14-Aftermath

The subtle fragrance of lavender pulls me from the depths of sleep, but as my senses sharpen, a wave of discomfort washes over me."Ugh…"I try to sit up, but my entire body protests with sharp, aching pain. Glancing around, I recognize the familiar surroundings of my bedroom. My reflection in the mirror catches my eye—I'm shirtless, with bandages wrapped tightly around my right shoulder and left thigh.Despite the discomfort, I notice a slight increase in muscle mass. It's not dramatic, but it's undeniable—a testament to the physical toll and growth from Maurice's intense training.I lean back into the bed with a groan, my thoughts drifting to André. "Did André carry me back here?" I wonder aloud, half-expecting to hear the echoes of his and Maurice's constant banter following my collapse.Before I can linger on the thought, a familiar prompt appears before me.

Quest Completed!You have successfully survived Maurice!

You obtained 66 Stat Points!

Do you want to receive the Magic Artifact?

[Yes/No]

The System's notification pulls me back to reality."Right, the rewards," I mutter. My curiosity and excitement build as I select, "Yes," eager to claim the spoils of my grueling effort.A golden pocket watch materializes out of thin air, landing gently on my legs.

Artifact InfoName: Chrono Pendant

Rank: B+

Description: A golden pocket watch allows the user to slow down time.

A thrill courses through me as I read the artifact's description. The Chrono Pendant isn't just an artifact—it's a game-changer. Unlike traditional spells, Magic Artifacts don't require the user to possess Mana, making them invaluable for someone like me, a Manaless.Its rank, [B+], places it among mid-to-high-tier artifacts, and knowing it's infused with Mana equivalent to a [B+] ranked magician is exhilarating.

Master, it's both.

The System's input confirms it—rarity and Mana levels determine the rank."Even better," I whisper, gripping the artifact. The possibilities it offers are endless. The ability to slow time could tilt battles in my favor, giving me the edge I desperately need in a world stacked against me.But the artifact isn't the only reward. 66 Stat Points are waiting to be allocated."System, show my status," I command.

InfoName: Dominic Eñerforte

Age: 15

Title: NoneStatsStrength: 86 (E)

Endurance: 97 (E)

Agility: 76 (E)

Speed: 87 (E)

Mana: 0 (F)

Luck: 402 (C+)

Instinct: 747 (A+)

Charisma: 362 (C)

Stat Points: 66Manual ArtsBasic Gun Arts (D+) – Beginner (5%)

Basic Gun Arts encompass a wide range of basic combat techniques involving the use of firearms from range to melee. This art form requires not just physical dexterity to shoot and maneuver accurately but also a deep understanding of the firearms themselves—maintenance, bullet types, and the physics of shooting.

Scanning my stats, I decide to evenly distribute the points among my physical attributes."Add 16.5 each to Strength, Endurance, Agility, and Speed," I instruct.

Strength: 86 → 102.5 (E+)

Endurance: 97 → 113.5 (E+)

Agility: 76 → 92.5 (E)

Speed: 87 → 103.5 (E+)

The update has made a noticeable difference. My body feels lighter, stronger, and more responsive. It's as if a layer of fatigue has been peeled away and replaced by newfound vitality.I flex my fingers, testing the changes. "This is incredible," I murmur, the excitement building.These stat boosts, paired with the Chrono Pendant, will make me far more capable of handling the future events of this world.-Creak!The soft sound of the door opening snaps me from my thoughts. Startled, I instinctively hide the Chrono Pendant behind my back, gripping it tightly.Turning around, I see Celine entering the room with a warm smile, balancing a tray with a steaming bowl of soup."Dominic, I'm glad you're awake. How are you feeling?""I'm doing okay, Mum," I reply, my voice steadier than I expected given the lingering aches in my body.Celine walks over and gently sets the tray on the bedside table. The comforting aroma of chicken soup fills the air, warming me in a way that contrasts sharply with the cool morning breeze seeping through the window."Your father said you did great in your training," she says, her eyes soft with pride. "We're proud of you."Her words bring an unexpected warmth to my chest, momentarily easing the soreness in my body. "Thanks, Mum."As I take in her reassuring presence, a question suddenly pops into my mind. "By the way, where's Dad?""He's out getting healing potions for you," she informs me, adjusting the placement of the tray.I glance at the clock. The red digits read 8:32 AM."Mum, how long was I asleep?""You slept for seven hours," she says softly.Seven hours? That's… less than I expected. I thought I'd be out for days after Maurice's brutal training session, especially with the injuries I sustained."You're a strong boy, Dominic," Celine adds, her voice filled with warmth. "Your training has clearly built up your strength and resilience."Her reassurance feels like a balm, momentarily easing the weight of my worries. Despite everything, I'm still standing—or at least sitting—thanks to my enhanced stats and, perhaps, some of the fortitude I inherited from André."I made you some chicken soup," she says, gesturing to the tray. "It should help you recover. Eat while it's still warm."I nod, touched by her care.As she leaves the room, her steps light and comforting, my thoughts drift back to the Chrono Pendant hidden behind me.Once the door clicks shut, I retrieve the golden watch from its hiding place, holding it up to the moonlight. The craftsmanship is exquisite, and its intricate design radiates power and mystery."You're my new best friend," I murmur, marveling at the artifact's potential.Slowing down time is invaluable, especially for someone in my position. With my improved stats and this artifact, I can't help but wonder if I'm finally strong enough to take on a real challenge—an [E] Ranked Stargate.

New Quest!Quest: Raid an [E] ranked Stargate.

Reward: 50 Stat Points.

The System's timely notification breaks my train of thought.Perfect.[E] Ranked Stargates are home to monsters of equal rank, and while their danger level is considerable, they're also a treasure trove of resources. Completing a raid could yield Camilliums and monster orbs with significant value. The better the orb's quality, the higher the rewards.Not to mention, taking on a Stargate offers invaluable combat experience.I recall from the web novel that the Sapphire Guild in Verdant Haven has managed to stabilize lower-ranked Stargates—turning them into training dungeons. While their method isn't explained, they've successfully contained Stargates ranging from [E-] to [A+]. Higher-ranked ones—[S] to [SSS]—are still far too dangerous, even for seasoned Magitists.To survive this world's escalating dangers, I need to seize every opportunity to grow stronger."Knowing this, I should raid a [E] ranked Stargate," I resolve, my grip tightening on the Chrono Pendant.Though my body still aches from Maurice's training, the future demands urgency. In this world, danger doesn't wait. The impending events of Sylvestria will plunge every corner into conflict.If I want to survive and protect myself and those I care about, I can't afford to hesitate.-Creak!The door opens again, and instinctively, I hide behind the Chrono Pendant.This time, it's André. He steps in, holding a glass bottle filled with a shimmering green liquid—undoubtedly a healing potion."Hey, are you okay?" André asks, his voice gentle but probing.I nod, mustering a small smile. "Yeah…"He walks over, sitting beside me on the bed. His hand lands on my head in a comforting pat, and for a moment, the warmth in his gesture erases the lingering soreness in my body."You did well yesterday," he says, his tone full of pride as he hands me the potion. "Drink this healing potion."Grateful, I take the bottle and drink. The moment the cool liquid passes my lips, I feel its magic working, spreading a soothing warmth throughout my body. The pain fades almost instantly, replaced by a sense of renewal."Feeling better now?" André asks.I nod again."That's good to hear!" He smiles a genuine expression that always seems to lighten the room.His encouragement reminds me of something important: André isn't just my father in this world—he's also a Stargate Raider. Someone experienced in the very challenges I'm about to face. If anyone can help me with my quest, it's him."Dad, can I ask you for a favor?"André raises a brow, intrigued. "What do you need?""I was thinking… I want to try raiding an [E] ranked Stargate at Le Centre Stargate."Le Centre Stargate—the facility in the heart of Verdant Haven where anchored Stargates are maintained for training. It's the perfect place to test my newfound abilities.André's expression shifts to mild surprise. "Raid a Stargate now? You're still healing.""Not today," I clarify quickly, "but tomorrow! I need to do this to catch up. With the entrance exam for Verdant Arcanum coming up in a year, I don't want to fall behind…"My voice trails off, and I can tell my excuse is shaky. I'm not just trying to keep up; I'm trying to stay ahead of dangers André and Celine can't even imagine.André places a firm, reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Dominic, you're eager, but you should rest for now."His concern is genuine, but resting isn't an option for me. Knowing the catastrophic events looming ahead, I can't waste a day."No, I need to do this," I insist, resolute.André meets my gaze, studying me intently as if trying to read my thoughts. I can sense his doubt—not just about my readiness but about my sudden shift in ambition. The original Dominic aspired to be a Magitist, not a Stargate Raider. My change of heart must seem odd, if not entirely out of character, to him and Celine.Yet, despite their reservations, they've been nothing but supportive. Why? Is it their unwavering faith in Dominic, or is there something more they're not telling me? I push the question aside for now.After a long moment of silence, André lets out a heavy sigh."Alright, if you're sure," he finally says, his tone a mix of reluctance and trust.A wave of relief washes over me, and I can't stop the smile that spreads across my face. His agreement means everything to me."Thanks, Dad!"But before I can revel in the moment, André's expression shifts. His smile fades, replaced by a sharp seriousness that sets me on edge."With that settled, I have a question, Dominic," he says, his tone low and deliberate.The sudden weight in his voice makes my heart skip a beat. The playful, easygoing André is replaced by someone far more imposing.His intense gaze pins me in place. Did I do something wrong? Does he suspect something?Whatever it is, I steady myself, ready to face whatever comes next."What is it, Dad?" I ask, keeping my voice steady despite the growing tension in the room.André narrows his eyes slightly, studying me like a hawk. "When did you learn the Basic Gun Arts?"So that's what this is about.For a moment, my thoughts race. A direct lie? Or something more elaborate?

Let me assist you, Master.

The System's offer flashes briefly in my mind, but I dismiss it. I can't always rely on the System."I… learned it from SylvTube," I say, keeping my tone casual, hoping the explanation will suffice.SylvTube—the Sylvestrian equivalent of YouTube—is a plausible scapegoat. It's vast enough that a lie like this could easily blend into the sea of absurd content found there.André raises a skeptical eyebrow, his expression unwavering. "SylvTube? Really, Dominic? Basic Gun Arts aren't something you can just 'pick up' from watching videos. They require rigorous hands-on training, expert guidance, and constant practice. Theory is one thing; execution is another. So, who taught you?"Of course, he'd see right through that.I swallow hard. Time for Plan B."You're right," I say, adopting a sheepish tone. "It's not something you can learn just from watching videos. I tried to imitate what I saw, but I struggled a lot. During a sleepover at Arthur's house, he noticed me practicing. He said I'd need real weapons to train properly and gave me these two red guns."André's brow arches even higher, his skepticism growing, but I press on."Even then, I wasn't getting anywhere. That's when Arthur suggested I ask Professor Maurice for help. He agreed to train me." I shrug, trying to play it off. "It's been tough, but that's how I've been learning."The story isn't flawless, but it ties in with Arthur's previous cover story about giving me the guns. Maurice's reputation as a skilled [SS]-rank magician and combat expert also lends the explanation some credibility.André continues watching me, his gaze sharp and unrelenting. It feels like he's dissecting every word I just said. The silence stretches, heavy and suffocating, until he finally exhales a long sigh."I see. If that's the case, I'll believe you… for now," he says, his tone cautious, not entirely convinced.Relief floods me, but I keep my expression neutral.André stands, his imposing frame towering over me. "Rest up," he commands, his voice returning to its authoritative tone. "We leave for Aurelior tomorrow."Without waiting for a response, he strides toward the door, his presence as commanding on his way out as when he entered.When the door closes behind him, I let out a long, shaky exhale and collapse onto the bed, tension draining from my body. That was close. Too close.The cracks in my story might not be obvious now, but I can't keep relying on half-truths forever. André isn't the kind of person to let things slide if he senses something's off.Shifting my thoughts, I focus on tomorrow's trip to Aurelior—the capital of Verdant Haven and the hub of power and opportunity. This is a chance to strengthen myself further and prepare for the trials I know are coming.There's no room for slip-ups anymore. Not when the stakes are this high.════ ⋆★⋆ ════André EneforteAs I leave Dominic's room, a heavy sigh escapes me.Something feels… off.Dominic has changed, and not in the way people naturally evolve over time. It's abrupt, almost jarring, like someone flipped a switch overnight. The boy I've known for years—reserved, cautious, methodical—has become someone entirely different. Confidence now radiates from him, and he's grown uncharacteristically assertive, even confrontational. These aren't traits he's ever displayed so boldly.It's almost like I'm looking at a stranger wearing my son's skin.What troubles me most is his sudden shift in ambitions. For as long as I can remember, Dominic dreamed of becoming a Magitist. He spent countless hours studying, preparing for the entrance exam to join the Sapphire Guild. It wasn't just a dream—it was a goal he pursued with discipline and care.And now, that dream is gone.In its place is something completely at odds with who he used to be—a desire to become a Stargate Raider. A profession he once dismissed as reckless and unsuited to his talents. The pivot is so sudden, so drastic, that it feels forced, like he's chasing a path that isn't truly his own.Why?Why abandon everything he's worked for? Why embrace something he once rejected so strongly?It doesn't add up. Dominic has always been deliberate in his decisions, not one to act impulsively. People don't change so completely without a catalyst, and I haven't seen or heard of anything that could explain this transformation.And then there are the guns.The two red firearms, Galahad's Judgment, and the techniques he demonstrated with them… they're far beyond what I'd expect from Dominic. He says Arthur gave him the guns. That much, I can accept—Arthur's family is wealthy enough to afford such high-grade weaponry, and their friendship makes the gift plausible. But the Basic Gun Arts? That explanation doesn't sit right.SylvTube? Really?Basic Gun Arts isn't something you can just "pick up" from a video. It's an intricate combat discipline that demands precision, muscle memory, and guided instruction. No one becomes proficient by imitating tutorials, especially not someone with zero prior experience.And Maurice?The idea of Maurice training Dominic without mentioning it to me is… troubling. Maurice and I haven't spoken in years—not since that incident. He's not the type to take on students lightly, and if he really is mentoring Dominic, then something bigger is happening, something I'm not being told.Despite all this, part of me wants to believe Dominic.Why?Because lately, I've seen a fire in his eyes that I've never seen before—a conviction that feels real. Whatever drives him now, it's genuine, even if his explanations don't hold water. But that only deepens my concern. If Dominic truly believes in this new path, why does he feel the need to hide so much?He's hiding something.That much is clear. And as his father, it's my responsibility to uncover the truth—not to punish him, but to protect him. Sylvestria is an unforgiving world, and whatever Dominic is caught up in, I need to be ready to shield him from it.For now, though, I'll let it rest. Tomorrow, we leave for Aurelior. Verdant Haven's capital might hold the answers I need.