"Good. Now that your powers are unlocked, Axel, don't you think it's time for some training?" Olorith asked.
"Yes!" Axel blurted out eagerly. "I want to learn how to use my powers as soon as possible."
"Excellent," Olorith replied. "Then we'll begin immediately. The first thing you'll learn is how to use your magic defensively."
Korthok, overhearing, grinned. "That sounds like solid training. We should get some practice in too," he said, glancing at Ash.
Olorith frowned. "If you're going to engage in your barbaric training, please do it a safe distance away from us."
Korthok's expression hardened. "What did you just say?" he snapped." Come on Ash let's go"
"Good. Now that those two won't be bothering us for a while, let's begin," Olorith announced.
"What we'll be focusing on today is using your mana to create a protective barrier around yourself. Each type of mana produces a barrier with unique properties fire mana type barriers burn anything they touch, ice mana type barriers freeze, and so on.
Now Focus closely, Axel. To create a mana barrier, you must first steady your breathing and bring your energy under control. Feel the mana flowing through your body it moves like a current beneath your skin. Do not force it. Guide it.
Once you have that flow, begin channeling it outward not as an attack, but as a shield. Picture the mana spreading from your core and wrapping around you in a thin, invisible layer. That image is important; the mind gives form to the magic.
Remember, control and intent are everything. The mana responds to your will. Command it, don't beg it."
On the other side of the courtyard, Ash and Korthok were engaged in their usual physical training this time joined by Zaru.
Korthok smirked as he effortlessly knocked the two of them to the ground. "You both have impressive speed," he said, "but this session is about building offensive power. If you are going to learn my people's martial arts, you need to learn how to keep your opponent on the defensive."
Ash glanced at Zaru, and the two exchanged a determined nod before launching their attack on Korthok once more.
Watching them move in perfect sync, Korthok thought to himself, "Hmm… not bad. Could it be that their bond has grown stronger?
"Good, you two are doing great. Now I can finally start teaching you properly. I'm going to show you one of the Arts it's called Viper's Fang. This technique lets you condense your mana into your fist, multiplying your strength. How much it multiplies depends entirely on the power of your core.
Now, give it a try. Focus your mana into your fist you should be able to manage that by now. Feel it flowing, smooth and steady, from your core to the tip of your knuckles. Channel it carefully; imagine it wrapping around your fist like a living force."
Ash closed his eyes, centering himself and concentrating on channeling his mana into his fist. A flicker of green energy began to dance around his knuckles. "I'm doing it! I'm doing it!" he exclaimed.
Korthok gave a nervous smile. "Heh… you're only halfway there, but that's fine. Good enough for now. Let's get back to training."
Olorith watched Axel's progress, a sinister smile creeping across his face before he covered it with his hand.
"I knew it… this child's going to be a monster," he muttered, eyes gleaming. "Not only has he already formed his mana barrier, but his mana type…"
He bent down, picking up a small stone at his feet and flicked it toward Axel. The rock shot forward but just before it could hit, a small portal shimmered open in front of Axel, swallowing the stone whole. A heartbeat later, another portal appeared behind him, the stone bursting out the other side and clattering harmlessly to the ground.
"Finally… finally, I can get my revenge. I don't care how it happens just as long as it does. That's all that matters."
"Very good, Axel," Olorith said, a rare note of approval in his voice. "You've learned to properly harness the mana barrier. I'm quite proud of you."
Turning to Korthok and Ash, he raised his voice. "That's enough for today."
Korthok nodded in agreement. "I think so too. We've made real progress with Ash's power."
He smiled faintly. "Us as well. The boys should get some rest they've had a long day."
Turning away, Olorith motioned for them to follow. "Come along quickly I'll show you all to your rooms."