The town of Rivenstone was bustling when Damian stepped out into the streets that morning. Merchants shouted over one another, hawking fabrics, spices, and trinkets from across the continent. Children darted between stalls, laughing. The scent of grilled meat mingled with the tang of metal from the blacksmiths' quarter.
For once, Damian allowed himself to simply walk, absorbing the life of this new world. Yet beneath the surface calm, questions gnawed at him.
As if in answer, the AI's voice resonated in his mind.
"Query detected: status progression.
Host should ask his query".
"Go ahead," Damian muttered, keeping his voice low so passing townsfolk wouldn't think him mad.
Tell me what are this levels in my power and what will happen whenever I level up.
Query heard... Answering.
"At Level 1, you were capable of basic survival enhanced reflexes, minor strength increase.
"At level 2, the basic capabilities in level 1 get increased.
By Level 3, your body adapted to ambient mana, granting access to weapon infusion and minor spellcasting. Progression model indicates exponential growth."
Damian's eyes narrowed. "And what about later levels?"
"Projection:
Level 5: Full control of mana flow, ability to sustain multiple weapon infusions simultaneously.
Level 7: Potential to manifest personal 'Domain,' influencing environment in combat radius.And can also create a sinthetic life form.
Level 10: Capable of nation-level destruction through concentrated magic. Risk assessment: extremely high visibility."
He paused at a fountain, water glittering under the midday sun. Nation-level destruction? His fists clenched unconsciously. The weight of it pressed on him not fear, but the heavy sense of destiny.
"Are you saying… I could wipe out a country?"
"Affirmative. With current trajectory, such potential is inevitable. Advisory: conceal true strength until tactical reveal becomes necessary."
Damian exhaled slowly, steadying himself. "So that's the path, huh… A Maker."
He turned his gaze to the bustling people around him. Ordinary lives, untouched by the power he carried. If they knew what slept inside him, would they see him as savior or monster?
Before he could sink further into thought, a sudden crash split the air.
From the market's far side, shouting rose. A horse-drawn cart had overturned, its wheel shattered, spilling barrels into the street. One of the barrels rolled dangerously toward a group of children playing nearby.
Gasps erupted. The mother's scream cut through the air.
Damian didn't hesitate. His legs blurred as he sprinted forward, closing the distance faster than any ordinary man could. With one arm, he caught the rolling barrel, stopping it cold just inches from the frightened children.
The crowd gasped again, but this time in awe.
"Y-you caught that like it was nothing…" whispered a merchant.
Damian straightened, setting the barrel down gently. He looked back at the children, their wide eyes fixed on him.
"You alright?" he asked softly.
They nodded quickly, and their mother pulled them close, bowing deeply. "T-thank you, sir!"
Damian gave a small smile. "Be more careful next time." He turned to leave before more eyes locked onto him.
"Observation: Power usage detected. Output: 22% physical capacity. Concealment maintained, but risk rises with each display."
"Noted," Damian muttered under his breath.
As he walked away, whispers followed him.
"Who is that man?"
"So fast… was that magic?"
"No, his body… it was pure strength…"
Damian ignored them, returning to his path toward the guild hall. There, Rowan and Elara were waiting, waving him over. Rowan was grinning like always, while Elara looked amused at his contemplative face.
"Oi, Damian! Done daydreaming? Come on we've got some sparring left in us," Rowan called.
Damian let a small smile tug at his lips.
"Yeah. Coming."
As he walked toward them, the AI's voice whispered again, almost like a promise.
"Observation: Current path is only beginning. Arsenal not yet forged. Maker's potential limitless."
And with that, the weight in Damian's chest transformed into something sharper, steadier. Not dread. Not fear.
Resolve.