September 21, 2025—ten years to the day since the Cataclysm reshaped the world. Neo-Seoul's skyline glittered under a crisp autumn sun, a deceptive veil over the undercurrents of mana-fueled tension. Min-jun Park, now 17, adjusted his crisp high school uniform as he stepped through the gates of Haneul Academy, a sprawling campus where mana education blended with traditional studies. As a freshman resuming after a year of homeschooling—time spent helping his father stabilize the family after their losses—Min-jun carried an air of quiet confidence. Cool-headed and thoughtful, he analyzed every situation like a chessboard, his sharp mind always three steps ahead. Yet, beneath that calm exterior, the dual nature of his heart simmered, a secret weapon forged in trauma.
By his side bounced Ji-hoon Kim, his best friend since childhood. Ji-hoon was a whirlwind of energy, much like the legendary Asta from those old anime tales—loud, unyieldingly determined, and always charging headfirst into challenges with a grin that could light up a Rift Zone. But unlike the mana-less underdog, Ji-hoon was sharp as a blade, his intellect rivaling Min-jun's in strategy games and debates. "Yo, Min-jun! First day as freshmen, and we're gonna own this place!" Ji-hoon exclaimed, pumping his fist, his voice echoing across the courtyard. His mana affinity—bursts of kinetic energy that let him dash at blinding speeds—mirrored his personality, always propelling him forward. "Bet I can lap the track before you even blink. Race ya to class?"
Min-jun chuckled softly, his handsome features—high cheekbones, piercing dark eyes, and a subtle smile—drawing subtle glances from passersby. "Save your energy, Ji-hoon. We've got orientations to survive first." Thoughtful as ever, he scanned the crowd, noting the mix of students: some casually sparking minor mana tricks like floating pencils or illusionary sparks, others hiding their powers under the academy's strict "no combat displays" rule. Haneul wasn't just a school; it was a breeding ground for future SDF recruits, where mana aptitude tests could fast-track you to glory—or mark you as a target for cartels.
The first day unfolded like a breath of normalcy in their chaotic world. In homeroom, the teacher, a stern woman with wind manipulation scars on her arms, had everyone introduce themselves. "Share your name, a hobby, and your mana affinity if you're comfortable," she said, her voice carrying the weight of a former SDF Squad Vice Captain.
Ji-hoon went first, leaping to his feet with dramatic flair. "Ji-hoon Kim! I love street racing—on foot, with my speed bursts—and I'm gonna be the top SDF Commander one day! My mana's all about kinetic blasts; I can punch through walls if I rev up enough!" The class erupted in laughter and applause, his infectious energy breaking the ice.
Min-jun followed, standing with poised grace. "Min-jun Park. I enjoy reading strategy books and tinkering with tech. My affinity... shadows, mostly for utility." He kept it vague, his cool demeanor masking the Black Heart's depths. No need to reveal how he could switch to godlike power at will, or the insanity he danced with each time.
As the introductions flowed, the room buzzed with chatter. Students swapped stories of the Cataclysm's aftermath—how their families adapted, the wars they barely remembered as kids. A group of sophomores demonstrated harmless mana pranks, like conjuring illusory butterflies that dissolved into sparkles. Laughter filled the air, a rare slice of fun in a world scarred by gore and greed.
But Min-jun noticed the eyes on him. A cluster of girls whispered nearby, their glances lingering. "He's so calm and handsome," one murmured, a petite girl with fire-affinity braids. "Like a prince from those manhwa stories." Another, with soft illusion powers, giggled. "And smart too—did you see how he answered that pop quiz on mana circulation? I'd totally ask him to study." Min-jun caught snippets, his thoughtful nature analyzing it as harmless curiosity, but it stirred a faint warmth. Romance wasn't on his radar—not with siblings to protect and a father drowning in work—but it felt... human.
Then came the transfer student. "Aiko Tanaka," she introduced herself, her voice steady with a hint of Japanese accent. Green eyes sparkled under raven hair, her wind powers subtly rustling papers as she spoke. "From Tokyo, here for exchange. Hobbies: martial arts and stargazing. Affinity: wind manipulation." She took the seat next to Min-jun, offering a small smile. "Looks like we're neighbors."
Ji-hoon leaned over, whispering loudly, "Dude, she's got that mysterious vibe! Bet she's SDF material. You two would make a killer team—calm strategist and windy warrior!"
Min-jun nodded politely, his mind already piecing together her story. Why transfer now? Neo-Seoul wasn't safe for outsiders, not with cartel whispers. But the day rolled on with group activities: mana compatibility games where pairs synced powers for simple tasks, like lifting objects or creating barriers. Min-jun and Ji-hoon crushed it, his shadows weaving with Ji-hoon's bursts for seamless combos. Aiko joined a demo, her winds elegantly redirecting attacks, earning admiring nods—including from the girls eyeing Min-jun.
By lunch, the courtyard hummed with new friendships. Ji-hoon scarfed down kimbap, challenging everyone to arm-wrestling matches. "Come on, Min-jun! Show 'em your shadow tricks!" But Min-jun demurred, thoughtful eyes on the horizon. The fun was a mask; he felt the pull of his heart, the Black one whispering of dangers ahead.
As classes ended, Min-jun walked Ji-hoon out, the energetic friend rambling about club sign-ups. "Archery with mana arrows? Sign me up! You in?" Min-jun smiled. "Maybe. Got to check on Ji-yeon and Dong-woo first."
But as they parted, a shadow loomed—literally. In the alley near home, the attack from Chapter 1 unfolded, pulling Min-jun back into the storm. The first day of fun was over; the Black Heart awaited.