1. University of Portal Sciences***
The next day, Kang Hyun-Jun went to the university. The building resembled a hybrid of a scientific institute and a military base: tall walls and security scanners at the entrance. Students bustled around; some wore uniforms with patches labeled "Combat Class," while others were from the "Theory Class." Judging by his badge, Kang Hyun-Jun was in the "Geospatial Studies" program, a mix of theory and field analysis.
As soon as he crossed the gates, he was surrounded by unfamiliar faces who apparently knew this world's version of Kang Hyun-Jun. He had to pretend he remembered everything. Several people asked about some missed training session. He deflected with humor:
"Yeah, I wasn't feeling well. I'm fine now…"
In the hallway, a short-haired girl wearing glasses called out to him. Her gaze was stern, but there was a hint of concern in her voice:
"Kang Hyun-Jun! You know we have an exam session on 'Basics of Mana Passages' today. Are you ready?"
"Uh…" He hesitated, trying to recall her name. Fortunately, her badge read: "Lee Yeon-Ah — Class Representative."
"Of course… I'll do my best…"
Yeon-Ah frowned.
"'I'll do my best' isn't an answer. Don't let the group down; we need full marks, or we won't qualify for field practice."
Kang Hyun-Jun's heart sank. "Great, I already have responsibilities here too."
2. Lecture on the Nature of Portals***
The first lecture was by a gray-haired professor named Choi, who explained the origins of portals:
Years ago (about 15 years in this world), spatial tears suddenly appeared, connecting Earth to different dimensions.The first portals were low-rank (E-D), but soon A-, S-, and higher ranks began to surface.Scientists discovered that mana energy is the key to stabilizing or closing portals. Mana generator technology was developed through collaboration with dwarves (from another world).Over time, humanity learned how to "clear" portals: an awakened team would enter, kill the dungeon's "boss," and the portal would disappear. This became a lucrative endeavor.
Kang Hyun-Jun listened intently, trying to absorb everything from scratch. "So, in this world, this is all routine. People treat dungeon clearing as a job, and some die if they underestimate the monsters. No wonder there are entire educational institutions for this…"
3. Called to Practical Training***
After the lecture, the practical exam began. The students were taken to a special training ground at the university. Inside a closed dome, "artificial gates" of E-rank were simulated, allowing groups of three to four students to enter.
Lee Yeon-Ah, as the class representative, organized the teams. Kang Hyun-Jun was grouped with her and another student named Park Min-Soo, a tall and cocky guy.
"Ha, let's see what you've got," Min-Soo said, nodding at Kang Hyun-Jun. "Last time, you almost screwed up if it weren't for my help."
Kang Hyun-Jun flushed slightly.
"Well… I'll do my best this time."
Thought
(Once again, these people think I'm 'their' Kang Hyun-Jun and expect something. But I'm seeing all this for the first time!)
An instructor opened the door to the training portal, and the trio stepped inside.
4. Artificial E-Rank Portal***
Inside was a brightly lit hall styled like a "dungeon": stone walls and a corridor leading to the end where training mannequins, programmed to react like weak goblin monsters, waited. Lee Yeon-Ah drew a pistol loaded with mana rounds from her holster, while Min-Soo activated a bracelet, from which a glowing blade emerged.
"Kang Hyun-Jun, you have the 'mana strike' skill, right?" Yeon-Ah asked.
"I…" He hesitated, realizing that this world's version of him was supposed to have something like that. But the System had told him his Mana = 0. He decided not to clarify.
"I'll manage. I'll use hand-to-hand combat."
The simulation started. Three "goblins" moved and attacked. Yeon-Ah fired her pistol, taking down one figure that sparked as it fell. Min-Soo grinned as he charged another, slicing off its "head" with his blade. The third "goblin" rushed at Kang Hyun-Jun. He tried to dodge but didn't feel the "emergency activation" he had experienced the previous day. He took a hit to his side and hissed in pain but mustered his willpower: he grabbed the "monster's" arm and struck its "throat" with his elbow. The mannequin staggered, and he finished it off with a leg sweep.
They succeeded, although the blow to his side left him in pain.
"Why are you so clumsy?" Min-Soo frowned. "It's like you haven't trained in a month."
Yeon-Ah helped Kang Hyun-Jun up.
"Never mind, at least we completed the task. You should visit the medical office to get treated."
The System blinked:
"+10 XP for completing E-Rank training portal. Current: 15/100 (Lvl. 1).
Mana – not restored. Rest or purchase a minor potion recommended."
5. Conversation With a Mentor***
As they exited the training ground, they were met by a young man, their group's mentor, Han Tae-Woo. He nodded approvingly.
"The team passed the exam. But Kang Hyun-Jun, you seem slower than usual. Health issues?"
The boy shrugged.
"Yeah, maybe I've been a bit under the weather."
The mentor suggested an individual consultation. In his office, they talked:
"You used to have potential for mana techniques, but now your mana level seems to have dropped. What happened?"
Thought
(Damn, how do I explain this?)
"Um… I've been stressed, maybe overtrained. How can I recover?"
Tae-Woo nodded understandingly.
"Try a course of basic exercises. Also, if you can afford it, buy a 'Minor Mana Potion.' But they're expensive. Or ask your parents… though I know you don't like taking help from your family."
Kang Hyun-Jun gave a faint smile. His parents here probably had plenty of money, but pride wouldn't let him ask. "Apparently, the old Kang Hyun-Jun was against handouts. Well, maybe I'll have to break those habits."
6. Chance at the Notice Board***
Leaving the mentor's office, Kang Hyun-Jun noticed a board full of postings: "Hunters needed for D-portal clearing. Pay: 500 u.e. per participant," "Sparring partners wanted," and more. One ad caught his eye:
"Looking for a partner for off-campus E–D portal clearings. Loot split evenly. Need someone reliable in combat. No experience required, just don't be a coward. Contact: Kim Ha-Yun, 3rd year."
"This might be my chance to earn money and gain training," Kang Hyun-Jun thought. He wasn't ready for high ranks, but he could handle lower ones. Plus, he needed money for a mana potion. He snapped a photo of the ad with his phone.
7. Family and Dinner***
Returning home in the evening, Kang Hyun-Jun found a warm family atmosphere: his father was discussing an upcoming contract for "Magic Compressors" with a guild, while his younger brother excitedly recounted how his sports club battles were "just like being awakened."
At dinner, his father glanced at him.
"How are things at university?"
"Fine," he replied curtly.
"Have you considered joining the 'Combat Class'? You've got good potential for being awakened."
Internally, Kang Hyun-Jun flinched. "Potential, huh… Sure, I've got the System, but my Mana's at zero."
"Son," his mother added gently, "we're not pressuring you, but in our world, portals are a real source of money and influence. Don't miss your chance."
Ji-Hyun (his brother) teased,
"Yeah, otherwise you'll just be a bookworm with no skills. These days, you need personal abilities to get anywhere."
Kang Hyun-Jun silently pushed his plate away. Once again, they wanted the best for him, but it annoyed him. "Damn it… soon, I'll prove myself to all of you."
8. Searching for a Potion***
Later in his room, he searched online to find the price of a "Minor Mana Potion." The cheapest he could find was 300 u.e. (university credits? Or some internal currency?). As a student, he had nowhere near that amount. The System's shop also had potions available, but they required "points" (which he had none of) or "gold" (also zero).
Then he remembered Kim Ha-Yun's notice. "Maybe I should give it a try? I can earn a couple hundred from a joint D-portal clear. And I'll gain experience too."
Thought
(It's risky—going into a real portal when I'm barely prepared. But without fights, I won't gain points or experience. The System demands it.)
He made up his mind and messaged Kim Ha-Yun in the app.
9. Meeting Kim Ha-Yun***
The next day, after his classes, they met at the university café. Kim Ha-Yun was a short girl with cropped hair and a scar on her left cheek. She looked serious, as if she'd seen her share of battles. After greeting him, she got straight to the point:
"I need to clear a couple of E–D dungeons on the outskirts. I've got experience, but I need a partner. It's cheaper to go as a duo than hire a full squad."
"I see. I… want to earn some money too."
She sized him up.
"They say you're a second-year student with decent theory grades. But what about combat skills? Are you awakened?"
"I've got… something," he lied, trying to sound confident. "I just need practice."
Kim Ha-Yun squinted.
"Fine. E–D portals aren't too scary. But if you chicken out, I'm leaving you behind."
He nodded. "Got it. Typical mercenary." They agreed to meet on the weekend, register at a guild operator, and enter an available D-rank portal.
10. Anxious Preparation***
He had two days left before the mission. Kang Hyun-Jun decided to use them to the fullest:
He studied textbooks, trying to fill the gaps in his knowledge.Every evening, he did light strength exercises to strengthen his body.The System awarded him tiny amounts of experience for "dedication" (+1 XP for a series of exercises), bringing his total to 20/100. It felt painfully slow.
It hurt to see his family notice his efforts and nod approvingly while he still felt internal discomfort. "Why can't I just accept their support?" But when his mother brought protein bars, saying, "Son, to make training easier," a spark of resentment flared within him: "Do they think I'm weak?!"
11. Shattered Illusion of Peace***
The day of the "clear" finally arrived. That morning, he lied to his parents, saying he was going to a friend's place to study. He met Kim Ha-Yun at the guild office of "Lunar Claw." They filled out the paperwork and paid a small registration fee (just 30 u.e.) to officially register as a "two-member team" for clearing a D-portal.
"The portal's located in the Old Port. Low-rank breaches often appear there," Ha-Yun explained. "Usually, it's small monsters like goblins and wolves. But sometimes, a D-level boss shows up."
When they arrived, they saw a shimmering oval portal cordoned off by warning tape. A pair of guards nodded after checking their documents. And so, Kang Hyun-Jun's first "real" dungeon began.
12. Clearing the D-Portal: Monsters***
Inside was a dim space resembling a cave with damp walls. Faint light filtered through cracks. Kim Ha-Yun drew a short rune-etched sword. Kang Hyun-Jun held the "energy blade" he had borrowed from the guild. It activated with a button on the hilt, the blade emitting a faint vibration.
They proceeded down a corridor, hearing monster growls in the distance. The System flashed a message:
"Quest: Kill 10 D-rank monsters. Reward: +50 XP. Warning: you lack sufficient mana reserves. Avoid direct magical encounters."
Thought
(Thanks for the heads-up, System…)
Soon, two "Dark Wolves" appeared ahead, slightly larger than normal, with glowing violet eyes. Ha-Yun swiftly attacked one, expertly driving her sword into its neck. The second wolf lunged at Kang Hyun-Jun. He parried with his blade but stumbled backward. The wolf grazed his shoulder with its claws. Gritting his teeth through the pain, he thrust his blade forward—the cut was shallow, merely wounding the monster. It howled and charged again. At the last moment, Hyun-Jun raised his blade under the wolf's muzzle, slicing through its jaw. Warm, foul-smelling blood sprayed.
"Whew…" he exhaled, trembling slightly.
Ha-Yun glanced over.
"You managed. But don't let your guard down—it might get worse."
They continued, encountering small goblins and another pair of wolves. Kang Hyun-Jun grew increasingly exhausted. His clothes were drenched in sweat, his arm ached from tension. However, the System recorded:
"+5 XP for killing a wolf, +2 XP for a goblin. Current: 41/100… 48/100…"
Step by step, he felt himself inching closer to leveling up.
13. An Unexpected Boss***
Deeper in the dungeon, they entered a spacious chamber filled with rubble. Suddenly, a massive creature dropped from the vaulted ceiling: a "Lizard Spider" (according to Ha-Yun). It was D-rank but close to the upper threshold—huge body, six legs, and a toothy maw.
"Fall back!" Ha-Yun shouted. "It can spit venom!"
But the "Lizard Spider" leapt at her, grabbing her with its front legs. Ha-Yun twisted and screamed as her sword fell. Kang Hyun-Jun realized there was no time to hesitate: if his partner died, he wouldn't survive alone.
"Hey, you beast!" he charged forward, trying to distract the monster.
The creature growled and spat viscous venom. Hyun-Jun dropped to the side, narrowly avoiding it, but a drop seared his arm. "Damn it, poison!" He mustered his strength and slashed at the monster's leg, trying to sever it. Sparks flew as the blade cut through the scales. The "Lizard Spider" howled in pain and turned toward him, giving Ha-Yun a chance to grab her sword and drive it between the beast's eyes. Black blood sprayed as the creature shuddered and collapsed.
"…We did it," Ha-Yun gasped, sinking to the floor.
Hyun-Jun coughed, feeling the burn of the venom. The System reacted:
"+30 XP for defeating D-boss. Current: 78/100…
Toxic damage detected. Treatment or antidote required."
"I've got a small med kit," Ha-Yun said, noticing his darkening arm. "Hold on."
She applied an ointment with mild "anti-venom" properties and wrapped the wound with a bandage. Hyun-Jun winced but felt the sting subside.
"Thanks…" he muttered.
"You did well too," she nodded. "You distracted it, letting me land the final blow."
14. Results of the First Dungeon Clear***
After defeating the boss, they searched its lair and found several magical crystals (worth about 200 u.e. on the market) and some rare materials (Lizard Spider webbing). They agreed to split the loot evenly. Exiting the portal, they registered their results at the guild. They were issued a confirmation and paid the base reward: 200 u.e. + 100 for materials (a total of 300 u.e., split 150 each).
"Not much," Ha-Yun grumbled, "but it's still money. We could try a few more similar portals soon."
Kang Hyun-Jun felt a sense of accomplishment: he had earned his first paycheck. Additionally, the System reported progress—his experience had risen to 78/100. Just a little more, and he would reach Level 2. But his body ached, and it demanded rest.
They agreed to contact each other later and parted ways.
15. Family and a Hidden Truth***
As he returned home, Kang Hyun-Jun thought about how to explain his bruises to his family. "I'll say I played sports at the gym." But upon entering the house, he found only his father, sitting in the study and reviewing documents.
"Hey," his father said. "You're home late. Where were you?"
"Studying for an exam," he lied.
"I see… Listen, there are rumors around the city about a new gang targeting rookie awakeneds. Be careful, son."
Thought
(He's worried… He's still a father. And me?)
"I'm fine," Kang Hyun-Jun mumbled, heading to his room.
Once inside, he collapsed onto his bed. The System flickered:
"Update: Health parameters reduced by 20%. Rest required.
Quest progress: 'Kill 10 D-Rank Monsters' (7 out of 10 completed).
Current XP: 78/100."
He closed his eyes. Everything swirled in his mind: the pain in his body, the brief joy of earning money, and his overwhelming exhaustion… And the realization that he was now on a path where he would have to fight monsters and face gangs. Yet, perhaps, this was his purpose. After all, he had the ability to protect others. And who knew? Maybe this was how he would come to accept this world and his new family.
16. The Growing Conflict Within***
Over the next few days, Kang Hyun-Jun struggled with his internal conflict. He wanted to prove himself and repay his family's care, yet he felt like an impostor in this world. Despite the small victories, the gap between his current self and this "perfect life" remained daunting.
His physical injuries healed slowly, but the venom's effects lingered, leaving him slightly weaker than before. He avoided explaining his condition to his parents, deflecting their questions with vague answers about university assignments and fatigue.
The System occasionally issued minor tasks—"Study for two hours: +2 XP" or "Complete light training: +1 XP"—but these increments felt painfully slow compared to the gains from real combat.
Thought
(I can't keep hiding behind excuses. If I want to survive and grow, I have to take risks.)
17. Preparing for Another Portal***
Kang Hyun-Jun decided to contact Kim Ha-Yun again, asking if she was available for another portal clear. She agreed, mentioning that she'd found another D-rank portal nearby and planned to attempt it over the weekend.
To prepare, Hyun-Jun pushed himself harder during training, reviewing combat techniques from university materials. He also spent hours trying to understand the System's nuances, including its shop and skill allocation. Despite his efforts, his progress remained limited due to his Mana deficiency.
Thought
(If I could just level up and gain some basic abilities, things would be so much easier.)
He resolved to earn enough money for a Minor Mana Potion during the next clear. It was the first step toward building his strength and unlocking his potential.
18. A Test of Trust***
When the weekend arrived, Kang Hyun-Jun met Kim Ha-Yun at the guild office again. This time, they were better coordinated, having learned each other's strengths and weaknesses during their first clear.
The new portal was in a desolate industrial area, with faint traces of mana energy lingering in the air. Ha-Yun explained that it was a recently opened breach, likely containing wolves, goblins, or possibly a lower-tier elemental.
As they entered, the System issued a familiar warning:
"Quest: Defeat 15 D-rank monsters. Reward: +70 XP. Caution: Low Mana levels detected. Avoid prolonged encounters."
Despite the System's caution, Kang Hyun-Jun felt a surge of determination. This was his chance to prove himself—not just to Ha-Yun but to his family and, most importantly, to himself.