Chapter 7:Unveiling potential

Levi made his way to the canteen, navigating through the bustling hallways of the Nexus of Luminaris. The canteen was a lively place, filled with students from all corners of the academy. The air was rich with the scent of various foods, and the clamor of conversations and laughter created a warm, vibrant atmosphere.

He spotted Kaizo seated at a table near the center of the room, surrounded by a few other students. Kaizo's moon-like aura subtly glowed, making him easy to identify amidst the crowd. As Levi approached, Kaizo looked up, his expression brightening.

"Hey Levi, over here!" Kaizo called out, waving him over.

Levi walked to the table, and Kaizo gestured for him to sit. The students at the table glanced curiously at Levi, but Kaizo's presence seemed to offer a sense of reassurance.

"Glad you could make it," Kaizo said with a friendly smile. "How was the library?"

"It was quite enlightening," Levi replied as he took a seat. "I learned a lot about the weapons and their history, but I still have some questions."

Kaizo nodded in understanding. "That's to be expected. The academy has a lot of layers, and it takes time to get used to everything. But you're in the right place to learn."

Levi glanced around the canteen, noting the diverse mix of students. The room was a melting pot of gods, demons, and other beings, each with their own unique presence. He then turned back to Kaizo. "There are only eight mythical artifacts or maybe a hundred legendary ones. But what happens to those who don't get chosen?"

Kaizo's expression grew somber. "Some get chosen, some don't. That's the way of life. Those who aren't chosen have to rely on weapons made by blacksmiths."

Levi's curiosity about the eighth mythical artifact continued to burn. "What about the eighth mythical artifact? Why is there so little information about it?"

Kaizo's tone became more serious. "The knowledge of that artifact has been lost over time. It didn't have an owner for far too long. Only the old gods know about it."

Kaizo then said, "But now is the time when I introduce you to someone you'll probably thank for life. Finish your lunch, and we'll head to his lab."

After they completed their meals, Kaizo led Levi to a lab within the academy. Inside, Eldrin awaited them, his demeanor calm and welcoming.

"Are you ready?" Kaizo asked as they entered.

Eldrin greeted Levi with a smile. "I've been expecting you. Welcome. I'm here to help you break your mana chains."

Levi nodded eagerly. Eldrin began explaining the process in detail. "Breaking your mana chains involves a combination of rigorous training and mental discipline. The chains represent your limitations, and each one you break will allow you to tap into greater reserves of power."

Levi listened intently as Eldrin continued, "Your affinity for lightning is particularly strong, which is a great advantage. You'll need to focus on channeling that affinity through controlled exercises. We'll start with visualizations and energy manipulation techniques to enhance your connection to lightning."

The training regimen was intense. Levi practiced daily, starting with meditation sessions where he visualized lightning enveloping him. He learned to channel and control the electric currents, first through his hands and then throughout his entire body. Eldrin introduced him to various techniques, including:

1. Static Field Visualization: Imagining a static electrical field around him to strengthen his connection to lightning.

2. Energy Flow Exercises: Using mental focus to guide lightning energy from his core to his extremities.

3. Mana Surge Drills: Triggering short bursts of lightning to improve his control over the energy.

Levi's progress was slow but steady. He endured frequent setbacks and moments of frustration, but Eldrin's guidance and encouragement kept him motivated. After months of diligent practice, Levi finally achieved a breakthrough. He managed to break the first of his five mana chains.

The sensation was profound. Levi felt a surge of power and clarity. His senses sharpened, and he could perceive mana with greater precision. He felt like a different person—stronger, more aware, and in tune with the world around him.

Eldrin observed Levi's reaction and smiled. "You've done well, Levi. Breaking the first chain is a significant achievement. You're starting to tap into your true potential."

Levi looked at his hands, where small sparks of lightning danced. "This is incredible. I feel so different. What happens if I break all five chains?"

Eldrin's expression grew serious. "If you break all five chains, you'll transcend the mortals and become an immortal."

Levi's eyes widened. "Does that mean I'll be considered a god or a demon?"

Eldrin's gaze was contemplative. "That answer lives within you. It depends on the path you choose and the nature of your transformation."

Levi was curious about Eldrin's own past. "What about you, Eldrin? What was the thing that made your mana restricted?"

Eldrin's face grew solemn. "I was born with a fatal disease. But that's a story for another time. For now, go out and show off your new powers to the Ascendants. And especially to Kaizo."

Eldrin handed Levi a sword. "It's not the best sword, but it will serve you well for now."

Levi accepted the sword, feeling its weight in his hand. "Thank you, Eldrin. I won't forget this."

As Levi left the lab, he was met with stares from the other students. With the first chain broken, he felt like a whole new person. His senses were heightened, and he could perceive mana more clearly. He decided to meditate in the garden to further focus on his abilities.

While in the garden, Kaizo appeared behind him. As Kaizo was about to surprise him, Levi instinctively blocked Kaizo's hand with his new sword.

"Oh, it's you, Kaizo. How did I—" Levi started, but Kaizo interrupted with a grin.

"Congratulations, my friend. Only four chains to go," Kaizo said, his tone both encouraging and playful.

Levi asked how Kaizo had found him. Kaizo explained, "I noticed a mana signature I couldn't recognize. I guessed it must be you."

Levi noted the significant change in Kaizo's mana and remarked on it. Kaizo revealed, "I've undergone training myself. I'm the fourth in this academy, you know."

Levi laughed. "I didn't mean to underestimate you. You've just changed a lot."

Kaizo grinned. "Yes, I've been training. And I noticed you attending every class and making the best out of it. I was actually keeping an eye on you while studying myself."

Levi laughed. "That's a bit creepy."

Kaizo chuckled. "Well, now that you've made such progress, are you up for a spar, Mr. Lightning?"

Levi's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I'd love to."

Certainly! Here's the continuation with the sparring scene added:

---

As they prepared for their spar, Levi's excitement grew. Kaizo stepped back, giving Levi space to showcase his newfound abilities.

"Ready when you are," Kaizo said, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Levi took a deep breath and drew his sword, feeling its weight in his hand. He channeled the lightning mana he had been training with, focusing on directing the energy through the blade. Sparks began to flicker along the sword's edge, illuminating the surrounding area.

Kaizo's eyes widened slightly but quickly shifted into a determined stance. "Impressive. Let's see what you've got."

Levi lunged forward, swinging his sword with controlled precision. He used techniques he had learned from the training grounds and the weaponry book, combining fluid swordplay with bursts of lightning energy. Each strike crackled with electric power, making Kaizo step back and block with his own weapon.

Kaizo was swift and agile, deflecting Levi's attacks with skillful maneuvers. He matched Levi's pace, moving gracefully as he countered each swing. The clash of their swords produced vibrant flashes of light and sparks that lit up the garden.

Levi continued to press forward, his strikes growing more confident. He experimented with the lightning-infused sword techniques, attempting to merge his mana with his physical movements. One particularly powerful swing released a burst of lightning that shot toward Kaizo.

Kaizo ducked and rolled to the side, smiling as he responded with a series of quick, precise strikes aimed at Levi's unprotected openings. Levi deflected most of them with his sword, feeling the increased control and power from breaking his first mana chain.

Kaizo stepped back, visibly impressed. "You're doing well, Levi. Your control over the lightning is impressive for someone who's only recently unlocked their mana."

Levi, breathing heavily but exhilarated, nodded. "Thanks, Kaizo. I've been working hard. There's still so much to learn, but this is a great start."

Kaizo smiled and lowered his weapon. "Indeed. You've made significant progress. Keep honing your skills, and you'll continue to improve."

Levi returned the smile, his confidence bolstered by the sparring session. "I will. Thanks for pushing me."

As they wrapped up their training, Levi felt a renewed sense of determination. He knew there was a long journey ahead, but with each step, he was getting closer to his goal. The spar had not only tested his abilities but also reaffirmed his belief in his own potential.

Kaizo clapped him on the back. "Let's get some rest. We've got more work ahead of us."

Levi agreed and followed Kaizo back to the academy, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.!