Hypothesis

Mana

The term "mana" referred to a mysterious force, a form of supernatural energy that existed in the world but remained unfamiliar to most modern humans. It was this mana that individuals harnessed to cast spells, create protective barriers, or enhance their physical abilities beyond the limits of ordinary humans.

As mana began to permeate the human world, it evolved and triggered a phenomenon known as "awakening" in certain individuals. These awakened humans were categorized into different ranks: E, D, C, B, A, and S, representing varying levels of power. While S-rank awakeners were the rarest and possessed immense strength, not all S-ranks had equal power.

Even the weakest among the awakened, the E-ranks, stood far above ordinary humans, creating a noticeable gap between the two groups. Some awakened individuals chose to lead normal lives, but the majority became hunters.

Hunters were classified into combat and non-combat roles, falling into six distinct categories: mage-type, range-type, tanker-type, fighter-type, healer-type, and assassin-type. With their ability to slay magical beasts and close dimensional gates, hunters became indispensable in the world, leading to the growth of a multi-billion dollar global industry centered around their services.

After Agent Adam's departure, Sasuke's attention shifted to his research on mana and magical energy. Scrolls depicting various techniques were scattered around him as he sat in meditation, deep in thought.

(Sasuke's POV)

Magical powers.

When I first witnessed mana spreading through the air and saturating the environment, I initially mistook it for natural energy. However, I soon realized my error upon absorbing a small amount. Mana and natural energy shared a common trait: if properly controlled, they could strengthen the body and increase endurance. Yet, mana proved easier for me to manipulate than natural energy.

The question that plagued me was how people absorbed magical energy. There was no clear explanation of the techniques employed or the process by which individuals could harness magical energy for themselves. The only certainty was that those who experienced awakening could utilize this mystical power. But even among the awakened, their abilities could not be continually enhanced with each awakening. Re-awakening was necessary to further unlock their potential, though such cases were rare.

Observing how magical energy flowed within a hunter's body, I noticed a pattern. The awakened channeled their magical energy into their hearts and then distributed it to eight specific points throughout their bodies.

This led me to a hypothesis.

"Hachimon Tonkō" - the Eight Gates.

However, opening the eighth gate was a clear path to self-destruction. Should I dare to close my eyes and conduct a small experiment?

Curiosity and the desire for strength enticed me.

Numerous enemies lay in wait, and I couldn't rely on miracles like the Sage of the Six Paths granting me a seal once more.

"Huh..."

I focused on my meditation, adopting a stance reminiscent of a sage. I directed my concentration towards absorbing magical energy into the first gate, known as the Gate of Opening.

SHUU*

Magic infiltrated the gate situated in the left hemisphere of my brain.

Initially, it pricked my mind like the sting of a tiny needle. Yet, like a catalyst, chakra stabilized and accelerated its flow.

I continued to meditate, drawing in magical energy until evening enveloped the world.

...

(General POV)

"It took until afternoon to fully charge. Should I attempt to open it?" Sasuke contemplated, still in his meditative state.

"Whatever the outcome, I must take the risk."

Sasuke concentrated his focus and made an attempt to open the Gate of Opening.

'Kai!'

RELEASE*

FWUSSS*

"It's working. I had anticipated the clash between magical energy and chakra, but they seem to coexist peacefully."

Opening the Gate of Opening, situated in the left hemisphere of the brain, resulted in increased strength and agility. Users could even perform the Front Lotus technique, as demonstrated by Rock Lee during the Chunin Exams.

With magical energy absorbed into the first gate, the effects surpassed expectations.

However, excitement quickly turned to shock.

"Huh!?" Sasuke's eyes widened as an abnormal occurrence took place.

He found himself unable to close the first gate again.

"Could it be that the gate passively absorbs magical energy due to my absorption during its closure?" A new theory concerning the Eight Gates technique formed in Sasuke's mind.

"I cannot close it, it appears to be permanent."

Nonetheless, there were no adverse effects such as fatigue.

"I mustn't rush. The risks of opening the gate while absorbing magical energy remain unclear. Yet, just by opening one gate, my body experiences a remarkable improvement."

CLENCH*

Sasuke clenched his fists, feeling the surge of pure strength coursing through him. It was a whole new level.

"Let's hope nothing untoward occurs."

Doubt still lingered within Sasuke.

...

A day passed.

"It remains permanently open."

Sasuke awoke, still lying on his bed. He sensed the gate still absorbing magical energy, albeit at a diminished rate.

"Perhaps it's nearing its limit."

Sasuke accepted this fact, recognizing that the gate had opened a new path for him to grow stronger.

A/N:

I've attempted to incorporate the Eight Gates in this manner. What are your thoughts?

Please share your comments so I can further enhance my story~