Chapter 8 - Effect

Lunaria's mind went blank as she felt a surge of energy emanating from her stomach.

Surprisingly, it wasn't painful at all; instead, it felt like a cleansing force coursing through her body.

When the surge of energy reached her head, a profound transformation occurred.

It was as if her very soul detached from her physical form, transcending the boundaries of her mortal body. As she slowly opened her eyes, she found herself immersed in a boundless world, stretching far beyond anything she had ever known.

As she surveyed her surroundings, she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the sight of countless stars gracefully orbiting around her. It was a bewildering experience, leaving her uncertain about what was happening. However, amidst this celestial panorama, her attention was captivated by a sphere that stirred a sense of familiarity within her.

The sphere contained an abundance of mana, swirling and circulating in what appeared to be a chaotic manner. At least, that's how it initially seemed to her. Yet, deep within, she could discern a purpose behind the seemingly tumultuous movement. With each passing moment, she observed life taking shape and flourishing within the sphere, as if the very essence of vitality resided within its confines.

The strangely familiar sphere she beheld resonated with a peculiar connection she had recently encountered. It appeared to align with the icon she had seen on the ManaWeb displayed on the computer just moments ago.

Lost in deep contemplation, she allowed her thoughts to wander into the realm of possibilities. However, her musings were abruptly interrupted as the pull of reality soon brought her back to the present moment.

*Huff, huff

'What just happened?'

She wondered, gasping for breath and clutching her chest in the wake of the strange occurrence.

A fleeting sense of understanding washed over her, as if she had briefly grasped the elusive concept of the astral form. However, much to her frustration, the clarity she had achieved slipped away from her consciousness in mere seconds. It was as if the ethereal knowledge had dissolved like mist, leaving her with a sense of longing and an eagerness to recapture that elusive understanding.

What made her happy was that she sensed a glimpse of how she could become stronger. No, it wasn't just a fleeting feeling. The barrier that had hindered her from reaching Rank 7 seemed to have loosened significantly, suggesting an imminent breakthrough if she stayed on her current path.

In a strange twist, a sense of unparalleled clarity washed over her. Her mind, usually bustling with thoughts and distractions, now emanated a cooling sensation, imbuing her with a newfound level-headedness.

This unexpected state of mental clarity sharpened her focus and allowed her thoughts to align with precision. However, as empowering as this sensation was, it carried a tinge of overwhelming intensity.

The strength of the effect surpassed her expectations, causing a mix of awe and slight unease as she navigated the heightened state of her consciousness

Recalling that the surge of energy originated from her stomach, she wondered,

'Could it be related to the strange food we ate? Is this a cause for concern? No, Boss wouldn't do anything to harm me, I believe. Besides, we shared the meal together.'

Choosing to trust Luke's intentions, she decided to dismiss any worries. In fact, the newfound sensation was undeniably invigorating.

She then redirected her focus to the computer. As she continued perusing the grimoire, another surprise awaited her.

"How is this possible? I... I understand it much more easily now? And my memory has improved!" Lunaria exclaimed in disbelief.

Doubts began to assail her, yet as she repeatedly read through the grimoire, she was astounded by her heightened comprehension.

From the intricacies of spell formulation to mana circulation and even magic power emission, she felt confident that she could finally embark on learning Flying Magic through practice.

All she needed to do was commit the grimoire to memory and undergo a practical test.

It took nearly four hours to memorize the lengthy passages in the grimoire. Even she, herself, found it hard to believe that she had achieved such a feat, given her past limitations.

Reflecting on her previous self, she couldn't help but feel a sense of foolishness. Who would have imagined that a single meal could enable her to accomplish seemingly impossible task?

With the empowering effect bestowed upon her by the food, she felt as though she had reached the pinnacle of her abilities. However, the thought was quickly subdued as her gaze fell upon the man seated at the counter.

'As I suspected... Boss, who really are you? Extraordinary beings are truly an enigma,' she mused to herself.

Determined to put her newfound powers to the test, she resolved to begin practicing magic immediately.

Aware that nothing lasts forever, she realized she had to make optimal use of the food's effects before they completely wore off. Rising from her seat, she made her way towards the shop's exit.

"Boss, I'm going now. There's something I need to do. And... thank you," she bid farewell to Luke, though her parting words came out as whispers.

"Are you sure? You still have an hour left."

"I'll just come back tomorrow."

With those words, Lunaria stepped outside with a light stride.

"Eh? What? There are no refunds!"

Luke's words fell on deaf ears as Lunaria had already departed from the shop.

"Alas! She must be really busy. The computer addict has finally learned responsibility."

Seeing the countdown in the coin box of PC1, he muttered with a sigh.

[Power Off]

•••

— Lunaria's PoV —

With a sense of urgency, I propelled myself into a run. The effects of the meal's empowering boost still coursed through my veins, and I was determined to make the most of it by practicing flying magic before its potency waned.

Uncertain if such a miraculous opportunity would present itself again, I understood the rarity of the situation. Even the most potent elixirs couldn't grant me the same capabilities bestowed upon me by this fortuitous meal. Time was of the essence, and I had to seize the moment while the magic within me burned bright.

I dashed towards the nearest gate, maneuvering swiftly and gracefully through the bustling crowd without colliding with anyone.

The ordinary passersby remained oblivious to my presence. I moved with such unparalleled speed that I appeared nothing more than a blur. This seamless traversal through the capital was made possible by my adept control of wind magic, specifically the spell [Accelerate], which propelled me forward with remarkable velocity.

My precise control even allowed me to traverse intricate labyrinths in an instant so this much is nothing.

Reaching the south gate, I paused briefly to present my identification to the guard. Then, with determined steps, I headed towards the southern forest.

Deep within a secluded area of the forest, I found an open space where I could begin my practice.

As I called upon the wind under my command, a gentle breeze enveloped me, as if embracing its own kin.

And so, I commenced the incantation.

"Invisible paths, I traverse with grace,

A symbol of mystic in this sacred space.

Through veils of enchantment, take flight,

In realms unseen, let my magic ignite!"

With each word uttered, I felt the wind spirits bestow upon me their mystical enchantments, causing my body to feel lighter.

I sensed the wind lifting me from the ground, but...

*Boom

...I failed

A small mana explosion occurred where I had stood a moment ago.

I was thrown from my original position, blood trickling from my mouth. Coughing out the blood, I pondered about my failure.

The clash between the wind and my mana resulted in a disharmony that disrupted the proper casting of the magic. This unexpected outcome puzzled me, especially since the grimoire had outlined this process like this.

Determined to overcome this obstacle, I recited the passages from the grimoire that I had committed to memory, hoping to find a solution to my predicament. With each word spoken, I searched for insights and guidance within each passage, seeking the key that would unlock the harmonious integration of wind and mana.

Finally, I found it. Apparently, I needed to match the wavelength of my magic power and the wind spirit. This meant precisely controlling my mana so that the wind spirit would accept it rather than reject it.

It was undoubtedly a challenging task.

Undeterred, I decided to make another attempt, this time at a slower pace.

After chanting the incantation, I focused on the sensations the wind spirit bestowed upon me. Slowly, I circulated my mana, guiding the flow of wind. Yet once again...

*Kaboom

The same phenomenon occured.

This time, I was blasted even farther.

*Cough, cough

Not good. It proved to be much more difficult than I anticipated.

I tried repeatedly, but to no avail. The same outcome persisted, and with each failed attempt, I accumulated more cuts and bruises from the miniature mana explosions.

Disheartened, I wondered if this was my limit.

I remained the same, still foolish and disappointing. I then racked my brain for a solution.

The grimoire contained everything, including the potential problems I might encounter and their solutions.

It was clear that the issue lay with me and my limitations. I couldn't even follow simple instructions.

Why was I even born?

My pessimism seemed to surpass its usual boundaries.

Perhaps it was due to the depletion of mana caused by my trial and error.

If only I had heeded Boss's words and stayed for another hour. Maybe that could have made a difference.

Letting out a sigh, I rummaged through my pocket and retrieved a mana potion.

It had become a habit of mine to drink mana potions whenever negative thoughts overwhelmed me.

As a matter of fact, many mages meet their untimely demise each year due to mana deficiency. When the body lacks sufficient mana, it not only hampers magical abilities but also affects cognitive processes and clear thinking. Tragically, the toll can be so overwhelming that some mages even succumb to the depths of despair, choosing to take their own lives.

Aware of this grim reality, I have developed a habit of consuming mana potions when negativity threatens to consume my thoughts.

By replenishing my mana reserves, the potion has a calming effect on my mind. A soothing, cool sensation spreads through my head, bringing about a renewed sense of focus and stability.

I realized there was still much room for improvement. If only there was a teacher who could guide me.

An image of a man flickered in my mind, but I immediately shook my head. He had already granted me a tremendous opportunity. What more could I ask for?

Sighing, I conceded that seeking advice might be possible.

Unfortunately, returning to the capital was no longer an option. The gate had closed by this hour.

Engrossed in my practice, I had failed to notice the fading sky.

*Growl

My stomach grumbled in protest.

Sighing again, I longed for another serving of hot pot.