Rin's idea to gain power quickly and efficiently was simple—if he could not use his fists, then he would use weapons.
There were all kinds of weapons in the apocalypse, but the system assigned everyone an affinity for these weapons based on their experience.
For example, Shelly's affinity for swords was the highest. That meant that she could reach her maximum potential if she used a sword. But her affinity with a bow was so low that she had a guaranteed chance to hit an ally. Even if she successfully hit a monster with it, the force wouldn't even leave a scratch.
As for Rin, he did not recall anything about his character's affinity. But as someone who dealt with resources, he doubted he had an affinity for a typical weapon.
But that's what this preparation was for. By familiarizing himself with weapons beforehand, he could raise his weapon affinity.
The hidden truth that no one but the MC realized was that it was possible to raise one's affinity with a weapon efficiently. By constantly using a weapon, you could become more familiar with it. The system had also told the MC that affinity increased twice as fast if you had practice before the apocalypse.
Rin had a little less than 3 years, but if he planned it properly, he could become proficient in at least one weapon?
Guns were his first choice. And while he did like how easy they were to use compared to other traditional weapons, they also had a drawback—the ammunition. Hunters needed to buy special bullets from the system (or craft them using skills), which could get expensive.
While guns were for regular use (followed by the bow, the greatsword, and then the sword), they were too expensive for normal use. Only those with crafting skills or related mana skills could use them.
That was where Rin's luck improved.
The MC had gotten mana-related skills by simply knowing about future events. Because of that 'forbidden' knowledge, the MC's Intellect stat had become 100 at the start, giving him an edge over others.
And now, Rin had the same knowledge. Even if the system were to cut his points, he would at least get some mana-related skills. If nothing else, he had made sure to three years for future use.
'I will likely survive long enough to meet Shelly again. And once I do, I can just clutch her thighs and take it easy.'
Three years felt like a long time. But Rin had a feeling it would pass in the blink of an eye.
…
The only thing that felt different the next day was the extra weapon Rin had in his bag.
He had finally bought (or rather, asked his butler to buy one) a gun. Fortunately, no one had asked him any questions.
His butler was ready to do illegal stuff for money, but Rin was sure he was starting to get suspicious by this point… not that he had asked his butler for help or anything. Still, his butler was a little too exceptional at getting things done.
It almost made Rin wonder if it was worth telling him about the future and securing his aid early.
'No, that old man is far too mysterious. For someone as devoted to money as he is, his past is far too clean.'
Not that Rin had done any investigation into that matter.
It was easy to push his thoughts away from his butler.. Rin's phone demanded his attention, and he took it out to check who was messaging him.
Rin checked Shelly's messages and replied to her before looking at the second username.
It still felt weird to see Reina's name on his screen. So far, the only female contacts he had were his mother and Shelly. Well, the ones he communicated with, at least.
Shelly's message was a simple one-liner.
[We need to talk.]
That intimidating message was one Rin had been waiting for, so he quickened his pace and waited for the lunch break.
Amelia had not come to school today, but it was to be expected after what happened yesterday.
The loud lunch bell signaled that it was time to face the music. He walked toward the roof and finally stood before the red door.
Before he could open it, someone grabbed him from behind and dragged him along past the red door. The door closed as soon as he reached the roof, and Rin was shoved back hard, causing his back to collide with the metallic door.
"Ouch—! Be careful—"
"Did you know about that kidnapping? You better choose your words carefully, or else—"
A blade was placed at his throat. Reina's eyes were unstable, and her hands trembled with anger and fear.
She looked like a startled animal.
Rin should have been terrified for his life. But the fear that should have been choking him at that moment was missing.
Maybe it was the situation, or maybe his desperation to prepare for the future had finally paid off. But the terror never came.
Since Rin knew the apocalypse was coming, he had imagined all kinds of terrifying situations and even placed himself in similar situations to curb his fear. But he had never felt afraid, even in those situations.
In fact, he could not even recall ever feeling genuinely afraid.
'Maybe something broke in me when I got transported to this world.'
He calmly grabbed that trembling hand and pulled it down.
"W-What are you doing? Are you not scared of me—"
"I am terrified of you at this moment."
That lie left Rin's lips, and Reina's trembling worsened.
"Are you trying to make me angrier? Do you think this is a joke? I will—"
"I won't die here. In fact, I am going to survive until the end. Didn't I tell you already? This world will descend into madness in the next three years. I am in that future as well. So I won't die. But you? You might die if you don't believe me and join my side."
Reina considered his words. She did not want to believe him. But his unnatural calmness, as well as that certainty in his eyes, weakened her resolve.
"Did you also know about the kidnapping incident because you know the future?"
"Perhaps. Whether you want to believe me or not is up to you. After all, it is a decision that will affect your life."
Rin had cast the bait, and now it was time for Reina to take it.
"I… will choose to believe you. I still have my doubts about you, but if what you are saying is true, then I want to be prepared. My sister will make it as well, right?"
Reina asked, and Rin nodded.
"Yes, she will make it. But you will both have to be separated when it's time. It's for her sake, so don't hesitate when the time comes."
Reina's shaking finally calmed down.
"Ok. I will become your ally. So, what's your plan for the future? And where do I stand in it?"
________
Drop your power stones