Seven Rivers Empire

It was common knowledge that, unlike monsters, humans weren't born strong.

To rise, they had to walk the path of cultivation—step by painstaking step, inch by brutal inch.

First came the Iron Rank—a realm most never reached. Out of a thousand commoners, perhaps one might step into it. From those few, only a fraction would ever break through to Silver. And even fewer still would ever catch a glimpse of Gold—the peak of mortal comprehension.

Damien was certain: back in Valthorn City, there were no more than a handful who even knew about the existence of the Channel Forging Realm.

And only upon reaching that realm could one construct proper mana channels—the very framework that supported true power.

So imagine, he mused, someone born with them.

Born with channels already forged?

Just how much of a head start would that give someone? How much of an advantage?

Damien couldn't even begin to fathom it.