GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 24.2: Hidden Parameters

"Where did that come from?" Vel asked, turning to face her fully.

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her expression growing more serious. "I've been thinking about looking for a part-time job. The Guild seems like a good place to start."

The idea resonated with Vel. Despite their scholarship support, personal expenses added up quickly. Books, specialty materials, replacement uniforms—not to mention Hileya's wages and accommodations. He'd been carrying similar thoughts in the back of his mind but hadn't acted on them.

"You're right," he nodded. "We do need some sort of income instead of relying completely on the scholarship."

Celia smiled, pleased that he agreed. "Besides, we could take on some basic tasks together. Nothing dangerous—just small errands around the city that pay a bit."

"Sounds like a good idea," Vel said, warming to the concept. "It would give us more chances to explore Lona, too. There's so much of the city we haven't seen yet."

"Let's do it tomorrow morning," Celia suggested, standing up from the bench with renewed energy. "We can check what kind of work they offer to Academy students."

Vel watched as Celia headed toward the west wing, her silhouette disappearing into the evening shadows.

"Come to the common room later for dinner," Vel called after her. "Hileya must be waiting."

Celia turned back briefly. "I'll see you after cleaning myself up."

They split up, each returning to their respective quarters.

Back in his room, Vel collapsed onto the edge of his bed, the revelations still racing.

"At this rate, I'll burn out before I even graduate," he muttered, running his hands through his hair.

Understanding the function calls was one thing, but what if he could write his own? A simple get(target.properties) could be the key to the Appraisal spell he'd been chasing. The thought was tantalizing.

He let his head fall back, the idea spiraling further. If he could read the system, could he call its deepest functions? Something like system.time.deltaTime—which could theoretically allow him to manipulate time itself?

No. Vel sighed, the excitement deflating. This world had evolved, developing its own balances and countermeasures. He knew, instinctively, that the system would protect itself. The mana cost for such a command would be astronomical, an unbreakable safeguard against anyone, even its creator, trying to rewrite reality.

The next morning came with unexpected rain.

Vel sat beside Celia on the covered steps of the lodging, both of them watching sheets of water cascade into the courtyard. He had woken early, excited about their Guild visit, only to find Lona drenched in the sudden storm.

Droplets splashed into rapidly forming puddles. Their enthusiasm from yesterday had dampened considerably.

"It had to be weekend," Celia said, looking toward the blurry scene of rain, her chin resting on her palm.

Vel nodded, equally disappointed. The weather had eliminated any chance of visiting the Guild without getting soaked to the bone. He'd considered using magic to shield them, but the downpour would drain his mana before they made it halfway—and he'd need his strength if they found work at the Guild.

"Let's hope it will end soon," he sighed. "How's class treating you lately?"

Celia straightened up slightly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "My class seems to focus on combat training, nothing I can't handle, but..."