The next day…
Ethan sat down cross-legged, his body still sore but refreshed after the strenuous session.
He reached into his pouch and pulled out several mana stones. The soft glow from the stones bathed the room in a pale blue light. He closed his eyes, steadying his breathing, and placed the first stone in his palm.
Slowly, he guided the flow of energy into his body. The dense mana within the stone pulsed like a heartbeat and then rushed into his veins, spreading warmth through his limbs.
The stone, once shining with brilliance, gradually dimmed and turned into a dull, transparent gem.
Its surface shimmered faintly, like a piece of polished crystal with diamond-like cuts. One by one, the stones lost their color and turned into clear opulent stones as Ethan continued to absorb them.
Sweat formed on his forehead as his aura flickered around him. A faint glow covered his body, growing brighter with each breath.
