Chapter 12: First Sign of Mana
One week passed as Kael continued to practice under Amara's guidance, and he slowly started to make progress. One day, during a meditation session, Amara suggested that Kael try a different approach to help him connect with his mana.
"Kael, I want you to think about a moment when you felt a strong emotional connection or a situation when you felt an intense surge of energy. It could be a moment of happiness, sadness, anger, or any other emotion. Sometimes, our mana is closely tied to our emotions, and tapping into those feelings can help us awaken our inner power."
Kael thought for a moment and recalled the day he had protected Luna from the Drakon. He remembered the desperation and the determination he had felt, and how it had unleashed his hidden power.
As he focused on that memory, Kael felt a faint warmth begin to grow in his chest. He concentrated on the sensation, nurturing it like a tiny ember, and as he did so, the warmth gradually spread throughout his body.
Amara noticed the change in Kael's expression and encouraged him to continue. "That's it, Kael! You're starting to connect with your mana. Keep focusing on that feeling and let it grow stronger."
Kael continued to concentrate on the memory and the warmth within him. The more he focused on it, the more he could feel his mana flowing through his body. It was like a river of energy, pulsing with every heartbeat.
Amara guided Kael through a series of exercises designed to help him harness and control his mana, emphasizing the importance of patience, focus, and a strong mind-body connection.
"Alright, Kael, let's start with some deep breathing," Amara instructed. "Breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your lungs completely, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. While doing this, visualize your mana as a vibrant, flowing energy within your body."
Kael followed her instructions, focusing on his breath and the image of his mana. Amara nodded approvingly, explaining that proper breathing techniques would not only help him relax and focus but also enable him to draw upon his mana more efficiently.
"Now, let's move on to some simple spells," Amara said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We'll start with a basic spell. Channel your mana into your palm, and envision creating a small, glowing orb."
Kael concentrated on his mana and the image of the glowing orb, and to his delight, a faint light began to form in his hand. He practiced this spell diligently, and with Amara's encouragement, he gradually increased the size and intensity of the light as he grew more comfortable controlling his mana.
"Excellent, Kael! You're making great progress," Amara praised, her eyes beaming with pride. "Remember, mastering magic requires patience and focus, so keep practicing and refining your skills."
As the class came to an end, Amara smiled warmly at Kael. "Well done today, Kael. Keep practicing and building on what you've learned. I believe you have the potential to become a great mage."
After the class, Kael met up with Luna and Rorik, who were waiting for him outside the training hall. They had promised to bring Kael to the bustling market located in the city of Amaranth.
"Ready for our little adventure?" Luna asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Definitely," Kael replied, eager to explore more of this magical world.
To travel from the Luminis Academy to the city of Amaranth below, they headed to the academy's transport platform. The academy, consisting of a series of interconnected floating islands, was connected to the city by a magical transportation system. As they stepped onto the platform, Luna explained that it was powered by a complex system of enchantments and runes, which allowed for safe and quick transportation between the islands and the city.
With a faint hum, the platform began to descend smoothly, giving them a breathtaking view of the city of Amaranth as they approached. The city's stunning architecture, lush parks, and bustling streets spread out before them, leaving Kael in awe of the vibrant world he had been thrust into.
Once they reached the city, the trio eagerly set off to explore the market, Kael's curiosity and excitement growing with every step.
As they wandered through the bustling market, Kael marveled at the vast array of items displayed at the numerous stalls. He saw elixirs that promised to improve magical abilities, intricately crafted armors that boasted reduced damage taken, and countless other enchanting items. However, as he reached for his coin pouch, he realized he had no idea about the currency used in Elyria.
"Hey Rorik, what kind of currency do they use here?" Kael asked, feeling a bit embarrassed by his lack of knowledge.
Rorik grinned and patted Kael on the back. "Don't worry, buddy, I've got you covered. Here in Elyria, we use the Elyrian Crown (EC) as our currency. It's a super versatile and stable currency, making it easy to trade all kinds of amazing goods!"
Luna chimed in, adding, "That's right! Our kingdom has a thriving economy, full of innovation and trade. We're always looking for new ways to grow and prosper, which is why you'll find such a dazzling variety of items in our markets, from elixirs to arrows!" rubbing her hand together looking at the varieties of arrows displayed in front of her.
"Now that you've got the basics, don't worry about not having any Elyrian Crowns," Rorik said enthusiastically, his playful demeanor returning. "I'll lend you some so you can buy whatever catches your eye! Just remember, you owe me!" Rorik winked, handing Kael a pouch consisting of 5 silver Elyrian Crowns, knowing that Kael had no money since he had just arrived in Anduron about ten days ago.
Kael's eyes sparkled with excitement and gratitude as he accepted the pouch of Elyrian Crowns from Rorik. "Thank you so much, Rorik! I promise I'll pay you back!"
Kael eagerly plunged into the bustling market, exploring the various stalls selling magical items. After some time spent haggling and negotiating with the merchants, Kael finally emerged from the crowd, beaming with pride.
"Hehe, I got myself a good deal!" Kael announced, holding up an invisible cloak. "Just for 1 silver Elyrian Crowns!"
Luna and Rorik exchanged unamused glances, and Rorik couldn't resist poking fun at Kael's purchase. "Wow, Kael, I can't even see the cloak! That's how good it is!" Rorik chuckled, and Luna shook her head, trying to suppress a smile at Rorik's lame joke.
After their little adventure at the market, the trio made their way back to the academy. As they walked through the campus, a fellow student approached Kael with a message.
"Hey, Kael! Master Alaric was looking for you. He said to meet him in the Library of Knowledge once you're back from the market."
"Thanks for letting me know," Kael replied, his curiosity piqued. He turned to Luna and Rorik, "I guess I should go see what Master Alaric wants. I'll catch up with you two later."
Luna nodded, "Sure thing, Kael. We'll see you later."
Rorik gave Kael a playful punch on the shoulder, "Go on, buddy. Don't keep the old man waiting."
Kael smiled and headed towards the Library of Knowledge, wondering what Master Alaric had in store for him.
Gifts
-- Gift
received Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone