Chapter 2: Etria
Newt, now a five-year-old with a burgeoning understanding of his surroundings, found himself immersed in a realm teeming with diverse inhabitants. Etria, a world of awe and wonder, hosted four distinct types of individuals, each possessing remarkable abilities that defined their existence.
Firstly, the formidable Martial Artists, capable of wielding strength so profound that mountains crumbled beneath the force of a single punch.
Next, the Magicians, masters of arcane arts capable of casting spells and manipulating the very fabric of reality.
Then, the Cultivators, a rarity in the population, hailed as the epitome of evolution. Only one in ten thousand individuals could claim the title of a Cultivator, bestowed with the ability to fly, wield magic, and effortlessly lay waste to mountains.
Lastly, the mysterious Monsters, a diverse group including those who practiced dark magic and arts, as well as beasts that had attained human-like prowess through magic and cultivation.
In Etrian mythology, an diverse group known as demons exists, shrouded in mystery and elusive to human perception. Their appearance remains unseen, and their essence defies explanation.
Existing solely within the realms of myth, demons in Etria defy comprehension, eluding any attempts to depict or define them.
Legends and tales weave intricate narratives around these elusive entities, painting them as formidable and otherworldly beings. Despite the absence of concrete evidence, the presence of demons pervades Etria, instilling a sense of awe and fear in those who dare to contemplate their existence.
Newt's lineage wove a unique tapestry in this multifaceted world. Born to a mother skilled in the arcane arts and a father boasting prowess as a Martial Artist, he stood at the crossroads of magical heritage and physical strength.
"I have no talent for magic, it seems," Newt whispered to himself, a twinge of disappointment coloring his thoughts. "But still, I have good connections."
The Salamander Family, synonymous with prestige, presided over a vast empire of businesses in the Aura Ridge of the Northern Continent. Their annual income neared a staggering 1 million Gold Coins, placing them among the elite of Aura Ridge. "Can you imagine that?" Newt mused, contemplating the opulence that awaited him.
Yet, beneath the veneer of privilege, Newt harbored a profound discontent. His lack of magical prowess weighed on him, despite the comforts of his life. Yet, in his musings, a silver lining emerged — the knowledge from his previous life on Earth.
"That woman," Newt muttered, his voice tinged with bitterness. "That fucking bitch." Memories of a formidable adversary haunted him. She wasn't just an opponent. She was a skilled spy, powerful and cunning. Even the Neverlink, designed to counter such threats, had failed him in that encounter.
"In this world, Martial artists are ranked by Rank 10 to Rank 1," Newt explained to himself, trying to make sense of the hierarchies. "Magicians are also ranked by Rank 10 to Rank 1." His father, a formidable Rank 4 Martial Artist, showcased strength and resilience, while his mother, a formidable Rank 8 Magician, wielded the arcane with finesse.
"I still have my grandfather," Newt continued, his voice steadying. "He's a Rank 3 Martial Artist, and our family holds sway over hundreds of businesses here in Aura Ridge." The Salamander Family's vast business empire ensured their continued prominence in Aura Ridge.
In the opulent Salamander Estate, the care of young Newt fell upon the shoulders of his parents, Jake and Sienna Salamander. The air of luxury permeated their abode, a dwelling that surpassed even the grandeur of a mansion. With a staff of 40 maids, 50 bodyguards, 10 cleaners, and 5 gardeners, the Salamander residence was a testament to affluence.
"Newt, come here. It's mealtime," Sienna called out, prompting Jake to excuse himself from the room.
The hall, adorned with opulent furnishings, became the setting for the family's gathering. Jake, with an air of enthusiasm, declared, "Tomorrow is your birthday. You can ask for whatever you want."
Sienna chimed in, "New toys, places to visit—anything you desire, we can make it happen."
Concern etched their faces as they contemplated their son's peculiar behavior. From cursing at maids for soiling his shoes at the tender age of two to inducing near-freezing temperatures in a playmate who dared cross him, Newt's reactions to trivial matters weighed heavily on their minds.
After thoughtful consideration, Newt responded, "A storage bag, or even a ring, would be good."
Jake, mid-bite, halted in astonishment. "How do you know about something like that?" he queried, intrigued by the unexpected request.
"Don't you wear it every day and use your aura to access the things inside it?" Newt replied matter-of-factly, finding his father's question peculiar.
Sienna exchanged a glance with Jake, silently questioning the revelation. Jake shrugged, signaling his perplexity.
Clearing his throat, Jake redirected the conversation. "Newt, have you ever thought about joining a martial arts academy and learning martial arts?"
"Nope, they don't have anything worth it inside the academy, and as for martial arts, I can learn it myself. What's the need for people to teach me?" Newt's response held an air of objective certainty.
Sienna intervened, suggesting, "You will make connections there. It would also help you if, one day, you have to manage our businesses."
"Hm, you're right, I suppose," Newt admitted with a hint of skepticism.
Changing the subject, Newt inquired, "So, Mom and Dad, tell me, what do you want for your birthdays this year?"
With a hearty laugh, Jake replied, "You still have a long way to go, son, before you can fulfill our wishes."
Sienna nodded in agreement, while Newt nonchalantly shrugged. Despite being born into the illustrious Salamander family, Newt couldn't shake the feeling that his parents, who appeared youthful, were nowhere near his own age of around 70 from his previous life. Grateful for their role in giving him a second chance at life, he felt a sense of responsibility, but little else.
Retreating to his room after dinner, Newt paused before his mirror. Blue eyes and silver hair adorned his youthful form, yet his demeanor exuded a subtle charm that hinted at the maturity from a life long-lived.
Gifts
-- Gift
received Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone