Chapter 2

Using a capsule-type VR device, I dove into the world of "Next Stage Online."

The first thing that caught my eye was a scene reminiscent of a blue universe.

Occasionally, strings of 0s and 1s flowed like stars.

Hmm, this digital world has quite an atmosphere.

"Welcome to the world of Next Stage Online. First, please decide on your player name. This cannot be changed later."

I see, so I need to do some initial setup first.

Entering a name hasn't changed much over the years.

I should have known the game wouldn't start right away.

My name... Let's see.

My real name is Nagaai Kyūji, so how about "Kyūji"?

Hmm, does "Ji" make people think of an old man?

No, I'm overthinking it.

I am an uncle, but I'm not an old man.

My heart is young. I won't worry about the details.

"Kyūji, please."

"Understood, Master Kyūji. Next, please set the appearance of your character. You can change this later using in-game facilities, but it will require a fee."

I see, I can change my appearance even after the game starts.

However, such fashion elements, which are not essential to the game, often come with a high price.

I intend to use this character for a long time.

First, male or female...

I'll go with male.

I have the confidence to create a cute girl, but I don't have the courage to play as one.

Besides, I've heard that playing as a girl in the game can make you act more girly in real life.

This isn't a realm to enter lightly.

I'll create a cool, mature male character.

Wow, there are so many parts.

I'll start with an auto-create and then make adjustments.

Fortunately, there's an option for "cool male" in the auto-create menu.

I'll touch that.

Hmm, a pretty good guy appeared.

He's lean and muscular with dull brown hair.

The lack of a beard adds a refreshing touch, which is good.

This is pretty good, but I'll make a few changes.

I'll soften the eyes and slim down the jaw.

There, it's a face that Japanese people would like.

It's not flashy, but it will serve me well for a long time.

"Please, this one."

"Understood. Now, I will send you to the world of Next Stage Online, the land of Nexteria."

"Eh? Already? I thought this game had a job system..."

"That will be explained to you once you arrive."

If the guide says so, I'll follow.

Well, the adventure begins now.

◆ ◆ ◆

After passing through the darkness, my vision cleared.

It seems I'm in a park in the city.

Several players are swinging various weapons on the grass.

Are they also newbies like me?

The game has only been out for a month, so it's not unusual to see a lot of new players.

"This is a park. You can freely use weapons and skills here in the city. You won't hit other players, but be careful not to reveal anything you want to keep secret."

I see, the park is a place to test new weapons and skills.

Looking around, I see people with cool swords and flashy magic, in addition to those with the same initial equipment as me.

That's nice; I've heard that seeing other people's equipment is one of the fun parts of online games.

I want to get cool equipment soon and bask in the envious gazes of others.

"Please choose one of these three initial jobs. Each job has different stats, equipment, and skills."

A blue, semi-transparent window appeared before me.

It read "Warrior," "Mage," and "Archer."

"For the first three days after your initial login, you can freely change your job. Take your time to find the one that suits you. Also, during these three days, beginner equipment will regenerate if destroyed, and there are no penalties for defeat. Don't be afraid to fight."

That's very considerate.

These days, games are very considerate of beginners to prevent them from quitting over minor frustrations.

"That concludes the explanation. From here, you can freely enjoy Next Stage Online. If you have any questions, please use the help function."

It's nice that they care about beginners but don't make the tutorial too long.

In monthly subscription games, this is rare, but in free social games, a long tutorial can lead to uninstallation.

That's a scary thought.

"Well, where should I start?"

There's no sense of discomfort in speaking.

The vibration of my throat and the movement of my tongue feel just like in real life.

"First, I'll decide on a job."

Although I say that, I've already made up my mind.

I'll start with "Warrior"!

My weapons will be a "one-handed sword" and a "shield"!

When it comes to RPGs, this is the classic setup.

As a front-line fighter, I'll protect everyone while cutting down monsters one by one.

Hmm, I look pretty cool.

"I'll check my stats too."

◆ Status

Name: Kyūji

Job: Warrior

Lv: 1/20

HP: 80/80

MP: 20/20

Attack: 22 Defense: 16

Magic Attack: 2 Magic Defense: 2

Speed: 8 Spirit: 0

Skills: None

Hmm, a clear and balanced set of stats.

In games, being mediocre is the weakest.

The Warrior has everything needed for a front-line role.

However, I'm not sure about the "Spirit" stat.

I'll look it up.

"The 'Spirit' stat is unique to Warriors. When your HP falls below a certain percentage, your attack and defense increase. The increase is determined by your Spirit and remaining HP percentage."

That's a pretty good effect.

It fits the image of a resilient warrior and is simply powerful.

Since it's a unique stat, "Mage" and "Archer" must have different unique stats.

I should check those too...

"Excuse me, sorry to bother you."

"Me?"

"Yes!"

The voices came from three girls in beginner equipment.

Their characters are beautiful, which made me, an uncle, a bit flustered.

"Is there something you need?"

"Um, are you also a beginner...?"

"Yes, I was just checking my stats."

"See! If you don't mind, would you like to form a party with us? We want to try a battle, and it would be better to have a solid party of four."

"Sure, no problem. But why me?"

"Because you look cool and strong!"

Heh, so you noticed...

It seems I can't hide my true strength.

I might show it off right away.

The skills of a former game company employee... indeed.