Ben did not know what to do. He did not know what this affinity meant. Dual affinity was not new but was not a norm. Ben knew what a beast master was. Beast masters were often revered for various reasons. Once power of beasts and brain of martial artists come together, one can only imagine what happens. When they are perfectly integrated, it will be like fighting two experienced martial artists. Beast masters had only one companion animal. This was because, no one could bear the burden of raising a beast through various realms with their power. A companion beast should only evolve through the power of beast master. If not, its development will be stuck or may go out of the control of the beast master. Also, the evolution of companion beast puts considerable pressure on the mind of the beast master. Hence, having more than one beast was not possible.

Ben was concerned about certain other things. The resources required for beast masters were enormous. It was not something that he or his family could afford. Beast masters were graded according to the companion beast they had. If the companion beast was of the higher quality, the resources it requires will much more than the beasts of lower grade. But if there was a lower quality beast, he won’t be able to develop. Another concern was the space availability. He would need a beast bag, the smallest of which cost a fortune. Then the space required for the beast to rest in his house. They could not let the beast roam. It was a crime to let one’s companion beast roam. This was so that the beast did not attack anyone else. He also did not understand what a shamanic beast master is.

Ben went down and told his parents about this. His father and mother had a discussion with him.

John: “I know what a beast master is and I do know some particularly powerful ones. But what is a shamanic one.

Malina: The same with me.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

Ben: Well, I was looking forward to knowing my affinity. But after the revelation, I don’t know if it is good or bad.

John: Don’t worry. So long as you become the peak of Martial Noble rank or a Martial Lord, you can live your life. But I don’t want you to stop there. Aim for the apex, always.

Malina: Yes. You can dream and work for as much as you want. We will be there to support you.

Ben: Thanks Mom, Dad. I will work hard and will earn all the resources.

John: That’s my boy.

Malina: Your sister would pester you. Don’t tell her anything.

Ben: Yes. I won’t tell her.”

Their conversation ended. Ben did his school work and did the exercise. He searched in the network. But he did not get much information. It said that the Shamans were people who communicated with nature and such nonsense. He did not understand what this meant and how such a person could be powerful. He could only wait till tomorrow.

Soon it was the next day. He and his friends had a discussion yesterday. Saarsh had an affinity towards metals and crystals, a subtype of the ground affinity. It was perfect for artificer. Jim had an affinity for fire. It was somewhat a common ability. Rais had an affinity for spear arts and hence would cultivate a spear core. Roshin had an affinity towards pure energy. It was a nuanced field, which required enormous knowledge and skills. Each of the people with this affinity was a walking star ready to explode.

Soon he reached the school. Everyone was excitedly discussing about their affinities. When he asked around a few people in the other classes had affinities for beast master. But none of them knew what a shamanic beast master was. Soon the first period started. It was Ms. Sylvie’s period. After a short while teacher Mahaansh came. He came looking for Ben. Apparently, the principal had called him. Mahaansh and Sylvie did not look eye to eye. Soon Ben was out of the class. He was walking towards the building where the affinity tests took place. Mahaansh had his device and was doing something in it. He was not speaking. Ben after looking at his face did not have the courage to ask him what this was about. Mahaansh could sense this . He said, “ Don’t worry boy. I am not taking you to eat you. You are ready. Ready for the martial seed implantation.”