Chapter 285

"However, if you truly wish to go further on this path, these are far from enough."

Aksa looked into Luo En's eyes:

"First, it is not just about mastering the usage of three types of weapons, but reaching the realm of 'resonance' with the weapon."

His voice was low and powerful:

"So-called resonance means that when you hold a certain weapon, you can perceive the 'will' and 'spirituality' of the weapon itself, establishing a certain spiritual connection with it.

This sensing is not limited to extraordinary weapons; even ordinary ironware, in the hands of a true master, can erupt with power beyond imagination."

"Do ordinary weapons also have spirituality?"

Luo En frowned slightly; this differed somewhat from the theories he understood.

"Of course, it is just different from how you wizards understand it."

Aksa chuckled:

"We Beastkin believe that any weapon that has been tempered will absorb the heart's blood and will of the smith, forming a special kind of 'resonance field'.

Although this field is weak, it is real.

A true weapon master can perceive and amplify this field, making it resonate with themselves."

He extended a finger and tapped lightly on Luo En's chest:

"The most critical point is that when you are in battle, you can intuitively choose the weapon most suitable for the current situation and switch usage modes in an instant—this is the true essence of a weapon master."

Luo En nodded, silently noting these down in his heart.

This technique sounded similar to the spell construction of wizards, both requiring precise perception and control of energy.

"Among us Beastkin, the weapon master is one of the most respected extraordinary professions."

Pride appeared in Aksa's eyes:

"In Beastkin history, more than half of those who became monarchs ascended from weapon masters."

Obvious interest appeared in Luo En's eyes:

"Monarchs?"

A look of awe flashed in the tiger-man's eyes:

"Monarchs are the pinnacle of Beastkin extraordinary professions, approaching the level of your human Great Wizards. Every monarch has reached a near-perfect realm in some aspect and is the spiritual pillar of the entire Beastkin race."

The tiger-man stood up and spread his arms, as if depicting a magnificent scroll:

"And for a weapon master to advance to a monarch, one needs to master an ultimate technique known as the 'Art of Seeking Gaps'."

"Art of Seeking Gaps?"

Luo En repeated the term softly, feeling the profound mystery contained within it.

"This is a technique that is mysterious and profound."

Aksa's voice became even lower:

"Imagine that when you face an enemy, you can instantly capture the smallest gap in their defense, or the weak link in their attack trajectory.

And then, concentrate all your strength to strike that point precisely with your weapon."

Aksa suddenly swung a claw, and it was as if something had been pierced through in the void; a visible ripple of energy spread out:

"When you master the 'Art of Seeking Gaps', your attacks will be able to ignore any defense, because you can always find the flaw in the defense;

Facing an enemy's attack, you can always find a way to resolve it, or even rebound their power back.

This technique can even counter spell attacks."

A martial art that relies purely on the body and technique, yet it could actually counter spell attacks?

Luo En was somewhat surprised; this almost overturned his understanding of the power system.

"But to master this technique, the price is extremely high."

Aksa's expression became serious:

"You need to possess skills that surpass ordinary weapon masters, refining your perception ability in the baptism of blood and fire."

The tiger-man lowered his head with some regret:

"Precisely because of this, even among those with exceptional talent, those who can reach the step of the 'Art of Seeking Gaps' are one in a hundred."

A subtle fluctuation surged from the bottom of his heart; it was the familiar feeling of the profession panel updating.

【New profession advancement path detected】

【Weapon Master (Two-star and a half)】

【Advancement conditions:

1. Physique reaches 3.0 or above √

2. Skill - Cold Weapon Combat reaches Proficient level

3. Skill - Intuitive Reflex reaches Skilled level

4. Complete 30 life-and-death battles】

Luo En continued to browse downward and found that the advancement conditions for the higher level had also emerged:

【Monarch Weapon Master (Three-star and a half)】

【Advancement conditions:

1. Physique reaches 6.0 or above

2. Skill - Cold Weapon Combat reaches Expert level

3. Skill - Intuitive Reflex reaches Proficient level

4. Skill - Art of Seeking Gaps reaches Skilled level

5.???】

Luo En closed his eyes slightly, organizing this information in his heart.

For the conditions of a weapon master, for him now, his physique had long met the standard, and life-and-death battles could perhaps also be realized by relying on the simulation combat device.

The biggest difficulty lay in those two skills.

Following conventional paths, cultivating three different types of weapons to the Proficient level might take several years.

But if he borrowed the simulation combat device for concentrated training,

Plus "Dual Souls" and "Broad Knowledge", as well as the linked learning bonuses brought by various Knight professions and Wizard system professions.

Perhaps he could shorten this time to about a year.

As for the training process of instinctive reflexes, that was a bit troublesome, but the benefits brought should be very great.

And the "Monarch" above that was a bit too far away; he hadn't considered it yet.

However, he did learn that above the Proficient layer is the Expert layer, which counted as an unexpected gain.

"Master Aksa, I have decided to try this route."

Luo En finally said: "This does not conflict with my existing plans, and can even be said to be one of the directions I had originally considered."

Aksa was slightly surprised:

"You have decided? These martial art trainings all require a large amount of time."

"I have some special advantages."

Luo En smiled slightly, not explaining the existence of the substitute puppet in detail, only saying simply:

"Regarding physical training, I have special methods that can avoid affecting my progress on the wizard path.

Moreover, I believe that the parallel development of multiple routes can bring unexpected synergistic effects."

"For example, a wizard's spiritual power training can enhance my perception of the battlefield, which is helpful for the insight and perception of the 'Art of Seeking Gaps'.

And a weapon master's physical training can enhance my endurance and spellcasting stability."

Aksa was surprised by Luo En's way of thinking, but also somewhat impressed:

"Your approach is very innovative.

Traditionally, wizards often focus on the cultivation of spirit and magic, while neglecting physical exercise, or relying on bloodline transplantation to compensate. But you are able to see the possibility of combining the two."

"Since that is the case."

The tiger-man weapon master stood up and performed a standard Beastkin martial arts salute toward Luo En:

"From today on, I will do my utmost to teach you all the knowledge and techniques of a weapon master.

As a first step, I need to evaluate your current level of weapon mastery in detail, and then formulate a specific training plan."

Luo En returned the same courtesy, and then the two began to discuss the training plan in detail.

Aksa first conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Luo En's swordsmanship.

He found that his foundation was quite solid, but there was still room for improvement in the application of some advanced techniques.

Next, they discussed the choice of the second and third weapons.

Considering Luo En's physical quality and fighting style, Aksa suggested he choose a long spear as a long weapon and throwing daggers as an auxiliary.

"The long spear emphasizes power and stability, capable of suppressing opponents in head-on confrontations.

When you forge a staff in the future, you can also attach a spearhead, making it one item with two uses."

Aksa explained:

"And throwing daggers require precise control and spatial perception.

This happens to be able to train your spiritual power control skills, and assist you in precisely hitting alchemical bombs or other projectiles."

Luo En was satisfied with this suggestion; these two weapon techniques could produce good complementary effects with his existing power system.

"My breathing technique tempering can only be performed during the day when the light is strong."

He added, beginning to plan his own time schedule:

"The rest of the time can only be used for basic body tempering.

Now I can arrange all this time for the training of weapon techniques, maximizing the use of time."

Aksa nodded in agreement:

"The order and arrangement of training are also very important. I suggest you practice the long spear in the afternoon and train throwing daggers at dusk."

He explained:

"Each weapon has its most suitable training time and environment.

The long spear requires explosive power and endurance, suitable for the afternoon when physical energy is abundant;

While throwing daggers require a high degree of concentration and judgment, and the changes in light and shadow at dusk can train your adaptability."

Luo En kept these suggestions firmly in mind, while constructing a complete training plan in his mind.

After adjusting a few details, a weapon master training plan that balanced efficiency and comprehensiveness basically took shape.

【New skill detected】

【Basic Swordsmanship (Proficient max) → Cold Weapon Combat (Skilled 30/100)】

【Intuitive Reflex (Entry 1/50)】

It was time to end this connection.

The long-term mental investment had already made him feel slightly exhausted, and he still had other matters to handle.

"I need to leave."

Luo En said to Aksa: "Next time we meet, we will begin formal training."

Aksa nodded to show understanding, saying nothing more.

As his consciousness gradually withdrew, the grassland, stone platform, and tiger-man figure gradually dissipated, and Luo En returned to the meditation chair in the real world.

He opened his eyes, took a deep breath, and felt the abundant energy flowing in his body. This simulation connection was even more successful than expected, not only gaining precious knowledge but also opening up a new profession development path for him.

"The basic functions of the mobile simulation combat device are already stable."

Luo En stood up and checked the various parameters of the device:

"The core stability has reached over 95%, and it can already support long-term high-intensity training."

However, the biggest problem with the device at present is that there are too few loaded enemy objects, with only Aksa as a complete character model.

To truly exert the training value of the device, more diverse opponents and scenarios are needed.

"The supplement for this step will have to wait until the review meeting of the School Alliance in two days."

Luo En pondered in his heart:

"According to the potential shown by this technology, as well as the contribution points obtained, wanting to obtain the most basic support should not be a problem."

He believed that once he obtained the resource support of the School Alliance, the potential of the device would be further released, becoming a powerful aid for the joint progress of his multiple profession routes.

Putting down the empty teacup, Luo En took out the rune memory bead from the drawer.

The crystal-clear crystal ball lay quietly in his palm, with a faint silver light flickering inside; that was the knowledge stored within flowing quietly.

"Next, I still need to continue to advance the study of Runology and Enchantment."

He placed the memory bead on the special stand in front of him:

"An Enchanter is crucial for becoming an Ancient Alchemist, and I cannot be the slightest bit slack."

Gently injecting spiritual power, the memory bead immediately lit up with a soft glow, and the silver fluid inside began to rotate slowly, forming a miniature vortex.

The knowledge in the memory bead surged into his mind like a tide.

Every fragment was clear and layered; this was the accumulation of insights from a senior Runologist.

Lecturer Frederick was indeed generous.

The content contained in this memory bead far exceeded general introductory guidance, almost covering the entire basic knowledge framework of Runology and Enchantment.

Luo En was completely immersed in the ocean of knowledge, his spiritual power firmly locked onto those flowing silver fragments, engraving every detail in his heart.

First presented before his eyes were the basic classification and composition principles of runes.

Compared to what was taught in class before, the content in the memory bead was more systematic and in-depth, containing many key details not mentioned in class.

"Runes are essentially the solidified expression of energy; every stroke and every node represents a specific energy flow and change."

Frederick's voice sounded in his consciousness, as clear as if he were there in person:

"The most common mistake is to treat runes as simple patterns or symbols, while ignoring their internal energy structure."

The construction process of a basic rune emerged in his memory.

From the initial energy fluctuation to the formation of the structure in the middle, and finally to the stable solidification, every step was clearly visible.

This intuitive display was more helpful for understanding than any text description.

"Energy runes are the foundation of all enchantments, responsible for the absorption, conversion, and release of energy."

Frederick explained:

"Without a stable energy source, no matter how exquisite the enchantment structure is, it will be like water without a source."

Following the explanation, a series of variants of energy runes unfolded in Luo En's consciousness.

From the simplest "Energy Extraction" to the complex "Multi-phase Conversion".

Each was accompanied by detailed construction steps and precautions.

"Control runes are the brain of enchantment, determining how energy flows and changes." The knowledge flow continued:

"A well-designed control rune network can allow enchanted items to present different effects under different conditions, greatly enhancing their practicality and adaptability."

Luo En paid special attention to this part, because control runes are exactly where the bottleneck lies for most beginners.

They not only require precise drawing skills but also require clear logical thinking and a profound understanding of energy laws.

"Effect runes are the final presentation of enchantment, directly determining the function and power of the enchanted item."

Frederick's voice continued to guide:

"From simple 'Guide Markers' and 'Lighting' to complex 'Chaos Convergence' and 'Breath of Void', every type of effect rune has its unique construction logic and usage scenario."

Subsequently, the memory bead displayed practical application cases of dozens of common effect runes.

From daily necessities to combat equipment, it covered most practical fields of Enchantment.

Frederick specifically emphasized the combination principles between runes, which is the key to moving from entry-level to proficient.

The effect of a single rune is limited; only by combining multiple runes according to specific laws can truly powerful effects be exerted.

Next, the memory bead displayed some basic but practical rune arrays.

Such as "Micro-light", "Stable Loop", and "Energy Conversion", each accompanied by detailed construction steps and descriptions of actual effects.

These are classic practice projects for rune learners, both safe and practical, very suitable for beginners to practice.

【Runology (Entry) Experience +1】

As the last wisp of the knowledge flow dissipated, Luo En slowly opened his eyes.

The high concentration of spirit and the reception of a large amount of information were no small burden even for a formal wizard like him.

Walking to the experimental bench, Luo En took out a set of rune tools.

This was a high-grade set he bought from the internal store of the Crystal Spire last week, containing rune pens of various materials, special inks, and various practice boards.

He chose a silver-tipped rune pen and a practice board, and began to try drawing the basic energy runes learned from the memory bead.

The pen tip touched the practice board lightly, and a silver light flowed slowly with his movements, leaving delicate traces on its surface.

"The flow of energy must be coherent, without any breakpoints or stagnation."

He recalled Frederick's guidance in his heart, his hand movements not stopping:

"The energy density of every stroke must also be kept consistent, not fluctuating between strong and weak."

After completing the first basic rune, Luo En was somewhat dissatisfied.

Although the shape was basically correct, the energy flow was clearly not smooth enough, and the connection between the lines was not natural enough.

For a rune of this level, even if it could be activated, its effect would be greatly discounted.

"Sure enough, there is a not-so-small gap between theoretical understanding and practical operation."

He evaluated his work.

"The essence of Runology lies in 'doing it in one go'."

Luo En recalled Frederick's teaching again and decided to try it.

He closed his eyes and repeatedly simulated the drawing process of the rune in his heart.

Imagining how spiritual power flows, how energy is converted, and at what angle and force every stroke should be completed.

After a few minutes of mental preparation, he picked up the rune pen again.

This time, without the slightest hesitation, he completed the entire rune in one go.

The result was pleasantly surprising.

Although the lines were not as regular as before, the energy flow was clearly much smoother, and the rune as a whole also radiated a more harmonious light.

This was the preliminary manifestation of "doing it in one go", proving that he had begun to understand the essence of runes.

【Enchantment (Entry) Experience +1】

The experience point prompt proved that his attempt approach was completely correct.

As the practice deepened, he also gradually found his own rhythm and feeling, and the runes he drew became closer and closer to the ideal state.

After several hours of intensive practice, Luo En felt mentally exhausted, but the results were very obvious.

He prepared to try the simplest rune combination—"Micro-light".

This was a small array composed of three basic runes.

Capable of producing a lasting and stable faint light, it is a classic introductory practice.

"The core of the Micro-light array is balance."

He recalled Frederick's teaching:

"Energy runes provide energy, control runes regulate the flow rate, and effect runes convert it into light. The three are indispensable, and must maintain a precise proportional relationship."

He first marked the positions of the three runes on the practice board, ensuring that the distance and angle between them met the requirements.

Then, following the order of Energy → Control → Effect, he drew the three runes in sequence.

Every rune was repeatedly deliberated and adjusted to ensure that its shape and energy density reached the best state.

Finally, and the most critical step, was to connect the three independent runes into a whole.

This required additional connecting lines to guide the energy to circulate between the three runes in a specific way.

These connecting lines looked simple, but they actually tested the operator's fine control ability extremely well.

"The width of the connecting lines must be uniform, the angle must be precise, and the energy flow must be smooth."

Luo En focused on guiding his spiritual power, letting the silver light spread slowly between the three runes, forming a complete loop.

When the last stroke was completed, the entire array suddenly lit up with a faint light, proving that the rune combination had been successfully activated.

The light was not strong, like the first star that lights up when night falls, but its stability and durability exceeded that of ordinary magic crystal light sources.

【Runology (Entry) Experience +1】

【Enchantment (Entry) Experience +1】

【Current progress: Runology (Entry 13/50)】

【Current progress: Enchantment (Entry 11/50)】

According to this improvement speed, it should take nearly half a year to break through to the Proficient level.

Compared to the three major categories of Potionology, Alchemy, and Bloodline Modulation at the beginning, Luo En was somewhat dissatisfied with the improvement speed of the Enchantment discipline.

"However, after all, it is one grade higher than those three in terms of star rating, so the difficulty naturally has to increase; let's take it slow."

He stood up and stretched his slightly stiff limbs.

(End of chapter)