Legacy of the forgotten soul

Kael stood over the fallen Shadowfang, its lifeless body sprawled on the forest floor. His breathing steadied as he began the methodical process of extracting the mana crystal from the beast. Mana crystals, or essence cores, were typically located near the heart or the head of the creature. These crystals were invaluable sources of power, used in various magical applications and enhancements.

"Nereia, where do you think the mana crystal might be?" Kael asked, his voice calm and focused.

"Usually near the heart or the head," Nereia replied. "To locate it, you'll need to spread your mana throughout the beast's body. This process can take a while, so be patient."

Kael nodded and placed his hand on the Shadowfang's chest. He closed his eyes and concentrated, allowing his mana to flow into the beast's body. He felt his energy spreading, searching for the distinct resonance of the crystal. After a few minutes, he sensed a faint, pulsing energy near the heart. Kael carefully probed the area and, with precise movements, extracted the gleaming mana crystal.

Kael drew his sword and carefully made an incision along the beast's chest. As he pried open the ribcage, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of disgust at the sight and smell of the beast's innards. Steeling himself, he reached into the cavity, feeling around for the crystal.

"Gross," he muttered under his breath.

But Kael knew that this was something he would need to get used to. Extracting mana crystals was a necessary part of his training and journey. Ignoring his discomfort, he continued his search until his fingers brushed against the smooth, hard surface of the crystal. He carefully extracted the gleaming essence core, holding it up to the light.

"I found it," Kael said, holding the crystal up for Nereia to see.

"Good job, Kael," Nereia praised. "That crystal will be very useful in your training and development."

With the crystal in hand, Kael generated a stream of water to clean the blood off his hand and the crystal. The cool water washed away the grime, leaving his hand and the crystal spotless. He also used the water to clean his sword, removing the blood and ensuring its sharpness and readiness for the next battle.

Satisfied with his find, Kael continued deeper into the forest. As he ventured further, the trees grew denser, and the air became thick with the presence of powerful beasts. It wasn't long before he encountered another creature, a formidable beast of the sixth rank. This beast was larger and more menacing than the Shadowfang, with scales that shimmered in the dappled sunlight and eyes that glowed with an intense, predatory focus. Kael recognized it as a Frostclaw.

Kael observed the beast from a distance, assessing its movements and calculating his approach. He decided to attack from afar, hoping to weaken the creature before it could close the distance. Summoning his mana, Kael formed water arrows, each one crackling with raw energy. He aimed carefully and released the arrows, sending them hurtling towards the beast.

The water arrows struck the creature's flank with a series of sharp impacts, drawing a roar of pain and fury from the beast. It turned its gaze towards Kael, its eyes narrowing with deadly intent.

"Nereia, it sensed me," Kael said, his voice tense.

"Stay focused, Kael," Nereia advised. "Keep your distance and continue your attack. You need to weaken it before engaging in close combat."

Kael nodded, maintaining his concentration. He formed another volley of water arrows and launched them at the beast, aiming for its vulnerable spots. The Frostclaw advanced towards him, its movements powerful and relentless. Kael knew that due to the tier difference, the beast was physically stronger than him, making this fight even more challenging.

As the beast closed the distance, Kael summoned a barrier of water to slow it down. The Frostclaw roared in frustration, slashing at the barrier with its razor-sharp claws. Kael took the opportunity to reposition himself, creating more distance between them.

"Good, Kael," Nereia encouraged. "Keep it at bay and strike when you see an opening."

Kael focused on the Frostclaw's movements, looking for any signs of weakness. He noticed that the beast's right leg seemed slightly injured, likely from the water arrows. Seizing the moment, Kael formed a concentrated spear of water and launched it at the injured leg.

The spear struck true, and the Frostclaw staggered, momentarily losing its balance. Kael didn't waste any time; he surged forward, his sword gleaming with mana. He slashed at the beast's side, aiming for its vital points. The Frostclaw roared in agony, retaliating with a powerful swipe of its claws.

Kael dodged just in time, feeling the rush of wind as the claws narrowly missed him. He countered with a series of rapid strikes, each one infused with mana to maximize their impact. The Frostclaw's movements grew sluggish as it weakened, its roars becoming more desperate.

Summoning his remaining strength, Kael channeled his mana into a final, decisive attack. With a powerful thrust, he drove his sword deep into the Frostclaw's heart. The beast let out one last roar before collapsing to the ground, its life force fading away.

Kael stood over the fallen Frostclaw, breathing heavily. The battle had been intense, but he had emerged victorious. He reached down and placed his hand on the beast's chest, preparing to extract its mana crystal.

"You did well, Kael," Nereia replied, her voice filled with pride. "Facing a sixth-tier beast and beating it at the 4th tier is no small feat."

"Thank you but that was exhausting," Kael said, taking a moment to catch his breath.

Kael carefully began the process of extracting the mana crystal, using his sword to open up the beast's chest. "I couldn't have done it without your guidance, Nereia."

Nereia's voice took on a playful tone. "Of course not. My essence flowing through you is what makes you so formidable."

Kael chuckled, appreciating her confidence. As he extracted the mana crystal, its ethereal glow illuminated the surrounding area.

Satisfied with his find, Kael continued deeper into the forest. His heightened and supernatural mana sense allowed him to detect the presence of powerful beasts and hidden locations. He remained vigilant, scanning the forest for any signs of danger or opportunities. After several hours of exploration, he felt a faint, unusual mana signature that piqued his curiosity.

Following the trail, Kael navigated through the dense foliage, his senses on high alert. The further he went, the stronger the mana signature became. Eventually, he reached an area where the trees grew even thicker, their branches intertwining to create a natural barrier.

Kael carefully pushed through the dense vegetation, using his sword to cut away any obstructing branches. As he moved forward, he noticed an area covered in vines and moss, seemingly blending into the forest. His heightened senses tingled, alerting him to the presence of a hidden entrance.

Intrigued, Kael approached the concealed spot. He carefully examined the vines and moss, running his fingers over the surface. The mana signature was much stronger here, indicating that something significant lay beyond. With deliberate movements, he pushed aside the vines and moss, revealing the entrance to a hidden cave.