Chapter 14: Discovering The Origins of this App!
Part 1
After dealing with Dust, I headed back home.
"Kazuma, did you get me anything from work?"
Aqua said, looking up from her usual spot on the couch.
After she got home from Yunyun's place, this girl probably didn't move an inch from the couch, sitting down and watching TV all day.
What a lazy bum…
"Next time, text me if you want me to get you something."
"You should buy me stuff even without me having to tell you!"
How demanding.
"...And here I was thinking I'd reward Kazuma tonight."
"I'll run back to the store now."
"I was just joking. Don't actually run out."
Aqua stopped me as I was about to head out the door.
"You were joking about the reward, or…?"
"Kazuma, you're kind of simple minded at times, aren't you?"
When it comes to lewd things, all guys become like that.
While I wanted nothing more than to just fool around with Aqua right away, I still had to bathe and do my homework.
The only part I missed about my NEET days was the lack of routines I had to keep, just to live normally.
I didn't even need to bathe everyday back then.
Sometimes, I didn't even have to leave my room, as a tray of food would magically appear outside my door.
Not to mention the gamer bottles I used during long raids.
After getting out of the bath, I headed to my room and started to do my homework.
It took me a few hours to complete. When I was done, I went to my bed and laid down, scrolling on my phone to look at any interesting news.
That was when I saw some people in forums posting sightings of Beldia.
A real dullahan spotted in real life! This is nuts!
Huh? It's obvious this is photoshop. It's not even that good. I can do a better job in five minutes.
…No, I think this is real. The government is just trying to cover it up, but they can't hide the SCPs forever!
It seems that with Beldia moving around, even the public was starting to catch on.
I hoped that this didn't become any more complicated than it needed to be…
While concerned about normal people spotting Beldia, Aqua opened my door and came in.
"Sup."
She had taken a bath as well and was wearing a loose shirt and some short shorts.
With the temperature getting hotter, she had taken to wearing looser clothing and shorts.
I approve of this look.
Even though this wasn't the first time she came to my room to fool around, I couldn't help but feel my heart race in my chest.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I was a NEET just a mere month ago.
Things like having a hot girl come to my bed to make out with me every night seemed like a ridiculous concept I'd find in some porno.
And yet it was reality…
"Kazuma… You always make a face like you're in shock whenever I visit you at night… Well, not like I can blame you! Why don't you join the Axis-cult already? I can give you a high-ranking position if you join! You'll have to worship me 24/7, of course!"
"I refuse."
"Che…"
There must be something wrong with me, because even our usual arguments didn't irritate me as much as it used to.
It was fun, bantering with Aqua, even if most of our conversations didn't go anywhere or accomplish anything.
She joined me on the bed, sneering as she drew close, her face inches from mine.
Our lips drawing close to each other, they met in a soft, lingering kiss.
"...? Kazuma, you made sure to take a bath, right?"
"Eh? Ah, yeah…"
"Are you sure…? There's kind of a lingering smell… Wait, doesn't this smell like the devil from before?"
With our close proximity, Aqua started sniffing me.
"...Hmm… Must be my imagination."
I sighed in relief. It was a good thing Aqua didn't smell me this morning, or the smell would have been stronger.
I had to be careful the next time I met up with Vanir…
Or visited the Succubus Shop.
Eager to change the subject, I grinned and said,
"Was Aqua just looking for an excuse to smell me?"
"We use the same products, so we smell the same. What's the point of doing that?"
How unromantic.
Well, we were just doing this for fun, anyway.
…If Aqua and I actually started dating, did that mean that we'd have to act like couples?
Complimenting each other and constantly flirting…
Well, I suppose we already did a bit of that, but not to the extent that couples did.
She leaned in for another kiss, which I happily reciprocated.
I figured that the action would slow down compared to previous times, but our kissing started to pick up pace as we got into it.
A flurry of quick kisses soon turned to deep ones, as our tongues lapped over each other's, fighting for supremacy.
It always turns into a competition, even when it comes to making out. Aqua let out an annoyed grunt when I managed to wrestle her tongue down with mine, as I gripped her shoulders.
She fought back, putting her hands on my chest and pushing as her tongue slipped back up, pressing my tongue down.
This back and forth continued, until I felt a weight on my lap.
Somehow, Aqua ended up straddling my lap.
I shuddered, feeling her heat and weight dangerously near a particularly dangerous area.
…And of course, this son of mine was excited by all this, hardening up from the close proximity.
She leaned back, watching my expression with a coy grin.
I couldn't help but glance away.
"...Kazuma's kinda cute. Kinda."
"You didn't have to say 'kinda' twice."
"You can touch me a little bit more, you know?"
Her husky voice close to my ears startled me.
I weakly nodded and brought my hands down from her shoulders, feeling her torso through her loose shirt.
She let out a low hum as I ran my hands along her body, even going down to her waist.
I hesitated for a moment, until I let my hands go down even more.
Until I started to feel the beginnings of her butt.
I waited for her to complain, but she didn't. Instead, she kissed me again, letting her tongue slip past my lips once more.
Taking that as permission, I let my hands drift down her butt, feeling it up through her shorts.
At first, I caressed them softly, feeling their shape, not knowing how much I could actually do. When she didn't complain, I started gently cupping her bum, feeling more of their shape.
With her on my lap, straddling me, I was making out with Aqua while groping her ass.
…At this point, I was hard as hell.
It was actually almost uncomfortable, how stiff I felt in my own shorts.
I almost wanted her to grind against me, even if just a little bit, but I didn't know how to bring it up.
When we finished, she left the room to go back to her own…
I took out a bottle of lotion and a tissue box and went to work.
Part 2
The next morning, as I was leaving my house…
"It is I… Vanir…!"
A suspicious guy in a mask, wearing a tuxedo, was waiting for me outside my house.
"Oi… Don't wait for me outside my house. Aqua might find you."
"Ah… That goddess… Hmm… Speaking of that goddess, it seems you have quite an interesting relationship with her…"
"Stop reading my mind!"
He followed me when I led him away from the house.
I wasn't going to underestimate Aqua's sharp nose this time.
"So? What did you want?"
I asked Vanir, as he was following me.
"The plan to infiltrate the dungeon, I want to do that today."
While Vanir was confident that he could take on the dungeon, he still needed my help to infiltrate it, as only app-users could get in.
"I must say, your plan to have me enter the dungeon is quite creative, boy…"
"I told you to stop reading my mind."
Since Vanir could read my mind, he already knew about my plan on how to get him inside.
"Say… Can Vanir really take on that dungeon? It's created by the goddesses, after all."
"That's why I'm confident I can take it on. Goddesses normally can't interfere too much with the mortal realm, and even if they're naughty rule breakers, they won't have their full power if they walk among the mortals. I would still say that Liches and high-level Arch-Wizards are more of a threat than any goddesses that might guard that dungeon…"
"...I'm pretty sure that the goddess I have in my house is at full-power, though. Or close to it, at least."
"Your goddess is useless."
"Can't argue with that."
Vanir didn't view Aqua as a threat at all.
"By the way, Vanir, where are you staying right now?"
"Oh? Are you worried about my well-being?"
"You already know I don't."
"...What a rude child. I am currently staying at the place where my colleague works… The one I mentioned before."
"Eh? Where is it?"
"I believe you've already met her."
I immediately made the connection. He was talking about Wiz.
"Wait… If Vanir is acquainted with a Lich, can't you just have her build a dungeon?"
"...Aside from tremendous amounts of mana required, one also needs expensive materials to cast the [Create Dungeon] spell. Need I say more?"
"Ah, I get it."
In other words, Wiz was too broke.
And apparently, Vanir was too.
"How much do you need, anyway?"
"In your country's currency… I'd say 50,000,000,000 yen… Wait, where are you going?"
"...Ah, sorry. I instinctively felt like running away from you."
What a scary amount.
When I slowed my pace down, Vanir caught up to me with his long strides. He said,
"Ah… I didn't bring this up yet, but this is quite important…"
"What is it?"
"Aside from my mind reading powers, I can also see the future…"
"That's way too important to not mention!"
I turned around and looked at Vanir in shock.
"Wait… So how were you not able to read my moves in our fight?"
Was he really just messing around?
"The future isn't linear. There are many paths and outcomes. As a result of this non-linear time, there are even other worlds that exist away from ours, which form the infinite multiverse…"
"...Can you not confirm the multiverse theory so casually to me?"
I was just on my way to school, and this all-seeing devil was nonchalantly unraveling the secrets of the universe to me.
"Aren't you interested to hear this? I figured you humans would show more interest…"
"Well, I guess I am interested. So, what separates our universe from the other ones?"
"For one thing, in this universe, I don't use a distinct speech pattern where I regularly say things like 'moi' and 'thou'..."
"What a minor difference!"
"Also, in the other universes, there's no such thing as the dungeon and app system in your world. The Demon King is soundly defeated in the other world, and the Demon King army never discovers how to create portals that connect to your world."
"Start with that first…"
"...And the one to defeat the Demon King is a party led by you, a hero who died in this world and reincarnated in the other world…"
"...Start with that first!"
I was getting tired of this devil dropping these bombshells on me out of nowhere. I said,
"You're telling me that in another universe, I reincarnated to another world and defeated the Demon King?"
"Indeed! And your party mates are that useless goddess of water you secretly make out with, the haughty Crimson Demon girl who is obsessed with Explosion magic, and that perverted Crusader who has masochistic tendencies…"
Those girls follow me around even in another universe, huh?
"...I'm actually some badass hero who is already predetermined to beat the Demon King?"
"You're not predetermined to do anything. That's not how this works. If you just continue to flirt with girls and do nothing else, you won't accomplish anything."
That ability of his to read my mind was really pissing me off.
"...If you know this much, then just tell me what to do from here on out. You don't want the Demon King to actually wipe out humanity, right? You want to use humanity to feed on their negative emotions…"
"Ehe… W-Well, ideally I'd like that…"
Why was he acting shy all of a sudden?
"As for me telling you what happens in the future, boy, I can't do that."
"You want money, or something?"
"...I do want money, but that's not the point. It has more to do with the fact that telling you what will happen in the future will make it so that the outcome will change anyway. The most I can give you is some vague hints about what to do, to guide you along."
"Wait… Isn't telling me all this going to change the future a lot? I mean, if I know that other versions of me in the multiverse have defeated the Demon King…"
"I didn't tell you how or when you'll defeat the Demon King, so nothing will change. Besides, there are many people who have the potential to save the world, not just you. There's infinite possibilities, after all…"
That made sense, in a way.
"...Aside from that, what other worlds are out there? I'm curious to know what my counterparts got up to."
"Hmm… Well, there's one where you defeated the Demon King faster than expected."
"Oh! I must have lived a leisurely life after I did that, huh?"
"No, actually, that just made things way more complicated than it had to be."
I can't catch a break even in worlds where I win, huh?
"...B-By the way, Vanir… Do I end up with any of the girls in the other worlds?"
"Telling you that will change the future too much…"
"Oh, come on… It won't hurt, right? Ah, just tell me which girl I end up with the most in other worlds…"
"That would have to be the explosive brat."
"Eh? Seriously?"
Megumin is really the girl that I end up with in most worlds?
"Ah…! The future is changing! Maybe I should delete your memories…"
"[Escape]."
I ran away before I could find out what Vanir meant by that.
Part 3
During class, I overheard my classmates talking.
"Did you see that thing on the internet? You think it's real?"
"Come on, man. It's obviously a hoax. I mean, a Dullahan walking around? What is this, some kinda video game?"
"I mean, it looked real…"
"That's just photoshop. You know, like how they make gravure idols' tits look bigger than they actually are."
"I told you they're not fake! I refuse to believe it!"
The guys in my class started having a meaningless conversation after talking about Beldia.
With the images going around, a lot of rumors were beginning to spread.
Of course, no one actually believed that there was a Dullahan in Japan, but if Beldia continued to make more appearances in public…
There was even a chance that the government could get involved.
As much as possible, I didn't want the Japanese government to find out.
After all, based on all the kaiju movies I saw, the military would probably take some kind of drastic action without knowing all of the facts.
They wouldn't believe that modern weaponry couldn't harm other-worlders and start launching warheads at them.
And when that didn't work, the rest of the world would declare that they'll nuke Japan in order to prevent the Demon King army from invading the rest of the world…
That's the kind of scenario that always plays out.
After classes, I went to soccer practice again.
Without Mitsurugi there, I couldn't really practice properly, since he was always the one training me.
I didn't get any stat boosts from the practice this time.
When practice was over, I quickly changed and headed over to the dungeon entrance.
Vanir was waiting by the entrance, getting lots of looks from passersby.
Not only was he tall, but he was even wearing that weird mask.
"...You're attracting too much attention."
"I don't mind at all! Rather, the feelings of shame when I catch someone staring too much at me is delicious! Ah, that girl over there is trying to sneak a picture of me…"
The girl in question flushed red and ran away in shame. Vanir laughed at that. I said,
"Seems you're having a lot of fun."
"Yes, but we still have business to take care of. We must enter the dungeon!"
I nodded and began to enact my plan to get Vanir inside.
"...Let's do this where people won't see you dissolve your body."
"I don't mind people seeing me disrobe…"
"Well, I mind!"
I led Vanir out to a corner with some privacy.
Once we were alone, he started to dissolve his own body, which was actually just made out of dirt.
All that was left was the mask.
I took out my phone and placed the mask in my inventory.
Then I headed over to the dungeon entrance again and opened the door.
I entered like normal.
Once I was inside, I took out Vanir's mask from the inventory.
He began to form his body again, using the dirt in the dungeon. He said,
"It seems like your plan worked, boy."
With his body fully-formed, he looked around at the dungeon.
"...I did this for you and all, but is Vanir actually capable of conquering this dungeon? Isn't there some insanely strong monster waiting at the end?"
"It might be strong for humans like you, but a monster is still a monster. As long as I can read their mind, I can easily predict their actions. Intelligent beings like humans and Liches are more difficult to predict, which is why I couldn't just conquer a dungeon in the other world."
It seemed that mind reading and clairvoyance was only useful if you could completely predict someone's actions, due to the infinite nature of probability.
"Alright, well then, lead the way, Vanir."
I went and equipped my gear while gesturing for Vanir to lead the way.
"...I know what you're planning, boy. I will not let you accompany me and take all the kills, so you can gain levels without having to do any work."
"Huh? Why not? As powerful as you are, don't tell me you actually need the experience points from goblins and the like…"
I was planning to have Vanir help me powerlevel as he cleared this dungeon, but he was resistant to that idea. He said,
"Like I told you before, you have a chance to defeat the Demon King. In order to do so, you need to properly learn how to fight and gain skills the natural way…"
"No, that's bullshit. Just give me a shortcut to power now."
He sighed and said,
"...Even if you gain levels, you'll just get cocky at your own power and die a stupid death. You are effective in battle because you understand your own weaknesses and you maximize your strengths. Perhaps I will help you one day, but you still need real combat experience now."
What he said made sense, in a way. Even if a newbie joins up with a veteran in an MMO and gets power leveled, once that newbie is on their own, they wouldn't know what to do and lose to weaker enemies despite having a high level.
"Fine, I get it."
"Besides, a level 5 Adventurer would just slow me down…"
"So that's the real reason!"
With a hearty laugh, Vanir started walking away, fully intent on ditching me.
As I watched him leave, I noticed a notification on my phone.
You established a bond with the Masked Devil, Vanir!
Vanir (Masked Devil), Bond Rank: 1
At Rank 1, Vanir will willingly exploit you for his own ends. He sees you as a useful pawn to further his goals. This devil is not to be trusted! This app does not approve of this bond! Please break ties with him immediately!
Was Aqua actually controlling this app?!
…Or maybe since she was the one who designed it, there was some kind of AI or program that acted like her, who was facilitating the whole thing.
I decided to ask her when I got home.
Part 4
"Hm? You mean Appuri-chan?"
This was what Aqua said when I got home and asked her about the app.
"...It actually has a name?"
I did recall Aqua calling it that some time ago.
"Do you remember the chibi version of me that plays on the loading screen? That's Appuri-chan."
I thought it was just a mascot.
"So, what is this thing exactly? And how did a dummy like you design this thing?"
"What'd you say?! You think I'm actually an idiot, huh?! Well, I'll have you know that I was able to replicate this technology perfectly from an advanced ancient civilization from the other world!"
"You just plagiarized it?!"
I should have known that Aqua didn't code this thing by herself.
"...It wasn't easy figuring out how to copy-paste the code, you know? The usual right click method didn't help… But it turns out that you can manually copy-paste things using Ctrl-C and Ctrl-V. Heh… I'm a tech genius, aren't I?"
"Let's apologize to the original developer right now."
To this developer who had their entire work copy-pasted by Aqua, I wanted to make proper amends.
"...Even if I wanted to, I can't. I said it was from an ancient civilization, didn't I? They're long gone by now."
"What kind of civilization was it?"
"It was called Norse, and they created a bunch of interesting stuff. They even made this mechanized weapon called a Mobile-Fortress Destroyer…"
"Ohh… The other world has a lot of interesting technology!"
"Well, that's only because of a reincarnated Japanese person I sent there… But he screwed up so bad that the higher ups forbade me from sending more reincarnates! But that's the exact reason why the Demon King was able to take over that world! They should have just listened to me!"
Even though it was her screw up that forced the higher ups to make that decision?
"So this Appuri-chan… What is it?"
"She's an AI, I guess? I don't really know."
I was an idiot to believe that she was actually the creator of such an advanced program.
She went on to say,
"All I know is that she didn't really have much of a personality at the start, but the more I interacted with her, the more she started to copy my personality."
That explained why the app's messages were sometimes incredibly insulting.
"So you can actually interact with this Appuri-chan?"
"Yup! There's a bypass action that lets you interact with her. It's disabled for most devices since Appuri-chan can't talk to that many people at once."
"Ah… Some kind of processing limit?"
"She's shy."
What a troublesome AI.
Since I was curious, I had Aqua put in the bypass code.
"So all you need to do is go to developer mode… Then type in this line over here… 'Aqua is super mega awesome'."
"You type it."
"No, Kazuma has to be the one to type it."
I sighed and typed the code in.
"Hehe… I was just joking. The real code is 45510."
"Stop messing with me already!"
I typed in the code while Aqua chuckled at my expense.
When I typed in the code…
The chibi Aqua from the loading screen suddenly appeared on the screen. Aqua smiled and said,
"Hey, Appuri-chan! What's up?"
The chibi Aqua blinked twice and smiled,
"Ohh! Mama! Hm? How come I'm not talking to you on your phone?"
"Kazuma over here was curious about you…"
"I see… The Shitty-NEET wants to talk to me, huh?"
As expected of an AI patterned after Aqua.
"Oww! Wait, why are you pulling my hair, Kazuma?!"
"...I can't hurt the AI, so I might as well punish its 'creator'."
Once I was done punishing Aqua, I looked at this Appuri-chan and said,
"So… You're the one who's been insulting me all this time, huh?"
"Hehe… Thanks!"
"It wasn't a compliment."
Showing animated movements, the chibi Aqua on the screen almost seemed lifelike.
Whoever actually developed this technology would have become a god amongst otaku.
After all, the ability to make waifus come to life is the philosopher's stone equivalent for otaku.
"Now that I'm active in the shitty NEET's app, should I activate voice control?"
"Hm? Voice control?"
"Yup! Normally, you have to press the buttons on the screen to access the app, right? But since I'm active now, I can hear and carry out your commands directly…"
"I see. That does sound useful."
"Ah, but I can't come out of the screen and do anything lewd for you, so let's both save ourselves from the embarrassment of you asking."
I wasn't even thinking about it. I said,
"Do you have any other useful features, Appuri-chan?"
"Hmm… Well, I can customize the app to an extent based on your preferences… Oh, I can also tell you what the weather is like outside, and I can even give you the news…"
Should we just change her name to Siri?
After hearing about the features Appuri-chan can provide, I closed the app and put the phone away.
"Fufun… Isn't my Appuri-chan helpful?"
Aqua said, seemingly proud of her 'creation'.
"...It was calling you 'mama'... Is there anything I should be worried about?"
"Hah? Obviously because I'm the one who designed her! You think I actually have kids or something?!"
"Considering how easy it is to trick Aqua…"
"I can't believe you just said that! Jerk!"
"Gah!"
She shoved me away and left my room.
Once Aqua left my room, I heard Appuri-chan's voice through the phone speaker.
"Careful, Shitty-NEET! If you do things to anger your bond companions, your bond-rank with them will decrease!"
…This voice feature might get annoying.
Part 5
With Aqua stonewalling me for the night, I had to find a way to get my fun somewhere else.
It had been a while since my last visit, so I decided to go to the Succubus Shop.
"Tsk, tsk… Mama will not like it if I tell her about this…"
I was already starting to regret activating this Appuri-chan.
"Listen, you're supposed to assist me. Not your mama. Me. And unlike your mama, I actually know a thing or two when it comes to programming, so I can erase you whenever I want!"
"...! Since you're a NEET who spent all that time with a computer, your threat is actually scary?! I'm sorry, I'll behave! Wait, why did your 'Cunning' just increase by +1…? Oi! You tried to trick me!"
Since it could see my stat increases, it could tell that I was lying. I said,
"In any case, it's not a good idea to cross me, so keep the fact that I'm here a secret from your mama!"
While I was yelling at my phone and saying these things aloud in the red-light district, I got a bunch of bad looks from the women who heard me.
After I got Appuri-chan to behave, I entered the Succubus Store.
Dust wasn't there this time, likely because he couldn't afford to visit often.
Even though the ticket was only 1,000 yen.
"Welcome to the Succubus Shop! Ah, it's Kazuma-san! Your personal succubus will meet with you shortly!"
Due to the debacle last time, they assigned Rorisa as my personal succubus.
I have a personal succubus, huh?
…That sounds really erotic.
They led me to the same break room as last time as I waited for Rorisa.
After a few minutes of waiting, the door opened and Rorisa came in.
"Sorry to keep you waiting! I'm glad to see you again, Kazuma-san!"
She smiled happily upon seeing me and entered the room.
Even though she's a devil, Rorisa is a friendly and wholesome girl.
"I did promise to visit again! So, about tonight's request…"
"Ah, please fill in this request sheet!"
As I took the request sheet, I thought about what to order.
A popular idol? An actress or a beautiful weather reporter? Maybe even a seasonal waifu bait… There were so many options.
While I was thinking about what to request, I heard a commotion outside.
"Kyaa~?! Vanir-sama?! Is that the real Vanir-sama?!"
I heard that name again, in a place I didn't expect.
I ignored the commotion and wrote down the name of an up-and-coming idol named Lia on the request sheet, but as I was about to hand it over to Rorisa…
"...?! Vanir-sama?! The real Vanir-sama is here?! Sorry, Kazuma-san… I need to go!"
"Eh?! What about my request for an idol?!"
Rorisa ignored me and rushed out of the room.
I should have taken care of that masked freak when I had a chance…!
After leaving the room, I saw all the succubi gathering around Vanir.
"Moihahaha! It is I, the Arch-Duke Vanir! If you all want a signed picture of my real body… I will only charge you for the low price of 3,000 yen!"
This guy was already making moves, huh?
What an expensive price for such a lousy picture!
I noticed that a lot of customers were abandoned as the succubi left their post to go over to Vanir. I went over to them and said,
"Oi… You're disrupting business here!"
"Ah… If it isn't the boy who went to this place, because he couldn't get any action from that goddess playmate of his… The negative emotions coming out of you and the rest of the disappointed customers are truly a treat!"
So this was the real reason why he did this?
"Aren't you supposed to be conquering the dungeon? Don't tell me that you've already managed to conquer it…"
"...Well, there's a minor inconvenience. I came across a rather annoying individual who recognized that I was a Devil. She might be a goddess if she noticed my devilish aura…"
"Eh? But Aqua doesn't leave the house on her own."
"I'm not talking about that unreliable goddess that watches TV all day in your house. It's another one…"
There was another goddess that's walking around outside of the heavenly realm?
Was it that Wolbach that Megumin was talking about?
"What did this goddess look like?"
"...She was wearing a mask, but she had silver hair. She also fought like a thief."
A thief with silver hair?
I knew someone like that, but there was no way that she was a goddess. I said,
"Hold on, you said that you were confident that you could take on a goddess if they have a human body, since that'll mean that they're weaker than their true form…"
"That's true, but it seems that this particular goddess lucked upon a very rare magic dagger that is effective against undead, demons and devils like myself… That is why she's a hindrance."
"...And is that why you're out here scamming these succubi?"
Since he couldn't conquer the dungeon as easily as he expected, he came over here to gather funds to build a dungeon himself.
"Indeed! Although, it's not a scam at all! It really is a picture of my real body! Do you want to buy a copy?"
"Hell no."
I had no interest in such a thing.
While the succubi were forming a line, I noticed Rorisa in the line. I went over and said,
"Oi, is this guy really such a big shot that you're all fangirling over him?"
She nodded her head enthusiastically and said,
"All of us lesser devils adore Vanir-sama, who is an Arch-Duke back in Hell! Getting an opportunity to see Vanir-sama's real body is a treat for us!"
He's like a celebrity for lesser devils, then.
"...Um, about Kazuma-san's appointment… I'm sorry! Please let me reschedule it for another time!"
I was a bit annoyed that I couldn't get the dream service, but I couldn't get mad if she gave such a genuine apology.
"It's fine, it's fine. Go ahead and have fun…"
"...! Thank you for understanding!"
I smiled at Rorisa and left the store, as the succubi continued to give praise to Vanir.
Even though he was just an annoying masked bastard…
"Shitty-NEET! Your bond with that evil succubus just increased! I should really tell mama about this! You cheater!"
"I'm not cheating! I'm not even dating your mama, anyway!"
"...Why not? My mama is such a catch, you know? Anyway, here is the update to your bond status!"
Rorisa (Rookie Succubus), Bond Rank: 2
At Rank 2, Rorisa will see you as an understanding customer who allowed her to meet her idol, the Arch-Duke Vanir. Unlike the other customers who she only serves out of obligation, she's beginning to see you as a customer she looks forward to seeing. Treating her nicely when you come over will increase your bond with her.
Bond Reward: +5 Charisma
As expected of a succubus, she gave me an increase in 'Charisma'.
…That was even more incentive for me to visit the Succubus Shop.
Part 6
With the night coming to a fruitless end, I went back home.
After going to sleep after I got blue balled, I woke up the next morning with an insane morning wood.
"Shit…!"
After experiencing some post-nut clarity, I thought about whether I should go to school or not.
Going to school on a Saturday when I had the option to take a day off…
The only reason I'd go is to get that limited-time sandwich.
The one that gave an EXP bonus for an hour, and also sold for 10,000 yen…
"Hah…"
Even though I didn't want to, I forced myself to get out of bed.
On my way to school, Rin walked over to me when she saw me.
"Oh, senpai! You're coming to school on Saturday again! Is your health improving?"
"Ah… Something like that."
"That's good, but don't force yourself, senpai…"
Since I used the excuse of my poor health to skip school, Rin got worried for no reason.
Feeling a bit guilty, I said,
"So, we're going swimming tomorrow, right?"
"Yup! I'm really looking forward to it! I went ahead and bought a new swimsuit like I said…"
A girl buying a new swimsuit just for a pool date with me…
"Eh? Senpai… Why are you tearing up?!"
I got so moved that I almost cried.
After parting ways with Rin, I headed over to class.
Since it was the last class of the month, I made sure to pay more attention than usual since I wanted that bonus…
During the break, I went to the cafeteria right away for that sandwich.
On the way there…
"Congratulations, Shitty-Neet! You somehow survived an entire month studying instead of playing video games all day! As a reward, your 'Intelligence' and 'Willpower' has increased by +5!"
It wasn't bad but…
Was it really worth the wait for the +5 bonus?!
"Oi, Appuri-chan… Can't you give me more than that?"
"...How many times must this concept need to be explained to you, Shitty-NEET? The stat increases are just a reflection of your own growth. Maybe if you stopped skipping classes, the end of month reward for studying will increase!"
So it was like that.
I thought that I was doing well, but it seemed that I was still cutting corners in the end.
"Hah… So are you telling me if I work hard, my abilities will increase a lot?"
"Have you finally figured out how life works, Shitty-NEET?"
This AI brat…!
I had to deal with Aqua's snarkiness at home, and I also had a little pocket Aqua insulting me throughout the day?!
I really should just disable this feature!
While gritting my teeth, I said,
"...You say that it'll improve, but how come my stats don't grow when I actually do awesome things, like fighting Vanir? My 'Bravery' should have improved, at least!"
"Huh? But you weren't even in any danger while facing that devil…"
"He was holding back that much?!"
There goes my self-esteem.
"If the Shitty-NEET wants to see true growth, then run until you're exhausted! Maybe then your 'Stamina' stats will increase along with your 'Speed'! If you want your 'Strength' to improve a lot, then get a gym membership and lift some weights! If you want your 'Intelligence' to actually improve, then maybe go to cram school or get tutoring from an older student!"
"That sounds like a hassle."
"Then don't complain if your stats don't grow!"
When I got to the cafeteria, I paid 350 yen for a mystery sandwich.
Of course, thanks to my godly luck, I got the rare sandwich without much hassle.
I immediately sold it for 10,000 yen.
"And you wonder why you never get stronger… You should have saved it to grind levels in the dungeon!"
"Shut up! You're an AI and you don't have any bodily needs! I need this!"
"...You're living with your parents and you're a citizen of a first-world country. What do you need more money for? You're gonna spend it in that den of sinners you visited last night?"
"Alright. You're muted until the end of the school day."
I had enough and muted that annoying AI.
Still, she raised a good point.
I wasn't really working as hard as I could.
My extremely low 'Potential' was probably also capping my growth.
I thought that I might have a chance since I beat Vanir, but it really seems like he was never a threat to me in the first place.
Against a Dullahan like Beldia…
Should I even bother trying to help fight that thing?
I fought Vanir because I thought that I was protecting everyone.
Also, if Beldia wasn't an immediate threat to the people I knew, then what was the point in fighting him?
…How exactly did the other universe versions of me defeat the Demon King?!
They must have used some kind of sneaky, scumbag method.
Part 7
When I went to soccer practice, Mitsurugi wasn't there again.
He was probably going to come back next week, though.
Even then, with the extent of the injuries he had, it was still suspicious if he returned that quickly.
Aqua's healing magic was far and beyond modern medicine, after all.
"Alright, boys! I want to see some hustle!"
The coach cheered us on, telling us to work harder.
…Should I work harder?
All my life, I hadn't put much effort into anything besides video games.
I'd always fall into a cycle of having lots of motivation to try out a new thing, only to quit if I felt too burnt out, or if I ran out of motivation.
I guess successful people end up that way because they can push past that barrier.
…Defeating a Dullahan, defeating the Demon king.
Those goals seemed impossible for a normal guy like myself, to the extent that I doubted if Vanir was telling the truth about those multiversal versions of me doing it.
Or maybe those versions of me were born with more talent, or had some kind of OP artifact or weapon helping them on their quest.
"..."
We were lined up on the field, taking turns doing dashes.
"Alright, Satou-kun, it's your turn…!"
Trying hard, only to fail. Making mistakes over and over. Pushing past your limits…
Those cliche tropes you'd find in typical shounen battle manga seemed so lame to me.
Even in those kinds of manga, the lazy genius archetype appealed to me more.
Those guys who didn't need to do anything. They win just because of their intellect and because the villains instantly take a -1000 IQ nerf when facing them, to showcase how smart the character is.
I took a deep breath, then dashed forward.
"Ohh…?!"
Trying hard, only to fail.
Making mistakes over and over.
Pushing past your limits…
"Gahhh…!"
I ran the hardest I ever had in my life.
"Satou-kun! What came over you?!"
After the dash, I was panting so hard that I tasted blood in the back of my throat.
This is goddamn awful!
Why do people subject themselves to this torture?!
What's the point?!
"Next we're doing some finishing practice! Everyone, line up!"
I stood up, catching my breath.
I ran up to kick the ball, putting more force into it than I normally would.
"Pffft…!"
My teammates couldn't help but laugh when the ball sailed over the goalpost.
"Um… It's fine! You can try again next time… Alright, next…"
"One more time! Please!"
"Eh…?"
This is so freaking embarrassing.
The next shot hit the corner of the goal, bouncing out.
This time, my teammates didn't laugh, though.
"Go again, Satou…!"
"Keep going until you make it!"
"Try using the inside of your foot more!"
What is this, some kind of sports manga?
Am I supposed to succeed with the power of friendship?
This is so lame.
I kept kicking that damn ball. Over and over.
By the end of the practice, I couldn't even move.
"...I'm looking forward to your performance in the next game, Satou-kun."
The coach said to me, as he helped me up with a grin on his face.
"Haha…"
What's the point?
Working to the point of exhaustion…
What's the purpose of it all?
Later on, after I managed to shower and change with my body feeling all sore…
I noticed that my phone had a lot of notifications.
Forgetting that I muted Appuri-chan earlier, I unmuted her.
"Geez! Why'd you mute me for so long?!"
"...I had a lot going on, OK?"
I sighed, as I prepared to leave the changing room.
"Well… I have a lot of updates for you."
"Huh?"
"...Your 'Stamina', 'Speed', 'Dexterity', 'Health', 'Willpower', and 'Bravery' increased by +2! Good work today, Kazuma-san! I'm looking forward to seeing your growth in the future!"
Adventurer Card
Name: Satou Kazuma
Age: 16
Class: Level 5 Adventurer
Armor (Iron Breastplate): +5 physical reduction
Health Points: 59/59
Mana Points: 45/45
Stamina Points: 52/52
Exp: 0/200
Money: 17,650 yen
Stats:
Physical:
Strength 56, Stamina 54, Speed 54, Dexterity 59, Health 59, Attractiveness 52
Mental:
Intelligence 68, Intuition 65, Creativity 67, Faith 45, Magic Power 47, Mana Capacity 45
Intangibles:
Charisma 40, Willpower 35, Potential 10, Cunning 80, Bravery 33, Luck 90
Skills:
[Improvised Weapon] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are proficient in using improvised weapons. Ordinary items that haven't been previously equipped deal +1 more damage than they usually would.
[One-handed Sword] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are proficient in using swords that require one hand to wield. You gain +10% weapon accuracy with attacks using one-handed swords.
[Enemy Detection] Skill Rank: 5 (MAX), Passive Skill
You can focus your senses to detect enemies within a 25 foot radius around you. Your 'Intuition' score (65) will go up against the enemy creature's 'Cunning' score when determining if the enemy creature is detected by you. If there is more than one enemy detected by this skill, you can determine the exact number. You can determine the threat level of enemy creatures.
[Lurk] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
You can hide your presence from enemies. Your 'Cunning' score (80) will compete against the enemy's 'Intuition' score to determine if the enemy creature detects you.
[Bow] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are proficient in using bows! You gain 10% weapon accuracy when using bows.
[Snipe] Skill Rank: 1, Active skill (5 mp cost)
Add your Luck modifier (90%) to Weapon Accuracy calculations involving bow-type weapons (Max total: 100%).
[Elementary Magic] Skill Rank: 3, Active skill (3 mp cost)
Unlock the ability to use the beginner magic spells [Tinder], [Create Earth], [Wind Breath], [Create Water] and [Freeze]!
[Tinder]
Shoot out a small flame from your fingertips
Spell Attack Accuracy: Intelligence modifier = 68% chance of hitting
Spell Damage: 1 Fire Damage + Magic Power (+4) = 5
Spell Effect: Summon a small flame from your finger tip. Range 4 feet (Magic Power 47).
[Create Earth]
Summon dirt in your hand.
Spell Effect: Summons 1 pound of dirt per 10 Magic Power stat points you have (4 pounds total)
[Wind Breath]
Summon a gust of wind when you exhale.
Spell effect: Objects lighter than 5 pounds can be blown away up to 1 feet per 10 Magic Power stat points you have (4 feet total)
[Create Water]
Summon water from your hand
Spell Effect: Summons 1 pound of water per 10 Magic Power stat points you have (4 pounds total). Does 2 water damage per second when in contact with Undead creatures.
[Freeze]
Freezes objects, especially water
Spell Effect: Freeze 1 pound worth of water per 10 Magic Power stat points you have (4 pounds total), halve the amount on other objects/creatures.
[Cooking] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
Cooking food ingredients dropped by monsters will give a slight increase to the bonus benefits gained when eating them.
[Nature's Beauty] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (10 mp cost)
Impress an audience with a wonderful party trick! Your 'Charisma' stat (40) will determine the effectiveness of your party trick!
[Smithing] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are proficient in creating and repairing items! The success rate of this skill is determined by your 'Creativity' (67). At Rank 1, you can create, combine and repair items of the 'Common' variety. Combining compatible items of the 'Common' variety might yield an item of 'Uncommon' variety.
[Spear] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are proficient in using spears. You gain +10% weapon accuracy with attacks using spears.
[Night Vision] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You have a 15-feet radius of night vision.
[Heat Resistance] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You can endure heat more than the average person can. When up against magical heat, the success rate of this skill is determined by your 'Willpower' (35).
[Quick-Draw] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
When you have a sheathed sword, draw it quickly to catch your opponent off guard. Use your 'Cunning' (80) against the opponent's 'Intuition' score. If the opponent is caught off guard, your attack damage will increase by +1.
[Enemy Reading] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
When facing an enemy you have encountered before, you will see their basic combat stats (Armor Score, Health Points). This information will hover above the enemy.
[Escape] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
Chance to escape hostile enemies increases by +10%. Ability to escape is determined by 'Speed' stat (54).
[Farsight] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
You can see objects and creatures 60 miles away. If your vision isn't 20/20 already, you will have perfect vision whenever this skill is activated.
[Fishing] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are now proficient in using fishing tools. Your fishing skill depends on your 'Intuition' (65) score. You can fish aquatic creatures that are ranked as 'Common'.
[Steal] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
Allows you to steal an item. If the target is a creature, you will have to be within 15 feet of the target to use this skill. Success depends on your 'Cunning' (80), contested against the target's 'Intuition'. Items that are not held or equipped by a creature can be stolen as long as you can see it and are aware of its presence. The value of the item you steal is determined by your 'Luck' (90).
[Trap Detection] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You can now sense traps within a 15 foot radius around you. Your 'Intuition' (65) score determines the success rate of discovering traps. You can only detect traps of 'Basic' make.
[Versatile Entertainer ] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
You are adept in mimicking the voice of someone you know. If you are mimicking the voice of someone you don't know, you must spend at least 15 minutes observing their speech patterns and mannerisms. Useful for making celebrity impressions.
[Signature Weapon] Skill Rank: 1, Passive Skill
Assign one of the weapons in your inventory as your 'Signature Weapon'. This weapon gains +5 durability. This weapon won't be destroyed even if it falls below 0 'Durability', but you can't use it again until you fix it.
[Lore Reading] Skill Rank: 1, Active Skill (5 mp cost)
Use your 'Intelligence' stat (68) to determine if you can learn information about a creature, object or location that you can see.
[Medium Armor], Skill Rank: 1
You are proficient in wearing Medium Armor. You no longer suffer the stealth penalty when wearing Medium Armor.
Inventory:
Hunting Shortbow (Uncommon)
Generic wooden bow used for hunting.
Ammo: 15/15 (Iron-tipped arrows)
Bow Accuracy: Dexterity modifier = 59% chance of hitting
Weapon Damage: 2 piercing damage + Dexterity modifier (+5) = 7
Sells for: 1,500 yen
Chunchunmaru (Unique) - Signature Weapon
Forged by Intermediate Blacksmith. Named by Megumin.
Durability: 16/25
Weapon Accuracy: Dexterity modifier + [One-handed Sword] = 74% chance of hitting
Weapon Damage: 3 slashing damage + Strength modifier (+5) = 8 damage
Sells for: 6,000 yen
Ghoul Claw Caltrops (Common)
Made by Satou Kazuma. Caltrops that have a Paralyzing effect that will go against the target's 'Willpower' stat (30% effective). Does 1 piercing damage to those who come in contact with it.
Durability: 4/5
Sells for: 1,500 yen
Iron Breastplate - Medium Armor (Uncommon)
Reduces incoming physical damage by 5. Applies -5 penalty to stealth related stats when sneaking.
Sells for: 7,000 yen
Service Locator - App Upgrade (Rare)
An Upgrade For This Adventuring App! Use this to find useful services and stores in your city! Sign-up for news about promotions and discounts to relevant stores!
Quests:
Go on a thirty minute jog! Quest rewards: +30 exp, +1 speed, +1 stamina (Completed!)
Go to school! Quest rewards: +30 exp, +1 knowledge, +1 Bravery (Completed!)
Kill 3 monsters in the dungeon! Quest rewards: Random loot box (Completed!)
Get the librarian on duty to recommend a book to you! Quest rewards: +30 exp, +1 Bravery, +1 Charisma (Completed!)
Join a sports club! Quest rewards: +1 in all physical stats (Completed!)
Drink an Energizing Smoothie from the train station! Quest rewards: +30 exp, +1 Stamina, +1 Charisma (Completed!)
Kill 6 monsters in the dungeon! Quest rewards: Random loot box (Completed!)
Attend soccer practice! Quest Rewards: +1 to all 'Physical' stats (Completed!)
Ask Hinamori Rin for her number! Quest Rewards: +30 exp, +1 'Charisma', +1 'Bravery' (Completed!)
Get a part-time job! Quest Rewards: Starting pay of 3,000 yen per shift! +1 Willpower, +1 Bravery per shift! Bonus rewards available according to performance during the job! (Completed!)
Play in an official soccer game! Quest Rewards: +2 to all 'Physical stats (Completed!)
Go on a date with Himamori Rin! Quest Rewards: +2 Charisma, +2 Attractiveness (Completed!)
Max out [Enemy Detection] to Rank 5! Quest Rewards: Skill-Up Potion (Completed!)
Complete the spicy curry challenge! Quest Rewards: Learn the skill [Heat Resistance] (Completed!)
Kill the second floor boss! Quest Rewards: Random Loot Box
Give Chris her panties back! Quest Rewards: +2 Speed, +2 Bravery (Completed!)
Reconcile with Aqua! Quest Rewards: +2 Faith, +2 Willpower (Completed!)
Bonds:
Satou (Family), Bond Rank: 4
At Rank 4, your family will give you some leeway as you recover from being a NEET. Your parents will give you an advance on your allowance if you continue to go to school, as promised. Your brother thinks better of you and might say a few nice things to his friends about you. If you mention wanting a non-blood related step sister again, your parents will beat you and leave you with grave injuries.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: 500 yen bonus allowance per week (total 1,000 yen). Parents will call the school and request for days off if you ask (limited once per week).
Rank 3: Kazuto won't insult you as much when you talk to him, and he will also give you lessons that raise 'Charisma' once a week.
Rank 4: Parents will give you an advance on your allowance as long as you pay it back.
Aqua (Water Goddess), Bond Rank: 6
At Rank 6, the dynamic of your relationship with Aqua has changed considerably. Are you housemates? Teammates? Perhaps something more? Tread carefully, as you are at an important crossroads in your relationship. Regardless of what happens, she sees you as an irreplaceable friend who will save her when she needs it. Since you two have been through a lot of things, she will never leave you alone.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: You learn the skill [Nature's Beauty]!
Rank 3: You learn the skill [Night Vision]!
Rank 4: +10 Faith
Rank 5: You learn the skill [Versatile Actor]!
Rank 6: +20 Faith
Hinamori Rin (Librarian on Duty), Bond Rank: 5
At Rank 5, Hinamori Rin has developed a crush on you! The way you cheered her up has tugged her heart strings! At this stage in your relationship, she won't mind even if you constantly text and call her. She'll also go on dates with you if you ask, and there might be a chance she'll even invite you inside her apartment if the date goes well. If you flirt with her, she will readily flirt back. Have fun trying to become more than friends with her!
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: +5 Mana Capacity
Rank 3: You learn the skill [Enemy Reading]!
Rank 4: +10 Mana Capacity
Rank 5: You learn the skill [Lore Reading]!
Darkness (Masochist Crusader), Bond Rank: 3
At Rank 3, Darkness views you as an equal when it comes to perverseness. She has always vowed to protect Chris from you, as she doesn't want you to do any more perverted things to Chris. She took your offer to help her complete extreme requests in the future, and is eagerly looking forward to an erotic event. More than ever, she is looking forward to you becoming the S to her M.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: +5 Health
Rank 3: You learn the skill [Medium Armor]!
Megumin (Explosion Mage), Bond Rank: 4
At Rank 4, definitely sees you as a pervert now. Not only that, you might also be a scumbag. Are you really the reliable guy she thought you were? With that said, she believes that you'll come through when it counts, like a hero. She might be developing a bit of a crush on you now… But you'll have to prove yourself! Can you become Megumin's hero? Do your best!
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: +5 Magic Power
Rank 3: Magic Skill Rank-Up
Rank 4: +10 Magic Power
Chris (Silver-haired Thief), Bond Rank: 2
At Rank 2, Chris views you as someone she can potentially confide with! Her trust in you is slowly increasing! It seems that the key to deepening a bond with her is to show her that you can get along with Darkness and the other girls!
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: You learn the [Steal] skill!
Mitsurugi Kyouya (Soccer Club Ace), Bond Rank: 4
At Rank 4, Mitsurugi Kyouya will view you as a teammate who he can rely on and talk about personal problems with. He will gladly do favors for you if you help him get closer with Aqua. He will give you tips when it comes to the dungeon if you ask, even if he's busy. Even though he thinks that you're kind of scummy, he is starting to see you as a friend that he can confide in. Staying on the soccer team and working hard in practice will deepen your bond with him.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: You learn the skill [Quick-Draw]!
Rank 3: +10 Strength
Rank 4: You learn the skill [Signature Weapon]!
Dust (The Blond Delinquent), Bond Rank: 2
At Rank 2, Dust will gather information on Beldia for you and help other app-users if they are in trouble… As long as you pay enough money! Dust views you as someone with deep pockets who he can follow around and receive money from. Be careful about being seen with him in public, as he owes the yakuza a fair bit of debt.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: +5 Dexterity
Rorisa (Rookie Succubus), Bond Rank: 2
At Rank 2, Rorisa will see you as an understanding customer who allowed her to meet her idol, the Arch-Duke Vanir. Unlike the other customers who she only serves out of obligation, she's beginning to see you as a customer she looks forward to seeing. Treating her nicely when you come over will increase your bond with her.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: +5 Charisma
Wiz (Lich Shopkeeper), Bond Rank: 1
At Rank 1, Wiz sees you as a cheap customer who doesn't buy any of her items. While she is grateful for the tip, and you helping her feed herself, she wishes that you will actually buy the items from her shop. Shopping in the store will deepen your bond with her.
Yunyun (Lonely Stalker), Bond Rank: 2
At Rank 2, Yunyun already sees you as her first male best friend. She thinks that you're the kindest guy she's interacted with. That said, aside from her dad, you're the only boy close to her age she's talked to.
Bond Rewards:
Rank 2: You learn the skill [Monster Talk]!
Vanir (Masked Devil), Bond Rank: 1
At Rank 1, Vanir will willingly exploit you for his own ends. He sees you as a useful pawn to further his goals. This devil is not to be trusted! This app does not approve of this bond! Please break ties with him immediately!