Chereads / Leveling with Automata / Chapter 25 - A Sudden Departure

Chapter 25 - A Sudden Departure

As he closed the status window, he saw another notification was appeared in front of him after reaching level 6.

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[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION]

Congratulations on reaching Level 6!

[As you have advanced to a higher level, the store will now be accessible to you.

Additionally, from now on, upon completing each quest, you will be rewarded with a certain amount of gold based on the difficulty of the quest. The Gold amount cannot be traded outside the store.]

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As Hee-Joon saw the new option available at the corner a new option with a cart symbol as a store, he entered the newly unlocked store, then he was greeted by an array of options to enhance his arsenal.

Rows of different swords adorned the shelves, each with its own unique design and stats. However, to his dismay, he noticed that many of the weapons were still locked, accessible only at higher levels of mastery.

Undeterred, he shifted his attention to the potions section. Various vials and bottles filled with mystical concoctions lined the display. Healing potions, stamina-restoring elixirs, and even temporary stat-boosting potions were available, all promising to aid him in his battles.

Aside from the purchasing options, he also noticed a section dedicated to selling loot. Currently, his gold balance read 0, but he anticipated amassing riches through his adventures. With the store at his disposal, Hee-Joon could now trade his hard-earned loot for gold, allowing him to acquire more powerful weapons and valuable items.

Feeling a sense of satisfaction with his current growth and the exhilarating day he had experienced, Hee-Joon made his way back home. The sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the landscape as he walked, his mind buzzing with thoughts of his newfound skills and the challenges that lay ahead.

As Hee-Joon stepped into his small apartment, he couldn't help but notice the two packed suitcases beside the wall and his father, Evans, in the midst of changing his clothes. The atmosphere felt tense, with his mother, Ji-Woo, displaying signs of worry as she busied herself in the kitchen, preparing dinner.

Curiosity piqued, Hee-Joon approached his father, his voice laced with concern. "Dad, what's going on? Why are you packing? And where are you planning to go?"

Evans paused, his face reflecting a mix of emotions. He turned to face Hee-Joon, wearing a conflicted expression. "Son, I've been offered a transfer by my company. They want me to go to New York for work-related matters."

Hee-Joon's eyes widened, surprise evident in his voice. "New York? That's so sudden! Why didn't you mention anything earlier?"

Ji-Woo, overhearing their conversation, chimed in with a tinge of frustration, "That's what I've been asking him too, Hee-Joon. Your father didn't discuss it with us before making this decision."

Evans sighed, his tone laced with regret. "I know it might seem abrupt, but this opportunity could greatly advance my career. It's a chance for growth, and I believe it's the right move for our family's future."

With the revelation of his father's sudden decision to move to New York, Hee-Joon couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. His gaze shifted from his father to his mother, Ji-Woo, seeking answers. "Mom, why is Dad doing this? Is there something he's not telling us?"

Ji-Woo paused for a moment, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and understanding. "Hee-Joon, your father's decision is based on an urgent business matter. There are certain responsibilities and opportunities that require his immediate presence in New York."

Hee-Joon's brows furrowed in confusion. "But why all of a sudden? And why is it so urgent?"

Ji-Woo sighed, her voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "Sometimes, in life, unexpected circumstances arise that require us to make quick decisions. Your father's work demands have necessitated this sudden move. He will have to depart today."

"Even though your father will be in New York, he plans to visit us occasionally. We will stay connected"

Evans, his expression filled with a glimmer of excitement and determination, walked towards the drawer beside the wall. He briskly opened it, revealing a simple wooden box tucked away inside. With a swift motion, he lifted the lid, unveiling two unadorned yet formidable blades.

"These," he said, a hint of pride and regret mingling in his voice, "are special blades, though they may not be flashy or elaborate. I managed to get my hands on them through a friend who deals in rare weaponry. They have a unique power that will come in handy when things get tough."

Hee-Joon's eyes widened as he took in the sight of the blades. They lacked intricate designs, and their appearance was rather unassuming. Yet, there was an unmistakable air of strength and purpose about them. He reached out, feeling the weight of the hilt in his hand, appreciating the no-frills beauty of the blades.

"Father, they're something else," he remarked, his tone laced with a mix of gratitude and curiosity. "But how did you manage to snag these rare weapons? And why now?"

Evans let out a sigh, his gaze reflecting a blend of pride and concern. "Hee-Joon, my boy, these blades may not be the most extravagant, but they spoke to me in their simplicity. I wanted to give you something meaningful, even if it's all I could afford for now."

Hee-Joon nodded, understanding his father's intentions. The blades may not have been adorned with ornate embellishments, but their value lay in their potential.

"Thanks, Dad," he replied, his tone a bit less heartfelt but still appreciative. "I'll make good use of these blades and take care of them. Their rarity adds to their allure, a reminder of your support and the sacrifices you made."

As the evening settled into a warm familial ambiance, everyone gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. The aroma of homemade food filled the air, creating an atmosphere of comfort and togetherness. It was a special dinner, a final gathering before Evans' departure.

Later that night, Hee-Joon and Ji-Woo accompanied their father to the airport. They arrived at the "Incheon International Airport", a bustling hub filled with the anticipation of travelers embarking on new journeys.

The trio walked through the bustling crowds, their steps filled with a mixture of excitement and melancholy. As they approached the departure gate, emotions swirled within them. Hee-Joon clutched the wooden box containing the rare blades, a tangible reminder of his father's love and support.

Ji-Woo, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, held onto Hee-Joon's arm, seeking solace in their shared presence. They stood by their father's side, offering silent support, knowing that this farewell marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Amidst the noise and chaos of the airport, Evans turned to his children, a bittersweet smile on his face. "Take care of each other while I'm away," he said, his voice tinged with a mixture of pride and longing. "Remember, no matter the distance, our love will always bind us together."

Hee-Joon nodded, his determination shining through his eyes. "We'll be fine, Dad. Focus on your work and come back to us safely. We'll make you proud."

With a final embrace, the family bid their farewells. Hee-Joon and Ji-Woo watched as their father disappeared into the crowd, heading towards his gate. They stood there for a moment, a mix of emotions swirling within them, before turning to face the path that lay ahead.