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Chapter 11 - Prologue: A World Unveiled

Six years ago, the world changed forever.

What began as a scientific curiosity quickly transformed into a global phenomenon known as "the Gate." These mysterious rifts appeared without warning, unleashing an extraordinary force that would forever alter humanity's fate. As people around the world began to awaken strange powers, scholars quickly realized that the magic emerging from the Gates came in many forms. In those first chaotic years, six primary types of magic—fire, water, earth, ice, shadow, and lightning—became known, with whispers of even more hidden branches yet to emerge.

But not everyone awakened these magical abilities. In response to the growing uncertainty, governments worldwide established academies to train the newly awakened alongside those without magic who were skilled in combat. Together, they would form a united front against the unknown threats lurking within the Gates.

To categorize these powers, scientists developed devices to measure an individual's mana—the raw energy that fuels magic. This led to the establishment of a ranking system, where mages were categorized from E, the weakest, to S, the rarest and most powerful. Only a handful had achieved the elusive S rank in the years since the Gates opened, each one becoming a figure of legend.

For those who lacked magic, a different path awaited. They became warriors, mastering the art of combat, weapons, and strategy. Though they might not wield magic, their skills were invaluable in the fight to protect humanity. Thus, seven prestigious academies emerged, each dedicated to honing the abilities of mages and warriors alike.

As these academies trained students, scientists and government officials worked tirelessly to unravel the mysteries of the monsters that emerged from the Gates. Survivors recounted chilling tales of creatures—goblins, orcs, demons, and more—that threatened to wreak havoc on civilization. The variety and ferocity of these beings made it clear that humanity needed an organized force to combat the growing danger.

In response, powerful individuals formed 5 guilds to safeguard civilians and undertake missions to eliminate any monsters before they could escape the Gates. Under the guidance of the Hunter Association, these guilds became the backbone of humanity's defense, each with its own leadership and missions.

At the heart of the Hunter Association was President Dorian Ashford, who oversaw the guilds' operations, ensuring they remained aligned with the mission to protect humanity. Yet these guilds didn't fight solely for glory; they also sought treasures found within the Gates—mysterious crystals imbued with potent energy. These crystals, ranging from bronze to the rarest gold, became coveted resources, further fueling the demand for skilled hunters and mages.

Now, humanity's defenses rest in the hands of skilled guilds and a powerful organization, the Hunter Association. Each guild works to safeguard the world by clearing the Gates before monsters can emerge. But the Gates are unpredictable, and no one knows when—or where—the next portal will open.

Now, six years later, a new generation stands on the brink of this strange new world. For those like me, the time has come to embark on a journey of discovery. The power within me stirs, a whisper of something greater waiting to be unleashed. With a sense of determination and purpose, I prepare to face the challenges ahead—both within the Gates and in a world forever changed.

This is only the beginning. The path ahead will be challenging, but I'm ready. Whatever secrets the Gates hold, whatever power they unlock within me, I'll face it all.

And perhaps, in time, I will uncover the truth behind the Gates and the secrets they hold.