Chapter 41
"On a separate note, expect a high pay out on this expedition" Amelia said.
She quickly debriefed the group before allowing everyone to leave.
Ray returned home and collapsed in his bed. Fatigued.
The next day, Ray texted Jessica and got her to drop him off at Barnes' training facility.
Ray stepped out of the car, his mind still lingering on the intense battles and the anomalies they had encountered in the dungeon. The training facility loomed before him, a sanctuary where he could further hone his skills and seek guidance from Barnes. Jessica, who had accompanied him, gave him a reassuring smile.
"Good luck, Ray," she said, her voice filled with confidence. "I'll be waiting for you here when you're done."
Ray nodded, grateful for her support. With a determined stride, he entered the training facility, greeted by the familiar scent of incense and the sound of soft instrumental music playing in the background. Barnes, his mentor and guide, stood in the centre of the training area, his eyes bright with anticipation.
"Ray, welcome back," Barnes greeted, his voice carrying a warmth that eased Ray's restless mind. "I can see from your expression that you've been through quite an adventure. Sit, and let's talk."
Ray took a seat on a nearby cushion, grateful for the opportunity to share his experiences. He recounted the battles they had faced, the escalating ranks of the monsters, and the anomalies that had perplexed the Silver Fangs. As he spoke, he could sense Barnes' deep understanding and unwavering focus.
"Interesting," Barnes mused, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "It seems like the dungeon you encountered was no ordinary one. The mutations in the monster ranks, the oppressive mana, and the presence of those cloaked figures... It all points to a complex situation."
Ray nodded, his eyes reflecting the weight of their encounters. "Indeed. It felt like we were unravelling a mystery with each step we took. And the vampires... their mana was so suffocating, I could barely move effectively."
Barnes leaned forward, his eyes intense. "That's because vampires, possess a mastery over mana manipulation that surpasses most creatures. Their presence alone can disrupt and suppress the mana of those around them, making it incredibly challenging to channel your own mana effectively."
Ray absorbed Barnes' words, the pieces of the puzzle slowly falling into place. "So, that's why I struggled so much. My attempts to tap into my mana felt stifled, as if the vampires were actively resisting me."
Barnes nodded, a knowing smile gracing his lips. "Precisely, Ray. But here's the thing: Every challenge you face presents an opportunity for growth. The vampires tested your connection with mana, pushed you to find new ways to overcome their oppressive influence. Tell me, during those battles, did you experience any breakthroughs, however small they may have been?"
Ray's brow furrowed as he delved into his memories, searching for the moments of clarity amidst the chaos. "Yes, actually. In the final confrontation with the vampire, as I struggled to pierce through its oppressive mana, I realized that I had to go beyond my instinctual responses. I calmed down and focused on refining my mana manipulation, and I was able to refine my mana in almost superspeed, it even ruined my veins."
Barnes' eyes gleamed with pride. "That's remarkable, Ray. In the face of adversity, you recognized the need for deliberate mana manipulation. This awareness and determination will serve you well in your journey. Remember, growth is not always linear. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your true potential. Mana doesn't flow through veins, but meridians"
"Meridians?" Ray asked.
Barnes smiled, "The difference between us hunters and regular people is meridians. After mana landed on this planet, some people mutated to be able to hold and use mana within our bodies and that's what a hunter is. You will be in for a surprise when your meridians heal."
"Also, my mana core has turned to a lighter shade of brown." Ray detailed.
"Really? Good, keep pushing for a white core. Do what you've been doing and report back like normal." Barnes smiled.
The duo continued to speak for a while before ending the conversation.
With renewed purpose, Ray rose from the cushion. He thanked Barnes once more before leaving the training facility.
As Ray returned to Jessica, the weight of their recent encounter still fresh in their minds, Jessica turned to Ray with a thoughtful expression.
"Ray, did you notice anything peculiar about those cloaked figures we encountered in the dungeon?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.
Ray furrowed his brow, his mind replaying the chaotic scene. "Yes, there was something strangely familiar about one of them. It felt like I had seen that figure before, but I couldn't quite place it. Why do you ask?"
Jessica's gaze became focused, her voice lowering as she spoke. "Those cloaked figures, the rune on their backs, it resembled a sigil used by a secretive organisation known as the Order of Shadows."