The initial setup is fairly common and follows what could probably be referred to as the "Harry Potter" premise. The story centers on Vayne, an unusually strong novice alchemist who has no idea about his past or how he became so powerful. Vayne's power is eventually discovered by an instructor at the Al-Revis Academy and he is quickly accepted to the school. His interactions with students and instructors, as well as the school structure, are what give Mana Khemia its unique twist.