The more Mizuki explained the more Sora understood. He was quick to absorb everything that she had to teach. He was like the parched ground absorbing away a single drop of water at a time. Sora nodded – he sort of understood it…but… “What are spirits and transient mana?”

“This is a question that even I cannot answer completely. What I tell you now is completely based on my understanding.” Mizuki put out a disclaimer.

Sora nodded in acceptance – anything is better than nothing.

“If I had to say what are spirits and mana, I would not be able to tell you….there is no one definition to it. Spirits, Transient and Malice together form what most perceive as mana. Spiritual energy is the degree to which one has command over spirits. Spirits in turn manipulate the transient mana as per your requirement. Transient mana is the fuel for all magic. Out of the three components of mana – it is the most abundant. It is like the air that surrounds us – it has no physical manifestation in this world. It is bountiful and infinite. However you must remember, without spirits it is impossible to use the Transient.”

Mizuki shifted her yukata a bit and then comfortably seated herself in the cushion – it would seem as though the discussion had come to an end. “That is all there is..”

“Wait! You said something about Malice! You didn’t explain that!” Sora was completely engrossed in Mizuki’s explanation.

“Did I mention malice?”

Sora nodded – seeing a skeleton nod is quite funny.

“The last component of mana and one which no one understands is malice. It is not coincidence that it has been given the name malice. Malice cannot be used by anyone – it is often known as the soul or mind of mana itself. In many eras, now long forgotten, people believed that mana is a living creature with its own thought and awareness. There is no certain and safe way to harness malice. It acts on its own. There is only one rule with regards to malice, once it has agreed to share its power with you then it will continue to do so. It works of its own accord. The undead borrow the power of malice to sustain themselves. How else do you think you live without food and water? Never tire, never feel the need to rest. The darkness in the corner of your heart and that subtle change in your personality for the worse…if that is not malice then what is it?”

“I am being sustained on malice?” Sora was stunned.

“Most certainly. There are strict laws in this world and regardless whether you are an adventurer or a resident you are governed by these laws.”

Sora sat still and quiet. There was a lot of information that Mizuki had provided him. He still needed to process it all.

Mizuki intently watched Sora with a satisfied smile, right now – she had won over him.

***

“Sora would you be so kind enough now to take the test?” Mizuki asked - she was certain that Sora would not refuse her now. Did he have any reason to do so?

As expected, Sora nodded. “What do I do?”

“To measure spiritual energy, you will need to concentrate. Think of it like expanding your awareness. Focus on all the mana surrounding you. Then push the transient mana through you and into the orb. The feeling of mana coursing through you is something that you must be familiar with now.” She was referring to the time Sora cast spells.

“Misteress Mizuki, you are wasting your breath, there is no way possible ….” Just then Kuro shut up.

The ball in Sora’s hand began glowing golden in colour. At first, it was a dim glow however the next second the orb began dazzling. It exploded into a multitude of colours. Once the dazzling show settled, the shimmering light from the orb took shape of three Saturn like revolving rings, with Sora acting as the center.

The Mokana’s quietly stared in astonishment – this level of power was at least three-circles strong. At the very least a qualification to be placed on the 10thfloor of the dungeon – the Mokanas were truly stunned – how could they have possibly been wrong in judging Sora’s strength?

“Mistress…something is not right here…when we had him he wasn’t this strong.” Kuro defended his position. Though it wasn’t something to worry about, as per the orb Sora was only three circles strong – based on the number of rings.

Mizuki only laughed. “It is not your fault Kuro. Spiritual awareness is something that cannot be detected easily. At best Blacnhe and you can test for his life force not spiritual awareness. This device is a specialist. It captures measures his cumulative strength – both life force and spiritual. Do not worry, I am not upset with you – your mistake has brought great fortune to my feet.“

“Three circles?” Blanche asked – what was so good about a monster which can only release three circles of mana?

“Three circles strong even after the restraints I placed on him." Mizuki corrected Blanche. "How truly terrifying.”

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Author's Note:

1. T_T I am so scared. Will readers punish me or love me. Nonetheless, thank you for reading.