeks, and the transformation was undeniable. Lucavion had become a force to be reckoned with, a warrior forged in the crucible of the forest's dangers.
The young man who had once struggled to control his power was now a master of his own destiny, his connection to the Flame of Equinox deep and unbreakable.
*******
The young man with slightly long hair walked beneath the dense canopy of the forest, his movements fluid and precise.
His clothes, however, told a different story. They were haphazard, riddled with countless holes and tears, a testament to the battles he had fought and the dangers he had faced. The once sturdy fabric now hung loosely from his frame, the edges frayed and worn. Yet, despite the state of his attire, there was a sharpness to his presence, an aura of quiet strength and readiness.
A long and thin sword rested in the sheath at his side, its hilt within easy reach of his hand. Lucavion's fingers hovered near the weapon, instinctively prepared to draw it at a moment's notice.
The blade was his constant companion, a tool of survival, and a symbol of his mastery over the life-and-death forces within him.
His face, in stark contrast to his battered clothing, was surprisingly clean. Despite the weeks spent in the wilderness, there was little sign of the harsh life he had endured.
His skin was smooth, unmarred by dirt or stubble as if he had somehow managed to maintain a semblance of order amid the chaos.
His hair, which had grown longer during his time in the forest, was neatly tied behind his head in a ponytail, keeping it out of his eyes and giving him a focused, determined appearance.
Surrounding him was a faint, slightly purplish energy, a manifestation of the [Devourer of the Stars], his master's legacy.
It pulsed gently around him.
The energy was a testament to the power he had cultivated, the mastery he had achieved over the forces that had once threatened to tear him apart.
As he walked forward, the energy swirled subtly around him, a reminder of the strength that now resided within his core.
Beside him, a sleek and agile cat bounded through the underbrush, her movements graceful and almost playful. Vitaliara had regained much of her former vitality, her fur gleaming with health.
The wounds that had once marred her body were healed, and there was a brightness in her eyes that spoke of renewed strength.
She leaped effortlessly from rock to rock, her body a blur of motion as she explored their surroundings.
Her presence was no longer that of a wounded, desperate creature but of a proud and powerful guardian. The bond between her and Lucavion had only grown stronger, and she seemed to revel in the freedom and strength that the forest had restored to her.
"Let's find something to eat," Lucavion said, his voice calm and measured as he surveyed the forest with sharp, discerning eyes.
[Are you planning to challenge it now?]
In his head, a voice echoed as the cat stopped her tracks to look at him.
"Indeed. After filling my stomach."
[Are you sure?]
"I am."
Lucavion's gaze remained steady as he spoke, his voice tinged with determination. "After spending the last few months training, I've developed the [Flame of Equinox] to its maximum potential. I'm almost ready to form the [First Vortex]."
Vitaliara paused, her sharp eyes studying him intently. [But in the past three weeks, all your attempts have met with failure, haven't they?] she asked, her tone more thoughtful than accusatory.
He nodded slowly. "Yes. At first, I couldn't understand why I kept hitting a wall, why the vortex refused to fully form. But then, after countless failed attempts, I realized the reason."
[And what did you discover?] Vitaliara inquired, though she already had an inkling of what his answer might be.
Lucavion's expression grew resolute as he continued, "The monsters I've been hunting… the death mana they leave behind is simply not enough. It lacks the intensity and chaos needed to push me past the threshold.
The [First Vortex] requires more than just quantity—it demands a chaotic force, a raw power that can only be found in something truly strong, something that challenges the very limits of my strength."
Vitaliara's gaze sharpened, and she nodded in understanding. [So, that is why you are planning to challenge it now.]
"Exactly," Lucavion affirmed. "The creatures I've faced so far were formidable, but they weren't enough. If I want to succeed in forming the [First Vortex], I need to hunt something with a massive amount of mana—something that can provide the level of chaos required for the vortex to fully take shape."
He paused for a moment, raising his head to see the place.
Lucavion lifted his gaze toward the towering peak of the mountain ahead, his eyes narrowing as he took in the formidable terrain. The summit was jagged and rough, with craggy rocks jutting out like the fangs of some ancient beast. The air was thin here, and the wind howled around the stones, carrying with it a biting chill that cut through even his thick clothes.
The mountain's peak was surrounded by an almost otherworldly aura, a sense of foreboding that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. There, nestled at the very top, was a small crater—a shallow depression in the earth that looked as if it had been gouged out by a tremendous force.
The edges of the crater were lined with sharp rocks, and within its depths, a strange, pulsating light could be seen, faintly illuminating the otherwise barren landscape.
Lucavion knew what lay within that crater. The creature he sought, the one that would provide him with the chaos and mana he needed, resided there.
It was a beast that had been marked on his map.
"Lesser Abyssal Wyrm."
Chapter 83
"Lesser Abyssal Wyrm," Lucavion repeated, the name rolling off his tongue like a challenge issued to the world itself.
Vitaliara glanced at him, her eyes narrowing with concern. [Are you certain about this, Lucavion? The Abyssal Wyrm isn't just any monster. It's a peak 3-star creature at the very pinnacle of power in this part of the forest. Even with all the progress you've made, this fight will be different.]
Being one of the mythical monsters, Vitaliara had recovered a part of her strength. But it was only a fraction of it as they had yet to find any life-concentrated locations.
But there was something that she could provide even without her strength returning. It was her knowledge of monsters.
With how she had lived in the forest, she was exceptionally knowledgeable about the monsters with life and death attributes.
Especially the monsters of Abyss.
Lucavion nodded, his expression resolute. "I know, Vitaliara. I've been avoiding the Shattered Vale for that very reason. The creatures there are on a different level, most of them rumored to be at least 4-star strength. But this area… I've pushed myself here, but it's no longer enough. I need a true challenge if I'm going to break through."
He took a deep breath, steadying himself as he continued. "I've cleared out most of the monsters in this part of the forest. The fights have become too predictable, too easy. I don't want to get arrogant, but I need something that will push me to my limits. The Abyssal Wyrm is that challenge."
Lucavion's eyes gleamed with determination as he added, "The Abyssal Wyrm is a creature of the abyss, Vitaliara. If what you've told me is true, then there's a chance I can absorb its energy—or at the very least, the death energy in that place must be stronger. The Abyssal Wyrm might be exactly what I need to complete the [First Vortex]."
Vitaliara remained silent for a moment, her gaze sharp as she assessed Lucavion's words. [You're right about that,] she finally said. [The Abyssal Wyrm's connection to the abyss means it's surrounded by powerful death energy. If you can survive the battle and absorb that energy, it could provide the catalyst you need.]
Lucavion nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation building within him. "That's what I'm counting on. I've been preparing for this, and now it's time to put everything to the test."
[Sigh…..] A heavy sigh echoed in his head. As expected, Vitaliara did not want him to force himself to do such a thing, and that was understandable.
After all, knowing that she had once lost her contractor, she would not want the same thing to happen again.
But at the same time, Lucavion was not someone that would back away.
Once he made the decision, that would be the end of it, especially after learning that the monster there was Lesser Abyssal Wyrm.
"Anyway. Let's not think about that for the time being. I need to fill my stomach first. You are also hungry, no?"
Deciding to lighten the mood a little, Lucavion smiled.
"What do you want to eat? I will treat you what you want."
Vitaliara looked up at Lucavion with a gleam in her eyes. [If you're offering, then I'd like to eat a Stormclaw Hare.]
Lucavion blinked, a chuckle escaping his lips. "A Stormclaw Hare, huh? You don't make things easy, do you? Those are tricky to catch, and they live quite a distance from here. But if that's what you want, I'll get it for you."
Stormclaw Hares were known for their incredible speed and agility, making them difficult prey even for seasoned hunters. They were also quite rare, their habitats usually being deep within the forest's most treacherous terrains.
The effort required to capture one was considerable, but Lucavion wasn't one to back down from a challenge, especially not when it came to fulfilling a promise to his companion.
[You asked for it,] Vitaliara responded, her tone teasing yet appreciative. [But you should know, they're delicious. The energy they contain is refreshing, even for a being like me.]
"Alright, alright," Lucavion said with a smile, "Let's get moving then."
They made their way through the forest, and Lucavion's steps were quick and deliberate as he navigated the terrain.
He had become intimately familiar with the layout of this part of the forest, and it didn't take long for him to find the area where the Stormclaw Hares were known to reside.
As he approached the dense thicket where the hares were most likely hiding, Lucavion closed his eyes and allowed his mana to flow into the wind.
Over the past weeks of intense training, he had honed this technique to near perfection. His mana merged seamlessly with the breeze, spreading out like a fine web, detecting the slightest disturbances in the air.
The forest seemed to come alive around him as his senses extended; the rustle of leaves, the scurrying of small animals, the subtle shifts in the wind—all of it became part of his awareness. And then, he felt it—the faint but distinct presence of a Stormclaw Hare, its rapid heartbeat and quick movements giving it away.
'There you are,' he thought, a satisfied smile tugging at his lips.
Moving with the stealth he had painstakingly perfected, Lucavion approached the hare's location. He kept his presence low, his mana barely a whisper in the air, ensuring that the creature wouldn't sense him until it was too late.
When he was close enough, he stopped and focused on his core, drawing upon the energy within.
He channeled it into his estoc, the blade beginning to glow faintly with a soft, silver light.
「Void Starfall Blade: Starlight Needle」
–SWOOSH!
With a swift, precise motion, he released the condensed beam of starlight, a thin, almost invisible ray of energy that shot forward like a needle.
THUD!
The beam struck the Stormclaw Hare before it even had a chance to react, piercing its heart in an instant. The creature collapsed, lifeless, before it even realized it was being hunted.
"Huuh…"
Lucavion let out a breath, lowering his blade as he approached the fallen hare.
"That was easier than I thought," he said with a grin, picking up the creature and examining it. The hare's body was still warm, its fur soft and unmarred by any visible wound.
[Impressive,] Vitaliara commented, her voice carrying a note of approval. [You've gotten even better at this.]
That was quite expected. After all, he had all the time to focus on his [Void Starfall Blade] and his swordsmanship.
Lucavion shrugged modestly. "I've had a lot of practice. Plus, it's nice to see that the techniques Master taught me are really paying off."
With the techniques that his master left behind, with his old companion beside him, it was easy to get feedback.
"What do you think of my performance? How was it compared to master?"
Vitaliara finished her meal and looked up at Lucavion, her eyes filled with a mix of nostalgia and critical analysis. [Your performance was good, Lucavion, no doubt about it. But if you're asking me to compare you to Gerald… well, you still have a ways to go.]
Lucavion raised an eyebrow, curious but not surprised. "Oh? How so?"
[Gerald,] Vitaliara began, her voice tinged with a mix of admiration and fondness, [could have taken down that Stormclaw Hare without even drawing his blade. He had a way of using his mana so efficiently, so precisely, that his presence alone could overwhelm creatures like this. He could manipulate the air, the earth—everything around him—until his target had no choice but to surrender.]
Lucavion chuckled, shaking his head. "That's something only someone at the 4-star level could achieve. I'm not quite there yet."
[No, Gerald would have done it even while being a 3-star.]
"That means he was a mage?"
[Kind of.]
"I see….Then does that mean Master did not teach me the complete technique he had used?"
[Most likely. He has a talent for using mana. No, it was not a normal talent. He was the greatest genius that I had ever seen.]
'Not that you are too much different.'
She thought but did not say it outright.
[Because of his talent, he was able to use such a different mana that nobody in the world had used. But you….your condition is unique just like him, so most likely he had altered the technique to teach you.]
Lucavion considered Vitaliara's words carefully. "So, Master modified his technique for me? That makes sense. He always had a way of tailoring his teachings to fit the individual."
[Indeed,] Vitaliara responded. [Gerald understood that no two people are the same, especially when it comes to mana manipulation. His ability to adapt most likely results in his ability to teach you. He knew that your reversed mana meridians made you different, so he adjusted the techniques accordingly.]
Lucavion nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I've always wondered why certain aspects of the technique felt like they were tailored just for me. Now I understand why."
[But don't think that means you're lacking in any way,] Vitaliara added quickly. [On the contrary, it means that Gerald saw something in you—something special, just like he had. Your unique condition might be challenging, but it also gives you the potential that others don't have.]
'Especially that sword in your hand…..Even Gerald would never win against you if you just clashed swords…..'
She looked at the sword. There were countless different marks on it, showing countless battles it had endured.
Yet the sword stood there.
Lucavion smiled faintly, the weight of his master's teachings settling on his shoulders. "I know."
After all, his master was the first person to start believing him for the potential he held.
"That is why I will not disappoint him."
With that, he stood up. After all, he had already filled his stomach as well.
"Let's go. You have already finished your meal."
[You really are eager to go.]
"I am."
As Lucavion and Vitaliara began their ascent toward the peak where the Lesser Abyssal Wyrm resided, the atmosphere around them gradually shifted, becoming darker and more foreboding. The path was rugged and treacherous, lined with jagged rocks that jutted out at odd angles, forcing them to navigate carefully to avoid slipping or cutting themselves on the sharp edges.
The air grew colder, the wind sharper, carrying with it a sense of dread that seemed to intensify with every step they took. It was as if the very mountain itself was warning them of the danger that lay ahead.
As they climbed higher, Lucavion's sharp eyes caught sight of something scattered along the path—carcasses and skeletons of various monsters, some fresh, others little more than bleached bones. The remains were strewn across the rocky terrain, a grim reminder of the power of the creature they were about to face.
Vitaliara, perched on his shoulder, gazed at the scene with a mix of wariness and recognition. [The Abyssal Wyrm's territory…] she murmured. [It's marking its domain, warning others to stay away. These creatures were likely foolish enough to challenge it and paid the ultimate price.]
Lucavion nodded, his expression serious as he surveyed the display of strength. But then he smirked.
"A mere beast dares to create a territory…..I can't wait to trample on its neck once I kill it."
His smirk was wide.
'Sigh…..He really changed personality once again….'
Vitaliara couldn't help but cringe.
Chapter 84
"A mere beast dares to create a territory…..I can't wait to trample on its neck once I kill it."
As Lucavion continued his ascent, his smirk only widened, a sharp contrast to the serious demeanor he had just displayed moments ago.
His eyes, usually filled with determination, now gleamed with a fierce, almost predatory light. His hand rested confidently on the hilt of his estoc, the weapon that had become an extension of himself, a symbol of his growing power and relentless ambition.
Vitaliara, perched on his shoulder, observed the transformation with a mix of concern and understanding.
She had seen this change in him before—this shift in his demeanor, this surge of arrogance that seemed to take hold whenever he prepared for battle. It was as if the act of facing an enemy, the thrill of combat, awakened something primal within him.
[You've changed again,] she noted, her voice tinged with a resigned sigh. [It's as if you become a different person the moment you grab your sword.]
Lucavion's smirk deepened, his eyes narrowing with a sharp, confident edge. "When I face an opponent, I don't just fight to win," he replied, his voice low and intense. "I fight to dominate."
His steps were deliberate, each one resonating with the confidence of a man who knew his own strength and relished in the thought of proving it.
The carcasses and bones that littered the path were no longer just signs of danger; to Lucavion, they were the trophies of his soon-to-be-victory, the evidence of his impending conquest.
[You really do change when you're like this,] Vitaliara mused her tone, a mix of exasperation and a hint of admiration. [You become… arrogant.]
Lucavion's eyes flashed with fierce pride. "Arrogance is only a flaw if you can't back it up," he said, his grip tightening on the hilt of his estoc. "And considering I am alive till this point….Things do seem like they are not working against me."
Vitaliara couldn't deny that there was truth in his words. She had witnessed his growth, seen the way he had honed his skills and refined his techniques.
Lucavion was no longer the uncertain young man she had first met; he had become a warrior, one who embraced the challenges before him with a boldness that bordered on recklessness.
[Just be careful,] she advised, her voice softening slightly. [The Abyssal Wyrm is not like the other monsters you've faced. It's a creature of pure abyssal energy, and its strength is formidable. Don't let your confidence blind you to the danger.]
Lucavion's smirk softened into a determined smile, a flicker of his more familiar self shining through. "I'm not blind to the danger."
[So, you feel fear.]
"Those who don't feel fear when facing an enemy are the ones who die first. That is what I had learned from the battlefield."
Vitaliara couldn't help but shake her head, her tail flicking slightly in exasperation. [You talk as if you've seen it all, Lucavion.]
Lucavion's smile remained, but there was a hint of something deeper in his eyes, something that spoke of past battles and hard-won experiences. "I may not have seen it all, but I've seen enough."
RUMBLE!
Before Vitaliara could respond, the ground beneath them trembled violently.
SCREECH!
The air was suddenly filled with a screech that echoed through the mountains, a sound that sent a chill down even Lucavion's spine. The atmosphere grew tense, the foreboding presence of something powerful drawing closer.
SCHLINK!
Without hesitation, Lucavion's hand moved to his estoc, the blade flashing in the dim light as he drew it from its sheath. His senses sharpened, every muscle in his body tensing in preparation for the inevitable confrontation.
SWOSOH!
From one of the carcasses scattered along the path, something dark and swift launched itself toward him with a feral snarl—a [Shadow Stalker], its eyes gleaming with predatory intent.
"Tsk."
Lucavion's response was instantaneous. His estoc moved in a blur, the blade slicing through the air with precision honed by countless battles.
SLASH!
There was a brief moment of resistance as the steel met flesh, and then the Shadow Stalker's momentum faltered.
THUD!
The beast landed heavily on the ground; its body split cleanly in two by the force of Lucavion's strike.
It twitched once, then lay still, its blood pooling around it.
"As expected….There are always some parasites wandering around like this."
[You indeed got stronger.]
Lucavion sheathed his estoc, his gaze never leaving the direction of the Abyssal Wyrm's lair. "Strength alone isn't enough," he replied. "It's about knowing when to strike, how to use the opponent's own momentum against them. That's what keeps you alive."
As the echoes of the screech faded, the mountain seemed to fall into an uneasy silence, as if the very land itself was holding its breath.
But then, as if triggered by some unseen force, the stillness of the mountain was shattered by a deafening roar that echoed through the craggy peaks.
The sound was deep and resonant, a powerful, guttural bellow that seemed to shake the very foundations of the earth.
It was the unmistakable cry of the Abyssal Wyrm.
–SCREECH!
Lucavion paused, his eyes narrowing as he listened to the beast's roar.
"The beast…." There was a familiarity in that sound, something primal that stirred deep within him. "It is challenging me," he said, a grim smile forming on his lips.
Vitaliara looked at him, her eyes wide with surprise. [How do you know that?]
Lucavion didn't turn to face her; his gaze remained fixed on the direction from which the roar had come. "I can feel it," he said quietly, his voice steady. "It's something I've always felt when I'm about to face an opponent alone. It's like a call—an invitation to a duel."
Vitaliara could sense the intensity in Lucavion's demeanor, the way his entire being seemed to resonate with the energy of the impending battle. [You've felt this before?] she asked, her tone curious but also concerned.
Lucavion nodded. "Every time I've faced a strong opponent, I've felt this… connection. It's like the world narrows down to just me and them. There's nothing else—no distractions, no doubts. Just the fight."
[You really are something.]
"Master also scolded me a lot. But, then, he did not have any choice but to accept it."
[Gerald did?]
"He did. But what can I do?" Lucavion smiled. "This is what makes me who I am."
With that, he reached the top of the mountain, his steps steady and sure as he neared the summit. The wind howled around him, carrying with it the scent of blood and decay—a grim reminder of the countless lives that had been lost on this unforgiving peak.
As he took his final steps onto the plateau, the sight that greeted him was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
Before him lay a massive crater, its edges jagged and rough, as if the earth itself had been torn apart by some colossal force.
The crater was filled with the remnants of past battles—countless skeletons and carcasses littered the ground, the remains of monsters that had once roamed this mountain.
The bones were bleached white by the elements, their hollow eyes staring up at the sky as if in eternal lament.
But it wasn't just the sheer number of remains that caught Lucavion's attention. Scattered throughout the crater were massive thorns, each one as thick as a man's arm and as tall as a tree.
These thorns jutted out from the ground at odd angles, skewering the skulls of fallen beasts. The sight was both macabre and imposing, a clear indication that this place was not meant for the living.
Vitaliara's eyes narrowed as she took in the scene. [This is the Wyrm's lair,] she murmured, her voice tense. [Those thorns… they're not natural. They're the Wyrm's doing, a manifestation of its abyssal energy. This creature doesn't just kill—it revels in death, in the suffering of its prey.]
Lucavion's expression remained calm as he surveyed the area. The abyssal energy here was palpable, a heavy presence that weighed down on him like a thick fog.
But rather than intimidating him, it made him feel like he was in his home.
This was the challenge he had been seeking, the ultimate test of his strength and his mastery of the [Flame of Equinox].
"This is it," Lucavion said, his voice low but firm. "The Abyssal Wyrm is close. I can feel its presence… watching us."
He stepped closer to the edge of the crater, his eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of movement.
"Are you angry that I stepped into your territory?"
The thorns, the bones, the aura of death that hung over this place—as if to remind him that he was now in the beast's presence.
"Well….If there are no contestants like me, you will have no choice but to hunt down. So, please, don't be angry."
As Lucavion's words faded into the wind, the silence of the mountain was shattered by a sudden, ear-piercing screech that reverberated through the air.
Before he could react, a massive shadow loomed over him, and the ground beneath his feet trembled violently.
SCREECH!
The beast made its appearance.
Chapter 85
SCREECH!
The Lesser Abyssal Wyrm burst forth from the depths of the crater, its massive body moving with a speed that belied its size.
The creature was a terrifying sight to behold—its scales glistened with an oily black sheen, and its eyes burned with a malevolent crimson light.
The Wyrm's maw opened wide, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth as it lunged toward Lucavion with a ferocious snarl.
SLAM!
The force of the Wyrm's strike sent Lucavion flying backward, his body crashing into the jagged rocks at the edge of the crater.
Pain exploded in his chest as the impact knocked the wind out of him, and for a moment, the world spun in a dizzying blur.
"Damn… fast."
Lucavion gritted his teeth, struggling to regain his footing as the Wyrm coiled its massive body around the crater, its movements swift and fluid.
The creature's sheer size and speed were overwhelming, and it was clear that this was no ordinary opponent. The Wyrm was a creature born of the abyss, a force of pure, unrelenting power.
Lucavion raised his estoc just in time to block another strike from the Wyrm's tail, the impact sending shockwaves through his arms.
The force of the blow drove him to one knee, and he could feel the pressure of the Wyrm's attack bearing down on him.
[Lucavion!] Vitaliara's voice rang out in his mind, a mix of urgency and concern. [This is no ordinary foe! You must be careful!]
"I know," Lucavion muttered through gritted teeth, his eyes narrowing as he studied the Wyrm's movements.
The creature was relentless, its attacks coming from all angles with a speed that left little room for error.
The Wyrm lunged again, its jaws snapping shut with a deafening crash mere inches from Lucavion's face. He rolled to the side, barely avoiding the creature's deadly bite, and quickly countered with a swift strike to the Wyrm's exposed side.
CLANG!
The blade of his estoc met the Wyrm's scales with a sharp metallic clang, but it barely left a scratch.
The Wyrm's armor was far tougher than he had anticipated, and his weapon seemed almost ineffective against the creature's hardened hide.
[Its scales are too thick,] Vitaliara warned, her voice tinged with frustration. [You need to find a weak spot!]
"Sigh…." At that moment, a heavy sigh escaped from his mouth. "Vitaliara, please be quiet."
Vitaliara was taken aback by Lucavion's sudden command, her eyes widening in surprise. [Huh?] she blinked, her voice filled with confusion and concern.
But Lucavion didn't waver. His expression hardened, his focus sharpening as he fixed his gaze on the Wyrm. "I need to focus," he said, his voice low and intense. "This is a one-on-one fight. Don't interrupt me."
There was a finality to his words, a determination that left no room for argument. Vitaliara felt a pang of guilt, realizing that she had been unintentionally disrupting his concentration.
She had seen this side of Lucavion before—the unyielding focus, the singular drive to overcome his opponent without distraction.
She sighed inwardly, her tail flicking with a mixture of resignation and understanding. [You're right,] she admitted. [I'll stay quiet. Just… be careful.]
Though she also noted what he said, that was for another time, not now.
Lucavion didn't respond immediately. His entire being was now honed in on the Wyrm, his mind working at a rapid pace to analyze every movement, every opening.
The heavy sigh he had let out earlier seemed to have released the last of his tension, leaving behind only a razor-sharp focus.
Vitaliara watched him in silence, her usual commentary withheld. She knew Lucavion well enough to understand that when he entered this state, there was no breaking through.
He was in his element now, and the best thing she could do was to trust him.
SWOOSH!
The Wyrm lunged again, its massive form moving with terrifying speed, but Lucavion was ready.
A blackish-colored starlight started oozing from him. His eyes, which were usually pitch black, were now filled with a purplish light.
「Void Starfall Blade, Starsurge」
The blade moved with fluid grace, slicing through the air as if it were an extension of Lucavion's very soul.
The Wyrm, undeterred by the change in its opponent, lunged forward with another ferocious strike, its jaws snapping shut with enough force to crush stone.
'I can already see that.'
But Lucavion was faster this time with his reaction.
His estoc, now imbued with the power of the [Void Starfall Blade], danced in his hands, the starlight trailing behind each movement like a comet streaking across the night sky.
CLANG!
The blade met the Wyrm's scales, and this time, the impact was different. The starlight-infused estoc sliced through the air with a sharp, resonant note, its edge cutting through the Wyrm's armor with a precision that defied logic.
Sparks flew as the blade met resistance, but it pressed on, carving a deep gash into the Wyrm's side.
"SCREECH!"
The creature let out a deafening roar of pain, its massive body writhing as it tried to shake off the attack. But Lucavion was relentless.
He pressed forward, his movements fluid and controlled, each strike of the [Void Starfall Blade] delivered with lethal accuracy.
「Void Starfall Blade. Eclipse Star Trail.」
He whispered the command under his breath, and the starlight around him intensified. The blade in his hand began to pulse with energy, the light condensing into a concentrated point at the tip.
With a powerful thrust, Lucavion drove the blade forward, the starlight exploding outward in a burst of raw, destructive force.
SLASH!
The Wyrm's tough scales were no match for the concentrated power of the [Eclipse Star Trail], as the whole amount of energy was compressed right on the tip.
After all, there was a reason why Estoc was thin and long.
STAB!
The blade pierced through the creature's armor, sinking deep into its flesh.
The Wyrm let out another ear-splitting screech, its body convulsing as the energy from the starlight surged through it, disrupting its very essence.
The technique was meant to disturb the enemy's internal energy.
Lucavion could feel the raw power of the starlight coursing through the creature, but before he could press the advantage, a sudden tremor beneath his feet caught his attention.
'Something! Something is coming!'
The ground trembled violently, and Lucavion's sharpened battlefield senses screamed a warning. Something was wrong—terribly wrong. His instincts, honed by countless battles, told him that his life was in imminent danger.
Without a moment's hesitation, Lucavion yanked his estoc from the Wyrm's flesh, the blade sliding free with a wet, sickening sound.
In the same motion, he planted his foot against the creature's side and kicked off, channeling a burst of starlight through his body to propel himself backward.
BOOM!
The blast of starlight was more powerful than he had anticipated. It sent him hurtling through the air at breakneck speed, his body moving faster than he could control. The force of the explosion left him disoriented, and for a brief moment, everything was a blur of light and sound.
But his decision had been the right one.
As he tumbled through the air, Lucavion caught sight of the spot where he had just been standing.
There, jutting out of the ground like a forest of deadly spears, were a series of massive, jagged skewers made of dark, abyssal energy. They had erupted from the earth with terrifying speed, their razor-sharp tips gleaming with a malevolent light.
Had he stayed even a fraction of a second longer, those skewers would have impaled him, ending the fight in an instant.
Lucavion twisted in the air, managing to regain some control as he braced for impact. He hit the ground hard, rolling to absorb the shock before coming to a stop. His chest heaved as he caught his breath, the adrenaline coursing through his veins.
"Haha…..As expected….You will not go down without a fight….Well, that is befitting to the lord of this mountain, is it not?"
He laughed, but there was no time to rest.
The Lesser Abyssal Wyrm was far from defeated.
The creature rose from the ground, its body writhing with abyssal energy. The wounds inflicted by the [Eclipse Star Trail] still bled, but the Wyrm's regeneration had already begun, dark energy knitting its flesh back together.
Its eyes burned with a vengeful fury, and the ground beneath it seemed to pulse with the same malevolent force.
"Hey…Don't get mad….Why are you angry?"
Lucavion's gaze narrowed as he assessed the situation. The Wyrm wasn't just a mindless beast—it was cunning, capable of using its abyssal energy to manipulate the battlefield.
–GROWL!
The Wyrm let out a low, guttural growl, its form shifting as more of the abyssal energy gathered around it. The skewers that had erupted from the ground began to retract, melting back into the earth like shadows retreating from the light.
But Lucavion wasn't about to be caught off guard again. His grip tightened on the hilt of his estoc, the blade still glowing faintly with the remnants of starlight.
'If I want to keep myself from getting cornered, I need to stay on the move.'
The creature lunged again, its movements fluid and predatory. Lucavion darted to the side, his eyes locked on the Wyrm's every move.
Lucavion's mind raced as he searched for an opening.
'The wyrm is regearing, but this process will take time. The damage to the Eclipse Star Trail can not be easily recovered. The Starlight should still be messing with his insides.'
If he could find a way to exploit that delay, to strike at the heart of the abyssal energy fueling the creature, he might be able to end this once and for all.
'That is the right way….To do that, I need to create an opening.'
In his mind, slowly the outline of the battle started forming.