Chapter 124 - The protagonist’s luck

"Protagonist's luck? Am I not already graced with the protagonist's luck? Can this still be increased?"

"System, can you explain?"

"Host, Liliruca Arde is a supporting character to the original protagonist, akin to a strategist, and is also one of the favored individuals of the world. Rescuing her and obtaining protagonist's luck is quite normal," the system explained in a straightforward manner, making Aston understand instantly.

"Is that so?" Aston pondered for a moment after hearing this and then inquired further, "Since she's favored by the world, if I don't save her, will she still manage to escape danger?"

"No," the system responded. "Liliruca Arde's fortune is contingent on the protagonist's presence. Her luck will only manifest when she's with the protagonist. If the current host, who is now the protagonist, doesn't extend a helping hand to her, she will eventually fall into despair and may even meet her demise."

"I see," Aston nodded in understanding and then asked another question, "System, what's the benefit of increased protagonist's luck?"

"You must have read many novels related to luck in your previous life. Why don't you know?" The system's voice carried a tone of surprise and disbelief.

This left Aston feeling slightly awkward.

"I've read them, yes, but those are just the authors' interpretations. Who knows if they are accurate? You should have a clear understanding of this, so it makes sense to ask you directly."

"That makes sense indeed," the system responded. "Protagonist's luck, simply put, means turning misfortune into fortune, encountering prosperity in times of adversity."

"In certain fantasy worlds, the stronger the protagonist's luck, the more benefits they receive. The same applies to this world. When the host enters the dungeon, they can obtain more monster materials, and the chances of encountering rare materials also increase significantly."

"Moreover, and most importantly, an increase in protagonist's luck reduces the chances of gods intervening against the host. The current situation of the host is not yet alarming enough to provoke the gods. However, if the host fully unleashes Excalibur and Avalon in front of the gods, even though the host is the protagonist of this world, it would be difficult to remain unscathed by the divine beings."

"As protagonist's luck grows stronger, it subtly influences the gods, making them turn a blind eye to events surrounding you," the system explained.

"I understand now," Aston said, pondering for a moment before approaching Lili.

Aston decided to undertake this task. He understood the importance of protagonist's luck for himself, as outlined by the system. A strong protagonist's luck would allow him to navigate this world with ease.

"Liliruca Arde, would you like to join the Hestia Familia?" Aston asked directly, ignoring the expressions of Lili's companions.

Lili was visibly taken aback by the sudden offer, as if she doubted what she had heard. She recognized Aston immediately, knowing him as the fastest adventurer to level up in Orario, breaking records by ascending from Level 1 to Level 2 in just half a month.

Since then, Lili had removed Aston from her list of targets, never expecting him to approach her, let alone invite her to join the Hestia Familia.

"I'm asking you if you want to join the Hestia Familia. If you're willing, I can help you resolve all the troubles behind you," Aston repeated, observing Lili's stunned state.

Lili quickly realized that her situation was probably already known to Aston, prompting her confusion.

"Aston-san, you must be aware of who Lili is, right?" she asked.

"Why would Aston-san invite someone like Lili?" she voiced her doubts.

"I think your ability to survive on your own until now demonstrates considerable wisdom, so I want you to join the Hestia Familia and provide us with advice and strategies," Aston explained with a smile.

He knew that if he claimed there was no motive behind his invitation, Lili, in her current state, wouldn't believe it. Given the system had identified Lili as a strategist, he decided to use that as the pretext.

"Strategize? You mean you want me as a strategist?"

"I can't do that. I'm just a simple supporter. I can't shoulder such a important responsibility." Lili instantly dismissed the idea, not believing in her capabilities.

"People always grow," Aston countered her self-doubt, encouraging her.

The system had labeled Lili a strategist, so Aston had no doubt about her potential. Given the opportunity, she could undoubtedly evolve into a first-class strategist.

Lili didn't respond immediately but fell into contemplation.

Aston didn't press further and stood quietly in front of her, awaiting her decision.

As time ticked by, two minutes passed. Aston's brow slightly furrowed.

If Lili truly wasn't interested, Aston wouldn't insist. The protagonist's luck wasn't worth him groveling for it. Fortunately, before Aston decided to leave, she made her choice.

"Thank you very much for your invitation, Aston-san. I am honored!" Lili lifted her head, revealing a bright smile that hadn't been seen in a long while, and addressed Aston.

Aston responded with a slight smile and extended his hand towards her.

"Then, I look forward to working with you, Lili."

"Likewise, Aston-san!"

"Right!..."

***

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