Ethan and Yassmin were in Ethan's office, an elegant and minimalist space with glass walls offering a panoramic view of the city. The atmosphere was calm, though laden with an underlying tension as Ethan prepared to resolve his doubts.
"Since I've fulfilled my part of the deal, I expect you to fulfill yours. I have some questions I'd like you to answer," Ethan began, looking Yassmin directly in the eyes.
"Of course, ask whatever you need to know," Yassmin replied, reclining slightly in her seat and crossing her long legs, ready to offer him all the necessary information.
Ethan couldn't help but look at her, remembering the previous night. He hadn't realized it at the time, and at some point, he had lost control and simply succumbed to his carnal impulses. Upon reflecting on this, he understood that it was one of the consequences of merging with a being like a demon. Even now, he was tempted to repeat what had happened before, but being aware of this made it easier for him to control himself. Trying to remain calm, Ethan continued as if nothing was happening.
"To start with, I want to know what that ability you used before our fight was," Ethan said.
Yassmin smiled slightly, as if she had been expecting that question.
"The Veil of Discretion is advanced magic that hides those within it from any external observation. It not only isolates but also distorts any attempt at magical or technological perception. This is something that is constantly used to prevent ordinary people from discovering the truth," she explained.
Ethan nodded, absorbing the information. Then, he moved on to his next question.
"And why is that? Wouldn't it be convenient for everyone to know about the existence of magic?"
"It's not. At least not for people with great power; this was something agreed upon and imposed on others by those people. If suddenly everyone gained abilities, it would be impossible for them to control everyone," Yassmin replied.
Ethan reflected on these words for a moment and continued with his questions.
"Speaking of people with great power... I need to know how the power distribution works."
"Good question," Yassmin said, adopting a more serious tone. "To start with, you need to know that alternate worlds are classified into different levels, depending on their magical wealth and resources. The higher levels are the most coveted and, naturally, the most difficult to control."
Yassmin took a sip of her coffee before continuing.
"Currently, humanity knows of three level-S worlds, which are under the control of the United States, China, and Russia. These worlds are extremely rich in magic and resources, providing a significant advantage to those countries. Still, they are more powerful than Earth, so even those three powers have only been able to establish a temporary base and have barely been able to discover things about those worlds."
Ethan frowned, trying to visualize the situation.
"Then there are the level-A worlds, which are quite powerful but not as much as the level-S ones. In addition to the previously mentioned countries, there are also several European countries that have a level-A world, as well as Japan, Korea, Canada, Australia, and even several sheikhs and some other semi-powers have one under their control. Egypt and Kenya are the only African countries with access to a level-A world," Yassmin continued.
"And what about the level-B worlds?" Ethan asked, intrigued.
"Level-B worlds are the most basic seen so far, not much different from how Earth was during the Middle Ages, but of course, they possess magic. Almost everyone who has a level-A world also has a level-B one, in addition to several emerging powers or very rich individuals, and some more underdeveloped countries that can't afford a higher-ranking world. South Africa has one, for example, and Brazil, which is the only South American country with a world of this level."
Ethan took a mental note of this distribution. The information was crucial to understanding the dynamics of power in the magical world.
"There are many things I don't know about magic and its common use," Ethan admitted. "Could you give me an overview of the basic knowledge I should have?"
Yassmin nodded, pleased by his interest.
"Sure. First, you need to understand the different types of magic and their applications. There's elemental magic, healing magic, summoning magic, necromancy, transformation magic, among others. Each has its own methods and requirements depending on the world of origin. Then there's the social structure of wizards, which varies from place to place. In some countries, wizards form guilds; in others, they work more independently or under government control."
Ethan listened intently, feeling that each word was a crucial piece in the puzzle of his new reality.
"You also need to learn about magical artifacts and how to use them. Some can amplify your abilities, while others offer protection against magical attacks. And, of course, there's magical politics. Alliances and rivalries between wizards and organizations can be as complex as mundane politics, if not more so."
"I understand," Ethan said. "There's a lot to learn."
Yassmin watched him with interest, shifting the focus of the conversation.
"Ethan, I want you to consider something," she said, leaning towards him. "I would like you to become my subordinate while I rise to power in Egypt. I promise to provide you with all the resources necessary to grow as a necromancer."
Ethan looked at her, pondering her proposal. He knew that working with Yassmin would offer him power and a stable position in the magical world, but he had his own plans.
"I appreciate your offer, Yassmin, but I have several plans for myself. I can't commit to being your right hand," he replied firmly.
Yassmin was not discouraged. In fact, she seemed to have anticipated his refusal.
"In that case, I have another proposal. Let's get married. If you join me in this way, once I obtain power in Egypt, you'll have the right to use the level-A world as you wish, as well as have me, of course," she said, leaning a little more sensually.
Ethan was silent, surprised by the audacity of the proposal. He knew that having access to a level-A world could change everything for him. The temptation was enormous.