Chapter 30

As Ray immersed himself in this visualization, he began to sense a subtle shift in the atmosphere. It was as if the air itself became charged with an unseen presence, an invisible tapestry woven with threads of mana. He extended his perception, reaching out with his senses to feel the fluctuations of this ethereal energy.

With each breath, Ray's visualization grew stronger and more vivid. He could almost feel the warmth and vibrancy of the mana as it enveloped him. It was a living force, pulsating with power and potential. He embraced the sensation, surrendering to the flow of mana that surrounded him.

As Ray delved deeper into the exercise, he noticed that his ability to sense mana's presence became more refined. He could discern its fluctuations, its ebb and flow, as if he were attuning himself to the heartbeat of the world. It was a mesmerizing experience, one that filled him with awe and reverence for the interconnectedness of all things. Ray began to feel a ball of mana spin within himself, dispersing throughout his body whilst some dissipated into the atmosphere.

Barnes observed Ray's progress with a proud smile. Noticing the slight solidification of the mana around his body and recognizing the growth and development within the young hunter. He knew that Ray was tapping into a wellspring of potential, and with continued practice, his connection to mana would only strengthen.

But Ray's mind began to wander, if he could feel mana in the surroundings, and feel it in his body…what if he drew mana within him?

As Ray delved deeper into his meditation, his mind began to wander, exploring the possibilities that lay beyond what he had been taught. He pondered the idea of drawing mana from his surroundings and channeling it within himself, wondering if it would amplify his own power.

Curiosity piqued, Ray slowly opened his eyes, breaking his meditative state. He glanced around the training area, observing the vibrant hues of mana that danced in the air. The energy was palpable, a constant presence that seemed to beckon him.

Barnes, noticing Ray's distraction, approached him with a quizzical expression. "Is something on your mind, Ray?"

Ray hesitated for a moment, uncertain of how his mentor would react to his newfound idea. But he trusted Barnes and decided to share his thoughts.

"Barnes, while I was meditating, I couldn't help but wonder... What if I could draw mana from my surroundings and infuse it within myself?" Ray's voice held a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

Barnes regarded him thoughtfully, considering his words. "Drawing mana from the environment is possible, but it requires great skill and control. It's a technique often reserved for more advanced hunters."

Ray nodded, understanding the complexity of what he was suggesting. "I know it's ambitious, but I can't help but feel a connection to the mana around me. I believe that if I can harness that energy, it will enhance my abilities as a hunter."

Barnes studied Ray's determined expression, recognizing the burning desire within him. He knew that suppressing such curiosity could hinder Ray's growth.

"Ray, what you're suggesting is not an easy feat. Drawing mana into oneself requires immense focus, control, and a deep understanding of the energy flow. It's a path fraught with risks if not approached with caution," Barnes cautioned, his voice filled with a mix of concern and encouragement.

Ray's resolve remained unshaken. "I understand the risks, Barnes, but I'm willing to take them. I want to push myself beyond my limits and explore the true potential of my connection with mana."

"What did you see whilst you meditated?" Barnes asked

"I saw waves of mana outside of me and a ball of mana within me" Ray responded.

"Did the mana within you look clear?"

"No."

"I understand your desire for more strength, but first you must build a strong foundation. Begin by making the mana within you at least white. Work on that and I'll teach you how to draw in mana." Barnes sighed before his first turned serious. "But you have to promise me you won't attempt to draw in mana before your core is white."

Seeing the seriousness on Barnes' face, Ray nodded solemnly.

"Good. If you want to get a white mana core, you need to clean the unconcentrated mana out of your body." Barnes explains.

Ray listened carefully as Barnes explained how to refine mana through your body. He practiced a bit under Barnes' watchful eye, ensuring he maintained control and balance throughout the process. They started with simple exercises, gradually increasing the complexity as Ray grew more adept at mana manipulation.

Ray focused on drawing mana into his core, visualizing it as a vibrant stream of energy flowing through his body. He felt the subtle shifts and fluctuations of the mana, adjusting his concentration and intention to maintain a steady flow.

At first, the process was challenging. Ray experienced moments of imbalance, where the influx of mana threatened to overwhelm him. But with Barnes' guidance and steady encouragement, he persevered, learning to regulate the flow and maintain harmony within himself.

The days began to go by and Ray's mastery over the art of refining mana within his body improved. He could sense the subtle nuances of different mana types, distinguishing their qualities and harnessing them accordingly. It was a delicate dance of control where the slightest misstep could lead to chaos.