The protagonist, a 30-year-old man who was once an avid gamer, finds himself inexplicably transported into the world of "Free Build Online" (FBO), his favorite VRMMO. He awakens in the body of a small, scrawny, and dirty child in an alleyway, witnessing the game's opening parade. This is a stark contrast to the game's typical protagonist, who is a noble. Realizing he's not the main character and possesses no special blessings, his immediate priority is to find food.
Using his detailed knowledge of FBO, he navigates the city of Rendel, the capital of the southern continent. He recalls the game's mechanics, including the currency (zeni, roughly equivalent to 100 yen), the importance of adventurers, and the existence of various races like beastmen, spirits, humans, and dragon-blooded individuals. His first goal is to earn money. He remembers a "bald money-making" quest, where players could sell their hair for a significant sum. He finds a barber shop run by a woman known to players as "Hageko-san" (Ms. Baldy). After washing his hair, he sells it, receiving 150 zeni and a bandana as a bonus. This allows him to buy three meat skewers from a food stall, his first meal in this new world, which he finds incredibly delicious.
With his remaining funds, he purchases a sturdy set of work clothes and a leather pouch for his money. He then visits an accessory shop, seeking specific items: the "Trainee's Bracelet" and the "Proof of the Weak." The trainee's bracelet increases skill experience gain by 100% but prevents basic level increases for 24 hours. The proof of the weak drastically reduces basic level increases and lowers his current level by one, but it is indestructible. The shopkeeper, surprised by his unusual requests, sells him the items at a heavily discounted price due to their perceived lack of value. He buys two trainee's bracelets and twenty proofs of the weak, along with a basket.
The shopkeeper, a kind giantess, offers him shelter in an abandoned horse stable behind the shop, recognizing his dire situation. He accepts, grateful for a safe place to sleep. The next morning, he heads to the east gate to gather bamboo for the blacksmith, Ganji, who is known for his grumpy demeanor but skilled craftsmanship. He needs to collect 20 high-quality bamboo stalks to have Ganji craft a special bamboo spear. This quest, "The Beginning of a Master Craftsman," is crucial. He borrows a cart and a sickle from Ganji, and the blacksmith's wife gives him a pass to avoid gate fees.
He travels to a bamboo forest outside the city, a place he recognizes from the game. He diligently cuts bamboo, noting the differences between this world and the game, such as the physical exertion required. After a long day of labor, he returns with the bamboo. Ganji, initially reluctant, is pressured by his wife to craft a special bamboo spear with an enchantment. Using one of the "Proof of the Weak" items as an enchantment material, he requests the "Indestructible Bamboo Spear," a powerful early-game weapon that prevents the weapon from breaking. He receives the spear, along with a carrying strap, and is told to return in 30 minutes.
While waiting, he encounters Nel, the shopkeeper's daughter, a young beastkin girl. They discuss the game's systems, including levels, stats, and classes, confirming that his knowledge is applicable. Nel is eager to learn more, and they agree to talk again in three days. After receiving his spear, he returns to the stable, feeling a sense of accomplishment.
The following days are spent in the bamboo forest, hunting the weakest monsters, "Mochi," to try and obtain rare drop items. However, after three days, he has only earned 4 zeni from selling low-value magic stones, realizing his "luck sensor" is hindering his progress. He faces a dilemma: continue his planned progression or find a more immediate way to earn money. He decides to rest and prepare for his next steps.
The protagonist continues to train with his indestructible bamboo spear, which has the unique enchantment of "Indestructible" and the "Proof of the Weak" effect, making him unable to level up. This allows him to train without raising his level, which he intends to do later. He also receives food and lodging from Nel's mother, who is touched by his bond with her daughter. He plans to head to a nearby hill with a spring to hunt more Mochi, hoping to get better drops.
