9 Chapter 9
The three of us turned towards the approaching figure, curious to know what he had to say.
"Apologies for interrupting your conversation," the man spoke politely, "but we need Sora in the Hero Group due to his high status and unique title."
The man introducing himself as Zack belonged to the popular group of kids known for their influence and charisma.
"High status and a unique title? Hahaha, come on, Zack. You must be mistaken. Sora isn't the type to have such status," Fat responded, his voice laced with sarcasm, mocking Sora.
"No, I saw it with my own eyes when Sora revealed his status," Zack replied, his expression serious.
Fat fell silent, caught off guard by Zack's unwavering conviction. He didn't expect Zack to take it so seriously.
I couldn't help but feel sorry for Fat. He simply wanted this conversation to end on a good note, without any negative consequences.
Realizing the importance of choosing the right words when dealing with the popular crowd, we couldn't afford to joke around carelessly. We had to be mindful of our statements to avoid any negative perceptions being formed about us, exploiting their popularity.
Turning to Sora, I inquired about his status. Sora proceeded to show me his remarkable profile.
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-Name: Sora
-Age: 17
-Level: 1
-Title: Four Elemental
-Job: Mage
-HP: 100 MP: 500 Strength: 50
-Defense: 50 Magic: 400 Speed: 50
-Intelligence: 40 Luck: 6
Skills:
-Fire - Water
-Earth - Wind
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Both Fat and I were taken aback by Sora's stats. Zack, who was present, reiterated, "See? Sora has an incredible status."
"Therefore, we need your power, Sora, in the Hero Group," Zack insisted, pressuring Sora to join their ranks.
Sora appeared bewildered, struggling to make a decision. He turned to both of us, seeking our opinions on the matter.
It seemed Sora also hoped that our statuses would match his own, but his hopes were shattered as he observed our profiles. I saw Sora's disappointment upon noticing Fat's average stats, making him ineligible to join the Hero Group.
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-Name: Fat
-Age: 17
-Level: 1
-Title: None
-Job: Knight
-HP: 200 MP: 100 Strength: 150
-Defense: 180 Magic: 50 Speed: 80
-Intelligence: 15 Luck: 11
Skills:
-Shield - Guard
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Once again, Zack pushed Sora, providing assurances and enticing offers if he joined their group. It wasn't just Zack; other followers of his echoed the invitation to Sora in a persuasive manner.
In turn, Sora extended the invitation to both of us to join the Hero Group.
However, our decision didn't align with theirs, and they turned away, ignoring our presence.
Zack then expressed his concerns to Sora, rejecting our inclusion in their group.
"It's not that we can't accept them, but it's about their safety. They would be in danger if they joined our group due to their low statuses," Zack conveyed, his words veiled with a calculated tone.
I silently applauded Zack's choice of words, acknowledging his shrewdness.
Upon hearing those words, Sora grew anxious, feeling guilty for not being able to stand with both of us.
Fat and I reassured Sora, "Don't worry, Sora. Even
if we're not in the same group, we're still friends. So, go ahead and join the Hero Group. Save the kingdom and save us."
Fat's words brought solace to Sora's restless heart.
Zack and his followers began to smile, but I knew their smiles weren't genuine. They didn't care about Sora; all they desired was his power.
