Arin sat on the edge of the bed, staring at Ray with wide eyes burning with curiosity.
"Ray… explain it to me… what is magic in this world? Are there different types?"
Ray smiled faintly, a smile burdened with knowledge.
"Magic… is the force that flows through this world. It is rooted in nature itself and in the essence of all things. Everything here is connected to energy, but not all beings can use it in the same way."
She sighed and began to explain slowly.
"There are several primary types of magic—fundamental ones:
Earth Magic:
It represents solidity and stability. Its users can move rocks, shape small mountains, and summon stone as shields or weapons. It requires patience and inner strength, for the earth does not grant its power to those with weak spirits.
Fire Magic:
An impulsive force, erupting from within like an unquenchable flame. Fire burns and destroys, but it also purifies and gives birth to life from ash. Controlling fire is difficult for those who lack focus and discipline.
Water Magic:
Flexibility and flow—a power that can calm or overwhelm. Those who control water can shape it into rushing torrents or gentle mist, and even control its temperature. Water is like the mind: adaptive, but capable of drowning its wielder if misunderstood.
Wind Magic:
Fast and light, impossible to grasp easily. Wind grants speed and freedom, capable of moving or scattering anything in its path. To control it, one must understand the harmony between motion and stillness—or it will slip away like a mirage."
"These are the fundamental elements," she continued, "but they are not everything. There are other forms of magic—mysterious ones that go beyond common perception. Some are tied to life energy, others to realms yet undiscovered."
She looked at him sharply.
"But an ordinary person can usually wield only one, at most two types of magic. No more."
Arin raised his eyebrows.
"And… there are people who aren't ordinary, right?"
She paused, then answered in a low, steady voice.
"Yes. There are those who do not follow natural rules. They can wield multiple types of magic, sometimes even combining elements in ways most cannot comprehend. But they are extremely rare."
Arin pressed on.
"How do they know what kind of magic they have? Are they born with it, or do they acquire it?"
Ray smiled faintly and looked away for a moment.
"Everyone is born with inner energy, but it usually lies dormant until something awakens it—hardship, danger, or a trial that shakes the soul. As for identifying one's element… each leaves a mark on the personality."
She listed them calmly.
"Patience and calmness often lead to earth.
Burning emotion, to fire.
Adaptability, to water.
Freedom and restlessness, to wind."
"But those who are unnatural rarely follow these rules. They must feel their power before they can understand it."
Outside the cabin — the forest that devours sound
The two stepped outside. The air was cold, unmoving.
The Silent Forest lived up to its name—no birds, no insects, not even the wind.
"This place… frightens me," Arin whispered.
"Fear is natural," Ray replied flatly. "But if you wish to survive, you must learn how to make fear your ally."
She stood before him.
"Arin… close your eyes."
He obeyed nervously.
"Feel what lies within you. Every being has a core of energy. For some, it sleeps forever. For others… something awakens that changes everything."
"Does magic awaken easily in ordinary humans?" he asked softly.
"No," she said sharply. "It requires a trigger—a fracture in the soul, or a force greater than you pulling it out."
"Do you think… I might have something like that?"
Ray studied him, as if looking beyond his skin.
"I don't know," she whispered. "But your presence in the Silent Forest alone means you are not as ordinary as you believe."
The beginning of doubt… and an omen of danger
She stepped back.
"That's enough for now. Do not push your energy further. Forcing what you don't understand can turn against you."
Arin's head throbbed lightly.
"Ray… do you think there are people who are born with power that doesn't belong to them?"
Her gaze sharpened instantly.
"Do not ask such questions."
"Why?"
"Because such power attracts things that should never notice your existence—especially in a place like this."
She leaned closer.
"Until you understand yourself… keep silent."
She gestured toward the forest.
"Here, false knowledge is worse than ignorance."
Finally, she spoke more gently.
"We'll begin your training step by step. You'll learn to understand your power, protect yourself, and walk this world without being swallowed by it."
She met his eyes.
"But the path… will not be easy, Arin."