As I stepped into the majestic building labeled "Library," I was instantly enveloped by the intoxicating aroma of aged paper and leather. Towering columns of books stretched from floor to ceiling, each time whispering tales of knowledge and adventure. In the heart of the expansive room stood an elderly lady, her silver hair cascading down her back like a waterfall of wisdom. Her wise eyes sparkled with warmth as I approached her, my curiosity bubbling over. "Where can I find the historical books?" I inquired, my voice resonating with eagerness. With a gentle smile, she directed me, "All historical texts can be found in the third section, midway back, up to about book 2000." Grateful for her guidance, I made my way through the labyrinth of shelves.
With anticipation mounting, I discovered the alcove dedicated to historical literature, a treasure trove of knowledge just waiting to be explored. I dove into the depths of history, eagerly absorbing the intricacies of this world, beginning with its fascinating technology. I learned that this realm thrived in an era akin to the late 18th century, enhanced by an enigmatic essence known as mana—a mysterious force that underpinned the fabric of this society. My thirst for understanding was far from quenched, so I resolved to delve deeper into this subject once I finished my history readings.
Next, I turned my attention to the myriad inhabitants populating this world. I uncovered that the first group comprised humanoid races: the resilient Humans, the ethereal Elves, and the industrious Dwarves. The second group captivated my imagination with mythical beings: majestic Dragons, cunning Demons, and benevolent Angels. I also encountered semi-humanoids like the agile Beastfolk, alongside a menagerie of non-humanoid creatures, including fearsome monsters lurking in the shadows.
Continuing my quest for knowledge, I explored the geography of the vast planet, learning that it was named Isorropia—a land approximately two times the size of Earth. With fascination, I studied its six continents, each with its unique characteristics:
-Number of Continents 6
-Peluso 108.2 million Kilometers^2
-Themosa 107.46 million Kilometers^2
-Vara 88.5 million Kilometers^2
-Gola 78.385 million Kilometers^2
-Ramob 49.4 million Kilometers^2
-Sol 47.455 million Kilometers^2
-Number of Oceans 4
-Solen 162.7 million kilometers^2
-Isorro 135.15 million kilometers^2
-Ranth 123.75 million kilometers^2
-Emoso 119 million kilometers^2
I found myself on the vibrant continent of Vara, nestled within the Normandy Empire—one of the mightiest realms reigning over this vast land. Dominating the southern coast with a sprawling area of 16.4 million Kilometers², Normandy was characterized by its coastal capital city, Caledon. This bustling metropolis, with its rich cultures, lay adjacent to the imposing Pavae Mountain Range. Caledon thrummed with life, its population of approximately 1.1 million people dotted throughout its bustling streets. The city's economy flourished on agriculture and maritime trade, yet, despite its vibrancy, whispers of corruption and crime weaved through the political books, revealing the shadows that lingered beneath its surface.
Fueled by my curiosity, I then turned to examine the economy of the continent. I discovered that the currency utilized by the Normandy Empire was known as Thal and Ran. It was structured intriguingly: For 1 Thal was equivalent to a USD Pennie while 1 Ran started at 100 USD.
"Page of coin values with names"
Thal
1 Thal = $0.01 Syroso
5 Thal = $0.05 Klan
10 Thal = $0.10 Cerian
25 Thal = $0.25 Dofel
50 Thal = $0.50 Lenpria
100 Thal = $1.00 Gunie
200 Thal = $2.00 Mropa
500 Thal = $5.00 Udtas
1000 Thal = $10.00 Woas
2000 Thal = $20.00 Mefo
5000 Thal = $50.00 Fihram
Ran
1 Ran = $100 Pyx
2 Ran = $200 Riyal
5 Ran = $500 Mutuo
10 Ran = $1,000 Plymul
20 Ran = $2,000 Thruen
50 Ran= $5,000 Criel
100 Ran = $10,000 Henia
200 Ran = $20,000 Nadak
500 Ran = $50,000 Enoul
1000 Ran = $100,000 Mon
After finishing reading I approached the elderly lady again, longing to uncover the location of the magic section. With her gentle guidance, I found my way there and immersed myself in the arcane texts that awaited. Suddenly, a system notification pierced through my concentration: [Skill Intermediate Reading increased from level 9 to 10]. The announcement continued: [System Notification: Skill evolution Intermediate Reading to Advanced Reading Level 1]. Following this, the system chimed: [Reading Speed increased from 100% to 200%, Reading Comprehension increased from 100% to 200%].
Now, with enhanced reading abilities surging through me, I returned to the magical tomes. My eyes swept across the pages like a hawk, allowing me to visualize instructions with uncanny clarity. Emboldened, I opted to experiment with the magical techniques described within the texts, first stepping outside to ensure safety. I located a quiet, secluded alleyway, where the rough stone pavement felt cool beneath me as I settled down.
Drawing a deep breath, I began expanding my will outward, sensing the ambient mana particles dancing through the air. After a few moments of concentration, I perceived a colorless substance wrapping around me—this must be mana. With intention, I directed my willpower to draw the mana from the atmosphere into my heart. Unlike the manual's rigid instructions, I chose to trust the instincts the system provided, believing this would yield greater efficiency. I carefully inhaled the mana, allowing it to fill my lungs before guiding it along newly formed mana pathways, the initial discomfort a small price to pay for such nascent power. Once the pathways solidified, I circulated the mana through my heart, brain, and dantian.
*Quick Author's note: In this enigmatic world, individuals typically select one pathway: "The Mage" to harness the mind, "The Swordsman" to empower the heart, or "The Archer" to fill the dantian. However, Our MC decides to pick all three.*
As I completed the circulation cycle, another system notification interrupted my thoughts: [You have unlocked the stat Mana]. [You have learned the skills: Mana Understanding Level 1, Mana Brain Level 1, Mana Heart Level 1, Mana Dantian Level 1, and Mana Circulation Level 1]. A rush of realization swept over me, opening up a world of magical possibilities. But just as my excitement mounted, the system interjected, stating that
Your Stat Mana provides you with the ability to wield magic. Each skill influences your magical prowess as follows:
-Mana Understanding Level 1: Grants a 1% discount on casting costs.
-Mana Brain Level 1: Increases casting speed by 1%.
-Mana Heart Level 1: Boosts your mana power by 1%.
-Mana Dantian Level 1: Extends your mana range by 1%.
-Mana Circulation Level 1: Enhances your mana recovery speed by 1%.
With this newfound knowledge, I prepared to delve deeper into the mysteries of this new world.