Chapter 1 – The Forsaken Land

The royal throne room resounded with cheers. Heroes revealed their powers one by one.

“Skill: Sword Saint!”
“Magic: Elemental Archmage!”
“Blessing: Divine Shield!”

The king clapped proudly. “Excellent. With you, our kingdom shall prosper.”

Then came Mark’s turn. The crystal flared—and the hall fell silent.

“Y-Your Majesty…” a court mage stammered.

The king’s eyes narrowed. Such a rare ability… too dangerous.

He forced a smile. “You are different. You need not join the others. Take this gold, and a small abandoned land. Live in peace there.”

Mark clenched his fists. “…So this is how you throw me away?”

Days later, Mark arrived at a ruined town overrun by bandits.

“Well, well! The new lord! Hand over your gold!” a bandit jeered.

Mark’s despair grew. Betrayed again. No skill, no strength…

Then, a gentle voice echoed in his mind.
[You have access to any skill and magic you desire.]

Mark gasped. “W-who?!”
[I am the system. State your wish.]

“…Give me a pistol. And a bulletproof vest.”

In an instant, a black weapon appeared. The bandits froze.
“What the hell is that?!”

Mark raised it, fury in his eyes.
“Eat this, you fools! Did you think I’d let the weak be trampled?!”

Bang! Bang! Bang!
Five bandits collapsed. The rest fled screaming.

Among the spoils, Mark found prisoners in chains.
“Please… help my child…” a starving mother begged.

Mark shot the locks. “You’re free. Go.”

The child hugged his mother. “Thank you… sir.”

Mark looked to the sky.
“That arrogant king thought to shame me… but I’ll prove him wrong. I’ll build a nation greater than his kingdom.”