Asta's Adventure

Thus, three weeks had passed since they ventured into the Great Magic Zone. During this time, they mostly wandered around the area. David observed and studied the local flora and fauna, meticulously jotting down notes in his worn-out notebook. Meanwhile, Asta dedicated himself to training and battling mana beasts that frequently attacked their group.

Each fight left its mark on Asta's body — cuts, bruises, and even bites. However, he managed to avoid any serious injuries. Over time, Asta noticed something peculiar: his body seemed to grow stronger after every fight. At first, he thought it was just a coincidence, but he decided to test his theory.

By deliberately exposing himself to attacks from the same mana beasts, he confirmed that the damage he received became less severe each time. Sometimes, the attacks didn't even harm him at all. This strange ability thrilled Asta immensely. It seemed his body was adapting to the magical attacks of the beasts, almost as if it were building an immunity.

"I think I'm becoming invincible!" he laughed, rubbing a fresh bruise on his shoulder.

However, this discovery brought new challenges. Asta began intentionally taking hits from mana beasts, especially those with wind-based magic. He wanted to push his limits and ensure he could endure even more. Yet, his thoughts constantly drifted to Yuno.

"Yuno isn't just sitting around doing nothing," Asta muttered, clenching his fists. "He's definitely getting stronger too, and I need to be ready to beat him!"

With only a week left before they were to leave the Zone of Great Magic, David informed Asta about their next destination.

"There's something strange spotted nearby," David said, studying his map thoughtfully. "We need to check it out before we leave."

Their destination turned out to be a volcano.

"Welcome to the Ultime-Volcano Mountain Trail," David announced. "This place has an incredible concentration of mana deep underground, causing the volcano to erupt constantly."

The air around them was scorching and thick. The heat felt like it was searing their skin, and breathing became a struggle. It was as if their throats and chests were on fire.

"To reach the summit, you'll need incredible strength and determination," David continued, glancing at Asta, who had turned pale with fear.

"You want me to climb THAT volcano?!" Asta exclaimed, taking a step back.

Secre, perched on his head, began stroking his hair, as if trying to calm him down. Yet, even she understood that such a feat required immense mana reserves and precise control — qualities Asta lacked. All he had was his unshakable determination.

David coughed to break the tense silence.

"The volcano stops erupting at night, so you should be able to climb it more easily. But… you're not the type to take the easy way out, are you?"

"Of course not!" Asta shouted, his confidence returning. "I'll do it!"

With that, he began taking off his clothes.

"Hey, at least don't strip down completely!" David groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose.

A moment later, David remembered something important and stopped Asta.

"By the way, when you reach the summit, strike the center of the crater with all your strength. My father once told me that doing so will reveal hot springs. They're said to be the best in the world — incredibly relaxing for both your muscles and mind. You'll need that after this climb."

Asta's eyes sparkled like stars.

"Wooooow, hot springs!" he exclaimed, then quickly asked, "What are those?"

David smirked.

"They're kind of like a hot bath, but a hundred times better."

Hearing this, Asta was completely fired up.

"I'm going to conquer that volcano!" he yelled, and without waiting, leapt down the slope.

David watched as Asta's figure disappeared into the distance. With a sigh, he wished the boy good luck, then turned his attention to searching for the mysterious creature he has come here to find.