Chapter 27: The Dawn of Desperation
The Awakened stood in a hastily formed line, their faces a blend of determination and fear. Alden, the grizzled former military man, took the lead, his eyes scanning the horde or undead that lay ahead.
“Remember, hold the line at all costs. We can’t let them break through,” Alden barked, gripping his sword tightly.
Lyria, the newest member of Lleyn’s, stood near the center of the line. She clutched her newly acquired shield and mace, her knuckles white from the pressure.
“Here they come!” someone shouted.
Emerging from the darkness were the undead Awakened, their eyes glowing an eerie blue. They approached with weapons in hand, their movements unnaturally swift and coordinated.
“Brace yourselves!” Alden yelled.
The first clash was brutal. Swords met with shields, and the sound of metal striking metal filled the air. The defensive line held, but it was clear they were struggling. The undead were relentless, attacking with a ferocity that was almost inhuman.
“Lyria, now!” Aric shouted.
Taking a deep breath, Lyria stepped forward and swung her mace with all her might, smashing it into the skull of an approaching undead. The creature staggered back, its skull crushed, before collapsing to the ground.
“Nice hit!” said Elena, who was fighting beside her.
“Thanks,” Lyria replied, her confidence growing.
But just as it seemed like the defensive line was holding, a guttural cry echoed through the forest. A group of 10 goblins, armed with crude weapons, joined the undead, charging at the Awakened after ambushing them from the side.
“Damn it, this just got a lot worse,” muttered Dorian, parrying an attack from a goblin.
The situation became dire. The Awakened were now fighting on two fronts, and the line began to waver. Alden, realizing the gravity of the situation, moved to the weakest point in the line.
“We can’t hold much longer!” cried one of the Awakened.
“Then we make our stand here!” Alden roared, plunging his sword into an approaching goblin.
Despite their best efforts, the line broke. The undead and goblins poured through, cutting down the Awakened who couldn’t retreat in time. Alden, fighting valiantly, was overwhelmed. A goblin’s blade found its mark, piercing his side. He let out a pained grunt and fell, his eyes looking at Lleyn’s back with regret and resentment one last time before he was swarmed.
“No!” Lyria screamed, tears filling her eyes.
The Awakened fought back desperately, but it was clear they were losing. One by one, they fell, their screams echoing through the village.
And then, as quickly as it had started, it was over. The Awakened who remained were few, only about two dozens of them, their faces filled with a mixture of relief and sorrow. They had held the line, but at a terrible cost.
Lyria looked around, her eyes meeting those of Aric, Elena and Dorian. They had survived, but the weight of those who hadn’t was heavy on their shoulders.
“We did it,” Elena said softly, her voice tinged with sadness.
“But so many of us died..” Dorian replied, looking at the fallen bodies of their fellow awakened, including Alden.
Lyria clenched her fists, her eyes filled with determination.
“We’ll make them pay,” she whispered, her voice filled with a resolve that sent chills down the spines of those who heard her.
And so, the Awakened regrouped, their faces set in grim determination. They had survived the night, but as the dawn broke, it was clear that the real battle had only just begun.
*****
Lleyn burst through the doors of the defiled church, his eyes narrowing as they met the shaman’s. The creature was guarded by ten towering figures, their eyes glowing with malevolent intent.
“Ah, a new puppet for my collection,” the shaman sneered, his voice dripping with malice.
Before Lleyn could respond, a group of goblins rushed into the church, slamming the doors shut behind them. The shaman’s smile widened.
“Thank you for closing the door,” Lleyn said, his voice calm. “Now I can go all out without having to worry about anyone seeing me.”
Lleyn took a look at his status screen, somewhat of a habit of his before big fights.
Name: Lleyn
Age: 26
Level: 4
Title: Early Awakening Lv1
Health: 327/360
Mana: 330/330
Defense: 7
M. Defense: 7
Exp: 37/250
[Attributes:]
- Strength: 30 +3
- Stamina: 30
- Health: 30
- Agility: 30 +5
- Magic Power: 30
- Dexterity: 20
- Perception: 18
- Luck: 3
Unassigned Points: 45
[Innate Skills:]
- Odin’s Judgement (Level 1)
- Lightning Infusion (Level 2) – Channels the potent power of Odin’s lightning, allowing its user to infuse objects or even themselves with electrifying energy.
- Clarity (Passive) – Increases the acquisition rate of skill experience by 20%.
- Sword Mastery (Level 2) – Enhances swordsmanship skills, improving precision, fluidity, and reaction time in combat. Allows for advanced techniques and mental clarity. Damage with sword weapons increased by 22.5%
- Ley Line Channeling (Passive) (Level 2) – Constantly channels the power coursing through Ley Lines into the body to increase the power of innate skills by 15% (skills from equipment are not included).
- Magic Circuit Level 1 (Passive) (Level 1): Increased Mana Flow: +10% mana pool. Enhanced Spell Precision: -15% spell failure. Magic Affinity: +10% magical damage. Magic Resistance: -10% magical damage received.
[Equipment Skills:]
- Shadow Veil: Activate to become invisible for up to 5 minutes. Cooldown: 20 minutes. Invisibility ends abruptly if the user attacks an enemy.
- Windblast: Allows the user to unleash a focused burst of air with a quick slash of the dagger.
- Gravitational Grasp: By focusing on an object or enemy, the user can increase its gravitational pull, making it heavier and harder to move. As the skill grows, larger objects or multiple targets can be affected simultaneously. When used on enemies, their agility and strength are reduced by 15%.
[Quests:]
- The Strongest (1)
Objective: Come out as the highest ranking challenger in the first phase of the tutorial.
Rewards: 400 Gold, 20 stat points, and the Skill “Eyes of the Strongest. Lv1”
[Inventory:]
Silver Reward Box
Gold: 600
The shaman’s eyes widened in surprise, but before he could react, Lleyn’s body became enveloped in a crackling aura of electricity—Lightning Infusion. With a thought, he activated Gravitational Grasp, locking the shaman to the spot where he stood.
In a flash, Lleyn closed the distance, his sword aimed directly at the shaman’s eyes. The creature had no time to react; the blade pierced through, causing it to scream in agony. The ritual it had been performing was disrupted, its concentration shattered.
Lleyn quickly withdrew his sword, turning his attention to the ten guards. They lunged at him, but the Lightning Infusion coursing through his body made him incredibly agile. He dodged a spear thrust, sidestepped a sword swing, and parried an axe attack—all in the span of a few seconds.
One of the guards managed to get close, swinging a massive club at Lleyn. But he was too fast; he ducked under the swing and drove his sword into the guard’s abdomen, twisting the blade before pulling it out. The guard let out a guttural cry and collapsed.
Lleyn didn’t waste any time; he moved on to the next guard, his sword dancing in the air as he deflected and countered attacks. Each movement was precise, each strike calculated. One by one, the guards fell, unable to keep up with his speed and skill.
Finally, only the goblins remained. They looked at each other nervously, realizing they were now trapped in the church with a formidable opponent.
“Your turn,” Lleyn said, his eyes cold.
The goblins attacked in a frenzy, but they were no match for him. His sword moved like a blur, cutting through flesh and bone with ease. One goblin tried to sneak up behind him, but Lleyn sensed it; he spun around and decapitated it in one swift motion.
Another goblin lunged at him with a dagger, but Lleyn sidestepped and slashed it across the chest, leaving a deep wound. It staggered back, clutching its chest before falling to the ground, lifeless.
The last goblin, realizing it was the only one left, tried to flee. But Lleyn was too fast; he activated Gravitational Grasp again, forcing the creature to the ground. With a quick thrust, he ended its life.
Lleyn stood in the middle of the church, surrounded by the fallen bodies of his enemies. He looked at the shaman, who was now slumped against the altar, its eyes still pierced by his sword.
“It’s over,” Lleyn said, sheathing his sword.
[System Notification: Level Up! You have reached Level 5.]
He took a deep breath, steadying himself. The battle may have been won, but the war was far from over. As he stepped out of the church, his eyes met those of his comrades—Elena, Dorian, Selene, Aric, Lyria, and the others. They had survived the night, but at a terrible cost.
Lleyn clenched his fists, his resolve strengthening. They had won this battle, but the real challenge lay ahead.
*******************************
The Awakened, still catching their breaths, were startled by a radiant light that materialized in the center of the village square. Auralis, the Observer, appeared, his ethereal form filling the air with a sense of awe and gravitas.
“Awakened, you have survived this night, and for that, you shall be rewarded,” Auralis announced.
A holographic screen materialized before each of the Awakened, displaying their levels and contributions. They were ranked as follows:
#1 Lleyn: Level 4, Contribution 300
#2 Elena: Level 2, Contribution 38
#3 Dorian: Level 2, Contribution 32
#4 Selene: Level 2, Contribution 30
#5 Aric: Level 2, Contribution 28
#6 Lyria: Level 2, Contribution 23
#7 Tara: Level 1, Contribution 10
#8 Finn: Level 1, Contribution 8
#9 Mara: Level 1, Contribution 6
#10 Jace: Level 1, Contribution 4
“Your rewards are based on your contributions,” Auralis continued. “Lleyn, you will receive a Gold Equipment Reward Box.”
A chest of golden hue appeared before Lleyn. Upon opening it, he found a set of armor with magical properties and a new, radiant sword.
“Elena, you will receive a Silver Equipment Reward Box,” Auralis said.
A silver chest materialized before Elena, containing armor and weapons tailored to her abilities.
“As for the rest of you, you will each receive a Bronze Equipment Reward Box,” Auralis declared.
Bronze chests appeared before Dorian, Selene, Aric, Lyria, Tara, Finn, Mara, and Jace. Each box contained weapons and armor suited to their skills.
“Use these rewards wisely, Phase 1 of the Tutorial will span over seven days. Each quest will last 24 hours, followed by a day of rest.” Auralis advised and added before disappearing. “I hope at least a few of you survive to the end of Phase 1 or I will get in trouble~”
Lleyn unsheathed the sword, its blade gleaming in the morning light. The craftsmanship was exquisite, with intricate runes etched along the flat of the blade. It felt balanced and light in his hands, as if it were an extension of his own arm.
Lleyn activated his interface to check the details of the sword:
Name: Dawnblade
Damage: 7-9 Physical Damage
Special Ability: None
A smile crossed his lips. The Dawnblade, as it was named, was a significant upgrade from his previous weapon. The damage range of 5-7 physical damage might not seem like much at first glance, much weaker than the dagger he was still hiding, but Lleyn knew that it would be a great asset in the tutorial.
He took a few practice swings, feeling the blade cut through the air with ease. Each movement felt natural, each strike precise. Lleyn could already imagine how this sword would fare in battle, and he was eager to test it out.
Lleyn gathered his team in a circle, his eyes meeting each of theirs. “Let’s take a moment to check out our new gear. I’m curious to see what we’ve all got.”
First up was Elena, who held up her crossbow with a modest grin. “Here’s mine,” she said, showing off the simple weapon. It had a wooden stock and basic metal bolts.
Elena’s Crossbow: Woodwind
Damage: 5-6 Physical Damage
Special Ability: None
Dorian’s Axe: Stonecleaver
Damage: 1-5 Physical Damage
Special Ability: None
Selene’s Spear: Reedpiercer
Damage: 3-4 Physical Damage
Special Ability: None
Aric’s Sword: Ironfang
Damage: 2-4 Physical Damage
Special Ability: None
Lyria’s Staff: Sparktwig
Damage: 1-2 Magical Damage
Special Ability: Mana Bolt
As the Awakened were admiring their new weapons, Lleyn’s eyes caught the details of Lyria’s staff once more. He couldn’t help but feel a bit surprised.
Lyria’s Staff: Sparktwig
Damage: 2-4 Magical Damage
Special Ability: Mana Bolt
“Lyria, that’s quite an interesting weapon you have there,” Lleyn said, feigning ignorance. “What is this special ability? Would you mind giving us a demonstration?”
Lyria looked a bit surprised but nodded. “Sure, I can try.”
Holding Sparktwig firmly in her hands, Lyria focused her energy. The staff began to glow, its mystical symbols lighting up as it channeled her mana. With a flick of her wrist, she activated the Mana Bolt ability.
A bolt of magical energy shot out from the tip of the staff, flying straight toward a nearby wall. The bolt hit its target, leaving a visible crack in the stone. The impact was accompanied by a small burst of light and a resonating sound that filled the air.
The Awakened stared in awe, their eyes wide with surprise and newfound respect.
“Wow, that’s impressive,” Elena exclaimed.
“Definitely didn’t expect that,” Dorian added, his eyes still on the cracked wall.
Lleyn smiled, nodding approvingly. “This is amazing, Lyria. That staff is a powerful tool, and in your hands, it’s even more so.”
Lyria blushed, clearly pleased with the reaction. “Thank you, Lleyn. I’ll do my best to use it wisely. I think I can use it about 7 times before my mana runs out.”
As the Awakened continued to examine their new weapons and abilities, Lleyn felt a renewed sense of hope and unity. They were a team, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, but together, they were formidable. And as they prepared for the next set of challenges, Lleyn knew one thing for certain—they would face them as one.
Side Story 3: The Girl’s Stand: Another Front in the Tutorial
The girl stood at the edge of a hastily constructed barricade, her eyes scanning the horizon. She was part of a group of Awakened, each facing their own set of challenges in Phase 1 of the Tutorial, separate from the Area Lleyn was in. The atmosphere was tense as the final wave of enemies drew near—a horde of goblins led by a Goblin Shaman.
“Get ready,” she whispered to her comrades, her hands gripping her twin daggers. Her eyes were like steel, unyielding and focused. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest, but she pushed the nervousness away. This was not the time for fear.
With a collective growl, the goblins charged, their eyes glowing ominously. The group braced themselves, weapons poised for combat. As the goblins reached the barricade, chaos erupted. The girl moved swiftly, her daggers slicing through the air, cutting down goblins as they came.
“Keep them away from the barricade!” she commanded.
Her daggers danced in her hands as she moved with a deadly grace. A goblin lunged at her, its crude sword raised high. She sidestepped, dodging the blade and slashing across its throat in one fluid motion. Another goblin tried to flank her, but she spun around, her dagger finding its heart.
Just when it seemed they were gaining an advantage, a dark cloud gathered overhead. The Goblin Shaman had started his incantation, his staff pulsating with dark magic. A weakening curse befell the group, sapping their strength and slowing their movements.
“We have to stop that Shaman!” the girl yelled, her voice tinged with urgency.
The curse weighed heavily on her, but she fought through the fatigue. Her eyes narrowed as she focused on the Goblin Shaman, who was now chanting louder, his staff glowing brighter with each word.
Ignoring her own exhaustion, the girl gathered her remaining strength. She weaved through the battlefield, dodging attacks, her focus solely on the Goblin Shaman. Goblins snarled and swung their weapons at her, but she dodged and parried, her daggers a blur of motion. Each step was calculated, each swing precise. She was a whirlwind of death, leaving a trail of fallen goblins in her wake.
Finally, she reached her target. With a leap, she soared through the air, her daggers aimed at the creature’s heart. Time seemed to slow as she flew, her eyes locked onto the Goblin Shaman’s surprised gaze.
Her blades found their mark, piercing the Shaman’s chest and disrupting his dark spell. The creature screamed and fell, its dark aura dissipating.
With the Shaman’s defeat, the curse was lifted. Renewed, the Awakened rallied and repelled the goblin horde, scattering them into the wilderness. The girl didn’t stop to rest; she continued her assault, her daggers finding their targets with deadly accuracy. One by one, the remaining goblins fell, until none were left standing.
As she looked around, she saw her comrades doing the same, finishing off the last of the goblins. They were battered and bruised, but they were alive, and they had won.
As dawn broke, the girl stood among her comrades, weary but unbroken. They gathered around her, their faces showing a mixture of relief and exhaustion.
“We made it,” she said softly, her voice tinged with disbelief and relief. “We survived the final wave.”
One of her comrades, a young man with a makeshift spear, spoke up, “Do you ever wonder why we’re going through all this? What’s the point of this Tutorial?”
The girl looked at him, her eyes thoughtful. “I’ve wondered that too. But whatever the reason, we have to survive first to find out. And if today is any indication, we have the strength to face whatever comes next.”
Another comrade, a woman with a simple bow, added, “It’s like we’re being tested, pushed to our limits. But for what?”
The girl sheathed her daggers and looked at each of them, her eyes meeting theirs. “I don’t have the answers. But I do know this: we’re stronger together. And as long as we have each other, we can face whatever this Tutorial throws at us.”
As they nodded in agreement, the girl felt a sense of unity and resolve fill the air. They were a team, bound by the trials they had faced and the trials that were yet to come. And as they prepared for the next set of challenges, the girl knew one thing for certain—they would face them as one.
As the first rays of dawn broke over the horizon, the girl, now known as Sola, and her group of Awakened stood amidst the remnants of the battlefield. They were battered, bruised, but unbroken. The goblins had been defeated, and the Goblin Shaman’s dark magic had been vanquished. Just as they began to catch their breaths, a shimmering portal appeared before them.
From the portal stepped a figure, ethereal and majestic, much like Auralis but with a different aura. “Hello again, my dear Awakened. Its me again, your friend Seraphis, the Observer for this section of the Tutorial.”
Seraphis looked at the rankings and then at the group, his expression turning into a pout. “Well, it’s not terrible, but it’s not great either. Auralis has been bragging non-stop about having someone with 500 points under him. You all need to step up your game for me.~”
Seraphis raised his hand, and a holographic screen appeared before the group, displaying their names, levels, and contribution points.
Sola – Level 3, Contribution 97 points
Toren – Level 2, Contribution 41 points
Elara – Level 2, Contribution 24 points
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Chapter 28: The Day of Respite: Unveiling Hidden Lives
The morning sun broke through the canopy, casting a warm glow on the faces of the Awakened gathered in the clearing. About 25 of them remained, their numbers dwindled by the relentless challenges of the Tutorial. Lleyn sat with Elena, Dorian, Selene, Lyria, and Aric, his eyes scanning the faces around him. Each one told a story of struggle, loss, and the desperate will to survive.
Aric stood up, his armor clinking softly. “Listen up, everyone. We’ve lost too many people, and we can’t afford to lose any more. We need a leader, someone to guide all of us through this hellish Tutorial.”
All eyes turned to Lleyn. He felt their gazes like a physical weight, each one filled with varying degrees of expectation, hope, and desperation. Elena, his only family here, looked at him with a complex mix of emotions that he couldn’t quite decipher.
“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again,” Lleyn began, locking eyes with Aric. “I’m not your leader. I won’t be anyone’s leader.”
Aric’s eyes narrowed. “We’re talking about the lives of everyone here, Lleyn. Don’t you care about that?”
Lleyn paused, choosing his words carefully. “I care about survival, Aric. My survival and Elena’s. That’s my priority.”
The air grew thick with tension. Aric sighed, his shoulders dropping ever so slightly. “Fine. If you won’t step up, then I will. These people need someone, even if you don’t think it should be you.”
With that, Aric turned and walked away, moving toward the larger group of Awakened who had been listening intently. As he left, Lleyn felt the eyes of his team—especially Elena’s—boring into him.
Dorian broke the silence. “So, what now? We just let Aric take over?”
“We focus on ourselves,” Lleyn replied, his voice tinged with finality. “We train, we get stronger, and we survive. That’s all that matters.”
Selene looked at him, her eyes searching. “And what about the rest? The other Awakened?”
“They’re not our concern,” Lleyn said, cutting her off. “Our concern is to make it through this, whatever it takes.”
As the group dispersed, each absorbed in their own thoughts, Lleyn felt Elena’s eyes on him. He met her gaze, seeing the unspoken questions there. He knew he owed her an explanation, but not now. For now, he had made his choice, and he would live with the consequences, whatever they might be.
As he watched Aric assume the mantle of leadership for the remaining Awakened, Lleyn couldn’t help but wonder about the path he had chosen. He had refused to lead, to take on the responsibility for lives other than his own and Elena’s. It was a choice that would define him, for better or worse, as they navigated the perilous days ahead in the Tutorial.
*****
Aric’s voice echoed through the clearing as he began organizing the larger group of Awakened, assigning roles and responsibilities. Lleyn watched from a distance, his thoughts a complex web of emotions and calculations. He turned to his team, who had been quietly observing the unfolding dynamics.
The clearing buzzed with the sounds of metal clashing and concentrated breathing. Lleyn stood at its center, surveying his team as they engaged in various training exercises. Though he had no intention of leading, he recognized the importance of guiding them in honing their skills.
“Dorian, Selene, spar with each other. But remember, this is about technique, not brute force. We can’t afford injuries,” Lleyn instructed, pointing to a flat area of the clearing.
Dorian gripped his axe, and Selene readied her spear. They circled each other cautiously before their weapons met in a series of calculated strikes and parries. Dorian’s axe had the advantage in blocking and deflecting, easily handling Selene’s more straightforward spear thrusts. Selene’s eyes narrowed in concentration as she adapted her movements, learning from each interaction.
Satisfied with their progress, Lleyn turned to Elena, who was practicing her aim with her crossbow. “Elena, focus on your breathing. Synchronize it with your trigger pull. And try shooting while moving; a stationary target is an easy target.”
Elena nodded, absorbing Lleyn’s advice. She moved laterally, crossbow aimed, and released a bolt while in motion. It hit closer to the center of the target, a clear improvement. Lleyn nodded approvingly, pleased with her progress.
Finally, Lleyn approached Lyria, who looked puzzled as she held her staff. “What’s the issue, Lyria?” he asked.
“It’s this staff,” she replied. “I activated its special skill, and while the bolt was powerful, it didn’t land where I was aiming.”
Lleyn examined the staff, its intricate runes glowing softly. “Magic weapons often require a deeper connection with their wielders. Have you tried focusing more intently on your target?”
“I’ve just tried twice, but it’s like the staff has a mind of its own,” Lyria said, frustration coloring her voice.
Lleyn feigned a thoughtful look. “You know, I’ve read novels and played games where magic users meditate to better understand their abilities. Maybe you could try that? Since the Mana Bolt is created from your mana, you should be able to control its direction the same way you channel mana into the staff.”
Lyria looked skeptical but intrigued. “Meditation, you say? Well, it’s worth a try.”
She closed her eyes, taking deep, measured breaths. Her grip on the staff relaxed, and she seemed to enter a state of deep concentration. After a moment, she opened her eyes, aimed the staff at a distant tree, and released the magic. The bolt of energy shot out and, to everyone’s surprise, curved in the air, hitting the tree exactly where she had intended.
“Wow, it worked!” Lyria exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment and delight.
“Good. Now do it again. Five more times,” Lleyn instructed, watching as she repeated the process. Each time, the bolt obeyed her will, curving and twisting through the air before hitting the target.
After the seventh successful shot, Lleyn raised his hand. “Stop. How do you feel?”
“I feel… drained,” Lyria admitted, looking a bit pale.
“That’s enough for today. If your mana goes below zero, you could collapse from exhaustion. Always keep track of your limits,” Lleyn cautioned.
Lyria nodded, grateful for the advice. “Thank you, Lleyn. I feel like I’ve made real progress today.”
Lleyn turned back to Lyria. “For the rest of the training, focus on meditation. Try to sense the flow of mana within you. Understanding that flow will help you control your magic better.”
Lyria nodded and sat down, closing her eyes to meditate. Lleyn then moved on to oversee Selene and Dorian’s sparring session. Hours passed, the sun moving steadily across the sky. Just as Lleyn was correcting Selene’s spear grip, Lyria’s voice called out.
“Lleyn, I think something happened!”
He walked over to find Lyria’s eyes open, a look of wonder on her face. “I felt something click while I was meditating. I got a skill—Mana Sense.”
Lleyn smiled, genuinely pleased. “Excellent work, Lyria. That skill will serve you well.”
As the day drew to a close, Selene and Dorian, both exhausted from their intense sparring, discovered they had acquired new skills as well—Spear Mastery Lv1 for Selene and Axe Mastery Lv1 for Dorian.
“Good job, both of you,” Lleyn praised, clapping his hands together. “These skills will make you more effective in combat.”
It was then that he noticed Elena, standing off to the side, her expression crestfallen. “Elena, what’s wrong?”
“I didn’t get any skills,” she said, her voice tinged with disappointment.
Lleyn approached her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “You’ve been focusing on aim and movement, not sparring like Selene and Dorian. It’s natural that your skill acquisition would lag a bit. Just keep polishing your aim; you’ll grow in the upcoming fights.”
Elena nodded, but her eyes still held a trace of worry. “I understand, but I feel so vulnerable in melee fights. I barely have enough time to reload my crossbow.”
Lleyn considered her words carefully. “That’s a valid concern. But remember, every role is crucial. Your ranged attacks provide us with an advantage that melee fighters can’t offer. As we progress, we’ll find ways to cover those vulnerabilities. For now, focus on what you excel at.”
Elena nodded, her eyes meeting Lleyn’s. “Thank you, Lleyn. I’ll do my best.”
“And that’s all we can do,” Lleyn said, looking at his team—tired but stronger, each one finding their place in this unforgiving world. “Rest up; tomorrow is another day.”
*****************
The campfire flickered and crackled, casting a warm glow on the faces of the weary adventurers. The scent of roasting boar filled the air, a feast courtesy of Lleyn’s hunting skills. As they sat in a circle, each lost in their thoughts, Lleyn broke the silence.
“You know, this reminds me of simpler times,” he began, turning a skewer of meat over the fire. “Times when the biggest worry was what to have for dinner, not whether you’d live to see another day.”
Selene looked up, her eyes meeting the dancing flames. “I can relate. I used to be a history teacher. I spent my days discussing the past, the rise and fall of civilizations. Now, I wonder if any of it even matters.”
Dorian chuckled, his eyes twinkling in the firelight. “I was a mechanic. Spent my days under the hoods of cars, covered in grease and grime. Never thought I’d be here, swinging an axe instead of a wrench.”
Lyria, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up. “I was a psychology student. I wanted to understand the human mind, to delve into the complexities of behavior and emotion. And here we are, in a place that tests the very limits of our psyche.”
Elena sighed, her gaze distant. “I was about to graduate in computer science. I had job interviews lined up, plans for the future. And then, in the blink of an eye, everything changed.”
Aric cleared his throat, drawing the group’s attention. “I was in sales. Sold everything from kitchen appliances to furniture. It’s strange to think how those skills seem so trivial now, so disconnected from our current reality.”
Selene looked at Lleyn, her eyes searching. “What about you, Lleyn? You’ve been guiding us, but you’ve never talked about yourself.”
Lleyn took a bite of the cooked meat, savoring the flavor before speaking. “It’s really not much.. I was doing odd jobs, wasting my money on drinking and gambling until not so long ago. In contrast, youou all have quite respectable, meaningful backgrounds.”
The group looked at him, their eyes widening in surprise. They had all assumed he had a military or law enforcement background, given his leadership and survival skills.
Elena, eager to shift the mood, chimed in. “Well, he did turn his life around. He owns a large fitness and sports equipment store in the city now. ‘Leo’s Sporting Junction’.”
Dorian’s eyes widened, a look of recognition crossing his face. “Wait a minute, I’ve been to that store! It’s top-notch, really high-end stuff. Though, to be honest, most of it was out of my price range.”
Lleyn smiled, appreciating the change of topic. “Life is strange, isn’t it? One moment you’re down and out, and the next, you’re here, in a life-or-death situation, drawing on skills and experiences you never thought would matter.”
The group nodded, a newfound sense of camaraderie settling over them. They were a tapestry of past lives and lost dreams, now woven together by the harsh threads of their new reality.
“As much as our pasts define us, it’s our present that matters now,” Lleyn continued, his voice tinged with a solemnity that matched the gravity of their situation. “We’re here, in this unforgiving place, and we have to make the best of it. We have to survive, not just for ourselves, but for each other.”
The group fell silent, each lost in their thoughts, contemplating the weight of Lleyn’s words. The fire seemed to burn brighter for a moment, as if fueled by their collective nostalgia, regrets, and newfound resolve.
“Tomorrow Auralis will probably come back with a new mission,” Lleyn concluded, skewering another piece of meat and placing it over the fire. “Use this night wisely. Rest, recover, and prepare. The Tutorial is far from over, and we have a long, perilous road ahead. Phase 1 alone has 4 days of missions and God knows how many phases there are. I will do what I can to keep you all safe, but you will need to grow. Who knows when you will have to fight an enemy like that Ogre on your own.”
One by one, they retreated to their sleeping spots, the fire’s embers glowing softly in the darkness—a small but enduring symbol of their collective will to survive.
And so, the day came to an end. They were a mix of past lives and lost dreams, now bound together by the harsh realities of their new world. As they closed their eyes, the same thought echoed in their minds: Tomorrow is another day, another challenge, another step on the journey of survival.
Chapter 29: Into the Heart of Danger
Just as the morning sun began to cast its golden rays over the village, Auralis appeared in a flash of ethereal light. His form shimmered as he floated above the ground, a playful grin on his face.
“Ah, my brave Awakened! How are we feeling today? Ready for another round of fun?” Auralis chimed, his voice tinged with a mischievous tone.
The crowd of Awakened looked at each other, still weary from the previous days but intrigued by Auralis’ demeanor.
“Today’s game is a bit different,” Auralis continued, his eyes twinkling. “You see, you’ve been the hunted so far, but now it’s time for you to become the hunters! Your mission, should you choose to accept it—well, you don’t really have a choice, do you?—is to venture into the forest and defeat the enemies lurking there. Each defeated foe will drop a mark. Collect ten of these marks within the next 12 hours. Fail, and well, let’s just say you won’t like the penalty.”
With a flourish, Auralis vanished, leaving behind a crowd of Awakened buzzing with a mix of anticipation and concern.
Lleyn wasted no time. “We should split up from the other awakened. More ground covered, more marks collected,” he suggested.
The Awakened nodded, quickly forming into teams. Lleyn’s group consisted of Elena, Dorian, Selene, and Lyria. Armed and ready, they stepped into the forest, their senses heightened.
***
The forest was a labyrinth of towering trees and dense foliage. Soon enough, they encountered their first enemies—goblin-like creatures with twisted features.
“Ready… aim… fire!” Lleyn commanded softly.
Elena’s crossbow bolt soared through the air, hitting its target with deadly accuracy. Dorian’s axe and Selene’s spear dispatched the remaining foes. Each creature dropped a glowing mark, which they eagerly collected.
Elena’s training clearly paid off as she took down five more enemies, each shot as precise as the last, earning her five marks. Dorian, wielding his axe with newfound skill, collected three marks, while Selene’s spearwork earned her four.
Lyria was in a bind. Her Mana Bolt spell had missed a couple of times, and she had only managed to collect two marks.
“I’ve got enough mana for just four more shots,” she admitted, looking concerned.
Lleyn nodded. “Use it wisely. Aim only when you’re certain.”
Lyria took his advice to heart, knowing that her mana was a precious resource they couldn’t afford to waste.
“We’ve done well so far,” Lleyn said, looking at his team. “But remember, the game’s not yet. Stay focused.”
With that, they moved forward, each step taking them closer to their goal and further into the unknown.
*************
As the group continued their journey through the dense forest, Elena felt a sudden surge of energy coursing through her veins. It was as if the very essence of the forest was infusing her with vitality. Her vision sharpened, and her hands steadied as if guided by an unseen force. A notification popped up in her vision, announcing that she had acquired a new skill: Sharpshooting Lv1. It was a skill that would change the dynamics of their group forever.
“Guys, I got a new skill!” Elena exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement. She couldn’t contain her joy at this newfound ability.
Lleyn looked at her and smiled, his eyes reflecting his genuine pride. “That’s great, Elena! Let’s see it in action.”
Elena felt a newfound confidence as she shouldered her crossbow. It felt lighter in her grip, and her aim was steadier than ever before. She scanned the surroundings, and her eyes locked onto a distant goblin lurking behind a gnarled tree. With a deep breath, she steadied herself and released the bolt. It flew straight and true, hitting the goblin right between the eyes.
The creature let out a guttural screech and fell to the ground, lifeless. The group erupted in cheers as Dorian went ahead to collect another mark from a fallen enemy.
Lyria had been struggling during their previous encounters. She had exhausted her mana reserves using her Mana Bolt skill, leaving her feeling vulnerable. She glanced at her staff, which hardly helped in melee fights, then at the small dagger she had kept as a backup.
With a sigh of resignation, she unsheathed the dagger and tightened her grip. Her eyes scanned the forest, searching for any lurking threats. It didn’t take long before she spotted a goblin skulking nearby. With quick reflexes and a bit of luck, she managed to sneak up on the creature and quickly stabbed the blade into the back of its neck. The goblin let out a pitiful scream before collapsing.
A few more battles ensued, and with the assistance of the others, Lyria managed to collect her tenth mark.
“Good job, everyone. We’ve got our marks. Time to head back,” Lleyn announced, his gaze sweeping the sky. The sun revealed it was now a little past midday. The group nodded in agreement, thinking they were in for a relatively easy journey back to the village.
But fate had other plans. Just as they ventured deeper into the forest on their way home, a low, menacing growl echoed through the trees. The group froze, their eyes scanning the darkening woods with growing trepidation.
From the shadows emerged three direwolves, their eyes glowing like fiery embers in the dim light. Lleyn, their leader and protector, stepped forward, drawing the wolves’ attention away from the rest of the group.
“Stay behind me,” he ordered, his voice calm but firm. The direwolves, sensing a challenge, snarled and lunged at him, but Lleyn was prepared. With calculated movements, he dodged and parried, keeping the wolves focused solely on him. This gave the others the opportunity to attack from behind.
Elena’s bolts found their marks with deadly accuracy, Dorian’s axe sliced through fur and flesh with precision, Selene’s spear pierced through the wolves’ sides, and even Lyria’s dagger found its way into one of the wolves’ throats. Within minutes, the direwolves lay defeated, and the group let out a collective sigh of relief.
Upon reaching the village, the group felt a sense of accomplishment but also deep exhaustion. They had completed their quest, but the day had taken its toll on them physically and mentally.
Lleyn looked at his team, his eyes meeting each of theirs before he finally spoke. “I’m heading back into the forest,” he announced, his voice carrying an air of determination.
The group looked at him in disbelief. “What? Why?” Selene questioned, her eyes filled with concern.
“I’m going to kill more of them,” Lleyn replied, his voice tinged with a seriousness that made them uneasy. “But I’ll be going deeper into the forest, and I can’t guarantee your safety there.”
Despite protests from the group, Lleyn remained resolute. “I’ve got to do this. Trust me,” he said, his eyes meeting Elena’s last. She nodded, understanding that he had his reasons.
Lleyn turned and walked away, disappearing into the thickening darkness of the forest. Using the system map that had guided them thus far, he ventured deeper into the heart of the forest. His goal was clear: to hunt down as many remaining monsters as possible for additional experience and marks.
He moved swiftly and silently, his senses heightened, his sword ready for any potential threats. Lleyn took down one creature after another, collecting marks and gaining valuable experience. It was grueling work, but he was determined to make the forest safer for everyone.
But just as he thought he was making good progress, a chilling sensation crept up his spine. He turned around, his heart pounding in his chest, to find ten wraiths floating toward him. Their eyes glowed with a sinister red, and malevolence oozed from their ethereal forms. They had noticed him before he had a chance to retreat.
There was a moment of uncertainty as Lleyn assessed the situation. He was outnumbered, and the wraiths were a formidable foe with their otherworldly powers. But there was no turning back now; he had made his choice.
With his sword in hand and his resolve steeled, Lleyn prepared for what was perhaps the most challenging fight of his new life so far. The wraiths closed in, their ghostly faces twisted in malevolent grins, as if they were savoring the moment before the kill.
Lleyn wasn’t going down without a fight. He took a deep breath, tightened his grip on his sword, and lunged forward, his blade glowing with determination as he met his enemies head-on. The clash between the mortal and the supernatural was about to unfold, deep in the heart of the enchanted forest.
Chapter 30: In the Midst of Crisis
The forest was a realm of moonlight and shadow, where ancient trees stood like solemn sentinels, bearing witness to a confrontation that transcended the mortal realm. Lleyn, his heart a frenetic drumbeat in his chest, faced a daunting and enigmatic adversary—the wraiths. These spectral entities defied conventional attacks with their ethereal nature, rendering them immune to the reach of ordinary weapons.
As the first wraith, its eerie form undulating with sinister grace, drew near, Lleyn gripped his sword tightly. With a determined swing, he aimed for the core of the creature, expecting his blade to find its mark. To his dismay, the sword passed through the wraith’s form as though it were smoke. It was a disheartening revelation that his usual arsenal was powerless against these malevolent spirits.
The wraith, sensing Lleyn’s vulnerability, seized the moment. It lunged at him with elongated, skeletal fingers that seemed to reach for his very soul. Lleyn’s instincts took over, and he leaped backward with a desperate grace, narrowly avoiding the ghostly touch of those spectral fingers. It was abundantly clear that he needed to resort to an extraordinary measure if he intended to survive this dire confrontation.
With a deep breath, Lleyn activated the Lightning Infusion skill. The very essence of the skill surged through him, electrifying his senses as he channeled the elemental power of lightning into his sword. The blade crackled with electricity, casting an eerie, azure glow that bathed the surrounding darkness. It was a high-stakes gamble, a desperate gambit, but Lleyn had no other recourse. The wraiths were swift, elusive, and implacable, and Lightning Infusion was his sole beacon of hope.
With newfound determination, Lleyn faced the spectral adversaries once more. The electrified sword crackled with unrestrained energy as he swung it with precision. This time, the wraith let out a harrowing cry of agony as the lightning-infused blade struck true. Its form convulsed and shuddered before dispersing into a swirling mist of dark energy, leaving behind an unsettling chill in the air.
Lleyn’s momentary triumph was truncated as another wraith, its crimson eyes ablaze with malevolence, darted toward him. Lleyn’s electrified blade struck the creature’s spectral form, causing it to emit a blood-curdling, otherworldly scream. However, the wraith was not so easily defeated. It retaliated with spectral claws, an icy touch that bypassed Lleyn’s armor and sent a bone-chilling shiver coursing through his veins.
The battle raged on, each encounter testing Lleyn’s limits as he struggled to adapt to the relentless and unpredictable assaults of the wraiths. It was a nightmarish dance between life and death amidst the moonlit foliage, and Lleyn could feel his strength waning with each passing moment.
By the end of this intense exchange, Lleyn had managed to defeat only two more wraiths, bringing his total count to three. His health had dwindled to a precarious 170 points, and fatigue had begun to claw at him. The remaining duration of Lightning Infusion was a mere 40 seconds, and Lleyn understood that he had to continue pressing forward, for the wraiths were far from vanquished.
As he caught his breath, the remaining wraiths regrouped, their crimson eyes burning with an unrelenting hatred. Lleyn knew he could not afford to let his guard down; the battle was far from over. The forest seemed to hold its breath, as if nature itself sensed the gravity of the confrontation and the fragile balance between the mortal realm and the spectral world.
Lleyn’s eyes locked onto his spectral foes, determination burning in his gaze. He couldn’t falter now; he had to continue the fight and protect his companions waiting in the shadows. With the wraiths circling him, their spectral forms coalescing for another assault, Lleyn steeled himself for the ongoing battle, understanding that the outcome would shape not only his destiny but also the safety of those he cared for.
The forest echoed with the eerie presence of the wraiths as they closed in on Lleyn. Their crimson eyes burned with malevolence, and their spectral forms seemed to glide effortlessly through the shadows. Lleyn’s heart raced as he realized that the battle was far from over, and he had mere seconds left of his Lightning Infusion.
As the wraiths approached, Lleyn desperately assessed his situation. His health bar was dwindling, and the duration of Lightning Infusion ticked away like a death sentence. With a surge of panic, he knew he had to act fast.
In a bold move born of desperation, Lleyn assigned his remaining stat points, a total of 30, with a single-minded focus on survival. He allocated 12 points to enhance his ability to dodge attacks and identify the wraiths’ weaknesses, further sharpening his dexterity. Another 10 points went into agility, increasing his speed and agility, allowing him to evade the wraiths’ relentless assaults more effectively. Lleyn also added 5 points to his strength, hoping to grant his strikes more power and increase his chances of breaking through the wraiths’ spectral defenses. Finally, 3 points were added to his health, providing him with an additional 30 health points to withstand the imminent onslaught.
The stat allocation was a gamble—a desperate bid to turn the tide of battle in his favor. Lleyn could feel the newfound strength coursing through him as his body responded to the changes. His reflexes sharpened, and he felt a heightened sense of awareness. He was ready to face the wraiths once more.
The wraiths, sensing his resilience, circled around him, their ghostly forms shifting with an eerie fluidity. They launched coordinated attacks, their movements synchronized as they tried to overwhelm Lleyn with sheer numbers and malevolent intent.
Lleyn’s enhanced agility proved crucial as he dodged the spectral claws and ethereal strikes with remarkable finesse. It was as if time had slowed for him, and he could anticipate the wraiths’ movements before they even made them. The stat allocation had made a noticeable difference in his ability to evade their attacks.
With Lightning Infusion still coursing through his sword, Lleyn struck back with precision. The electrified blade sizzled through the air as he dispatched one wraith after another. The spectral creatures let out haunting cries of agony as the lightning-infused strikes disrupted their ethereal forms.
Despite his newfound resilience, the battle remained grueling. The wraiths were relentless, their attacks unceasing as they tried to wear Lleyn down. His health continued to decrease, and the duration of Lightning Infusion steadily dwindled.
In the midst of the chaos, Lleyn’s mind raced. He knew that he couldn’t keep this pace up for much longer. With each wraith he defeated, two more seemed to take its place. The seconds on the clock were ticking away, and his health had dropped to a perilous level.
Then, as if mocking his efforts, Lleyn heard the telltale sound—a warning beep signaling the imminent end of Lightning Infusion. He glanced at the remaining time, and dread gripped him. Only a few seconds remained on the skill’s duration, and there was no telling if he could survive without its electrifying power.
As the final moments of Lightning Infusion ticked away, Lleyn fought with every ounce of strength he had left. His movements became a blur of motion as he desperately struck at the wraiths surrounding him. Yet, as the last second vanished, the lightning energy dissipated from his sword, leaving him defenseless.
With Lightning Infusion gone, Lleyn’s strength faltered. His health had dropped below 10 points, and he knew that he was on the brink of defeat. The wraiths closed in, their spectral claws reaching out to claim him.
***********
Elena, Dorian, Selene, and Lyria stood in the dimly lit clearing at the edge of the forest, watching as Lleyn disappeared into the depths of the woods. He had left on a mission of personal vendetta, and they respected his determination, but they couldn’t simply stand idly by.
“I don’t know about you all,” Elena said, her voice firm, “but I can’t just wait here. We should do something too.”
Dorian nodded in agreement, the handle of his axe gripped tightly in his hand. “I’m with you, Elena. Let’s not let Lleyn bear all the burden.”
Selene, her spear gleaming in the dappled moonlight, chimed in, “I agree. We should try to kill some monsters on our own, earn some marks. It’ll make us stronger.”
Lyria, the group’s mage, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Her mana had been depleted in the earlier battles, but with a moment of meditation, she could feel her magical energy returning. When she opened her eyes, they glowed with a soft blue light.
“I’ve got enough mana for two Mana Bolts,” she announced. “That should help.”
With a renewed sense of purpose, the four companions ventured further into the forest, moving with caution and keeping their senses sharp. It wasn’t long before they stumbled upon a trio of small goblins, their yellow eyes gleaming with mischief as they spotted the intruders.
Elena, the group’s skilled archer, notched an arrow and took aim. Her newly acquired skill, Sharpshooting, gave her an uncanny precision that made her shots lethal. With a steady hand, she released the arrow, and it sailed through the air, finding its mark in the heart of one of the goblins. The creature let out a surprised yelp before collapsing to the forest floor.
Dorian, ever the bruiser of the group, charged forward with his axe raised. He swung it in a powerful arc, cleaving through the skull of a second goblin. The force of the blow sent the creature tumbling to the ground.
Selene, with her spear at the ready, used her agility to her advantage. She lunged at the remaining goblin, her spear finding its mark in the creature’s chest. With a swift and precise thrust, she ended its threat.
In a matter of moments, the small goblins lay defeated at their feet. Elena retrieved her arrow from the fallen creature and wiped it clean, while Dorian wiped his axe on the grass. Selene collected the marks from the fallen enemies, and Lyria, though not needed in this particular skirmish, watched over her friends with a protective eye.
As they gathered the marks, a distant and ominous sound echoed through the forest—a loud strike of thunder that reverberated through the trees. The companions exchanged uneasy glances.
The echoing boom of thunder in the distance sent a shiver down their spines, and for a moment, the group stood frozen in the dimly lit forest clearing. Elena, her eyes filled with worry and determination, was the first to react.
“We should go check it out,” she said, her voice laced with concern. “What if Lleyn is in trouble?”
Dorian, his grip tightening on the haft of his axe, exchanged a knowing look with Selene. They understood Elena’s concerns but also knew the risks involved in blindly rushing into the unknown.
“Elena,” Selene began gently, “we trust Lleyn. He’s strong and resourceful. If he’s facing a threat, he’ll handle it.”
Lyria, her eyes still glowing with the remnants of her magical power, added, “And we can’t just charge into danger without knowing what we’re up against. It could be something unrelated to Lleyn.”
Elena’s shoulders sagged, torn between her loyalty to Lleyn and the rational arguments of her friends. She knew they were right; charging blindly into an uncertain situation could put them all in danger.
Reluctantly, she nodded, her voice still tinged with worry. “You’re right. We should trust Lleyn. He’s never let us down before.”
Dorian clapped her on the back, offering a reassuring smile. “That’s the spirit. Lleyn’s got this, and we’ll have to do our part by keeping our heads clear and staying focused on our own mission.”
With their decision made, the group continued to gather the marks from the fallen goblins, their resolve unwavering. The distant thunder, while still an unsettling presence, became a backdrop to their determination. They believed in Lleyn, in his strength, and in the bond that held them together as a team.