chapter 2
"Ah, young one," my Aunt Charlotte began, her voice tinged with a mix of mystery and authority. "I am your Aunt Charlotte, also known by the title 'The Curse Queen.' It seems that fate has finally brought you to our magical world, a place so vastly different from the Earth you once knew. On your former home, science reigns supreme, but here, magic holds sway in every corner and crevice."
Leaning in closer, she continued to enlighten me, her words weaving a tale that sounded both fantastical and yet strangely plausible. "In this realm, the essence of magic is embodied in a substance known as Mana. It is through the manipulation of Mana that one can wield powerful spells and enchantments, becoming known as a magician. Alternatively, one can infuse their very being with Mana, transforming into a swordsman of great skill and prowess. It is a rare feat for one to master both arts, a feat accomplished only by a select few, such as the individual you hold dear."
She paused, gauging my reaction before proceeding. "Do you understand the significance of the title I bear, 'The Curse Queen'? It signifies my proficiency in the dark arts of black magic, particularly focused on curses and debuffs. However, all individuals of the Expert Realm, where power is divided into three tiers—Beginner, Intermediate, and Expert—possess unique skills and strengths. Above them dwell the transcendental beings, beings of unimaginable power, most of whom serve as apostles of the gods themselves."
Aunt Charlotte's eyes glittered with a mixture of pride and caution as she continued, her voice taking on a somber tone. "Your uncle Utaibah, 'The All-Knowing,' is a master strategist and tactician, capable of turning the tides of any battle, no matter the odds stacked against him. He is the third-born of our family. Your father, the firstborn, and your uncle Omar, 'The Unyielding Blade,' the second-born, each possess their unique strengths and talents. Omar, in particular, is a warrior without equal, unafraid of death and always seeking the thrill of combat."
As her words settled over me like a heavy cloak, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and trepidation at the vastness of this new world I had stumbled upon. The weight of my family's legacy and powers bore down on me, a stark reminder of the dangers and wonders that lay ahead.
"Aunt Charlotte," I ventured, my voice barely above a whisper, "what is my role in all of this? What path am I to walk in this world of magic and intrigue?" Her gaze softened, a glimmer of reassurance in her eyes as she replied, "That, my dear nephew, is a journey you must embark upon yourself. Your destiny is yours to shape, your powers yours to wield. Embrace your heritage, hone your skills, and the path you seek shall reveal itself in due time."
With a nod of understanding, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the trials and tribulations that awaited me. As I looked around at the mystical landscape and the formidable figures that stood before me, I knew that my journey was only just beginning. The legacy of the Curse Queen and the powers of magic beckoned, and I was ready to answer that call.