《Shadow Steel Quest》 Chapter 1: The Fateful Encounter
My day begins like any other, with the scent of coffee wafting through the kitchen as my family prepares to face the day. My father, a kind but reserved man, gives me an encouraging smile as he heads off to work. My mother, an energetic and caring woman, pats me on the shoulder, saying, "Be careful, Damien. Remember, safety always comes first." As I make my way to school, the city of Everhaven comes alive around me. The streets are crowded with people, each with their own commitments and dreams. I walk along the sidewalk, lost in my thoughts. So far, my life has been ordinary and uneventful. But deep in my heart, I long for something more, an adventure that takes me away from the daily routine. My day in class passes slowly as I listen to the teachers talk about math and history. But my mind is elsewhere, imagining fantastical worlds and mysterious creatures. It''s only during lunch break that I have an encounter that will change the course of my life. As I walk home, my heart starts to beat faster as I notice a haunting shadow following closely behind me. I suddenly turn around, and my gaze meets the wicked eyes of a goblin, a brutal and savage creature. Adrenaline rushes through my body as I prepare for the impending battle. I don''t have any special powers or abilities like the adventurers I''ve always admired, but I can''t let fear paralyze me. With a cry of defiance, I confront the goblin with all my might. I agilely dodge its attacks and counter with punches and kicks. My mind is a storm of thoughts as I desperately try to survive. I wonder what actions I can take to defeat this relentless adversary. I can''t rely on magical abilities or powerful weapons, but I have the agility and strength of my arms and legs. I try to target the goblin''s weak points, aiming for its eyes or throat, hoping to weaken it or render it incapacitated. As the battle rages on, an inner dialogue unfolds in my mind. I wonder if I should try to escape, but I know I can''t let the goblin continue to sow terror in the city. I must defend myself and protect those I love. My legs burn, and my breath becomes labored, but I continue to fight with every fiber of my being. My fists collide with the goblin''s scaly skin as my mind focuses on every movement, trying to anticipate its attacks. But just as fatigue is starting to overwhelm me, I hear a buzz of voices coming from nearby. The adventurers, heroes I''ve always admired, have come to my rescue. With a combined attack, they defeat the goblin and pull me out of the fray. I breathe heavily as I rejoin the adventurers, grateful to be alive and unharmed. One of them approaches me, a sturdy warrior with a scar on his face. "You''re brave in your own way, kid," he says with an admiring tone. "But try not to face these creatures alone next time. Adventurers are here to protect the city and its inhabitants." I nod, acknowledging the importance of their presence. I realize that my passion for adventure must be supported by skills and knowledge. I can''t face dungeons alone, but I can learn from the adventurers and grow to become a worthy member of their community. This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. After my encounter with the goblin, the next day I feel different. I sense a vibrant energy flowing through my veins, as if something inside me has awakened. I decide to share this feeling with my parents, hoping they can understand what I''m experiencing. "Mom, Dad, I have something incredible to tell you," I announce with enthusiasm in my voice. My mother looks at me with curious eyes, while my father raises an inquisitive eyebrow. "What''s going on, Damien? Do you have an ace up your sleeve?" my father asks with a smile. "Not exactly, Dad. It''s just that... I feel different, stronger. After the encounter with the goblin, something has changed within me," I reply, trying to find the right words to describe my experience. My mother affectionately embraces me, trying to comprehend. "What do you mean by ''stronger,'' Damien? Do youmean physically stronger or is there something else?" "There''s something else, Mom. I feel like I''ve developed some kind of power. It''s hard to explain in words, but it''s as if I have a deeper connection to the world around me." My father stands up, a determined expression on his face. "Damien, I believe you may have awakened a special power. I''ve heard of an association that can analyze and evaluate the abilities of the awakened. We need to take you there and discover your talent." My heart races at the thought that what I''m experiencing is real. The three of us are determined to verify my theory, so we head to the Awakening Association. At the Association, an inspector with a glowing sphere approaches me. "I''m here to test your power, Damien. We need to understand if you have truly awakened and what rank your talent belongs to." I reach out my hand toward the sphere the inspector presents, focusing on that inner connection I''ve discovered. The sphere emits a blue light as I touch it, and an intense sensation of energy courses through me. These are your statistics: Name: Damien Riversong(f) Level: 0 Class: None Strength: 7 Speed: 10 Intelligence: 5 Resistance: 5 Mana: 10 Health: 10 Resistance: 50/50 Mana: 100/100 Health: 100/100 Abilities: None The inspector looks up. "Damien, your power belongs to the F rank, the most common and weakest. But don''t let that discourage you. You can develop and enhance your talent by becoming an adventurer. There are adventurer schools that could help you hone your skills." My heart bursts with joy. My feeling was real, and now I have the opportunity to embark on an extraordinary journey. I turn to my parents, my eyes filled with determination. "Thank you, Mom, Dad. I''ll enroll in the Adventurer School and fully develop my talent. I''m ready to face new challenges and discover my true potential." My father smiles proudly, placing a hand on my shoulder. "We''re proud of you, Damien. We can''t wait to see where this adventure will take you." With the support of my parents and the knowledge of my awakened power, I set forth into the future as a budding adventurer. My journey has just begun, and I know there will be challenges and triumphs along the way. But I''m ready to face them because now I have the strength to do so.
Chapter 2: The Academy of Adventurers The Academy of Adventurers stands majestically in the heart of the city of Everhaven. It is an imposing structure, surrounded by tall stone walls and flanked by observation towers. Its main entrance is adorned with symbols and crests that evoke the art of adventure. Inside, the corridors are vibrant and bustling with students heading to classes or preparing for daily challenges. The classrooms are equipped with modern training facilities, featuring combat dummies, simulation areas, and libraries filled with ancient tomes of magic and combat strategies. The headmaster of the Academy is a Rank A adventurer who was once considered one of the greatest battle mages. Despite being 120 years old, his appearance still commands respect. His snow-white hair falls in soft curls on his shoulders, while his sparkling eyes exude wisdom and authority. He wears a flowing robe of intense blue and carries a wooden staff intricately carved with magical symbols. The headmaster is a man full of energy and passion for training young adventurers. His words are powerful and inspire respect among students and teachers alike. He is known for his wisdom and ability to guide students to their full potential, pushing them to surpass their limits. Despite his advanced age, the headmaster actively participates in the Academy''s activities. He walks the halls with a purposeful stride, supporting and encouraging students. His presence is reassuring and instills in them the confidence needed to face the challenges awaiting them in the dungeons. The students look up to the headmaster in admiration, aspiring to emulate his deeds. His tales of past adventures inspire young aspiring adventurers to dream big and believe in their own potential. The academy is a place where his legacy with the world of adventure still lives on, providing a stimulating environment where students can learn, grow, and discover their true talents. With the headmaster as their guide and mentor, the Academy of Adventurers offers an environment rich in opportunities and knowledge. It is a place where students can forge their own destiny and prepare to become valuable adventurers, ready to explore dungeons, face dangers, and find their place in the adventurous world that awaits them. Arriving at the Academy of Adventurers, I''m filled with excitement and high expectations. I turn around one last time to wave goodbye to my parents, who smile at me proudly. "Good luck, Damien! We''re sure you''ll achieve great things here!" they encourage me. I join the crowd of hundreds of students, waiting for my turn in line. The atmosphere is electric, and a thousand questions arise in my mind about what awaits me. Finally, my turn arrives. I approach the designated spot, where a serious inspector awaits me. They observe me closely and invite me to demonstrate my talent. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! I focus entirely, giving my all to what I''m about to showcase. Through a series of tests, my talent is evaluated. The verdict is that my talent is Rank F. It is the most common and weakest talent, but I am not discouraged. I know that with dedication and hard work, I can prove my worth despite it. After the analysis, the students are divided into two groups: those with rare talents and those with common talents. I am assigned to the class of students with common talent. While I may not have an extraordinary talent, I know that determination and hard work can make a difference. Among the people taking the test, there are five students with Rank C and B talents. But there is one girl who immediately catches my attention. She is incredibly beautiful, with long blonde hair and eyes that sparkle like stars. Her smile shines like the sun and makes my heart race. I feel that something special is developing inside me. Could it be... could it be that I''ve already fallen in love? The emotions inside me are in complete chaos. I can''t stop thinking about her. Every time she looks at me or smiles, my stomach fills with butterflies and my breath quickens. It''s as if time stands still when I''m with her. I wonder if she feels the same special connection. I wonder if we could become more than just acquaintances. But at the same time, I am scared. I''m just a boy with a Rank F talent, with no fame or fortune behind me. I wonder if I''ll ever be enough for her. I wonder if I''ll ever reach her level of beauty and grace. I feel inadequate and shy, but I can''t help but hope that there''s a chance. Meanwhile, I notice that some of the boys taking the test harbor envy towards those with higher-ranked talents. These boys, in addition to having impressive talents, come from wealthy families and are the children of famous adventurers. They are used to attention and privilege, which stirs a certain degree of envy in others. As I continue to observe the girl who has captured my heart and compare myself to the talents and riches of others, I realize that love and success are not solely measured by talent or wealth. What truly matters is our dedication, authenticity, and ability to follow our hearts. I introduce myself to my new adventure companions in the class. We are a group of boys with Rank F talent, but with the will to surpass ourselves and prove our worth. I introduce myself: "I''m Damien, my talent is Rank F. I hope I can count on all of you as teammates in this adventure!" My adventure companions smile at me, warmly welcoming me into our team of common talents. Together, we will face challenges and trials, demonstrating that talent is not the sole factor determining success. We are ready to work hard, grow as adventurers, and surprise everyone by showing our courage and determination. Damien:hi, Looks like you''ll be my roommate here at the Academy. What are your names? Ryu: Hi, Damien! I''m Ryu, and this is my sister Emi. We both have Rank F talents, but we excel in combat. Our parents are Rank F adventurers. What about you? Emi: I''m Emi. I hope I can contribute to our group with my skills. Damien: Nice to meet you, Ryu and Emi. I''m also a Rank F talent, and I just woke up, so I don''t have any special abilities or combat skills. Ryu: Don''t worry, here we''ll have plenty of opportunities to learn. Emi: I''m excited to start this adventure with you. I''m sure we''ll accomplish great things together. Chapter 3: Discovering Magical Mana In the first three months of lessons at the Academy of Adventurers, myself and my talentless classmates immerse ourselves in the study of the fundamentals to become adventurers. The teachers dedicate their time to teach us the foundations of the skills necessary to survive in dungeons. Exercises to learn to use mana are an essential part of adventurer training. During the first months at the Academy of Adventurers, there are several exercises we undertake to develop our ability to perceive, manipulate, and effectively utilize mana. Here are some examples of such exercises: Mana Meditation: We begin with meditation, focusing on our breath and trying to quiet the mind. This helps us establish a deeper connection with our internal mana flow. Mana Perception: Once a solid foundation is established through meditation, we learn to perceive the flow of mana around us. The teachers guide us in identifying the presence and intensity of mana in different surrounding areas and objects. Mana Channeling: After developing the ability to perceive mana, we learn to channel it through our bodies. This can be done by focusing and visualizing the flow of mana entering our bodies and flowing through them. Mana Manipulation: Once the channeling is learned, we move on to mana manipulation. This involves learning how to shape and direct mana to create specific effects. For example, we learn to create a fireball or a protective barrier using our mana. Practical Exercises: In addition to individual practice, we also engage in group exercises. For instance, we may form mana circles by connecting our energies to increase the power and effectiveness of our spells. Simulated Combat: During combat exercises, we put our mana control skills into practice. We use mana to enhance our attacks, heal wounds, or create defenses. These exercises allow us to gain practical experience in using mana in combat situations. These exercises are repeated and refined over the course of months. As we gain more experience and mastery in mana control, we become more fluent and effective in using it. The constant training helps us develop greater awareness and control over our power, preparing us for the challenges and adventures that await us as adventurers. One of the most important lessons is about mana control, the life energy that flows within every living being. The teachers explain the importance of mana in the practice of magic and teach us how to properly channel it to achieve effective results. We constantly practice to learn to perceive and manipulate our mana flow. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. During a particular lesson, we discover our affinity with a specific element. We focus to perceive the flow of mana around us. I watch my classmates as they instinctively connect with an element, such as fire, water, earth, or air. Everyone seems to have an affinity, except for me. Disappointment and frustration nestle in my heart. Observing my classmates effortlessly mastering the element they are affiliated with, I feel excluded and inadequate. However, I know that I cannot let this lack of affinity define or limit me. While others start practicing spells related to their affinities, I dedicate myself to learning melee combat skills and improving my weapon handling abilities. I understand that even without an affinity to an element, I can still become a brave and skilled adventurer. I give my all to become the best at what I do, trying to maximize my potential. During the first three months of lessons, myself and my affinity-less classmates face challenges and obstacles with courage and determination. We support each other and form a special bond, motivating one another to overcome our limitations. Despite the lack of affinity, I don''t give up. I know that my value as an adventurer doesn''t solely depend on affinity, but on the commitment and effort I put into my training. I will continue to fight and improve my skills because I know that true strength lies in my determination and willingness to overcome any obstacle that comes my way. During the first three months at the Academy of Adventurers, I often have the chance to see the girl I''ve fallen in love with in the cafeteria. Her name is Evelyn Stormblade, a young adventurer with piercing eyes and ice-blonde hair. She is called the "Ice Goddess" by my fellow classmates because of her extraordinary beauty and her cold and reserved demeanor. Every time I see her, my heart starts beating faster, and a sense of warmth envelops me. However, her distant and reserved nature intimidates me and makes me feel insecure. I would never dare to approach her or openly declare my feelings for her, fearing rejection. Despite this, I am captivated by her magnetism and elegance. I admire the way Evelyn moves with grace and confidence, exuding an aura of power and mystery. Her icy beauty and enigmatic character make her an irresistible attraction for many of my classmates, who consider her a true treasure to conquer. Her eyes, as blue as ice, capture the sunlight, creating a magical atmosphere around her. Her presence has an almost hypnotic effect on me. I yearn to know the person behind that cold facade, but at the same time, I feel intimidated by her enchanting appearance and seemingly distant character. I wonder if one day I will have the courage to approach her and share my feelings. I hope that there is more to her icy aura, that I can discover the warmth and kindness that lie within her. Until then, I will continue to admire her from afar, dreaming that one day I will be brave enough to capture her heart. Chapter 4: The Frozen Flame: Under the Red Moon The Red Moon rises in the sky, coloring the atmosphere with an eerie glow. It''s a phenomenon that occurs only once a year, when the monsters in the surrounding forest of the academy are restless and become even more dangerous. The academy professors have forbidden the first and second-year students from going out during this night for safety reasons. As I walk through the corridors of the academy, I spot Evelyn Stormblade, a classmate who has always earned my admiration. She is a brave girl, determined to test herself by facing the monsters during the Red Moon. I approach her, trying to persuade her to give up her dangerous undertaking. Damien: Evelyn, wait! You shouldn''t go out tonight. It''s the Red Moon, and the monsters are even more dangerous than usual. Damien: (inner dialogue) Evelyn has left, ignoring my warning. I know she is a strong and determined girl, but the Red Moon brings real danger. I can''t ignore the fact that she is in danger out there. I have to make a difficult decision: to stay safely at the academy or to follow her and try to help. On one hand, if I stay here, I can protect myself and wait for the Red Moon to pass. But on the other hand, Evelyn needs help, and I can''t leave her alone to face the dangers of the monsters on this stormy night. There is something about her that compels me to follow her, to stand by her side. I realize that my decision may put myself in danger as well, but I can''t suppress my concern for Evelyn. We are classmates, we are part of this adventure together. I feel a duty to protect her and support her, even if she seems to push away my concern. I decide to follow her, despite the dangers and uncertainties that await us. I prepare my equipment and mentally prepare myself for what lies ahead. I just hope I can reach her in time and offer her my help. I walk with determination toward the exit of the academy, ready to face the Red Moon and search for Evelyn in the darkness of the night. My hope is that we will overcome these trials together and return safely to the academy. I can''t allow her to get lost in the chaos of the monsters. My duty is to protect my companions and demonstrate the true meaning of the adventuring team. Under the sinister glow of the Red Moon, the monsters, empowered and made more aggressive by the Red Moon''s power, are large and imposing. Their fiery red eyes burn with fierce determination as they approach Evelyn. Their open jaws and sharp claws threaten to tear her life away, but she remains steadfast. Evelyn faces a horde of formidable monsters. Goblins, with their fiery red eyes, gather around her, wielding their rusty weapons. Fire wolves, with their blazing flames and fiery eyes, howl in the night, ready to rip apart the flesh of their enemies. Even the horned rabbits, with their unusual size and eyes red as glowing embers, join the battle, leaping and attacking ferociously. Evelyn, with her sword in hand and her eyes shining with determination, dives into the midst of the fray. With grace and agility, she dodges the goblins'' attacks, responding with precise and powerful strikes that mercilessly bring them down. Her sharp blade clashes with the goblins'' rusty weapons, easily breaking them. The fire wolves try to get close to Evelyn, but she firmly repels them. Their fiery jaws try to bite her, but she moves swiftly, avoiding their attacks and countering with precise slashes that tear through their flaming fur. Each strike is aimed at a vital point, and the wolves fall one after another. Even the horned rabbits are not underestimated by Evelyn. Despite their seemingly harmless size, their attacks are fast and dangerous. They leap forward with their sharp horns, trying to impale her. But Evelyn demonstrates extraordinary agility, dodging their attacks and responding with quick strikes that incapacitate them. Despite the ferocity and strength of the monsters empowered by the Red Moon, Evelyn holds her own against every adversary with skill and courage. With each swing of her sword, dozens of monsters fall to the ground, defeated by her dexterity and determination. Her resolve does not waver, even in the face of the adversity that the darkness of the night brings. From a distance, I observe Evelyn''s battle and understand how great the distance is between us, even though we are both at level 0. Her B rank talent shines with skill and potential, while my modest F rank talent seems insignificant in comparison. This realization discourages me for the first time, as I realize that the distance between us will only grow larger over time. Evelyn will undoubtedly become much stronger as she levels up, while I struggle to improve, wondering if I will ever be able to reach her level of skill and power. This reality fills me with frustration and despair. A forest troll looms menacingly before us, its massive and muscular stature unsettling. Its skin is rough and dark green, as if made of tree bark. Its eyes burn with fiery red anger in its fierce expression. The troll tightly grips a huge axe, ready to strike us violently. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Without any warning, the troll lunges at Evelyn with a brutal attack. Its long, sharp fangs tear through Evelyn''s clothes, inflicting deep wounds that prevent her from continuing the fight. A wave of despair washes over me as I see my friend injured and helpless, unable to defend herself. My protective instinct kicks in as the troll raises the axe to deliver the final blow. I can''t let Evelyn suffer such a terrible fate. Without hesitation, I step in, drawing the monster''s attention to me. "Hey! It''s me you''re looking for! Leave Evelyn alone!" I shout with determination, trying to divert the troll''s attention from her. My heart pounds furiously in my chest, but I''m ready to sacrifice myself to save my adventuring companion. The troll turns toward me, its eyes burning with anger and the desire for vengeance. It charges at me with unprecedented ferocity, its axe swinging down forcefully toward me. I manage to narrowly dodge its blow, jumping aside and trying to keep its attention on me. "Come here, you ugly monster! If you want to fight, fight me!" I yell, trying to put all my courage and determination into my words. I move quickly, trying to keep the monster occupied and away from Evelyn, offering her precious time to recover. The troll seems to follow my every move, always eager to inflict its next attack. I continue to challenge it, using my skills and intelligence to defeat it or at least keep it at bay. My priority is to protect Evelyn and do everything I can to ensure her safety. I run in the opposite direction of Evelyn, desperately trying to distance myself from the troll. Every step I take, the monster seems to follow closely, always determined to reach me. My only hope is to find a way to elude its pursuit and get to safety. However, the sound of my footsteps resonates in the night air, attracting the attention of another creature. Suddenly, a rock golem emerges from the shadows, its massive and imposing body standing before me. Its structure is made of intertwined stones that seem resistant to any attack. Now I''m surrounded by two D-rank monsters, both eager to harm me. I have no choice but to try to escape this dangerous situation. My mind works frantically, searching for an escape option, butmy time is running out, and my fear increases. I start running frantically, trying to gain ground and distance myself from the two monsters. My breath is labored, my legs burn, but I can''t afford to give up. I feel the ground vibrating beneath my feet as the monsters get closer and closer. Every fiber of my being screams with fear and adrenaline, but I must remain focused. I must find a way out, a way to escape their clutches. I continue to run, trying to avoid the attacks of the troll and the golem, hoping that luck is on my side. As my heart beats rapidly in my chest, I try to stay calm. I know I can''t let my guard down, that every step I take could be crucial for my survival. I can''t allow fear to take over. My escape continues, with the monsters hot on my trail. Every moment counts, every decision could be the key to my salvation. I hope that destiny smiles upon me and that I find a way to escape from this living nightmare. As the troll and the golem engage in a fierce battle, I take advantage of the opportunity to flee. The noise of their clashes resonates in the air as I move silently and swiftly, trying to exploit the chaos of the battle to put distance between us. Their angry shouts and the sound of shattering rocks mask my footsteps as I dash through the dense surrounding vegetation. Every breath is ragged, my heart pounds fiercely in my chest, but determination propels me forward. I focus on the direction to follow, trying to avoid obstacles and traps that could slow me down. My mind is solely focused on escape, on the hope of getting far enough away from those formidable monsters. My feet move with agility, my arms part through bushes and trees, trying to trace the fastest path possible. Adrenaline floods my system as I feel the wind brush against my face and the ground disappearing beneath me. I can''t afford to let my guard down, even though the temptation to look back is strong. I remind myself that my only priority is my own safety and that every second counts. Finally, I manage to distance myself enough from them, leaving behind the echoes of their shouts and strikes that resonate in the forest. I continue to run, knowing that my escape is not yet over. The academy appears before us, like a beacon of hope in the darkness of the night. My trembling legs don''t stop as I approach the entrance and desperately call for help. The doors of the academy swing open, revealing worried and anxious faces of my classmates. Finally, Evelyn is brought to safety, entrusted to the experienced hands of the healers. As I watch Evelyn receiving the necessary care, a mix of emotions overwhelms me. I''m grateful to have her safe, but the fear of losing her again weighs heavily on me. I sit by her bedside, watching her with love and concern. I realize that I risked my life to protect her, but I can''t help but feel lucky to have her by my side. As the healers'' treatments begin to take effect, Evelyn opens her eyes, gently brushing my face with a sweet yet weak gaze. My words come out with difficulty, infused with emotion. "Evelyn... I''m so glad you''re still here. You don''t know how much I searched for you and feared losing you." A melancholic smile forms on her lips as she responds with a faint but grateful voice. "Damien... Thank you... Thank you for saving me." I hold her hand even tighter, feeling a sense of relief and joy spreading within me. "No thanks are necessary. We''re adventuring companions, we''re here to protect each other. I''ll never let you face the dangers alone." Our gazes meet, and in the moment our hands clasp, I feel a deeper connection between us. We have gone through a difficult trial together, and our determination has been strengthened. The Red Moon may have brought us dangerously close to death, but it has also cemented our bond and revealed our inner strength. Under the sinister glow of the Red Moon, the icy flame of our courage and love burns more intensely than ever. Chapter 5: Blade Training After Evelyn''s recovery, our friendship grows stronger than ever. We decide to have lunch together in the academy''s cafeteria, finding comfort and companionship in each other. As we enjoy our meal, a special bond of trust is formed between us. With an intense look in her eyes, Evelyn begins to share with me the secrets of her famous family of adventurers. She tells me about the pressures she faces from her lineage and the expectations weighing on her shoulders. She speaks of the grueling training she must endure daily, her doubts, and her fears. "I''ve always been considered the future heir of our family," she confesses with a sigh. "But sometimes, Damien, I feel overwhelmed by these expectations. I wonder if I will ever be strong enough to uphold my family''s name." My heart aches as I listen to her words. As I look at her affectionately, I understand the challenge she faces every day, fighting to prove her worth and surpass everyone''s expectations. "Hey, Damien, can I talk to you for a moment?" Evelyn asks me with a gentle smile. I sit next to her, uncertain of what she''s about to say. Evelyn seems to notice my hesitation and looks at me with determination in her eyes. "You know, I''ve noticed that you''ve never received formal training as an adventurer," she begins, pausing to make sure I''m listening carefully. "But I would really like to help you. I don''t consider your lack of experience a problem. In fact, I''m happy to have a training partner like you." I remain silent for a moment, reflecting on her words. My prideful nature would like to decline the offer, fearing that I would become a burden to Evelyn. But her confidence and support make me realize that training together could be an opportunity for growth. "Evelyn, I understand your kindness, but I wouldn''t want to be an obstacle for you," I reply sincerely, trying to express my concerns. "I''ve always wanted to be independent, and I don''t want you to feel the responsibility of having to teach me." Evelyn smiles tenderly and places a hand on my shoulder. "Damien, I never consider your desire to learn a burden. On the contrary, it''s a privilege to share my experience with you. Together, we can grow and overcome any obstacle." Her words touch me deeply. I understand that our union could lead to an even stronger friendship and mutual improvement. "I accept your offer, Evelyn," I respond with renewed determination. "It will be an honor to train with you and learn from a great adventurer like you." In that moment, I feel a special connection forming between us. We will work together, overcoming our insecurities and growing stronger in the process. From that day forward, our training sessions become a time of growth and solidarity. Evelyn guides me with patience and dedication, teaching me the basics of sword combat and helping me overcome my fears. Through our shared commitment, we develop a deep friendship and discover the potential within each of us. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. "Evelyn," I respond sincerely, trying to convey my confidence. "You''re incredible in your own way. You don''t have to prove anything to anyone. You''re strong and courageous, and your determination will carry you through any obstacle that comes your way." Her words deeply resonate with me. "Thank you, Damien. Your support means a lot to me. You''ve shown me true and genuine friendship, and for that, I will always be grateful." Evelyn: Alright, Damien, today we''ll start with the basics of sword combat. First, make sure to maintain good posture and a firm grip on the hilt. Damien: Alright, Evelyn. It seems harder than I thought, but I''ll give it my best shot. Evelyn: It''s normal to feel a bit awkward at the beginning, but with practice, it will become more natural. Now, let''s focus on the basic movements. Perform a horizontal cut from left to right, smoothly sliding the blade. Damien: Like this? (performs the movement) Evelyn: Perfect, you''re improving. Keep practicing that movement until it becomes natural for you. Now, let''s move on to a parry. Imagine blocking an opponent''s attack with your sword. Try to maintain a firm grip and absorb the impact. Damien: (performs the parry) It''s challenging to coordinate everything, but I''ll do my best. Evelyn: Well done, Damien! Don''t worry, you''ll improve with time. Now let''s try a dodge. Imagine evading a sideways attack by lowering yourself and moving laterally. Damien: (performs the dodge) Wow, it''s a fast movement. I feel like a real swordsman! Evelyn: You''ve made great progress, Damien. Remember, consistent practice is the key to improvement. Keep practicing, and soon you''ll become a skilled swordsman. Damien: Thank you, Evelyn. I really appreciate your help and patience in teaching me. I''m determined to become a brave adventurer like you. Evelyn: You''re welcome, Damien. I''m glad to be your training partner and share my knowledge with you. The first-year class prepares for their first expedition, ready to face the challenges of the dungeons. The professors are present to supervise and guide the students during the adventure. Emi, Ryu, and I come together to form a solid trio of fighters. We enter the dungeon, led by one of the professors. Soon, we find ourselves face to face with a group of goblins, wild and dangerous creatures. With our hearts pounding, gripping our weapons, we prepare for our first real battle. Emi takes the rear position, armed with her bow and arrows ready to fly. She aims with precision and shoots the arrows, hitting one of the goblins in the chest. Her attack staggers them, giving Ryu and me the opportunity to approach. Emi Tanaka is a lively and cheerful girl with brown hair and bright eyes. She is an expert in ranged weapons, with a talent of rank C. She is highly skilled in the use of bows and arrows, demonstrating precision and dexterity in hitting targets. Emi is an excellent strategist and often contributes her ideas during missions. Ryu charges forward with his sword, delivering a series of quick and powerful strikes, facing one goblin at a time. His skill in handling the weapon is evident as he blocks enemy attacks and counterattacks with precision. His fluid and powerful movements showcase his ability in close combat. Ryu Tanaka is a calm and reserved boy with slicked-back black hair. He is a proficient melee combatant, specializing in one-handed weapons such as swords and daggers. He stands out for his physical strength and endurance. Despite his reserved nature, Ryu is always ready to defend his teammates. I, with my sword in hand, try to coordinate my movements with Ryu''s. I strike the goblins with determination, aiming to maintain good posture and make the most of my abilities. Even though I am rank F, I don''t want to be a burden to my group, so I give my best to contribute to the fight. The battle intensifies as the goblins attempt to counterattack and defend themselves. We move swiftly, avoiding their attacks and trying to find their weaknesses. Emi continues to strike them with her arrows, keeping her distance and providing support to our team. Feeling stronger thanks to my training with Evelyn, I finally have the opportunity to put into practice what I have learned Chapter 6: The Exploration of the Unfathomable.
After a couple of months of intensive training, I have made enormous progress as a fighter. I am now able to take on goblins on my own, even defeating two of them simultaneously. My strength, speed, and sword skills have improved significantly. Now, together with my roommates Ryu and Emi, we venture into dungeons to defeat monsters. We have become a close-knit team, coordinating our attacks and utilizing our complementary skills. Ryu, with his extraordinary strength and endurance, confidently faces enemies in close combat. His powerful and precise strikes bring even the toughest monsters to their knees. Emi, with her precision and dexterity in archery, positions herself at a distance and accurately hits the enemies'' weak spots. Her arrows fly like bolts, inflicting significant damage. As for me, with my sword skills and agility, I swiftly move across the battlefield, attacking enemies from unexpected angles. I apply the techniques I learned from Evelyn and adapt them to my own fighting style. Every time we encounter a new monster, we put our skills and strategy into practice. Over time, we grow stronger, facing increasingly dangerous and complex enemies. Our reputation as a team of adventurers begins to spread. People talk about our exploits and the monsters we are able to defeat. Despite the difficulties and challenges we encounter along the way, we support each other and remain determined to achieve our goals. Now, we can venture into dungeons with confidence, knowing that we are ready to challenge any creature we encounter. Our adventure continues, and we look forward to discovering what the next dungeon has in store for us. We are a united team, ready to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. By defeating monsters in dungeons, we gain experience that allows us to level up. In just two months, my companions and I have managed to level up three times. Every time we face an enemy, we give our all to obtain that precious experience that propels us forward as adventurers. But it''s not just the experience we gain from monsters that is important. Each creature has a core, an item that holds a certain value. Initially, by selling slime cores and horned rabbit cores, we managed to earn $20 each at the adventurers'' guild. It was a small economic boost that allowed us to purchase basic necessities. Now, as our skills and reputation have grown, we are able to defeat more dangerous monsters like goblins. By selling their cores, we have been able to earn $50 each. It is a significant increase in our earnings, and we can finally afford to purchase F-rank equipment for novice adventurers. This new equipment has greatly enhanced our combat power. We are better protected, more agile, and able to face stronger enemies such as goblins and even orcs. We feel more secure and ready to tackle the challenges that await us in the dungeons. Leveling up and acquiring new equipment have been crucial for our progress as adventurers. Now, we are ready to face even more dangerous adventures and explore new dungeons in the hope of obtaining even more precious treasures and becoming renowned adventurers. Emi decides to invest $2000 to purchase an F-rank familiar called "Aerowhisker." This magical creature appears as a small bird with white feathers and an elegant, long tail. The Aerowhisker has the ability to manipulate wind, making it a powerful ally for Emi. Ryu decides to buy an F-rank familiar called "Terragolem." This imposing earth golem is composed of sturdy rocks and possesses extraordinary strength. Its body is engraved with runic symbols that grant it potent and protective energy. The Terragolem is capable of controlling and manipulating earth, using this ability to create defensive shields and devastating attacks. Its formidable presence and strength prove to be a valuable ally for Ryu in his dungeon adventures. Thanks to their elemental affinities and the presence of familiars, Emi and Ryu can combine their attacks to triple the damage inflicted. The Aerowhisker can generate gusts of wind that amplify the power of Emi''s attacks, while the Terragolem utilizes its connection to the earth to enhance Ryu''s abilities. This lethal combination of skills and familiars allows them to face even stronger enemies and deal significant damage during battles. Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. Not having any elemental affinity, I consider the idea of acquiring a hunting wolf s a familiar. It is known for its usefulness in combat and could help compensate for my lack of an elemental ability. However, I decide not to rush into choosing a familiar. Instead, I decide to invest my money in purchasing mana and healing potions. These potions will be crucial for emergency situations during dungeon adventures. They can regenerate my magical energy reserves and quickly heal me when needed. I realize that preparation is crucial to successfully face the challenges that I may encounter. Therefore, I focus on building an inventory of useful items that will allow me to survive and confront any obstacles. I am determined to improve my skills and always be prepared for any eventuality. We find ourselves in a new area of the dungeon, a dark and gloomy forest. The trees around us are skeletal, and withered leaves fall to the ground, creating a carpet of death and desolation. The atmosphere is dense and charged with tension as we approach the hiding place of the dungeon boss. Before us appears the formidable Giant Skeleton, an E-rank monster. Its skeletal figure stands majestically, its empty eye sockets emitting an eerie glow. Despite its bony structure, its movements are agile and fast. It is time to face our biggest challenge yet. Damien, Ryu, and Emi prepare for battle. Ryu summons his familiar, the mighty Terragolem, while Emi releases the Aerowhisker, which gracefully hovers in the air. Our familiars join us, increasing our strength and combat power. As we approach the boss, our dialogue is filled with fervor. We discuss our abilities and strategies. We realize that we must fully utilize our elemental affinities and the power of our familiars to defeat the enemy. We decide to focus Ryu''s and the Terragolem''s attacks to destabilize the boss, while Emi and I take on attacking from the flanks, leveraging our speed and precision. The battle begins, our attacks unfolding in a fierce duel. We feel the tension in our bodies, but also the determination in our hearts. We confront the boss with courage and skill, seeking to exploit every opening and defend against its powerful attacks. Damien: Guys, we''re in a tough spot. The boss is very powerful, and we need to find a way to defeat it. We must come up with an effective strategy. Emi: Yes, you''re right, Damien. We can''t underestimate it. We must maximize our abilities and find its weak point. Ryu: Exactly. We can leverage our elemental affinities. I can use the earth and my Terragolem to create defensive shields and powerful attacks. Damien: Right. Emi, you have an affinity for wind. We can use your speed and agility to attack the boss from behind and confuse it. Emi: I agree. We can distract it and create openings for our attacks. Additionally, my familiar, the Aerowhisker, can assist with long-range attacks. Damien: Great. We must also coordinate our attacks to maximize damage. We can''t let the boss recover too quickly. Ryu: Exactly. We need to be fast and precise. Let''s focus on defense when it attacks and seize every opportunity to counterattack. Damien: I''m proudto be part of this team. We are strong and have proven that we can overcome any challenge. We have the skills and determination to win. Emi: We won''t give up easily. We will fight together and emerge victorious. We are stronger than we think. Ryu: Let''s go, guys. We''re ready. Let''s face this battle with courage and intelligence. Together, we can win. As the battle continues, our synchronization and coordination strengthen. Every move is calculated, every attack targeted. We cannot afford to make mistakes. Each of our lives hangs in the balance. As the fight approaches its climax, adrenaline courses through our veins, and we finally find an opening. We leverage Ryu''s elemental affinity and the Terragolem''s ability to manipulate the earth to deliver a devastating blow to the boss. Its skeleton shakes and crumbles, leaving us victorious but exhausted. We embrace each other, happy to have overcome the trial. This battle has taught us the importance of mutual trust and strategy. We have grown as a team and as adventurers, ready to face even greater challenges that await us in the dungeon. After defeating the Giant Skeleton, we excitedly explore the surrounding area and discover special, shimmering bones of great value. As I look at the hands holding these relics, a smile of joy spreads across my face. It is a moment of great satisfaction. Ryu: Look at these bones! They''re incredible. We can earn a tidy sum by selling them. The adventurers'' guild will surely be interested in such a treasure. Emi: You''re right, Ryu. These bones are truly unique. We can earn enough to upgrade our equipment and improve our skills. Damien: It''s amazing what we can achieve through our adventures. We have worked hard, and now we can reap the rewards of our efforts. We are truly lucky to have found these bones. Ryu: And let''s not forget the Giant Skeleton''s core. It''s a rare and valuable item. I''ve heard it could be worth up to a thousand dollars. Not bad for a single item! Emi: Exactly. With our earnings, we can invest to become even stronger. We can buy better equipment and seek further challenges in the upcoming dungeons. Damien: I''m really proud of us. We have shown that we have the necessary skills to face challenges and achieve great results. I''m excited to see what the future holds. Chapter 7: The Bite of Velenosus The student, named Serena Windsor, is a young B-rank mage with long red locks and bright eyes. She is known for her magical ability and reserved nature. Since she was a child, she has been pampered by her parents, who provided her with a wide range of magic potions to enhance her abilities. Adam: Look who we have here, little Serena Windsor. It seems you''re still good for nothing. We should move you to the class of the talentless. It''s been a couple of months, but you still can''t control mana. Serena: Leave me alone, Adam. I''m surely much better than you. My talent is B-rank while yours is C-rank. You''re just envious. Adam: Oh yeah? Then prove it. Your father is a great summoner, so why don''t you summon a B-rank monster? Serena is caught off guard and doesn''t know what to do, but she doesn''t want to be bullied by Adam. Serena: As you wish, I''ll show you an E-rank monster today. Serena decides to demonstrate her talent by summoning a venomous snake. Convinced that she can control it, she enchants the magic circle and utters the incantation. Serena: Shadow of the Left, Hissing Coil, Creatures Beyond the Veil, Hear My Call!" However, due to her inexperience in handling high-rank creatures, the snake turns out to be a C-rank, beyond her control. Adam (terrified): What are you doing with that venomous snake? Do you want to kill us all? Get rid of it! Serena realizes that the snake is slipping out of her control and quickly moves away. Determined not to let it escape, she embarks on a challenging hunt to recapture the creature. Serena ignores the insults from her classmates and immerses herself in the search for the venomous snake. She traverses the school corridors, following the traces left by the creature as it moves stealthily between the walls. Serena (while running): I won''t give up. I have to prove to myself and others that I can handle this situation. Adam (sarcastically encouraging): Come on, Serena! Show us what you''re capable of! Maybe you need to call your daddy or use some magic potions to succeed. Serena (determined): I don''t need potions to prove my worth. I have enough potential and skills to do it on my own. The hunt for the venomous snake continues as Serena follows its tracks to an abandoned room. There, she finds the creature crouched in a corner, ready to defend itself. The snake, freed from Serena''s control, swiftly slithers out of the classroom, leaving behind a trail of panic and confusion. Students retreat in fear while professors try to organize themselves to contain the threat and ensure the safety of the academy. The escape of the snake creates a sense of urgent need to capture it before it can cause harm to anyone it encounters along its path. Serena (agitated): Professors, we have to do something! The snake I summoned is out of control and is endangering all the students in the academy! Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: Serena, how could you be so irresponsible? Putting your classmates'' lives at risk is unacceptable! Professor Seraphina Nightshade: You''ve endangered everyone''s safety, Serena! You can''t take the power of the creatures you summon lightly! Serena (trembling voice): I''m sorry... I didn''t mean for things to end up like this. I thought I could control it. Professor Seraphina Nightshade: It''s not enough to believe you can handle a creature of that level, Serena. You made a serious mistake. Serena: I''m willing to do whatever it takes to rectify my mistake. Let me help in capturing the snake. I''ll be more careful in the future. Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: We hope this lesson teaches you to be more responsible and understand the power and danger of magical creatures. Serena: I promise I will learn from my inexperience and make amends for the damage caused. I apologize once again for my negligence. Despite the regret and reprimand from the professors, Serena understands the gravity of the situation and commits to doing everything possible to rectify her mistake and ensure the safety of all the students at the academy. Serena had finally managed to locate the snake, and fortunately, no one had been attacked during its escape. Focused on trying to recapture it, Serena didn''t notice that the snake had silently approached her from behind, ready to strike. In a moment of courage, I stood between Serena and the snake, offering myself as a target. The snake bit me instead of Serena, saving her from a potentially lethal fate. Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: Damien, I need to talk to you about something very important. The snake you confronted, called Velenosus, is an extremely dangerous monster. Its venom is lethal for adventurers of F-rank like you. I''m sorry to say this, but you have suffered a severe bite, and the venom is spreading through your body. Damien: What does that mean? I mean... what will happen? Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: I''m sorry, Damien, but the venom of Velenosus is extremely potent and deadly for anyone with a power level lower than an A-rank adventurer. No matter how brave or skilled you are, your current strength is not enough to survive. In a few days, the venom will have a fatal effect on your body. Damien: It can''t be... Is there any way to stop the venom? Any cure or antidote? Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: I''m sorry, Damien, but at the moment, we don''t have a cure or antidote for Velenosus'' venom. It is one of the most lethal creatures out there, and only adventurers with superior talent can survive its venom. We''re doing everything we can to find a solution, but the prospects are not good at the moment. Damien: So... what should I do? Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: My advice is to spend these remaining days with your loved ones. Do the things you love, live each moment intensely. We have informed your parents, and we''re trying to support you in every way possible. Know that you have shown extraordinary courage in protecting Serena, and your sacrifice will not be forgotten. Damien: Thank you, Professor Bianchi. I will do my best to face this situation with strength and courage. Professor Elminster Shadowcrest: You performed a heroic act today, saving someone''s life, Damien. If there is a solution, we will do everything possible to find it. In the meantime, we are here to support you in every way. Serena: Mother, father, I need to talk to you. It''s my fault that Damien was bitten by the snake. The venom is consuming his body, and he only has 7 days to live. I''ve searched everywhere, but I can''t find a magical potion or remedy that can save him. Serena''s Mother: Oh, Serena, it''s not your fault. You couldn''t have predicted that the snake would escape from the classroom. We trust you, and we''ll do everything we can to help Damien. No matter how difficult it is, we''ll face this challenge together. Serena''s Father: You''re right, Serena. We''re your family, and we''ll support each other. Even if we don''t know of a specific potion, we''ll seek help from other experts or wizards. We won''t give up until we''ve exhausted all possibilities. Serena: Thank you, Mom and Dad. I''m so sorry; I wish I could do more. Damien is a precious friend, and I can''t imagine my life without him. We have to find a solution; we have to find someone who can help us. Serena''s Mother: Yes, Serena, we''ll do everything we can. Don''t give up and keep searching. There might be hope, even if it seems unlikely. Serena''s Father: Calm down, Serena. We''ll find a solution; we won''t give up. I vaguely remember a witch specialized in poisons. She lives in a city called Miraluna, far from here. Perhaps she can help us. We need to go to her as soon as possible. Serena: Miraluna... Yes, I remember hearing about that city. It will be a long journey, but if there''s even a chance of saving Damien, we have to try. Serena''s Father: Get ready for the journey; there''s not much time to waste. I''ll take care of the tickets and expenses. Despite the anxiety and worry, they have a flame of hope that pushes them forward. They know that time is against them, but they are determined to do everything they can to save Damien''s life. Evelyn: Serena, I can''t believe your foolish actions! You endangered Damien''s life, and now we''re all in this dangerous situation. You don''t understand how worried I am for him. Serena: I know, Evelyn, I''m so sorry. I didn''t want any of this to happen. But we have to find a solution; we can''t give up. I have a plan to take Damien to the poison witch in Miraluna. I believe only she can help him. Evelyn: Miraluna? I''ve heard of that place, but it''s far from here. How do you plan on taking Damien there? And what if the poison witch can''t help him? Serena: I''ve talked to my parents, and we all agree. We''ll take Damien and bring him to Miraluna. I''ve heard that the poison witch, named Zelinda, specializes in antidotes and might have a solution for the snake''s venom. We can''t let Damien die without trying everything we can. Evelyn: I understand your concern, Serena, but we have to be very cautious. We know that Zelinda''s castle is located in Miraluna, but we don''t know what awaits us. It could be dangerous. Serena: I know, Evelyn, but we can''t stop now. We need all the information we can gather to enter the castle and face the dangers that await us. Let''s ask for directions from the passersby and try to get help from anyone who knows the way to Zelinda''s castle. Evelyn: You''re right; we can''t give up. Damien''s life is at stake. Let''s ask the passersby and seek directions. Hopefully, someone can help us find Zelinda''s castle and reach it safely. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. The two friends set off, determined to reach Zelinda''s castle in Miraluna. Despite the perils of the journey and the attacks from monsters along the way, they manage to overcome adversity with their determination and skills. Finally, they stand before the majestic gate of Zelinda''s castle, ready to face new challenges to save Damien. Upon arriving in Miraluna, Serena and Evelyn discover that the castle of the formidable witch Zelinda is well known in the area. They decide to ask the locals for directions to find the way to the castle. Fortunately, the locals are well informed and provide them with the necessary guidance. However, as they approach the castle, they are attacked by a dense swarm of spiders and snakes. Huge spiders climb the walls, while snakes strike with their venomous bites. Serena and Evelyn fight courageously, using their skills and wits to defeat the monsters. As Serena and Evelyn face the swarm of snakes, they lock eyes, aware of the challenge ahead. Serena: Evelyn, we need to find a way to overcome this horde of snakes. We have the numerical advantage, but their venom could be dangerous. Evelyn: You''re right, Serena. We need to be clever and find a strategy. If we can exploit their weakness, we might have a chance. The two girls look around, searching for something that can aid them in their endeavor. Serena: I have an idea! We need something to repel the snakes, something that can temporarily render them harmless. Evelyn: But what could we use? We don''t have any special items or magic potions with us. Serena: We don''t need anything complicated. Look! There are stones on the ground. They''re large enough to throw at the snakes and drive them away. The girls gather some stones and start skillfully hurling them at the snakes, hitting them and forcing them to retreat one by one. The stones strike the snakes'' weak spots, momentarily weakening them. Evelyn: It''s working, Serena! Can you hit another one? Serena: Absolutely! Take this! The girls continue to throw stones with precision, managing to repel the snakes and create a path through which they can advance. Leveraging their timing and agility, they avoid the snakes'' bites and move through the horde. Serena: We did it! Now we can reach the castle door. Evelyn: We''ve been resourceful in finding a simple yet effective solution. Let''s keep it up, Serena! The girls encourage each other as they advance toward the castle door, ready to face the next challenge that Zelinda has in store for them. Their intellect and determination will be their primary weapons as they venture into the witch''s lair. Serena: Hello, Miss Zelinda. We''re desperate, and we''ve heard that you''re the best in your field. Our friend Damien was bitten by a venomous snake, and he needs your help. We''re here to offer you a proposal. Zelinda: Ah, foolishly courageous girls. Do you think I can be easily persuaded? What can you offer me that holds enough value? Serena: Miss Zelinda, we''re aware of your interest in money. We''re ready to make an offer that you can''t refuse. We''ll give you $10,000 in exchange for your expertise and assistance in saving Damien''s life. Zelinda: $10,000? Ridiculous! To me, that amount is insignificant. You won''t have my help for such apaltry sum. Serena: I understand your request for a more significant amount, Miss Zelinda. We''re determined to save Damien, so we''re willing to increase the offer. We propose $50,000 in exchange for your services. Zelinda: Interesting, but still not enough. You''re getting closer, but not close enough. $50,000 means nothing to a witch like me. Serena: Miss Zelinda, we''re prepared to make one final effort to convince you. We offer you $100,000 in cash, a considerable sum that surely meets your needs. Please, accept it and save our friend Damien''s life. Zelinda: $100,000... Well, it seems you''ve finally understood the value of my talent. I accept your offer. Prepare the money, and I''ll give you instructions on how to cure Damien. Zelinda: Girls, I have news for you, and it won''t be pleasant. The venom of this Velenosus snake is extremely dangerous, and there''s no known cure for it. Especially for an adventurer of F-rank like Damien, death is almost certain. Serena: No, we can''t accept that there''s nothing we can do! Is there anything else we can try? Zelinda: Actually, as I pondered the problem, an idea came to mind. There is another potential cure, but it''s a risky option. You''ll need to obtain the venom of the King Snakes. Serena: The venom of the King Snakes? And where can we find that? Zelinda: It''s a B-rank snake known as the Royal Serpent. It''s extremely dangerous and difficult to confront, but its venom might be the antidote needed to save Damien. We''ll have to go to the Dark Forest, where a permanent dungeon formed 100 years ago, a dangerous place inhabited by the most fearsome snakes, and try to capture one of these snakes. Serena: We''re willing to risk everything to save Damien. We''ll obtain the venom of the King Snakes. Please show us the way to the Dark Forest. We won''t give up! Zelinda: You''re brave, girls. Let''s go capture this monster; don''t worry, I know in which dungeon to catch one. Let''s get its venom as soon as possible. Damien''s life depends on it. The girls set out toward the Dark Forest, guided by Zelinda, the B-rank witch who has joined them to face the Royal Serpent. Along the way, Zelinda shares her knowledge of the snake''s attack patterns and abilities. Finally, they reach the location where the Royal Serpent is said to hide. Tension fills the air as they prepare for the impending encounter. Zelinda showcases her magical powers, ready to support the girls during the battle. The serpent emerges from the dense foliage of the forest, displaying its majesty and lethality. It strikes with swiftness and precision, attempting to entrap the girls with its venomous coils. Zelinda moves with agility, employing protective spells and enchantments to defend herself and the girls. The fight is intense, with the Royal Serpent''s attacks trying to overwhelm the girls'' defenses. Zelinda uses her witchcraft skills to counter the snake''s strikes while simultaneously attempting to weaken it. It''s a moment of sheer courage and determination. After a fierce battle, Zelinda manages to land a final blow on the Royal Serpent, defeating it. But just as they prepare to obtain the snake''s venom, it rises, injured but still vigorous enough to flee into the depths of the forest. Serena looks at the retreating serpent in despair, and a sense of hopelessness washes over her. It seems their attempt to obtain the venom of the King Snakes has failed. It could mean my end. Zelinda approaches the girls. "There''s no more time, even if we manage to capture the monster again, it will be too late." As Zelinda extracts the venom from my body, she notices something extraordinary. Her magical necklace, which has always reacted to dark elements, begins to vibrate and glow intensely in my presence, our eyes meet. Zelinda looks at Damien with a mix of surprise and hope. "Damien, it seems you have an affinity for the dark element. This discovery could be the key to saving you from the venom. Perhaps you have the ability to absorb it." I''m also taken aback, trying to comprehend the magnitude of this new information. "Does that mean the venom might not kill me but instead be absorbed by my body?" Zelinda nods, with a determined expression on her face. "Exactly. The dark element might be able to absorb the venom. From the reaction of my necklace, it''s a C-rank affinity, so the chances are high." The discovery of Damien''s affinity with the dark element, ranked as C, reignites hope in their hearts. Together, they decide to harness this potential solution and find a way to channel the dark element to absorb the remaining venom. But due to the loss of too much blood during the venom extraction, I faint. I wake up feeling weak and disoriented. My vision is still blurry, and I sense a profound fatigue enveloping my body. I try to get up, but my legs seem unresponsive. Zelinda approaches with concern, attempting to wake me, but my eyes refuse to fully open. It''s then that I see a strange glow in her eyes, and a mysterious smile appears on her face. In an instant, I feel her lips touching mine in a sweet and sensual kiss. A strange and unexpected energy courses through my body, as if something inside me is awakening. I find myself immersed in a vivid dream, with Zelinda as my guide. In my dream, Zelinda provides detailed instructions on how to absorb the venom. She explains that I need to focus on my affinity with the dark element and visualize the venom as a negative energy that I can transform and absorb. I follow her instructions meticulously, concentrating intensely on the venom still flowing within my body. I imagine a stream of dark energy merging with the venom, neutralizing it and absorbing it into my being. Gradually, I feel a strange sensation of calm and healing spreading throughout my body. My strength begins to return as the venom dissolves and becomes part of me. I feel reborn, stronger and more determined than ever. When I finally wake up from my dream, Zelinda''s eyes scrutinize me intently. She wears a satisfied expression on her face, as if she knows that I have done what was necessary to absorb the venom. "Damien, you''re back," she says with a tender voice. "You are now completely healed." My gratitude towards Zelinda is immense. Not only has she helped me survive, but she has also shown me the potential that lies within me. Now, together with her, we will face the consequences of this decision, ready to confront any challenges that destiny has in store for us. I feel completely rejuvenated, but I''m still confused about what has happened. I ask Zelinda to explain everything in detail, wanting to understand how it was possible to absorb the venom. Zelinda, ready to share the truth, begins to tell the story but decides to omit the part about the kiss, deeming it perhaps too intimate or inappropriate to mention. "Damien," Zelinda begins in a calm tone, "what you experienced was a very rare and special phenomenon. Your affinity with the dark element allowed you to absorb the venom, merging your power with that of the snake. Now, you also have an F-rank resistance to venom. Look at your amethyst bracelet." [You have leveled up.] These are your statistics: Name: Damien Riversong Level: 5 Title: Mark of Witch Zelinda Class: None Strength: 8 Speed: 12 Intelligence: 5 Resistance: 5 Mana: 21 Health: 10 Resistance: 10/50 Mana: 300/210 Health: 23/100 Ability: Venom Resistance (F) (Passive) Status point: 25 ability points:5 Looking at the title triggers a memory of the witch kissing me. [You have been kissed by a witch, achieving the result, "Witch Zelinda''s Kiss."] [You have obtained the title, "Mark of Witch Zelinda," mana +10] Everything starts to make sense. "Zelinda, you''ve told me everything, but I have one question. In my dream, I have memories of a kiss... Did something happen that you didn''t mention?" Zelinda looks at me with a mischievous yet gentle smile. "Damien, you have a good memory. Yes, I used a succubus spell to enter your dream and provide you with the necessary instructions to absorb the venom. You had fainted due to blood loss, and you weren''t waking up. It was an intimate and personal act of magic, but necessary for your recovery. I hope you understand." As my mind processes this information, I realize that what happened was unique and extraordinary. I feel grateful to Zelinda for saving me, and I understand that magic can take unexpected forms. Damien: Zelinda, thank you for saving me and giving me a second chance. I understand the necessity of your spell, and I''m grateful for everything you''ve done. And that kiss you gave me didn''t displease me; it was my first kiss. I had never experienced anything like that before. I was surprised and a bit confused, but now that I know, I wanted to tell you. I''m sorry if I made it seem strange. I was just caught off guard. Zelinda, touched and embarrassed by my words, is experiencing an unfamiliar sensation. Zelinda: You''re a good boy, Damien. I advise you to keep your affinity with darkness hidden. Revealing it to others won''t benefit you, but keeping it secret will be an ace up your sleeve that could save your life. Serena and Evelyn arrive, embracing me, relieved that I''m alive. I almost risked my life, but I don''t know why I believe it''s the most beautiful day of my life. I''ll never forget it. Damien: Serena, I don''t know how to thank you enough for what you''ve done for me. You were brave and determined, showing a belief in me that I had never experienced before. I''m deeply grateful for your friendship and support. Serena: Damien, you don''t have to thank me. I was happy to help you and be by your side in this adventure. You''re a special friend to me, and I wouldn''t hesitate to do everything possible to save you. We''re a team, remember? Damien: I know, Serena, but I want you to understand how important what you did is to me. You were there when I needed it most, risking your life to save mine. I will never forget it. Serena: Damien, we''re friends, and we would do anything for each other. There''s no need for thanks between us. We''re a team, and we face challenges together. Now we just need to focus on the future and what it holds. I''m glad you''re okay. Damien: Thank you, Serena. I don''t know what I would have done without you. You''ve been a true hero to me. Chapter 8: History Lesson We gathered in the conference room, with Professor Seraphina Nightshade standing before us, her presence commanding everyone''s attention. She began to tell the story of an event that took place two hundred years ago: the invasion of demons on Earth. "The Earth was thrown into chaos," Professor Nightshade began, her voice filled with sadness and determination. "The demons sought to conquer and corrupt every corner of our beloved planet. It seemed that all hope was lost." "But in the face of adversity, humanity discovered a hidden power within themselves," she continued. "They began to awaken, unlocking abilities and harnessing the essence of mana that flowed within their very souls." "The tales of magic and mythical creatures that pervade ancient legends are a testament to this power that has always resided within humanity, albeit dormant. But the demonic invasion acted as a catalyst, awakening this inner magic in many individuals." "With the awakening of their powers, men and women bravely confronted the demons," she went on. "They fought with magical skills, powerful spells, and a deep connection to the mana energy. This marked the beginning of a journey towards evolution, where science and magic merged to create a new era of progress and defense." Professor Nightshade explained how the discovery of mana power led to a deepening of scientific knowledge, leading to new discoveries, inventions, and technological advancements that contributed to countering the demonic invasion. The combination of science and magic allowed humanity to develop effective weapons and protections against the demons, ultimately leading to their defeat. "As the demons were repelled and the Earth freed from their presence, humanity found itself in a new landscape," Professor Nightshade concluded. "A world where magical power and scientific progress coexist, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges. Our task now is to continue cultivating and perfecting our magical gifts, using them to protect and guide our future." "And this is where we enter the marvelous world of the System," Professor Seraphina Nightshade continued. "An enigmatic creation of mysterious origins, resembling an interactive video game, that played a fundamental role in humanity''s fight against the demons. The System offered rewards and incentives for completing missions, allowing the purchase of never-before-seen magical potions and even the ability to transcend one''s own talent." "With the System, individuals could unlock extraordinary abilities, enhancing their magical power in ways never seen before," she explained. "It was like having a unique opportunity to achieve magical excellence and surpass one''s human limits. However, the System required careful utilization and balanced management of the accumulated resources." it is said that we could hear the voice of the gods through the system. "After the victory over the demons, the System faded away, as if it had fulfilled its mission," Professor Seraphina Nightshade explained. "However, it has not completely disappeared. Traces of its presence remain, like a subtle link between the world of the awakened and the power that once bestowed upon us." You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. If the System were ever to reactivate, it would mean only one thing: that humility is a danger. In the meantime, we have created the amethyst stone, which seems to be able to communicate with the system even though it''s not active, so we can see our status. the Amethyst Stone has proven to be a valuable tool for maintaining a connection with the System," she continued. "This magical stone, with its crystalline energy, allows the awakened to know their status and residual abilities. Through a special connection with the Amethyst Stone, it is possible to obtain information about one''s power, accumulated experience points, and progress made on the path of magical evolution." As Professor Seraphina Nightshade explained the Amethyst Stone, my mind wandered, envisioning unlocking new abilities and enhancing my own talent. I ardently desired access to the System, completing missions, earning rewards, and transforming into a renowned mage. The idea of surpassing my limits and transcending my potential filled me with enthusiasm. Regardless of the System, I committed to utilizing every resource and growing to my fullest potential as an adventurer. The difference in talent between the F rank and higher ranks is significant, but at level 0, the difference should be minimal, although higher ranks experience greater increases in statistics upon awakening.
Talent Statistics points per level Ability points per level Total
A 30 6 3000/600
B 25 5 2500/500
C 20 4 2000/400
D 15 3 1500/300
E 10 2 1000/200
F 5 1 500/100
Professor Seraphina Nightshade explains that the difference in talent between the F rank and higher ranks is destined to grow as one increases in level. This means that those at a lower level would be better off focusing on improving their abilities rather than solely on statistics. I realize that constant training and honing of my skills are essential to progress and overcome the challenges that await me. I must set aside concerns about my statistics and concentrate on my personal growth as an adventurer. Having discovered my affinity with the element of darkness, I search through books for ways to harness this power to my advantage and learn how to keep it hidden. The professor explains the concept of new gods and constellations that are gaining followers. Howeverthey note that many of these gods are actually part of the pantheon of ancient gods, just with different names. Just as the Roman and Greek gods are the same, only their names change. There is a group of fanatics known as the Templars, who dedicate themselves to the search for original relics and the pursuit of ancient legendary treasures. Among their targets are the sword Excalibur, the Holy Grail, the Crown of Atlantis, the Philosopher''s Stone, the Sword of Damocles, and many other precious historical relics. The Templars are known for their ability to decipher riddles and solve ancient mysteries in order to locate and retrieve these lost treasures. Their passion for archaeology and history drives them to explore remote locations and face dangerous beasts, but at this time none of the original relics have been found, and it is uncertain if they even exist. Chapter 9: The Silver Skeleton In the city just outside the academy, there are several magical shops that attract students in search of everything they need for their adventures. Among weapons, amulets, potions, and much more, one of the shops that has caught my attention is the Familiar Shop. I decide to take a look, and the shopkeeper approaches me with a smile. "Are you interested in getting a familiar?" he asks. I reply yes, although I want to think carefully before making such an important decision. The shopkeeper nods and invites me to follow him to the familiar section. He explains that they have a wide selection of monsters, mainly of rank D or lower. He also offers me a special deal: if I purchase one slime, I''ll get another one for free. "They only cost 100 dollars, it''s a bargain. Trust me," he assures me. If I''m looking for stronger monsters that can help me in battles, they also have rank E monsters like crimson wolves, which cost 10,000 dollars. Furthermore, as it''s my first purchase, they will give me a discount on rank D monsters. Alternatively, I can choose a rock golem, which is the cheapest among the available monsters. With 100,000 dollars, I could take one home. He shows me a brochure with over 25 types of monsters and 60 different species. I realize that these are not ordinary animals but real monsters. The shopkeeper laughs and explains the difference between an animal and a monster. Monsters have a core that they innately use to control mana. I thank the shopkeeper for the information and tell him that I will think about what I want to purchase. Next, I head to the Skill Shop. It is an imposing palace with a golden emblem depicting a lion, the emblem of the prestigious Golden Lion Guild, the richest guild in the world. On the first floor, there are some skills on display, and I can freely move around to explore them. Rank F skills are the least expensive, with prices ranging from a few thousand to 10,000 dollars. For rank E skills, they are around 100,000 dollars. Currently, I don''t have access to the higher floors, but I am already fascinated by the possibilities that await me in the world of magical abilities. I will continue to explore the shops and carefully consider my choices, seeking to find the familiar and skills that will allow me to face the challenges that await me. I venture into various magical shops, eager to find my familiar. I am aware of what I am looking for: a companion with an innate affinity for the dark element. I know it won''t be easy, but I am determined to find the perfect familiar that can aid me in my endeavors. I seek advice from experts, browse through books and scrolls in search of information. However, I realize that familiars with a disposition for darkness are rare and difficult to find. They are enigmatic creatures, often associated with ancient myths and legends. I don''t get discouraged; I continue my search with perseverance. I turn to specialized shops that offer exotic familiars and gather information from magical fairs and markets, hoping to find a clue or a vendor who can assist me in my quest. In the meantime, I study ancient texts and immerse myself in libraries, searching for information on creating familiars or spells that can attract dark creatures. I seek advice from my peers and professors, hoping that someone can guide me in the right direction. After a long search, I finally find what I''m looking for in a peculiar shop called the "Emporium of Shadows." The atmosphere is shrouded in a dark and eerie aura, and its shelves are filled with macabre and mysterious objects. Drawn to this intriguing ambiance, I approach the section dedicated to familiars and am astonished by the variety of dark creatures present. Shopkeeper: Good morning, young one. Can I assist you with something? Damien: Hello! Yes, I am in search of a familiar with an affinity for darkness. I heard that I might find some here. Shopkeeper: Ah, you''re interested in dark familiars, huh? You have an unusual taste, but you''re in the right place. We have a selection of dark creatures to choose from. Come, let me show you what we have. Damien: Fantastic! I''m curious to see what kind of creatures I could have as familiars. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Shopkeeper: Here is a row of zombies; they may seem a bit clumsy, but they definitely have darkness in their veins. Then we have bats, fascinating nocturnal creatures with extraordinary agility. Damien: Interesting options, but I''m looking for something more unique. What special options do you have here? immerse in the vast selection of skeletons in the store, each with its own eerie and captivating aura. Among the displayed skeletal creatures, one in particular caught my eye irresistibly. It was a skeleton with silver bones, emanating a dark and mysterious energy. The store clerk approached me with a smile, noticing my interest. "You''ve set your eyes on our silver skeleton," he said enthusiastically. "It''s truly a unique piece, hardly found elsewhere. It is said to possess exceptional dark power, capable of manipulating shadows and controlling dark energy like no other." His words fascinated me even more, and I felt an instinctive connection with the silver skeleton. Its bones seemed to resonate with my affinity for darkness, promising to unveil a power greater than I had ever imagined. "May... may I hold it in my hands?" I asked, eager to touch the silver skeleton and perceive its energy. The clerk nodded, granting me permission. "Certainly, young adventurer. Let the energy of the silver skeleton flow through your fingers. If you feel a harmony, it''s a sign that the two of you are destined to be companions." With a mix of excitement and reverence, I took the silver skeleton in my hands. I could sense a subtle pulse of power coursing through my fingers, an instant connection that made me feel. The store clerk smiled satisfied. "You''ve made a wise choice, young adventurer. The silver skeleton will accompany you on every quest, protecting you with its dark power and guiding you on your path." Damien: "Perfect, I''m ready to make this purchase. I really want to have these skeletons as my familiars. How can we proceed with the purchase?" Store Clerk: "Great choice! We can complete the purchase here at the counter. This particular skeleton costs $10,000. I''ll need your information and payment. After finalizing everything, you''ll be the fortunate owner of two dark-affinity skeletons." Damien: "$10,000, alright, let''s proceed. Even though it''s much more expensive, I''m willing to invest. I can''t wait to start this new adventure with my new skeletal familiars. Thank you for your help and for showing me the different available options." Store Clerk: "Congratulations on choosing your familiars! Now, to complete the transformation ceremony of the skeleton into your familiar, a special ritual needs to be performed. The cost for the ceremony is an additional $1,000. Are you interested?" Damien: "Yes, I''d like to complete the ceremony. I''m willing to pay the additional cost." Store Clerk: "Perfect! I assure you that the ceremony will strengthen the bond with your familiar even more. Let''s prepare; the ritual requires concentration and unwavering intention." Damien: "I''m ready. I''m determined to establish a deep bond with my familiar." The store clerk began arranging the necessary items for the ritual, creating a solemn and mysterious atmosphere. Following his instructions, Damien joined the store clerk at the center of the magic circle drawn on the floor. The store clerk held a magical object called the "Dark Acolyte Amulet" in his hands. It was a sparkling pendant with intricate engravings and a black gem at the center pulsating with magical energy. The amulet had the power to establish a connection between a mage and their familiar, enabling a deeper connection and greater control over the creature. With precise and focused movements, the store clerk gently placed the amulet on the silver skeleton''s chest bone. Instantly, the amulet emitted a bright light, enveloping the skeleton in a dark aura. Damien could feel the energy of the amulet merging with that of the skeleton, creating an unbreakable bond. "With this amulet, the silver skeleton shall be your familiar, bound to you for eternity," declared the store clerk solemnly. "Now, you can fully harness its affinity for darkness and use its power to your advantage. You can also give it a name." "I''ll call you Argenius," i said with determination. Name: Argenius (F+) Strength: 10 Speed: 10 Intelligence: 1 Resistance: 10 Mana: 10 Health: 10 Resistance: 100/100 Mana: 100/100 Health: 100/100 Ability: Moon Dance (F) (passive) Description: The silver skeleton is a mutated skeleton that absorbed the moonlight. It is now Damien''s familiar. ithanked the store clerk for guiding me through this important step in my magical journey. i finally have my familiar, a dark companion that will accompany me on my adventures and help me uncover the extent of my power. Store Clerk: "It was a pleasure assisting you. I''m sure you''ll enjoy your new familiars. If you need anything else, don''t hesitate to ask. Good luck with your new dark creatures!" Completing the purchase, I left the store with my new skeletal familiars in tow. Despite their scary appearance, I felt a special connection with these creatures. I realized that the true value of familiars lies not only in their strength but in the understanding and harmony that develops between them and their master. I felt excited and ready to explore the possibilities that my new familiars offered. I was aware that this was only the beginning of our journey together, and I was determined to nurture our bond, develop our skills, and harness the potential of the darkness that unites us. Chapter 10: The Hunt I am accompanied by my familiar, Argenius, Ryu with his Terragolem, and Emi with her Aerovolant. We set out on a hunt for orcs and manage to kill them thanks to our teamwork and the utilization of our familiars'' abilities. We venture deep into the dense forest, following rumors of orc encampments in the area. As we cautiously move through the vegetation, we rely on the unique abilities of our familiars to assist us in the mission. Damien: "Guys, are we ready for this orc hunt? Our familiars will give us a significant advantage." Ryu: "Absolutely, Damien! My Terragolem is ready to crush any orc that comes our way." Emi: "And my Aerovolant will provide a clear aerial view of the entire encampment. Nothing will escape our sight." As we venture into the dark forest, we get closer and closer to the orc encampment. We manage to locate their position and carefully plan the attack. Ryu''s Terragolem provides both strength and resilience. Its sturdy structure and immense power make it the perfect ally in direct confrontation. As we approach the orc encampment, Ryu commands the Terragolem to act as a shield, utilizing its formidable defense to protect the group from any potential attacks. Emi and her Aerovolant, a flying creature with extraordinary agility, take flight to gain a strategic advantage. From above, Emi explores the area, observing the movements of the orcs and relaying vital information to the rest of the team. The speed and aerial maneuvers of the Aerovolant allow me to quickly evade any orc archers or ambushes. Upon reaching the outskirts of the orc encampment, I signal my companions to prepare for an ambush. Argenius''s dark affinity is unleashed, casting a haunting shadow over the area and unsettling the orcs. They sense their fear and become disoriented, allowing Ryu and his Terragolem to charge forward, unleashing a devastating attack. Taking advantage of the orcs'' momentary distraction, Emi directs her Aerovolant to unleash powerful gusts of wind. The gusts disrupt the ranks of the orcs, further throwing them off balance and creating additional confusion. Damien: "Argenius, aim for the heart! Attack!" Ryu: "Terragolem, keep pushing forward!" Emi: "Aerovolant, strike them from above! Don''t give them a moment''s respite!" The familiars demonstrate their power and unique abilities, enabling the group''s success against the orcs. The battle is fierce, but with teamwork and strategic utilization of the familiars'' abilities, the group manages to overpower the orcs. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Damien: "We did it! Thanks to our familiars and our synergy, we managed to defeat the orcs!" Ryu: "Great job, guys! Our familiars are truly extraordinary." Working together in a synergistic manner, our trio coordinates our attacks, leveraging the element of surprise and the unique abilities of our familiars. Argenius and I strike with precision, exploiting the orcs'' vulnerabilities and aiming for their vital points. Ryu and his Terragolem provide a powerful offensive force, overwhelming the orcs with their brute strength. Emi and her Aerovolant continue to harass the orcs from above, their aerial attacks sowing chaos among their ranks. Thanks to the combined efforts and coordination of our familiars'' abilities, we successfully eliminate the orc threat. Overwhelmed and outnumbered, the orcs retreat in disarray. After successfully completing the mission, my companions and I gather the spoils of our efforts. We obtained numerous cores from the orcs, valuable magical items that hold a decent sum of value. By selling the cores on the market, we can fetch anywhere from $100 to $300 each. Additionally, we recovered some orc weapons, albeit rusty, that can still be sold. Adding up all the loot, we realize that we have accumulated a total of $3,000 to divide among ourselves. It''s our highest loot haul so far, an exceptional result considering we are a party of untalented individuals with an F rank. We are thrilled with the substantial amount we can earn from a single mission and realize that our hard work and skills are starting to bear fruit. As the nighttime sky blankets the land, we make our way back to the academy, our home away from home. Exhausted yet exhilarated, we traverse the familiar path, our steps filled with a sense of accomplishment. The journey back is filled with laughter, banter, and shared memories of the hunt. As we approach the gates of the academy, we can''t help but notice the other groups of adventurers preparing for their own missions. Their ranks boast talented individuals wielding impressive weapons and donning armor adorned with trophies of their past achievements. They exude confidence and experience, a stark contrast to our group of talentless misfits. We can''t help but feel a twinge of envy and longing to be among the esteemed ranks of those who have already embarked on challenging hunts against formidable adversaries like trolls and C-rank creatures. But we also know that our time will come. We are determined to prove ourselves, to surpass our current limitations, and earn a place of distinction among the elite adventurers. With a renewed sense of purpose, we pass through the gates of the academy. The familiar halls warmly embrace us, brimming with the vibrant energy of aspiring adventurers honing their skills. We exchange greetings and smiles with fellow students, some of whom have already embarked on their own hunts, their tales of courage and audacity further inspiring us. As we reach our modest dormitories, we can''t help but feel a sense of anticipation for what the future holds. We know the road will be arduous and filled with challenges, but we are determined to overcome them, to prove that talent is not the sole measure of success. In our little corner of the academy, we gather around a table, reviewing the spoils of our recent hunt. The gold and treasures may be modest compared to the rewards earned by more talented groups, but they serve as a testament to our perseverance and resourcefulness. We divide the rewards equally, knowing that every coin represents a step forward towards our goals. Chapter 11: Dark Power I give my utmost effort to harness my rank F affinity with the dark element to its fullest potential. First and foremost, I want to fully understand how to use this powerful force to my advantage. I reflect on the time when I managed to absorb poison with Zelinda''s help in my dream. I must remember those sensations and apply them to my dark mana. I concentrate intensely, allowing my dark mana to well up from within me. I watch in awe as it changes color, transforming into a deep black. I feel its power enveloping me, intense and heavy. And now it''s time to put my new abilities to the test. I utter the spells I have learned, such as "Mana Ball," but this time the result is completely different. The ball that forms in my hands is of an intense black, emanating a dark aura. I can sense greater power behind the spell, but I also notice that the ball moves slower than usual. I decide to experiment with "Mana Arrows," but I realize that they have become heavier and their flight is slowed. Although they are more powerful, I understand that they might be less useful in combat, as enemies would have more time to evade or block them. Therefore, I focus on "Mana Chains," a spell that was previously less potent but could be enhanced due to my affinity for darkness. The chains materialize between my hands, but I notice that they are much more solid and resistant than before. I am able to control them with astonishing precision and realize that they could be useful for immobilizing enemies during combat. Despite the slowness of the mana arrows, I realize that my new dark power can be exploited in creative ways. I can use their reduced speed to my advantage, such as creating a trap or combining the spell with other abilities to strike the enemy from different angles. I realize that I still have much to learn and experiment with to fully grasp the potential of my affinity with darkness. I am ready to train diligently and refine my spell, striving to balance the power of my dark mana with the need for speed and agility in my spells. I venture into the forest as night falls, aware of the dangers lurking among the trees. I know it is risky to go alone, especially at night, but I have confidence in my abilities and the dark power I possess. I am determined to test my spelland prove that I can face even the most dangerous monsters. As I make my way through the trees, I come across several rank F monsters. At first, they are just coursing rabbits, harmless and timid creatures. I easily dispatch them, utilizing my spell infused with my dark mana to cast rapid and effective spells. The rabbits are defeated without offering any resistance. I continue on my path and encounter a group of goblins. They are more dangerous and cunning creatures, but my determination and abilities do not waver. I approach the group of goblins with confidence, knowing that my dark mana will provide me with the strength and power I need. With dexterity, I use offensive and defensive spells to defeat the goblins one by one. My dark magic manifests as dark explosions and intense mana projectiles. The goblins attempt to counterattack, but my mastery of the dark abilities allows me to anticipate and dodge their attacks.
Despite being in a group, I manage to defeat the goblins with relative ease. My combination of dark power and precision proves to be an invaluable advantage against these enemies. Soon, the goblins lie defeated on the ground, unable to offer any further resistance. I find myself facing a group of three orcs, massive and powerful creatures. I am aware that this will be a challenging encounter, but I am ready to face the challenge. I take a deep breath and focus on my dark mana, feeling it flow through my body. The orcs approach, emitting menacing grunts, ready to strike me with their heavy weapons. I use my ability to manipulate dark mana to create a protective shield around me, absorbing some of the energy from the impending attacks. As the orcs launch their assault, I skillfully manage to evade their weapons, utilizing my agility and mastery of dark mana to move swiftly and precisely. With a quick movement, I hurl a ball of dark mana towards the first orc, hitting it squarely in the chest. The dark energy spreads through its body, weakening it. As the orc staggers, I move on to the next action. This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. I use my dark mana control abilities to create dark chains that wrap around the legs of the second orc, trapping it and preventing it from moving. I take advantage of this opportunity to focus my attack on the third orc. I unleash a series of dark mana arrows towards the third orc, targeting its vulnerable areas. The arrows move with surprising speed, majestic in their darkness. They strike the orc with precision, inflicting deep wounds. Despite the orcs'' strength and resilience, my mastery of dark mana and combat strategy prove to be a crucial advantage. I continue to evade the orcs'' attacks, utilizing their slowness to counterattack with power and precision. As the battle intensifies, I realize that I must fully harness my dark power. I concentrate, channeling my dark mana into a concentrated energy spell. I unleash a dark beam towards the first orc, hitting it squarely in the chest. The dark energy penetrates its body, causing a devastating explosion of energy. The orc falls to the ground, lifeless. The remaining two orcs, intimidated by my dark power, show signs of hesitation. I take advantage of this uncertainty to increase my pressure, continuing to unleash dark and precise attacks. With one final effort, I manage to defeat the second orc as well. Only one of the three orcs remains standing, now exhausted and frightened. I advance towards him with determination, my dark mana emanating an aura of power. I feel a mix of emotions: satisfaction for winning the battle, but also a deep awareness of the dark power I possess. As the orc falls to the ground, defeated, I realize that my mastery of dark mana has allowed me to overcome this challenge. I decide to use my rank C affinity to empower Argenius. I am aware that this will be a risky endeavor, but I am ready to take control of my dark power and harness it for the benefit of my familiar. I focus on my dark mana, feeling the flow of energy through me. I channel this potent force into Argenius''s skeleton, allowing my dark mana to merge with his silver bones. As the dark energy spreads through his body, his silver bones turn black, a symbol of the dark power that permeates them. Argenius''s stats undergo a tremendous growth, increasing fourfold compared to his original state. He now possesses incredible strength and resilience, far surpassing his previous form. The dark energy flowing through him makes him an even deadlier creature. With my empowered familiar, I venture into a new encounter with the orcs. My mastery of dark power and Argenius''s newfound strength are unstoppable. I defeat one orc after another, my dark blade cutting through their armor and my reinforced skeleton easily withstanding their attacks. Before the empowerment, defeating even a single orc seemed like an insurmountable challenge. But now, thanks to my dark mana and my innate affinity, the orcs are no longer a threat to me. I face the battle with renewed confidence, knowing that I can overcome any obstacle with the dark power I possess. Looking at the battlefield strewn with defeated orcs, I feel a mix of gratitude and satisfaction. I have proven to myself that I can harness my dark potential and overcome the most difficult challenges. My bond with Argenius has been strengthened, and together we form an unstoppable duo. I venture into the forest with my empowered familiar Argenius, eager to hunt monsters and further fuel his strength. I am aware that the price of the cores is high, but I have decided to offer them to Argenius to allow him to grow even further. I approach my loyal skeletal companion, holding the cores of the defeated monsters in my hands. The pulsating dark energy within them seems to resonate with the dark power that permeates Argenius. With a determined gesture, I offer the cores to Argenius, allowing him to absorb their power. Argenius eagerly accepts the cores, devouring them with hunger and thirst. As he consumes them, I can sense an intense energy spreading through his black skeleton. His bones vibrate with even greater power as Argenius feeds on the dark power of the cores. With each core swallowed, Argenius''s strength amplifies. His skeletal musculature strengthens, his endurance increases, and his dark aura intensifies. Argenius transforms into an even deadlier creature, ready to face enemies of greater power. I observe with pride the enhancement of Argenius, recognizing our ever-stronger bond. My sacrifice in offering the cores has been repaid with incredible growth in the power of my skeletal familiar. I decide to continue our hunt for monsters, maximizing the power of Argenius and my affinity with darkness. Together, we are a formidable and invincible force, ready to overcome any challenge the forest presents us. As we advance, hunting and defeating increasingly powerful monsters, we accumulate new cores, and Argenius feasts on their power. I am aware that each core swallowed by Argenius fuels our journey towards greatness. We are destined to become a formidable force, ready to fight any enemy that dares to cross our path. The dark power that flows within us guides us toward triumph and absolute dominance. As I return to the academy, I reflect on my nocturnal adventure and the importance of continuing to develop my skills. I am aware that there will be increasingly challenging trials to face, but I am ready to confront them with determination and confidence in my dark power. Chapter 12: Wild Hunt and The Unexpected Extortion I find myself together with Ryu and Emi, in the deep forest as we confront a forest wolf. So far, we have fought and defeated several rank F wolves without much difficulty, but this time it''s different. This wolf is a formidable enemy, a true alpha leading an even larger pack of wolves. The alpha is much larger and fiercer than its counterparts. It possesses extraordinary strength and ferocity, and its imposing appearance tells me that it has consumed a tremendous number of cores to reach this level of power. I look at my teammates and see determination in their eyes. We know that this battle will be much tougher than the previous ones, but we are ready to face the challenge. Our familiars, Argenius, Terragolem, and Aerovolant, are ready to fight by our side. Ryu, Emi, and Damien prepare to confront the pack of wolves surrounding them. The wolves, with their eyes burning with fierce determination, pounce on them in a coordinated attack. Ryu boldly faces one of the most aggressive wolves. With his unsheathed sword, Ryu moves with grace and precision, parrying the wolf''s claws and counterattacking with swift thrusts. However, in the midst of the fight, one of the wolves from the pack manages to elude his attention and lunges at him from behind. With a snarl, the wolf strikes Ryu on his left arm, inflicting a deep wound. Sharp pain radiates through his body, but Ryu clings to his determination, refusing to succumb to the pain. Emi, witnessing Ryu''s attack, rushes to his defense, keeping the other wolves at bay with her Aerovolant. The agility and speed of her familiar allow them to evade the wolves'' attacks, providing vital cover for Ryu. Damien, with Argenius, joins the fight to protect Ryu. Though he hasn''t powered up his skeleton, if the situation worsens, he will be forced to do so. Despite the injury, Ryu doesn''t give up. He maximizes his sword skills, aiming to strike the wolves with lethal precision. His determination and desire to protect his companions fuel his fight. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. As the battle rages on, Damien, with a healing potion, attempts to ease Ryu''s wound. The healing energy of his mana envelops the wound, alleviating the pain and accelerating the healing process. However, the wound is deeper than what Damien can fully heal on the battlefield. As the battle intensifies, the adventurers realize that the situation has become critical. The wolves, led by the pack leader, seem insurmountable. Their numbers and overwhelming strength test the abilities of our heroes. However, just when it seemed like all hope was lost, Adam and his talented companions come to our rescue. Adam, an experienced mage, casts powerful fire spells that burn the wolves to ashes. His companions, skilled warriors, join the fight, confronting the pack leader with incredible strength and skill. Adam: Hey, group of losers, did you see what you just did? You can''t even defeat a bunch of pups! You''re truly weak! Damien: Adam, this is not the time for mocking. We faced a much stronger pack of wolves than we anticipated. Adam: Oh, sorry, Damien. I didn''t know you had trouble with those wolves. But I must admit, you all seem a bit behind the rest of us. Ryu: Just because you''re a higher rank doesn''t mean you can make fun of us. Emi: If you were a rank F adventurer, you would have ended up just like us. Adam: Maybe you''re right, but I''m a rank B adventurer, and I haven''t even reached level 10, yet I can defeat these wolves with my eyes closed. Damien: We would have won regardless if you hadn''t intervened. It''s true because I was about to enhance my skeleton with my rank C darkness. Ryu: We are aware of our limitations and we are working to overcome them. But we don''t appreciate your criticism. Emi: Adam, the important thing is to learn from our mistakes and continue to grow. We''re not perfect, but we''re doing our best. Adam: Haha, if you really believe that, losers, I don''t have time to waste. Give me all the cores and valuable materials you''ve collected. It''s the least you can do to repay me for saving you. Damien: What? Why should we do that? The loot is the result of our hard work and adventures. Adam: Simple, because we are the strongest group, and on top of that, you are alive thanks to us. Ryu: Adam, this is unfair. We faced risks and challenges to obtain this loot, and now you want us to hand it over to you just because you think you''re superior? Emi: We cannot accept that. We are an autonomous group, and the loot rightfully belongs to us. Adam: Ah, I see you can''t face reality. You''re just a bunch of failures who delude yourselves into thinking you can be like us. But you never will be. In the end, we have no choice but to reluctantly accept. Ryu is injured, and if we don''t heal him soon, it could worsen his condition. We hand over the loot to Adam and leave. The next time I see him, he won''t get away with it so easily. Chapter 13: The Hunters Attack As I, Ryu, and Emi venture into the academy''s forest, unaware of the impending danger, we sense a strange presence in the air. It doesn''t take long for us to realize that we are not alone in this hunt. Looking around, we notice dark figures approaching. "Something''s not right," whispers Emi, her eyes fixated on a menacing-looking man cloaked in darkness. Their leader, a tall man with a thick gray beard, addresses the group with an authoritative voice: "This area is full of permanent dungeons. An easy loot we can''t ignore, even if it''s academy territory. But if we don''t get caught, we can make a lot of money." Another hunter, with a shady appearance, nods. "Exactly, boss! We''ve sold many monster cores on the black market and made a tidy sum of money. These trolls and orcs are low-level; we can take them down even with a couple of cannonballs." "But what if those kids confront us? There are B-rank kids too," asks the shady-looking hunter. The leader shakes his head. "They stand no chance against us. Even if they have great talent, most of them are low-level. Meanwhile, we are at level 100. We''ve been hunting for a long time, and this forest is full of permanent dungeons. Even the bosses are low-level; that''s why it''s a goldmine." the danger of being tricked by their abilities or poisoned, and they may even ambush us. Furthermore, even if we encounter highly talented academy students, we can use our magical weapons. The students are forbidden from using technological weapons that combine mana and firearms, which helps them refine their techniques but makes them easy targets for us. We''ll crush them like insects." The hunters find themselves facing the group of students. Their priority is to remain hidden and continue the hunt, but now they have been discovered, and they can''t let the students go alive, or they''ll have to pay fines. Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Without any warning, the group of adult hunters mercilessly attacks. Their intent is clear: they want to eliminate us to hide their illegal hunting in the academy''s forest. They are determined not to let us interfere with their shady plans. Before we can even prepare to fight, Ryu is struck by a sudden attack from one of the hunters. The pain knocks him down, and I see him trying to get back up, but the wounds slow him down considerably. "Ryu!" I exclaim, but I don''t have time to stop and worry. The situation is critical, and we have to fight for our survival. I concentrate my mana and call upon Argenius to defend us. His sinister presence fills the air as he confronts the nearest hunters. With a series of dark spells, I summon a shroud of shadows that envelops us, providing some cover. Emi is swift and acts with agility, dodging the hunters'' attacks while using her Aerovolant to unleash powerful gusts of wind to keep the adversaries at bay. Despite the desperate situation, I see a spark of determination in her eyes. The battle is intense, and the pack of hunters seems endless. They are stronger than we expected, and they caught us off guard. We can''t afford to give in. I need to find a way to counter them. "Ryu, try to recover!" I shout, trying to encourage him as I continue to cast spells against the hunters. With each attack, my affinity for magic of rank C grows stronger. The color of my skeleton''s bones becomes even more intense, and I feel a greater power flowing through me. It''s as if the danger is pushing us to the limit, bringing forth hidden resources within us. But we are not alone in this fight. As we courageously battle, a group of fifth-year academy students suddenly appears. They are led by Luke, the group''s leader, and they seem ready to protect us. "We won''t let them harm our juniors!" Luke says firmly as he and his companions prepare for the fight. Their arrival gives us new hope and strength. We join forces, fighting side by side to repel the hunters. The experience and talent of the fifth-year group are a crucial advantage. The hunters begin to falter, despite their desperate efforts. Finally, with one last barrage of attacks, we manage to defeat them and drive them away. We are exhausted but grateful for the help we received from our older companions. "This is an academy hunting zone. How dare these delinquents use it? I''ll go inform the professors right away," says Luke. We thank Luke and his companions with gratitude and return to the academy. Chapter 14: The Academy Tournament In the exciting atmosphere of the academy, the announcement of the Magic Tournament sparked great interest among students from every year. It was an epic event, an opportunity to put our skills to the test and prove who was truly the strongest among us. The excitement was palpable in the air as we prepared to participate in this competition. The news spread quickly, and the school was filled with preparations and training. Everyone wanted to showcase their worth and earn a prestigious spot in the academy''s ranking. I was no exception. It was my chance to demonstrate how much I had grown as an adventurer and how powerful my bond with Argenius was, especially since I decided to enhance my familiar with my dark affinity. The day of the tournament had arrived, and the arena was packed with students and spectators, all ready to cheer for their favorites. As I made my way to the arena, I observed the other participants with respect and curiosity. There were students from every year, each with different combat styles and abilities. It was a fascinating competition, full of surprises. The atmosphere in the academy is electrifying as the Tournament to determine the ranking of the strongest is about to begin. Students from all years can participate, and there is fierce competition among them to showcase their magical abilities. Ryu and I prepare for the battle with determination. Each of us has gained significant experience in monster hunting and improved our skills thanks to our familiars. We know that the competition will be tough, but we are ready to face it. Finally, after three battles, I have to face an opponent at my level, Ryu. We will face each other in the arena to find out who is the stronger. Damien: (focused) We''ve become stronger since we entered the academy, Ryu. Show me what you''ve learned with your Terragolem! Ryu: (smiling) I will, Damien. But I know you''ve improved your skills with your dark skeleton too! The battle begins. I use my familiar, Argenius, to launch powerful physical attacks against Ryu''s mighty Terragolem while preparing some spells. The ground trembles with every blow, but Ryu''s familiar stands firm without any effort. Ryu: (determined) You tickle me with your dark familiar, Damien. My Terragolem is ready to challenge you! Ryu''s Terragolem attacks with brute force, trying to overpower my skeleton. However, Argenius and I are agile, skillfully dodging the Terragolem''s strikes and counterattacking with precision. The battle is intense, but it ends in a draw. I didn''t have enough strength for a decisive attack, and the Terragolem wasn''t fast enough to catch me. Ryu: (smiling) It''s time to get serious. Damien: Ready to be beaten by me. Our swords clash in the air. Thanks to Evelyna, I have become quite skilled, but Ryu has much more experience than me. I manage to hold my ground, but in the end, Ryu wins. My climb in the ranking stops, and I''m disappointed with the result. With over 20 thousand students at the academy, only 3000 are participating in the ranking. With just 3 victories, I am at the bottom of the leaderboard. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. The atmosphere in the arena is charged with excitement as the battle between Evelyna and Serena is about to begin. Both students are talented and determined to showcase their magical abilities. Evelyna has an affinity for the element of water, while Serena specializes in using fire magic. Evelyna: (concentrata) Serena, I''m ready for this fight. Show me what you''ve learned! Serena: (smiling confidently) It''ll be an honor to showcase my abilities against you, Evelyna. The two girls face each other, and the arena fills with a magical aura. Evelyna makes a gesture with her hand, and a jet of water rises from the ground, surrounding her familiar, a graceful Naiad, who prepares to fight. Serena responds with a fiery spell, summoning dancing flames around her familiar, a small Fire Dragon, ready to display its power. The battle begins with a duel of spells. Evelyna casts water jets against the Fire Dragon, trying to extinguish its flames. Serena, with great skill, guides the Dragon through Evelyna''s defenses, launching fireballs at the Naiad. Evelyna: (concentrated) I must use my ability to manipulate water to my advantage! Evelyna flows her mana with greater intensity, forming a huge water wave that crashes down on the Fire Dragon. The flames are extinguished, and Serena must focus on protecting her familiar from Evelyna''s powerful attack. Serena: (determined) If you want to play with water, let''s see how you react to fire! Serena conjures a vortex of fire that swirls around the arena, approaching Evelyna and the Naiad. Evelyna responds by creating a water shield to protect her familiar from the flames. The battle is intense, and the two girls demonstrate exceptional magical skill. The familiars move with grace and agility, dodging enemy attacks and counterattacking with power. The arena is enveloped in a mix of fire and water, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Evelyna: (determined) I won''t give up, Serena! Evelyna focuses her mana, creating a compressed water sphere. With a precise strike, she launches it at Serena and the Fire Dragon. Serena, ready and quick, responds with a powerful fire sphere that clashes with Evelyna''s attack. The two magical forces clash, creating an explosion of steam. When the smoke clears, Evelyna and Serena are both tired but smiling. Serena: (smiling) You''re really skilled, Evelyna. It was an exciting battle! Evelyna: (smiling) Thank you, Serena. You''re amazing with fire magic too. The fight ends with Evelyna''s victory, and the two girls shake hands as a sign of respect and friendship. Evelyna hasn''t even used her strongest ability; she is a master of swordsmanship, but not many people know that she can use it to her advantage. The tournament continues with battles that shake the academy. Even though the students are young and inexperienced, they have a talent that will allow them to face the abyssal monsters. The tournament is over, and the ranking shows who the strongest students in the academy are. Among the top 100, there are naturally students of rank C and B, but Adam, Evelyna, and Serena are all first-year students and have still made their way into the top 200 with their talent. The prizes for the top 10 are the most coveted, as they include the Aura Potion, which allows them to unlock the aura¡ªa power that can only be acquired with years of training. The prizes for the top 100 are potions that permanently increase mana, while the top 200 receive a consolation prize of 1000 dollars. And so, the first year comes to an end. I''ve made new friends and discovered my potential and talent. I can''t wait to see what the future holds for me. Chapter 15: Summer Holidays Finally, the long-awaited moment has arrived: summer vacation has begun, and I can return home to my parents. While I was at the academy, I kept in touch with them through my smartphone, but now I can finally see them in person. I''m so happy and excited! As soon as I step foot at home, Mom and Dad embrace me warmly. I immediately feel at home, surrounded by the love of my dear ones. We have so much to share, and as we exchange stories, I realize how much I missed them. Damien: Mom, it''s been amazing! At the academy, I met truly fantastic friends. We shared adventures, battles, and unforgettable moments together. Mom: Of course, you told me about Ryu, Emi, and the others. I want to hear about them again now that you''re here. Tell me more. Damien: Well, there''s Ryu, my closest friend at the academy. He has a massive and strong familiar called Terragolem, specialized in close combat but also skilled with the sword. He defeated me in a duel at the tournament. Mom: (smiling) He sounds like a good friend to rely on. Damien: Yes, he really is. And then there''s Emi, Ryu''s sister, a truly talented girl with a flying familiar named Aerovolant. With her agility, Emi can scout enemies and dangerous situations from above. Mom: So she''s an excellent explorer! Damien: Exactly! And you know, we also have a very skilled mage named Evelyna. She has an affinity for the water element and can manipulate it at will. It''s really impressive to see her in combat! She''s also very skilled with the sword, and she''s teaching me how to fight with it. Mom: They all sound like very talented youngsters. I''m really proud of you. But please promise me to always be cautious and take care of yourself. Damien: I will, Mom. I promise to be careful, and Argenius and I will always be one step ahead in our battles. Mom: You''ve grown so much, Damien. I''m sure you''ll be an extraordinary adventurer. But remember, no matter how far you are, you will always be my precious son. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Damien: (touched) Thank you, Mom. I can''t wait to share all the adventures I''ll experience at the academy with you. Mom: (hugging him) And I can''t wait to hear all your stories, my dear. I''m happy that you''ve made wonderful friends at the academy. I put on a light jacket because it''s a bit chilly outside, but the sun is shining in the sky, making it a perfect day for a stroll. Mom and I head to the supermarket near our house. As we walk along the path, we chat and laugh together, enjoying each other''s company. We talk about everything, from our plans for the summer vacation to funny things that happened at school. Arriving at the supermarket, we start getting the things we need. Mom already has a list of items to buy, and she asks me to help her find some products. We browse through the colorful shelves, picking up fresh fruits and vegetables, freshly baked bread, and other treats for our pantry. As we fill the cart, we have fun discovering new products or trying something different. Every now and then, Mom asks for my opinion on what to buy, and I feel important in contributing to the decisions. When we finish shopping, we head to the checkout. While the cashier scans the items, Mom and I joke and make light-hearted remarks. We always like to make the payment moment more enjoyable. We leave the supermarket with bags full of groceries and return home. As we walk back, I feel grateful for these special moments with Mom. Grocery shopping together is a simple but meaningful way to spend quality time and strengthen our bond. Once we''re back home, we help put away the purchases, storing the food and organizing the pantry. Then, we relax a bit, maybe watch a movie or read a book. This afternoon with Mom was just what I needed. I feel serene and happy, knowing that I have such a special mom to share moments of joy and carefreeness with. I''m grateful for everything she does for me and for the precious time we spend together.
The next day, we go for a walk in the park, just like we used to when I was younger. It''s nice to see that things have changed, but the love and bond with my parents remain unchanged. Mom prepares a delicious picnic. Our checkered blanket is spread out on the green grass, and we all sit together. Laughter and delicious food fill the air, and I realize how lucky I am to have such a loving family. During lunch, they ask me about my life at the academy, and as I talk about friendships, studies, and adventures, I carefully choose my words, not revealing my true identity as an adventurer. I prefer to keep them safe and not worry them. I feel a bit guilty about hiding this part of me, but I know it''s for their own good. The days pass quickly, but every moment is precious. When it''s time to return to the academy, the farewell is heart-wrenching. I hug Mom and Dad tightly, promising to come back soon. Going back to the academy will be tough, but now I know I have a loving family waiting for me at home. And even though I have a secret to keep, I know I can always rely on their support and affection. Chapter 16: Training I dedicate myself to an intense training program of 4 hours per day, following the exercises indicated by the academy professors to improve my mana, strength, speed, and intelligence. At the academy, we always receive tasks and exercises to perform, and some of them also increase our stat points. The professors have said that if we do these exercises every day, we can reach 100 stat points for strength, speed, intelligence, and mana in 3 years. Since then, I have created a training program. Initially, I trained every day, but it became impossible to keep up with the pace, so I started training for only 2 hours a day¡ªfocusing on strength and intelligence one day, and mana and speed the other day. Now that I no longer have to attend the academy, I can resume training every day. To increase my mana, I focus on the Mana Circle exercise. Sitting in a meditative position, I try to connect with my inner energy, visualizing the flow of mana circulating throughout my body. This helps strengthen my connection with mana, enhancing my magic and making my spells more powerful and effective. For developing physical strength, I engage in weightlifting exercises. I lift weights of varying resistance, engaging all the muscles in my body. This type of training is essential for increasing my power and physical endurance, making me stronger in battles and challenges against the dangerous creatures of the abyss. To improve my speed and agility, I train with running. I do high-intensity running sessions, alternating between sprints and recovery moments. This helps me develop greater reaction speed and the ability to move quickly, both during combat and in situations of escape or exploration. Finally, to enhance my magical intelligence, I dedicate myself to mathematical calculations related to magic formulas. I solve complex mathematical calculations concerning spells and magic formulas. This type of training helps me understand the workings of magic more profoundly, refining my strategic intelligence and adaptability to complex magical situations. Following this daily training program is demanding, but I know it is essential for improving my skills as an adventurer and becoming better prepared for the challenges that await me at the academy and in the world of adventurers. With dedication and perseverance, I hope to become an extraordinary adventurer and honor the training received from the academy professors. Name: Damien Riversong Level: 15 Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Title: Mark of the Witch Zelinda Class: None Strength: 8 > 15 Speed: 12 > 20 Intelligence: 5 > 14 Endurance: 5 > 20 Mana: 21 > 30 Health: 10 Endurance: 150/200 Mana: 90/300 Health: 100/100 Ability: Poison Resistance (F) (Passive) Stat Points: 55 Ability Points: 15 Additionally, the professors have advised us not to use stat points for now. They warned that if we use the system to increase our abilities at this stage, it may become more difficult to grow naturally once we reach level 100. This especially applies to high-ranking adventurers. Apart from training myself, I also dedicate time and energy to train Argenius, my loyal familiar, in the art of the sword. Sharing this skill with him is crucial as it enhances our synergy during battles and allows us to face even more dangerous situations together. We begin the training gradually. Argenius, a skeletal familiar, has physical characteristics different from mine, but he demonstrates remarkable agility and speed in his movements. I use this to our advantage, and we start with exercises in movement and coordination, allowing him to become familiar with the sword and its grip. As Argenius becomes more comfortable with the sword, we progress to combat exercises with simulations of imaginary opponents. I strive to teach him attack and defense techniques, focusing on the precision of his movements and coordination with my own attacks. Name: Argenius (F+) Strength: 10 > 25 Speed: 10 > 24 I ntelligence: 1 > 4 Endurance: 10 > 19 Mana: 10 > 30 Health: 10 > 30 Endurance: 100/190 Mana: 300/300 Health: 300/300 Ability: Moon Dance (F) Argenius'' statistics have grown incredibly thanks to all the cores he has consumed. It has been truly worth it, but I have yet to have the opportunity to see his ability in action. As the days passed, Damien and Argenius continued their rigorous training, pushing their limits and strengthening their bond as a team. The repetitive practice of swordplay and combat simulations honed Argenius'' skills, and he began to exhibit a newfound confidence in his movements. Damien''s own progress was equally impressive. His mana control improved, allowing him to cast more powerful spells and manipulate magical energy with greater precision. The arduous weightlifting routines contributed to his increased physical strength, making him more adept at wielding his weapon in battle. Throughout their training, Damien and Argenius encountered various challenges, but they faced each obstacle with determination and perseverance. The trust between the two grew stronger, and they learned to anticipate each other''s moves, seamlessly coordinating their attacks and defenses during their sparring sessions. One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, i noticed a change in Argenius. During the training session, the familiar displayed a new level of focus and control, incorporating his Moon Dance ability into their practice with precision and grace. It was a mesmerizing sight, and i couldn''t help but feel immense pride in myfaithful companion''s growth. Chapter 17: Unexplored Dungeon I want to take this opportunity to gain experience by conquering an unexplored dungeon, so I decide to go to the Adventurer''s Association. I enter the large building of the Adventurer''s Association, where aspiring explorers and hunters gather to find travel companions and information about unexplored dungeons. The atmosphere is bustling, with adventurers of every race and class talking amongst themselves, sharing stories of past successes, and preparing for their next challenges. I head towards the request counter, where the association employees list available missions and unexplored dungeons. I scan the list, searching for an interesting and intriguing opportunity. My eyes light up when I notice a mysterious and little-known dungeon known as the "Goblin Field (F)." I decide to join an already-formed party instead of trying to recruit new companions. Finding adventurers with experience and complementary skills might increase our chances of survival within a dangerous dungeon like the Abyss of Shadows. I observe some teams looking for missing members, and after a while, I spot a group of three adventurers who seem to have the right experience and attitude. I approach them politely, introducing myself and asking if they need a fourth member for their party. Their leader, a master swordsman named Marcus, studies me carefully, trying to assess my strength and competence. I show him the association badge indicating my adventurer rank and briefly describe my abilities and my familiar, Argenius. Marcus seems satisfied with my words and decides to give me a chance. His companions, a young mage named Lina, and an experienced monster hunter named Leo, seem to welcome me warmly. Finally, we are a party of four adventurers, ready to face the Goblin Field together. We head to the reception to take the official mission and get further details about the dungeon. As we venture deeper into the dungeon, we realize that the goblins here are quite different from those in permanent dungeons. They are larger, fiercer, and undoubtedly much stronger. We cannot let our guard down even for a moment. As we enter the dungeon, we encounter a group of goblins surrounding us menacingly. Damien draws his sword and prepares for the fight. Damien: (with determination) Stay strong, guys, we need to stick together! Damien charges into battle, courageously facing the approaching goblins. He skillfully wields his sword, trying to strike down the enemies one by one. But their strength is overwhelming, and Damien starts to feel overwhelmed. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Just when it seems like he''s about to lose, Marcus comes to his aid. Carrying a mana rifle on his shoulder, he shoots an energy bullet at one of the goblins, causing its head to explode. The explosion breaks the enemy formation, giving Damien a moment to catch his breath. Damien: (grateful) Thanks, Marcus! Those goblins are really tough! Marcus: (smiling) I''m always here to protect my comrades. Now it''s time to use ranged weapons, being your first dungeon, it''s better that you stay back. Marcus draws his mana rifle and starts shooting at the goblins with precision. The energy bullets hit the enemies, weakening them and creating opportunities for closer attacks. Surprisingly, we realize that exploring this dungeon is very different from what we expected. The adventurers have adapted to the hostile environment and are using weapons like rifles and mana bombs, something we had never seen before. As we progress, we encounter the dungeon''s monster boss. It''s a huge and terrifying creature, but once again, our allies prove themselves worthy. Marcus loads his mana rifle with explosive bullets and opens fire, while Leo and Lina unleash destructive spells. The creature tries to resist, but the barrage of mana bullets weakens it quickly. Eventually, the beast falls defeated, and we are still in disbelief at how relatively easy the victory was. Damien: (amazed) Wow, guys, you did an incredible job! Marcus: (smiling) We just have to adapt to the situations and use our skills to the best of our abilities. You''re also very strong, being able to slay goblins with a sword. We are forced to use the rifle, which is easier, but it costs a lot to purchase mana bullets, and we have to be careful not to use too many. We face the boss monster with our mana rifles, and the rank E goblin shaman has no hope. Marcus and his rifles are incredibly lethal, and before the goblin can even cast a spell, its body is riddled with holes. Its magic is shattered, and it can''t react. Damien: (surprised) Marcus, you''re incredible with those mana rifles! Marcus: (smiling) Thanks, Damien. I''ve been an adventurer for 10 years; this is nothing. Besides the cores, there is also the treasure¡ªa remarkable collection of precious and powerful items. Inside the chest are vials of enhanced mana, small flasks that shimmer with intense magical energy. Each of these vials has been carefully prepared and contains a more potent reserve of mana than usual, capable of temporarily boosting the magical abilities of whoever uses them. Alongside the vials, there are intricately woven magical items, including an enchanted pendant that emits a subtle and mysterious glow. It''s not clear what power or protection it offers, but it''s evident that it''s an object of great value and power. We sell the treasure and the cores, and the total value amounts to $20,000 today. As for the pendant we found, it amounts to $30,000. The chance of finding these items is 1 in 10, so we were lucky. The group consists of 20 adventurers, so we all manage to take home more than $2,000 each. I only take $500 because my contribution compared to others is lower, even considering the goblins killed by my familiar. Of course, I didn''t use my dark affinity; otherwise, my contribution would have been different. Chapter 18: The Oracle The Oracle, created from the extraordinary fusion of magic and technology, is an entity of immense power that offers people the ability to solve complex problems and manage administrative tasks with ease. However, its availability is limited only to the wealthy, thus preventing the entire humanity from benefiting from it. If the Oracle were accessible to everyone, without financial restrictions, humanity could undoubtedly evolve much faster. Economic barriers would no longer limit access to only a privileged elite, allowing the full potential of the Oracle to be harnessed in solving global issues and humanitarian challenges. Free access to the Oracle would mean that both individuals and less affluent communities and nations would have the opportunity to utilize this powerful artificial intelligence. This would enable tackling complex issues such as climate change, advanced medical care, poverty solutions, and many other global challenges. The creative minds from all around the world could join forces with the Oracle, accelerating scientific and technological discoveries. It would be possible to gain new perspectives on intricate problems, promoting a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing. The Oracle, a creation of the Great Council of Magicians, has been made available to various governments in exchange for favors and funding. This agreement has granted governments a powerful tool for control, conflict management, and civil administration. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Thanks to access to the Oracle, governments have gained a significant advantage in resolving complex internal and external issues. The combination of artificial intelligence and magic provides them with a vast array of information and in-depth analyses, facilitating strategic planning and political decision-making. In the field of conflict management, the Oracle provides governments with detailed insights into military situations and possible options for peaceful resolution. This enables them to take preventive measures or handle delicate situations more effectively, ensuring internal stability and security. With its advanced AI capabilities and the ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently, the Oracle has been able to respect citizens'' privacy and contribute to improved justice administration. Thanks to rigorous data protection measures and controlled access policies, the Oracle has been successful in ensuring that citizens'' personal information is treated securely and confidentially. This has helped strengthen the population''s trust in AI and the governmental institutions utilizing it. Moreover, the Oracle has proven to be a valuable tool in the fight against crime. With its ability to analyze data from various sources, law enforcement has been able to identify and prevent illegal activities with greater precision and promptness. This has led to a significant reduction in criminal activities, enhancing the overall safety and well-being of society. The administration of justice has benefited from the use of the Oracle in its impartial and unbiased analysis of evidence, witnesses, and prior judicial rulings. This has resulted in fairer trials and increased efficiency in judicial systems, contributing to the reduction of injustices and inaccuracies in legal decisions. Chapter 19: The Hunt at Full power The Adventurers'' Association system utilizes the Oracle, which means as long as I abide by the law, I can register anonymously and create a false identity. I wear black armor from head to toe to remain incognito. My affinity with darkness allows me to move with agility and hide in the shadows, becoming invisible to the eyes of enemies. Together with the other adventurers, we face the monsters of the F-rank dungeon. Thanks to my strength and the magic enhanced by my C-rank affinity with darkness, I easily defeat the attacking monsters. My spells are more powerful and precise, and my control over darkness allows me to manipulate shadows and create devastating attacks. After gaining enough experience, I decide to complete the dungeons on my own, without the help of a party. My confidence in my abilities is high, and I know I can face the challenges of the dungeon alone. Moving through the shadows and utilizing my affinity with darkness, I confront the dungeon''s monsters one by one. My skill in using the sword and magical powers is now unmatched, and I no longer need the support of other adventurers. My darkness spells prove to be a formidable weapon against the monsters, and I easily defeat enemies that were once a challenge. My reputation as a solo adventurer grows, and I become known as one of the strongest and most skilled explorers. Exploring the dungeon alone allows me to further discover and refine my magical abilities. My affinity with darkness makes me a fearsome opponent, and I am getting closer and closer to achieving my goals as an adventurer. I face every enemy with courage and determination, showing the world my strength and talent. My false identity and black armor protect me from suspicion and allow me to move through the dungeon unnoticed. I find myself in the heart of an ancient ruined temple, having entered a rank F dungeon where mana is highly concentrated, and strange symbols adorn the walls. So far, I have encountered lizardmen, who are rank E monsters. Even with my dark magic-enhanced spells, I have been injured. I''ve used half of my mana potions and a couple of healing potions. Now, my concern is facing the boss monster without mana. I finally reach the center of the temple, where a giant door with runic inscriptions awaits me. I have to confront a terrible boss monster: a gigantic lizardman. The room is dark, illuminated only by the faint light of magic stones embedded in the walls. In the distance, I catch a glimpse of the imposing silhouette of the boss monster: a tall, muscular lizardman with dark scales glistening in the dim light. Its green scales shimmer in the faint light of the temple, and its yellow eyes fixate on me with ancestral malevolence. I tightly grip my sword and focus my mana, preparing to face this terrifying creature. Argenius stands by my side, ready to attack with its dark abilities. The monster stares at me with fiery yellow eyes, emitting a threatening roar. I decide to initiate the attack, unleashing a chain of black mana towards the boss. The serpentine chains entangle its body, slowing its movements. Taking advantage of the situation, I launch an explosive mana sphere, causing it to stumble and trip. But the boss doesn''t go down easily. It quickly recovers and gives me a challenging glare. Drawing an enormous sword, shimmering with dark energy, it prepares to strike. I move nimbly, and Argenius attacks with its dark blade, attempting to distract the monster. I manage to distance myself from the creature and begin to concentrate my mana for a powerful move. I create a wave of dark energy, surrounding myself with a mana armor to increase my defense. Then, I unleash mana arrows against the monster, repeatedly hitting and weakening it. The boss proves to be resilient and charges at me with force. I manage to parry its attacks with my sword, but its strength is overwhelming. Argenius attacks it from behind, trying to distract it, but the monster remains focused on me. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. I decide to take a risk and unleash a powerful mana sphere towards the monster. The explosion hits it directly, shaking the cave. The monster staggers, but it keeps on fighting. I''m exhausted, but I can''t give up now. I decide to use my ace in the hole, the Terminator, an automatic rifle with firepower that can take down even a rank D monster. The monster''s skin is tough, but I enhance the bullets with my dark mana. I keep flooding it with bullets, spending 250 dollars per shot. I hope it dies soon; otherwise, I''ll go broke. The monster is finally exhausted, but it hasn''t said its last word. It charges once again. I hurl mana chains to immobilize it, and with the sword in hand, I deliver a powerful blow, cutting through its scales and gravely injuring it. The monster falls to the ground, exhausted and defeated. The cave fills with silence, and Argenius and I catch our breath. We have won, but the battle was tough and exhausting. I hope the treasure will make me regain the money I lost. After the battle, the cave echoes with our heavy breathing and the sparks of energy dispersing in the air. I''m proud of our success, but I know we must act quickly. The risk of other monsters or traps inside the dungeon is always present, and we must be ready to face them. We navigate through dark corridors and mysterious rooms, confronting monsters and traps with agility and caution. The mana chains, arrows, and energy spheres prove to be valuable allies in our battles. As we progress, our confidence grows, and the fear of danger fades away. We become more efficient in fighting together, anticipating each other''s moves without even needing to speak. After exploring deeply into the dungeon, we reach the treasure chamber. The place is illuminated by magical light, and a sparkling treasure awaits us. Gold coins, enchanted jewels, and ancient artifacts shine brightly in the light. Among the various items I found, there is a magic sphere emitting a powerful magic aura. Despite my attempts to decipher its purpose using the system through the amethyst stone, I am unable to figure out what it is. After several tries, I give up. Among the various artifacts, there is a subspace ring, which is the most valuable among all the items I have found. I could earn at least 1 million dollars by selling it to the highest bidder. However, I am not foolish enough to sell such a valuable item, and I won''t sell the crystal sphere either until I discover its true nature. [Congratulations! You are the first to complete the "Lost Time Temple" dungeon.] [You have obtained the title "Pioneer (Rare)" - Health +25] I''m surprised to see the notification, but what''s strange is that the system didn''t say I was the first to find this dungeon but the first to complete it. This means that other adventurers have found this dungeon before, but they all died or managed to escape with a teleportation stone. In just three months of constant and daily training, I have made great progress as an adventurer. Thanks to my determination and the power of my darkness magic, I have successfully completed 15 rank F dungeons alone. Every day, I challenged stronger monsters and faced unpredictable dangers, but my skill in using darkness and my affinity with this magic have helped me overcome every obstacle. As I explored the dungeons, I gained new abilities and knowledge, honing my combat style even further. Each victory boosted my confidence and motivated me to improve my skills even more. My fame has increased among other explorers, and some have approached me to form a party, but I have chosen to continue my adventure alone. I have discovered that solitude allows me to explore freely and fully test my magic abilities. Each completed dungeon has rewarded me with treasures, magical artifacts, and valuable rewards. I have earned a considerable amount of money, which I have reinvested in new equipment and magical items to further enhance my performance. Despite my success, I always remain cautious and discreet, maintaining my false identity and black armor to avoid drawing too much attention to myself. With each new dungeon I explore, the challenges become more demanding, but my passion for adventure and the desire to become a legendary adventurer push me forward. My experience in rank F dungeons has taught me a lot about understanding which spells to use during combat, combat strategy, and myself. I am proud of my progress and look forward to facing new adventures and even greater challenges. The road to becoming an elite adventurer is still long, but I am ready to face it with courage and determination. After three intense months of exploration and adventure in the dungeons, I have realized that excessive reliance on the dark affinity might be a limitation to my growth as an adventurer. Once back at the academy, I will use the dark affinity as little as possible and focus on the basics of combat and swordsmanship. Additionally, I will learn new rank F spells to expand my repertoire of magical abilities. In these three months, I have earned about 250,000 dollars, all thanks to the dark affinity. If I hadn''t possessed this power, I wouldn''t have even earned 15,000 dollars in these three months. I have already decided how I will use these earnings.