Chapter 5:Learning more about the system

I need to understand why the system didn't specify a level when I checked my status.

The Host hasn't gained any experience yet.

How can I accumulate experience?

By taking it.

Taking it, as in killing?

Yes.

Nothing here is straightforward, and you can't simply do things to earn experience.

That's how others upgrade their skills, but it won't work for you. While the rest of the world must improve their abilities through repeated actions, you're different. You can simply use Skill Points to level up. That's how skill upgrades work for you, but it doesn't apply to ordinary people.

So, I can still upgrade my skills like everyone else, right?

Unfortunately, a negative Host can only enhance its stats and skills through the system itself. There are no potions or special food or plants that can provide a permanent boost or enhance your abilities.

To be clear: the method you're suggesting for others to become stronger is not an option for me.

I've already mentioned that you can become stronger by leveling up, and I have a lot more to offer than other systems. For instance, you still have one ongoing quest! Remember, you can gain strength through leveling, and I provide unique features like quests that other systems lack.

Alright, alright, just make sure it's worth my while.

One of the best advantages is that the host has the flexibility to allocate stat points however they choose. Other hosts don't have that privilege.

Okay, okay, I see you're not entirely useless.

Speaking of which, how is my daily progress shaping up?

Travel: 1 mile (0.6/1) Pushups: 0/10 Situps: 10/10 Squats: 10/10

I just need a little more effort to finish the pushups. By the way, Vulcan left, and I think I might have upset him. He stormed out after our earlier conversation, saying kids today are just too clueless.

Kain initiates the first push-up, pouring all his strength into the movement. His arms tremble throughout the effort. After completing the repetition, he pauses for a 5-minute rest.

This pattern repeats until the notification appears:

Pushups 10/10

It takes Kain over 50 minutes to manage just 10 push-ups. Feeling defeated, he acknowledges his weakness. Now, it's time for a walk. He plans to wash up in the river to check if the water is drinkable.

Exiting the workshop, Kain realizes he hadn't noticed the absence of customers—zero had come through the door. It struck him as odd, although he guessed that those who might seek a sword probably couldn't afford one, no matter how desperate their need.

With determination, Kain makes his way behind the workshop and continues until he arrives at the river. The familiar sight of the same uniform homes fills the landscape, as if one street had been copied and pasted repeatedly. As he approaches the river, not far off, he gasps in astonishment. A bridge spans the water. It may not be remarkable, but the river itself certainly is, stretching at least 30 feet across—an impressive vista.

What captures Kain's attention even more is the city before him. It's the same location he knows, yet it feels like an entirely different realm. The buildings are expertly constructed, lining a wide cobblestone road that runs through the center, adorned with lamp posts that glimmer in the daylight. The scene melds fantasy with medieval charm, creating a stunningly beautiful landscape. As he surveys the area, Kain notices two guards—one armed with a spear, the other with a sword. They wear blue uniforms reminiscent of contemporary British guards, lacking any armor.

Kain walked purposefully to the river, cupping his hands to scoop up a handful of water Without a moment's hesitation, he drank deeply, savoring the refreshing coolness he felt sufficiently quenched. He then gave himself a makeshift bird bath, splashing water over his body in a series of enthusiastic handfuls. He repeated this until he felt certain he'd done all he could with just his hands and the river's bounty.

As he caught sight of his reflection for the first time, Kain noted his striking bright red eyes and shock of white hair. At just 5 feet tall, he appeared to be a child lacking any semblance of a nurturing family. Yet, a determination stirred within him; he knew it was time to change that narrative.

In that moment, Kain dismissed the previous existence of the boy he inhabited. He recognized that the family who had abandoned him didn't deserve his concern. They had clearly failed him in the most basic ways, and dwelling on it served no purpose.

Resolutely, Kain turned to head back to Vulcan's workshop. As he approached the front door, he felt a sense of accomplishment.

Travel 1 mile 1/1

Daily task complete 

Reward: 1 stat point, 1 skill point

"System put a point into stamina."

Stamina 1-->2

Kain feels energized despite the darkness outside, and he's determined to discover his next steps. He decides to consult Vulcan. Approaching the forge, he hears the familiar rhythmic sound of hammering. Kain knocks on the door, and after a brief pause, the hammering ceases, and Vulcan appears.

"I've answered all your questions," he says. "If you seek more knowledge, you'll have to look elsewhere. I'm not a library."

Kain responds, "I'd like to ask if I can stay here for the night, and if you have a bucket I could borrow."

Vulcan hands him a bucket. "Here, take this. I use it to collect water for quenching hot metal. You can sleep in the small closet; it will be just enough for one person. But remember, when morning comes, I expect this place to be spotless, or you won't get breakfast."

"Yes, sir," Kain replies.

Taking the bucket, Kain heads to the river, filling it to the brim before making his way back. Even with enhanced stamina, the task proves to be a significant challenge. He enters the workshop and places the half-full bucket on the ground, accidentally spilling some of its contents. He shrugs it off, opting to rest for 30 minutes before tackling the cleaning task. Kain spends the next four hours tidying up, taking brief breaks every 15 minutes. By the end of his efforts, the shop looks impressive.

The Host has gained the skill:Cleaning Level 1

Cleaning: 10% more efficient at cleaning

"I appreciate the upgrade," Kain mutters to himself, "but it could have come sooner. I'm worn out, and honestly, I don't care anymore."

With that, Kain strides straight to the supply closet, curls up into a ball, and drifts off to sleep.