Earthling in Uncharted Dimensions

"The surprise is normal for someone seeing Judge Stone in action for the first time.

This stone is called a Judge Stone and it can detect a person's affinity and the magnitude of that affinity."

Hugo spoke as he pointed at the stone slab and continued-

"What it just projected was your affinity. You have a Stone affinity and its value is one. That means though you have the affinity, it is very weak. The most basic.

And I believe that it is the same reason why your community rejected you. Elves are known for their affinity with Wind and Nature. Anything other is considered as a stain on their pride."

The word 'Affinity' and the projection triggered the unlocking of another set of memories in his head. Luckily, there was no trouble in comprehending the memory.

After a second, Jonathan could recite the names of all of the affinities on the planet!

But he kept quiet and stared at Hugo for more explanation.

And finding the hazel pupils staring at him, the lieutenant felt the need to elaborate a bit more.

"The affinity is an attribute that enables the bearer to connect themselves to the element and utilise it for his/her advantage. The value you saw along with the affinity type denotes the strength of your bond with the element."

Concluding his words, the trio withdrew back to the office upstairs. The lieutenant had a certain sensation of happiness emitting from his face.

"Now that we have found out your affinity, you can join the kingdom's school for learning deeply about your affinity."

Jonathan's mind had been yearning to ask a question and he found a slot to ask-

"What about your affinity, lieutenant?"

The answer came a second later.

"I have Water affinity, but the value is zero. That means though you have an affinity, you have zero connection with the element. Yet, those with zero value in affinity exhibit a slight increase in physical abilities than people with no affinity.

Squad leader Aleria is also a person with zero value and her element is Ice. She could maintain her calmness better than ordinary people."

Hearing this, Jonathanshyly asked his next question with the worry of offending the lieutenant.

"Then why didn't you increase your affinity value? Isn't it possible?"

The query invoked a burst of laughter and Aleria smiled at Jonathan's lack of knowledge.

"The affinity value is not something that could be increased just like that. It is independent of all physical and mental training.

Yes, it is possible to increase the affinity value. But the conditions are severe and the chances are slim."

Hugo wanted to continue, but he refrained from popping the bubble.

"Don't ask too many questions. I won't reveal anything more. If I disclose everything now, you would lose your interest in learning things. So you can learn and satisfy your curiosity from the kingdom's academy.

And you are very lucky. The leave days of the academy would end in about a month. I will send an application in your name. Until then, you will live with Aleria and must stay out of the sight of the townsfolk.

When they summon you, I'll let you know."

Hugo took out a piece of paper from the draw and wrote down Jonathan's details. Other than his name, race, affinity and approximate age, there was nothing left to write.

"I'll add an appropriate story regarding your origin. Since this would not be known to the public, you'll be safe.

You may go now."

Aleria nodded and stood up and Jonathan followed her lead. As they walked to the door, Hugo said-

"Miss Aleria, teach him a few unarmed combat moves. It might help him to build up a good physique.

And Jonathan, try to feel the presence of the element. There is nothing wrong in attempting to sense your affinity inside you and around you."

Hugo's words were acknowledged with a nod and the duo disappeared from his sight. The lieutenant then leaned back on his chair and thought of a story to fill in the paper.

***

The squad leader and Jonathan came back home and an aroma assaulted their noses. They subconsciously swallowed their saliva and sniffed their way towards the food on the table.

"Go wash before touching the dish."

Aleria's mother spoke from the kitchen as she could hear the footsteps approaching the dining table. She poked her head through the door to see both staring at the steamy food on the table.

Sensing her mother's gaze, Aleria went to her room and came back wearing a casual dress. Jonathan walked back to the table after going to wash his hands, face and feet.

Without any delay, the lunch commenced!

***

The twin stars in the sky had begun their descend. The birds outside the houses, on the trees, were singing their melody and communicated without a break.

Aleria was sitting on her chair in her room. In her hand was her sword she used since joining the military. It was a beautiful mercenary sword she had brought for a hefty price.

Placing the sword on the table, she stood up and walked out of the room. Her eyes fell on the couch on which Jonathan slept like a child.

Aleria's mother was sitting on a chair at the dining table. She was busy doing something productive. When Aleria walked out of the room, her mother raised her eyes and saw her daughter surveying Jonathan.

Aleria turned and walked to her mother. She asked in a hushed voice-

"Mom, do you remember the dummy sword that I used to practice with?"

"I think I used it as firewood a month ago."

Mother was chill when she replied casually. Aleria frowned at her mother in discontent with her actions.

But what done was done. Aleria thought about teaching Jonathan a few sword moves. But she ended up agreeing with the lieutenant's instructions.

After a moment's contemplation, she asked again-

"Mom, where have you kept my old practice dummy?"

Mother's reply was quick.

"It hasn't moved from the backyard."

Remembering Hugo's words, she could not risk exposing the identity of Jonathan. Therefore, she could only teach him moves from inside the house.