Return Through Magic

Chapter 7: Understanding the Elements of Magic

Chapter 6: Understanding the Elements of Magic

"Does this mean I can use magic now? I can use spatial magic, right? Right?" Yuki's excitement was palpable, but it was abruptly interrupted by a flick to her forehead.

"Ow!" Yuki winced at the sting of Aira's action.

"Stop acting like a child," Aira grumbled.

"Sorry," Yuki apologized, adjusting her posture.

"Alright. You can sense the magic energy within your body now, right? But that doesn't mean you can use magic just yet. First, read the book I gave you. It explains why you can sense the magic energy but can't use it yet." Aira pointed to the book lying beside Yuki.

"Okay." Yuki obeyed, opening the book to the first page.

"There are four types of magical elements: fire, water, air, and earth." Yuki read aloud softly.

Her forehead creased with concentration. Yuki was now certain that the world she had found herself in was a fantasy realm, much like those she had read about in fantasy novels.

"Are you confused?" Aira asked with a condescending smile.

"Yes, I don't understand it at all."

In truth, Yuki had a fair grasp of what she had read, but she pretended not to understand to avoid revealing that she came from a different world, not one of magic.

"Alright, I'll explain it. So listen carefully, Yuki."

Yuki nodded, ready to absorb Aira's explanation about the elements of magic.

"There are four basic elements in magic: fire, water, air, and earth. Each element has unique characteristics and uses in this magical world. Let's start with the fire element," Aira began patiently.

"Fire is most often associated with destructive power and pure energy. Mages who master the fire element can create and control fire in various forms, from small flames to large explosions. However, fire can also be used for subtler purposes, such as heating objects or even healing wounds with controlled heat."

Yuki nodded, beginning to understand the complexities of the fire element.

"Next is the water element. Water is highly flexible and adaptive. Water mages can control the flow of water, create ice, or even manipulate mist and steam. This element is often used in healing due to its calming and purifying nature. But in more offensive forms, water can be a deadly weapon, like ice spears or tsunami waves."

Yuki's enthusiasm grew. Aira's detailed explanation helped her see the potential of each element.

"Air is a very swift and unpredictable element. Air mages can control the wind, create storms, or even alter the air pressure around them. This element is often used for mobility and speed, like flying or moving at high speeds. However, air also has strong defensive capabilities, such as creating invisible wind shields."

Yuki imagined herself controlling the wind and soaring through the sky.

"Lastly, there's the earth element. Earth is the most stable and strong element. Earth mages can control rocks, soil, and plants. This element is often used for defense, such as creating stone walls or reinforcing the body with earth layers. However, the earth element can also be highly offensive, like causing earthquakes or manipulating plants to attack."

Yuki was fascinated by the explanation. Each element had its own strengths and weaknesses, all sounding incredibly intriguing.

"Do you understand now?" Aira asked.

"Yes, I understand. But how do we know which element suits us best?" Yuki asked, her curiosity piqued.

"That's a good question. Each person usually has an affinity for a particular element, depending on their personality and magical energy. You can discover your affinity through practice and meditation, or with special tools that detect the strongest element within you."

Yuki nodded, relieved that there was a way to determine her best element.

"But remember, even if you have an affinity for one element, it doesn't mean you can't learn the others. Many mages master more than one element, though they usually excel in their primary affinity," Aira added.

"So, what's the next step?" Yuki asked, eager to continue learning.

"The next step is to go to the adventurer's guild. There, you'll register as a mage, and they'll help you determine which magic suits you best and how much magical energy you have. Each person has a different amount of magical energy," Aira explained firmly.

"So I can't use magic yet?" Yuki was disappointed for the second time.

"There's a process, Yuki. Mastering magic doesn't happen instantly. Once you know which element suits you best, we'll start training in the basics of that element. Don't worry, with consistent practice, you'll be able to master magic."

“Can you tell which element suits me? You’re very skilled in magic, so I’m sure you can easily figure out which element is right for me,” Yuki asked, hoping for Aira's further assistance.

Yuki expected Aira to help her this time, but she was wrong. Aira immediately rejected Yuki's request.

"No! I don’t want to deal with the hassle.” Aira's expression was firm.

"Can you really not help me? We promised to help each other," Yuki persisted.

"Sorry, Yuki. Unfortunately, I can't do that. And even if I could, it would violate human regulations. Humans aren’t allowed to check their abilities independently because it’s considered illegal. People who want to know others’ strengths and record them as if human mages' powers belong to the kingdom. So it's better if you go to the usual place where humans measure their strength.” Aira refused outright.

"Alright." Yuki was slightly disappointed but knew she couldn't force Aira, who had firmly rejected her multiple times.

"But Aira? Why did you say 'humans'? Aren't you also a human?"

Yuki's question startled Aira momentarily. Yuki noticed the surprised expression on Aira's face, although it quickly changed to a calm demeanor, as if nothing was wrong.

"I... I mean, of course, I'm human," Aira replied quickly, her voice slightly trembling. "It's just that I'm used to referring to it that way because I've trained in a different place for a long time."

Yuki looked at Aira suspiciously but decided not to press further.

"Alright then. So when are we going to the adventurer's guild?" Yuki tried to change the subject.

"We can go tomorrow morning. For now, let's find a nearby village and get you a place to rest. Reading this book is also important for your preparation," Aira said, shifting her attention to the book in Yuki's hands.

"I'll read it thoroughly. Thank you, Aira. You always help me," Yuki said sincerely.

Aira just nodded with a faint smile. "Of course, we have to help each other. Rest now."

Yuki nodded and started reading the book more seriously, trying to understand every detail about the magical elements. In her mind, she was determined to become a great mage and make the most of everything she learned in this magical world.