Chapter 39: Development Ability

In addition to basic stats, magic, and skills, a unique set of options known as development abilities may manifest upon leveling up—keyword being may. These development abilities are not fixed like the 5 stats, but instead change depending on an adventurer's actions and performance. They are additional, acquired abilities gained through practical experience and relentless effort. For example, adventurers who slay a great number of monsters in a short period might be granted [Hunter], while those who frequently heal and support allies may get [Healer]. In a way, development abilities serve as a reflection of the adventurer's path—a unique signature of their journey and growth. Although development abilities don't offer the immediate, overwhelming power of magic or skills, many of them are nothing short of extraordinary. Some adventurers, those with exceptional aptitude and who consistently walk the edge of life and death, may even unlock rare and unique abilities far beyond the norm. Standing beside Akira, Astraea began listing the possible development abilities, naming them one by one as if she were reading a sacred scripture—or announcing a banquet of blessings. "Let's see... First, there's [Hunter]—" [Hunter] is granted only when one slays a vast number of monsters within a short timeframe. It can only be acquired upon reaching LV 2 and enhances combat effectiveness against monsters. "Then there's [Mage]—" This development ability generates a magic circle beneath the adventurer, significantly enhancing their magic's potency, expanding the range of effect, and increasing mind efficiency. It even boosts their magic stat as if they had ascended another level. "[Abnormal Resistance]—" As the name implies, it theoretically grants resistance to status effects like poison, charm, and dizziness. In early stages, it can be obtained by frequently being exposed to the venom of purple moths. Of course, it's not as good as it sounds. In truth, this often only succeeds to resist poison and fails against other abnormal conditions. "And then, the rarest among them... [Mystery]!" [Mystery]—a development ability so rare and valuable that its appearance is recorded only in fragments of public knowledge. It grants the ability to create miracles and craft powerful magic items. One of its applications is the creation of the legendary Status Thief, brewed using a god's blood. With it, one can view someone's status. Only those possessing [Mystery] can craft such an item. Furthermore, [Mystery] can amplify the effects of other development abilities or synchronize them in unique ways. For instance, both [Mystery] and [Mage] are prerequisites for creating Grimoires used to awaken magic. Even within all of Orario, the number of adventurers who possess [Mystery] can be counted on one hand. Suddenly, Astraea tilted her head and raised an eyebrow. "Wait, what is this one... [Integration]?" Her voice was tinged with curiosity. "This... this isn't in any of the lower world's records. Akira, what do you think it means?" Akira pondered for a moment, then said thoughtfully, "Judging from the name... perhaps it refers to the unification of all forces?" He paused, then added, "It might mean that in that special state—my Element Blaster form—I could use all powers in harmony, even magic." Astraea nodded in agreement and said, "Yes... that does seem to be the essence of it. I can sense that much." It was undoubtedly a powerful and fitting ability for Akira. But Astraea was not one of those controlling gods who forced her will upon her children. She would never treat her children like mere tools. Instead, she offered the choice freely, "Then, Akira, it seems you'll have to decide between [Mystery] and [Integration]. No matter what, I'll support you." Without hesitation, Akira replied firmly, "Astraea-sama, I choose [Mystery]." It was the most practical ability for him—one that would enable him to craft items, artifacts, and protective equipment for Alise and the others, to safeguard them in times of peril. He would use the knowledge and power he had gained as a Dimension Walker to forge tools of protection. As for [Integration], it wasn't necessary—at least, not yet. There would come a time when he would gain the ability to command all sub-classes and wield them in unison. He had that feeling. For now, this power was more than enough. Astraea, seeing the clarity in his eyes, said no more. She simply smiled and began completing the final step of the rank up. "Very well. I understand." "It's done." A warm glow suffused Akira's body. Power rose from within him. Akira LV 2 Strength: I0 Durability: I0 Dexterity: I0 Agility: I0 Magic: I0 Development Ability: Mystery I [Magic] Element Control Blood Magic [Skills] Dark Eyes Immortality Awakening Akira sat up from the bed, stretched his arms, and moved his fingers—but oddly, he didn't feel any immediate surge of strength. Astraea giggled, covering her face with her hand and said, "Did you think your power would spike the moment you leveled up? You'll only notice the difference once you go adventuring again." Akira scratched his cheek and chuckled. "Well, I was hoping for a little boost at least." Despite all the level-ups she had performed for other children over the years, this one felt different. For the first time, Astraea found herself genuinely happy over a child's growth. She watched him with warmth in her eyes. It had barely been a month since Akira joined the familia, but to her, it already felt like they had shared years together. After Akira dressed and turned to face her, Astraea's expression shifted. It wasn't her usual gentle smile, nor her serene composure. It was... intense. Emotional. Akira, flustered, scratched his head and asked, "Uhm... Astraea-sama? Is something wrong with my Falna?" Astraea smiled and shook her head. Silently, she beckoned him to come closer. Akira stiffly walked up to her and looked into her eyes. At 1.8 meters, he had to tilt his head slightly to meet the gaze of Astraea, who stood at 1.67 meters. With a gentle motion, Astraea cupped Akira's ears and tilted his head upward. Then, with graceful poise, she leaned down and pressed her soft, warm lips against his forehead. Her lips were like petals—plump, pink, and faintly glowing. Their touch was tender and reverent, like a blessing passed down from the heavens. Moments later, she pulled away, placed one hand behind her back, and raised the other to her lips, making a "shhh" gesture. "This is a reward just for you." She whispered with a girlish grin. "Don't tell the others. It's... for justice!" Akira stared at her, awestruck. That expression on her face... the light in her eyes... It was something he had never seen before. Then, without thinking, he reached up and gently grasped her right hand. Astraea blinked in surprise, but didn't pull away. Akira leaned forward and touched his lips to her index finger—lightly, respectfully. Looking up at her, he smiled. "It's my honor, Astraea-sama." Their eyes met and they flashed a smile at each other. After a moment, Astraea flicked his forehead with her finger and scolded him gently, "Don't do that to other girls." Akira grinned. Her scolding tone was more loving than stern. Feeling emboldened, he joked, "That kiss was too stingy, Astraea-sama. Just a forehead kiss? I'm a greedy child. I want more love next time."