The Essence of Magic

Marcus paused, his gaze shifting to the boy beside him. "So, did you understand everything so far?" he inquired, awaiting the boy's response. The boy nodded silently, his eyes fixed on Marcus, eager to learn more.

"Good," Marcus continued, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Now, let me tell you about the history of magic and its origins."

He began by delving into the very essence of magic, explaining how it stemmed from the natural world itself. "Magic originated from the nature spirits, the fairies, and the dragons," Marcus elucidated, his words carrying the weight of ancient wisdom. "Each of these beings had their own unique connection to magic."

"Demons, on the other hand, harness a different kind of magic, derived from the power of chaos," Marcus added, his expression grave. "It's a dark and dangerous form of magic that few dare to tamper with."

"But for us humans, our understanding of magic came from elves and dragons," Marcus explained, his tone becoming more animated. "Elves learned magic from the nature spirits, particularly the fairies, who bestowed upon them the gift of magic."

"Dwarves, on the other hand, were blessed by the fire fairies and the earth fairies," Marcus continued, his voice filled with reverence. "Their mastery of magic and craftsmanship is unmatched, thanks to their close connection with both nature and the dragons, who taught them the secrets of the forge."

"And Beastmen," Marcus added, a note of admiration in his voice, "they were blessed by the earth and wind fairies, granting them strength and agility beyond compare."

"However," Marcus interjected, his gaze locking with the boy's, "humans are inherently weaker than these races. So, we learned magic by studying and emulating their methods."

"We compiled their knowledge and wisdom, creating our own method of using magic," Marcus explained, his words tinged with pride. "And thus, magic became a tool for humans to manifest their imagination into reality."

"But what is magic, really?" Marcus mused, his voice taking on a philosophical tone. "Magic is the manipulation of mana, the essence of nature itself. Mana is the life force that flows through all living things, and it is through mana that we can bring our desires to fruition."

"Which brings us to the next step," Marcus concluded, a glint of anticipation in his eyes. "Now, you must learn to feel the mana around you, to interact with it and channel it according to your will."

With a sense of determination, the boy closed his eyes, focusing on the bright, colorful orbs of mana that surrounded him. And as he began to glow with a radiant aura, Marcus could only marvel at the untapped potential that lay within the young apprentice.

"I'll be damned," Marcus whispered, his voice barely audible above the hum of magic in the air.