Brush Up on the Basics P2

Eren delved into the first chapter of the book with keen interest, eager to expand his knowledge.

"Chapter 1: Introduction to Mana and Rankers.

Mana, an omnipresent and intangible force within the universe, has only recently been discovered by humans. Mortals cannot perceive or touch it, yet it exists everywhere.

Those who can sense mana but cannot manipulate it by forming a mana core within their bodies are known as non-rankers. On the other hand, those who can control mana by forming a mana core beneath their navel are called rankers.

Mana is both ethereal and real, capable of creating, altering, modifying, and even destroying elemental particles, seemingly defying the laws of conservation and equivalent exchange. However, mana itself adheres to its own set of rules, binding those who harness it.

Rankers employ mana to manipulate or override the classical laws of physics, a practice known as magic. Spells refer to the instructions and intricacies used to perform magic.

Magic, in essence, knows no limits, and no single form of magic should be considered superior to another. A ranker's proficiency in executing spells depends on various factors.

A skilled ranker can outperform a less proficient ranker even with a basic spell. Similarly, those who have attained higher ranks can use mana to transcend imposed limitations, enabling them to perform magic that can be seen as nothing short of miraculous..." Eren continued to read, sipping on his energy drink. Past Eren would never have spent 20 New World Coins on a ranker-exclusive beverage, but this Eren was different.

He was determined to ascend the ranks swiftly and willingly invested in his passion. The conversation with the mysterious entity still resonated in his mind.

"Seek, and you shall find," he murmured to himself, immersing himself in the text. He realized that most of the information regarding mana and magic was derived from experiences, prompting him to swiftly conclude the first chapter and proceed to the next.

"Chapter 2: Rankers and Their Path to Power.

Upon forming a mana core in their bodies, rankers attain the Rank 1 stage known as Metahuman.

There are several ways for non-ranked individuals to break into the official rank. Mana core awakening potions are available in the rankers' market, albeit at a steep price that not everyone can afford.

Another avenue is practicing ranking techniques designed for non-rankers. However, access to such techniques has become increasingly restricted due to governmental and institutional regulations worldwide.

Stimulating mana core formation through Oasis is also possible, but non-rankers can only utilize a designated section, which comes at a significant cost.

The most effective and economical approach for non-rankers to enter the official rank is through rigorous physical training.

Rankers who choose this path achieve higher body stat values compared to those who employ other methods. Therefore, training and exercise serve as the foundation of becoming a ranker.

Once they reach Rank 1, rankers can select a guild and gain access to the numbered Oasis affiliated with that guild. Further details regarding this progression are shared with rankers upon joining the guild," Eren read until his frustration peaked at the glaring omission of crucial information.

"Damn it, they left out the details about the numbered Oasis! These damn money grabber capitalists..." he cursed under his breath, conscious of his surroundings. This was a library, after all.

Despite his annoyance, he managed to suppress his outburst. He sighed and reflected on his previous circumstances. Acquiring this level of knowledge about rankers for free was already a miracle. With a dismissive shake of his head, he resumed reading.

Bits and pieces of information about Gilaahan and the numbered Oasis resurfaced in Eren's mind as he recalled his experiences as support staff and overheard rankers' conversations. To connect the dots, he needed the right information.

Other books were available for him to peruse, but their content remained inaccessible due to his non-ranker status. The dissemination of information within Elysian cities was strictly controlled, limiting access to rankers and above.

At this point, Eren didn't mind the restrictions on news. Even learning the basics of the city, common knowledge to all residents since childhood, served as confirmation that the memories he possessed as the original Eren were not delusions.

After a two-hour reading session, Miranda's call interrupted Eren's immersion in the text. He swiftly rose from his seat, ready to fulfill his primary duty of assisting rankers in preparing for their dive into the numbered Oasis.

As the rankers logged into the numbered Oasis, a protective energy shield enveloped each of their bodies, safeguarding them during their exploration of the Gilhaan landscapes.

Vik, Eren's alter ego, predicted that the energy shield would retract automatically when the rankers' consciousness returned to their physical bodies. This understanding arose from Reece's mischievous farewell kiss moments before his awakening in the new world.

By the time Eren completed his regular tasks, it was 7 PM, signaling the end of his guild duties for the day.

Reece appeared surprised when Eren declined her offer to accompany him.

"Go ahead, Reecy. I'll head to the gym now. I'll be home late," he assured her before parting ways.