Chapter 290: The Gap Seeking Technique

Chapter 290: The Gap Seeking Technique

"However, if you truly wish to go far on this path, this is still nowhere near enough."

Aksa gazed into Luo En's eyes:

"First, it's not merely about mastering the usage of three weapons—it's about reaching the realm of 'Resonance' with them."

His voice was low but powerful:

"Resonance means that when you hold a weapon, you can perceive its own 'will' and 'spiritual energy,' establishing a spiritual connection.

This resonance isn't limited to transcendent weapons—even ordinary iron tools can unleash unimaginable power in the hands of a true master."

"Can ordinary weapons also have spiritual energy?"

Luo En slightly furrowed his brows, this conflicting with parts of the theories he'd learned.

"Of course, but it's different from how mages understand it."

Aksa gave a light chuckle:

"We beastkin believe that any weapon forged absorbs the dedication and willpower of its creator, forming a special 'Resonance Field.'

Though faint, this field is real. True Artifact Forging Masters can perceive and amplify this field, achieving resonance with it."

He extended his finger, tapping Luo En's chest:

"The key is this: in battle, you must intuitively choose the weapon best suited to the current situation and instantly switch between usage modes. That is the true essence of an Artifact Forging Master."

Luo En nodded, silently committing these words to memory.

This technique sounded akin to a mage's spell construction—both required precise perception and control of mana.

"In our beastkin culture, the Artifact Forging Master is one of the most revered transcendent professions."

Pride gleamed in Aksa's eyes:

"In beastkin history, over half of those who became monarchs rose from the ranks of Artifact Forging Masters."

Interest flickered in Luo En's gaze:

"Monarch?"

Reverence flashed across the tiger-man's face:

"A Monarch represents the pinnacle of beastkin transcendent professions, comparable to humanity's Archmage. Every Monarch has achieved near-perfection in their chosen field, serving as spiritual pillars for our entire race."

The tiger-man rose, arms spread wide as if unveiling a grand tapestry:

"To advance from Artifact Forging Master to Monarch, one must master the ultimate technique known as the 'Gap Seeking Technique.'"

"Gap Seeking Technique?"

Luo En softly repeated the term, savoring its profound implications.

"It's an extremely arcane skill."

Aksa's voice deepened:

"Imagine facing an enemy and instantly detecting the smallest gap in their barrier or the weakest point in their attack trajectory.

Then channel your full power to strike that precise spot with your weapon."

Aksa suddenly slashed his claw—something in the void seemed to rupture, sending visible mana ripples outward:

"When you master the Gap Seeking Technique, your attacks will ignore any barrier, as you'll always find their flaws.

Against enemy assaults, you'll always discover countermeasures—even reflecting their power back at them.

This technique can even counter spell attacks."

A purely physical martial technique countering spell attacks?

Luo En felt astonishment—this nearly overturned his understanding of power systems.

"But mastering this skill comes at an extreme cost."

Aksa's expression turned solemn:

"You must possess transcendent-level perception abilities, honed through blood and fire trials."

The tiger-man lowered his head, regret evident:

"Because of this, even those with exceptional talent rarely reach the Gap Seeking Technique—less than one in a hundred."

A subtle fluctuation stirred in Luo En's heart—a familiar sensation of his profession interface updating.

[New profession advancement path detected]

[Artifact Forging Master (Two-Star and a Half)]

[Class advancement conditions:

1. Physique reaches 3.0 or higher √

2. Skill—Close Combat reaches Mastery Level

3. Skill—Intuitive Reflex reaches Proficient Level

4. Complete 30 life-or-death battles]

Luo En continued scrolling, discovering higher advancement conditions:

[Monarch Artifact Forging Master (Three Stars and a Half)]

[Class advancement conditions:

1. Physique reaches 6.0 or higher

2. Skill—Close Combat reaches Expert Level

3. Skill—Intuitive Reflex reaches Mastery Level

4. Skill—Gap Seeking Technique reaches Proficient Level

5. ???]

Luo En gently closed his eyes, organizing this information.

The conditions for Artifact Forging Master were already within reach—his physique met requirements, and life-or-death battles might be achievable through the Simulation Combat Device.

The greatest challenges lay in the two skills.

Under normal circumstances, mastering three different weapon types could take years.

But with the Simulation Combat Device's concentrated training, combined with his "Dual Soul", "Broad Knowledge", and synergistic learning bonuses from knight and mage professions...

Perhaps this timeframe could shrink to a year.

As for Intuitive Reflex training, that would be more complicated—but the potential rewards were immense.

The upper level "Monarch" felt distant, something he hadn't considered yet.

Still, learning that mastery preceded the expert level was an unexpected benefit.

"Master Aksa, I've decided to pursue this path."

Luo En finally said: "It doesn't conflict with my current plans—in fact, it's one of the directions I've already considered."

Aksa showed mild surprise:

"Have you truly decided? This martial training demands immense time investment."

"I possess some unique advantages."

Luo En smiled faintly, not elaborating on his Puppet Substitute, simply stating:

"I have special methods for physical training that won't interfere with my mage progress.

I believe parallel development across multiple paths will create unexpected synergies."

"For example, mage spiritual energy training enhances battlefield perception, which aids the Gap Seeking Technique's precision.

Meanwhile, an Artifact Forging Master's physical training strengthens endurance and spellcasting stability."

Aksa found Luo En's approach surprising yet admirable:

"Your thinking is remarkably innovative.

Traditionally, mages focus solely on spirit and mana cultivation, often neglecting physical training or relying on bloodline transplants. Yet you see the potential in combining both."

"In that case."

The tiger Artifact Forging Master rose, performing the standard beastkin martial arts bow:

"Starting today, I'll dedicate myself to teaching you everything about the Artifact Forging path.

First step—we'll evaluate your current weapon proficiency and create a specific training plan."

Luo En returned the bow, and the two began discussing training strategies.

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

He found the foundations solid, though advanced techniques still had room for improvement.

Next, they discussed selecting secondary and tertiary weapons.

Considering Luo En's physique and combat style, Aksa suggested a long spear as his primary weapon and throwing daggers as auxiliaries.

"The long spear emphasizes power and stability, enabling direct suppression in frontal confrontations.

Later, when you forge staves, you could attach spearheads for dual functionality."

Aksa explained:

"Throwing daggers require precise control and spatial perception.

This will train your Spiritual Energy Control while improving accuracy with alchemy bombs and other projectiles."

Luo En found these suggestions satisfactory—the two weapon styles would complement his existing power systems well.

"My breathing technique training can only occur during strong daylight hours."

He added, beginning to plan his schedule:

"The rest of my time will focus on basic physique forging.

Now I can dedicate those hours to weapon training, maximizing efficiency."

Aksa nodded in agreement:

"The order and timing of training matter greatly. I recommend practicing the long spear in the afternoon and throwing daggers at dusk."

He explained:

"Each weapon has optimal training times and environments.

The spear demands explosive power and endurance—best trained when your body is fresh in the afternoon.

Throwing daggers require intense focus and judgment—dusk's shifting light conditions will train your adaptability."

Luo En committed these tips to memory, constructing a comprehensive training plan in his mind.

After adjusting several details, a balanced Artifact Forging Master training regimen focused on efficiency and completeness took shape.

[New skill detected]

[Foundational Swordsmanship (Mastery Max) → Close Combat (Proficient 30/100)]

[Intuitive Reflex (Entry-Level 1/50)]

It was time to conclude this session.

Extended spiritual focus had left him mildly fatigued, and other matters awaited his attention.

"I need to leave now."

Luo En said to Aksa, "When we next meet, the formal training will begin."

Aksa nodded to show his understanding, saying nothing more.

As his consciousness gradually withdrew, the grasslands, stone platform, and tiger-man's figure gradually faded away, and Luo En returned to his meditation chair in the real world.

He opened his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling the abundant mana flowing through his body.

This simulation had been more successful than expected. Not only had he gained valuable knowledge, but it had also opened up a new career development path for him.

"The basic functions of the Simulation Combat Device have stabilized."

Luo En stood up and inspected the device's parameters:

"The Core stability has reached over 95%. It's now capable of supporting prolonged high-intensity training."

However, the biggest problem with the device right now was the limited number of enemy models loaded, with only Aksa's complete character model available.

To truly unleash the device's training potential, it would need more diverse opponents and scenarios.

"This next phase of development will have to wait until the Schoolalliance's review meeting in a couple of days."

Luo En pondered:

"With the demonstrated potential of this technology and the contribution points I've obtained, I should have no problem securing basic support."

He believed that once he received resources from the Schoolalliance, the device's potential would be further unleashed, becoming a powerful catalyst for his progress across multiple profession paths.

Putting down the now-empty teacup, Luo En retrieved the Rune Memory Pearl from his drawer.

The crystal orb lay silently in his palm, its interior shimmering with faint silver light as knowledge flowed quietly within.

"Next, I must continue advancing my studies of runes and enchantment arts."

He placed the Memory Pearl on a special stand before him:

"Mastering enchantment will be crucial for becoming an Ancient Alchemist, so I cannot afford any slack."

As he injected spiritual energy, the Memory Pearl immediately emitted a soft glow. The silver liquid within began to swirl slowly, forming a miniature vortex.

Knowledge flowed into Luo En's mind like a tide.

Each fragment was clear and layered, representing the accumulated insights of an experienced runemaster.

Lecturer Fulaidelike had indeed been generous.

The content within this Memory Pearl far exceeded typical entry-level instruction, almost covering all foundational knowledge frameworks of rune studies and enchantment arts.

Luo En immersed himself completely in this sea of knowledge, his spiritual energy firmly locking onto the flowing silver fragments, imprinting every detail into his mind.

The first thing presented before him was the basic classification and composition principles of runes.

Compared to what had been taught in class, the content within the Memory Pearl was far more systematic and in-depth, containing many critical details never mentioned in lectures.

"Rune essence is the solidified expression of mana. Every stroke and node represents specific mana flow directions and transformations."

Fulaidelike's voice echoed in his consciousness, as clear as if the lecturer were present:

"The most common mistake is to view runes as simple patterns or symbols while neglecting their intrinsic Mana Structure."

A foundational rune's construction process surfaced in his mind.

From the initial energy fluctuations, through intermediate structural formation, to final stabilization and solidification—each step was clearly visible.

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

"Manarunes form the foundation of all enchantments, responsible for mana absorption, transformation, and release."

Fulaidelike explained:

"Without a stable mana source, even the most sophisticated enchantment structure will be like water without a source."

As the explanation continued, a series of Manarune variations unfolded within Luo En's consciousness.

From the simplest "Mana Absorption" to the complex "Multiphase Transformation",

each came with detailed construction steps and precautions.

"Control runes act as the brain of enchantments, determining how mana flows and transforms", the knowledge stream continued.

"A meticulously designed network of control runes can make magical artifacts respond differently under various conditions, greatly enhancing their practicality and adaptability."

Luo En paid special attention to this section, as control runes were precisely where most beginners hit a bottleneck.

They required not only precise drawing skills but also clear logical thinking and a deep understanding of mana's natural laws.

"Effect runes represent the final manifestation of enchantments, directly determining the function and power of magical artifacts."

Fulaidelike's voice continued guiding him:

"From simple 'Guiding Markers' and 'Illumination' to complex 'Chaos Convergence' and 'Void Breath,' each effect rune has its unique construction logic and application scenario."

Then, the Memory Pearl displayed dozens of practical case applications of common effect runes.

From everyday items to combat equipment, they covered most practical areas of enchantment arts.

Fulaidelike particularly emphasized the combination principles of runes—this was the key to advancing from entry-level to proficiency.

The power of individual runes was limited. Only by combining multiple runes according to specific patterns could one unleash truly powerful effects.

Next, the Memory Pearl demonstrated several foundational yet practical rune arrays.

Such classics as "Micro-Glow", "Stable Circuit", and "Mana Conversion" each came with detailed construction steps and descriptions of their actual effects.

These were classic practice projects for rune students—safe yet practical, ideally suited for beginners to apply their knowledge.

【Rune Study (Entry-Level) Experience Points +1】

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

Even for a Full Mage like himself, the intense concentration and absorption of massive information had been a significant burden.

Walking to his workbench, Luo En retrieved a set of rune tools.

This was the premium kit he had purchased last week from the internal store of the Crystal Spire, containing rune pens of various materials, special ink, and multiple practice tablets.

He selected a silver-tipped rune pen and a practice tablet, beginning his attempt to draw the foundational Manarune he had learned from the Memory Pearl.

The pen tip touched the tablet, and a silver glow flowed slowly along his movements, leaving delicate traces on its surface.

"The mana flow must be continuous, with no breaks or stagnation."

He recalled Fulaidelike's instructions in his mind while his hands remained in motion:

"The mana density of each stroke must be maintained consistently, neither too strong nor too weak."

After completing his first foundational rune, Luo En felt somewhat dissatisfied.

Though the shape was basically correct, the mana flow was clearly not smooth enough, and the connections between lines lacked naturalness.

Runes at this level, even if activated, would have significantly reduced effectiveness.

"Indeed, there's a considerable gap between theoretical understanding and practical application."

He evaluated his own work.

"The essence of rune studies lies in 'completing the stroke in one breath.'"

Luo En once again recalled Fulaidelike's teachings as he decided to make another attempt.

He closed his eyes, repeatedly visualizing the rune-drawing process in his mind.

Imagining how spiritual energy should flow and how mana should transform, considering the angle and pressure for each stroke.

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

This time, without hesitation, he completed the entire rune in one continuous stroke.

The result was surprisingly good.

Though the lines weren't as neat as before, the mana flow was clearly smoother, and the rune as a whole emitted a more harmonious glow.

This was the preliminary embodiment of "completing the stroke in one breath", proof that he was beginning to grasp the essence of rune crafting.

【Enchantment Art (Entry-Level) Experience Points +1】

The experience point notification proved his approach was entirely correct.

As he continued practicing, he gradually found his rhythm and feel, his drawn runes becoming increasingly close to the ideal state.

After several hours of intensive practice, Luo En felt his spirit tiring, though the results were clearly visible.

He prepared to attempt the simplest rune combination—the "Micro-Glow Array."

This was a small array composed of three foundational runes.

It could produce a lasting, steady, weak glow, making it a classic entry-level exercise.

"The core of the Glimmer Array is balance",

he recalled Fulaidelike's teachings:

"The Manarune provides mana, the control rune regulates the flow rate, and the effect rune transforms it into light. All three are indispensable and must maintain precise proportional relationships."

First, he marked the positions of the three runes on the practice tablet, ensuring the distance and angles between them met the requirements.

Then, following the sequence of mana → control → effect, he drew the three runes one by one.

Each rune underwent repeated consideration and adjustment to ensure its shape and mana density reached optimal conditions.

Finally came the most critical step—connecting the three individual runes into a single entity.

This required additional connecting lines to guide the mana flow in a specific pattern between the runes.

These connecting lines seemed simple but were actually extremely demanding of the practitioner's precise control abilities.

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

Luo En focused intently, guiding his spiritual energy as silver light spread slowly between the three runes, forming a complete circuit.

When he completed the final stroke, the entire array suddenly emitted a faint glow, proof that the rune combination had successfully activated.

The glow wasn't intense, like the first star appearing as night fell, but its stability and endurance surpassed that of ordinary mana crystal light sources.

【Rune Study (Entry-Level) Experience Points +1】

【Enchantment Art (Entry-Level) Experience Points +1】

...

【Current Progress: Rune Study (Entry-Level 13/50)】

【Current Progress: Enchantment Art (Entry-Level 11/50)】

At this rate of progress, it would still take nearly half a year to breakthrough to proficient level.

Compared to his previous progress in alchemy, formulation, and bloodline transformation, Luo En felt somewhat dissatisfied with his advancement speed in enchantment arts.

"Still, after all, its star rating is one level higher than those three, so the difficulty naturally increases. I'll need to take it slowly."

He stood up and stretched his slightly stiff limbs.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end