Training and Magic (part 3)

During my training with Hormizd, I learned many things. One particularly burning question I had was, "When the sigils absorb energy, where do they store it?" Hormizd explained that you can either use the energy continuously without storing it—though this depends on where the sigil is inscribed, as well as your physical and mental strength—or choose to store it to exceed the "standard" level of magical power. What constitutes "standard" varies from person to person.

As I progressed, I began to realize how little I actually knew. Questions kept piling up. After using the "Manipulation of Everything" power, I discovered how weak it was and how much more focus it required. This realization persisted until I tested all my powers for the first time. Unfortunately, I had to admit that they were weaker than I had anticipated. Was it disappointing? Yes. But it fueled my determination to improve.

Eventually, I reached the Absolute Insight power. As I concentrated on it, my bodily control faded, and I closed my eyes. When I opened them again, I found myself in a galaxy-like space—dark, yet filled with brilliant stars. Suddenly, a figure appeared in front of me. Upon closer inspection, I recognized the face all too well. Yes, it was none other than Cyrus—the one who had given me the pill that brought me to this world. He approached with his usual smile and greeted me:

"Hello, Darius. I see you're becoming familiar with this world. So, is there anything you want to ask me? Perhaps why you're here or why this is happening to you?"

Without hesitation, I replied firmly, "No, such thoughts have never crossed my mind."

Cyrus seemed delighted by my answer. "Good," he said. "Because I really didn't want to answer those questions."

"So that's how it is," I replied. "Fine, let's get to the point. Either send me back or explain why I'm here."

He chuckled. "You seem impatient. Very well. If you're so eager to cut the chit-chat, I'll get straight to the point. First, you weren't sent anywhere; instead, you are in a realm tied to a unique form of magic—what you call Absolute Insight. To use it, you won't need to come here every time. Second, I gave you this power as a sort of cheat. Honestly, I'm a soft-hearted guy, and I couldn't bear to send you into another world empty-handed. Third, Absolute Insight is an extraordinary and powerful ability. Like any other power you possess, it requires practice and effort to reach its full potential. So, focus more on honing it; the results will be worthwhile. Fourth, don't pour all your time into magic. Don't neglect other domains. This isn't a game where you must choose a single path. Neither you nor anyone else is bound to follow just one route. Finally, remember that this world contains many dimensions, each with its own races. The place you're currently in is the safest; however, this security won't last forever. You need to grow stronger to withstand whatever may come."

"That's all I had to say," he added. "Any questions?"

"No," I replied. "But if you have anything more to say, I'll listen."

Cyrus grinned. "Clever, aren't you? You'll need that wit—things will only get tougher. Honestly, I've said all I needed to say. Just remember: Absolute Insight demands relentless practice. And... well, that's it. Goodbye, Darius."

"Goodbye, Cyrus," I responded.

When I left the Absolute Insight dimension, I found myself near the cabin once more. I tried analyzing various objects, but nothing worked—until I attempted it on a single wheat grain, and to my surprise, it succeeded.

- Physical Characteristics: 

 - Shape: Small and oval, with color ranging from yellow to light brown. 

 - Size: Typically 4–8 mm in length and 2–3 mm in width. 

 - Outer Layer: Protected by a hard shell known as bran .

- Nutritional Composition: 

 - Carbohydrates: Constitute 60-70% of its composition, serving as a primary energy source. 

 - Protein: Contains 10-15%, including gluten, which provides elasticity to bread. 

 - Fiber: Found in the bran, it aids digestion and supports gut health. 

 - Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins, such as niacin and thiamine. 

 - Minerals: Includes iron, magnesium, and zinc.

- Internal Structure: 

Bran: The fibrous outer layer. Endosperm: The starchy core that is rich in protein. Germ: The smallest part, packed with nutrients and oils.

- Applications: 

 - Used in the production of bread, pasta, and biscuits. 

 - Bran is utilized for animal feed or high-fiber foods.

After analyzing the grain, the system suggested learning how to cultivate this plant. I was astonished; I had never encountered such detailed information about a single grain. It seemed that Cyrus was right—the power of Absolute Insight could indeed be a game-changer.

Without delay, I began using this ability on various objects. Three months passed, and I noticed significant improvements in my powers, such as:

- Power One: Manipulation of Everything 

 - I could make small-scale changes, such as altering the color of objects or moving small items. 

 - I could also perform minor environmental manipulations, like increasing the temperature in a small area or redirecting water flow. 

- Power Two: Magisynthesis  

 - I learned to combine simple spells to create slightly stronger magic. 

 - This was limited to the materials and resources available to me. 

- Power Three: Spirit Cleansing 

 - I could reduce negative emotions to a limited extent. 

- Power Four: Absolute Insight  

 - I gained the ability to broadly analyze nearby events or small objects, limited to those within my direct line of sight. 

- Power Five: Reset 

 - I was able to restore small objects to their original state, such as repairing a broken vase. 

During this time, I also learned a few simple spells from Hormizd, including water orbs and cooling breezes. By combining these with my second power, I managed to create small ice orbs—though mastering this took an entire week. I realized that with a stronger Absolute Insight, I could have achieved this in mere minutes. The road ahead was still long, but Cyrus's warning stayed fresh in my mind: I needed to grow stronger without stopping.

While reflecting on this, Hormizd called me for a meal. I initially declined, but he came and forcibly insisted that I join him.