“So, class, as a recap: your affinity will determine the rest of your lives. Along with your core grade and mana density, these will be the deciding factors in which path you take after finishing our classes in the coming week.”
An unreasonably tall and slender man stood at the front of the class. His white hair aged him beyond his years, though it was clear he was still in his prime. White hair was a common trait for those with air affinities, as it was well-known that frequent use and refinement of mana often caused physical traits to reflect one’s affinity. This also explained his deeply tanned skin, which sharply contrasted with his hair. Jin, the guild-assigned teacher for Sector 9.2, was blessed with a dual affinity. Air was his primary affinity, while Fire was his secondary core, granting him the hybrid Blaze affinity.
While dual affinities were rare and often powerful, the Blaze affinity was essentially a more intense version of Fire, enhanced by Air in terms of heat, strength, and range. It also provided additional benefits, such as access to greater mana manipulation, but it wasn’t considered highly valuable by the Guild. This likely explained why Jin had been assigned to teach the unassigned students in Sector 9.2.
“Over the next few days, we’ll complete your end-of-year exams,” Jin continued. “After that, you’ll take two additional tests provided by the Guild: the Affinity Test and the Core Calibration. These will not only reveal your affinity type—if you haven’t discovered it already—but also measure your core density.”
A dense, red-and-white ball of swirling mana appeared in Jin’s hand. It was no larger than a marble but radiated immense pressure, causing the students in the front row to feel lightheaded.
“I’m not permitted to use anything above high E-grade mana density in a Bronze-class gate. However, as a one-time exception, what I’m showing you now is the lowest-grade D mana density possible to produce.”
The marble swirled violently, the two mana types seeming to battle for dominance. Yet, after a few moments, the marble turned bright pink and solidified.
“What you just witnessed was the result of two processes: mana manipulation and hybridization, or as some call it, affinity blending.” Jin stepped forward and placed the pink marble on a small pedestal at his desk. As it made contact, the classroom lights flickered, and a deep thrumming sound emanated from the marble. The pressure in the room began to drop as the marble slowly shrank and faded.
“Hybrid mana is denser and more powerful than single-affinity mana, but it’s much rarer and more difficult to control. Most dual-affinity holders use each type separately rather than blending them.”
The marble eventually became transparent, seemingly disappearing to the naked eye. However, the pressure it emitted lingered.
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“The device I just used is called a mana dispenser,” Jin explained. “It takes pure mana in the form of crystals and releases it back into the atmosphere. This is one of the primary uses of mana crystals obtained from monsters.”
Jin took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and entered a meditative state. The pressure in the room seemed to gravitate toward him. Students with a keen enough sense could tell that Jin was absorbing the mana back into his body—a process known as circulation. Within seconds, the pressure dissipated, and a small smile crept across Jin’s face.
“The technique I just demonstrated is called mana circulation. It involves extracting passive mana from the atmosphere and absorbing it into your core.”
Turning to the blackboard, Jin began drawing a diagram. He explained the process in basic terms, making the concept clearer to the class. The atmosphere contains a baseline amount of passive mana, which can recharge a person’s core (or cores, for the lucky few). The core then converts the mana into the user’s affinity and stores it in the body. Each person has a natural absorption rate that happens passively, but the technique Jin demonstrated actively enhances this process.
Core density determines how much mana a person can absorb. Over time, through consistent use, a core’s density increases as it adapts to store more mana with each cycle.
“Once your affinity type and core strength are determined, you’ll have the option to register in one of three paths. The first, and most popular, is joining the Guild as a monster hunter. For this role, core type and density matter less than physical prowess. Mana can enhance your body and combat abilities, but it won’t help much if you lack the physical strength to handle it. The Guild offers various roles, but all require meeting a baseline standard.”
He paused, his tone growing more serious.
“The second option is to enter a craftsman role, which is Sector 9.2’s specialty. Those with Earth affinities are preferred due to their aptitude for crafting and construction, while Water affinities often specialize in imbuement. This path is safer but offers less growth and profit potential. Everyone starts at an entry level and works their way up.”
Jin’s expression turned somber. “The third option, unfortunately, won’t be available to everyone. For those who meet the requirements, the examiner may offer an invitation to relocate to the Guild headquarters in the underground hub city.”
He walked to the window, staring into the distance as though recalling an unpleasant memory.
“The requirements for this path aren’t public, so there’s no way to know if you qualify. The criteria vary between assessments, likely depending on Central’s current needs.” Turning back to the class, Jin’s face hardened.
“I must be clear: being invited to work under Central is a great honor, but it comes at a cost. You’ll leave this sector behind with no guarantee of returning. It’s dangerous, and not a decision to take lightly.”
The class sat in silence, absorbing his words. While most students seemed unwilling to leave their sector, the allure of a luxurious life in Central was undeniable. Refusing such a rare opportunity would be unthinkable for many.
“Alright, that wraps it up for today,” Jin said, clapping his hands. “Go home and get a good night’s rest. Tomorrow is your physical exam, and we’ll be heading outside the bastion for it. Any questions before I dismiss you?”