Chapter-4 Initiate

''Nano?'' Noland called out in his mind, a hint of anticipation creeping into his voice.

[Yes, Sir] the Nano Machine responded promptly, a calm digital voice echoing in his thoughts.

Noland sat on his bed, eagerly awaiting the familiar sight that felt both foreign and comforting. Soon, a holographic screen materialized in front of his face, along with the text written on it.

''Nano, go through my memories again and provide more insights on Magic and Mana,'" he instructed, his curiosity pulsing like a heartbeat. He was acutely aware of the power the Nano Machine held within him, the very reason for his resurrection after a life cut short. This time, he was determined to harness its capabilities to their fullest before stepping out into this unknown world.

[This world is filled with an energy known as Mana. They are minuscule particles woven throughout the air. One can manipulate Mana to command the elements and perform magical feats]

[To access Mana, one must become an Awakened. The threshold is set at fourteen years of age; upon reaching this age, individuals can visit the Church and utilize the Awakening Orb to unlock their latent magical talents. This talent will dictate the individual's abilities in the magical arts]

Noland nodded thoughtfully. "So, there's a rite of passage," he mused.

[Powerful Mages venture forth to combat monsters, drawing upon the magical energies released upon their defeat. This energizes the Mages, enhancing their strength and skill]

[Monsters also bestow various types of loot, invaluable for crafting weapons and tools useful in their quests.]

Noland's mind raced with the implications. He had a sense of déjà vu, akin to a video game he'd seen in his own world, where defeating a foe led to leveling up, but he quickly dismissed the thought; this world was vastly different from a game, a bit like but still different.

His musings shifted as he absorbed the information regarding Mages:

[Mages are formidable entities, capable of annihilating thousands of monsters and even humans with little effort. Their power is feared across lands]

The weight of this knowledge settled in Noland's mind. The unfolding reality was one of danger and opportunity, and he felt a surge of determination. If a Mage could harness energy from fallen foes, perhaps he could do the same — he needed a power of his own, a shield against both monsters and the unpredictable nature of humanity.

''Nano, initiate the scanning function. I need a detailed scan of my surroundings and present it to me in a 3-D view'', Noland commanded, clarity driving his words.

Instantly, a delicate blue light enveloped his surroundings, illuminating every corner of his room, responding to the command with precision. The light danced through the walls, revealing the layout of the home he inhabited.

[Scan Completed]

''This is incredible!'' Noland exclaimed, awed by the capabilities of the Nano. A new hologram materialized, showcasing a detailed, rotating model of his house. He could manipulate the view, turning it upside down, marveling at the interplay of light and shadow.

But his focus was fleeting; his thoughts drifted back to his primary quest.

''Nano, scan again, but this time, focus on the particles in the environment. I want to identify any that feel different from the norm,'' he said, intensity sharpening his gaze as he envisioned all that lay ahead.

[Scanning…]

The anticipation hummed in the air, mingling with his desire for growth. In his previous life, he had been plagued by illness; now, granted another chance, he was determined to eliminate any chance of weakness.

This world was harsher than he could ever imagine, teeming with dangers both known and unknown. To live a peaceful life, he needed strength, and mastering magic was the sole key. After a moment, the Nano returned with findings.

[Scan completed. A unique energy has been detected in the atmosphere, identifiable as Mana particles. The energy present is potent, but there is insufficient data in the system regarding its specific properties and applications.]

Noland's heart quickened. "'Can these energy particles be used to cast spells?'" The hope in his voice was palpable, driving him forward.

[Currently, I cannot perform magic due to the lack of substantial information. I can start the analysis right away though it will take considerable amount of time. However, should you encounter a Mage capable of casting spells, I can analyze their techniques and adapt accordingly]

His excitement dimmed slightly; he had anticipated that the Nano had more capabilities in this regard. Yet, he felt a renewed determination rising within him. "It's possible. I just need to find a Mage willing to teach me," he thought, formulating a plan.

Noland exhaled slowly, digesting the information. The thought of uncovering the secrets of Mana, of learning to wield its power before stepping into a world filled with dangers, thrilled him. He would not waste this second chance; he would forge a new path and arm himself with knowledge and strength before long.

''How long it will take for the self-analysis?'', he asked, his mind racing at the prospect of gaining an advantage before setting foot outside. He envisioned a future fortified with strength, knowledge, and the protection to live a tranquil life—far from the bitterness of his past.

[The time required will depend on the complexity of the mana and experiments. Initial results may be processed within days, while more advanced insights will require additional time for analysis]

"Hmm. I see. It's better than nothing." He turned his thoughts to a more pressing matter. "That aside, I think I really need to cultivate the habit of communicating with Nano in my mind. Otherwise, I might end up looking like a fool in front of everyone."

With a determined expression, he focused inward. "Nano, can that body-enhancing function be activated now? Are there any potential side effects from this enhancement?"

[Affirmative. Body enhancement is one of the primary functions of the Nano Machine. It can augment your physical abilities on a cellular level and strengthen your body several times over. There are no side effects to be expected from this enhancement, as the Nano Machine is designed to ensure a safe process]

Relieved by the response, Noland reclined on his bed, feeling the weight of the decision settle upon him. "That's good news. Can you initiate the enhancement now, and how long will the entire process take?"

[Since your body has never undergone enhancement before, the procedure will require approximately 16 hours to complete. During this period, your body will enter a deep sleep to facilitate a smooth and effective transformation]

Noland nodded slowly, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling in his chest. "Alright then, Nano. Please start the enhancement process."

[Affirmative]

As the room dimmed around him, a series of calming chimes echoed in his mind.

[Enhancement process will commence shortly. Does the host confirm the initiation?]

"Yes," he affirmed, his voice steady despite the anticipation.

[Starting the Body Enhancement program]

Noland could feel an energy coursing through him as the protocols for body enhancement were set into motion. The sensation was unlike anything he had experienced before—electric yet soothing, as if each cell in his body was coming alive in preparation for the changes ahead.

[Host will now be put into a sleep state to ensure optimal conditions during the process]

Nano informed him, its voice a gentle guide. As the words registered, Noland felt a wave of drowsiness wash over him. His eyelids grew heavy, a comforting warmth enveloping him, blurring the edges of reality. Before he knew it, he was drifting away, the world fading to black as his body began to embrace the transformative journey ahead.