2: The First Round of the Game Begins!

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In this world, the path of magic is divided into many ranks. The common folk, often referred to as Mortals, are not entirely powerless. With dedication and perseverance, they can strengthen their bodies, becoming Stalwarts—an ascension with nine distinct sub-levels. Achieving the ninth level grants them immense physical strength, making them nearly invulnerable to mundane weapons. Among mortals, those at the top of this hierarchy can even rise to positions of leadership.

However, those who surpass the ninth level of Stalwart are known as Mages. Despite a Stalwart's formidable strength, they remain merely mortals, relying on brute force alone. Once a person becomes a Mage Practitioner, the game shifts entirely.

A Mage is capable of manipulating the elements, soaring through the skies, conjuring fire, and even assaulting the very souls of their enemies—effortlessly annihilating Stalwarts from a distance. Such power is almost divine to the mortals. To them, attaining Mage Practitioner status is to step into a realm of near invincibility.

At present, Elvynna is a Master Mage Practitioner, while Eirik, the ordinary citizen, has not even reached Stalwart Level 1. Yet this man, still in the early stages of his journey, dares to seek out a "magic scholar," his audacity piquing Elvynna's curiosity. She quickly reviews his profile.

[Name: Eirik]
[Race: Human]
[Rank: Ordinary Person]
[Profession: Unemployed Citizen]
[Achievements: None]
[Talent: Unable to learn magic (White)]
[Talent: Perspective and insights from another world lead to unexpected choices (Purple)]
[Talent: Naturally attracts elemental forces, bringing peace and longevity to those around him. Mages near him gain enhanced magical speed and energy absorption (Gold)]

"Elvynna blinked in astonishment. This ordinary man can attract elemental forces?"

A mix of excitement and regret stirred within her. If only Eirik could harness this talent to learn magic—he could have been a true prodigy! But even so, she realized, if she kept him near, her own magical studies would progress faster. It was as if meeting him had been a stroke of luck—a boon. She quickly decided to make him her attendant.

[Congratulations, you have unlocked a new identity: Magic Scholar's Attendant]

When Eirik saw the notification appear, his heart surged with joy. Yes! The first step in winning over my future wife has been a success! Below the message, an image of him now appeared, his appearance more refined, dressed in elegant attire that made him look noble.

"Now this is more like it. Much better than those rags I wore before," Eirik mused, admiring his new look.

Soon, he realized that being the Magic Scholar's attendant was incredibly easy. His only task was to observe Elvynna as she studied magic, or simply to lounge about and occasionally nap. She was lenient with him, never demanding much, and every month, he received a generous salary—far more than a brothel star could ever earn. In terms of his past life, it was like receiving $100,000 a month.

"Wait a minute, have I struck it rich with a wealthy woman? Well, if I'm being honest, I'd be fine just keeping her company or sharing a bed. Not doing anything feels a bit like I'm cheating."

But then, remembering this was just a game, he laughed. Not only will I enjoy her wealth, but I'll also have fun teasing her! Living off someone is better than I expected!

Of course, as someone experienced in simulation games, Eirik knew not to be overly forward. As an ordinary person, he could not afford to be too aggressive.

He needed to build affection first—gifts, small acts of kindness. That way, he could move smoothly to the next phase.

Meanwhile, Elvynna, seated in her study, frowned. She could sense that this game character seemed to have ulterior motives. But when it came to romance, she was entirely disinterested, her mind wholly absorbed in studying magic. She decided to ignore the feeling.

It wasn't long before a message caught her attention.

[After three years of diligent study, your power has surged, reaching Level 2 as a Mage Practitioner. Your elemental energy has become highly concentrated, and you've successfully advanced! Your revelation is...]

"Three years, and I've already reached Level 2?"

Elvynna's brow furrowed in surprise. Based on her original estimations, it should have taken her six, perhaps even ten years, to break through to the second level. Yet, in the game, it only took three years? This man named Eirik was certainly proving useful.

What was even more remarkable was the clarity she gained from the insights provided by the game. It was as if the wisdom contained within the game's narrative shed light on some of her previously difficult studies, offering a profound sense of enlightenment.

"This isn't just an ordinary game—this is predicting the future, a form of prophecy... or maybe something even more advanced!"

Her pulse quickened as she clenched her fists. She had a feeling that this could be a monumental opportunity—one that could change the course of her magical journey. Where else could she find such detailed prophetic insights?

"Interesting. I'll continue my studies," she decided.

She opened the game menu and selected the option for more focused study. She had no intention of going out, not when such a wealth of magical knowledge was within her grasp.

Elvynna's refusal to go out left Eirik feeling slightly dejected. "My wife is quite the homebody," he thought, "She never wants to leave the house!"

Of course, though she rejected his companionship, he could still venture outside on his own. But the system warned that leaving the vicinity would reduce her affection for him.

"Fine, I'll stay. I'm here to maximize my experience. I'll stick with you, Elvynna, until your fondness for me reaches its peak!"

Eirik chuckled to himself, preparing for his next charm offensive. And so, five more years passed.

In the close quarters of this man and woman, Eirik often showered her with flattery. He couldn't help but wonder if even the coldest hearts would eventually soften. Yet, Elvynna's icy demeanor remained, her focus on magic unyielding. Could it be that the magic she studies is some form of Iron Maiden magic?!

Still, Eirik was making progress. Their relationship had grown steadily, moving from that of strangers to something resembling close acquaintances. Yet, her cool and distant nature made it difficult for him to close the gap. Nevertheless, Eirik felt optimistic—he was sure that, in time, they would move from acquaintances to something more.

[Elvynna's strength has skyrocketed, earning her a top-three finish in the academy's magical competition. Her accomplishments have gained widespread recognition.]

[Due to her success, she has attracted the attention of envious rivals. But her proud nature leads her to ignore them.]

[Rumors about you and Elvynna have begun to spread, as others discover that you've been staying at her residence.]

[A younger student from Starlight Academy of Magic, Pixie Ravenshadow, has noticed your unique qualities and offers 300 Elemental Stones to purchase you.]

What was this? They want to buy me for 300 Elemental Stones?! Am I being treated as a commodity now?

But Pixie Ravenshadow, a younger student from the academy, was undeniably beautiful—her lively demeanor and sparkling eyes stood in stark contrast to Elvynna's cold, noble elegance. Pixie was certainly Eirik's type, coming in a close second after Elvynna.

[Elvynna, with grace, states that she respects your wishes. If you choose to go with the younger student, she won't interfere. Now, the choice is yours...]

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