Chapter 24: Level Up
In Hephaestus Familia, most blacksmiths chose to reside in the Northeast branch. It is the place where their forges were built. Having the conviction to catch up to their goddess' level, they did not stop working most of the time.
Usually, the familia captain, Tsubaki Collbrande, would accompany Hephaestus the most. This changed when an Irregular appeared.
Work for ten hours.
Sleep for six hours.
Spend the remaining time casually for eight hours.
Repeat.
It is the routine of the boy sitting on the chair. They are currently in her office where she signs all the legal documents in her familia. Building a familia was not just simple work. The gods must communicate with the guild—the organization that acts as Orario's government.
Nobody disliked their role. In fact, every god preferred them to take on that troublesome role of maintaining order in this city.
Drip-!
From the moment her divinity came in contact with his falna, each of his achievements laid bare upon her sight.
Blazing through the seventeenth floor, defeating a goliath alone, encountering the Loki Familia…
She became silent.
'Huh..?!'
At this moment, his danger sense flared up. Then—
Knock-!
"Ow!"
A swift knock came on the top of Nobu's head. It was followed by a sigh of exasperation by Hephaestus.
"I thought she's only the reckless one…" She mumbled. "Tell me, Nobu. Which floor did we agree on again?"
Facing his goddess, Nobu lost the will to look her in the eyes.
"The… twelfth floor."
"...How would you explain the battle against the Goliath? It should be on the seventeenth floor."
"..."
Nobu couldn't explain himself. Embarrassingly, the cause of this blunder is his excitement. For years, he had only received memories of his fights. Yet, he couldn't often apply it in real life due to his philosophy of living quietly.
The excitement and feeling brought about by a real battle… It isn't wrong to say that it is exhilarating.
Moreover, the wound-up pride that he hid for years exploded. It is alright to suffer some failure and losses, but everyone would be dissatisfied if that was all they ever experienced. Even the patient Nobu couldn't bear to lose more than a dozen times.
With that said, defeating Goliath did calm him down. However, it failed to let him remember his goddess' scolding when he returned.
"...I also wanted to win… sometimes." He sported off a childish reply. "I'm sorry…"
His experiences taught him to be regretful during a scolding. If he shows this kind of attitude, he might be forgiven.
It is something that came from his father during those times they were scolded by Nobu's mother.
"Sigh… You better not do this again, okay?"
Hearing his goddess' words, Nobu's complexion brightened up a little.
"But, if it happens again… You won't be going into the dungeon without Tsubaki."
"A-ah?"
Tsubaki, the 'big sister' that he always meets in the workshop. His forge is located there, making it so that he interacts with the other familia members. With his soft skills, he didn't have any issue with them whatsoever. Despite seeing their toxic work-related mindset, their determination is an aspect to admire.
'It won't be happening again.'
Thinking of that 'big sister' who could split dragons apart just to test out her new weapon, he prefers to be alone. He could already tell that he would be dragged by her in that dungeon expedition.
Seeing his determined looks, Hephaestus almost couldn't keep up her serious facade. She saw through his thoughts and barely held in her laughter.
"A-anyways. Here is it. Your status."
She wrote the status that she saw on his back before giving it to him.
[Level 1]
[Strength: H131→SSS1599 Defense: I98→SSS1599 Dexterity: H102→SSS1599 Agility: I76→SSS1599 Magic: H138→SSS1599]
<<Magic>>
[Orionids]
-The brightest star unveils itself to the watchful gaze of others. Summons a meteor strike to the target.
Activation chant: "I shall not understand the irrationality, yet I ask thee. Illuminate the sky with thy light. Enth, Astrum.
<<Skills>>
[Miracle Maker]
-Enhances every creation.
-Provides guidance in creating new items.
-Additional abilities to the creations can be imbued by chance.
-Excelia gain will be increased during creation.
[Child of Constellations]
-Under the blessing of the starry sky, growth speed, magical abilities, and recovery are increased.
-Legends related to "stars" are strengthened.
While updating his status, Hephaestus had been shocked. Not only did he break through the S stat barrier, but he had also reached an uncharted territory even for gods.
What's even more absurd is that…
"This is your stat as a Level One."
"..?"
Briefly, Nobu wore a confused look before realizing the meaning behind her words.
"You have leveled up."
Level up.
A term used in any game. Simply put, it means "transition towards a greater level". It refers to the character's rise in strength, allowing them to partake in greater challenges. With the high-level excelia he gained, Nobu broke the utmost limits and leveled up on his own; making him a unique case in Gekai.
"There are five developmental abilities to choose from. I am familiar with [Hunter], [Mysteries], and [Mage]. However, the last two… you might understand it more than I do."
Every time an adventurer levels up, there is a chance to gain something called development ability. In gaming terms, they are the passive skills that a character gains upon a level-up. It could enhance strength, improve resilience, and bestow them with a new ability.
"Jitsugyouka… and Ha—ka?" (Entrepreneur and Hacker..?)
Nobu's eyes lit up upon hearing the final two choices.
Hunter, a listed development ability that enhances one's abilities against monsters they have fought before.
Mage, another listed development ability that increases the user's magic-related power.
Mysteries, the famed ability that less than five people had possessed throughout history.
Upon hearing the first three, Nobu canceled them out. He did not need [Hunter] due to his abundant fighting experiences while [Mage] could be replicated once he resolves his [Mana Furnace]. As for [Mysteries], he already has [Miracle Maker] that does the same thing.
"Entrepreneur… It pertains to a type of businessman, Hephaestus-sama. I am one back in my world." He said. "I invent new things and people purchase them."
"I see. What about the second one?"
While she is a goddess, there are some foreign terminologies that she had not heard of. She was not the type to frequently socialize in Tenkai, focusing more on her skills as the god of smithing.
"Hacker… Well, it is the term used for people who illegally tamper with information on the Internet. Something similar to a spy, but much better."
During the first year of their company, it is inevitable that they attracted way too many enemies. Their sudden ascent to the technological field came off as a surprise, hence they thought that their core technology could be stolen. Unfortunately for them, Nobu beat them to it.
Not only did he defend their core technology, he also used the hacker's attack as a point of retaliation. Hours of sitting in his chair later, the program that he attached to them latched onto each company's Intranet.
In the end, this information benefitted him and advanced his knowledge by a few decades.
Before he was sent into this world, he still did it sometimes.
"But why is it hacker..?"
Nobu could not figure out the reason behind its appearance. Sure, he had a brief career as a hacker. However, it is not as influential as him being an entrepreneur.
"Languages… Coding… What does binary coding—"
Binary coding.
The set of 0's and 1's, more known as the basics of programming. It originated back in the 17th century when Gottfried Leibniz introduced his Binary System—a branch of arithmetics.
Coincidentally, the main magic system that he used is none other than Kaballah's numerology… which could also be represented by the binary system. In his research, he is theorizing a casting aid that could resolve the complex spells alone, enabling Nobu to cast large-scale spells with the duration of a four-line chant.
(A/N: Yes, he is coincidentally moving at the direction of Mahouka's CADs.)
Ba-dum.
Ba-dum.
Ba-dum.
His golden pupils lit up in excitement. His body started to shiver as he could not contain the possibility that he thought of.
"Hephaestus-sama! Please choose [Hacker] f—"
Bam-!
Since Nobu was sitting in front of the chair's back, he landed on the floor due to his excitement.
What met Hephaestus' concerned gaze was the beaming look of his. She could not help but look at him as a genuine kid as a result.
"A-alright. Go seat properly first."
Nobu did not know but his current appearance is strikingly adorable.
*****
My sight is drowned by numerous 0's and 1's. These are present in thin air as I stare at the ceiling.
If this works correctly…
I tried to shift the binary numbers into a corresponding pattern. I could manually do it with my experience.
After three minutes, the binary equation was finished. The numbers converged into a huge magic circle. It is transparent, glowing red as if calling forth something.
Moments later, a mirage of a fireball fell into its place. When it touched the ground, the numbers dispersed.
"...Damn."
What I have done just now is a simulation. If used without Kaballah's numerology, magic would not manifest in reality. This results in a virtual phenomenon that I have experienced.
…This changes the way I fight, completely.
By combining numerology and the binary system, my spells would become stronger. The casting time becomes shorter, the accuracy increases, and the raw power will be retained.
Albeit, the skill has certain flaws. For once, I could not use it properly on high-level spells. They originally takes me less than a minute to complete, yet it required three times its duration to cast. That's without the conversion of Kaballah's numerology.
Another thing is it carries a considerable load on my mind. Fatigue could come easier than before. Lastly, I could not keep the state of seeing binary numbers indefinitely. It consumes mind (mental power) to maintain.
For short, it will be shelved until it grows into something with practical use. I can't use spells with three-minute long durations; that's asking to be killed.
[Level 2]
[Strength: I0 Defense: I0 Dexterity: I0 Agility: I0 Magic: I0 Hacker: G]
<<Magic>>
[Orionids]
-The brightest star unveils itself to the watchful gaze of others. Summons a meteor strike to the target.
Activation chant: "I shall not understand the irrationality, yet I ask thee. Illuminate the sky with thy light. Enth, Astrum."
<<Skills>>
[Miracle Maker]
-Enhances every creation.
-Provides guidance in creating new items.
-Additional abilities to the creations can be imbued by chance.
-Excelia gain will be increased during creation.
[Child of Constellations]
-Under the blessing of the starry sky, growth speed, magical abilities, and recovery are increased.
-Legends related to "stars" are strengthened.
The projection of my status lit up in my eyes. The cheat that I possess is perhaps the only secret I have from others. I do not know how it works, but it showed me my status. It is supposed to be a cheat that alters time, yet its reach extends up to here.
Closing my status, I sensed the cooldown of my cheat.
A few more weeks... Is it two weeks or three weeks?
I have been absorbing magic stones until my limit, which led me to this. I would keep my new chance as a backup, hence I could only use the second chance, which will come weeks after the first one ends.
"I want to try Prehensionem." (Prison.)
I simulated another spell again. This will be the last time… I have to catch up on my sleep.
*****
I lost my sleep. What was supposed to end at around 2 AM ended at 5 AM. As a result, I woke up straight at Noon. By the time I exited the room, Hephaestus-sama was already gone. Most likely, she is in the Northwest shop.
After finding myself lazy about whipping up lunch, I decided to eat outside.
Right now, I am wearing a linen T-shirt and cargo pants. I found all of these at a shop in the shopping district. For a civilization in the middle ages, some of its aspects did not match up.
Clothes are one of its examples.
Strolling into Western Main Street, I found many pubs and inns open. Though, the number of their customers is only a few. Adventurers are still busy at this period with the dungeon, which explains it.
"Hm..?"
The koine written on a wooden signboard caught my attention.
"Benevolent Mistress..?"
I think I have heard of it before…
…
That's right. Lante-san mentioned this place. It's famous for its good food, she says.
I did not have much time to explore Orario yet. Perhaps, I will be considering this day as my vacation.
Feeling my stomach protest, I decided to enter this two-story building.
Loud chatter entered my ears. It looks similar to the family restaurants that I frequented with my family. Adventurers not being here to make a mess also contributes to such peace.
I found myself an empty seat in the corner. On top of the table, a menu is neatly placed.
"Rabbit steak, mushroom stew… even ramen..?!"
Further down the menu, I found the Far East section.
"Unagidon…"
I love every food equally, but curries and unagidon have a special place in my heart. These are the dishes that kaa-san and tou-san made for us. Tou-san came from Kamakura, which is why he knew how to grill eels the best.
I tasted unagidon in Hamamatsu, but tou-san's cooking hits differently.
After raising my hand, I wasted for a while until a waitress came to my table.
She wore (what I assume) to be the traditional uniform—a green dress, an apron, black leggings, and the like. Her long ears signified she is an elf.
Her beauty is superior to most, but my immunity finally came to work. I am no longer affected by stunning beauty!
"Can I have one… no, two unagidon and a rabbit steak?"
"Yes. Wait a moment."
She took the menu before heading over to the counter. Her cold tone lingered around my ears.
I guess elves aren't a friendly race. I got too used to Lante-san's friendly attitude. Remembering the over-friendly elf, I wondered what they are doing.
Two days ago, they said that they would begin to prowl the dungeon and that they would not leave Orario for a while. With their accumulated experiences, I believe they would be able to smoothly level up.
Along with the magic swords I made for them, they could breeze through the middle floors easily. Rethusa-san is also a cautious leader, so their safety is in good hands.
Random thoughts flew into my mind as I waited for my lunch. I thought of playing around with binary numbers here, but it isn't good to do so in a public space.
"Here it is."
The same green-haired elf brought my orders in a tray. It is also then did I find something strange.
'Her balance and posture… A hunter?'
She reminded me of the ninjas and sorcerers who are crazy good at balancing themselves. Heck, there is someone who could stand on top of Tokyo Tower, with a single antenna to stand onto, no less!
'Nevermind. I want to eat my fill already.'
As my thoughts shifted, so is my taste buds. The umami of the sauce hit just right—not too strong nor weak. It is also grilled well enough to retain its soft and chewy texture.
I rate it a perfect ten.
As for the rabbit steak, it is a medium-rare one basted in butter and herb that tastes like rosemary. The outer skin is roasted well on the pan while its inner portion is cooked through internal heat.
I got so engrossed with the taste that I found my plates clean after some time.
'That was some good fucking food.'
It was so good that I couldn't help but curse.
I raised my hand and signaled for the bill to one of the waitresses. Soon, the elf came back with a note and a small box.
"The total receipt is 3,000 valis."
Confirming that the numbers matched the prices on the menu, I placed ten big gold coins that equated to 10,000 valis. I did not speak with the elf and chose to leave instead.
"Wait. You—"
I tilted my head back and said:
"The food here is crazy good. That's my thanks."
With that, I left the bewildered elf.
*****
"Wow. This is my first time seeing that nya."
"A rich young boy…"
The bewildered elf—Ryuu—went to her co-workers and asked what was going on.
"This is a tip, nya."
The other cat person, Chloe, added to Ahnya's remark.
"A tip..?"
In the morning and afternoon, most of their visitors are civilians. Most of them conserve their money and work in average-paying jobs. Thus, this is Ryuu's first time receiving a "tip".
"Nya! He is that boy with the eyes akin to a valis!"
"Sigh… Did you lose again big-time, nya?" Ahnya asked.
For a moment, the cat person became speechless before reacting, "Money is made to be spent! It comes and goes, nya!"
Dismissing the troublesome duo, Ryuu went back to work.
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