Chapter 2: Tutorial: The Grind Starts
One moment I was in the void, and the next I could feel all my senses returning.
The feeling of the soft bedsheets, the sound of little birds singing outside. Every sensation just fell into its proper place, but most importantly.
You have slept in a bed.
HP and MP have regenerated to 100%.
Fuck, yes. Not a dream, then. If I could see my smile, I bet it would split my face in half. Time to get up, and to figure out exactly where I am, and when.
As I get up, I find myself in a half-decent apartment. There's obviously the bed, with a small wardrobe to the side, a little table to eat my meals, (thank fuck it isn't one of those where you need to sit on the floor.) and I can see a small kitchen, refrigerator, and two doors, one I assume goes outside and the other to the bathroom.
''Now, this. This is the life right here.'' Doesn't look like much, but it beats living with my parents any day of the week, really. Talking about that, do I have some sort of backstory here, or did I just get magically dropped?
Right now it's the 1st of March 2012. Just at the start of vacation.
So... That gives me at most around a month before canon starts, more or less.
Not like I remember a lot, though. Mostly the first season: Issei gets killed and reincarnated into Rias' peerage. Asia arrives, the whole thing with the abandoned church, and then the reveal of the Boosted Gear. And isn't that funny? The fact that at least thirteen weapons in existence have 'Can kill a god, by the way' in the description. Sounds hilarious till you have to fight one of them.
And that is thinking I didn't get thrown into some sort of AU, really.
I'll think about that later. So, the rating game for Rias' marriage happens next, and... Yeah, I pretty much blank there until Kokabiel decides to attack Kuoh. I know most of the important characters, but I don't know where to put them in the timeline.
What should I do now, then?
Tutorial Quest received!
Getting started!
Objective:
Check The System out by saying '[Menu]'
Check out every basic function of the Menu.
Reward: Gift box, [?] Skill.
Right, right. The menu, and you give me gifts and a free skill, too? Aw, you spoil me.
Do it often, please. ''[Menu].''
[Stats]
[Skills]
[Quests]
[Perks/Curses]
''Stats first. Let me see what I'm working with.''
Name: Zatren Fumigami.
Race: Human/Mermaid.
Job: Locked.
Title: None.
HP: [-100%-]
MP: [-100%-]
Stats:
STR: (F)
DEX: (F)
CON: (F+)
MAG: (F+)
SPI: (F-) [Locked]
LCK: (E-)
Looking good, me. I think I understand everything, but can I get a quick rundown of the stats just to be sure?
*Strength: It's your capability of exerting your body either to lift weight or deal physical damage. It's also partly responsible for your HP stat.
*Dexterity: Represents your ability to perform fast or difficult bodily actions, quick thinking, and perception.
*Constitution: Represents your ability to tank damage and your overall health and stamina.
It's mostly responsible for your HP stat.
*Magic: Represents your ability to cast spells. The control you possess over them and the damage that they inflict.
It's also responsible for MP stat and regeneration.
*Spirit: Represents your ability to use esoteric abilities. These include not only powerful skills like divination, but also soul-related techniques.
*Luck: This stat represents your overall chance of good things happening. It's also present in [?] [?] [?].
Well, that last description isn't ominous at all, huh?
Putting that aside, they're mostly what I expected. Except for SPI, I thought it was just for Ki-based abilities like Touki or Senjutsu. I think you need to meditate to actually unlock those. Either that or destroy your body to the ground for Touki.
''Still, why are Magic and Constitution slightly higher? And what's up with Luck?''
Your base stats started at F for being human, but due to your second race's stronger resilience and magic, you got a slight boon.
''Cool, cool. What about Luck?''
...
''Alright then. Keep your secrets, see how I care.''
Guess I'll have to find answers my way then. Let's check the rest of the Menu.
''Let's check out [Skills].''
Skill List.
[Gamer's Body] Lv MAX.
[Electrokinesis] Lv 1.
[Fertility Magic] Lv 1.
[Starch Generation] Lv MAX.
Typical Gamer's Body, very nice. No Gamer's Mind, though? Hmm... I can guess it has to do with all the 'cold, unfeeling killing machine' thingy?
Yes... and because it's funnier.
'Course it is. Sigh.
I'm still ticked off about 'Starch Generation'. Like, seriously, I could have, I don't know… freaking time stop or something. You feel me? Get me some golden clothes and go kill somebody's granddad. Sigh, not all of them can be winners, next.
Quests:
Tutorial Quest: Getting Started! 1/3.
Oh, so it's a three-part tutorial? That's fine. More rewards for me, Hehe~
Perks/Curses.
Perks:
[Water Affinity] (Major).
Water Magic comes naturally to you; you have good control and have an easier time creating skills.
[Sound Affinity] (Minor).
You have an easier time understanding the basics of Sound Magic. Control? Not so much.
[Healing Affinity] (Minor).
You have an easier time understanding the basics of Healing Magic. Try not to bleed to death while trying.
[Enhanced Body] (Minor).
Your body is slightly better than some regular humans. Faster recovery for less resting time.
[Enhanced Senses] (Minor).
Your senses are slightly better than a regular human.
[Look at me, I'm a fish].
You have the ability to breathe underwater.
[Feeling Thirsty?].
You can recover stamina by drinking water. Cleaner water gives better recovery.
[Like a Fish in a Pond].
While your body is totally submerged underwater, your injuries, energy, and magic regenerate faster.
[Pass Me the Mic].
No matter what you are singing. Be it a sad, dark, or happy song. Everyone else finds it beautiful and mesmerizing in their own way.
[Only Rags get Old].
Contrary to popular belief, your species can live a longtime. No matter how old you actually are or have left to live, you will always look your prime age. This also slightly enhances your looks.
I may or may not have snorted at the last one. My mother said that a lot.
Curses:
[Shallow Bitch].
You like gifts, money, and trinkets, and you like them a lot. You don't mind doing things to get them. People have an easier time convincing you to do what they want by offering material objects or things you want.
First of all, Rude. Second, I can't even be mad at my heritage for this. As a human, I was already a bit shallow and liked free things, but is it really a gift if I have to do something for it? All that 'give things without expecting a reward' or something.
Quest Completed!
Getting Started! 1/3.
Rewards:
[Gift box].
Skill: [Observe].
[Observe] Lv1 (0%)
Lets you observe living things and objects.
''Ah, yes. The bread and butter of a gamer. Truly, a Gamer System moment.''
I look at the bed I was recently in, and I cast [Observe] on it.
Bed.
It's a bed.
''Excuse me, what?''
Okay. Maybe not the best example, should I try it on a living being?
I was thinking of going outside until I caught a glimpse of something on a high corner. A small house spider, not bigger than the tip of my finger.
''That one should work. [Observe].''
Spider.
It's a spider.
Chuckles.
''I'm gonna' burn this fucker to the ground.''
So, the neat thing is, [Observe] may not be a total bust.
I say 'may' because I half-remember a manga where the ability started just as useless, but upgraded with levels. Something about a spider? Whatever. The bad news is...
[Observe] Lv 4 (43%)
Lets you observe living things and objects.
Yeah... It's going to take a long ass time.
And I was running out of MP, so I cooked some lunch, and the fridge was full, so that was cool. I got a new skill too!
[Cooking] Lv 9 (36%)
You know how to cook simple meals.
I may have gone a bit overboard and cooked the food for the whole week. Sue me, I like to see the numbers go up.
Anyways! As I was saying. Once I recovered a bit, had lunch, and drank some truly five-Michelin-starred glass of water. We get here.
Some sparks are flying around my fingers. Some last for a bit and then sputter around; others last a bit longer.
''Man, grinding sucks.''
Yeah, I'm leveling Electrokinesis to gain some sort of control and a way to attack. The reason?
Tutorial Quest.
Getting Started! (2/3).
Objective:
Create an offensive spell of any kind.
Reward:
[2 levels on the respective Skill, [? Skill, [? Skill].
So, I've noticed that the higher the skill level, the more experience it needs to get to the next level. I could have created an attack a bit ago, but I wanted those minuscule gains, you know?
[Electrokinesis] has leveled up!
''There we go, now...''
I focus for a bit, point my fingers in front of me, and with a sigh, a more intense current of electricity runs through them.
Well, that's basically it. A taser, but with my hands.
[Electrokinesis] has leveled up!
Quest Completed!
Getting Started 2/3.
Rewards:
[Electrokinesis] has leveled up!
[Electrokinesis] has leveled up!
Skill: [Create Dungeon].
Skill: [Exit Dungeon].
I was going to ask if I'm supposed to go beat people up to farm more levels or something. After all, practice only gets you so far.
Let's see...
[Electrokinesis] Lv 6 (7%).
The power to create and control electricity.
Nice~
[Create Dungeon].
Allows you to create an instant dungeon with pre-determined enemies.
You can't use this skill while in combat or during an Emergency Quest.
[Exit Dungeon].
Allows you to escape any instant dungeon you create.
You can't use this skill while in combat or during an Emergency Quest.
So, I can't run away by just jumping into a dungeon. That makes sense, I guess.
Something I've noticed is that I didn't get a Perk for electricity affinity or proficiency. Why is that?
Unlike Skills. Non-racial Perks have to be earned either by feats, Quests, or special events.
This really isn't the OP MC fantasy I thought it was going to be, huh? I will get extremely powerful eventually, but it will take time.
Precisely.
Fine by me then. Also, let's check out that gift box from the first quest.
''[Inventory]...?'' A window opened in front of me, covered by small squares. In one of them was my gift box. ''Gimme, gimme. Now.'' I tap my finger in the box and select an emerging option that says 'open'.
¥200.000 added to the Inventory.
Please choose a weapon among the following options:
[Sword].
[Dagger].
[Bow].
[Spear].
Free money is always good.
''A weapon, eh? I do need one if I'm going to go dungeon raiding.'' I don't have any idea how to use a sword or a bow. Even if I could get a skill for it with constant use.
Daggers have too little range, in my opinion. I'm not going for the Sung Jin-Woo assassin build.
A spear it is, then. I read somewhere that it's easier to learn. At least, more than a sword would be. Something, something, 'It takes 10 years to master a sword, but only 1 year to master the spear' type of thing.
Basic Metal Spear granted.
In my hand, an average-looking spear appears. Damn, these things are tall. It has a black wooden shaft with a triangle-shaped metal spearhead. ''[Observe].''
Spear.
It's a metal spear.
[Observe] has leveled up!
Well, that's one more word, isn't it?
Quest Updated.
Getting Started! 3/3.
Objective:
Go into a Dungeon and slay 5 enemies.
Bonus Objectives:
I: Slay 10 enemies.
II: Defeat the Dungeon Boss.
III: Defeat the Dungeon Boss without losing more than 50% HP.
Rewards:
Basic leather armor, [?] Function, [?] Skill.
Bonus Rewards:
I: ¥15.000.
II: ¥50.000, F Gem, [?].
III: [?] Perk, Title: [?, [?].
''You know, I think this system really likes its mystery. Almost every reward is an incognita.'' Sigh. Whelp, there's no time like the present, yeah?
''[Create Dungeon]'' As the words leave my mouth, another window appears.
Choose a Dungeon:
[Zombies].
''Can't go wrong with the classics.'' I tap the only option, and suddenly, I'm in the middle of an abandoned city. Well, apocalyptic would describe it better. Who Oppenheimer-ed this place?
Windows and doors are broken everywhere I see. The street is plastered with blood and what appears to be rotten meat. And, son of a bitch. The smell.
Just like that, my lunch abandons my stomach and splatters all over the street. ''Hugh... Oh god...''
Yeah, on second thought. Not my brightest idea to come to a corpse-ridden city.
After I finish ejecting everything from my stomach. I try to spit the leftover taste out of my mouth.
I would recommend moving.
I perk up at the system's advice and look around. Only to notice what clearly are two half-mangled corpses, slowly walking in my direction. They appear to have come out of a nearby building.
Well, one is walking. The other is basically crawling because it has no legs. Not like the other one is looking too hot. Guts are spilling from its stomach, and its left arm is missing.
Their eyes just look so empty...
I'm just going to stop, lest I puke again.
I try to compose myself. Take a deep breath, and tighten the grip on my spear. ''[Observe].''
Gutless Zombie.
HP: [-78%-].
An undead. It's lacking an arm.
Legless Zombie.
HP: [-50% ]
An undead. Its legs are missing.
Did [Observe] gain a new effect with the last level-up? No, that doesn't matter now. Focus!
As I approach the one that's standing up, I pull my spear back and shove the spear all the way into its torso. Something akin to a cry of pain comes out of its mouth. ''Hurhh...Agrh!''
Gutless Zombie.
HP: [-32% ].
''It's not dead!'' My eyes widen as I panic. ''Of course, it isn't, dumbass! It's a literal walking corpse!''
I try to pull my weapon out in a hurry, but it doesn't even move. Stuck in place by the zombie's ribcage.
''Fuck, fuck, fuck...!'' In desperation, I use my Electrokinesis, pumping at least half my MP bar in the Skill. The moment it activates, the current travels all the way to the spear and into the zombie.
''RAAHGGR!'' The corpse screeches as its flesh is burned to a crisp by the lightning magic. Then, it falls. Actually dead this time. It's rotten flesh, scorched to hell and back, causing a nauseating odor.
''I think I'm going to puke again...''
By a specific action, a new Skill was created!
[Imbue Element] Lv 1 (0%).
You can imbue an element you can control into an object. It's most effective on weapons. The cost depends on the amount of MP pumped through the object.
''Neat...'' I turn towards the still 'alive' zombie crawling towards me, and with a breath to stabilize myself, I shove the spear tip into its head. Killing it swiftly with another burst of lightning. ''That's… better.''
[2/5 enemies killed].
I turn towards the building from which the zombies came. Steeling myself with another deep breath, I walk inside. A deep frown on my features at the reminder of the Quest objectives.
''Let's do this quickly. I want to go home and wash my everything right now.'' I sighed, resigned.
Neat things about this hellhole? There is loot in the houses and buildings. So, that's something, at least. Most were just rotten food and ripped clothes, but I found some good things too.
[Minor Health Potion] x4.
Restores 10% HP.
[Minor Mana Potion] x3.
Restores 10% MP.
Pearl.
Little white pearl.
That's about it, really. I found some things and got a new skill after killing a few more zombies. I'm slowly getting used to the smell of burned flesh, I think.
[Spear Proficiency] Lv 3 (37%)
You have a bit of knowledge on how to use a spear. This skill measures your capabilities with Spear-like weapons and the amount of damage you do while using them.
After I got the skill, I could feel myself correcting my posture while wielding my spear. While that's cool, I would much prefer to test it outside of this place. Fortunately, I was almost done with this.
[9/5 enemies killed].
Electrokinesis also gained a level, and Imbue Element gained 2, sigh.
As soon as I'm finished restoring my MP and done with my current task. I'll find the last one and get out of here. I puked one more time after finding a small bedroom with one of these fuckers feeding on a child's corpse. ''Fucking dammit, this place is nasty.''
My body shivers at the memory of the disgusting creature, hunched over the desecrated body of what appeared to be a child. It was too disfigured to know for sure. ''[Stats].''
HP: [-96%-]
MP: [-78%-]
At the speed it's recovering... Maybe a few more minutes? Yeah, probably.
I got scratched by one of those fuckers. Not pretty to discover that my Gamer's Body doesn't impede blood loss, or limb loss for that matter.
[Gamer's Body] Lv Max.
Your body is like that of a video game character. However, this doesn't impede body part loss. What it does offer is an easy way to regrow said limbs!
Does not prevent status effects of any kind.
Did I get dropped into hard mode without knowing? That's my best guess.
While I rest, I'm trying to gain a skill to protect myself. A typical barrier, you know? The damn fanfics make it seem so easy. I have been trying with this fucker for 30 minutes now!
''Huff...'' I take a deep breath and try again. Feeling my mana took a while, but it was harder to do something with it than to sense it.
''One more time.'' I take hold of my mana and, with a mental grip on what I think is my mana pool, I push outwards. Around me, a light blue and translucent aura envelops my body in the form of a barrier.
By a specific action, a new Skill was created!
[Mana Shield] Lv 1 (0%).
You use your mana to protect your body.
While active, your MP bar acts as your HP bar. Every 1% damage will consume 2% MP. The rate is improved by levels.
''It's better than nothing, I suppose.'' A few minutes later, with my bars now restored. I get up from the blood-stained sofa and get out of the run-down house. I haven't seen more zombies in a while, and it's starting to bother me.
As I take a right turn on the small street I'm in, I come across a more open space. A park of some sort. The sound of teeth munching on flesh and bone hits my ears and draws my attention.
In the middle of what I think it's a park. There is a red and fleshy humanoid; it doesn't have clothes, its skin is red with the appearance of bleeding flesh, and it has long claws that it's using to tear apart a corpse.
It suddenly stills and turns to look at me with empty white pupils, blood-stained teeth, and a deep growl-like sound. ''[Observe].''
Ghoul [Boss].
HP [-100%-]
It's an undead, and it's hungry.
[Observe] has leveled up!
''Man, this game fucking sucks.''
Chapter 3: The Legendary What?
The grip on my spear tightens almost painfully as I behold the disturbing image of the Ghoul. Looking at it feels like those 'uncanny valley' videos. As if the whole being is just wrong.
'No, focus! No time to think, only fight.' With resolution, I point my weapon at it ''[Mana Shie-''
-23% HP.
Huh?
Without even being able to cast my shield, I'm practically blown away as the creature zooms towards me and slashes at me with its claws. The attack tears through the flesh on my left arm, and the impact almost sends me sprawling, my back hitting a solid structure. My arm is bleeding, the crimson liquid dripping off three big gashes, staining the floor.
Debuff: [Bleeding] applied.
While this Debuff is active, you will periodically lose HP.
By enduring a flesh-cutting attack, you got new Skills!
[Bleeding Resistance] Lv 1 (0%)
Makes bleeding out harder. You will lose less HP when bleeding.
[Slash Resistance] Lv 1 (0%)
Reduces the damage taken by cut/slashing attacks.
And then, I feel it—the pain.
''AHHH!'' The scream tore out of my throat, and my eyes widened in absolute fright while fixated on my bleeding arm. Then, a sudden realization hit me like a truck.
This... This isn't a game. I'm not a game character, even if I have The System. This is real, the pain is real, the monster is real, and the possibility of dying is real.
I can die. I'm going to die, I'm going to die, I'm going to die. My arm is bleeding, and it hurts. IT HURTS, ITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTS!
This thing is going to kill me.
''!'' A sudden noise breaks me out of my thoughts. I look up at the source while my body and hands are shaking, these sounds… are coming from the Ghoul?
Its chest is rising and falling strangely, like it's breathing wrong. The noise… was laughter?
I watch the creature licking at the blood on its claws, my blood. Then, a horrifying smile splits its face apart, and the noise becomes louder, it's so... so... Infuriating.
''Son of a bitch...'' It's laughing, it's really laughing. At me? This bastard is laughing at me?
A snarl covers my expression as I pick myself from the floor-Did I fall to my knees while panicking?-grab two healing potions from my inventory, taking the cork off with my mouth, and I pour them over my wound. Almost immediately, I feel the gashes close until they are no more than tiny cuts.
[Bleeding Resistance] has leveled up!
20% HP.
''I'm going to fucking kill you!'' My snarl becomes almost feral, my eyes turning into pinpricks.
'[Mana Shield], [Imbue Element: Electricity]' A glowing blue shield covers my body, and sparks sputter around my weapons as I rush the beast, spear in both hands, aiming for a thrust with my whole body.
Its reaction time is faster, moving slightly off to the side, so my weapon only nicks at the flesh on its torso. Still, the electricity coursing through the metal and into its body makes its muscles tense and immobile for a moment.
Ghoul Boss.
HP: [-96%-]
Not enough, not nearly enough.
Taking advantage of its momentary shock, I tighten the grip on my spear and pull it back slightly. Then, I thrust the spearhead at its arm. Piercing metal meets soft flesh, and the arm of the ghoul is torn off.
''KrrEeckk!'' The monster screeches, causing me to flinch, and then, it goes on the assault. Its fleshy body moves once again, fast, maybe even faster than before. But this time I'm ready. I dodge one overextended strike, and the second one, I block with the handle of my spear.
''Fucking... Disgusting piece of shit!'' I meet eyes with the ghoul, hazel eyes meeting dead white pupils. We are locked in a power struggle, even if it only has one arm, and then, the fucker bites.
-50% MP.
''Damn Bastard!'' Its teeth are locked on the shield covering my form. While I'm not in any pain, the damn Ghoul decided to use my defensive barrier as a chew toy.
-5% MP.
-6% MP.
-4% MP.
I desperately try to pry it off me, and a frustrated shout comes out of my mouth. Yet, this time, there is power behind the sound.
''Goddammit! BACK OFF!'' The shriek coming out of my throat sounds extremely loud, so much so that the monster recoils with a screech. Its eyes and ears are bleeding, as it grabs its head in pain with its remaining clawed hand.
In a moment of desperation, you discovered a Racial Skill!
[Sonic Scream] Lv 1(0%)
Your voice can generate incredibly powerful sound waves, causing vibrations in the air and hurting living beings in the process.
Racial Bonus: This ability doesn't cost MP.
No time to look at the damn screen.
Ghoul Boss.
HP: [-47% ]
Seeing the clear opening, I pump all my remaining MP into my spear, even as I feel my [Mana Shield] shattering around me. I blindly charge at the pained Ghoul. Then, as my spear pierces its torso, I unleash all the electricity in my weapon directly into its flesh. However, once electrified metal pierces flesh, the ghoul snaps out of it.
-18% HP.
-11% HP.
-7% HP.
-5% HP.
Debuff: [Bleeding] applied.
[Slash Resistance] has leveled up!
[Slash Resistance] has leveled up!
[Slash Resistance] has leveled up!
[Bleeding Resistance] has leveled up!
It slashes at my arms, my torso, and my hands. Anywhere it can get its remaining claw into. I clench my teeth, pained grunts coming out of my mouth as I feel the attacks getting weaker. Its body spasms, the bloodied claw cutting less and less flesh on its way, until finally…
Ghoul Boss has been defeated!
Dungeon clearance rewards are sent to the inventory.
[Electrokinesis] has leveled up by 3!
[Imbue Element] has leveled up!
[Spear Proficiency] has leveled up by 4!
[Mana Shield] has leveled up by 2!
Quest Completed!
Getting Started 3/3.
Objective:
Go into the Dungeon and slay 5 enemies.
Bonus Objectives:
I: Slay 10 enemies [x].
II: Defeat the Dungeon Boss [x].
III: Defeat the Dungeon Boss without losing more than 50% HP [x].
All Objectives have been completed!
Rewards:
[Basic Leather Armor]. [Gacha Function]. [Skill Fusion (Skill)].
Bonus Rewards:
[¥65.000]. [F Gem]. [Gacha Token x3]. [Title: Undead Slayer]. [Mana Circuits (Perk)].
I look through my screens, heavy breathing coming out of my mouth. The ghoul lies dead at my feet, its body scorched and smoking, the tip of my spear practically melted on its torso, and the handle chipped and scratched. ''Stats…'' My voice comes out strained, probably by the loud [Sonic Scream].
HP: [-53% ]
MP: [- 1% ]
''Ha.… Haha... Hahaha!'' It starts small, but bit by bit my laughter gets louder until it becomes a full-blown belly laugh.
''Yes! I did it!'' My smile looks like it could split my face in half. I take a look at the ghoul at my feet, the smile transforming into a smirk. ''Get fucked, Kaneki wannabe!''
A pleased sigh escapes me, and I kick the fucked up corpse of my enemy. I can finally get out of here.
''[Exit Dungeon].'' And just like that, I'm back home. By the absence of light entering from the windows, I can guess it's nighttime.
I feel… I don't even know, conflicted? Disgusted? Happy? Sick? Maybe all of the above.
The first thing I decide to do is completely scrub myself clean in the shower of my small bathroom. I think I may have spent half an hour just cleaning the blood from my hair and the smell of rotten and burned flesh from my body.
Once I feel clean enough, I put on some clean clothes and just throw away the bloodied ones. Thankfully, it seems my wardrobe has not only my old clothes but some new ones as well. I put on a black shirt and pants, took some food from what I had cooked this afternoon, and ate silently at the dining table.
''This… This is real. It's my life now, not a game, not an anime, but real life.'' While the setting is definitely DxD, I can't say this is just a really good simulation or a bunch of pixels and code.
I sighed once more. (And wasn't I doing that a lot for a single day?) I'll have to remake my non-existent plans for this world. Should get involved with the devils somehow? Maybe even join a peerage and become a Devil?
I remember the cast being a kind of trusty bunch, not very 'devil-like' even if there were some real assholes out there. Still, how would that even work? Will I be a Reincarnated Devil/Mermaid? Hmm…
Well, it's a good thing you're considering involving yourself with the 'main cast'. Not like you have much of a choice anyway.
''Excuse you?'' My eye twitches in annoyance at the blue screen on my face, interrupting my thoughts.
When putting you into this world, we had to create some sort of backstory. Can't have you just be all incognito, you know?, It would bring a few problems otherwise.
Also, it's funnier this way.
''I'm just going to ignore you said 'we' there,'' I say with a perturbed gaze. I didn't want to think of the possibility of some kind of multiverse god managing Gamer Systems. ''So, what have you written me as? Apart from an orphan that is.'' I ask out of curiosity.
You are going to be a second year in the Kuoh Academy, the same year as this world's 'protagonist'. You were homeschooled your whole life in America until your family moved to Japan. Just you and your parents trying for a better life here, and sending you to an actual school was the first step. Unfortunately, they died in a car accident, but they left you enough money to buy this apartment and all the things in it.
''Okay, so, a tragic backstory then.'' I don't think I can act like I care much. Don't get me wrong, if these people are real, I will lament their deaths, but if they were just made up by The System, there is not much of a point in it.
I did have a question, though. ''If I'm supposed to be American, why do I have such an uncommon first name and a Japanese last name?''
Why not?
''Touché. Well, let's actually look at all those rewards from the dungeon now.'' First, I checked the armor over. It looks pretty basic. (Pun intended.) Still, not like I know anything about armor. ''[Observe].''
[Basic Leather Armor].
Simple protective armor made of leather. It only covers the torso.
Yeah, I would still need more levels before it shows anything useful. Next.
[Skill Fusion] Lv 1 (0%).
Allows you to combine simple skills. At a low level, only up to 2 basic skills can be combined at the same time.
It may yield better or worse results depending on the skills combined.
Now that is more interesting. I'm sure that it will become better once I fuse a few Skills. That brings another problem tho… ''I don't really have anything to combine right now…''
Doesn't matter. I'm sure I can create something like what I did with [Mana Shield].
The next reward is a little purple crystal, barely the size of my fingertip. ''[Observe].''
[(F+) Gem].
Allows to automatically level up a stat to (F+).
The stat has to be at least (F).
Well, I can only really use this on my STR or DEX, since SPI is still locked and in F-.
But, I can raise both of those stats just by training, with my almost endless stamina thanks to my [Feeling Thirsty?] Perk. I'll just play the patient game to use it for when I unlock my spirit stat.
After putting the gem back into my inventory, I decided to look at my new Perk and Title.
[Mana Circuits].
Much like in anime, you now possess small magic circles around vital parts of your body, like your brain or heart. This not only brings better control of mana in general, but your body generates more MP naturally.
MP regeneration and capacity doubled.
I whistle. Now, if that isn't a damn good Perk, I don't know what is. I think my mana pool was a little above average. Yet, with this, I can feel the bucket that is my mana, um… become a bigger bucket?
I don't know, man, I'm not good with analogies.
Title: [Undead Slayer].
You have demonstrated to the undead that you are not to be messed with; the undead will always be wary of your presence with this title equipped. Maybe you should get an anime about it?
When equipped, gain 50% more damage against undead creatures.
Do you wish to equip this title?
Sure, not like I have a better one. It will certainly help if I decide to go back to another undead dungeon.
From defeating the boss, I also got a loot box, which is… uncomfortably fleshy. Inside, there were some more Minor Healing and Mana potions, ¥20.000, and a little ruby. I don't know what I'm gonna do with this. I know I found a pearl in the Dungeon, too.
Maybe I can get a skill to make enchanted items?
''Sucks that I didn't get a weapon.'' Yeah… The spear practically melted off with all that mana I pumped into it, but maybe there is a solution to that.
Finally, the most interesting reward: The Gacha.
Gacha Tutorial:
The Gacha is what the name suggests, only thing is, there are no guaranteed pulls, no pity, nothing like that. You can get items, skills, weapons, perks, Etc. Lots of things, really, all of them from this or different realities. There are also things made by the system; the ratios are as follows: A 40% chance for Common tier, 30% for Uncommon, 20% for Rare, 9% for Epic, and 1% for Legendary.
The rates are subject to change if The System deems it necessary.
You were granted 2 free Gacha Tokens and 3 from Quests. As you can guess, the only way to obtain more is by completing Quests or committing feats.
Do you wish to roll the Gacha?
Hmm, do I? I don't know…
''Of course, I do! Roll them all, baby!''
Rolling 5 pulls…
Rolling Results:
[3 Uncommon Tier].
[1 Rare Tier].
[1 Legendary Tier].
Not a single Common, that's nice. Wait…
''HOLY SHIT, SERIOUSLY?!'' I contained myself to not laugh like a maniac in the middle of the night, don't want to disturb the neighbors, but… This is IT. Even with The System, I'm still in the beginning stages. A legendary item or Skill, even if it starts weak, it's just a total game-changer.
''Okay, show me what I got, then!'' The excitement in my voice is palpable. I feel like a kid who just got a whole week off from school and a new video game!
[2 Uncommon Skills rolled].
[1 Uncommon Item rolled].
[1 Rare Item rolled].
[1 Legendary Weapon rolled].
By performing an incredibly lucky feat, your LCK Stat has advanced from E- to E.
Sweet! Didn't know how to raise Luck, so it's basically by random chance, then?
[Throwing Knife Proficiency] Lv 1 (0%).
You know how to throw a knife. Hitting something? That would be more difficult.
With this Skill, the damage and expertise you have in throwing knives or knife-like objects are augmented.
[Stealth] Lv 1 (0%).
You know how to disappear in a crowd, by consuming MP, your movements and presence are muffled. At higher levels, this will even allow you to turn invisible.
[Raven Coat].
A fancy black coat, adorned with raven feathers on the shoulders. Apart from making you look classy, it's resistant to cuts and tears and provides basic elemental resistance.
[Soul stone].
A magic stone that lets you bind a weaker monster to yourself, turning it into your familiar.
The creature's soul will be bonded to yours, and it shall be eternally loyal to you.
[Legendary Spear (The Rising of the Shield Hero)].
This is the Cardinal Spear of Legend. As in the show, it will start weak and gain strength over time and with use. Once equipped, you will no longer be able to use other weapons. You will gain this weapon-strengthening method-
W̴͕̅h̸̭̀ä̶̬̙́́͊t̵̥̅ ̴̼̀̓͝a̸͍̭͓̾̀̈́r̴̠̙̳͝ȅ̴͔̅̚ ̴͖̈́̚y̶͙̒̀o̷̢̱̔̀ư̷̳͕̌̐ ̷̛̟͂d̵̖̚͝o̵̬͂̓̀į̵̋n̴̦̯̳̓͠g̴̩̰͆?̵̎͗͝
''What… what the hell is happening?'' The Legendary Spear, one I recognize very well, The Shield Hero was one of my favorite shows after all, appears to be floating in the air in my living room.
The form was that of the Small Spear, if I remember correctly, with a white handle, some golden accents, and a simple spearhead with some black designs. In the middle, however, was a decorative part with a blood-red gem in the center.
The most unsettling part wasn't that the System's explanation was cut short, but the additional voice that interrupted it. It sounded… kind of feminine. It was difficult to distinguish, not only because of the almost ethereal sound of the voice, but also the dangerous undertone it carried.
Why is the spear talking? Could it be… The supposed 'spirit' that the Legendary Weapons carry?
''Well… Just looking at it won't solve anything… May as well grab it?'' Nervousness invades me as I take a deep breath. Cautiously, I approach the glowing weapon. Once I am in touching distance, I steel my resolve with a frown and grab it by the handle. It's quite a small spear, actually, not taller than me at least.
Do you wish to change your job to S̸͍̤͛̓̄͝p̶͙̣̩̀e̶̗̕ā̴̛͖͑r̴̪͎̉͆ ̸͕͔̇̕H̸̤͉̎̈́͜͝e̷͔̓̄r̴̜̀̎̈́̕ó̸̡̠̐͝?
O̷n̵c̷e̶ ̸c̷h̸a̴n̸g̵e̸d̵ ̴i̸t̵ ̶c̸a̷n̶n̶o̷t̷ ̷b̴e̵ ̵u̸n̵d̶o̵n̵e̴.̸
The distorted text on the blue screen doesn't fill me with any reassurance. Still, I'm already this far into it, no backing down now. ''Yes.'' I accept with determination.
And then everything goes black.
-?-
When Rias Buchō woke me up to investigate a sudden spike in magic power that her familiar registered near Kuoh Academy, I was really, really annoyed.
After all, I was resting after a day of doing contracts with absolute weirdos all day, and once I could go to sleep, this woman wanted to make me go check whatever this was.
It's. Fucking. Three in the morning. This better be worth it.
I peeked from outside the window of the apartments where the magic had suddenly spiked, making myself not seen was quite easy, I was very stealthy after all.
Inside, I found what the familiar identified as the source of the magic power; I could sense it. It was just a dude, a student like me, maybe. He is a tall, black-haired guy around my age. His long hair seemed all over the place for some reason; maybe he just took a shower.
With my sharp hearing, I was listening as the dude was… talking to himself. And quite loudly at that.
''Of course, I do! Roll them all, baby!'' Roll what? Did I really come all the way here to watch some sort of crazy person?
''HOLY SHIT, SERIOUSLY?!''
…
''Okay, show me what I got then!'' Why did I agree to come look again? Wasn't Kiba or Akeno available…?
Ah, right. Rias promised me cookies in the morning, chocolate cookies at that.
''!'' Suddenly, a white and golden spear appeared in the middle of the room. The… I will call him Schizo-Hair for now. Schizo-Hair seemed just as shocked as me.
I was about to intervene; after all, the presence I sensed from the weapon felt really unsettling. Then, the idiot decided to just grab the spear.
''…!'' A bright flash of white flushed the apartment and also my vision, making me blind for a moment. Who the fuck dropped a damn flashbang?
With a hiss, I forced my eyes open to see Schizo-Hair on the floor, knocked out. The spear was nowhere to be seen, and I couldn't even sense the magic coming out of it anymore, or any residual trails for that matter.
''Such a pain…'' I'll have to report this to Rias; those cookies better be worth it.
...
And just like that, the white-haired girl disappeared into the night.
-Zatren Fumigami-
As I wake up, the first thing I do is check myself for injuries. With a sigh of relief after making sure I was okay, I took a look around to see where the spear went-
''What the fuck?'' Shock covers my features at what I see.
Instead of my small apartment, I found myself in the middle of what appeared to be a gray void.
Yet, in front of me, on a white and golden throne, there was a woman. A beautiful woman with white hair tied in a bun, pale, unblemished skin, and dressed in golden traditional Chinese clothes. She was holding the Legendary Spear in her hand, but I was far more perturbed by her intense look, her eyes, blood red. Felt like they were looking through me and not at me.
She looked familiar to that one character from Genshin. Ninguang, was it? Just a lot more 'ethereal', spirit-like even.
Emergency Quest!
Don't Die.
Before I could make a sound at the outrageous Quest, the woman spoke first.
''Zatren Fumigami, I don't know how, but you have stolen an invaluable relic from its world, and because of that, you have a lot to answer for.'' Her voice, even with only a faint trace of the intensity I've heard before, spoke in a no-nonsense tone and resolution. Like she was impairing judgment.
''Wait, what are you talking about? I didn't steal anything!'' Before I could control it, the words came out on their own. My regret was almost instant.
Her brow furrows as she rises from her seat, spear now pointed at me.
''You dare lie in my presence…?'' Her voice is hostile as her grip tightens around the Legendary Weapon.
If this woman were who I think she was, then I definitely didn't want to be on the end of her fury.
''Wait, wait, wait! Please let me explain, I swear what I say is true!'' I plead, my words sincere.
''…'' Silence is my answer. Her expression doesn't change, yet she retracts the spear, putting it by her side again.
''You have but one chance, explain yourself. If I find you even the slightest bit accountable, your death shall be a painful one.'' Is her resolution, in a stone-cold-like tone.
''Yes, yes, of course. However, it will take me time to explain.'' I'm impressed with myself for not stuttering this far. Can't say the same about my hand gripping and scratching my wrist.
''We have a lot of time, Zatren Fumigami. Now, proceed.'' Her eyes narrow, yet her tone stays firm.
I did as she asked. Telling her everything, from bits of my past life, explaining The System, the world she came from, and the world we inhabit now. (I got myself a look I couldn't quite place while explaining what an 'Ecchi' world was).
I also told her about what I did just today, from the Dungeon to unlocking the Gacha function, and that I won the Spear in a 'pull'. Now that made The Spirit of the Legendary Spear give me a fucking death glare. Fortunately, The System intervened.
Allow me. For this time only, I will shed a bit of light on the matter.
You were not 'taken' or 'stolen' from your world. We have basically copied your entire existence, modified a few things, and added you to the Gacha rewards of the current System user.
There seems to be a bug, however. The weapon wasn't supposed to gain a conscience or come with a 'spirit'.
The spirit woman looked shocked for a moment, and I could hear a few whispers coming out of her mouth.
''Surely you jest… For that kind of power…'' I didn't get much more than that, but her expression seemed to dawn in realization.
She stayed silent afterward. Probably trying to come to terms with it all. After what felt like an eternity, she looked at me, a glint of something in her eyes.
''I have heard your explanation and have come to a decision… You shall not be punished. Seemingly, your existence is the only thing tying me to this place and existence.'' Her voice is gentler, but not less firm. Her conclusion is resolute.
I released a sigh that I didn't even know I was holding.
''However.'' Celebrated too early.
''You still tried to become my wielder. Even without being chosen in the first place.'' She seemed angry at the fact. So, I did the best course of action right now.
I almost immediately took a knee and bowed my head. ''I apologize for my transgressions; I don't have any excuses. I selfishly wanted the power of this weapon and didn't think of the opinion of The Legendary Spear.'' Apologizing, that was my best bet here.
I wasn't very good at this formal speech thing she had going on, but I could at least do this much to appease any remaining rage she may hold.
''Raise your head, Zatren Fumigami.'' She says. An order, not a request.
I did just that, but I was still on one knee and looked directly into her eyes.
''I have seen into your life, the things you have lived and your experiences.'' There is a hint of something in her voice, but I can't decipher what. ''You are not quite what I will choose for a first-pick wielder. Yet, you're not lacking in qualities.''
''…'' I don't really know what to say to that. I know I'm not the best person out there, but to actually be on the list of backup wielders is nice.
''You are of the age that most weapons choose their wielders. Old enough to make rational decisions but young enough that your potential is yet untapped.'' She admits with a nod. 'Still, you have lived a sheltered life. Selfishly putting yourself above others, even blaming other people when you're clearly at fault.''
Damn it. I know I'm not hero material, but I thought that I was at least better than the three stooges. In the end, it seems I'm just like them or awfully similar.
''Then, I would guess I'm not worthy of the spear?'' I say with a resigned tone.
''No, not quite.'' Is her immediate answer. ''But, as we are in special circumstances, I shall test you in another way, with a question.'' She decides. At that moment, bright crimson eyes stare at deep hazel ones.
''A question…?'' I ask in surprise. The fact that she is giving me a chance at all is amazing! I almost can't contain my excitement.
''Indeed. Do you accept this condition?'' Her eyebrow raises. The question is left in the air.
''Yes, I accept.'' My answer is quick. I'm not wasting this chance. ''Please, ask away.''
''Very well then.'' There is a little smile on her face, probably at my fast decision. ''My question is this. What is this world to you, Zatren Fumigami?''
What this world means to me… Just when I woke up, I may have answered otherwise. A fantasy, a dream come true. Maybe even an escape, but now?
''An opportunity.'' That is my honest answer.
''Oh? Please elaborate.'' Her eyes and tone hold curiosity now.
''It's the opportunity to live a new life. Yet, it's more than that. It's not just a show or an anime where I can just fulfill my desires and be done with it. It's a real world, with real people who have their own struggles and victories, the highs and the lows, the good and the bad things.'' I explain.
Even if not the same, my memory goes back to the recent fight in the dungeon, the fear of an imposing enemy, the anger at being mocked by it, the determination to fight to the last moment, and the victory earned through blood and tears. Real, all absolutely real.
Yet…
''Still, just as you said, I'm a selfish person. I will take advantage of the knowledge I have to live my best life in this place. I will try to reach the highest peak that I can, and live for myself. I will even aim for the 'Harem Route'. So, I'll end up living not only for myself but for those that I care about. Believe me, I get attached easily.'' I end my speech with a bit of humor. Yet, those were my desires, and I won't change them. No matter what. ''That is my answer.''
''…'' For moments, silence is the only thing that fills the void, our eyes stay locked together. Neither side expresses what's going through their minds at the moment, until…
''Fufufu~'' A small, beautiful laugh echoes in the grey void, the owner of it? The spirit woman herself.
''Good answer, Fumigami- No. Partner.'' A wide and beautiful smile is placed on her face. Her eyes are bright with the tiniest hint of surprise. At the same time, a blue screen appears.
Job successfully selected and locked as the Spear Hero!
''My name is Jinzui.'' She speaks in a friendlier tone.
The smile splitting my face in half could have covered a whole skyscraper with its size. I pulled myself up, looking directly at Jinzui, not as someone would look at a threat anymore, but like one would look at an equal.
''I am Zatren Fumigami. Pleased to meet you, Partner.'' I give a nod in respect. Really, nothing can compare to the hype I'm feeling right now!
Within her eyes, I can see the acknowledgment. She gives me a nod in return, and then she speaks.
''Now, I think it's time for you to go. We will see each other again, rest well, Zatren.'' Her eyes close, the smile never leaving her face as the void around us fades.
And once again, everything goes dark.