Chapter 29: Challenges and Discoveries
Noah and Ekiles exchanged smiles as they observed the surprised expressions of the other group members. It was the first time they needed to use their abilities directly, as in previous expeditions, they usually led the way, leaving the other members to deal with creatures along the journey.
As the mana arrows dissipated in the air, the surroundings were illuminated by the shining crystals scattered on the ground. One of the mages crouched down to collect some of these crystals, placing them carefully in a small bag, anticipating their future usefulness.
Curiosity about Theo's demonstrated ability lingered in the air, especially since there were few archers in the village, making it an often underestimated weapon. One of the mages expressed surprise, asking, "How do you shape mana into the form of an arrow? I didn't imagine that classes other than mages could do that."
Theo glanced at the young mage, whose eyes gleamed with interest, releasing a soft laugh. "It's not quite like that. I perfected these techniques over more than a hundred years. In the beginning, it was really challenging. Molding mana according to my will is a complicated task, even for Aqua and Safira at the beginning. With a lot of practice, I managed to incorporate these techniques into my abilities," he explained.
Everyone was amazed by Theo's explanation. At that moment, one of the healers took the initiative to ask, "Does that mean anyone with mana can do this?"
Theo nodded and added, "Exactly. Even for healers, who usually don't excel offensively, this skill is a great tool in dangerous situations. However, I always recommend that you also practice other forms of magic. For example, your teacher, Aurora, is experienced in fire magic."
The eyes of the two healers widened as they discovered that their teacher, previously unknown to them, also mastered fire magic. In this confrontation, the vulnerability of the healers became evident. Despite their ability to heal wounds, they realized that they might constantly need protection. In a surprise attack or in the event that the warriors defending them had to abandon them to engage in the fight, their frailty would be exposed.
One of the warriors directed his gaze to Ekiles and Noah, asking, "Can you do this too?" Noah stared at him and replied, "Yes, we can. As a swordsman, I integrated this ability into my techniques, calling it 'Sword Intent.'" In a swift motion, Noah unsheathed his sword, delivering a single strike that generated a cutting aura, splitting a nearby rock in half.
Impressed by the demonstration, the warriors asked excitedly, "Can we learn this?" Noah nodded and explained, "Yes, I am developing and refining this skill to teach everyone in the future." The warriors were thrilled, eager to acquire and master this new ability.
The group continued through the desert, now with a renewed sense of confidence, aware that they were accompanied by exceptionally talented individuals.
High above, Ariana observed the humans in the desert. She contemplated how her creations, the crystal scorpions, acted as a team, despite the defeat. The observation fascinated her, especially as she realized how humans were developing their abilities. The realization that the archer in the group was infusing mana into his techniques to create new skills indicated a remarkable increase in human strength.
Ariana, though a Goddess, was aware of her lack of omnipotence. This limitation made her experience surprises with the events in her world since she did not possess absolute knowledge at all times. She understood that this restriction in her abilities stemmed from the System, making her dependent on it. Despite her divine nature, Ariana knew she did not have the ability to create universes with a simple blink of an eye, gladly accepting her position.
This awareness did not bother her. The way she interacted with the System, allowing the evolution of her abilities and her world, was satisfactory for her. The power to be surprised by the new achievements of the living beings in her domain, along with interaction and various other species, was something Ariana deeply valued.
Ariana decided to reward the humans for their advances in Arcadia. Floating above the desert, she materialized a small chest in front of her, and with a graceful movement of her hands, a bright and enchanting sphere appeared. Carefully, Ariana placed the sphere inside the chest and tossed it toward the desert, in the area where the humans were heading.
As the wind swayed Ariana's hair, she contemplated Arcadia. Suddenly, a small fairy appeared by her side—the System.
"I didn't summon you," she said solemnly.
The System smiled, "Can't I be independent anymore?" he questioned.
Ariana released a light laugh and commented, "That's not what I meant. You never appeared like this; I found it strange..."
"I found what you were doing interesting, so I decided to come and help," said the System.
Surprised, Ariana looked at the small fairy in front of her and asked, "And how do you plan to help?"
"As you can see, everything you create is subject to the laws of the universe. But, as I mentioned before, in your world, you can shape things however you want. The laws of the universe are not strict rules to be followed," explained the System, making gestures like a wise teacher.
Still a bit confused, Ariana was starting to understand what the System was trying to convey.
"The new skill created by the laws of the universe for that human does not derive from you, but you can alter it however you want. Even for me, the System, it is impossible to predict what the laws of the universe will do. Therefore, as your System, I advise you always to mediate the interferences of the laws of the universe. Otherwise, everything in your world will be created and controlled by these laws, and you will be here only to create living beings," said the System, his expression becoming serious as he gave advice.
Ariana's expression changed, becoming more thoughtful about what the System had told her. It was a reality check. Until then, everything she had done in this world was to create living beings; nothing more than that had her direct interference. Other things were governed by the laws of the universe.
The System, seeing Ariana's contemplation, spoke, "But don't worry. I'm not saying that the laws of the universe are harmful to you. On the contrary, they are very useful. However, as your System, I wish for you to make decisions on the fate, abilities, and other things for the inhabitants of your world."
Ariana looked at the small fairy and nodded. "You're right. Is that why you came to me?" she asked.
"Yes, I'm sure understanding this is very important," said the System. With a spin, the little fairy disappeared, leaving Ariana perplexed.
The Goddess stopped and reflected for a while on what the System had told her. After pondering for a long time, she made a decision. With a snap of her fingers, that small item she had created returned to her hands; it was a beautiful shining sphere.
Ariana held it with both hands, and her eyes glowed with an intense golden. Her hair fluttered, and an infinitely powerful divine aura flowed from her body.
The Goddess of Death, who mostly remained calm, felt fear in her heart.
Some names flowed through Ariana's mind. "Common... Sparkling... Divinum... Primordial..."
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