Leo stared at the ancient city that stretched before him, the vibrant chatter of Roman citizens washing over him in waves. Gaius had taken him into a hidden chamber that resembled a mix between a study and a laboratory, cluttered with scrolls and odd contraptions. Leo was still trying to process the fact that he had accidentally time-traveled and was now standing in a room with someone who believed he was more than just a lost college student.
"I have to say, Leo, it's an honor to meet you," Gaius said, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose with a mix of admiration and curiosity. "Now, let's see what secrets you brought with you."
Before Leo could ask what Gaius meant, a soft ping echoed in the room, and suddenly, the air shimmered like liquid gold. Leo jumped back, clutching the glowing book tighter as a holographic interface sprang to life before him, suspended in mid-air. It was sleek, futuristic—an anomaly in the middle of ancient Rome.
"W-what the…?" Leo whispered, staring at the hologram as it projected his stats and skills, each word glowing in bold, elegant font.
[Leo Carter – Level 1]
Skills:
Language Comprehension (Passive): Understands and speaks all languages.
Quick Learner: Gains new skills and knowledge faster.
Improvised Combat: Able to defend himself with anything at hand.
Ancient Insight: Basic understanding of Roman politics and culture.
Inventory:
Mysterious Tome: A book that pulses with unknown energy.
Basic Backpack: Contains the essentials from his dorm room—textbooks, snacks, and a half-empty water bottle.
Smartphone: Currently offline and out of service.
Shop (Currency: Gold Coins)
Healing Potion – 50 Gold Coins
Roman Garb – 30 Gold Coins
Talisman of Luck – 100 Gold Coins
Training Manual: Advanced Roman History – 75 Gold Coins
Beginner Gift: Scroll of Knowledge: A one-time-use item that grants insight into any chosen topic related to Roman culture, politics, or combat.
Leo's jaw dropped. "No way. Is this… some kind of game system?" He reached out tentatively, pressing a finger to the screen as it responded with a soft ding.
"Please select your beginner gift," the hologram intoned in a calm, synthesized voice.
"Wait, this is really happening?" Leo said, glancing at Gaius, who was staring at the display with eyes wide as saucers.
"By the gods," Gaius breathed. "Is this the work of the gods or something far more sinister?"
Leo's brain spun with the implications. A system? Was he being tested? It was like he'd been plucked out of his comfortable life as a college student and dropped into a game he didn't know how to play. His heart raced with a mix of excitement and fear as he chose the Scroll of Knowledge.
"Choose wisely," the hologram said, and the scroll appeared in his inventory, a simple parchment with intricate runes glowing softly.
Leo held up the glowing book and took a deep breath. "Well, if this is going to be my life now, I guess I better get used to making decisions I don't understand."
Gaius looked at him with newfound reverence. "Leo, this changes everything. We're not just in the middle of Rome's power struggle anymore; we're at the edge of history itself. And you, my friend, are now its most intriguing player."
Leo couldn't help but smirk. "I guess I'm going to need some new clothes, then. This 'transmigrator' thing doesn't exactly come with a style guide."
The hologram flickered and flashed with new options, signaling the next stage of his journey. Leo Carter's adventure in Ancient Rome was only just beginning, and one thing was certain: it was going to be anything but ordinary.