Yevrich

Limon's mind buzzed with thoughts after the conversation with Lalasa, a newfound clarity taking root in his thoughts.

He had always known that magicians possessed unparalleled long-range abilities, yet their vulnerability in close-quarters combat had always been a glaring weakness. In many ways, this was a reality that could not be ignored. Magicians often fell short when an assassin closed the gap, their magical abilities proving less effective in the blink of an eye. Limon had witnessed this in action more than once. An assassin could easily strike when undetected, leaving the magician helpless.

In a bustling crowd, a warrior might still have a chance to react. The assassin, despite their stealth, would have to contend with the warrior's strength. However, for a magician, the scenario would be bleak. Without the ability to sense the threat in time, survival was far from guaranteed.

Lalasa's words about survival rang true. She had highlighted that no spellcaster, no matter how skilled, could survive on their own without the support of comrades. Yet, Limon had never been one to rely on others. He wasn't the type to seek out companionship unless absolutely necessary. The thought of forming bonds didn't sit well with him, not for now, at least.

But as he pondered further, an idea started to crystallize in his mind. What if he could bridge the gap between magic and physical combat? What if he could rectify the glaring flaw that many spellcasters faced?

A surge of determination flooded him, followed by a feeling of clarity. He could do it. There was no reason why he couldn't be both a mage and something more—why not a warrior as well?

His decision made, Limon quickly focused on his attribute points, allocating them with precision. Six points went into strength and endurance, two to agility, four to intelligence, and two to spirit. The moment the points were spent, he could feel the changes within his body. Strength surged through his veins, filling him with newfound energy. His body seemed to grow more solid, his once slender form gaining a subtle but noticeable muscularity.

With the hunger gnawing at him, Limon quickly abandoned any further contemplation. The growing emptiness in his stomach was a reminder that his priorities were far simpler in that moment—food first, thinking later.

He rushed downstairs and seated himself in the rest area, eagerly awaiting his meal. The tavern was quieter today, with only a handful of adventurers scattered about. When the young maiden arrived with his food, Limon barely spared a glance before diving into the meal before him.

The barbarian beef barbecue, dripping with golden fat, was devoured quickly. Limon couldn't help but eat in a frenzy, hunger overtaking all other thoughts. The sharp, savory taste filled his mouth, but there was no time to savor it—he needed the energy.

After a few moments of satisfying his appetite, Limon let out a contented sigh and took a sip of grape juice to wash it down. That's when he heard a voice, surprisingly close.

"Your appetite is truly voracious…"

Limon glanced up in surprise to find a hulking figure standing beside him. The man grinned amiably and took a seat across from him without invitation.

"I'm Yevrich, a berserker, just arrived in the city from the countryside. You seem to be traveling alone. Why not join my team? We could really use a spellcaster."

Limon took in the offer with an indifferent gaze. Yevrich's appearance was imposing, but the sincerity in his voice caught Limon off guard.

Yevrich gestured to the people sitting behind him: an elf wind walker and a human warrior, both young but undoubtedly skilled.

Limon's mind briefly flicked to the thought of joining a team. Yet, he immediately dismissed it. He was here for his own purposes, not to fall into some adventuring troupe's fold. Besides, his journey was just beginning. The idea of depending on others was a distant thought.

"Thank you, but I'm not looking for a companion at the moment," Limon said coolly, his gaze returning to his empty plate.

Yevrich's face showed a slight disappointment, but he quickly recovered with a good-natured chuckle. "No problem. It was worth asking. If you change your mind, the offer stands. We could always use someone like you."

Limon nodded noncommittally. He wasn't interested in extending the conversation any further. "I'll keep that in mind."

Yevrich stood up and returned to his table, where his companions teased him lightly about his failed attempt.

Limon watched quietly, absorbing the dynamics of this adventuring group. It seemed common for adventurers to form teams, gathering in groups to tackle challenges together. This was a new world for Limon, and every moment offered him new lessons.

As Yevrich and his companions exchanged friendly banter, Limon leaned back in his chair, his mind already shifting gears. The next step was clear: while adventurers often found strength in numbers, Limon would carve his own path. He had made a decision. It was time to move forward and embrace the changes in his body and mind.

He didn't need companions to walk this path—he would rise on his own. But for now, he would continue to observe, learn, and refine his strategy.

The world ahead was full of unknowns, but Limon had never felt more ready to face them.