Power is determined by mana core density, refinement, and control, not just raw output.
1. Hollow
Mana core exists but cannot absorb mana
No magic usage at all
Physically normal humans
Rare, pitied, or feared
Zane is publicly classified here (for now)
2. Initiate
Mana core has awakened
Can absorb mana very slowly
Basic spell casting or enhancement
Most students start here
3. High Initiate
Mana core absorption rate increases
Can circulate mana consciously
Can fight low-level corrupted beasts (Rank 1)
Most academy students aim to graduate at this level
4. Expert
Mana core becomes stable and refined
Mana circulation becomes semi-subconscious
Can reinforce body while casting
Can handle Rank 2 beasts alone
Many instructors fall here
5. Mid Expert
Dense, well-condensed mana core
Efficient mana circulation even under pressure
Can combine physical combat with magic seamlessly
Capable of leading squads
Professor Livia is here
6. High Expert
Mana core refinement reaches a threshold
Mana responds instinctively
Can fight multiple Rank 2 beasts
Rare in academies
Often commanders or elite instructors
7. Elite
Mana core partially transforms (glow, unique traits)
Mana circulation becomes fully subconscious
Can challenge Rank 3 beasts
National-level assets
8. Mid Elite
Highly refined and specialized mana core
Can suppress or dominate weaker cores
Territory-level threats
9. High Elite
Mana core near perfection
Can alter environments unconsciously
Feared even by elites
Walking disasters
10. Legend
Mana core transcends normal structure
Mana feels infinite to observers
Can fight Rank 4+ beasts
Rare to the point of myth
Advancement Rules (IMPORTANT)
To move up a rank, one must:
Fill their mana core to capacity
Condense the mana (density > volume)
Achieve stable circulation without backlash
Progress depends on:
Talent (absorption rate)
Bloodline (core quality at birth)
Techniques (circulation efficiency)
Resources (cores, elixirs, environments)
This is why:
Some stagnate for decades
Others break through in months
Bloodline families dominate history