Estimated read time: 8 min
(This story is entirely fictional and has no relation to real events.)
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The surrounding forest was eerily silent. Only the rhythmic clatter of the horse's hooves and the creaking of the carriage wheels could be heard. At first, the noise was irritating, but soon, Alex's attention wandered elsewhere.
The Demon Forest was a terrifying place. How Almond and Maria managed to live here was nothing short of miraculous. Perhaps the barrier around them protected them from the monstrous Demon Beasts.
The carriage crossed the barrier, and Almond's sharp eyes scanned the surroundings. They had left behind their small, meticulously built home, taking only essential items with them. Everything else remained, preserved in memory.
Almond sat at the front of the carriage, alert for any danger. They were in the heart of the Demon Forest, home to countless deadly Demon Beasts. Thanks to Almond's experience, none had spotted them so far—a relief, as they did not want Alex to witness such horrors.
Meanwhile, Maria sat inside the carriage with Alex, explaining the mysteries of magic. Though Alex had been curious from day one, shyness had kept him from asking questions. Now, with the capital ahead, Maria carefully introduced him to the concept of magic.
"Magic," Maria explained, "originates from energy. There are various kinds of energy in this world, most of which cannot be directly used by humans. Yet, all living beings rely on them for survival. Age, breathing, food—everything depends on energy. Thousands of years ago, humans suddenly learned to manipulate three types of energy: Aura, Mana, and Pran."
Among them, Aura was the most common. More people could use Aura than Mana. Aura strengthened the body and weapons, essential for joining any kingdom's army. Though simple, mastering Aura required extreme training, and only those who reached peak physical condition could wield it effectively.
Mana, also called magical energy, entered the body directly and could take forms such as Fire, Water, Earth, or Air. It had limits, stored in a Mana Core, and could be used for offense or defense.
Pran, similar to Mana, was primarily used for healing and creating deadly poisons. Healers who wielded Pran were rare but extremely valuable.
Those who used Aura were called Knights, those who used Mana were Mages, and Pran users were Healers. All three were highly respected across kingdoms.
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Alex's thoughts:
According to Mother (Maria), there were three types of energy users in this world. Knights fought with swords, spears, or bows, serving in armies and councils. Mages cast spells—Fire, Water, Air, Earth—under the guidance of the Mage Council. Healers, like my mother, were rare but vital, guided by the Healer Council.
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After crossing three cities, Almond, Maria, and Alex finally reached the royal capital of Mefas. For Almond and Maria, this was routine. For Alex, however, the journey had been long, tedious, and dull. Yet, standing outside the capital, his curiosity slowly awakened.
The city was immense, its walls taller and thicker than anything Alex had ever seen. Archers lined the ramparts, and tall towers dotted the landscape. The Mefas Capital was considered the most fortified among all kingdoms. Its gates—north, south, east, and west—allowed controlled access.
Entering through the northern gate, the family joined the line of carriages. Elderly citizens and commoners waited in separate lines. A rude man shoved an older woman aside to take her place. Alex, observing this, felt a surge of anger.
"Some people have no respect for the elderly," he said softly. "If I were king, they would be punished immediately."
He extended a hand to help the fallen woman and her granddaughter. With Alex's help, the elderly lady regained her balance.
"You two were hurt. We have some medicine in our carriage. Come, my mother can help you," Alex offered with a kind smile.
Almond was impressed. He had not expected his son to step forward and help strangers. Maria, as a healer, naturally drew admiration, and Almond realized Alex had inherited his mother's compassion.
The two elderly women received treatment from Maria. Alex and Maria ensured they were healed before allowing them to leave.
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Meanwhile, in another part of the city, a young lady sat elegantly in a grand carriage, sipping tea. Her butler stood respectfully before her.
"Gather information about that boy's family," she instructed. "Also, send him an invitation to the academy. I do not want anyone kinder than myself."
"Yes, my lady," the butler replied, bowing deeply.
The young lady gazed out the window, pondering the city's dirt, thieves, and the thousands who entered daily without permission. She exhaled deeply, sensing that something significant was about to happen.
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To Be Continued