[This Valorous Battle Medal also grants attribute bonuses. Long-term wear enhances your physique and makes your chakra more potent for ninjutsu practice!]
Shion's voice rang in Ryuuto's ears, teasing and slightly smug.
[Now, Host, close your eyes and feel it. You're going to love this!]
"Alright, alright! A battle hero like me deserves to enjoy the spoils of war~" Ryuuto said with a cheeky grin. He lifted his head and focused inward, carefully sensing the subtle changes in his body.
Moments later, his eyes widened. Tiny surges of biological electricity coursed through him, improving blood flow and refining his chakra. Every movement felt sharper, more potent—like his body was subtly leveling up in real time.
"Ha! Athena, this medal is great, but this system… why did it take so long to give me something this awesome? Seriously, come on!"
[System was only recently upgraded. Only now can equipment of this caliber be distributed!]
"Ah… makes sense." Ryuuto pondered. "So besides the medal, there could be other equipment rewards too?"
[Other equipment?]
"Yeah! Gems, necklaces, rings… even daggers or shoes! I'm not picky."
[Possibly. But I can't give details until you complete future tasks. Rewards unlock after completion.]
Ryuuto let out a quiet sigh. After all his hard work, it seemed the road ahead was still long.
"Ryuuto, you're thinking about something, right? Talk to me," Gwen said, concern lacing her voice. "Maybe I can share your pain."
He shook his shoulders, grinning lightly. "Nah, nothing. Just reflecting on the last battle. Nothing in this world can faze me!"
"Hmm… I know you're the best." Gwen nestled closer, enjoying the warmth of his embrace. She'd gladly stay like this forever.
"By the way," Ryuuto asked, "today you're going to that internship at Osborn, right?"
"Oh, right! I almost forgot." Gwen straightened, flustered.
"Then it's not too late. Let's go—I'll come with you." Ryuuto patted her shoulder and held her hand firmly. He didn't wait for Tony or anyone else; Jilian and Extremis were finally dealt with, so no trivial obstacles remained.
With a flash, Ryuuto activated High-Speed Movement, dashing with Gwen in tow. In minutes, they arrived at Osborn's impressive city-center headquarters. Ryuuto slowed to let Gwen adjust, noting how effortlessly she radiated competence in her crisp professional attire.
"Are you Miss Gwen?"
A sleek, confident secretary approached, her smile professional yet inviting.
"Yes, I'm here for the final interview," Gwen replied, calm and poised.
"Perfect! Mr. Harry Osborn requested me to escort you. I'll show you the office and help you get familiar with the company."
"Thank you! I really appreciate it." Gwen glanced at Ryuuto for reassurance. He waved nonchalantly, signaling that everything was under control.
Ryuuto settled into the lobby, sipping coffee while reading a newspaper. Then, a sleek Lincoln sedan pulled up outside. A tall, commanding figure strode in, flanked by perfectly uniformed elites.
"Chairman, hello!" the employees called out, bowing in unison to Norman Osborn.
Norman didn't flinch. Accustomed to this reverence, he didn't glance at them. Striding straight to a private elevator, he gestured dismissively.
"You don't have to follow. Attend to your work."
"Yes, Chairman!" The entourage quickly bowed and melted back into the workforce.
Ryuuto watched, impressed. "Wow… that's power. Norman Osborn… Harry's father, huh?"
He cast a casual glance at Norman, who, surprisingly, caught his gaze. For a tense moment, the billionaire's eyes fixed on him—cold, unreadable, and imposing. Then, Norman's attention shifted back to the elevator, leaving Ryuuto to silently marvel at the man's aura.
"Hehe, Ryuuto, I have good news!" Gwen's voice cut through his thoughts. She appeared in front of him, hands affectionately hugging his neck.
"Really? Tell me!"
"I officially signed a contract with Osborn. This is where I'll be making my mark!"
Ryuuto smiled warmly, genuinely happy for her. "That's amazing, Gwen. I'm proud of you."