As the morning light filtered through the window, a firm yet gentle hand shook Vergil awake.
"Come on, lad, it's morning. Time to get up," Elvira's voice carried a warmth that reminded him of better days.
Vergil groaned, blinking away the haze of sleep. His body felt heavier than usual, weighed down by the lingering memories of last night's dream. He sat up slowly, running a hand through his hair.
"You sure know how to sleep through anything," Elvira chuckled, stepping back with her arms crossed. "I was starting to think you'd spend the whole day in bed."
Vergil let out a tired sigh. "Didn't think I was that exhausted," he muttered.
"Well, you earned the rest, but don't go getting lazy on me," she smirked. "Breakfast is ready, so get moving before it gets cold."
He glanced toward the small wooden table where a modest meal awaited. A pang of gratitude settled in his chest.
"Thanks, Elvira," he said, standing up and stretching.
She waved a hand dismissively. "Just eat. No need to get all sentimental on me."
Vergil chuckled lightly before making his way to the table, pushing aside the weight of his dreams for now.
Elvira had prepared a simple but hearty breakfast—one that spoke of practicality rather than luxury. On the wooden table sat a steaming bowl of thick porridge, lightly sweetened with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed nuts. Beside it, a plate of dark, crusty bread rested with a small dish of butter, softened just enough to spread easily.
The scent of freshly brewed herbal tea lingered in the air, a rich, earthy aroma mixed with faint hints of dried fruit and spices. A single boiled egg sat on the side, its shell cracked slightly, ready to be peeled.
It was a humble meal, but in the quiet warmth of the small home, it felt far more comforting than any feast.
"It's been a while since someone cooked for me," Vergil thought as he ate, savoring the warm meal.
Elvira smirked. "You eat like someone who's been fending for himself too long."
"You're not wrong," he admitted. "Haven't had a proper home-cooked meal in a while."
"Then eat up, lad. No point rushing off hungry."
As he finished, he looked up. "Elvira, do you know where the library is?"
"Aye, near the guildhall—big stone building, hard to miss. What do you need there?"
"Just need to study a few things about mana," Vergil said, strapping on his dagger and putting the bow and quiver on his back.
Elvira chuckled. "Books are good, but experience teaches best. Don't get lost in them."
Vergil nodded. "Thanks, Elvira. For everything."
"Go on, then. And remember, my door's always open."
With that, he stepped outside, heading toward the library with determination.
Vergil made his way through the quiet streets of Vaeloria, heading toward the library. The building was an old but well-kept structure, its walls lined with ivy, giving it a sense of timeless wisdom. The entrance was framed by two stone pillars, and as he pushed open the heavy wooden doors, the scent of aged parchment and ink filled the air.
Inside, rows upon rows of towering bookshelves stretched toward the ceiling, each filled with knowledge accumulated over generations. The dim lighting gave the place a solemn atmosphere, and a few scholars sat at wooden desks, absorbed in their studies.
At the front desk sat a young man with neatly combed black hair, wearing simple yet tidy robes. His sharp, observant eyes flicked up as Vergil approached.
"Excuse me, do you know where the books related to mana are?" Vergil asked.
The young man gave a polite nod and gestured toward the east wing of the library. "You'll find them in the third row from the entrance. There's a section dedicated to mana theory, another for practical techniques, and a few historical accounts on how it's used in various fields."
"Thanks," Vergil replied before heading in that direction.
Finding the Right Book
The mana section was vast, with books covering everything from the history of magical energy to its applications in daily life. However, Vergil wasn't interested in the theoretical aspects—he needed a practical technique.
His fingers trailed along the spines of the books before stopping on one titled "Mana Assimilation: The Foundation of Energy Absorption." It seemed to be exactly what he was looking for. Pulling it from the shelf, he sat down at a nearby desk and began reading.
The book detailed a fundamental breathing technique designed to absorb and refine mana, particularly from an Astralyth Crystal, a common energy source for beginners.
1. The Importance of Breathing Techniques
Since raw mana is unstable, it must be refined before being integrated into the body. A proper breathing technique allows the user to gradually absorb energy without causing harm or energy rejection.
2. The Process of Mana Absorption
Preparation:
The user must enter a calm, meditative state, preferably sitting in a comfortable position.
The Astralyth Crystal is placed in hand or nearby, allowing its energy to flow naturally.
Breathing Method:
1. Inhale Deeply – Slowly draw in air while simultaneously pulling mana from the surroundings and the Astralyth Crystal.
2. Guide the Mana – Hold the breath momentarily, directing the absorbed mana toward the body's core. If a Mana Heart is present, it serves as a focal point for this energy. If not, the book suggests referring to another section (page 34) to learn how to create one.
3. Exhale Steadily – Releasing the breath helps expel impurities and excess energy to prevent internal instability.
Breaking Down the Astralyth Energy:
The user must gradually draw in small amounts of energy to prevent backlash.
The user must turn refine the energy in order for it to be absorbed by the mana heart or mana circle
Rushing the process leads to instability and potential damage to the body's energy network.
Circulation & Storage:
Once absorbed, the energy is directed to the mana heart or circle, strengthening it
The refined mana is stored within the aura core or mana heart, increasing total reserves.
Some practitioners guide mana through their limbs to reinforce physical strength and reaction speed.
Long-Term Benefits:
Consistent practice increases efficiency, allowing for faster absorption and greater energy control.
Advanced users can eventually absorb unstable energy sources beyond just Astralyth Crystals.
Vergil absorbed the knowledge quickly, his mind processing the steps. The technique was simple yet foundational. If mastered, it could vastly improve his mana reserves and control.
Creating a Mana Heart (Page 34 Summary)
While flipping through the book, Vergil came across the referenced section on the Mana Heart, an advanced energy organ that acted as a secondary core for storing and refining mana.
1. Requirements for Forming a Mana Heart
1) Must have instead affinity to mana
2) User must have alot of Astralyth stones of Frank, not higher as the person may find it difficult to absorb in order for the process to be complete.
2. Process of Forming a Mana Heart
Step 1: Mana Compression
The user gathers mana from the surroundings and compresses it within their body.
Deep meditation and precise control prevent the energy from dispersing.
Step 2: Energy Refinement
The raw mana is purified using controlled breathing techniques.
Any impurities are expelled, ensuring stability before compression.
Step 3: Core Formation
The compressed mana is gradually shaped into a small, dense energy sphere near the heart.
Over time, it solidifies into a fully functional Mana Heart.
This process takes weeks to months, depending on the user's talent and control.
Step 4: Mana Circulation Integration
Once formed, the Mana Heart connects to the body's pathways, enhancing natural mana flow.
The user must carefully regulate their mana, as overloading can cause damage.
3. Benefits of a Mana Heart
Doubles total mana reserves
Drastically improves mana regeneration
Enhances spellcasting efficiency and control
Allows access to higher-tier magic
4. Risks & Challenges
Rushing the process can cause Mana Deviation, leading to energy backlash.
Impure mana can result in Mana Corruption, damaging the body.
The process is mentally and physically exhausting, requiring great focus and endurance.
5. Advanced Stages of the Mana Heart (For Higher Tiers)
Crystallized Mana Heart: A refined, crystal-like core that grants perfect mana flow.
Dual Mana Hearts: A rare phenomenon where a user develops two cores, enabling parallel energy control.
Elemental Mana Heart: Users may infuse an element into their Mana Heart, vastly increasing their affinity and control over that element.
Vergil closed the book after an hour of reading, his mind processing the vast amount of information.
"So, I need to master this breathing technique first. Without it, I won't be able to absorb mana efficiently. Then, once my reserves are strong enough, I can start forming a Mana Heart."
He clenched his fist, feeling an unfamiliar sense of determination.
"I need more power. If I'm going to survive in this world, I need to push myself beyond my limits."
With a deep breath, Vergil put the book back on the shelf and made his way out of the library. His journey to power had just begun.
"User, I can recommend a way for you to absorb more effectively."
Vergil's eyes narrowed. "There's a way? Wait… why are you telling me this now? You didn't mention it last time."
"User, I cannot provide direct information that would assist you," the system replied, its voice as neutral as ever. "However, I can offer recommendations."
A brief pause.
"But if you don't want it, then—"
"No, no, I want it!" Vergil interrupted, urgency creeping into his voice.
"Understood. User, gather approximately 20 F-rank Astralyth Crystals. Once you have them, I will explain the process."
Vergil exhaled sharply, his mind already racing. "Then it's time I get another request."
Vergil headed to the guild next door to the library and spotted Elena working diligently behind the counter. As he observed her more closely, he took in the details of her appearance.
Elena was a striking woman in her mid-to-late twenties with a warm yet confident presence. Her long, wavy auburn hair cascaded past her shoulders, with a few loose strands framing her sharp yet delicate features. Her amber eyes carried a playful glint, always seeming to assess and tease at the same time.
Her body was curvaceous yet toned, suggesting an active lifestyle despite her desk job. She wore the standard guild receptionist uniform—a fitted dark red blouse with gold embroidery, complementing a black skirt that ended just above her knees. A small silver pendant rested against her collarbone, and her sleeves were rolled up slightly, revealing smooth forearms.
Despite her professional attire, she carried herself with a relaxed confidence, leaning on the counter with an easy smile. Her demeanor was welcoming, yet there was an undeniable allure about her.
Vergil, however, shook off any unnecessary thoughts. "She's attractive, but right now, intimate relationships will only be a distraction. I have bigger priorities."
Stepping forward, he greeted her.
"Hey, Elena. Do you have any requests that I can take on?"
Elena looked up and smiled. "Vergil, let me check for you."
She shuffled through a stack of documents, scanning for suitable requests. After a moment, she pulled out two.
"There are two available—one near the outskirts and another in an abandoned village about an hour from here. Personally, I'd recommend the village."
Vergil raised an eyebrow. "Why's that?"
Elena tapped the paper. "The outskirts mainly have slimes, and while they're not particularly dangerous, they're a hassle to kill, and you won't earn much from them. The village, on the other hand, has been overrun by cave rats, which is unusual."
"Cave rats?" Vergil repeated. "What's so strange about that?"
"They typically live in dark, underground areas, avoiding the surface. For them to suddenly swarm a village in broad daylight—it doesn't add up."
Vergil crossed his arms, weighing his options. "Low risk, low reward with the slimes… or high risk, high reward with the rats. Something about this infestation feels off, but if I shy away from danger, I'll never reach the top. I didn't come here to play it safe."
His decision was clear.
"I'll take the village request."
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The night was heavy with the scent of blood.
Vergil sat in the corner of a decayed, abandoned house, his back against the cold, crumbling wall. The floor beneath him was slick with his own blood, seeping from a deep gash in his abdomen. His breath was ragged, uneven, every rise and fall of his chest sending sharp jolts of pain through his body.
The moonlight streamed through the broken roof in fractured beams, illuminating the wreckage around him—shattered wood, old dust, and the fresh remains of whatever had dared to challenge him. His dagger lay loosely in his grip, its edge darkened with crimson.
Yet, despite the pain, despite the blood loss, a grin tugged at his lips. His brown eyes, alight with something dangerous, flickered in the dim glow.
"This is getting fun," he muttered, voice low and hoarse, but undeniably thrilled.
Outside, the wind howled through the empty village, carrying the scent of death into the night.