Jack's eyes slowly fluttered open, and he found himself lying on a cold, rocky surface. As his senses returned, he realized he was on a mountain peak, surrounded by vast, snow-capped ranges that stretched as far as the eye could see. The sky above was a deep blue, with the sun casting long shadows across the land. The air was crisp and cold, biting at his skin.
As Jack sat up, trying to make sense of his surroundings, a sudden flash of light appeared in front of him. Startled, he scrambled backward, almost losing his footing on the uneven terrain. The light quickly formed into a translucent, blue screen, hovering in mid-air. On the screen, words began to form, and a calm, soothing voice spoke.
MYTH:
Hi, my name is Myth. I am your guide and assistant on your journey.
Jack stared at the screen in disbelief, his mind struggling to process what he was seeing. It was as if he had stepped into a video game or a simulation. After a moment, he found his voice.
JACK:
Hi... Myth?
The screen flashed as the voice continued.
MYTH:
Yes! I will provide you guidance on your journey. Feel free to ask me anything you would like to know about.
Jack shook his head, still trying to wrap his mind around the situation. Everything felt surreal, like he was trapped in a strange dream. But after everything he had been through, perhaps nothing should surprise him anymore.
JACK:
Can you... tell me about this world?
The screen flickered, and Myth's voice began to explain.
MYTH:
Certainly. This world has a unique power system with three main categories. The first is Spell Bounding, a technique where you cast spells to summon elements such as fire, lightning, or wind. Spell Bounding operates in three acts: spell casting, summoning the element, and performing an attack. It's similar to coding in your world.
Jack nodded slowly, trying to grasp the concept.
MYTH:
The second category is Martial Arts, where individuals train their bodies and minds to achieve extraordinary physical feats. The third is Magic Weapons. By killing magical monsters, you can obtain magical essence. By combining this essence with different materials using special techniques, you can create magical weapons and tools. These are particularly effective for those who master Martial Arts.
As Myth finished the explanation, the screen shifted, displaying a simple, yet elegant presentation of the three power systems.
MYTH:
Would you like to know about your powers?
Jack's heart skipped a beat. He hadn't even considered the possibility of having powers in this strange new world.
JACK:
What... my powers? Yes, show me.
The screen flickered again, and Myth continued.
MYTH:
In this world, people can summon elements according to the strength and nature of their souls. The more powerful and capable a soul, the more potent the element it can summon.
Jack leaned forward, excitement building in his chest.
JACK:
Tell me about my powers!
The screen flashed brightly, as if sensing Jack's anticipation.
MYTH:
You have been granted two abilities: the White Flames of Eternity and the Assassination Skill.
Jack's eyes widened in surprise.
JACK:
White Flames of Eternity? Assassination Skill? Sounds... good.
MYTH:
Indeed. The White Flames of Eternity are the strongest form of flames, capable of both cursing and blessing. They can poison and cure anyone. Their heat is unimaginably intense. The Assassination Skill is based on all known killing techniques, making you a master of stealth and lethal precision.
Jack felt a surge of pride and power at Myth's words, but it was quickly tempered by the voice's next statement.
MYTH:
However, you cannot use these techniques yet.
Jack's excitement was abruptly deflated.
JACK:
Why not?
The screen dimmed slightly, as Myth's tone took on a more instructional quality.
MYTH:
These techniques are currently locked. In order to unlock them, you must first learn the basics of both Martial Arts and Spell Bounding. Mastery of these fundamental skills will allow you to harness your true potential.
Jack frowned, feeling a mix of determination and frustration.
JACK:
And how am I supposed to learn these basics?
MYTH:
You must find a mentor. Someone who can teach you the ways of this world and guide you in your training.
Jack stood up, brushing the dirt off his clothes. The path ahead was clear, even if it was daunting. He had been given a second chance—or perhaps a third or fourth. This world, with its magic and mysteries, held the key to his reunion with Hana. He would find this mentor, learn the skills he needed, and seek out the Wish Dragon. No matter the cost, he would make his wish come true.
JACK:
Alright, Myth. Let's find this mentor.
The blue screen flickered once more, before displaying a small map of the surrounding area.
MYTH:
Your journey begins now, Jack. I'll be with you every step of the way.
With a deep breath, Jack set off down the mountain, the weight of his past still heavy on his shoulders, but a newfound resolve driving him forward. The path would be long and dangerous, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.