"Professor, I have a question," Amberine raised her hand, her voice filled with determination. "There is a certain magic circle that appeared at the dormitory, but we couldn't put our heads together to understand what it meant. As you're the great Professor Dra—"
"Name and occupation," Draven cut in, his tone cold and authoritative. "I believe anyone entering the Magic Tower University should know that it's basic to introduce oneself before spouting things off their mouth."
Amberine's excitement and malicious intent quickly turned into hesitation under Draven's sharp gaze. She felt a blush creep up her cheeks. "U-uh... I'm Amberine Polime. A freshman at—"
"Too late. Quickly show your problem," Draven interrupted impatiently.
"I-It's this," Amberine stammered, hastily drawing the magic circle in the air with her hands. The intricate lines and symbols glowed faintly as she completed the drawing.
Draven's face slightly frowned as he examined the magic circle.
'Hmph! Even if you show such a haughty stance, I'll definitely make your proud face panic with this. I know your false genius, and I'll reveal it to the world. You'll go from being a prodigious professor to a shameful fraud!' Amberine thought, her inner monologue brimming with spite and anticipation.
"I-It's a magic circle we found in the dormitory. Since yesterday was a vacation day, we couldn't ask any seniors or professors about it. Some even disregarded it as just a rumor. But since you're the great Professor Draven, I believe—" Amberine began.
"It's illusion magic combined with explosion magic. Someone's trying to prank you. I bet it was put in front of your door. Better try fixing your attitude to make sure it won't happen again in the future," Draven interrupted coldly.
His explanation was delivered with unwavering confidence, leaving no room for doubt. Amberine's face reddened with embarrassment. She quickly returned to her seat, pulling her hood further over her head to hide her mortification.
"This concludes the lecture," Draven announced, signaling the end of the session.
The students began to gather their things, some exchanging glances and whispers, while Amberine sat in silence, seething with humiliation.
___
"This concludes the lecture," I declared, wrapping up the session and heading straight out of the class.
As I exited, a wave of fatigue washed over me, my vision growing hazy and a dizzy spell hitting me hard. A screen flickered in my line of sight:
[Mana: 780/4750]
So, that was my remaining mana. Despite being an area boss, Draven's mana reserves were relatively low, boosted only after his awakening post-death. There were characters in the game with mana levels exceeding 25,000, a stark contrast to Draven's current state.
But that wasn't my immediate concern. I needed to find a place to rest and recover. The exertion from the lecture and the unexpected use of mana had taken its toll.
Before I could rest, a new screen appeared before me:
[Side quest completed: [The First Lecture] +1 Store Currency]
Store currency. I remembered this system well, having designed it myself. In addition to leveling up and crafting items, players could use store currency to improve their abilities, acquire new skills, or purchase various game attributes. This currency was earned by completing quests and defeating monsters.
I'd have to delve into that system later. For now, I had a more immediate need: finding a toilet in this ridiculously huge tower.
Navigating the sprawling hallways of the Magic Tower University, I tried to recall the layout from the game's design. It had been a while, but certain details were coming back to me. There should be a restroom nearby, adjacent to the main lecture halls.
Walking briskly, I took a left turn down a less crowded corridor. Few students were milling about, some engrossed in their notes, others chatting animatedly. Ignoring the curious glances directed my way, I focused on locating the restroom.
I glanced around, hoping to spot a familiar landmark that would guide me to the restroom. The assistant was busily collecting attendance and answering several follow-up questions from the students, so I let him be. My immediate concern was finding the damned toilet.
Navigating the labyrinthine halls of the Magic Tower University was no small feat, especially when nature called. The sprawling corridors and grandiose architecture, while impressive, made it easy to get lost. I tried to recall the layout from the game, but everything seemed larger and more complex in reality.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I spotted a discreet sign indicating the direction of the restrooms. Following it, I walked down a quieter corridor, away from the hustle and bustle of the lecture halls. The sound of my footsteps echoed off the stone walls, adding to the sense of urgency.
As I turned the corner, I finally saw the door marked with the universal symbol for restrooms. I pushed it open and entered, grateful for the momentary reprieve from the constant barrage of questions and the overwhelming new reality I found myself in.
Inside, the restroom was as grand as the rest of the university, with polished marble surfaces and ornate fixtures. I took a deep breath, appreciating the brief moment of solitude, and headed to one of the stalls.
As I settled in, my mind raced with thoughts of the lecture I had just given, the store currency system, and the unexpected twist of fate that had brought me here.
Now the store currency system.
How could I use it?
As if reading my thoughts, a screen filled with catalogs appeared in front of me. It's the catalog of things that I could buy with my current store currency.
[Store currency: 1]
[Options:
1. Herculean Physique
2. Enhanced Speed
3. Elemental Manipulation (Basic)
4. Telekinesis (Basic)
5. Enhanced Reflexes
6. Arcane Sight Lens
7. Healing Balm
8. Basic Mana Potion
9. Illusionist's Trinket
10. Ice Crystal Shard (Single Use)
11. Basic Shield Charm
12. Levitation Boots
13. Magic Tracer Charm
14. Potion of Invisibility (Limited Time)
15. Basic Enchantment Scroll
16. Translator Amulet
17. Light Orb
18. Pocket Dimension Key (Single Use)
19. Truth Serum
20. Energy Refresher Elixir
21. Antidote Potion
22. Disguise Powder
23. Amplification Stone (Single Use)
24. Memory Enhancement Potion
25. Wind Whisperer's Amulet
26. Anti-Tracking Powder
27. Stealth Cloak (Limited Time)
28. Elemental Resistance Talisman
29. Mind Reading Crystal (Limited Time)
30. Grappling Hook Launcher]
The options appeared in front of my sight, but as soon as I saw [Herculean Physique], I immediately chose it without further thought.
[Store currency used: Herculean Phsyique]
The Herculean Physique trait is a formidable enhancement to one's physical capabilities, imbuing the recipient with exceptional strength, endurance, and resilience. Those who possess this trait are endowed with a physique reminiscent of the legendary hero Hercules, renowned for his unmatched might and prowess.
Upon activating the Herculean Physique, the recipient experiences a surge of energy coursing through their body, revitalizing their muscles and fortifying their frame. Muscles bulge with newfound power, veins stand out prominently beneath the skin, and a sense of invigoration washes over them.
Strength is the hallmark of the Herculean Physique, with the recipient gaining the ability to perform feats of physical prowess that would be impossible for an average individual. Lifting heavy objects, breaking through barriers, and engaging in hand-to-hand combat become second nature, as their muscles become capable of exerting tremendous force.
Endurance is another key aspect of this trait, granting the recipient heightened stamina and resilience to fatigue. They can push themselves harder and longer than ever before, enduring physical exertion and withstanding punishment that would leave others gasping for breath.
Furthermore, the Herculean Physique enhances the recipient's resilience to injury, providing a layer of protection against harm. Their body becomes more resistant to damage, able to shrug off blows and withstand punishment that would incapacitate a lesser individual.
In essence, the Herculean Physique transforms the recipient into a veritable powerhouse, capable of feats of strength and endurance that defy conventional limits. It is a trait coveted by warriors, athletes, and adventurers alike, offering unparalleled physical prowess and the potential for greatness in any endeavor requiring strength and resilience.
It shouldn't be something that could be bought with only 1 store currency. Could it be that there is a system bug?
But anyway, It's nothing to hesitate about.
With a quick decision, I selected the option for Herculean Physique from the store catalog. Instantly, a surge of energy coursed through my body, and I felt a transformation taking place.
Strength flooded my muscles, filling them with newfound power and vitality. My limbs felt invigorated, as if they were now capable of feats far beyond their previous limitations. Every movement was infused with a sense of vigor and resilience, as though I had tapped into an endless well of physical prowess.
As I flexed my arms, I could feel the muscles rippling beneath my skin, stronger and more defined than ever before. It was as if I had undergone years of intense training in a matter of moments, achieving a level of strength and endurance that surpassed anything I had ever imagined.
"Good,"