Magic is fundamentally the art of harnessing and manipulating the forces of nature.

  For 13,000 years, since the first human genius discovered the secrets of nature, the application of magic has become increasingly common. Scholars have meticulously dissected its essence, categorizing the various forces of nature into distinct elements.

  At its core, magic is built upon seven primary elements: water, fire, earth, wind, lightning, darkness, and light. These are recognized as the foundational elements of magic. However, beyond these basics, the nature of all things encompasses more than just these seven; through the fusion of basic elements, new forms of magic can emerge.

  For instance, when water and wind combine, they create ice. Similarly, melding water with earth yields wood or swamp elements, while earth and fire give birth to lava. It is said that a complete mastery of these seven elements could lead to the elusive "chaos element," a force of immense power.

  In the long history of magic, only the original genius is said to have successfully wielded time magic to defeat a formidable invasion from the north—a tale that many now regard as mere legend. The potential for merging the seven magical elements remains a topic of intense debate among contemporary scholars.

  Among these elements, water, fire, earth, and wind are considered the foundation upon which novice magicians must build their skills. A primary magician is required to master five basic magic characters, one of which is dedicated to deconstructing these four elements. The more complex elements—space, darkness, and light—pose greater challenges and are typically reserved for advanced practitioners.

  During his three months of captivity, Martin diligently experimented with magic. He successfully mastered 18 magic characters, bringing his total to 23. However, nine characters remain elusive, all tied to the more complex elements of space, darkness, and light. The intricacies of these elements are such that even understanding their basic principles requires a level of expertise reserved for high-level mages.

  Only advanced mages can manipulate the space magic matrix or create enchanted items like space rings. However, Martin is convinced that unlocking the potential within a space ring doesn't necessarily require advanced mastery—he believes he can decipher its secrets.

  If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

  "The restrictions on a space ring are akin to an electronic lock," Martin mused to himself. "To unlock it, I need to bypass a complex magic matrix, much like breaking into a computer system. If brute force is applied, the system will collapse, and the ring will be destroyed."

  Drawing on his background as a peak hacker, Martin set out to understand the workings of the space ring he possessed. However, he quickly discovered that this was no simple task.

  The following day, as he emerged from his room, he felt a deep sense of frustration. The space ring's security was designed around a complex spatial matrix, containing many magic characters that he had yet to master. Cracking this recognition system felt impossible—like trying to breach a bank's security with only a basic understanding of programming.

  "It seems I need to master those remaining nine magic characters before I can break the space ring," Martin concluded with a sigh.

  In the courtyard, Debbie was practicing with her giant sword. Noticing Martin's glum demeanor, she approached him with concern. "Hammer, what's wrong?"

  "I didn't sleep well last night," Martin admitted, heading to the well to splash some cold water on his face. Once refreshed, he turned to Debbie with a smile. "What do you want for breakfast?"

  "I'm fine with porridge. You should rest today," she advised, her eyes scanning his face for any signs of distress.

  "I'm okay; I just need to gather my thoughts," he replied, stepping into the kitchen. "While I’m cooking, I have a plan."

  "What's that?" Debbie asked, her curiosity piqued.

  "I'm heading to the Magic Guild. My wand was destroyed by Busca, so I need to get a new one," Martin explained.

  "Oh, I’ll come with you!" she exclaimed, eager to join him. Over the past few days, she had grown fond of Martin, and she wanted to ensure he didn't disappear again.

  As Martin began preparing breakfast, an idea struck him. "Oh, and we should stop by Kara’s magic bookstore. I need to pick up a few books."

  Debbie's expression shifted to one of concern. "Books? What kind?"

  "Magical texts on enchantment," he replied casually.

  "Enchantments?" Her eyes widened. Memories of the last time they had visited a bookstore flooded back—when Martin had spent nine gold coins in one go. "Are you sure you want to study that?"

  "I have to," Martin responded. "I need to understand how to enchant items."

  "But enchantment is incredibly difficult," she cautioned.

  "How hard can it be?" he replied, shrugging nonchalantly.

  After three months of captivity, he'd mastered 18 magic characters and crafted a set of armor that had helped him survive. Surely, tackling enchantment was within his grasp.

  As he continued to prepare breakfast, Martin felt a renewed sense of determination. The challenges ahead were daunting, but he was ready to face them.