It's been a few days since the attack by those shadow creatures, but I can't shake the lingering sense of unease. Every creak of the trees, every flicker of darkness feels like a reminder that I'm far from safe.
To distract myself, I've thrown myself into training with Manipulation of Everything, pushing my limits to refine my ability to absorb and store energy. My progress has been small but meaningful—a noticeable step forward. With time and effort, I've also managed to tap into my Reset Ability, which allows me to rewind my body to its state from five seconds prior. It might not seem like much, but it's progress. However, I've learned the hard way that using this ability on myself requires an intense level of focus—far more than I can muster during battle. If I get injured mid-fight, there's no way I'll be able to rely on it. The road to mastering it is long.
Then there's my Spirit Purification power, which has proven invaluable. It removes non-physical negativity from my body, including fatigue. It's been a game-changer during my training sessions, letting me push further without being bogged down by exhaustion.
Right now, I'm working on improving my swordsmanship with the weapon that Homizd gave me. I'll admit, I expected something extraordinary—something legendary—but what I got was a plain, ordinary sword.
Analysis: Standard Sword
Class: Basic Weapon
Type: One-Handed Melee Weapon
Craftsmanship: Standard, Non-Enchanted
Attributes
- Durability: 5/10
- Crafted from common materials, it can handle light to moderate combat. However, repeated use or heavy battles will wear it down quickly.
- Sharpness: 6/10
- Effective for simple slashing and thrusting, but struggles against tougher, reinforced materials.
- Weight: 5/10
- Balanced enough for average users, but lacks the refinement needed for advanced techniques.
- Adaptability: 7/10
- Versatile for general use, making it a reliable choice for beginners.
Abilities and Traits
1. Basic Cutting Edge:
- A functional blade suitable for standard combat, lacking any special enhancements or unique properties.
2. Neutral Magic Compatibility:
- Can channel basic elemental energy, making it a decent choice for novice magic users.
3. Repairable:
- Its simple design allows for easy repairs by any skilled blacksmith.
Strengths
- Versatility:
- Practical for both offense and defense, adaptable to various combat styles.
- Accessibility:
- Simple and widely available, ideal for those just starting out.
- Energy Compatibility:
- Functions well with energy infusion techniques like wind or fire manipulation.
Weaknesses
1. Fragile:
- Prolonged exposure to heavy impacts or magical strikes can lead to damage or breakage.
2. No Special Features:
- The sword lacks enchantments or advanced properties, making it underwhelming in high-level battles.
3. Limited Against Strong Opponents:
- Struggles to stand up against enchanted gear or superior weaponry.
At first, I was disappointed. It's not that the sword is bad—it's functional and reliable—but I can't help imagining how much cooler it would have been to receive something unique, something extraordinary.
Despite my initial reaction, my progress in swordsmanship has been slow. Experience plays such a big role in mastering this art, and no amount of training can replace actual combat practice. Even Absolute Insight admitted that gathering data from real battles would help it craft a refined swordsmanship technique tailored to me.
On the brighter side, my light-based attacks are ready. I've developed four distinct techniques:
1. Laser Shot: A focused beam of light that pierces targets with precision.
2. Photon Blade: A sword of concentrated light, searing through enemies with unmatched sharpness.
3. Rain of Light: A barrage of radiant beams falling from above, overwhelming opponents in a cascade of light.
4. Light Shield: A protective barrier of solidified energy, capable of deflecting both physical and magical attacks.
These techniques were created using Manipulation of Everything and are incredibly energy-intensive. Luckily, energy depletion has never been an issue for me—what I've struggled with is control. Thanks to Absolute Insight, I've managed to bypass this problem entirely. The techniques have been integrated into a single skill set, allowing me to activate them with mere thought, skipping the steps of energy control and conversion.
It's time to confront those shadow creatures again. I need to test how far I've come, but this time, I'm bringing Homizd with me. If things go south, he'll have my back.
When I told him about my plan, he grinned and said, "Alright. Let's take down those shadows. The first victory of Darius is going to be legendary!"
His confidence caught me off guard, and I couldn't help feeling a little embarrassed. Out of nowhere, he retrieved a bottle from his cabin and handed it to me. "Here," he said. "This potion will help boost your energy. It's just a low-grade one, but it should do the trick. Good luck—show them what you're made of."
Analysis: Low-Grade Energy Restoration Potion
Class: Consumable Item
Type: Energy Recovery
Grade: Low
Attributes
- Restorative Power: 3/10
- Provides a small boost to energy levels, sufficient for light tasks or emergencies.
- Consumption Speed: Fast
- Takes effect within seconds of consumption.
- Taste: Mildly Bitter
- Not unpleasant, but far from enjoyable.
Ingredients
1. Moonberry Extract: A concentrated essence known for restoring depleted energy.
2. Glowgrass Essence: A faintly luminescent herb that enhances energy flow.
3. Diluted Mana Water: Acts as the potion's base, ensuring smooth absorption.
4. Aether Salt: Stabilizes the mixture and slightly boosts its efficacy.
Abilities and Traits
1. Quick Energy Boost: Restores energy reserves within 30 seconds.
2. Temporary Clarity: Slightly enhances focus and concentration for five minutes.
3. No Long-Term Effects: Energy is replenished without side effects or lingering benefits.
Strengths
- Simple to Craft: Requires accessible ingredients and basic brewing techniques.
- Fast Acting: Ideal for situations requiring immediate energy recovery.
- Widely Available: A staple in shops, often found in beginner kits.
Weaknesses
1. Limited Recovery: Ineffective for severe exhaustion or high-energy demands.
2. Short-Lasting: Restored energy fades quickly without additional support.
3. Low Efficiency for Advanced Users: Barely impactful for those with high energy reserves.
His gift made me pause. Was this going to be a long battle? I hoped not, but the thought lingered as I pocketed the potion and prepared for the fight ahead.