All students were waiting eagerly for the first class of Professor Leonhart.
He stood straight before the class, adjusting his silver-rimmed glasses. The morning sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting geometric shadows over the polished floor.
"Before we begin practicals," he said, his voice clear and authoritative, "You must understand the foundation of this world's magical system. Whether you end up a mage, knight, scholar, or noble, knowing the workings of mana is essential."
I straightened slightly in my seat, fingers loosely laced on the desk. I had a general idea from the novel, but hearing it firsthand was different.
"There are four fundamental elemental attributes: fire, wind, water, and earth," Leonhart began, raising four fingers as he spoke. "These are the most common. Most people are born with an affinity for one-sometimes two, though that's rare..."
I glanced around. Most students nodded with practiced familiarity. So far, nothing new.
"In addition to the four," he continued, "there are two rare elements: light and dark. These are uncommon and often considered unstable. Only a few in every generation are born with these affinities. Those with light magic are seen as virtuous and often claimed as saints, while those with dark magic tend to tread a murkier path-sometimes labeled demons."
The classroom murmured with interest.
Theories or not, I remembered from the novel that some characters did wield light or dark magic, though it was always shrouded in secrecy.
"Now then-magical affinity refers to your natural resonance with one or more elements," Leonhart said, drawing a glowing circle in the air with a flick of his finger. It hovered before him, pulsing softly with color. "This resonance determines which element responds best to your mana. Affinity is usually tested at a young age, and your academy file should already list yours."
So I had water affinity. That much I already knew. But how detailed was the file? Would it mention my recent changes?
"Now, how do you use magic?" he asked, clasping his hands behind his back. "There are two main methods. The first is through one's own body, by shaping mana and invoking spells. This takes skill and strong affinity. The second-and more common for beginners-is the use of magical instruments."
He pulled a rod-like object from the drawer behind him.
"These instruments are embedded with magic stones-minerals imbued with elemental properties. When a user channels mana into the instrument, the stone reacts, allowing even non-magic users to perform basic elemental techniques."
I blinked. Magic stones? That hadn't been explained in the novel. Maybe just mentioned once or twice in passing.
"Of course, the strength and type of stone determine the outcome, Higher-quality stones are reserved for military or noble use. Most civilians use artificial ones with limited power."
So even someone without high affinity could light a candle or chill a drink if they had the right stone? That explained how commoners managed.
Leonhart's tone shifted slightly-more formal now.
"However, mages are a special case. They are born with the ability to wield multiple affinities. These individuals can manipulate different elements without the need for multiple stones. They are rare, powerful, and closely monitored by the kingdom."
Right. One of the male leads in the novel was a great mage who possessed all four basic affinities. Technically, he could blow up the academy tower just for fun. Lovely.
"There is one more thing worth noting today," Leonhart said, scanning the room. "Some of you may have heard of the Phoenix's flame."
A soft hush fell over the class.
"It is not a magical affinity, but rather a divine blessing-a mark of the gods. The one chosen by the Phoenix is destined to inherit the throne. It is fire-based, yes, but vastly more potent and temperamental,"
I didn't even need to look. I could feel the subtle shift as eyes flicked toward Aurelian.
He hadn't received the flame yet-but everyone knew he was a prime candidate. Royal blood and all.
Though his eyes were only set on me.
'Come on, Aurelian. You don't need to hold such a big grudge over such a small mistake', I thought, sweat-dropping inwardly.
Leonhart continued, "Now, onto mana and aura. Mana is the energy generated by your body-it fuels all magical acts. However, when focused through physical intent, such as during combat, mana converts into aura. Aura enhances physical strength, resilience, and speed. That is why knights train to manipulate aura."
So, aura was converted mana. That explained why the male lead who was a Duke didn't have magic powers, but was instead a powerful swordsman.
Leonhart folded his arms. "That's all for today's theory. Tomorrow, we'll go deeper into these concepts. Until then, review your affinity notes and familiarise yourself with your issued unstruments. The next class will be held outdoors with Professor Strong."
With a flick of his hand, the glowing circle vanished.
So this concluded my first ever class in this world.
I rushed outside with quick steps before Aurelian could approach me.
But... would I be able to avoid him for the rest of the day?