章 21: Renewed Hope.
Sura's understanding of Dian's fear was immediate, as if she could intuitively grasp the depths of his concerns. She recognized the gravity of his situation - not knowing how to lead a typical life or occupy his free time, Dian was apprehensive about losing the fragile semblance of normalcy he had painstakingly acquired over the years. Yet, to Sura's surprise, Dian was not alone in facing such trials.
Drawing from her extensive knowledge, accumulated through the rigorous path she undertook to become a teacher, Sura recalled the tales of soldiers in the historical records of the World of Eos. They, too, had encountered similar challenges after enduring continental wars, finding themselves in a state akin to Dian's. Some managed to rediscover their humanity and adapt to a more tranquil existence, while others, consumed by an insatiable thirst for violence, resorted to harming others in a desperate attempt to reclaim the exhilaration of battle.
Seeing Dian embodying the very essence of those stories she had studied, Sura felt an unwavering determination and excitement, to help him out. In the face of such a tangible manifestation of the histories she had delved into, she could not bear to leave him to his own devices. Sura recognized that her accumulated wisdom and experience held the potential to alleviate Dian's struggles and guide him toward a more fulfilling path.
Sura had a strong hunch about Dian's core issue - he simply lacked the knowledge of what a normal person does. While others had dreams and ambitions from a young age, working diligently to achieve them, Dian had been deprived of such guidance and decision-making. His life had been defined by the relentless struggle to fight and survive, leaving him adrift in the realm of ordinary existence. Understanding this, Sura felt confident in her ability to assist him.
With a clear purpose in mind, Sura swiftly devised a plan to help Dian navigate his predicament. Firstly, she proposed that he visit the library and immerse himself in books about this world, allowing him to gain a deeper understanding of its intricacies. Additionally, she recommended a selection of autobiographies penned by renowned authors, knowing that these firsthand accounts would greatly aid his journey. By encouraging Dian to cultivate an ambition of his own, Sura believed that he would no longer tremble at the thought of losing his humanity, finding solace and purpose in his newfound direction.
Secondly, she encouraged him to seek opportunities to earn money and enroll in the academy. The underlying reason for these endeavors was simple: to expand his social circle. Sura believed that true growth occurs through interactions with others, as one's own strengths and weaknesses are revealed and tested in the presence of different perspectives. By forming connections with individuals who were not soldiers and shared similar experiences, Dian would gain invaluable knowledge and insights that he would not have acquired on his own.
And lastly, Sura emphasized the importance of Dian's personal growth and strength. This world was teeming with demons and monstrous creatures akin to them, posing a constant threat. If Dian wished to avoid becoming their prey, he needed to enhance his own power.
Dian grappled with uncertainty regarding the idea of leveling up. His ingrained skepticism made him wary of any action that seemed too powerful, suspecting that there must be dire consequences lurking behind such abilities. He even entertained the notion of potentially turning into a demon himself. However, Sura reassured him that the consequences were inconsequential compared to the alternative: either he became stronger or succumbed to becoming prey for the insidious creatures surrounding them. The choice was clear, and Dian couldn't ignore the undeniable truth that his powerlessness had left him incapable of protecting both Sura and Nina in their time of need.
With a moment of hesitation, Dian mulled over the situation. He realized the immense difference; a bit of strength could have made in their recent trials. Regaining his resolve, Dian acknowledged that becoming stronger was a necessity, a path he had to embrace.
Once Sura had explained everything, she revealed an important detail that had slipped her mind earlier. Although Dian would eventually have access to the academy, library, and Hunter's guild, it would take some time for him to be registered into their systems. However, Sura reassured him that he could still make use of the basic subscriptions available today. Understanding the urgency of the situation and the need to evade the prying eyes of the Grand Elder, Sura advised Dian to prioritize earning money and swiftly depart from the council's guest room. This way, it would be more challenging for the Grand Elder to keep a close watch on his every move.
Sura's final gesture was to entrust Dian with five gold coins as a precautionary measure. Although Dian wasn't certain of the exact value of a gold coin in this world, he couldn't inquire further as Sura had already departed. Left alone on the bench, his gaze remained fixated on the enchanting pond before him. On the surface, he appeared calm and relaxed, but internally, Dian's thoughts raced, grappling with the choices that lay ahead. Should he dedicate himself to understanding this world and forge a new life here? Or should he focus on growing stronger and seek a way back to Earth, as his system had indicated was possible?
The truth was, Dian had never truly found a sense of belonging or harbored any specific ambitions. Lost since the very beginning, he now harbored a deep fear of being left to his own devices.
He took a deep breath, attempting to calm his racing thoughts. It was a bit hard but he started copying the mannerism of one of his friends in the military who would always hype others up, Dian knew he was doing something similar to a coping mechanism but he wouldn't be able to stand up from the bench if he didn't do it.
What are you so afraid of Dian? Dian thought to himself almost as if his friend was talking to him. Can you believe it? An entire new world! And you get to act like it's a game! This is everything you wanted, didn't you? Become strong and save the princess from the Demon lord and then be hailed a Hero! All while we go through so many adventures, meet new people, more cultures, and sooo much more! Yet, you're sulking?
Dian finally chuckled, "Yea why in the hell was I even scared. I mean, here, there's no drill Sargent, no rules, no torturing myself with training and fighting for a cause I don't believe in. Here, I'm my own man. I can do whatever I want and I'll do whatever I believe in."
A newfound sense of confidence washed over Dian, causing a genuine smile to grace his lips. A feeling of giddiness, almost like a weight being lifted off his shoulders, permeated his being. While he still grappled with a lingering sense of not quite belonging, an unfamiliar emotion welled up within him—happiness. It was a joy sparked by the multitude of possibilities that lay before him, like an open book waiting to be written.
With renewed determination, Dian rose from the bench, his previous fears dissipated. The thought of being left alone no longer held power over him. Yes, there were demons in this world, but it was also a place of undeniable beauty. Dian realized that he couldn't afford to miss out on all that this world had to offer. A newfound resolve infused his voice as he spoke aloud, "You know what? Why the hell was I even afraid of being left alone in the first place? There might be challenges, but this world is filled with wonders. I refuse to miss out on any of it."
With newfound determination, Dian set off towards the library, his steps purposeful and resolute. However, he soon realized that he didn't know the way and would need to ask for directions. Anxiety threatened to surface, but Dian managed to keep his composure this time, pushing through the discomfort. Though his nerves still tingled with unease, he understood that he had to gradually acclimate himself to such situations.
Choosing to visit the library first was a deliberate decision for Dian. It was there that he hoped to tap into his only asset in this unfamiliar world—his unique demon system. Dian recognized that the more he familiarized himself with his surroundings, the more his system would learn and aid him. While brute force and leveling up were options, Dian lacked weapons, skills, or a class that could provide him with a combat advantage. He did have a few demon corpses in his inventory, but extracting useful information from them would require additional knowledge.
The day was still young, and starting tomorrow, Dian was going to get busy as he would get all his privileges bestowed upon by the Grand elder. So until then. He was going to make the most of today.
週次パワーステータス
-- 推薦
ランキング 
-- 推薦
チケット