Chapter 23: [The Host Didn't Ask]
To be honest, when Ryuji saw Samir's face, he didn't think of the character from Wonder Woman, but rather the communications expert from G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra.
Even though that movie came out over a decade ago, Ryuji vividly recalled the smooth-talking, efficient strategist who ensured flawless communication during high-stakes missions.
In both films, Samir embodied the same clever and resourceful personality.
A follower?
This was definitely worth considering.
After all, navigating a strange world from 100 years ago was no easy task, and having a "local guide" could be invaluable.
"Hey—System, can magic be taught to others?"
The system was silent for a moment before responding, "Yes, host. But this system does not recommend doing so."
"Ah, why?"
The conversation was purely mental, so no one else noticed.
"This system prioritizes the host's privacy and security."
"That so? There must be a compromise, right?"
Ryuji was still adjusting to his new life in this world. Despite his growing power, he considered himself a decent person at heart. The thought of deceiving Samir into lifelong servitude felt wrong.
Sure, he could exploit Samir's fascination with magic, but Ryuji still clung to the belief that hard work should pay off.
"It is recommended that the host only teach magic to followers with a loyalty score of 90 or higher."
"Ninety?"
"Yes, host. Any loyalty score below 90 carries the risk of betrayal. A follower with a score of 90 or higher will not betray unless under the influence of a powerful external force."
"Okay… how do I check loyalty levels?"
"The host earned 326 talent points today from eliminating 42 German soldiers, including two sergeants. Talent points are sufficient to purchase [Eye of Reality] from the Magic Classification section of the shop."
Ryuji didn't immediately purchase the spell but instead asked curiously, "How do you determine skill levels?"
"Talent levels are ranked as follows: Cannon Fodder → Mortal → Elite → Hero → Legend → Demigod → God.
So, essentially: beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert, and master sorts of, huh!?
Since most of the day's combat involved rifles, it made sense that [Rifle: Elite] appeared in his talents—likely from one of the two sergeants he took down.
While Ryuji was lost in thought, Samir remained kneeling, his heart racing. He was terrified of rejection.
Having glimpsed the mysteries of magic, he couldn't imagine returning to an ordinary life. To him, being denied was worse than death.
Meanwhile, Ryuji found [Eye of Reality] in the system shop. Its uses intrigued him—not just seeing loyalty levels but also spotting enemy disguises and weaknesses.
The cost? A whopping 300 talent points.
"System, why are mall spells so expensive?"
"The host's innate magical talents are passive and grow with experience. However, spells purchased from the mall require talent points to level up. Additionally, purchased spells are fixed at the host's current rank upon acquisition."
"So, if I buy a spell now, it won't grow with me like my innate abilities?"
"Yes, host. As a reminder, strength levels progress as follows: Cannon Fodder → Mortal → Elite → Hero → Legend → Demigod → Main God. Since the host is currently at the Hero rank, the spell's strength corresponds to your level."
"System, you scammed me!"
"The host didn't ask."
Ryuji groaned internally. He couldn't deny that [Eye of Reality] was useful, even if it didn't have certain... other features he was hoping for.
Still, it would help him avoid betrayal.
After activating [Eye of Reality], Ryuji scanned Samir and saw a loyalty score of 60%.
It wasn't bad for a first meeting, but it was far from ideal.
Ryuji glanced at Diana and asked, "What do you think? Should I accept him?"
All eyes turned to them.
Everyone around the campfire had been watching Samir's dramatic display of loyalty. Even in a world shifting toward modernity, the old traditions of knighthood and sworn followers still resonated.
Samir's heart pounded as he turned to Diana, silently begging for her approval.
"Why are you asking me?" Diana seemed puzzled.
"Well, I'm not from here. I don't know much about your customs. I thought you might have some advice," Ryuji replied with a smile.
Samir suddenly realized the issue: Ryuji wasn't European. This was a magician from the East, and there was clearly a cultural gap.
Diana considered for a moment before nodding. "I think you can accept him as a follower."
"Alright," Ryuji said. "Since Diana thinks it's a good idea, I'll accept you."
"Thank you! Thank you!" Samir exclaimed, bowing repeatedly in gratitude.
"Hold on. Don't get too excited yet," Ryuji said coldly. "Becoming my follower comes with responsibilities. If you betray me…"
His sharp gaze sent a chill down Samir's spine.
"I understand!" Samir stammered. "I swear—"
"Enough with the swearing," Ryuji interrupted. "Whether you learn magic depends on rigorous testing. If you fail, you may never practice magic in your life. Are you sure you won't regret this?"
"I won't regret it!" Samir said firmly.
"Alright. This is your initiation as a registered apprentice. For now, you're on probation."
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