The call of a distant rooster broke the early morning quiet, and I stirred, my mind still hazy from the vivid dream that had lingered with me since waking. I opened my eyes and saw the others starting to rouse. Maya was already on her feet, lacing up her boots. Olivia sat cross-legged on her bed, her face contemplative as if lost in thought. Caleb was perched on the edge of his bunk, methodically rolling up his bedroll as though everything was part of a well-practiced routine.
Once we gathered in the tavern’s common room, we took a corner table and ordered a simple breakfast: bread, cheese, and porridge. As we ate in silence, Olivia spoke first.
“I had the strangest dream last night,” she said softly, her voice trailing off as if she was still processing it.
I paused, my fork hovering above my plate. “I had one too. It was… vivid. About runes and crafting. It felt more like something significant, not just a random dream.”
Maya nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful. “I had one too. It was about combat, but there was more to it. It was like the dream was urging me to think beyond just fighting.”
“I dreamed about the forest,” Caleb added, glancing at us. “Tracking game, plants… But it wasn’t just survival or getting stronger. It felt like it was about understanding resources, like how they fit into Erevos’s economy. It made me think I need to look at the bigger picture, not just focus on myself.”
Olivia set her spoon down, her eyes alight with curiosity. “Mine was about influencing people, but not in the way I expected. It felt… magical. Like I could guide actions, shift perceptions, and create illusions.”
Maya leaned forward, her voice low. “The fact that we all had these vivid dreams on the same night doesn’t feel like a coincidence. What do you think it means?”
“I don’t know,” I replied, furrowing my brow as I tried to make sense of it all. “But if it’s some kind of nudge, it’s working. I’ve been thinking about what I saw, and I feel like I need to explore rune crafting. That’s where I need to start.”
Caleb nodded in agreement. “Maybe these dreams are pointing us toward the roles we’re supposed to fill—crafting, combat, support... It does feel intentional.”
The conversation shifted as we started planning for the day.
“I’m heading to the library,” I said. “I need to learn more about runes and magic. If the dream meant anything, it’s that I need to start there.”
“I’ll come with you,” Caleb said. “There’s likely plenty of information about plants and animals in the library too. It’ll help me understand how this world works and what resources have value.”
Maya leaned back in her chair, a small smile playing on her lips. “I’m going to the training grounds. If my dream was right, I need to refine my combat skills, but with a focus on strategy—thinking ahead, not just reacting.”
Olivia’s gaze was steady as she spoke. “I want to find a trainer who can help me explore magic. Something like illusions or telepathy—whatever that was in my dream, it felt powerful and... right.”
With our plans set, we finished our breakfast and left the inn. The energy of the capital mirrored our own anticipation as we prepared to explore our individual paths.
While Maya and Olivia made their way toward the training grounds, Caleb and I headed to the guild library.
Walking through the library’s doors, we were greeted by the sight of towering bookshelves, their contents filling the space with the scent of aged parchment and ink permeating the air. At a desk near the center sat a man, deeply engrossed in a thick leather-bound book. His furrowed brow told me he was lost in thought, completely unaware of our arrival.
I cleared my throat gently, and the man looked up, blinking as if emerging from another world. His eyes settled on us, and he offered a polite smile, inserting a bookmark and carefully closing the book with a soft thud.
“Good morning,” I began. “I’m Ethan, and this is Caleb. We’re new here and hoping to learn more about the resources available in the library.”
The man rose from his seat, extending a hand. “Ah, welcome. I’m Loren, keeper of the guild’s library. It’s always a pleasure to see new faces eager for knowledge. What are you hoping to find?”
I glanced at Caleb before answering. “I’m looking to learn about runes—how they work, how to use them, and eventually how to craft them.”
Caleb nodded, adding, “And I’m interested in understanding the world better—its flora, fauna, minerals, resources, and the foundations of its economy.”
Loren’s eyes twinkled with interest. “An ambitious pair. You’ve come to the right place.” He gestured for us to follow. “Let me give you a brief tour.”
We followed him through the library’s ground floor, where Loren motioned to the rows of books and scrolls. “The library is organized by both topic and access level. The first floor is the Beginner Section, open to all guild members. You’ll find introductory texts on subjects like basic combat techniques, crafting fundamentals, herbalism, history, theology, and the foundations of magical theory and rune crafting.”
As we walked, Loren pulled a well-worn book from the shelf, showing us the title: A Beginner’s Guide to Runes. “This is where most people start their journey. The texts here are written for those new to their fields, offering clear explanations and illustrations to help build a solid foundation.”
We passed small alcoves with desks and chairs, where Loren explained, “The library has several reading rooms scattered throughout. Since no books or scrolls can be removed, these spaces are provided for focused study. If you need to copy notes or reference multiple texts, these rooms are ideal. You can purchase paper and ink at the guild store if you want to take notes.”
We reached a staircase at the back of the library, and Loren gestured upward. “The Intermediate Section is on the second floor. Access here is restricted. To get in, you’ll need to show competence in a specific subject—usually by completing a beginner-level quest that demonstrates your understanding. This section covers more advanced topics: complex crafting recipes, intermediate combat strategies, and deeper magical applications.”
As we ascended, the shelves grew more spaced out, but the books themselves were more intricately bound. The air felt different as we reached the third floor—a strange charge in the atmosphere, like the space itself was aware of its purpose. Loren led us to a smaller section, fewer shelves, and some half-empty.
“This,” Loren said, his voice softening, “is where the most powerful and dangerous knowledge resides. Ancient techniques, forbidden spells, and the secrets of magic’s true nature are kept here. Entry is only granted to those who’ve proven themselves to the guild masters or have accomplished extraordinary feats. And even then, the knowledge here comes with risks.”
Caleb and I exchanged glances, taking in the gate with its faintly glowing runes. Loren continued, “The Advanced Section holds texts that could change how you understand magic and the world itself. But such power requires discipline. For now, focus on mastering the fundamentals.”
We made our way back to the first floor, and Loren stopped near a table where he laid out the few books he’d pulled from the shelves during our tour. “For you, Ethan,” he said, gesturing to two titles, “I’d recommend starting with these: A Beginner’s Guide to Runes, and Runes and Their Applications: An Introduction.” Loren explained, “The first book will give you a basic understanding of what runes are and their core principles. The second goes deeper into their structure, meanings, and basic carving techniques.”
I leaned in, skimming the covers. Loren continued, “But rune crafting is more than just carving symbols. It’s about harmonizing physical skill with magical energy. Without that connection, even the most well-crafted rune remains lifeless.”
Curiosity stirred in me. “How do I unlock my magical energy?” I asked.
Loren’s eyes brightened. “Ah, unlocking your mana. It’s an essential step, but it’s deeply personal. Everyone has mana, but how you access it varies. For some, it’s through meditation; for others, it comes in moments of intense focus or clarity. There’s no one way—it’s about what resonates with you.”
A moment later, Loren returned with a slim pamphlet and handed it to me. The Essence Within: Unlocking Your Mana was written in elegant script across the cover. “This guide outlines techniques to help you discover your mana—controlled breathing, visualization, focusing on pivotal moments of emotion. These are starting points, but your journey is unique.”
I flipped through the pamphlet, taking in the diagrams and instructions. Loren’s tone grew more serious. “You’ll need to unlock your mana before you can activate any rune. Until you do, they’re just carvings on stone or wood. Your mana is what brings them to life.”
Turning to Caleb, Loren said, “And you, I’ll guide toward materials that match your interests. If you’re focusing on resources and economics, we have introductory texts that will help you build a foundation.”
As Loren and Caleb started to walk away, Loren turned back to me. “Remember, understanding runes will take time. Start with the basics, complete the beginner-level crafting quest, and that will grant you access to the Intermediate Section. As you progress, consider private tutoring or an apprenticeship with an experienced rune master. Rune crafting is a lifelong discipline—it’s not something you master in days or weeks.”
I briefly left the library to purchase paper, a pen, and ink. When I returned, I settled behind a small wooden desk, the book A Beginner’s Guide to Runes open before me. The leather cover, etched with faint runes, shimmered under the warm light of the library. I opened the book and ran my fingers over the text, absorbing the information with growing fascination.
The first chapter introduced the nature of magic itself, explaining the concept of Primordial Energy—the unseen force that flowed through all things in Erevos. This energy was divided into two complementary forms: Order Energy, which fostered harmony, creation, and healing, and Chaos Energy, which thrived on disruption, destruction, and transformation. Together, they maintained the delicate balance of the world. Rune crafting was the art of harnessing these energies, using intricate symbols and mathematical precision to shape them into tangible effects.
As I turned the pages, I came across an explanation of how runes functioned as conduits for these energies. Each rune represented a fundamental concept or effect, such as fire, light, sharpness, or protection. When inscribed correctly, these symbols guided the flow of energy along specific paths, amplifying or shaping its natural tendencies. The text elaborated that runes could be combined, with specific pairings or arrangements either enhancing, modifying, or even reducing the effects of the energy they channeled. This combination allowed for greater precision and versatility in their applications.
One example illustrated the use of heat runes. A single heat rune could generate warmth, but when paired with additional runes, it could control aspects like intensity, duration, or even the rhythmic pulsing of heat. A "continuity" rune could ensure a steady, unbroken flow of warmth, while a "pulsing" rune could create periodic bursts of heat. Other symbols might act as regulators, setting maximum temperatures or limiting the range of effect. I was fascinated by how these simple yet elegant combinations could create such nuanced outcomes, transforming basic effects into tools of incredible sophistication.
Though I couldn’t recall anything about my past, the principles felt intuitive. The mathematical relationships between symbols, the logic of energy flows, and the intricate balancing of forces seemed to click naturally in my mind. I couldn’t explain why, but the interplay of these elements felt second nature to me—like I had received a formal education in some related field. The precision required to craft these runes intrigued me, and the potential for creativity within their structured logic fueled my determination to learn more.
The book emphasized the dual nature of rune crafting: a harmonious blend of art and science. The artistic side required an intuitive grasp of the symbolic meanings behind each rune and how they influenced one another when combined. It demanded creativity, a sense of balance, and an understanding of the subtle interplay between order and chaos energy. The scientific side, on the other hand, relied on precision—exact measurements, geometric arrangements, and a deep understanding of how energy currents interacted with physical materials.
I found myself instinctively grasping these principles. The flow of energy through runes, their interactions, and the precision required to harness them reminded me of concepts I couldn’t quite name, as though the knowledge was just out of reach. Despite not fully understanding why, my affinity for patterns, structures, and manipulating energy made the complexities of rune crafting feel natural. It was almost as though I was destined to master this skill.
The second book focused on the physical process of rune crafting. It explained how runes could be inscribed on different materials—stone, metal, wood, and even parchment—each affecting the durability and potency of the magic. The material chosen was crucial, with stone being more durable for long-term enchantments and wood providing flexibility for temporary or portable ones.
One diagram caught my eye—a basic rune for illumination. The rune resembled a small flame enclosed in a perfect circle, with lines radiating outward. The text explained that the circle represented containment, while the lines allowed energy to radiate in a controlled way. To activate the rune, the crafter would need to channel a small amount of mana—the internal energy reservoir every individual possessed but had to unlock through practice.
The section on mana fascinated me. According to the book, mana was the essential bridge between the crafter's will and the Primordial Energy currents—those unseen flows of order and chaos that permeated everything. Mana was described as the fuel that animated runes, binding the crafter's intentions to the energy patterns inscribed within the symbols. This connection allowed the runes to manipulate the surrounding energy in specific, controlled ways.
The book also explained how certain runes could act as energy reservoirs, storing mana like a battery. These runes, often inscribed on durable materials like stone or metal, absorbed mana or ambient energy over time and held it until needed. Some could be "charged" manually by the crafter, while others passively drew energy from the environment. A storage rune could hold heat to keep a traveler warm or contain light energy to illuminate a room when activated.
Other runes, by contrast, were designed to release stored energy. Some released it in a steady flow, perfect for maintaining continuous effects like protective shields or sustained light. Others released energy in bursts, ideal for offensive spells or emergencies. For example, a heat rune combined with a burst-effect rune could create an instant flash of fire, while the same heat rune paired with a steady-flow rune would provide a consistent source of warmth.
The text also delved into the interaction between different types of runes. Storage runes often worked in tandem with release runes, creating a seamless circuit of energy. A skilled crafter could design a system where several storage runes powered a single release rune, amplifying its effects. Alternatively, release runes could channel energy with precision, ensuring no excess was wasted. For example, a network of linked runes could control the flow of heat, regulating both its temperature and duration, creating a balanced, reliable energy source.
I found myself utterly absorbed in this concept. The logic behind storing, channeling, and releasing energy clicked with me on an instinctive level. Rune crafting wasn’t just about harnessing power—it was about mastering the flow of that power, using the runes as more than just tools. They were an extension of my will and creativity. I could already see how dangerous they could be. A rune meant to provide light or warmth could become a deadly explosive force if miscalculated.
As I leaned back, letting this knowledge settle in, it became clear that rune crafting was a discipline of immense complexity and potential. The intricate balance of order and chaos energy, the blend of art and science, and the need to master mana all aligned with my natural inclination to solve problems and create. It was like I had stumbled upon the key to understanding the world in ways I hadn’t imagined before.
This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.
The last pages of the introduction outlined the journey of a novice rune crafter. I learned that beginner crafters typically started with simple runes for light, sharpness, or minor protection, gradually progressing to more complex designs. The text hinted at advanced runes—symbols that could reshape reality itself. These were gateways to unimaginable power, accessible only to those with the skill and discipline to master them.
Closing the book, I felt a surge of resolve. Rune crafting wasn’t just a skill—it was a profound method of shaping the world, a language that bridged the physical and the ethereal. Each rune was a key to unlocking the hidden forces of Erevos. I was captivated by the endless possibilities. My fingers brushed against the smooth surface of the rune stone in my pocket. That moment solidified something for me: rune crafting wasn’t just an option anymore—it was my calling.
Before I could reflect further, a flashing notification in the corner of my vision caught my attention. I focused on it and opened my virtual interface. Lines of text appeared before me:
Congratulations! You have completed an intensive study session on the basics of rune crafting. Stat Increase: Intelligence +1, Wisdom +1 Experience Gained: 300 XP
My experience bar shifted noticeably, filling nearly a third of the way toward the next level. I stared at the screen in awe. Not only had my mind sharpened, but I was also advancing in Erevos in a way that didn’t involve combat. The system clearly rewarded intellectual pursuits as much as it did physical challenges.
My stomach growled, breaking my concentration. Standing up and stretching, I made a mental note to return after a meal—there was still so much more to learn. For now, I needed to find Caleb.
I wandered through the quiet aisles of the guild library, my mind still buzzing from what I’d learned earlier. I soon spotted Caleb, seated at a large oak table beneath a hanging lantern. Spread before him was a detailed map, and he was absorbed in his work, tracing routes and jotting notes in a small journal. I approached him with a grin, my hunger momentarily forgotten.
Caleb looked up as I drew near, acknowledging me with a nod before returning his focus to the map.
"Caleb," I said, tapping his shoulder lightly. "Ready for lunch?"
Caleb glanced up from his map, his serious expression easing into a grin. "Yeah, I’m starving. Let’s grab something nearby. You look like you’ve been glued to those books all morning."
"Feels like it," I admitted with a chuckle. "I’ll tell you about what I found, but then I’m heading back—I’ve barely scratched the surface."
We left the guild and stepped into the bustling midday streets. It didn’t take long to find a small, inviting tavern tucked into a side alley. Inside, the tavern was lively but not too crowded. The smell of roasting meat and freshly baked bread made our stomachs growl in unison. We found a small table near the window, ordered a simple meal of stew, bread, and ale, and sat down to eat.
As we dug in, I began sharing what I’d discovered. "The library is incredible. I’ve been diving into rune crafting, and honestly, I think it’s my path. It’s this perfect mix of science and art—balancing precise geometry with manipulating energy. Did you know you can create runes to store energy like a battery, or release it in controlled bursts?"
Caleb raised an eyebrow. "That sounds... intricate. And dangerous."
"It can be," I agreed. "But the potential is enormous. There’s a whole framework behind it, tied to understanding the world’s energy currents—what they call order and chaos. I’ll need to unlock my mana before I can activate any runes, though."
Caleb nodded thoughtfully. "It’s fascinating how the world operates. I’ve been studying maps and trade systems, but there’s so much more to uncover. After lunch, I want to focus on understanding the resources of Erevos—plants, animals, minerals, and how they’re gathered or produced. I need to learn what’s scarce, what’s abundant, and what things are worth. Knowing how to leverage those resources could be a game-changer for us as a team."
I leaned back, impressed. "Sounds like you’re figuring out how to keep us funded and equipped. That’s vital."
Caleb smirked. "Let’s just say I’m not about to let us starve—or go into battle unprepared."
We finished our meal, energized by both the food and the exchange of ideas. The camaraderie felt good, and as we stepped back into the sunlight and headed back to the guild, I felt more motivated than ever.
Once back in the library, I returned to my reading nook. Loren had recommended a pamphlet titled The Essence Within: Unlocking Your Mana, and I eagerly retrieved it. Flipping open the first page, I settled into my chair, immersing myself in the fundamentals of connecting with the magical energy coursing through Erevos.
The pamphlet opened with an explanation of mana, calling it the lifeblood of magic. It described mana as an intangible yet ever-present energy, a gift from the Primordial Currents that flowed through everything. While everyone possessed a latent connection to mana, only those who actively sought to unlock and refine their connection could wield its power.
The first step to unlocking mana, the pamphlet explained, was awareness. Mana was like a dormant spark within all living beings, waiting to be awakened. To do so, one had to reach a state of heightened self-awareness. Meditation or intense concentration was key, with visualization exercises being a common technique. Imagining mana as a glowing pool within your body, pulsing in harmony with your heartbeat, was one suggested method.
The text also mentioned physical exertion or intense emotional states as alternative ways to awaken mana. These methods were less reliable than meditation but could still trigger the initial connection.
Once unlocked, mana could be absorbed from the environment. It existed in the air, the earth, and even in living things, forming an invisible network of energy currents. Techniques like controlled breathing or focusing on natural elements were ways to draw mana into the body. For instance, standing in a forest and connecting with the life force of the trees could help absorb ambient mana. Similarly, standing near a natural spring could speed up the replenishment of one's mana pool.
The pamphlet made it clear that an individual’s mana pool—the amount of energy they could store and use—was not fixed. With consistent practice, one could expand their capacity. Activities such as casting more complex spells, pushing the limits of their mana pool, and meditating regularly helped to increase it. As the body and mind adapted to channeling greater amounts of energy, the mana pool would gradually grow.
The pamphlet also noted that mana naturally replenished, though at varying rates. Rest was the most straightforward way to recover mana, with sleep being especially effective. Certain foods and potions could accelerate recovery, as could resting in areas rich with natural mana currents. For adventurers, learning how to manage their mana effectively—both in combat and during downtime—was vital to survival.
Two key attributes influenced an individual’s mana pool, expenditure rate, and recovery rate: intelligence and wisdom. Intelligence influenced how much mana a person could store, essentially reflecting their capacity for magic. Wisdom, on the other hand, influenced the efficiency of mana use and how quickly it replenished.
The pamphlet encouraged aspiring mages to cultivate both attributes. Intelligence allowed for more ambitious spells, while wisdom ensured that those spells could be used more sustainably.
As I absorbed the information, I couldn’t help but feel drawn to the logical yet mystical nature of mana. The idea that both intelligence and wisdom directly influenced my magical abilities was fascinating. I could see how enhancing both would open new possibilities for me in rune crafting, and I made a silent vow to work on strengthening those areas.
I closed the pamphlet, leaning back in my chair deep in thought. Unlocking my mana was no longer some distant, abstract goal—it had become a crucial step toward mastering rune crafting and understanding the true potential of magic itself.
I approached Loren’s desk, where he sat, absorbed in a stack of scrolls. “Loren,” I began, my voice tinged with a mixture of anticipation and resolve, “I’ve finished both books and the pamphlet you recommended. I think I’m ready to try unlocking my mana.”
Loren looked up, his sharp gaze meeting mine. He gave a small nod, acknowledging my progress. “Good. Understanding the theory is one thing, but the practical step—unlocking your mana—is an entirely different challenge. Follow me.”
I trailed behind Loren as we walked through the library and down a hallway I hadn’t yet explored. We eventually emerged into a serene garden, a hidden oasis within the guild. The space was unexpectedly lush, vibrant with greenery, soft moss, and a small, bubbling fountain at the center. The air felt different here—calm, yet charged with a faint hum, as though the very atmosphere was alive with unseen forces.
“This is the Meditation Garden,” Loren explained. “It’s shielded by noise-canceling runes, which block out the commotion of the guild and the city. Here, you can focus without distractions.”
I glanced around, taking in the tranquil setting. The soft glow of the runes etched into the stone walls added an ethereal touch, their gentle luminescence complementing the natural beauty. The sound of the fountain’s trickling water provided a soothing rhythm, enhancing the peaceful ambiance.
What struck me the most, however, was the sheer vitality of the plant life. Strange, luminescent flowers lined the pathways, their petals shifting between deep blues and purples. Tall trees with silver-tinged leaves stood at the edges of the garden, their branches curling in a way that felt ancient, as if they held secrets in their roots. Small vines coiled around stone pillars, their leaves trembling slightly, as if responding to some unseen current.
Loren noticed my curiosity and continued, “These plants aren’t here just for decoration. The guild cultivates special flora known for their mana-amplifying properties. The trees you see—Silverbark Elders—enhance the flow of ambient mana, making this place perfect for meditation. The flowers, Aetherblooms, passively draw in and release refined mana, creating a denser magical field. Even the moss beneath your feet helps stabilize mana fluctuations.”
I crouched down, running my fingers over the soft moss. There was a faint warmth beneath my touch, like a steady, reassuring pulse of energy. Subtle but undeniable.
“That’s Verdantweave,” Loren explained. “It anchors the mana here, keeping it from dissipating too quickly. Many adventurers struggling to unlock their mana find it easier to do so in this garden, where the natural energy is rich and concentrated.”
I stood, taking a deep breath. The air felt thick with something intangible, yet powerful. I’d never felt magic quite like this before. Standing here, surrounded by the gentle hum of living energy, I couldn’t help but feel that the garden itself was calling to me, urging me to tap into the hidden reserves of power within myself.
Loren gestured for me to sit near the fountain, where the ground was soft with grass. “Before you begin, let’s review the basics.”
He crouched down beside me, his tone calm and focused. “Unlocking your mana requires discipline and focus. It’s about connecting with the energy inside you and aligning it with the currents around you. Let’s start with your posture.”
I sat cross-legged as Loren demonstrated, making sure my back was straight and my hands rested lightly on my knees. “Good posture helps the energy flow freely through your body,” Loren explained. “Next, we focus on breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs completely, then exhale slowly. Repeat this rhythm—deep, deliberate breaths.”
I mimicked his breathing, feeling a subtle change in my awareness already.
“Now,” Loren continued, “focus your mind. Picture a glowing orb at the center of your chest. This represents your mana pool—small and dormant, but alive. Imagine it pulsing gently, waiting for you to awaken it.”
I closed my eyes, trying to visualize the orb. It felt abstract, but I trusted Loren’s instructions.
At first, my thoughts kept drifting—thoughts of rune crafting, my team, the countless questions about this world. Frustration began to creep in, making it hard to focus.
“Don’t force it,” Loren said softly, noticing my tension. “Let the distractions pass like leaves floating on a stream. Acknowledge them, then return your focus to the orb.”
I nodded, trying again. This time, I let my thoughts float by without clinging to them. Slowly, my breathing deepened, and I felt my awareness shift inward. The faint hum of the garden seemed to sync with my heartbeat, grounding me.
Minutes passed, though it felt like hours. My frustration ebbed away, replaced by quiet determination. I focused on the glowing orb, willing it to grow brighter.
Then, a spark—a faint warmth in my chest. It was barely noticeable, but it was real. The sensation spread through my body, a gentle current of energy. My mind sharpened, and for a moment, everything else faded away.
The orb in my mind’s eye flared to life, radiating light in time with my breathing. The sensation was exhilarating, yet calming—a perfect balance of energy and stillness.
I opened my eyes, steadying my breath. Loren was smiling, a knowing look in his eyes. “You’ve done it,” he said, his voice full of quiet pride. “You’ve unlocked your mana.”
A wave of accomplishment washed over me. I could feel the energy thrumming through me, a hidden reservoir of strength I hadn’t realized was missing.
“Now,” Loren continued, his tone shifting to something more encouraging, “this is just the beginning. You’ll need to practice not only using but also replenishing your mana. Like any muscle, the more you exercise it, the stronger it will grow—but don’t overexert yourself. Balance is key.”
He studied me thoughtfully for a moment. “Focus on expanding your mana pool and learning to control its flow. This foundation will be critical as you progress, whether you choose to craft runes, cast spells, or explore other magical disciplines. Take your time. Each step you take now will pave the way for your mastery later.”
With that, Loren rose, leaving me alone in the Meditation Garden. I continued sitting cross-legged on the soft grass, my mind still focused on what I had just achieved. The air around me seemed to hum with quiet energy, as though the space itself was aware of my newfound connection to the currents of magic.
Just as I settled back into my breathing, a subtle notification flashed across my vision:
[Mana Unlocked!]
I couldn't help but smile at the notification. The moment I'd been waiting for had arrived. Curious, I opened my virtual stats screen. My eyes scanned the familiar attributes, but now a new addition was there—a Mana Bar, sitting just below my health and experience bars. It was almost empty, displaying 1/10, a reminder of how much more I had to learn.
I quickly checked my Intelligence and Wisdom stats, both at 106, thanks to the earlier boosts. I remembered from the pamphlet that these stats directly impacted my mana pool size and its regeneration rate. My excitement grew, but I also knew I had only just begun. I also noticed that my experience bar had increased.
Determined, I closed the stats screen and returned to my meditation. The peaceful atmosphere of the garden was perfect for practicing. Following the techniques Loren had shared and those outlined in the pamphlet, I focused inward, trying to condense my mana into a tight, glowing sphere at the center of my chest. The process was difficult, requiring intense concentration, but I could feel the subtle resistance of the energy, proof that it was there, waiting to be shaped.
I opened my stats screen again and saw a change: 23/56. My mana bar had grown both in capacity and level. Encouraged, I shifted my focus, experimenting with different techniques. I imagined the mana flowing through my body, like a network of currents reaching my arms, legs, and fingertips. It felt like a warm river running through me, energizing every part of my being.
I checked my mana bar periodically, watching the capacity and level increase steadily. I practiced releasing mana in slow, controlled pulses, visualizing it flowing out of me and dissipating into the air around me. Then, I reversed the process, drawing in ambient energy to replenish my reserves. Each attempt became smoother, and I could feel my connection to the Primordial Energy currents deepening with every cycle.
Hours passed without me noticing. The mental and physical demands of the practice were tiring, but the progress was undeniable. When I checked my stats again, my mana bar had reached 421/421. The capacity hadn't increased for a while, and I realized I had likely hit my current maximum, determined by my Intelligence and Wisdom stats.
Feeling thoroughly drained but immensely satisfied, I stood up and stretched my stiff limbs. There was a sense of accomplishment that washed over me, the kind you get from pushing past your limits and discovering new potential. I made my way out of the garden and sought out Caleb, who was still deep in his reading.
“Time to call it a day?” I asked, my voice betraying my exhaustion.
Caleb looked up, smiling. “Yeah, I’m ready. Let’s head back to the inn.”
Inside the inn, the warm glow of lanterns filled the common room with a cozy ambiance. The murmur of conversation blended with occasional bursts of laughter from a nearby table, where adventurers swapped stories of the day's exploits. The clatter of tankards and plates filled the air, and servers moved swiftly between tables, delivering meals and refilling drinks. The familiar bustle of the inn felt comforting after the intensity of the morning’s meditation.
Caleb and I spotted Maya and Olivia sitting at a corner table, finishing their dinner. The rich aroma of roasted meat and fresh bread hit me instantly, and my stomach growled in response. The faint scent of ale and spiced cider mixed in the air, making it all the harder to ignore my hunger. A minstrel strummed a lute near the hearth, his soft melody adding to the inn’s lively yet relaxed vibe.
We made our way over to the table, and as soon as we sat down, a waitress approached. We quickly placed our orders, and the conversation flowed easily as Maya and Olivia started sharing their day. They’d been working with trainers all day, tackling an obstacle course that pushed their agility and endurance, and learning new techniques to improve their combat effectiveness.
“It’s grueling,” Maya said, flashing a satisfied grin. “But it’s paying off. I’ve noticed my stats improving already.”
Olivia nodded, clearly impressed with the progress. “The trainers know their stuff. It’s more than just swinging a sword or dodging attacks—they’re teaching us how to think in the heat of battle.”
As Maya and Olivia shared their experiences, Caleb and I took turns telling them about our day. Caleb dove into his research on maps and resources, explaining how the economy of Erevos worked. “Understanding the economy here could give us a real edge,” he said, his tone thoughtful. Then it was my turn. I told them about the library, about unlocking my mana and beginning to unravel the basics of rune crafting.
Caleb leaned in, his expression turning serious. “There’s something else I’ve been looking into—clans. I think it’s worth discussing.”
Maya raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Clans? Like guilds or factions?”
“Exactly,” Caleb nodded. “Clans are groups that come together for mutual benefit. They pool resources, share information, and tackle larger challenges. Being in a clan gives you access to shared vaults, special quests, and even discounted rates for guild services.”
Olivia tapped her chin, considering it. “Sounds like a solid idea. But would we join an existing clan or form our own?”
“That’s the big question,” Caleb said. “Joining an established clan has its perks. You get immediate access to their resources and connections, maybe even some mentorship. But the downside is you’d have to follow their rules and align with their goals. Plus, you’d be competing for resources with other members.”
Maya leaned back in her chair, her expression thoughtful. “And if we started our own clan?”
Caleb spread his hands. “Starting our own gives us full control. We set the rules, decide our priorities, and control how we grow. But it’s a lot more work. We’d need to recruit members, build our reputation, and fund everything from the ground up. It would take time and resources.”
I spoke up then, adding to the discussion. “What about alliances? Could we form partnerships with other clans if we started our own?”
Caleb nodded. “Definitely. Clans often form alliances for big challenges or shared goals. It’s one way smaller clans can hold their own against bigger ones.”
Olivia leaned back, clearly intrigued. “It sounds like forming our own clan could be worth it in the long run. But it’s a big step. Do we even have the resources to pull it off?”
“Not yet,” Caleb admitted. “But we can start laying the groundwork. We could build our reputation with the guild, earn some gold, and start looking for like-minded adventurers.”
Maya grinned, a spark of excitement in her eyes. “I like the sound of that. Why follow someone else’s rules when we can make our own?”
I nodded, the idea beginning to feel like something worth pursuing. “It’s definitely something to consider. Let’s keep gathering information and see where we stand in a few weeks.”
The conversation shifted to lighter topics as our meals arrived, but the idea of forming our own clan lingered in the back of our minds, an exciting possibility that could shape our future.
