Dream world

Alex, with his quick reflexes, manages to catch Linda just in time as she was about to fall. He swiftly carries her to her bed, making sure she is comfortable and safe. Maya, a skilled user of mana, senses the need to check Linda's mental and physical state. With a serene look on her face, she focuses her mana, sending it through Linda's body to assess her condition.

(Author's Note 1: Imagine a scenario where a person taps into their inner power and channels their mana to assess the mental and physical well-being of others. This incredible ability is denoted by the term 'A', which refers to the mana that the person sends out to analyze the subject. However, it's important to note that there's already a certain amount of mana present within the victim's body, known as 'B'. The two energies collide, with 'A' attempting to counteract 'B.' While this process unfolds, the 'A' and 'B' mana begin to clash with each other. Unfortunately, the 'A' mana is often too feeble and inadequate compared to the 'B' mana. Ultimately, the 'A' energy exits the body, leaving behind a detailed record of the victim's physical and mental state. Additionally, this practice can also lead to an increase in the person's heart rate. It's worth mentioning that the use of mana isn't always altruistic, as some may employ it for nefarious purposes. For example, by continually sending out an 'A' energy to another person's body, one can cause severe harm or even death.)

After Maya finishes checking on Linda, Alex comes near her and asks, "What's her condition?"

Maya says, "She is alive but has fallen into a coma. No...Not in the coma, she is gone to the dream world."

As Maya finishes checking up on Linda, Alex quietly approaches her and asks with concern etched on his face, "How is she? What's her condition?"

Maya turns to face him, her eyes solemn as she replies, "Linda is alive, but she has slipped into a coma. Well, not exactly a coma, but rather she has journeyed to the dream world."

Alex furrows his brows, confusion was written all over his face, "The dream world? That's just a myth, isn't it?"

Maya gives him a small smile, but there is sadness in her eyes, "Many people believe that, but the truth is that dreams are created and destroyed in this other world."

Worry creases Alex's face, and he asks, "Is there no way to bring her back from this dream world?"

Maya hesitates for a moment, contemplating her response before answering, "There is a way, but it's quite risky."

Concern lacing his voice, Alex presses on, "What is this way, and why is it risky?"

Maya takes a deep breath, steeling herself before answering, "I have to use a special spell that will transport me to the dream world, and from there, I can save Linda."

Alex's frustration with Maya boiled over, and he blurted out in anger, "Are you an idiot?? Do you seriously want to use the same spell that put Linda in this state?" Maya, not taking Alex's insult lightly, retaliated by punching him in the back before explaining her plan. "Hold on, Alex. Let me finish my explanation," she said. "First of all, it's not the same spell that got Linda trapped. If I intentionally transport myself to the dream world while being aware of it, there's a chance that I can wake up from the dream and then find Linda. We can then figure out a way to escape from this surreal place."

(Author's Note 2: The dream world is a fascinating and mystical dimension that exists beyond our waking reality. It is a place where creatures of all shapes and sizes slumber, caught in the grips of an unending dream. Within this realm, the laws of physics and logic bend and warp, creating a landscape that defies comprehension. The dream world is a place of infinite possibilities and endless wonder, where the limits of imagination are stretched to their breaking point. Whether you are a lucid dreamer or simply curious about this mysterious realm, the dream world is sure to capture your imagination and leave you awestruck. )

With an angry expression, he repeated his question, "So, the only peril lies in forgetting that this realm is but a mere figment of our imagination or realizing we're still ensconced within the dream?"

Maya's eyes brightened as she spoke confidently, "Oh, no. That's not the worrisome aspect, as I have devised a spell that shall reveal the truth of my state - whether I am slumbering or not. The real danger is that I am uncertain about how to find my way back to this magical world once I depart."

Alex's mind was consumed with regret as he quietly muttered to himself, "I still vividly recall the time when my mother was struggling with depression. If only I had been there for her, maybe I could have made a difference. But I foolishly believed that time would heal her wounds, not realizing that depression requires strength to overcome. That decision remains one of my greatest regrets in life." His heart ached with the thought of losing someone he cherished. "And now, if I let Maya slip away, I would be losing two of the most important people in my life." Suddenly, Alex's voice broke through the silence as he made his decision, "I am going to the dream world."

- To be continued.

(We apologize for keeping you waiting, but the time has finally come for a new chapter to begin. This installment marks the start of another exciting arc in our story, building upon the foundation that was laid in the previous chapter. While the previous chapter may have already initiated this journey, this next arc will take us on a new adventure filled with mystery, intrigue, and suspense. So sit back, relax, and allow us to transport you to a world of endless possibilities.

New arc 'Dream World'.)