Chapter 4: Embracing New Powers

The morning sun rose over the newly established base, casting long shadows across the vibrant plains. Oly and Anya stood side by side, absorbing the tranquility of their surroundings. The events of the previous day still lingered in their minds, but today brought a new sense of purpose.

"We need to understand our new bodies and abilities," Oly said, his voice resolute. "This world is filled with unknown dangers, and we must be ready to face them."

Anya nodded. "Let's start by exploring our talents and how we can use them to our advantage."

As they spoke, a new notification appeared on their System interface.

System Notification: Unlocking Power Systems

• Objective: Understand and begin your journey on the Martial Path or Mage Path.

• Reward: Basic Skill Books and Enhanced Attribute Points.

Oly tapped on the notification, and a detailed description unfolded before their eyes.

Martial Path:

• Rank 1: Martial Artist - Condense mana in the heart, enhancing physical attributes and basic combat abilities.

• Rank 2: Martial Master - Develop a passive mana barrier for protection, increasing resilience.

• Rank 3: Martial Grandmaster - Form liquid mana veins, significantly boosting internal energy flow and combat efficiency.

• Rank 4: Cultivator - Solidify the mana heart, enabling limited manipulation of the environment.

• Rank 5: Martial Dominator - Establish a neutral element mana domain, providing heightened perception and control over surroundings.

• Rank 6: Martial Lord - Perceive and manipulate the fundamental laws of the realm, achieving near-absolute control in combat.

Mage Path:

• Rank 1: Mage - Operate mana to cast basic spells, gaining control over elemental forces.

• Rank 2: Great Mage - Form an inherited spell within the mana core, unlocking more advanced magic.

• Rank 3: Grand Mage - Transform mana from gaseous to liquid, greatly increasing spell potency and efficiency.

• Rank 4: Arch Mage - Solidify the mana core, allowing significant influence over the environment.

• Rank 5: Domain Magus - Create an elemental domain, exerting control over external mana and the battlefield.

• Rank 6: Mystic Lord - Perceive and manipulate the underlying laws that govern the realm, mastering profound magical abilities.

"Looks like we have a lot to learn," Oly said, his eyes scanning the information.

Oly decided to delve into the martial path, a decision influenced by his talent, "Overlord's Might." He knew that understanding and harnessing his newfound physical power would be crucial.

He began with a series of exercises, feeling the increased strength and agility in his movements. His muscles responded with a fluidity and power he had never experienced before. Each motion felt precise, controlled, and powerful.

He focused on the description provided by the System, visualizing the process of condensing mana in his heart. As he meditated, he felt a warm, tingling sensation in his chest, and a faint, glowing core of energy began to form. This was the first step in becoming a Martial Artist.

Oly found a sturdy branch that resembled a sword and began practicing basic swordsmanship techniques. Each swing and thrust was guided by the movements described in the Basic Skill Book provided by the System.

His talent, Overlord's Might, enhanced his strength and agility, making each move faster and more precise. He felt the flow of Qi within him, aligning with his movements and empowering his strikes. He practiced tirelessly, his body and mind becoming one with the weapon. The repetitive movements became a form of meditation, sharpening his focus and increasing his understanding of the martial path.

Anya, on the other hand, was drawn to the path of the mage. Her talent, "Healer's Touch," hinted at a deep connection with mana and its applications in healing and support.

She sat down in a quiet spot and began to meditate, following the instructions provided by the System. She focused on her breathing, calming her mind and reaching out to the mana around her.

Anya visualized the mana within her as a glowing, fluid energy, flowing through her body and concentrating in her hands. She placed her hands over a small cut on her arm and directed the mana towards it.

As she concentrated, the mana began to glow softly, and she felt a warmth spread from her hands into the wound. Slowly, the cut closed, leaving behind smooth, unblemished skin.

Anya practiced this healing technique repeatedly, using small cuts and bruises to hone her skills. Each time, the process became more natural, and the healing faster. She felt a deep sense of fulfillment as she realized the potential of her abilities to help others.

Both Oly and Anya received notifications from the System, acknowledging their progress:

New Skill Acquired: Swordsmanship (Ordinary, Level 1)

• Description: Basic techniques in wielding a sword, improving with practice and experience.

• Experience: 10/100

New Skill Acquired: Healing (Ordinary, Level 1)

• Description: Basic healing techniques using mana, improving with practice and experience.

• Experience: 15/100

They also received the rewards promised by the System:

Rewards:

• Basic Skill Books - Detailed guides on various skills and abilities, aiding in their development.

• Enhanced Attribute Points - Additional points to distribute across their attributes, enhancing their overall abilities.

Oly felt a surge of energy as he distributed his points. He received 5 attribute points and decided to distribute them as follows:

• Strength: +2 points (from 15 to 17)

• Agility: +2 points (from 15 to 17)

• Intelligence: +1 point (from 22.5 to 23.5)

Anya received 5 attribute points as well and focused on boosting her Intelligence and Wisdom:

• Intelligence: +3 points (from 12 to 15)

• Wisdom: +2 points (from 10 to 12)

The enhanced attributes immediately made a difference. Oly felt his muscles become even more powerful and his reflexes quicker. Anya noticed her mind becoming sharper, her understanding of mana deepening.

As the day drew to a close, Oly and Anya regrouped and shared their experiences. They were both exhausted but exhilarated by their progress.

"I can feel the potential," Oly said, his eyes shining with determination. "If we continue to train and develop our skills, we can become powerful enough to protect ourselves and our territory."

Anya nodded, her smile filled with hope. "And we can help others too. My healing abilities are just the beginning. There's so much more we can learn."

Together, they sat by the fire, the warmth and light providing comfort in the vast, unknown world. The Dominion of Ascendancy was filled with challenges and dangers, but it was also a place of incredible opportunities.

With each passing day, they grew stronger and more confident in their abilities. The future was uncertain, but Oly and Anya faced it with resolve and a shared purpose. They were determined to master their new powers and carve out a place for themselves in this new world.