Around 1000 years ago, Earth was invaded by an intergalactic species. Due to humanity's mistakes, a species called the Hclri became infuriated and turned Earth into their playground—to experiment with the powers of new monsters and for their entertainment.
One of my ancestors had the power to jump through time, which caused a lot of ripples—but also helped us advance at an unprecedented speed. Back then, any ability could only be possessed by one person, and it wouldn't transfer even after their death. However, thanks to the same crisis, we made technological advancements that now allow us to replicate most abilities.
While most people are born with a single ability, purchasing and applying Ability Cards also grants them new skills. The biggest benefit? These cards can be transferred—if the awakened user actually wants to pass it on.
My grandmother, the founder of DA Group, ensured that Ability Cards, once bound, could only be transferred when the user genuinely desired to. Not only that, but depending on the rank of the skill, there's also a strict limit on how many cards you can purchase from us. This includes a clause that prevents further transfers once the receiver reaches that limit.
With so many precautions, the balance of society has been maintained—until now. She died two days ago, and now I'm standing in front of the board members who are divided on the idea of appointing me as the new CEO.
Obviously, I don't want to take on so much responsibility. My ability might be SSS-rank, but I don't want to rot in a room full of old people. Seriously, how long are they planning to stick around? They've been serving since my grandma's time. Even their secretaries are ancient.
Ahhh... I just want to hang out with people my age.
By the way, my parents are totally fine—healthier than me, honestly. But they've completely refused to take over the seat. My dad's name is Chanakya, and like his name, his intelligence is off the charts. Everyone here wanted him to take the position. But what can they do if he so blatantly refuses to work?
Grandma was so afraid I'd turn out like him that she made me swear an oath I could never refuse this position. So please, oldies, vote against me. I don't want to be CEO. Please… weep weep.
I already have more money than all of you combined. I don't need to hold this position. Grandma left me 49% of the company shares. I could sit around and spend billions every day, and it still wouldn't make a dent in my pocket.
However… I can't say any of that. The oath won't let me speak anything that sounds like I'm voluntarily refusing the seat.
Grandma, I thought you loved me. Just why…? Weep weep...
Oh no. I wasn't paying attention, and the discussion is ending…
"After checking all the votes, the majority of board members have voted in favour of appointing Mr. Yug as our new CEO."
OH NO… WHY, JUST WHY?!
I HAVEN'T EVEN SERVED AS AN INTERN!
I'M ABSOLUTELY NOT SUITABLE FOR THIS ROLE!
…I wish I could say that out loud.
My name means "time" or "era," so naturally, my abilities are related to it. I can bring back or transport anything—or anyone—from any era. Which means, technically, I can do anything with it.
I want cash? I can pull it from my vault without moving.
I want to steal an uninvented weapon? I can get it.
I want to go back to when the aliens invaded Earth and study their tech? Absolutely—I already did that.
But I'm never telling anyone. I don't want more work.
There's one more thing I haven't told anyone yet… and I hope you'll keep it a secret too. I'm trusting you, okay?
The truth is: I was born with two abilities.
The second one shows up as a question mark and says "Unawakened."
I'll soon turn thirty, and like my ancestor, I'll probably unlock it then.
I just hope that ability will allow me to break free from this burden.