As everyone knows, humans have limits.
But in front of this N-rank card, so-called limits were nothing but garbage.
Saitama, my friend, I, Jason, have officially decided to keep you.
"Achoo!"
On his way home, Saitama rubbed his nose hard.
"Strange… it's not even cold out. Why do I suddenly feel like I'm coming down with something? Forget it, I should just head home."
…
Jason's home.
Once again, the Fantasy Card transmitted a strong sense of desire.
Jason clicked his tongue.
He knew exactly how much temptation this new card, Limiter Breakthrough ACT 1, held for his Stand.
Of course I want to use it too.
Then he suddenly began rambling:
"If you want it, Goku, just say it. If you don't say it, how am I supposed to know?
Even if you look at me with sincerity, you still have to tell me.
Do you really want it or not?
If you want it, I'll give it to you. How could I possibly not give it to you?
I wouldn't give it to you if you wanted it but also refuse you when you don't want it.
Let's be reasonable here.
Now I'll count to three. Say clearly whether you want it or not.
Do you really want it? Fine, take it. Wait, you don't actually want it, do you?"
Fantasy Card: …
Considering that all his strength ultimately came from his Stand, Jason hesitated for a moment, then still decided to hand over the upgrade opportunity.
Saitama was right here in Z City anyway. Worst case, he would just treat him to a few more hotpots.
Once permission was granted, the Fantasy Card immediately devoured the special N-rank card from Jason's hand.
In an instant, a blazing blue flame erupted.
Jason saw a ring of white light envelop his Stand, as if it was transitioning from illusion into reality.
And then, it left behind something like…
An egg.
Jason stared in disbelief.
"What the hell!"
Without hesitation, he activated his ability.
A bolt of lightning appeared in his hand, forming a thunderous shuriken.
Good. The abilities already installed were still there.
That was a relief.
Clearly, after consuming a "full nutrition pack," the Fantasy Card had entered a metamorphosis state. The only problem was that it had eaten too fast. No one knew how long this evolution would take.
With a thought, Jason extended his hand toward a cup of hot tea on the table. His Stand ability activated.
Two thousand years later…
Compared to his usual instant card creation, this time there was nearly a ten-second delay.
Finally, a brand-new N-rank card appeared.
[Fantasy Card: Porcelain Tea Cup]
Card Type: Item Card
Rarity: N
Description: A normal teacup bought from a convenience store, filled with brewed tea.
Effect 1: Drink More Hot Water
Keeps the body warm, improves circulation, and may help relieve constipation and menstrual pain.
Jason glanced at the absurd description, then released the card and took a sip of tea anyway.
At least releasing cards didn't have a delay.
That meant his ultimate move, "Take This, Roller Technique", was still usable.
No problem then.
This also highlighted the advantage of a pure body-strengthening build. Even if his ability to instantly create cards in combat was temporarily affected, his overall combat power remained unchanged.
The next morning.
"Hey, Jason, I heard you got promoted. Aren't you supposed to treat us?"
"What are you talking about? Don't slander me out of nowhere."
"Still denying it? Officer Anko already told us!"
"You've been running to the chief's office every few days!"
…
After leaving the station, Jason received a special leave approval signed by Chief Bear.
From now on, aside from essential duties, he could handle hero activities during work hours without needing extra permission.
Of course, the price was another glare from Chief Bear.
After changing into casual clothes, Jason rode his scooter straight to the Z City Hero Association branch.
The building was massive and imposing, almost like a sports arena. The first impression it gave was simple: money.
Even though it was early, a long line had already formed outside.
Jason knew from the news that this was the hero recruitment queue.
Not everyone here had a heroic heart. Most were simply attracted by the generous pay.
Of course, becoming a hero was not easy. The majority would be eliminated during testing.
Take the future C-class hero "Mumen Rider" as an example. Although his record looked unimpressive, constantly losing battles, he was actually capable of handling Wolf-level and even Tiger-level threats alone, and even endured a direct hit from Deep Sea King.
That was roughly the ceiling of ordinary humans.
No need to digress further.
As an invited candidate, Jason naturally did not need to queue. He entered through the green VIP passage and stepped into the lobby.
A black-suited staff member immediately approached.
"Hello, do you have an appointment?"
Before Jason could answer, a blonde woman in a tight professional skirt stepped forward and stopped the staff.
"Qi Shi, I'll handle this guest."
"Yes, Manager Lani."
From Jason's perspective, a striking figure smiled warmly at him.
"You must be Officer Jason, correct?"
"Yes."
The blonde woman wore red-framed glasses and smiled elegantly.
"Welcome to the Hero Association. I have been instructed by Recruitment Officer Bucky to personally handle your schedule today. You may call me Lani."
Her presence was overwhelming in more ways than one.
Jason nodded calmly.
"Thank you for your trouble."
"This way, please."
Hero assessment venue.
According to Lani, Jason's test would be conducted alongside other applicants.
The difference was that theirs was a life-defining examination, while his was just a formality.
Of course, that was only because his achievements were already verified.
When they arrived, the hall was already packed.
With Lani leading him, Jason naturally became the center of attention.
The crowd quickly turned toward him, dazzled by the overwhelming presence of something "dangerous," though no cliché conflict broke out.
"Damn it! Why does that guy get a private escort from a beauty?"
"I want that too!"
"What's so special about him? Is he just a little more handsome than me?"
Jealous complaints and exaggerated reactions filled the air.
Lani seemed used to it. She smiled sweetly at Jason.
"This is the men's changing room. I won't go in further. I'll wait for you at the first test station."
"No problem. Thanks for your trouble."
Jason watched her walk away gracefully.
At the same time, he collected a wave of "positive energy" from nearby men.
"Scum."
"Beast."