SHIKARI’S HUNTING GAME (12)

Arex, eagerly seeking validation from Leomold, could not contain his excitement. "Leomold, did you witness that just now?" he inquired.

Leomold nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze filled with keen observation and a hint of understanding. "Yeah, I saw that one," he finally replied. "Can you manage to do it again?" he then added, however. Furrowing his brow, he scrutinized the newfound ability that Arex had just demonstrated.

With a simple nod, Arex positioned himself to execute the skill once more. Arex attempted to recreate the flameshots, his palms poised in the familiar stance. Once again, Arex effortlessly unleashed a torrent of scorching flames, mirroring his earlier display of power.

He brought the towering tree crashing down with a steady stream of flameshots that became increasingly intense. Nevertheless, Leomold could not help but notice that Arex appeared to be completely exhausted as a result of his unrelenting efforts.

"Ah, I understand now." After some time, Leomold finally responded. He leaned in towards Arex, his hand gently resting on Arex's left shoulder. "Although your mastery of flameshot is impressive and your ability to sustain a relentless assault is commendable, it is important to consider the potential consequences. The strain on your energy reserves may become overwhelming, posing a risk to your physical well-being in the long run."

The tone in which Leomold spoke of it had an air of caution, as if he were not simply explaining his assessment, but rather issuing a warning. Arex was left utterly speechless, struggling to catch his breath as he tried to take in every word that Leomold had just spoken.

"Could you please clarify your statement? I know that there's more to those words than just plain like that." Arex inquired, gradually uncovering the concealed passage within Leomold's words.

"Well, it seems your body could not handle it anymore." In order for elemental abilities to reach their full potential as formidable weapons, they require a significant amount of energy. Your flameshot could prove useful, but it needs more energy to maximize its damage against your adversaries. The more formidable your opponent is, all the more it will require you to exert energy. And yet…" Leomold deliberately halted his steps, his gaze fixed upon the fallen tree. He sought to assess the extent of the damage caused by Arex to its sturdy trunk.

"And yet, what?" Arex pondered, his voice filled with a hint of curiosity and intrigue.

Leomold knelt down, gently tracing the blackened bark of the tree, a testament to the recent onslaught by Arex. "...your body will not be able to keep up with the immense energy it will demand, Arex. You will find yourself utterly drained even before delivering the final strike, leaving you vulnerable to defeat, particularly at the hands of Lady Roxina." Leomold's response sent a shock through Arex's body, leaving him feeling unsettled. 

Arex felt a surge of optimism as he finally mastered a new skill. However, after hearing Leomold's recent revelation, a wave of discouragement washed over Arex, leaving him uncertain about his ability to maintain this newfound skill.

"If I can not maintain this power, what am I supposed to do to keep up with Roxina's strength?" Arex eventually inquired, seeking to comprehend the situation and discover an alternative path where he could harness this ability without depleting his energy.

"That is an interesting question, but given that we have only just discovered this newfound ability, I can not make any promises about how long you will be able to endure. This is your body we are still discussing, Arex."

"So, does this mean I stand no chance of emerging victorious, as my efforts will only be in vain?"

"That is not what I mean. What I meant is for you to put extra caution when using this skill of yours. It would be wise to refrain from using this power too often. Do not push yourself too hard, Arex. You have witnessed the profound impact it had on you, as if the repeated strikes against this tree unleashed a hidden power within and it's side effects on your body. So at least exercise caution. Also, I believe I have good news for you." Leomold eventually said, attempting to brighten the atmosphere between them.

"What is it?" Arex asked, curious as to what exactly Leomold may be talking about now.

"The herbal item I provided possesses the remarkable power to restore your vitality and expedite the healing process of any injuries you may have. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and make strategic choices when utilizing this power, as it can only be used once."

With haste, Arex retrieved the pouch and eagerly peered into its contents. Encased within a diminutive vessel of resin, it lay. A mysterious liquid with a haunting shade of deep green. 

"Looking at it makes me want to throw up, quickly. Are you really sure that I should drink this?" After some time, Arex finally mustered the courage to ask. His free hand gestured to point at the bottle on his right hand.

Leomold nodded in agreement, responding to Arex's question, which unsettled Arex as he was not comfortable with the suggestion.

"Fear not, for its appearance belies its true flavor," Leomold reassured Arex. "It appears that way due to the use of natural green leafy herbs from sage and gerana trees. They are incredibly elusive and can only be discovered within the depths of the mysterious Necropolis forest. Not every lord and shikari was aware of this, unless they were well-versed in medicine like myself and Lady Merfestina." 

"Then why did not Merfestina discover this?" Arex asked, his gaze fixed on the bottle in his hand as he tilted it, watching the liquid slosh back and forth within.

"Well, it is clear that Lady Merfestina was not exactly enthusiastic about these games. I understand why she continually avoids the hunt and ultimately chooses to collaborate instead."

"Ah, no wonder she came to me to offer to team up." 

"Oh, she already did? As expected." Leomold said with a laugh, as though he had already anticipated that Merfestina would eventually come to Arex.

"You knew she would?" Surprisingly, Arex could not help but feel taken aback by the fact that Leomold had knowledge of something and had never bothered to share it with him. "Why did not you inform me in advance about this? Or why did not you propose discussing with her prior to the commencement of the games?"

"Well, it is all due to the fascinating nature of Lady Merfestina's unpredictable behavior. She exudes an air of captivating intrigue, always finding a clever solution to any obstacle that comes her way. It is a bit intricate, yet not overly challenging to anticipate. It was no shock to me that she actually sought you out. So, did you agree with her?" Leomold then asked.

However, much to his surprise, Arex eventually replied, "No. I declined her offer though."