Ian knew he had to be careful in his decision-making regarding how to spend his biomass. Now, with 2,456 biomass in store—quite a sum—he'll be able to increase his body size to another four meters, considering that every meter increase costs 500 biomass!
With a grin, Ian didn't hesitate any longer. What is there to hesitate for? Although the upgrades of focusing on body size seem to be narrow-minded for others, it is also the current most practical. After all, increased body size means an increase of overall comprehensive battle prowess without worrying about mobility problems that usually come with big size. This is also the cheating capabilities of his body customization system!
Before that though...
'System, is 400 biomass enough to increase the flame or heat resistance of my exoskeletal armor?' Asked Ian, worriedly on his system.
After all, increasing his heat or fire resistance is a must for the current circumstances. Garry was known for his blue flame to the point he was given the "Walking Flare" title. Was Ian stupid enough to ignore this point? In battle, as long as you grasp the enemies' weaknesses and strengths, you'll be able to gain the upper hand. If he ignores Garry's blue flame, then he'll surely be the one to suffer.
[I suggest customizing/adding molybdenum metal to your exoskeletal armor. It's also enough for your 400 biomass budget. However, this metal isn't the best. I suggest to invest another 500 biomass for tungsten instead.]
What the fuck is molybdenum metal?
As if knowing about Ian's doubt, the system quickly provided an answer without Ian having to ask. The system's answer put Ian in awe.
[molybdenum, has a high melting point (around 2,623°C or 4,753°F) and is often used in steel alloys to improve heat resistance. Adding such mineral properties to your armor will considerably increase your chances against internal burns, blisters, etc...
For fire resistance, you might want to add chromium, which forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to high temperatures, making it more durable in extreme environments.]
Hearing this, Ian couldn't help but take a deep breath... Such a breath of knowledge. Could it be, that the system has alien-like advanced science knowledge?
This is what Ian was worried about initially as the system holder. Ian understood that to effectively utilize the system to its fullest, he needs to be well-versed or have advanced knowledge or expertiseinh science such as chemistry, physics, materials science, etc...
After all, only in such a way would he be able to customize incredibly practical, stronger body parts. The role of having deep knowledge of science is a game-changer to the use of his system. For example, the structure of the strongest metals like adamantium, Radeon, vibranium, etc...
With that, the body parts he makes with the system will become more effective and sophisticated. He can't just customize randomly or recklessly, right?
Although the function of the system is amazing, almost omnipotent. After all, with such a system, being able to manipulate your body to the cellular level, the sky, and the imagination is the only limit!
Only the user limits the system. Ian understood this point. To maximize the use of the system well, he needs to understand science deeper than anyone else!
But who would have known that the system itself has such an advanced scientific database? The system's suggestions made Ian realize how dumb he was!
As he thought of this, Ian couldn't help but sigh. 'System, what about Tungsten?'
[The metal that's known for its resistance to fire and heat is tungsten. It has an extremely high melting point of around 3,422°C (6,192°F), which makes it one of the best metals for handling extreme heat. It's used in applications like rocket nozzles, light bulb filaments, and various high-temperature industrial processes. Adding this property to your exoskeletal armor will help you against Garry's blue flame a lot. Don't be dumb focusing on just body size, the host.]
Ian felt a pinch, to be honest for being roasted by his system. Indeed, Ian had to admit that he was being simplistic. 'Damn it! I should have taken science subjects seriously in my past life!'
Ian didn't expect in his life, or second life, that he'll one day regret that he didn't fucking study hard. But who could blame him? On Earth, he was the most ordinary among ordinary in his past life. Yeah, he was quite good in some areas but not good enough to do the top. He knows a little bit of everything but isn't a master of anything.
Maybe it's fitting to call him the "Jack of All Trades, Master of None?" Ian wasn't someone philosophical or sentimental so even though he wasn't really master of anything, he was quite contented that he was versatile. After all, you can't choose the good of both worlds. You can only be one. Except if you are the Son of Destiny, or a cheater like him now, who has a golden finger, right?
'System. Add 3 meters height and add tungsten properties to my Exoskeletal Armor.' Ian's eyes grew determined.
The sound of clashing, the terrifying heat, the relentless shaking of the ground, and the explanation of his teammates. Ian felt all of these in the background. He doesn't have time to pay attention to the ongoing battle though.
[Understood... How about the ratio of minerals?]
As Ian heard the question, he was at a loss. He couldn't help but curse. 'Ratio? Can you skip that step and just proceed with adding Tungsten in my fucking armor!?'
[No... The ratio of minerals determines the effectiveness of your armor. The correct ratio of metals in any body part must be carefully determined.]
Ian felt frustrated at this. How could even one tell what's the correct ratio?
'Can't you help me determine the correct one and just do it? After all, you helped me with some ideas before, right?'
[That can do, the host.]
Hearing this, Ian's eyes lit up until...
[But you must pay an additional 50 Biomass for that.]