Chapter 2: Mana

After 12 years,

In the tranquil solitude of the study, Grandfather and young Ray sat comfortably in plush armchairs, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight. The room was adorned with shelves filled with ancient tomes and artifacts, a testament to Grandfather's wisdom and years of adventure.

"Ray, my boy," Grandfather began, his voice carrying a tone of reverence and knowledge. "Let me tell you about the wondrous power system that governs our world, and the essence that fuels it—mana."

Wide-eyed with curiosity, Ray leaned forward, eager to absorb every word. "Mana? What is it, Grandfather?"

Grandfather smiled, his eyes twinkling with a deep well of understanding. "Mana, dear Ray, is a magical energy that flows through all living things. It is the essence of creation, the very source of magic itself."

Ray's eyes sparkled with excitement as he took in this newfound knowledge. "Can anyone use mana, Grandfather?"

Grandfather nodded, his expression serene. "Indeed, my boy. Mana can be harnessed by individuals with the ability to manipulate it. We call them fighters. But not all fighters are created equal. The color of their mana core, which resides within their stomach, determines their grade."

Ray's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean by 'mana core,' Grandfather?"

Patting Ray's shoulder reassuringly, Grandfather explained, "The mana core is a special organ within a fighter's body that stores and harnesses mana. It creates a reservoir of energy for them to perform magical skills. The color of the core signifies their strength and potential."

Ray's eyes widened with wonder. "What are the different grades, Grandfather?"

Grandfather chuckled warmly. "Ah, a curious mind indeed! Let me guide you through them. A red core signifies a beginner, someone who has just begun their journey. As their skills grow, their core can evolve into blue, green, yellow, and even violet, representing a knight, master, grandmaster, and king, respectively. Beyond that lies the realm of silver, gold, and platinum cores—emperor, sage, and sovereign. These are the pinnacle of power."

Ray's mind brimmed with questions. "What about the treasures, Grandfather? How do they fit into this?"

Grandfather nodded, impressed by Ray's inquisitive nature. "Treasures, my boy, come in various grades, just like fighters and skills. Normal grade is the most common, while rare grade treasures possess extraordinary qualities. Epic grade treasures are revered as legendary artifacts, and legend grade treasures hold immense power beyond mortal comprehension."

Ray's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Are there any treasures higher than legend grade, Grandfather?"

Grandfather smiled knowingly. "Ah, indeed there are, Ray. Demi-god grade treasures, imbued with the essence of ancient beings, and the elusive god grade treasures, said to hold the power of deities themselves. They are exceedingly rare and sought after by those who seek ultimate power."

Ray's voice quivered with anticipation. "And what about skills, Grandfather? How do they come into play?"

Grandfather leaned forward, his voice carrying a hint of admiration. "Skills, my dear Ray, are the manifestations of a fighter's abilities. There are two types: bloodline skills and acquired skills. Bloodline skills are possessed by individuals with the bloodline of ancient creatures, and they are often graded equal to or above A grade. Acquired skills, on the other hand, can be learned by anyone through skill books, and they vary in grades from SSS to F, with SSS being the highest."

Ray pondered for a moment before a mischievous grin spread across his

face. "Grandfather, what if someone has a red core but possesses a god grade treasure?"

Grandfather chuckled, ruffling Ray's hair affectionately. "Ah, the conundrums of power, my young adventurer. While a red core may seem modest, the possession of a god grade treasure could unleash unimaginable potential. It is said that treasures have the ability to enhance a fighter's abilities, bridging the gap between their core grade and the treasures they wield."

Ray's eyes shone with newfound understanding. "Thank you, Grandfather. This world is so amazing!"

Grandfather smiled, his heart filled with pride for his inquisitive grandson. "Indeed, Ray, it is a world brimming with wonder and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Embrace it, my boy, and let your spirit soar as you seek knowledge and adventure."

And so, in that cozy study, a young mind awakened to the intricacies of mana, treasures, and skills. From that day forward, Ray's thirst for understanding and his longing for adventure would shape his destiny, leading him on a path to uncover the secrets of the enchanting world that awaited him.