Mazuka's world spun and whirled like he was stuck in a tornado. One minute, he was in Heaven, chatting with a glowing goddess about his epic quest; the next, he was unceremoniously dumped on a cold, stone floor. He blinked, trying to make sense of the abandoned stone shed he found himself in. The walls were covered in moss, and the ceiling was barely holding itself together. It looked like the kind of place you'd find in a horror movie.
Mazuka stumbled to his feet, brushing off dust that seemed to have a vendetta against his new clothes. His outfit had miraculously transformed into a tunic and trousers that looked like they were from a medieval thrift store. He took a look at his hands and noticed he was leaner and more agile. He could actually see his abs now, which was a nice surprise. If only his old self could see him now.
He took a deep breath and pushed open the only door, which creaked ominously. Blinding sunlight flooded in, and Mazuka shielded his eyes. As he adjusted, he saw a group of people standing a few yards away, looking like they'd just stepped out of a fantasy novel.
One of them, a tall man in silver armor, stepped forward. His face was covered in scars, and he had a look of someone who might actually enjoy getting into fights. His gaze was sharp, and he seemed to be sizing Mazuka up like he was the day's special.
"Welcome, Hero," the man said. His voice had that authoritative ring to it, like he was used to giving orders and having people obey. "I am Cedric. We have awaited your arrival."
Mazuka blinked. Hero? Oh right, the goddess had mentioned that. He was trying to piece together what was happening when a translucent panel appeared in front of him. He jumped back, almost tripping over his own feet.
**[SYSTEM ACTIVATED]**
**[Welcome, Hero]**
**[Initializing Status Overview]**
**[Appraisal Skill Unlocked]**
"What is this?" Mazuka muttered, staring at the panel. Was he in a game? This was starting to feel like an RPG, minus the comfort of a couch and snacks.
The panel updated automatically, showing him his stats. Mazuka gawked.
**[Status: Hero]**
**Name: Mazuka Inoue**
**Level: 1**
**HP: 100**
**MP: 50**
**Magic affinities: Fire, water,earth,wind, lightning.**
**Strength: 12**
**Agility: 14**
**Endurance: 11**
**Will Power: 10**
**Magic: 15**
**Abilities: Appraisal (Lv.1), ???**
"Well, that's new," Mazuka said, scratching his head. This was definitely not what he expected. He was relieved to see some decent stats, but the whole "???" for abilities didn't inspire confidence.
Cedric was watching him with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "You must have questions," he said, crossing his arms.
Mazuka nodded vigorously. "Just a few. First, where am I? Second, what's up with this window? And third, where can I get a guidebook for all this?"
Cedric's eyebrow twitched slightly. "You're in the Kingdom of Azure. As for the system, I do not know myself. Only heroes poses that power."
Mazuka's eyes widened. " Cool. And what's the deal with this kingdom? I thought it was all about wind magic."
Cedric smiled slightly. "Indeed, Azure is known for its wind magic, but other elements are present as well. We have some interesting guests in our midst."
Mazuka turned his attention to a mage standing behind Cedric, who was wearing robes with symbols that looked like they belonged in a high school science class. He decided to use the appraisal skill on them.
**[Appraisal Activated]**
**[Target: Liana Amara]**
**Name: Liana Amara**
**Level: 32**
**Role: Mage**
**Magic Affinity: Fire**
**Strength: 14**
**Agility: 16**
**Endurance: 13**
**Will Power: 15**
**Spirit Contract: Fira (Fire Spirit - Grants advanced fire manipulation and control.**
Mazuka raised an eyebrow. A fire mage with a contracted spirit? That sounded like something out of a superhero comic. He wanted to ask more, but Cedric was already gesturing for him to follow.
Mazuka cleared his throat, remembering his manners. "Oh, sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Mazuka Inoue. I just arrived from... somewhere."
Cedric's expression softened slightly. "I see. Well, Mazuka, let's get you settled. The King awaits you."
They walked through the forest path, which seemed to stretch endlessly. Mazuka was about to ask if they had a shortcut when Cedric said, "We're almost there. The King awaits you."
Mazuka tried to keep his mind from spinning with questions and doubts. They emerged from the forest into a grand courtyard. The castle loomed ahead, its towers reaching into the sky like a giant's fingers. It looked like a place where epic battles and royal intrigues took place.
Cedric led him through the castle gates, and Mazuka couldn't help but feel like he was walking into a high-stakes audition. The grand hallway they entered was lined with majestic statues and flickering. It was both impressive and intimidating.
Finally, they stopped before a pair of imposing double doors. Cedric turned to Mazuka, his expression serious.
"The King awaits you."