The sun dipped lower over the smoldering horizon, casting long shadows across the searing volcanic landscape.
Rudra sat, utterly still, in the center of his charred meditation circle.
Sweat soaked his black tunic, his hair clung to his neck, and each breath felt like inhaling fire.
Hours had passed.
The fire still did not 'breathe' with him.
No progress.
Yet still, he remained unmoving.
A soft chime interrupted the silence in his mind.
[New Passive Skill Acquired: Minor Fire Resistance: Lvl 1]
[Description: User has gained resistance to hot temperatures. Fire and fire Ki with negative effects are reduced in effectiveness by 20%.]
Rudra's eyes flicked open.
For a moment, the overwhelming weight in the air felt a fraction lighter. His skin didn't sting quite as much, and he didn't have to fight for every breath.
"…Not much," he muttered, rolling his shoulders and cracking his neck, "but it's a start."
He smirked to himself, getting ready to get back to the grind.
