Chapter 21: The Power of Flames
Marcus was sitting in his dimly lit room, reviewing his updated panel. His eyes scanned the numbers and abilities with a mix of satisfaction and determination. The manual "Chasing the Sun" had proven to be much more than a growth tool; it had been a revelation. Unlike his previous manuals, this one contained a wealth of techniques and spells specifically designed for hunters. The potential it offered seemed limitless, and Marcus knew he was only beginning to scratch the surface.
Updated Panel:
Name: Marcus Winchester Race: Human Strength: 39 Agility: 39 Constitution: 45 Hunter Energy: 15 Level: 2 Skill Points: 0
Skills:
Gunslinger Level 2 Divine Fist Level 2
Manuals:
Divine Fist Manual (Complete) Basic Body Refinement (Complete) Chasing the Sun (Entry Level)
The manual had granted him fundamental spells designed to give hunters a significant edge in combat. Among them were Spiritual Vision, a technique that allowed the user to perceive their surroundings with superior clarity, even detecting hidden enemies or traps. Sun Shield was a defensive spell capable of creating a rotating light barrier that protected Marcus from attacks. Additionally, the manual taught how to Imbue Weapons with Flames, which granted fire power to weapons, provided they were resistant enough. Finally, there was the classic Fireball, a destructive and direct offensive skill.
Each ability contained immense potential, but Marcus knew mastery wouldn't come easily. The manual hinted at advanced techniques and more powerful spells that would unlock as the practitioner improved. Intrigued and eager, Marcus decided to head to the nearby forest to begin practicing the skills, determined to make the most of what the manual had offered him.
The first spell he decided to learn was Fireball. Though basic at its initial level, Marcus knew it could be useful if he could adapt it to his needs. At first, Fireball was just a standard projectile, a spell commonly used by hunters to eliminate enemies from a distance. However, Marcus quickly began experimenting with different ways to modify it. He didn't want to rely on such a predictable, unimaginative spell. His mind was filled with ideas, and he dedicated himself to finding a way to change its form.
After several attempts and failures, he managed to alter the structure of the spell. Instead of the typical spherical fireball, Marcus created a compact flame that moved quickly, like a small ball but much more concentrated and precise. This allowed him not only to increase the spell's power but also to modify its trajectory and size, making it more flexible and useful in combat.
Two days of trial and error passed. During that time, Marcus also practiced Sun Shield. After intense concentration, he managed to keep the shield active for five minutes, which gave him a sense of unshakable protection. Imbuing the palm bullets with flames also proved to be a challenge, but after several attempts, he succeeded. The regular bullets melted quickly upon contact with fire, but with the skill he had developed, Marcus created fire-infused bullets that were not only resistant but also powerful enough to pierce enemies with ease.
The most notable change came when, after some adjustments, he managed to turn the Fireball into a more manageable form—a small flame orb that shot out with the same power as the original fireball but with greater precision. Opening his panel, he noticed that the abilities to Imbue the bullets with fire and Sun Shield had improved considerably. They were no longer basic skills; they had become much more versatile, making them far more effective in combat.
With the new skills under his belt, Marcus felt his power growing exponentially. He decided to head to the tavern in search of a new mission. He knew he needed more skill points and money to continue improving. Despite his success, the challenges wouldn't disappear so easily. He needed to face stronger enemies, gain more experience, and perfect his skills to advance along the path he had chosen.
Upon arriving at the tavern, he ordered a beer and sat in a corner, observing the other hunters passing by. As he drank slowly, he reflected on the possibilities ahead. He knew that with the power he had gained so far, he could face many challenges, but there was still much to learn. The more difficult missions required more than just physical skill; they required wit, knowledge, and, most of all, the ability to adapt to any situation.