I Became The MC's Best Friend In A Shitty Game!?

As (Y/N) pushed open the door, he was greeted by a maid, presumably Ada. She was a head shorter than him, bowing down to give her respects to her young master. She wore a typical maid outfit, black and white pieces adorned with frills at some parts.

(Y/N): Good afternoon.... Ada...?

(Y/N) greeted her hesitantly, unsure of whether she was who he thought she was.

Ada: G-Good day to you Young Master. The Count and Countess are w-waiting for you at the dining hall.

Ada replied, standing upright afterwards. Taking a good look at her, (Y/N) could see that she seemed young, maybe around the same age as Sylas. Her chestnut colored hair with a fringe long enough to go over her eyes. Ironically enough, it couldn't hide her jade colored eyes that were darting around everywhere, not wanting to meet Sylas'. Whether it was due to fear, nervousness, or something else entirely, (Y/N) didn't know.

Ada: I-is there something wrong Young Master?

Ada stuttered over her words, noticing (Y/N)'s prolonged "observation" of her.

(Y/N): Oh, nah... not at all! I was just daydreaming for a moment there.

(Y/N) dismissed her worries with a smile, trying to play it cool. He was trying to mimic a noble's attitude, something more dignified, but it was clearly not up to standard yet.

(Y/N): Ahem... Anyways, please lead the way Ada. I'm starving after being holed up in my quarters for so long.

Flashing her a smile, (Y/N) urged Ada to lead the way. He followed behind her as they both walked down the grand hallways of the manor. One could tell everything here was probably worth billions but at the same time, the way it was arranged and designed.... It all seemed... Homey. It wasn't too flashy or extravagant, it was... Just right, so to say. (Y/N) expected manors and castles alike to have winding hallways, just like a maze. The Marcerin's Manor however, maintained both a high level of dignity and surprisingly, simplicity.

(Y/N): Hmm, could it be that the reason is because the Count was of commoner blood? Eh... Who cares. I like how cozy it is here anyways.

(Y/N) pondered and chuckled to himself. Ada, who noticed this, grew even more confused and slightly worried.

Ada: I-is the Young Master truly of good health? There's a different... air about him. I-if he's sick, what... what should I do?

Ada, who was wandering in her own swamp of worries and thoughts, failed to notice the entrance to the dining hall as she kept walking.

(Y/N): Ada? Hey... Ada!

Thock---!

But it was too late. Ada walked right into the door, her forehead and nose making contact with the sturdy door, causing her to stumble backwards and lose her balance.

Thump--!

Ada landed on the floor on her hind, letting out a tiny "Eep!". Worried, (Y/N) rushed over to her side. While cupping her face with his hands, he leaned a little closer, inspecting her face for any major injuries.

(Y/N): You alright? What happened back there, you just walked right into the door!

(Y/N) let out a small chuckle as he brushes aside Ada's fringe, checking for any bleeding on her forehead. Luckily for her, there was no bleeding of any sort, just a huge hump sitting there instead.

Ada, who was too close for comfort to Sylas, had her eyes darting everywhere out of sheer nervousness and embarrassment. Even her face was starting to burn a light shade of red.

Ada: I-i-i-i-i'm alwright Young Masther!

Ada exclaimed loudly, stumbling upon her own words and flailing around her arms somewhat, hoping Sylas would move away from her.

Creak---!

Hearing the commotion outside, the entrance to the dining hall opened, and out stepped a man who seemed to be in his late 50s. He was donning on a pristine suit, accompanied with white gloves and a well trimmed moustache. Behind him, was a lady who looked to be slightly younger than the man, with hair dyed a fiery orange hue, that swayed about wildly.

Nice Moustache Man?: Oh dear, what has happened here? Are both you and Ada hurt, Young Master?

(Y/N): No, no.. I'm not hurt, but Ada is. She walked right into the door so I was just checking whether she was hurt or not. Doesn't seem to be the case though, but could you take a look at her just to confirm?

(Y/N) sighed, explaining the situation, still worried about Ada. The man nodded, quickly moving towards Ada and tending to her. Just then, the woman behind him walked towards Sylas. Her gait was slow yet intimidating, an unshakeable air of confidence surrounded her. She walked right towards (Y/N). Out of nowhere, she pulled on Sylas' ear with an ample amount of force, enough to cause slight discomfort and pain.

Orange-haired woman: Sylas! What have you been doing in your room all day?! Haven't I told you that this is not the time to be slacking around? And! What did I say about causing trouble to Ada!? You and your mischievousness... I swear!

The woman continued to berate Sylas non-stop, her words like flames being spat out by a dragon. Her temper that was slowly rising made it as if there were steam coming out of her ears, and breathing flames from her mouth.

(Y/N): Ow ow ow! Mother! I didn't do anything to Ada!

Mother... Even (Y/N) was surprised that it came out so naturally, he barely even noticed himself saying it. The woman, who had let go of his ear and now stood in front of him with her arms crossed, was Sylas' mother. Faylin Marcerin. 

In POAH, the game itself didn't dive much into the families and their lineage. However, there were still official lores out and about that were published by the author in snippets from time to time. Being the POAH nerd that he was, (Y/N) had read them all. After all, he adored the series.

Faylin Marcerin was Sylas' birth mother. Her personality was well... one of a kind. She and her husband, Dominic Marcerin, were polar opposites when it came to their personalities. Whereas Dominic was more meek but could be level-headed and analytical when it came to business, Faylin was more.... Fiery. She was confident and unrestrained, choosing actions over words. At times, she could be a bit of an airhead too, a trait that Dominic found endearing back when they were younger. Unlike Dominic, Faylin was of noble lineage, although not one of extremely high status.

After huffing and puffing at (Y/N), she walked towards Ada and the man with the nice moustache.

Faylin Marcerin: Ada. Did that clown do anything to you? No need to worry, you can tell me the truth.

Faylin asked Ada, with more warmth and comfort in her tone, whilst she embraced her and patted her back. Ada, who was rubbing her sore nose, shook her head meekly in a cute manner.

Ada: N-no, Countess! What the Young Master said is true. I a-apologize for causing a commotion!

Ada bowed and apologized profusely, her voice slightly shaky. Faylin placed a hand on her head and stroked it gently.

Faylin: Alright, I'll believe you. Berne, go see to Ada and confirm whether she sustained further injuries.

Faylin gestured to the man with the immaculate moustache. Berne.... Berne. The name sounded familiar. If (Y/N) wasn't wrong, Berne was the head butler of the Marcerin. Well, that would explain why he carried himself with such professionalism.

Berne bowed in response to Faylin's command, helping to prop up Ada and inspecting her with a scrutinous eye.

Wanting to avoid further confrontation, (Y/N) tried to sneak past Faylin and into the dining hall while she was distracted. Crouching low and tip toeing in an almost comedic manner, he began his beginner's attempt in stealth.

Slowly and carefully, as though treading a path of broken glass shards, (Y/N) barely made it past Faylin.

(Y/N): Hell yeah, glad I played Ninja's Creed hehe.. This is too easy.

(Y/N) smugly declared in his head. Alas, his fantasy was cut short by Faylin's domineering tone.

Faylin: Hold it right there, young man. You still have to explain why you were holed up in your room for almost half the day...

As she said this, she wrapped her arm around Sylas' neck, pulling him close to her intimidating presence, not giving him room to escape.

(Y/N): U-uh... Nothing much, Mother. Just... You know... Hahah...

Feeling such a strong presence for the first time, (Y/N) couldn't help but crumble under it.

Dominic: Oh, Dear... Please calm down. I'm sure Sylas has a good reason for this.

Dominic, walks over to them, his gentle tone a deep contrast to Faylin's fiery tone.

Faylin: Dear... He's attending in the academy in a few month's time! What if he develops a bad habit of sleeping in?

Faylin turns to Dominic, lamenting. Meanwhile, (Y/N)'s ears propped up at the mention of "academy".

Faylin: Now would be the perfect time to whip him into shape, don't you think?

Faylin's gaze turned back to Sylas, her eyes containing a burning passion in it, one that spelled trouble for (Y/N). He couldn't help but gulp. Dominic chuckled, holding Faylin's hand and sweetly and gently stroking it with his fingers.

Dominic: It'll be alright, let's trust our child hmm? After all, we raised him together, so what could go wrong?

Dominic laughed softly, his calm and serene voice causing (Y/N) to relax a little. Faylin, on the other hand, was far from relaxed.

As if water had been doused upon her, her fiery temper went down immensely. Her face went red and it's almost as if steam was coming out from her ears. The reason for all of this? Well, surprisingly, it was because of Dominic's sweet touch. She melted under it, now all embarrassed and flustered, like a young maiden who had experienced love for the first time.

Faylin: If you say so, Dear...

She said, eyes gazing at the floor in embarrassment, yet her hand returned Dominic's caress.

(Y/N): Damn... I knew their relationship was going strong from the lore but this... It's on another level.

(Y/N) chuckled slightly, admiring his... "parents" marital relationship, and cringing slightly. It was so obvious that these two were perfect for one another.

Dominic: Come, the food is ready. Let's eat shall we? And Sylas... We have something important to discuss today.

Dominic gestured to the table, as the three of them took their respective seats. It was a modestly large table, not like the ones (Y/N) had seen royalties have in TV shows and anime. Before them, the servants laid out a wide variety of delectable food. (Y/N) could barely contain his drool that was about to seep out from his mouth.

Once all of it were laid out, the Marcerin's began to dine in pleasure. Thankfully, and luckily, (Y/N) somehow inherited Sylas' table manners, one befitting of a noble. Had he not done so, he would've started devouring a huge chicken leg without a care in the world.

Dominic: By the way, Sylas. Are you unwell? You seem... Different today.

Dominic's meek attitude was replaced with a serious one, his eyes burning a hole in (Y/N), as if he was studying him in every extent. (Y/N) could barely stop himself from choking on his food, before feigning calmness.

(Y/N): Ahem... What makes you say that Father? I'm feeling right as rain today.

Dominic: Hmm... Is that so?...

Dominic replied, his gaze never leaving (Y/N), causing him to squirm slightly, feeling uncomfortable.

Dominic: Anyways... As mentioned, the thing we wanted to discuss with you today i-

Faylin: Is that you've been accepted into Aurathen Academy! And you'll be starting in 3 months!

Faylin's eyes lit up brightly, the pride she felt for her son overwhelming her. Dominic couldn't help but smile endearingly at his beloved wife's reaction.

Dominic: Yes, that's right. You've done well in the placement tests and will soon be entering the most esteemed academy in the continent. Congratulations, my son.

(Y/N): Thank you, Father, Mother. I couldn't have made it without your support.

Weirdly enough, (Y/N) felt an unexplainable feeling of joy and content. As if, he had first hand experienced the struggles and obstacles Sylas had to face himself.

Dominic: While this is slightly early, do you have any plans on what Path you'll be taking in the Academy, Sylas? After all, it's a good idea to plan and prepare early, since you have 3 months till you enter.

Dominic suggested to (Y/N), while sipping his tea-filled cup. (Y/N) brooded over the question, formulating an answer after a while.

In the game, Aurathen Academy had different Paths for students. These paths were akin to what most games would refer to as "Classes". Aurathen had three major classes, namely Vanguard, Horizon and Mantle. In simpler and more common terms, they were similar to Attacker, Range and Support.

Of course, each Path had its own sets of subclasses, so ultimately, it's used as a general grouping of sorts. In the game, Sylas was under the Mantle Path, due to his buffing capabilities. (Y/N) didn't plan on changing that, fearing the infamous "butterfly effect" that his decisions could have made.

(Y/N): Butterfly effect huh... I doubt things would go the same way as in the game, to be honest. For all I know, me transmigrating could've started it already. But... It'd still be best if I try to keep most things the same.

(Y/N) pondered to himself. As he navigated through his ocean of thoughts, an idea perked up within him. He recalled he once played a game that had a character that specialized in healing and yet, they could be used in an attacking role as well.

(Y/N): I think... I'll choose the Mantle Path.

Dominic: I see. It seems like you've thought it through.

Dominic smiled contently, pleased by (Y/N)'s answer. Faylin, on the other hand, was slightly pouting.

Having graduated from Aurathen Academy herself, Faylin chose the path of a Vanguard, excelling in her brawling abilities. She had a knack for fighting close quarters, especially since she could use almost every weapon to some degree. Kind of like a jack of all trades, you could say. Hence, it was no wonder why she'd be a bit... annoyed when her son doesn't follow after her footsteps.

(Y/N): Oh but... Even if I'll be a Mantle, I feel like I should at least learn a bit of how to fight. I'd probably be prime target from a strategic point of view, so it'd be cool if I could handle myself too while I'm at it.

(Y/N) suggested after noticing her expression, giving Faylin small and quick glances. Hearing this, Faylin couldn't help but beam a wide smile as bright as the sun, her excitement spreading in the air.

Faylin: Mmm, mmm! As expected of my son!

Faylin exclaimed, coaxing a small laugh from Dominic and endearing smiles from the servants.

Faylin: How do you want to go about it? A sword, an axe, or maybe even hand to hand combat?

Faylin chattered excitedly, suggesting different combat styles one after the other.

(Y/N): Uh... I was thinking more of a... Staff? Or maybe polearms in general... I guess?

(Y/N) scratched his cheek sheepishly, not used to being overwhelmed by another's passion.

Faylin: Very well! We'll begin your training next week! You best be prepared.

Faylin declared, her eyes lighting up with an intense fire.

Dominic: Hahah, Dear. It makes me happy to see you this excited. Anyways, Sylas, if you ever need anything, just let us know. We're here for you.

(Y/N): Damn... Talk about sweet. These two are such... kind people.

(Y/N) marveled Sylas' parents personalities. He couldn't help but think that these two were one of the most supportive parents he'd ever seen, on top of being good people individually.

(Y/N): Thank you, Father, Mother. I'm thankful for all you've done for me.

He couldn't help but smile endearingly, feeling touched from their genuine words and actions. After a heartfelt showcase of his gratitude, the family of three finishes their meal before long.

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As the sun began to set, (Y/N) returned to Sylas' room, contemplating on whatever happened today. After a while of much needed review of the events today, (Y/N) absentmindedly looked at the glowing stones in Sylas' room.

These glowing stones emitted light, similarly to light bulbs. However, in this world the usage of electricity hadn't been discovered yet. Instead, this world's replacement for electricity was mana.

In fact, the science in this world wasn't as advanced as in (Y/N)'s world. After all, why would one need to generate electricity when people can light up things with magic? Why study medicine, when one can cast a simple healing spell?

(Y/N): Hmm.... Mana, huh?

Mana. Then, it hit (Y/N). He could use mana, or at least Sylas could. The realization that (Y/N) could make use of an unknown variable that didn't exist in his world tingled his curiosity.

(Y/N): How should I go about it?

(Y/N) pondered. Feeling excited, yet lost, he didn't know where to begin when it came to manipulating mana.

Despite this, he was determined to to try, his motivation quelling his worries. Thinking that it would be similar to meditation, (Y/N) decided to lie down on the bed, easing himself into relaxation.

At this moment, he visualized mana as flowing water, his own mana pool a lake within himself. It might've been the work of Sylas' muscle memory, but it didn't take long for (Y/N) to sense something... faintly warm. Something foreign yet familiar to him.

(Y/N) continued to immerse himself in the experience, deeply focused. He sensed different depths of warmness throughout his body. 

He tried to move the mana in the direction he wanted, but it moved in an unstructured manner. Whereas he imagined a smooth stream of mana flowing from place to place, what he got instead was the mana going in the general direction, but splashing around wildly, like a current raging fiercely that it the river's banks could barely keep it in.

Then, an idea sparked in his thoughts. What if, instead of picturing the mana flowing around like water, he pictured the mana flowing through structured streams, like a circulatory system.

Who knew what he found boring in basic biology could further ignite his thirst for success in controlling mana? Of course, he only used the basic framework of it. It's not like he was a biologist.

Fwiiiing--!

Imagining his "blood" flowing, (Y/N) felt a slight tingle all over his body. Mana, was flowing gently and smoothly this time, through the path he envisioned. This new feeling was both eccentric yet familiar. The smooth-flowing mana tickled the inner workings of his body, filling (Y/N) with excitement in this experience.

(Y/N): Foooh... Alright. Let's turn it up a notch.

Licking his lips, (Y/N) visualized a stronger concentrated flow through his body, like a hose turned up to the maximum power.

(Y/N): GRKK--!

What soon followed was a sharp, searing pain throughout his body, as if something from within was about to burst forth, causing him to jolt up. The strong flow he visualized was achieved, yes, but his body simply wasn't able to withstand it. It was like a ball being pumped with too much air, threatening to tear and burst open, the audible strain on the rubber a warning.

(Y/N): Cough! Cough! Fuck!

The sudden jolting pain terminated his concentration, his visualization dissolving into nothingness, like mist in the sun. The pain once an overwhelming presence, slowly ebbed away, like the tide being pulled back into the ocean.

(Y/N): Ugh... That felt like shit...

He could feel his body slightly throbbing from the aftermath, his heart pulsating faster than usual. Sweat beads ran down his forehead, as if they were racing. However, his motivation stood steadfast, unwavering. With a glimpse to his current limits, (Y/N) carefully tried increasing the output once more.

This time, he visualized the flow slowly, bit by bit, growing stronger. Again, like a water hose, (Y/N) cautiously increased the amount of mana flowing through his body, to the point of slight discomfort. He felt a growing warmth in the places flowed to, like the feeling when someone gulps down hot cocoa in winter, the warmth spreading throughout the body.

(Y/N): Mmm, this amount seems good...

Settling down on a fixed output, (Y/N) kept that constant amount of mana flowing through his body. Next, he focused on how the mana flowed. He expected it to flow in a structured manner, through mana vessels or pathways, terms he had picked up from various Web novels and manhwas in his previous life. To his surprise, it flowed freely at the moment. The only thing that he found similar was the mana's origin. Usually, there'd be a point in the character's body, like a dantian or a mana heart. In his case, his mana's origin was close to his heart. All his mana stemmed from that origin.

Whenever he stopped focusing on controlling the flow of mana, most of it retracted back to the origin, while a miniscule amount leaked out and flowed freely and wildly within his body. It was similar to colored dye being dropped into still water, where most of it stayed together, with a few curling and spiraling out slowly as it spreads.

(Y/N): Whew, that's enough practice. Hmm, come to think of it... Status window.

Whooong---!

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Sylas Marcerin

Skills:

— Magic —

Mana Circulation (S+) (4%)

Support Magic Mastery (A) (19%)

Offense Magic Mastery (F) (1%)

— Physical —

NA

Unique Talent:

— The Thousandth Trier —

Grants the player the ability to nullify pain and boost all attributes momentarily (x1000)

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With all that practice, surely something must've changed within his stats, is what (Y/N) thought. True enough, there was a slight change. The proficiency progress of his innate Mana Circulation skill increased ever so slightly.

(Y/N): Oh yeah... Sylas was good at circulating mana. Probably why most of it came so easily to me. 

(Y/N) mulled, scrutinizing Sylas', and his, stats.

Analyzing his somewhat lackluster stats, (Y/N) reverted back to an old habit he had when playing games. "Min-maxing"*

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Hi hi! Author here! Quick explanation on min-maxing, yeah?

Min-maxing refers to the gaming strategy of optimizing a character or build by maximizing desired abilities or stats while minimizing others, often resulting in a character that excels in one specific area but is weak in others. It's a concept found in various game genres, particularly RPGs and strategy games, where players analyze game mechanics to identify the most effective strategies for success.

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Right off the bat, (Y/N) set his sights on working on the Mana Circulation skill as much as possible, as well as Support Magic Mastery. As for the other magic-related skills...

(Y/N): Yeah... might not be worth investing in offensive magic huh...

(Y/N) murmured to himself. Of course, it wouldn't hurt to learn some, but realistically speaking, the results it might yield might not amount to much.

Although, this didn't apply for the Physical section. Yes, it was blank, but that doesn't mean it was immediately useless. In fact, it could actually be the more flexible section of the two.

For the Physical section, (Y/N) thought it was pretty straightforward. More moving, less thinking. He planned to start off with simple physical training. Plus... there was that spar session with Faylin too. 

(Y/N): A training session... that's basically my first tutorial in this world hahaha...

(Y/N) chuckled to himself. To be fair, most tutorials nowadays give out rewards, or at least necessary items/stats disguised as rewards. With the Physical section settled for now, the Magic section was more complex in his opinion. Unlike physical attributes, it involved more thinking, as well as moving. Learning something, and then applying. That was the impression he got.

(Y/N): Can't believe I got transmigrated and still have to study...

With a heavy sigh, (Y/N) got off from his comfortable bed, and made his way to the door once more.

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Author's Note:

Wow! You're still here huh? You must have a patience of a god! I know... I ain't the best in writing. PLUS, you had to seat through this longer than usual chapter of mine.

I tried to do some character intro buuuut, I can tell I'm not the best at it bahaha. I want to make my characters loveable, or at the very least, characters yall can connect with, in both good and bad ways, you know?

Idk how well I'll do in this regard, but let's see how well I can do it. I hope further down the line, yall will love and/or hate the characters I try to flesh out, for who they are and not cuz they're just some reusable general slop of a character you see everywhere.

Also, I kinda have trouble writing the MC in a consistent manner? So any feedback will help me a lot, in regards to this.

BUT ANYWAYS, if you're still around, thank you thank you thank you THANK YOU for doing so. I really appreciate it, broskis!

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