By : Reyhan Arsyad Basori
Day three in Osaka.
I thought the small gesture yesterday might soften the mood. But instead—the tension only grew.
During the morning briefing, Daigo called me out.
"If you say you're here to learn with us, then prove it."
He placed a V60 dripper on the bar. Next to it, a digital scale, gooseneck kettle, and a bag of Ethiopian medium roast beans.
"We'll use manual brew. These beans have floral notes and gentle acidity. If you're truly a barista—brew for me. Show me what you know."
The other staff glanced over, some smirking.
This wasn't just a brewing challenge—it was a mental test.
[Special Challenge Unlocked: Daigo's Test]
Goal: Brew coffee that satisfies Daigo above 80%
Reward: +80 EXP + Random Brewing Precision Skill
Risk: Failure = Credibility loss with Osaka team (Reputation -10)
I gave a calm nod.
"May I check the beans first?"
Daigo handed me the bag. Sweet, floral aromas bloomed as I opened it. Jasmine, a hint of citrus.
I began: 18 grams of coffee, medium-fine grind. Heated water to 92°C, rinsed the filter, pre-wet the grounds with 30 grams of water, let it bloom for 30 seconds.
The room fell silent. All eyes on me.
Total pouring: 280 grams, steady spiral motion. Steady. Calm.
I activated Quick Focus (Lv.1) to keep my hand precise.
[Active Skill: Quick Focus Activated – Duration: 5 minutes]
Action Accuracy Boosted by 15%
Finished. I poured into the cup and offered it to Daigo without saying much.
He took a slow sip.
Paused.
Set the cup down.
Silence.
"Body is balanced. Acidity is clean. Aftertaste is light but elegant."
He looked me straight in the eye.
"…You've passed the first test, Hoshikawa."
[Challenge Complete]
+80 EXP
New Skill Unlocked: Brewing Precision (Lv.1)
Total EXP: 205/500
Osaka Team Reputation +5%
Team Resistance Reduced to 35%
Some of the staff gave me faint smiles.
The icy wall… was starting to melt.
But I knew—this was only the first step.