"As I said, you’re truly promising."
"Hold this rod firmly in your hand and release your spiritual energy," he instructed calmly.
"The wheel is spinning!" Ikku exclaimed.
"Nothing’s happening for me..." she said, visibly perplexed.
"That’s right. Spiritual energy, also known as Prana, is divided into three categories: positive, negative, and neutral. You can only belong to one category, and from there, you can develop a unique power called a Brand."
"Professor, what’s the difference between these categories?"
"Good question. These categories form the foundation of creating your Brand. Let me explain in detail."
"The positive category influences and modifies something that already exists. For example, you can change your size, become faster, or even transform your Prana into flames. For you, Kenny, and you, Ikku, the wheel spun clockwise, meaning you belong to this category."
"The negative category, on the other hand, doesn’t modify but rather controls or manipulates something that already exists. It could be an element, a person, an animal, or even objects. To belong to this category, the wheel would have spun counterclockwise. However, none of you fall into this category."
"Finally, the neutral category can materialize something entirely from your own energy. The fact that the wheel didn’t move for either of you indicates that you belong to this category."
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"I’ve explained the basics of Brands, but to create a true one, there’s a fundamental principle you must understand."
"What is it, Professor?"
"It’s called the 3C principle: constraint, condition, and consequence. These are the pillars upon which a Brand is built. Any power you create must include a constraint, in other words, a limit. For example, imagine you want to create a Brand that increases your speed. You would need to define a restriction, such as not being able to exceed the speed of sound."
"Why add a limit? Doesn’t that make the power weaker?"
"No. A constraint doesn’t weaken your power; it enhances its efficiency. By setting limits, you focus your spiritual energy on a specific goal. That focus is what strengthens your Brand."
"Next comes the condition. This is the rule that activates your power. For example, for a speed-enhancing Brand, the condition might be that you have to say the Brand’s name out loud."
"What if we don’t want a condition?" she asked hesitantly.
"It’s possible. But without a condition, your Brand is often weaker. A condition acts as a catalyst to focus your energy. Without it, your efforts are diluted."
"Finally, there’s the consequence. This isn’t mandatory, but it’s what separates an ordinary Brand from an exceptional one. A consequence occurs if you break a constraint or condition. For instance, if you exceed the speed limit or forget to say your Brand’s name, you might temporarily lose access to your power."
"Exactly. The more demanding your 3Cs, the more powerful your Brand becomes."
"So… basically, the more risks we take, the stronger we get?"
"It’s not about taking risks, it’s about discipline. If you take unnecessary risks, you’ll fail. But if you’re disciplined and precise, your Brand will become a formidable weapon. Remember: a Brand isn’t just a display of strength. It’s an extension of who you are and what you want to achieve."
"Can you show us an example, Master Zeno?"
"With you, Professor?"
"Rest up until then. The training grounds are open if you want to practice more. You’re free to come anytime."
"Meet here next Tuesday at 9 a.m. sharp. Don’t be late."