《Only I Can See The End》 Alignments

Chapter -1: Alignments

[Alignment] A creature''s general moral and personal attitudes are represented by its alignment:wful good, neutral good, chaotic good,wful neutral, neutral, chaotic neutral,wful evil, neutral evil, or chaotic evil. [The 9 Categories] Nine distinct alignments define all the possiblebinations of thewful-chaotic axis with the good-evil axis. Each alignment description below depicts a typical character of that alignment. The first six alignments,wful good through chaotic neutral, are the standard alignments for yer characters. The three evil alignments are mostly for monsters and viins. Lawful Good, "Crusader" Awful good character acts as a good person is expected or required to act. Hebines amitment to oppose evil with the discipline to fight relentlessly. He tells the truth, keeps his word, helps those in need, and speaks out against injustice. Awful good character hates to see the guilty go unpunished. Lawful good is the best alignment you can be because itbines honor andpassion. Lawful good can be a dangerous alignment when it restricts freedom and criminalizes self-interest. Neutral Good, "Benefactor" A neutral good character does the best that a good person can do. He is devoted to helping others. He works with kings and magistrates but does not feel beholden to them. Neutral good is the best alignment you can be because it means doing what is good without bias for or against order. Neutral good can be a dangerous alignment when it advances mediocrity by limiting the actions of the truly capable. Chaotic Good, "Rebel" A chaotic good character acts as his conscience directs him with little regard for what others expect of him. He makes his own way, but he''s kind and benevolent. He believes in goodness and right but has little use forws and regtions. He hates it when people try to intimidate others and tell them what to do. He follows his own moralpass, which, although good, may not agree with that of society. Chaotic good is the best alignment you can be because itbines a good heart with a free spirit. Chaotic good can be a dangerous alignment when it disrupts the order of society and punishes those who do well for themselves. Lawful Neutral, "Judge" Awful neutral character acts asw, tradition, or a personal code directs her. Order and organization are paramount to her. She may believe in personal order and live by a code or standard, or she may believe in order for all and favor a strong, organized government. Lawful neutral is the best alignment you can be because it means you are reliable and honorable without being a zealot. Lawful neutral can be a dangerous alignment when it seeks to eliminate all freedom, choice, and diversity in society. Neutral, "Undecided" A neutral character does what seems to be a good idea. She doesn''t feel strongly one way or the other when ites to good vs. evil orw vs. chaos. Most neutral characters exhibit ack of conviction or bias rather than amitment to neutrality. Such a character thinks of good as better than evil-after all, she would rather have good neighbors and rulers than evil ones. Still, she''s not personallymitted to upholding good in any abstract or universal way. Some neutral characters, on the other hand,mit themselves philosophically to neutrality. They see good, evil,w, and chaos as prejudices and dangerous extremes. They advocate the middle way of neutrality as the best, most bnced road in the long run. Neutral is the best alignment you can be because it means you act naturally, without prejudice orpulsion. Neutral can be a dangerous alignment when it represents apathy, indifference, and ack of conviction. Chaotic Neutral, "Free Spirit" A chaotic neutral character follows his whims. He is an individualist first andst. He values his own liberty but doesn''t strive to protect others'' freedom. He avoids authority, resents restrictions, and challenges traditions. A chaotic neutral character does not intentionally disrupt organizations as part of a campaign of anarchy. To do so, he would have to be motivated either by good (and a desire to liberate others) or evil (and a desire to make those different from himself suffer). A chaotic neutral character may be unpredictable, but his behavior is not totally random. He is not as likely to jump off a bridge as to cross it. Chaotic neutral is the best alignment you can be because it represents true freedom from both society''s restrictions and a do-gooder''s zeal. Chaotic neutral can be a dangerous alignment when it seeks to eliminate all authority, harmony, and order in society. Lawful Evil, "Dominator" Awful evil viin methodically takes what he wants within the limits of his code of conduct without regard for whom it hurts. He cares about tradition, loyalty, and order but not about freedom, dignity, or life. He ys by the rules but without mercy orpassion. He isfortable in a hierarchy and would like to rule, but is willing to serve. He condemns others not ording to their actions but ording to race, religion, homnd, or social rank. He is loath to breakws or promises. This reluctancees partly from his nature and partly because he depends on order to protect himself from those who oppose him on moral grounds. Somewful evil viins have particr taboos, such as not killing in cold blood (but having underlings do it) or not letting childrene to harm (if it can be helped). They imagine that thesepunctions put them above unprincipled viins. Somewful evil people and creaturesmit themselves to evil with a zeal like that of a crusadermitted to good. Beyond being willing to hurt others for their own ends, they take pleasure in spreading evil as an end unto itself. They may also see doing evil as part of a duty to an evil deity or master. Lawful evil is sometimes called "diabolical," because devils are the epitome ofwful evil. Lawful evil creatures consider their alignment to be the best because itbines honor with a dedicated self-interest. Lawful evil is the most dangerous alignment because it represents methodical, intentional, and frequently sessful evil. Neutral Evil, "Malefactor" A neutral evil viin does whatever she can get away with. She is out for herself, pure and simple. She sheds no tears for those she kills, whether for profit, sport, or convenience. She has no love of order and holds no illusion that followingws, traditions, or codes would make her any better or more noble. On the other hand, she doesn''t have the restless nature or love of conflict that a chaotic evil viin has. Some neutral evil viins hold up evil as an ideal,mitting evil for its own sake. Most often, such viins are devoted to evil deities or secret societies. Neutral evil beings consider their alignment to be the best because they can advance themselves without regard for others. Neutral evil is the most dangerous alignment because it represents pure evil without honor and without variation. Chaotic Evil, "Destroyer" A chaotic evil character does whatever his greed, hatred, and lust for destruction drive him to do. He is hot-tempered, vicious, arbitrarily violent, and unpredictable. If he is simply out for whatever he can get, he is ruthless and brutal. If he ismitted to the spread of evil and chaos, he is even worse. Thankfully, his ns are haphazard, and any groups he joins or forms are poorly organized. Typically, chaotic evil people can be made to work together only by force, and their leadersts only as long as he can thwart attempts to topple or assassinate him. Chaotic evil is sometimes called "demonic" because demons are the epitome of chaotic evil. Chaotic evil beings believe their alignment is the best because itbines self-interest and pure freedom. Chaotic evil is the most dangerous alignment because it represents the destruction not only of beauty and life but also of the order on which beauty and life depend. I hope this can help the readers understand better what Alignments are. Note: The main character starts off as Neutral Good, so let''s watch how he develops his character. [This article is sourced from a more experienced writer, so this chapter is an adaptation of the main work.] Chapter 1: It Starts With A Dream

Chapter 1: It Starts With A Dream

[Prologue] I had a dream. It whisked me away to a wondrous sight: a massive castle sitting proudly atop a snowy mountain, surrounded by a frozenndscape of rolling hills and ridges. The entire scene was wrapped in a serene blend of pure white and calm blue. However, a fierce snowstorm blurred the details, making it hard to see. Yet, an unexinable force drew me towards the castle, perched majestically at the peak. The wind whispered ancient secrets as if urging me forward. As I entered the pce, I stepped into a breathtaking space¡ªthe throne room. It radiated an aura of immacte beauty as if it were plucked from a heavenly haven and carefully ced here for a chosen few to witness. Crystal statues adorned every corner of this sacred chamber, catching and bending the light in magical ways, each facet of the crystals reflecting stories untold. The central focus was a surreal throne, carved intricately from ice andmanding respect with its grandeur. Chandeliers of ice hung from the ceiling, their delicate, frozen tendrils casting intricate reflections on the gleaming floor below. borate ice carvings, each telling tales of valor and legend, decorated the walls in stunning detail, adding a sense of majestic opulence to the room. Yet, amidst this enchanting disy, the sh of weapons shattered my thoughts. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!! des collided, the sh echoing through the air, threatening to burst my eardrums. Sparks flew as thebatants engaged in a fierce battle, the very air around them crackling with the intensity of their confrontation. One figure stood dressed in pure white, a vision of magnificence akin to a celestial being. Adorned in gleaming light armor that caught and reflected the scattered sparks, a fur-like cape billowing behind them, they were crowned with an aura of shining majesty that seemed to radiate from within. They embodied purity, their every movement resonating with grace and purpose. In their presence, the very essence of nobility and righteousness seemed toe alive, manifesting in the physical form of a valiant defender. They were the ruler of the castle¡ªan absolute being, chosen to guard this realm of beauty and wonder. But within this stunning sight, a dark adversary stood in stark contrast. Cloaked in darkness that seemed to swallow the very light around him, he exuded a malevolent presence that sent shivers down the spine. Covered in a vile ck mist that clung to him like sinister armor, he was a living embodiment of the shadows themselves. His very presence tainted the room, marring its perfect atmosphere. He was an unwee intrusion, sullying the paradise. Who the hell did he think he was? I stood frozen, watching the sh between the evil figure and the glorious knight, fervently hoping for the virtuous hero''s victory. The dark de met the white knight''s sword with a collision that sent dazzling sparks scattering like fireflies in the night. The impact resonated in every fiber of my body. Their weapons shed repeatedly, creating collisions and charging the atmosphere with anticipation. Their intensity grew, each strike pulsating with energy, filling the room with tension. Deep within me, I yearned for the dark intruder''s defeat, craving justice. And finally, after moments that felt like an eternity... ~SQUELCH!~ The hero''s de struck true, its edge cutting through the malevolent darkness that had enshrouded the figure. A mist of brilliant white emerged from the wound, engulfing him. From his chest, white particles appeared, dispelling the darkness. He began freezing, turning into a statue like those scattered across thendscape. "Failed again," He murmured. His cloak, once a shroud of shadow, vanished into nothingness, revealing the true form beneath. His frame was thin, almost emaciated, his body showing the signs of prolonged suffering. Sunken eyes spoke of sleepless nights, parched lips of days without food. Strangely, I felt a hint of empathy. Did he deserve this fate? Why disturb the peace of the white knight? "I promised them," he muttered, as though he had heard my question. His lips parted as the remnants of his cape disappeared, revealing his partly frozen face. "... The 98th Floor," he said as his face fully appeared. It was me! Confusion gripped me. Why was I the one dying? Wasn''t he the viin? Wasn''t the white knight the hero? "Not done... not yet," my dark self stuttered, his voice trembling. It was likely due to hispletely frozen lungs. "Next time, I''ll win..." His face turned white, then his entire body. Everything went nk, icy cold. Even though I should have been dead, I heard a whisper¡ªa gentle, warm voice that sounded exactly like mine. "... Win or die trying!" Then I woke up. ***** A few dayster, the dream was almost forgotten, brushed aside as just another unsettling vision that regrly gued me. Nightmares had been my unweepanions for years. Since I was ten, and now at twenty, they were a nightly ritual, uninvited yet persistent. However, there was something about this dream that set it apart. It clung to me, refusing to disappear with time. Amidst the countless others, it held its ground. What made it different was that after that dream, a change took hold. The usual nightmares, like clockwork, vanished. A sense of joy and relief washed over me. It felt great, finally getting a chance to sleep peacefully. Little did I know that this happiness would be short-lived. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The realm of the gods, Paradise, will be revealed to the chosen humans. Ovee the 99 Floors and reach the Final Realm.} {Your mission is to survive the Tutorial so you can be qualified to enter Paradise. Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 168 hrs: 00 mins: 00 secs} Because, you see¡­ [GOOD LUCK!] ... The true nightmare was just about to unfold. * * * [A/N] Thanks for reading this first chapter. If you liked it, please support me. Cheers! Chapter 2: The Nightmare Commences

Chapter 2: The Nightmare Commences

[7:30 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] I woke up that morning with a mild headache. Sunlight gleamed on my dark brown hair as I moved, and I looked around with half-open, heavy-lidded amber eyes, taking in the bright morning. "Ah¡­" I muttered, rubbing my forehead with a bit of concern. It was a brand new day, but I could already feel the stress it would bring. "I guess I''ll check in with the drugstoreter." I rose up from my small bed and was greeted by a very in and sparsely furnished room. Other than my bed and wardrobe, nothing worthy of note was in sight. I took a few steps away from my bed and looked at myself in the mirror on the wall, performing the same ritual I did every morning. I blinked. I yawned. I stretched my arms and legs. Even jumped a little. Finally, I ced my hands on the mirror. And, much to my relief¡­ nothing strange happened. Apparently, I wasn''t dreaming. "Alright, Mikey, time to start the day!" ***** For over ten years, I had been having dreams. Most were like jumbled puzzles I couldn''t solve, nonsensical images that faded from memory as quickly as they came. But then, there were those that clung to my mind, casting a shadow that wouldn''t lift. Those were the real nightmares. While there were moments of rity when I knew I was dreaming, most times, I was swept up in the narrative, as if my consciousness went along for the ride. Living that way, not knowing if my reality was real or imagined, nearly drove me mad. The jolt of relief upon waking, only to realize it was all an illusion, left a scar on my soul. So, every morning, I''d make my way to the mirror. Checking my reflection became my ritual, a lifeline to sanity. There were several methods to check if one was in a dream, and using mirrors happened to be one of them. In a dream, a person''s reflection in the mirror would often be distorted, iplete or downright different. Mirrors were a gateway of sorts in dreams, a chance for reality to bend, since a lot of things in a dreamscape defied thews of physics. I heard that other solutions like ''pain'' or a ''totem'' such as a spinning top existed, but theycked the certainty of the mirror. Besides, only a certain threshold of pain could wake me up, and I wasn''t about to hurt myself just to confirm whether I was awake or dreaming. By performing simple gestures, ensuring the mirror was as steadfast as any mirror should be, I could find my footing. It was a lifeline, a connection to the world that kept slipping through my fingers. It helped me keep my sanity¡­ Or at least, what was left of it. ***** Down the chilly street I jogged, d in my trusty tracksuit. The cool breeze wafted across my skin, and I huffed and puffed as my feet pounded the pavement. Beads of sweat formed on my face despite the cold, but I paid it no mind, eyes locked on the path ahead. My muscles ached and burned, a chorus of difort that I''d grown ustomed to over the months. It had been a few months since I started working out, and so far it had be my lifeline, a way to ground myself and clear my head. The gym was a bit of a trek from my studio apartment, so jogging there had be a ritual. There was a thrill to it, an exhrating feeling as my heart raced and my body pushed through the strain. As my heart raced, and my muscles ached, I kept up my pace and made my way to the gym. ***** "Mikey, you''re here!" "Oh, it''s Mikey!" "Looking good, Mikey!" A chorus of cheerful voices greeted me as I stepped into the gym. I acknowledged the friendly wees with a nod and a smile, trying to shake off the strange poprity I had unintentionally gained. It was a poprity I had never asked for, stemming from a very weird and unexpected series of events. It was embarrassing, but ording to the guys at the gym, I used to sleepwalk and arrive three hours earlier than usual to get some crunches and sets in. And as if that weren''t strange enough, I would return again in the evening for another round of intense exercise. I had no idea how that was possible, but apparently, it was. At first, I thought my gym buddies were messing with me when they said they saw me often in the gym. Many evenmended me. It wasn''t until I saw the footage one of them took that I realized what was going on. ''Thankfully, none of them knew that it was sleepwalking.'' I thought gratefully. They assured me they hadn''t seen me do anything of the sort all through this week, so I had to assume the sleepwalking had stopped. ''Same as my nightmares. Thank goodness. Is it finally time for my life to take a turn for the normal?'' I would hope so, considering I was going to be twenty-one years old in September, and I still didn''t have a girlfriend. But, who knows, perhaps things were already changing for the better. ''I hope it continues this way.'' ***** After my grueling workout at the gym, I rushed through a shower and a change of clothes, eager to shake off the sweat and strain. Unfortunately, I had a splitting headache which persisted, so I decided to veer off my usual path and make a detour to the nearby drugstore, to get something to alleviate the pain. ''This isn''t my first time, so¡­'' A weary smile yed on my lips as I recalled past visits to this very ce. The drugstore was a familiar ce, tucked conveniently behind my apartmentplex, just a few blocks away. Yet, the twistedyout of the neighborhood streets meant taking an indirect route, a cruel loop that turned a short walk into an unnecessarily long journey. That was why I simply decided to get it on my way back. I entered the store and it looked the same as usual. The cool, air-conditioned ambience of the drugstore greeted me as soon as I stepped in. Bright fluorescent lights illuminated the store, casting a clinical glow over shelves that were stocked with an array of products. I walked past the isle of skincare products, each bottle making bold ims of rejuvenation and renewal. Whiffs of perfumes and colognes wafted through the air as I made my way towards the pharmacy''s counter at a corner of the store. As I passed the aisles of over-the-counter medications, I saw what I was looking for and grabbed it, making straight for the counter. The store seemed quieter than usual, but I was too tired to make much of it. For some reason, my body felt a little groggy, and the pain in my head intensified, but that only made me quicken my pace so I could pay for the medication and go home. Upon getting to the pharmacy counter, though, I found it empty. ''H-huh?'' I thought to myself. There was no one behind the counter. Why? What was going on? I looked around to see if I could find the pharmacist, only to realize something even more confusing. I¡­ I was the only person in this store. "Why am I¡ª?" ~DING~ I suddenly heard a sound, and a game-like System Window suddenly opened in front of me. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The realm of the gods, Paradise, will be revealed to the chosen humans. Ovee the 99 Floors and reach the Final Realm.} {Your mission is to survive the Tutorial so you can be qualified to enter Paradise. Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 168 hrs: 00 mins: 00 secs} ''This again?!'' I thought to myself angrily. I was dreaming again, wasn''t I? But I did the ''Mirror Trick'' already. Why was this happening? "GRRRRRRRRRR¡­." A growl, primal and chilling like that of a wild animal, disrupted my thoughts. A chill raced down my spine, causing the hairs on my skin to stand on end. The growling noise came from behind the counter. ''W-what is¡­ this is a dream¡­ right?'' I took a slow, cautious step back, and then two more steps. My gaze was fixed on the counter, or rather, whatevery behind it, but I continued walking backwards. Before I knew it, I had arrived at the cosmetics and beauty section, and I was greeted by mirrors. ''N-no¡­'' The reflections were perfect. I touched one, and it was solid. As much as I would have loved to assume that I was dreaming, reality told me otherwise. "I-I am¡­ awake¡ª?" ~BOOM!~ Something erupted from behind the counter, leaping from its hidden ce out into the open. The being defied reason, and all I could see was a very thin and malformed gray blur. ''N-not¡­ a dream¡­?'' The pain in my head intensified as my heart raced. But I had seen this monster countless times in my nightmares. They were called Demons, weren''t they? [SYSTEM WARNING] The emaciated creature, its long arms and razor-sharp teeth attached to powerful jaws, moved too rapidly for my eyes to fully capture. Before I could even move a muscle, it materialized right in front of me. ''N-no¡­ no, I¡ª!'' ~SQUELCH~ I didn''t realize when its hand became buried deep in my chest. Blood dripped, slowly making a red puddle beneath me, yet I remained paralyzed. [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} "Ack.. koff¡­ haaa¡­ haa¡­" I nced at the grinning creature, realizing it still had a piece ofb coat on. Its features vaguely resembled the pharmacist of this drugstore, if I could ignore its bald head, slimy grey skin, and deformed face. Although, it was now nothing more than a monster. "S-so¡­ will I die here?" Why? Even though I knew this wasn''t a dream, why wasn''t I freaking out? It''s not like I had an extra life tucked away in my pocket. I didn''t believe in God or anything, so this was it! Was I really okay with letting my life end just like that? Why wasn''t I more terrified by the creature that had just killed me?! Perhaps¡­ perhaps I already knew the answers to these questions. After all, this wasn''t the first time. It wasn''t the tenth time, not even the millionth time; that I had been killed in my dream. In all my dreams, every single nightmare I had¡­ I was always killed. That was the threshold of pain that was required to wake me. ''But this isn''t a dream¡­'' I thought to myself, feeling my consciousness drift away. ''... Or is it?'' [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: The Dream; your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] * * * [A/N] I hope you enjoyed this second chapter. In case you don''t understand what''s happening yet, just keep reading, it''ll be clearer to you. Please continue to support me. Thanks. Chapter 3: The End Of The World

Chapter 3: The End Of The World

We all carry our "Inner Demons," is a phrase I once thought held a basic truth. Back then, it felt like a casual observation, shedding light on the private battles we all endure. Yet, life had a surprise in store for me - a twist I never sawing. These words, once mere thoughts, started manifesting in a literal sense. The unexpected became reality, reshaping everything I thought I knew. ***** [You are Dead] {Based On Exclusive Skill: Dream, your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] ***** [7:30 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "A-ahh¡­" Groaning softly, I opened my eyes to a gentle headache, as if the world was saying a quiet hello. My fingersbed through my tousled dark brown hair as I eased myself out of bed, my hand soothingly pressing against my forehead. "I suppose I''ll visit the drugstoreter," I mumbled to myself, considering the mild ache. Stepping a few paces away from my bed, I paused in front of the mirror, my reflection gazing back at me. Everything seemed normal at first nce, yet a lingering uncertainty lingered beneath the surface. It was time for my daily ritual. "I need to make sure I''m not in a... d-d... dr-dream...?" I stammered. But wait... something felt off. Was it just my imagination? I scrutinized my reflection closely, feeling a sort of d¨¦j¨¤ vu. It was unsettling enough to make me question reality. Perhaps, just maybe... I reached out, fingertips brushing the cool surface of the mirror. A shiver trailed up my spine as a cold tingle spread through my palm. But the moment I made contact, a rush surged through me, memories flooding in like a tidal wave. Slowly, my eyes widened, realization dawning upon me. "ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!" My eyes turned bloodshot, and I tightly clutched my head, screaming at the top of my lungs. ''W-what is¡­ what is all this?!'' My brain felt like it would explode, and I saw several images ovep even when I closed my eyes. My fingers dug into my skin, a desperate attempt to anchor myself amidst the chaos. In an instant, the details of the ''nightmare'' I''d just awoken from, came rushing back. No, not just a nightmare. It was something else. ''Everything¡­ my whole life up until now¡­ has been nothing but a dream¡­?'' It felt like my whole world had copsed. ''No¡­ was it just yesterday? No. It''s today. Yes¡­ Today¡­ I dreamt of today.'' What did it all mean? Why did I dream of this very day, its details etched with vivid rity? "No... not the first time, is it?" My thoughts churned, threatening to tear me apart. It felt like I was going crazy, yet I forced myself to breathe. "Haaa¡­ Mikey calm yourself." Hearing my calm voice did the trick. I could finally feel my racing heart settle down, and the goosebumps on my skin slowly disappeared. In no time, I was back to normal. My thoughts slowly began to restructure themselves, and I began to understand all that I was feeling. "Those dreams¡­ they were all real?" Yes. Since I was ten years old, I''ve had dreams where I did things I shouldn''t have been able to do. Dreams were manifestations oftent knowledge, dominant thoughts, or abstract ideas, but still, they were subject to the influence of mind and memory, Despite this fact, I frequently dreamt of monsters, entities, events, knowledge, and even certain individuals I shouldn''t have been acquainted with¡ªor even possessed the capacity to know. I kept journals to track some of the things I dreamt of. Some dreams were recurrent, while others urred only once. When I turned fifteen, I began to have a lot of recurring dreams. That was because, on my fifteenth birthday, I had a rather peculiar nightmare. It showed me the end of the world. "Haa¡­ who would have thought that everything was real." But, how could I be so sure? None of the things I saw should have existed in reality. I only had vague recollections of those dreams, and my journals were nowhere to be found at this point. I could recollect some dreams that stood out, but I couldn''t remember everything. Even then, dreaming about monsters and some sort of apocalypse¡­ wasn''t that a bit too much? "I must be losing my mind... keuk!" My head throbbed and my fingers clenched involuntarily. Yeah, I just needed to take my medication. "There''s probably nothing to worry about." ***** I decided to throw caution to the wind and go to the drugstore before heading to the gym that day. As expected, I crossed paths with the pharmacist who had attended to me. This tall,nky man had a gaze so narrow it sent a faint unease rippling through me, yet I had an underlying sense that he was a good guy at heart. After leaving the drugstore, I made my way to the gym. I arrived a littleter than usual, but nothing much seemed to have changed. As always, I was greeted by my gym buddies, and we had a wonderful time together. Due to myte arrival, I finished my sets a bitter than usual. It didn''t matter much to me, though, considering it was still bright out. ''I''ll return home and finish working on my project.'' I thought to myself as I stepped into the gym''s shower. After showering and getting dressed, I sauntered toward the main workout area to say goodbye to my buddies. Unlike them, I couldn''t spend too long training my body. However¡­ "W-what¡­?" ¡­ I found an empty workout hall. No one was in sight. It was utterly silent. "U-um¡­ guys? Where are you? Is this some sort of prank?" shes of myst nightmare began appearing in my head, and a feeling of dread slowly crept over me. And then¡ª [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The realm of the gods, Paradise, will be revealed to the chosen humans. Ovee the 99 Floors and reach the Final Realm.} {Your mission is to survive the Tutorial so you can qualify to enter Paradise. Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 168 hrs: 00 mins: 00 secs} ¡ªIt appeared again. Just like before, a System Window manifested in front of me. "Haa¡­ haa¡­ it hadn''t just been a dream." My chest felt constricted and I could hear myself struggling to breathe already. ~FSHUUUUUUUUU¡­~ A low hissing sound slowly began permeating the workout hall, forcing me to look around. I started noticing dark splotches, resemblingrge puddles of murky mud, sttered in various directions across the room ''RUN!'' A voice whispered harshly into my ears, but my body remained frozen for some reason. Emerging from the grimy puddles of mud were creatures resembling the one I had encountered in my dream. A few of them were clothed in remnants of the vests and tight shorts my workout buddies often sported. I could even spot the striped pink shorts of a particrly queer one. Unfortunately, the beings who had these outfits on weren''t the buddies I knew. Not anymore! [SYSTEM WARNING] ''RUN!'' I heard the voice again. This time I listened, forcing my trembling feet to action as I rushed towards the exit. Unfortunately¡­ ~SQUELCH!~ Yes, that''s right. I was pierced again! Not just once or twice, but in so many ces that blood began to gush out of my body. ''Ah¡­ haa¡­ am I going to die?'' [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will die soon¡­} Looks like I had my answer. Death was just around the corner. ''... Or was it?'' I hated the pain I felt. More than that, I despised the regret that lurked inside me. I should have known better. I should have believed it was a dream. ''I-if there is a next time¡­ I will believe! This is a dream. It is a dream! It is a¡­'' [You Are Dead] {Based On Exclusive Skill: The Dream, your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] ****** [7:30 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "A-ahh." I rubbed my head, feeling a mild headache. "... I guess I''ll go check in with the drugstoreter." I rose to my feet, my body groaning as I walked toward the mirror ahead, about to begin my daily ritual¡ª ''RUN!'' A jolt shot through me, freezing me in ce. ''RUN!'' I was stunned, unable to understand what was happening. Louder and louder, the sound echoed in my pounding head. ''... I will believe it! This is a dream. It is a dream! It is a¡­'' Pain seared through my mind, and I screamed, caught between the horror of the past and the terror of the unknown ahead. In those days, I was ignorant. I was too young back then. Even when I came close to being killed not too long ago, I still couldn''t grasp what was going on. However, in that moment when it seemed like my skull might shatter and I would die from the influx of all the lives I had experienced and lost,prehension began to dawn upon me. ''I¡­ I have been dreaming this whole time!'' And the worst part slowly began to sink in. ''The nightmares¡­ They''re just getting started!'' * * * [A/N] No one should dare call the MC retarded. Try to understand things from his perspective. It''s a wonder that he hasn''tmitted suicide, considering how he thinks he''s going crazy. Mad respect to Mikey. Chapter 4: Dreamer

Chapter 4: Dreamer

[9:39 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "I''m going to die¡­" I whispered, biting my nails while tucked away in the corner of my room. Those words just wouldn''t stop echoing in my head. My skin felt all tingly and my heart was racing faster than a cheetah. It was like I was going nuts, just sitting there for what felt like ages. "We''re all going to die¡­" Despair wrapped its icy fingers around my heart, and I was held tight in the clutches of terror. I was sweating like I''d run a marathon in the rain, and the room smelled like¡­ well, you don''t wanna know. Even with all that craziness, I couldn''t make myself move an inch. "A-all¡­ all of us¡­ are dead¡­" Ever since I remembered that creepy dream I''d had, the one I ignored but then ended up dying in a really painful way, my head felt like it was in a blender. There was a disconnect between my thoughts and my body, and I felt frozen, unable to move or do anything. Was this what they called despondency? The realization that those nightly terrors weren''t mere figments of my imagination but rather glimpses into a terrible future gradually dawned on me. Or maybe not. It was more like I had lived through those horrors, fully aware of the agony until my life was cruelly snuffed out. It then became a dream when I died. Not a mere dream, but a relentless NIGHTMARE! "Am I dreaming now? Is this¡­ is this just a nightmare?" In the past, I''d look in the mirror to make sure I wasn''t losing it. But now, even the mirror seemed unreliable. By all means, I was supposed to bepletely awake¡ªfully in touch with reality. Yet¡­ yet¡­ ''Am I going crazy? I''m crazy, right?'' My grip on reality was like trying to hold onto a slippery fish, and I felt like I was standing on the edge of goingpletely bonkers. ***** [10:03 AM] ''My head¡­ It hurts. The pain is getting worse.'' I muttered, wincing at the growing difort. My gaze fixed on the clock before me, still hunched over in my seat. "Almost time," I breathed out, my voice a soft murmur. I couldn''t pinpoint the exact moment the world had ended, but I knew it hadn''t clocked noon when my life ended both times. It was perhaps a little past 11 AM. ''D-does that mean I can make a quick dash to the pharmacy to get my meds?'' If I hurried, I could relieve this pain that constantly made me miserable. "But..." The memory of what happened in the pharmacy flooded back, and I gasped, my eyes wide with horror. A shiver ran through me, my body''s way of reliving the fear. "No, I can''t go out. Not now." My voice trembled as I grappled with fear, the pain in my head ring up, as if my mind wasing apart. "Wait... I can order the meds online, right?" A smallugh escaped me, a mix of relief and self-mocking. Why hadn''t I thought of that before? Yeah, that''s it. If I did that, I wouldn''t have to step outside. A flicker of hope rose as I noticed myptop across the room ¨C my way out in this storm of agony. ''Haa¡­ haha¡­ hahahaha¡­'' A dry, almost desperate chuckle broke free. No need toplicate things. Just needed to quiet the pain in my head, to find some peace in the chaos. "I can buy it onli¡ª" >ZZZZTTZZZZ< Right when myptop blinked on, filling the room with its glow, everything plunged into darkness. "Eeeeek!" I screamed, curling into a ball as my brain threatened to explode due to the pain. I waited for a few seconds, hoping for a quick fix or for someone to show up. But nothing changed. No one came. "A-ah..." Blinking my eyes open and looking around, it hit me. This was just a power outage. Amon urrence in my apartmentplex, thanks to our cheapskatendlord who refused to fix the faulty wiring of the building. "Haha... haha..." A sigh of relief slipped out, a weak chuckle in the dark. But that feeling faded fast. After all, this ckout presented another major challenge. "No inte¡­" The Apartment Complex''s Wifi, and even my personal router, required electricity to function. No power meant no inte. ''No inte means...'' I nced at myptop, its cracked screen barely visible. The hope it had sparked was now smothered by despair. "Ahhh..." Frustration bubbled up, my headache turning into a full-blown migraine. Stress, pain ¨C they all crashed together, weighing me down. It felt like I was falling apart, and the thought of not making it was creeping in. At this rate, I was sure I''d die." How much longer could Ist? ***** [10: 37 AM] "Haa¡­ haa¡­" I was currently on the road, running as fast as my legs could carry me. My breaths escaped in ragged gasps, trembling lips parting as I fought to catch my breath. My gaze darted frantically, but I forced my focus on the path ahead. ''There''s time. There''s still time!'' The drugstore was just around the corner. I had to hurry. ***** [10:43 AM] "Mikey, you look like a sight for sore eyes. You really need to¡ª" I cut off thenky pharmacist mid-sentence. My voice quivered as I blurted out, "H-here! I want this!" I dumped as many painkillers as thew would allow onto the counter, my breathing out in ragged gasps. There was no room for chitchat, no time for even a chuckle at his jokes. My mind was miles away, and my patience had run thin. At this point, my brain felt ready to pop like a balloon, strings pulled tight. "Jeez¡­ so sweaty. I got it. I got it. Sheesh. Maybey off the workout a bit?" He said, scanning the items at a pace that tested myst nerve. ''Hurry up! Hurry up!'' My internal chant matched the tap of my impatient fingers as I slid the cash toward him. "Alright. Here''s the receipt. Your change is¡ª" "Keep the change!" Running off, I could feel an odd sensation and the moment I looked back, I realized¡­ the pharmacist had vanished. "Ahhh¡­ no, no, no, no, no, no!" Picking up my pace, despite my tired and aching body, I rushed towards my home. ''Please. PLEASE LET ME MAKE IT BACK!'' I looked left, then right, and the realization hit me square in the gut¡ªI was the only person on the road. Deserted streets stretched before me, hollow and lifeless. Silence. Emptiness. And then¡­ Danger. I could feel it close in on me as I got to my street. >DING!< I could feel it all over my skin as I got to my apartmentplex. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The realm of the gods, Paradise, will be revealed to the chosen humans. Ovee the 99 Floors and get to the Final Realm.} {Your mission is to survive the Tutorial so you can be qualified to enter Paradise. Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 168 hrs: 00 mins: 00 secs} As I reached my doorstep, I sensed it gripping my throat, a suffocating presence. I fought to open the door to my sanctuary, desperate to seal the outside world away from me for good. [SYSTEM WARNING] I could¡­ >SQUELCH!< ''Haa¡­ what did I expect?'' [SYSTEM WARNING] The ws of the grotesque beings had already dug into my body, and the sound of painkillers dropping into my pool of blood reached my ears. Amidst these sensations, that familiar feeling returned. A strange calmness washed over me, erasing the pounding headache and submerging me in tranquility. Once again, it felt as though I was in a dream. {You will soon die¡­} I closed my eyes, embracing the pain, and letting the darkness swallow me whole. It was at this point that I realized that I never existed, to begin with. This was simply a dream¡­ [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: The Dream, your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] ¡­ And I was the Dreamer. * * * [A/N] Will Mikey find a way out of this maddening loop? Or will he continue to suffer like this forever? Find out in the next chapter! If you''ve made it this far, it shows you''re genuinely interested in the story. So, please¡­ SUPPORT ME! Thank you. Chapter 5: A Step Forward

Chapter 5: A Step Forward

[9:33 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "You really should take it easy with the workouts, Mikey," she said, her voice tinged with concern. I stood in the drugstore, finallypleting the purchase of my painkillers from the ever-cheerful pharmacist who always attended to me. "Haha, thanks¡­" I chuckled softly, masking the growing strength of the pain pulsating in my head. It had been around two hours since I had awoken from my nightmare, yet the throbbing sensation felt even worse now, than it had during that terrifying dream. Exiting the pharmacy, I directed my steps toward my residence. And no, I don''t mean my apartmentplex. Just a stone''s throw away from the drugstore stood my new home ¨C a four-star hotel, a ce I had only dreamed of residing in before. Earlier this morning, I had spent nearly all my savings to move in. ''The world is screwed anyway.'' I sighed internally, my fingers gently massaging my forehead as I stepped into the grand lobby of the hotel. The sound of the grand piano ying in the background caught my attention. I stopped for a moment to admire the massive chandelier hanging from the ceiling, sparkling in the beautiful light of thete afternoon sun that filtered in through the tall windows. The atmosphere buzzed with life ¨C guests checked in with anticipation, others lounged on plush sofas, and the diligent hotel staff performed their bustling tasks. ''In just a matter of hours, everyone will...'' I let that thought out of my mind, deciding to savor this present moment despite the persistent aches throbbing within my skull. Making my way to the reception desk, I spotted the friendly secretary who had attended to me two hours earlier. I thought she was pretty cute. "Oh, Mr. Mikey. Anything I can help you with?" She asked me the moment I approached her. I was surprised she remembered my name. But, on a second thought, she was just doing her job, wasn''t she? There was nothing special about it. "Just wanted to check if my deliveries have arrived," I responded with a sweet smile. Before heading to the pharmacy, I had made an array of purchases with my remaining funds, ensuring I spent everyst cent. "Ah, not yet. I''ll be sure to inform you when they do. Your room number is in our system, so I''ll give you a call," she assured me. "Oh¡­ okay," I replied, wincing as my head pounded with greater intensity. "I''ll be waiting, then." I could only hope that my goods arrived before 11:00 AM. That seemed to be the usual time when the bizarre ''End of the World'' phenomenon urred ¨C the one that weird System called "Paradise." It sounded like a bad joke. Taking the elevator, I went up to my room on the first floor, my appreciation for the luxury furnishings and refined decor of the hotel growing with each step. The walls were decorated with tasteful art pieces, and the carpet underfoot pampered my feet with its plush softness. The atmosphere exuded an air of sophistication and elegance. Once I arrived on the first floor, I hurriedly walked to my room and inserted my key card into the slot, and the door clicked open. The moment I got in, I shut the door behind me, ensuring it was properly locked. Perhaps I was being too paranoid, but if anyone had seen the horrors I had experienced, they would definitely understand. As I stepped inside, I was once again struck by the spaciousness of the room. The king-size bed dominated the space and there was afortable armchair in the corner, perfect for rxing after a long day. The room had all the cool stuff you''d expect nowadays ¨C a t-screen TV, a mini-fridge, even a coffee machine. The bathroom was all clean and shiny, stocked up with fluffy towels and free toiletries. The window had a killer view of the city skyline, but right now, the curtains were drawn, so you couldn''t see any of that. "First things first¡­" I mumbled to myself, grabbing my painkillers and washing them down with a bottle of water I had lying around. "Ah¡­" The pain wasn''t exactly gone, but at least it eased up a bit. ''Maybe a couple more pills will do it.'' Technically, it''d be too much, but desperate times, right? So, I swallowed two more. ''Much better!'' Once that wave of relief settled in, I copsed onto the bed, shutting my eyes and piecing together how I ended up in this crazy reality. ***** After dying in my nightmare and then waking up, I nearly got trapped in the same loop again before finally snapping out of it. As always, the agonizing pain apanied the memories of those nightmares, hitting me like a tidal wave. This time, it was even more intense than before, and my headache seemed to be cranked up to an unbearable level. Yet, no matter the cost, I knew I couldn''t allow myself to die all over again. The trauma of it all, and the pain, would be beyond anything I could ever imagine. How could I subject myself to such torture? ''Am I trapped in a dream? Am I just a dream?'' I asked myself, but no answer presented itself. So, I made a decision ¨C I needed to take charge. The first order of business was to recall the key details of my nightmares, especially that damn System Notice that always popped up before my demise. From what I could recall, I needed to roughly set the event''s time around 11 AM, and then I needed to remember the contents of the System Window. Yeah, there was a lot of gibberish about a ''Realm of Gods,'' ''Floors,'' and other nonesense I didn''t get at all. But one detail stuck out as both familiar and important ¨C the mention of a ''Tutorial.'' "I have to survive the Tutorial. Every time I died¡­ it was during the Tutorial." If I wanted to break free from the endless loop of my nightmares, I had to survive past that Tutorial stage. The System Window also said the Tutorialsted for 168 hours ¨C a week. I just had to hang on for a week. With that goal in mind, I had to weigh my options carefully, calcte every chance of survival, and raise those odds as high as they could go. "I can''t stick around here for a week!" I muttered to myself. Staying put had its problems, especially with the looming power outage, not to mention theck of security. If I was going to make it through this, I needed a spot that was both safe and familiar. And so, I settled on the four-star hotel. It was pricey, and I only booked it for a day. But honestly, that''s all I should need. Opting for the first floor, I figured it''d be easier to escape if things went south. After checking in, I rushed to the drugstore to grab my meds, but not before making onest crucial decision. I had to stock up on supplies ¨C for myself. My travel bags, brought into the hotel, were loaded mostly with food. There was a bit of clothing and some devices too, just in case. But my main focus, my top priority for surviving through the week, was food. So, I used up thest of my savings to buy as much food as I could. Fast food, junk food, canned goods, soda, and energy bars ¨C you name it. Oh, and water. I needed to have water covered too. But since a fancy hotel like this would likely have a reliable water supply, I figured I didn''t need to stress too much about it. I would make this ce my base, preparing for any and all issues that could arise during and even after the Tutorial. I mean, if this so-called ''Tutorial'' part was already this intense, what kind of nightmare was waiting for me next? * * * [A/N] I''m trying to be faster with the story now. Please support this novel if you enjoy it. Cheers. Chapter 6: New Status

Chapter 6: New Status

[11:00 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "Haa¡­" Surrounded by protective walls, and an abundance of meals at my disposal, I sat on my bed and awaited the ''Announcement'' that marked the beginning of it all. >DING!< Exactly as it yed out in my dream, a System Window manifested before me, revealing the familiar sight I had seen multiple times already. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The realm of the gods, Paradise, will be revealed to the chosen humans. Ovee the 99 Floors and get to the Final Realm.} {Your mission is to survive the Tutorial so you can be qualified to enter Paradise. Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 168 hrs: 00 mins: 00 secs} ''And just like that, it had begun.'' I swallowed hard, feeling a shiver ripple through me. But when the announcement disappeared, something even more surprising happened. "Huh? My headache''s gone?" The same change seemed to happen to my trembling body. For some reason, I feltpletely normal, like everything was just right. My head cleared up, and I felt lighter, as if a weight had lifted. My heart, which had been racing, slowed down, and even the fear seemed to fade away. It felt amazing. "Maybe this is a Skill?" I wondered aloud. Back in my old dreams, the ones I used to have, there were things like Status Windows and Skills. This reality I was in now felt a lot like those dreams. They had to be connected. "So, I should have a [Status Window], right?" I said. And just like that, a screen appeared in front of me, showing things that should have blown my mind. But strangely, it was like I already knew how to make sense of it. It almost felt like muscle memory. "Weird," I said quietly, looking at the screen without getting too worked up. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 3/3 - Energy Level: 1/1 - Combat Ability: 2/2 - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 100 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: - Alignment: Neutral Good [Additional Information] You can experience the events of the world through the ''other ne''. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. [End Of Information] "Well, I suppose this is to be expected." My Stats were all abysmally low, and I found myself stuck at Level 1. It seemed that this was the starting point for everyone, after all. I looked at some parts of the info that seemed really important. "So, my Life Force is like my HP, and Energy Level is my MP. Combat Ability must be stuff like Strength, Dexterity, and Agility." Even if the System didn''t spell it out, it had to be what Combat Ability meant. This world truly seemed to operate like a game, much like the ones I encountered in my dreams. The concept mirrored those role-ying games where a yer''s prowess was distilled into quantifiable information and numbers. Speaking of numbers, though¡­ "I''ve got Zero Stat Points. Maybe I get more when I Level Up. That makes sense." I haven''t yed many games, but I know leveling up means getting stronger. I also saw something called ''Currency.'' "That''s like coins. It''s pretty obvious." But everything after that, I had no clue. "Role? Authority? That''s gotta be rted to my Exclusive Skill, right?" All of those three had something to do with dreams. I guess it was safe to conclude that this was something simr to a ss or Job, right? But did that mean there were other ''Dreamers'' like me? ''No, I think I''m the only one. One of my Titles is . I guess that has to do with thatst nightmare I had. Is that¡­ the end of the world?'' That thought gave me the chills. Thinking about it was already scary enough. "No, no. Let''s focus on the present. I need to find out more about my skills and abilities and how I can survive." My fighting skills were undeniably weak, and the rest of my Stats weren''t much to brag about either. With three Titles to my name and just one solitary Skill in my arsenal, I found myself in desperate need of a deeperprehension of these abilities. Without this understanding, my chances of sess in any encounter appeared to be incredibly bleak, and failure seemed inevitable. "borate On My Titles." I spoke, guided by instinct. [Titles] : The user is calm and level-headed in situations that would otherwise cause severe mental distress. Thisposure isn''t absolute, though. Severe mental attacks and traumas can still cause the user to break hisposure. : As someone who has reached the end, dreams and fragmented memories can sometimes be imparted. Instinctive reactions such as muscle memory and a few other symptoms may be experienced. : Just like everyone who didn''t get turned into monsters, The user has this title because he''s a candidate who can enter the Tower Of Trials in order to get to Paradise. [End Of Information] "I see. I see." As each piece of the puzzle fell into ce, I couldn''t help but marvel at the rity slowly dawning on me. It was no wonder that an unexpected calmness washed over my senses, and even the strange dreams I''d been having started bing clearer to me. What truly surprised me, though, was the absence of overwhelming confusion in the face of these peculiar urrences, even though it would have been perfectly reasonable to feel utterly confused. ''Well, this has its own kind of silver lining, I guess.'' As for thest Title, , it was the reason I was still human. This meant that all those monsters out there were once people like me. I had suspected as much, but it didn''t make the reality any less chilling. I was curious, though. ''How many humans became monsters, and how many of us were chosen to stay human?'' I didn''t have the answers to those questions, so there was no point in asking. My time was best spent focusing on things I had direct control over. Then, what about my Skills? I only had one, but¡­ "borate On Skills." [Skills] (Exclusive) : Allows the user to experience future events in the form of a dream. These future events are basically the user''s experience. Trauma could be experienced as a result of this Skill. {Note: User may not take his own life or intentionally try to use this Skill. It will not activate.} (Non-Exclusive) ''Wow, it''s pretty straightforward.'' I''d already pieced together most of this information, but having it spelled out was something else entirely. "So, every time I dream, it''s actually a version of me dying? That''s brutal." Did that mean that time was being reversed, and I was still the ''me'' that died? Or had I be someone else ? ''I still have the memories of the version of myself that died in my dream. I can surmise that it''s me. Yes, they''re all me.'' Thinking any deeper about it hurt my brain. ''I also can''t reset reality intentionally. That''s a hardcore limitation. Looks like if I have to die, it''ll have to be unintentional.'' Moving on, from what I could understand about ''Exclusive'', it seemed I was the only one who had ess to this Skill. Well, it could also mean that it was Exclusive to the ''Role'' and ''Authority'' I had, and it was possible that I wasn''t the only one with them. ''But why do I have a feeling that it''s the former? Well, I''ll just go with that.'' It seemed I could obtain Skills that weren''t rted to dreaming, thanks to the Non-Exclusive section of my Skills. That was a relief, considering , or pretty much any Skill I could derive from a Role wasn''t really going to aid inbat. "Looks like I could eventually get Items. I haven''t seen a Shop yet, but there has to be a way to spend the ''Currency'' I had. I guess all of that wille in due time." Finally, there was one thing that worried me the most. "The [Additional Information] and what it says." Apparently, my power was coveted, but also scary. If my power allowed me to see beyond this world''s events, did that mean I could also glimpse the past? Would I see even more as time went on? I had a lot of questions, but I suppose they would have to wait. "For now, I''ll just rx. Maybe eat something." The lights in my room were turned off, so it was kind of dark, but not unbearably so. I made sure everywhere was locked tight and secure, so it didn''t seem like I would be disturbed. ''I just have to¡ª'' ~H-heeellppp¡­~ A whisper suddenly echoed in my head. ''H-huh?'' ~P-please¡­ H-help mee¡­!!~ The voice became louder and more desperate. Suddenly, I heard a soft knock on my front door. It sounded hollow, yet urgent. I felt a sensation course through me that resembled fear, but it was quickly suppressed. The knock continued, relentless and desperate. ~I''m right in front of you. P-please¡­ help!~ * * * [A/N] Another survivor enters into the picture¡­ or is it something else entirely? Chapter 7: Survivor [Pt 1]

Chapter 7: Survivor [Pt 1]

[11:21 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "Who''s there?" I whispered gently, a shiver coursing through me. Not only because of the strange sensation of someone invading my thoughts, but also due to the incessant knocking that reverberated from my room''s entrance. It grew more desperate with each passing moment. ~Please hurry! They''reing! They''reing for me! Please hurry!~ The urgency in the voice within my mind was palpable. Could it be another survivor? Had they somehow escaped the clutches of the monsters and made it this far? My thoughts raced to make sense of the situation unfolding before me. I cautiously inched closer to the door, wondering if the System would provide any warning about an encounter with a Demon. I had no clear idea of the proximity required for such a warning, but judging from my dreams¡ªor rather, my earlier experiences¡ªit seemed I had already met the criteria. Standing barely a hair''s breadth from the door, I brought my eyes closer to the peephole, terrified of the potential danger. A part of me was scared I''d get stabbed in the eye or something, but I somehow found the courage to do it anyway. "No way!" My eyes widened the moment I saw the woman standing on the other side, her face glistening with sweat and tears streaming down her cheeks. ''It''s the nice secretary from earlier!'' Her panic-stricken expression broke my heart, and I could see her sobbing as she looked to her left and right, terrified of what may be lurking in the shadows. ~P-please, I know you''re there. Please help me, Mikey!~ Her voice reached me, and the familiarity wasn''t surprising; after all, she was the one who handled my deliveries and the person I often interacted with at the front desk. Seeing as she desperately pleaded to be saved¡­ how could I, in good conscience, refuse? ''DON''T DO IT!'' A voice that sounded like mine sharply pierced my head. However, it was toote;passion had already won over reason. Swiftly, I unlocked the door with my card and turned the doorknob, allowing her to enter. And just in time too. [SYSTEM WARNING] "E-eh¡­?" My eyes widened in surprise as I watched the receptionistdy swiftly dart past me. "Eeeeek!" She stumbled inside just in the nick of time, and in that same moment, the grotesque hand of a monstrous entity snaked into the passageway. My heart raced, confronted with the very thing that had impaled me numerous times before. A bead of sweat instantly formed on my forehead, and a shiver ran down my spine. "Close it! Hurry!" The receptionist screamed, sobbing as she looked at me desperately. "A-ah!" I reacted quickly, mming the door shut and securing it with my card before leaping away from it, as if trying to put as much distance as possible between me and the horrors lurking outside. >DUM!< >DUM!< >DUM!< The monster, whatever it was, pounded at my sturdyyer of defence, creating loud reverberating echoes that caused my heart to pound madly. ''What if this noise attracts others? If more monsters attack, won''t the door eventually fall? What would I do then? Fuck!'' Now I understood why my thoughts had cautioned me to not open the door, even though an innocent person was behind it. ''No, what was I supposed to do? Leave her to die? I can''t do that!'' But, didn''t I leave everyone else to die? Billions of people in the world, and I had only cared about my survival. How was this situation any different? ''S-she was right in front of me, asking for help! I couldn''t just abandon her! I¡­.'' My inner turmoil intensified, and with each passing moment, it felt like my mental strength was slowly draining away. I could sense myself reverting into the same fearful person I was when I first stepped foot into this room. ''FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK!'' And then, suddenly¡­ "W-what?" ¡­ The pounding stopped. I strained my ears, listening intently to the fading echoes of footsteps that undoubtedly belonged to the monstrous entity. It was inexplicably moving away from my front door. ''But why?'' I wondered, my mind racing toprehend the unexpected turn of events. Had it stumbled upon another unfortunate soul in the dimly lit hallway? Or had it simply abandoned its pursuit, perhaps more easily than I could have ever imagined? I had no idea. The only thing on my mind at that point was gratitude and relief. ''I didn''t die. I didn''t die. Haaa¡­ I came this far and I didn''t die.'' Words couldn''t describe how relieved I felt about the whole thing. Sure, I probably wouldn''t have gotten into this whole mess if I had left thedy to her fate, but if the Demon¡ªas it was called by the System¡ª had killed her, I probably wouldn''t have been able to live with myself. ''I would have been¡­'' I stopped myself mid-thought and took a deep breath, banishing the memories of my past. Of the ne crash that killed my parents and little brother. Back then, there was nothing I could have done. I hadn''t even been on the flight. I couldn''t me myself for their deaths. Just as I couldn''t shoulder the me for the current state of the world, a world teetering on the brink of chaos and despair, a world in which countless lives hung in the bnce. But to stand face to face with someone in dire need of help and turn away, it felt as though I were pulling the trigger myself. "Fuck¡­" I whispered, my eyes closed. Despite my best attempt to avoid those thoughts, they kept surfacing. "T-thank you¡­" A voice suddenly echoed in my ear, chasing away the gloomy thoughts that threatened to swallow me whole. I slowly opened my eyes, greeted by the sight of the receptionist, her tearful smile radiating warmth and gratitude in equal measure. "I¡­ I would have died without you." She sobbed even further as her quivering lips curled up to grant me the warmest smile I had received in the longest time. "Thank you so much!" Tears welled in her eyes and fell down her cheeks, tugging at the strings of my heart. ''How could I have ever doubted my decision?'' That''s right. In that moment, as I watched the survivor, her eyes brimming with the joy of being alive, I knew with certainty. ''I made the right choice.'' * * * [A/N] What do you all think? Do you think he shouldn''t have helped her? Let me know your thoughts. Chapter 8: Survivor [Pt 2]

Chapter 8: Survivor [Pt 2]

[11:43 AM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] "M-my name is Lisa. Lisa Scofield." Her voice trembled as she introduced herself, and I sat across from her in my suite, keenly listening to her hesitant words. We were both still grappling with the shock of our near-death experience, so her stuttering introduction was entirely understandable. "I''m Mikey Rael. Just call me Mikey, but¡­ ah, you already know my name." Iughed a little awkwardly. My nerves had settled thanks to the effects of my Title, allowing me to manage augh. It was rather convenient to possess such a Title. ''I wonder what Title she has¡­'' So far, we hadn''t said much to each other. Other than casual pleasantries, and trying to calm ourselves down, this was pretty much our first proper interaction since the Demon left. "W-well, you should have known my name too. Haha¡­ it''s on my name tag¡­" She pointed at a tag that was firmly fixed to her bulging chest. Perhaps it was because her shirt was drenched in sweat, but it seemed a bit more provocative than usual. I quickly looked away, of course. It wasn''t appropriate to stare at ady that way. "Is that so? Well, I guess I was just too distracted to see the tag. It''s good to hear it, though. Your name. You have a nice name." "You too. Mikey is a¡­ good name." "You cany it on me, it''s not amon name." Iughed a little, now feeling a bit morefortable with Lisa. "It''s not a nickname either. My parents had a weird naming quirk." "Really?" Lisa joined in theughter, which put me at ease. She seemed to be gradually oveing her fears. "Yeah. I mean, they named my brother Buddy." I hadn''t talked about my parents in years. It felt refreshing to talk about it, I guess. "And where are they now? Ah¡­ I''m so sorry, I didn''t¡­" It seemed Lisa finaly figured it out. I wondered what gave it away. My crestfallen face or the fact that we were both trapped in a hotel crawling with monsters that craved our deaths. "No, it''s fine. They died when I was ten. I lived with my uncle for most of my life, but he passed away recently too¡­" The realization struck me: perhaps going to the gym and my frequent visits to the pharmacist in the drugstore were my way of maintaining a connection to society. Due to my remote jobs, I rarely engaged in social interactions. Was that why epting the end of the world felt so easy for me? Because I had no one I truly cared about? "A-ah, I''m so sorry. I''m sorry I brought it up." Lisa apologized profusely, but she honestly didn''t need to. I had already made peace with their deaths. More importantly, there were other pressing matters to discuss. "What about your friends and family, Lisa? Have you been in contact with them?" "N-no¡­" Her expression quickly fell. "My cell is down. No service. I don''t know anything that''s happening beyond this ce." I figured this would happen. My inte and phone service were down too. It had to be connected to this new world we found ourselves in. Even though Lisa was still recoiling from her shock and worrying about the fate of her family, I had something that kept gnawing at me. Even though I had been pushing it aside since we first met, I had to address it now. "How did you escape the monsters?" "Huh¡­?" "The Demons. How did you survive them? You made it to the second floor, and you even reached my room without a scratch. How did you manage that?" I asked, my curiosity piqued. ncing at her attire, aside from the sweat that clung to it, there was no sign of harm or injury. She appeared perfectly fine. ''Humans can''t outrun or outgun those things,'' I mused. I had firsthand experience with them, and it was impossible for ordinary people to confront them, let alone someone like Lisa, a receptionist. ''Back then, she used Telepathy to speak to me. That means her Skills are different from mine. Maybe she has a Skill that allowed her to survive this far.'' Of course, this was all based on the assumption that she had more than one Skill. "I¡­ I watch a lot of anime." "What?" I couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow in surprise. "Anime. These sorts of things happen a lot in the anime I watch. I watch a lot of them." "Uh¡­ huh." Was she being serious right now? Could anime really prepare someone for a situation like this? I wasn''t an avid fan, so I couldn''t say for sure. My own preferences leaned more toward novels, particrly hyper-realistic ones. ''Novels like High School Syndrome¡­ not fantasy ones.'' "I was in the bathroom when it happened. I suddenly saw a System Announcement, and I instantly knew what was going on. So, I called up my Status Window and I was able to figure out what was happening." I blinked, taking in her exnation. Was anime genuinely that informative and useful? "I was the only one in the bathroom, so the first thing I did was lock the door. I decided to n my next course of action from there," Lisa said, continuing her story. The more I heard, the more impressed I became by her level-headedness. Unlike me, who had to endure the horrors of this reality multiple times, she had managed to pick herself up from the very beginning. "That was when it struck me." "What struck you?" I asked, my curiosity growing. You," she replied, a hint of determination in her eyes. "Me?" What was she talking about now? "You appear in this four-star hotel, saying it''s your first time here, even though your house address is close by. You kept looking around, admiring how fancy this ce was, even though it was pretty standard for a four-star hotel. It showed that you probably hadn''t been to a four-star hotel before. You ordered a lot of food and insisted on staying on the first floor, the most convenient for a quick escape." I was dumbfounded as Lisa listed her observations. Her attention to detail was astounding. "How did she figure all of that out?" I wondered. "The moment I put it all together, I decided to find my way to your room. I thought, for sure, if anyone survived, it would be you. Thankfully, I remembered the suite you lodged in, so I carefully made my way up here." But there was still a missing piece to the puzzle: how had she managed to evade the monsters that would have surely been swarming the reception area? Ah, wasn''t there a bathroom on the first floor? Maybe she used that. Lisa stared at me, her eyes focused as she continued to exin, "There''s a stairway that''s only avable to the staff. I knew I''d encounter fewer monsters there, so I decided to use that to my advantage. The System also warns us when we encounter monsters, but if you ensure you''re hidden when it appears, you''ll simply be aware that a Demon is close by." Her analysis blew my mind. I couldn''t believe the resourcefulness and quick thinking she had shown even under pressure. "It wasn''t easy, though. I was caught by one, and it began to chase me. It took too long for me to lose it. That''s why I''m so sweaty now. I was out of breath when I finally arrived in front of your door. I knew I had little time, so I used my only Skill tomunicate with you, betting it all on your response." In essence, if I had refused to save her, all her efforts and hopes would have been in vain. "You really trusted me that much?" I asked, genuinely touched by her faith in me. "Well..." Lisa gave a soft smile, and a rosy blush colored her cheeks. "You didn''t seem like the kind of person to abandon someone in need." I felt my heart skip a beat, but a twinge of guilt also washed over me. I couldn''t help but feel like I was receiving undeserved praise. "You''re wrong about me. I''m not that great a guy," I admitted with a small smile as I gazed at her. "But I am happy I saved you. I''m happy you made it this far." Considering Lisa''s resourcefulness and determination, I began to entertain the idea of sharing my knowledge with her. If she could survive on her own with limited information and a wealth of anime knowledge, wouldn''t she be an invaluable asset if she knew about my abilities? ''My knowledge of the future, and my Skill, in addition to her intelligence. If we coborate, we should have a higher chance at survival.'' "Lisa, there''s something I have to tell you." This was the best option. I could tell. Her eyes widened with curiosity as she leaned in, eager to hear more. "What is it?" * * * [A/N] The start of a blossoming friendship, and hopefully a chance for mutual survival. Chapter 9: Comrades

Chapter 9: Comrades

[12:21 PM; Saturday, 29th of April, 2023] I did it. I told Lisa everything about my dreams, how long they had been haunting me, and even how everything was connected to this new world we found ourselves in. I told her about the nature of my Skill, and how it functioned. I talked about how I had lived through this reality multiple times and just wanted to survive this time. The food I had stocked up on within the hotel room was more than enough for me. Even with the both of us, I didn''t see a problem with our feeding. I had made sure to stock up more than enough provisons for the Tutorial phase, after all. After revealing everything to Lisa, I observed her struggling to process the information. I knew it was a lot, but I also trusted her ability to quickly grasp the information I presented to her. "W-wow. That''s a lot, Mikey." She said, finally. "Yeah, I know, right? Of course, as a result of the limitation, I can''t intentionally use ." That meant, if anything happened, I would need to die by someone hostile¡ªor by ident. That worked too. ''I think even choosing to die by Demons could count as ''intentionally'' dying. I didn''t know what constituted the ''intention'', so I had to assume that I couldn''t ''want'' to activate the Skill on purpose. In essence, I wasn''t to premeditate my own death. ''Ah, my brain hurts again.'' Lisa reassured me, "This is amazing, Mikey. You''re basically immortal. If you y your cards right, no matter how many tries it takes, you''ll eventually attain your goal." Iughed awkwardly, dismissing her praise. "It''s not that great, really." "I''m serious, I''m a little jealous." She admitted. Now that I thought of it, I still didn''t know what Lisa''s Skills were. She most likely had only one. As for Titles, I couldn''t be sure. "What are your abilities?" I finally asked. There was a brief, awkward silence between us and Lisa shifted nervously. "W-well¡­" She stammered "Come on, you can tell me. I already spilled my secrets." I urged. She hesitated, then admitted, "It''s a bit embarrassing. Haha..." "Just say it. Don''t worry, I''ll understand." "Okay, okay. I''ll talk." And so, Lisa told me her Status Information. ***** "Pffft! Really? ? That''s crazy!" I couldn''t help but break my pact with Lisa the moment I heard that one of her Titles was "Anime Fanatic." It was downright hrious. I could see her pouting at me, but I couldn''t contain my amusement. "Sorry. Sorry. I totally get it." As it turned out, that Title was actually what enabled her to stay soposed in a world gone mad. It was an unexpectedly practical Title to possess. ''As expected, though, she only has one Skill. It''s . That was how she could talk to me through my mind.'' Her Role was different from mine, a , and her Authority was . I had to admit, it suited her quite well. However, unlike me, it seemed she''d never had any experiences that hinted at the reality we found ourselves in now. I''d been having these strange dreams since I was ten, but Lisa hadn''t encountered anything even remotely rted to her Role. ''Oh well¡­'' Apart from , she held two other Titles. One was the ever-mysterious , which seemed to be bestowed upon everyone who hadn''t been transformed into those monstrous beings. Her final Title was and its effect was curious - people naturally felt inclined to confide in her. ''That''s a weird Title, but it also exins things, I guess.'' I did feel like my secrets were safer with her, and she was a genuinely nice person. It had only been a few hours since we''d begun talking, yet it felt like we had known each other for ages. In no time, I waspletely at ease with her. And thankfully, she felt the same way about me. ''At the very least, I hope she survives this hell.'' It was only the first day, but I''d already found someone I cared deeply about, someone with whom I''d formed an unbreakable bond. "Let''s do our best to survive together, Lisa," I said, smiling at her and giving a reassuring nod. "Likewise, Mikey." ****** After our long conversation, I escorted Lisa to the bathroom, where she took a refreshing shower and swapped her clothes for one of the only spare sets avable - mine. It was a bit weird seeing her emerge, all changed, in my clothes, but given the circumstances, we had little choice but to resort to this arrangement. Naturally, I took the opportunity to freshen up as well. We continued our conversation for a little while longer until it was finally time to rest. My suite was quiterge, featuring three bathrooms¡ªone shared, and two within the separate bedrooms. Thisyout ensured we could take care of our personal needs without any awkwardness. ''It''s perfect. We get to have our private space. Different bathrooms. Different bedrooms.'' ¡­ Or so I thought. "I... I can''t sleep alone. Could I stay with you? Please?" Lisa''s unexpected request caught me off guard. She was wearing my shirt, which was obviously toorge for her, and nothing else covered her legs. She did have her underwear on, and my oversized clothes did provide some coverage, but not enough to conceal everything. In the end, I could still see lots of flesh peeking out. At first, I wanted to resist, but her insistence melted my resistance. I had initially nned to sleep on the floor or something, but she insisted I share the bed with her. We maintained a respectful distance, of course, but it still felt... cozy, albeit in an unconventional way. "Thank you, Mikey... honestly. I can''t thank you enough," she whispered as she sumbed to sleep before I did. Lisa must have been utterly exhausted, given that she dozed off mere minutes after copsing onto my bed. I made sure the sheets properly covered her body and I found myself smiling while watching her sleep. I felt strangely warm inside, and considering this was my first time experiencing such a thing, I couldn''t properly ce my feelings. "I''m thankful you survived too, Lisa," my thoughts echoed. With that sentiment in my heart, I settled beside her, finally drifting off to sleep after a considerable effort. ****** [7:30 AM; Sunday, 30th of April, 2023] "U-uhhh¡­" I stirred as I slowly woke up from my sleep, disoriented and groggy. Even without an rm, my internal clock had a knack for waking me up at precisely 7:30 AM. I assumed it to be that time as I tried to shift in bed, but every movement felt sluggish and rigid. Attempting to yawn, I found myself incapable, and even the effort to stretch my limbs was met with resistance. As sensation gradually returned to my body, a creeping difort coursed through me, intensifying my confusion. ''What is¡­ happening?'' I wondered, my vision still blurred. "Still enjoying your sleep, huh?" Lisa''s voice floated into my ears, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. What''s going on? I feel stiff all over. I wanted to say but found myself unable to speak. It wasn''t until my vision and my perceptive sensespletely cleared that I realized what was happening. "A gag? My mouth is being covered by a gag?" I realized, my lips silenced by the soft yet unyielding material of what appeared to be my own bedsheet. What exactly was happening? My body was firmly tied to the bed, with thin yet coarseyers of fabric crisscrossing around me, leaving me utterly immobile It was an absolute restraint. Panic surged in me. ''What''s going on here? Why am I tied up?'' I strained to move my head, desperate to catch a glimpse of Lisa, who sat calmly in a chair beside me. ''Lisa, answer me! What''s happening?!'' I pleaded. From my peripheral vision, I saw her expression, shockingly devoid of emotion. Her legs crossed casually, she seemed entirely unbothered by my predicament. "No. Don''t tell me..." I whispered, though the dread in my heart grew with every passing second. I didn''t want to believe it, but the moment I saw herpletely cold, detached gaze and her emotionless eyes, I began to understand what was happening. I¡­ "Apologies, Mikey. But this is the only way I can secure the life of my real friends." Lisa said with a chilling calmness. ¡­ Had been betrayed¡­ "You were a great help." Her usually pleasant voice was now tainted by something else; something darker. ¡­ By Lisa? It hit me like a sledgehammer. Suddenly, I remembered my earlier thoughts when I peered through the peephole back then. Back when I saved her from inevitable death¡­ ''DON''T DO IT!'' I had thought it was a voice warning me about the approaching demon. But I had been terribly mistaken. The enemy hadn''t been the Demon. All along¡­ it had been Lisa! * * * [A/N] I guess some of you must have seen iting. Well, there you have it. Keep reading to find out just what this woman''s deal is¡­ and the fate of our Mc. Chapter 10: Divergent

Chapter 10: Divergent

[7:31 AM; Sunday, 30th of April, 2023] "Maybe I should exin things, even though I doubt it will make a difference," Lisa''s distant tone weighed on my heart, causing an unbearable ache. My throat burned like I consumed acid , and my head throbbed. Merely looking at her face made me feel like I was losing my mind. "I¡­ lied to you, Mikey." She said nkly. ''Yeah, no kidding.'' I thought, given the situation I found myself in. But I still didn''t understand why. ''Why, Lisa? Why are you doing this?'' "I told you earlier that I can''t contact my family, didn''t I? I also mentioned how my reach is limited to this ce. By ''this ce'', I mean this hotel. I have friends who are stranded in various areas here¡­" Lisa''s words sounded genuinely worried, but her distant eyes told me she was concerned for her friends, not for me. "They need food and shelter, and this suite would be perfect for them. I... I didn''t discuss it with you because I knew how you''d react." What did she expect would happen? Why was she assuming things without talking to me first? I saved her, didn''t I? Didn''t she say I was a kind person? That I didn''t seem like the kind of person who would abandon a friend? "I have four friends here. You can probably guess what that means." ''Ah, I see¡­'' This was about my supplies. "At most, it can only feed about five. And even at that, the food would have to be rationed. I can''t abandon any of them¡­ which means¡­" A hard glint appeared in her eyes as she stared at me. It was clear that she had chosen her actual friends over a guy she''d met not too long ago. But, Lisa¡­ ''What the fuck do you think you''re doing?! I paid for this suite myself! I bought those supplies myself! This is my ce! How can you do this to someone who brought you into their ce? This isn''t fair! Even after I saved you! How¡­ why¡­? What did I do to deserve this?!'' My thoughts swirled with anger and disappointment, and tears threatened to spill from my eyes. How could someone be so thoughtless, especially when they should be grateful? "I know what you''re probably thinking. You must despise me for my choice. While I don''t me you for feeling animosity towards me, don''t you think it''s a bit hypocritical to feel angry at me for what I did?" Hypocritical? What was this bitch talking about? I watched as she looked at me with cold eyes, and I felt like my heart would explode with rage. How could she? How could¡ª?! "You did the same thing, didn''t you? To save yourself, you left everyone else to die. But, you see, I''m not just thinking about myself. I''m worried about others, my friends. You probably wouldn''t understand... you don''t have any friends, after all." ''Keuk!'' My heart felt like it was stabbed as I heard her words. H-how¡­? How could she say those words to me? I¡­ I''d had no other choice but to take the steps I did. So what if I didn''t have any friends? So what if I had no family? I had those I cared about too! They all became monsters, so what was I supposed to do? ''Do you think I wanted this to happen? How dare you try to pin this on me? In the first ce, who would have believed me if I told them that the world was going to end and monsters would spring out of nowhere?'' "I know you must be making excuses in your head. You must be thinking that no one would have believed you if you told them the truth. Well¡­ how can you be so sure?" Was she crazy? Who in the world would possibly¡ª "Me." Lisa suddenly pointed at herself. "I would have believed you." ''How the heck did she expect me to know?'' Anger surged through me as I stared at her cold gaze. "I understand your thought process, though," she continued, her voice calm. "I faced a simr dilemma when deciding what to do. I knew there would be a conflict of interest because the rations wouldn''t be enough for all of us. I tried to think of ways to save both you and my friends." ''W-what are you saying? Why are you¡­?'' "I could have told you of our plight and then killed you. Then, you would return to the past and tell us on time, so we could all prepare for the whole thing. But, wouldn''t that mean you died intentionally? In that case, you''d have just died for nothing." ''Why did I tell her my abilities? Why did I reveal my limitations?'' Like a fool, I had divulged everything to Lisa. "I also considered telling you, then eliminating you without your knowledge. I thought you might understand why I did it. But that, as well, carried too many risks. You might not see the reason behind it, or you could avoid me entirely when you returned to the past. There was also the possibility that your return to the past would create an alternate reality, leaving me stuck here. Do you grasp theplexity of it now? I actually put a lot of thought into this." ''H-how long?'' How long had she been plotting her betrayal? Was it when we had been talking to each other? When we had beenughing together? When we were crying beside each other? How long? ''ANSWER ME, YOU MONSTER!'' "Even now, I''m uncertain about the consequences of my actions," she admitted, her voice chilling. "But I believe this is the best course of action." ''The best for who? You, right? You¡­ you..'' "I know I''m being selfish by choosing my friends over you and taking your supplies." Lisa acknowledged. "However, you''re selfish too. In the end, we are both selfish." ''I¡­ I¡­ but I¡­ I saved you, didn''t I?'' Tears fell from my eyes as I watched her rise to her feet. At this point, my body was already limating to the crushing pain that nearly drove me insane. "Don''t worry, you won''t be restrained forever," she said. "I had to do it this way so you''d understand why. Eventually, you''ll be able to free yourself from the restraints. A day or two without food should weaken your muscles enough for that..." ''W-what? No¡­ you can''t be serious." "At this point, you have two choices. Either wait till you die of hunger, which would probably be in about a week or¡­" Lisa''s voice trailed off as her image blurred in my vision. I couldn''t make out her expression. I was consumed by so much rage. "I''ll drop a knife in here. Once you get out of your restraints, you can choose whether to kill yourself and end things permanently, or die by natural causes and regress." How could she be so heartless? Was there even a choice to be made here? Both options were equally horrifying. If I killed myself, I wouldn''t be able to activate , and certain death awaited me. However, if I did die by starvation, which was the worst way to go, I would only return to the past day¡ªwhich would cause me to suffer even more before repeating the same day and dying again. In the end, I would caught in a loop of suffering! ''S-so cruel¡­'' "You know, I was quite reluctant to do this," she admitted, "because what if your death triggers a time loop for everyone else? But I have a strong theory that your regression creates a different reality instead." Lisa¡­ she really thought things through, didn''t she? "I might be wrong, but I think you''d kill yourself before it gets to that point, though. As for why I think that¡­ you seem like that kind of guy, I guess." ''Ahhh¡­ Haaa¡­'' My thoughts were a mess. The bleakness of my situation weighed on me like a crushing weight, and I couldn''t help but wonder if I would ever find a way out of this nightmarish ordeal. The more I adapted, the more the new sensations caused me misery. I found myself slowly sinking into despondency. "Once again, I''m sorry, Mikey. I really am. It might not mean much, but¡­ I had fun. You are a pretty nice guy." And then, just like that, Lisa left the room with the door tightly shut behind her. She left me in this dark,pletely isted space. I waspletely broken by the time all she''d said finally sunk in. The weight of her words hit me like a pile of rocks. Once I realized that everything that had happened was really true, my thoughts finally sank into despair. ''Tell me¡­ someone please tell me¡­ that this is a dream.'' I never thought that I would be so desperate to wake up from reality itself. To wish that everything was simply a bad dream. * * * [A/N] How will Mikey get out of this situation? What choice will he make? And what about Lisa? What will be of her and her friends? Chapter 11: Friends [Pt 1]

Chapter 11: Friends [Pt 1]

[7:47 AM; Sunday, 30th of April, 2023] Lisa Scofield let out a deep sigh, the sound echoing in the quiet hallway as she closed the door behind her. Her conflicted expression revealed the inner turmoil she was wrestling with, a delicate frown tugging at the corners of her charming face. "It''s for the best. It''s what everyone decided," she murmured to herself, though doubt gnawed at the edges of her conviction. Deep down, Lisa knew she could never have made such a horrific decision on her own. She had been in constant telepathic contact with her friends throughout her time with Mikey. She had shared her thoughts with them, and they had unanimously agreed on the grave decision she now had to undertake. Lisa couldn''t help but wonder if it was truly the right course of action, but she also understood the grim odds of survival if she didn''t follow this path. ''Besides¡­ that ''Guiding Thought'' has never been wrong, has it?'' Ever since her awakening and the mysterious Status Window, Lisa had gained the eerie and unsettling ability to hear the thoughts of the people around her in the dimly lit hotel. She had, in turn, borne witness to the chilling, haunting final thoughts of those unfortunate souls who had tragically perished within these walls, their memories etching themselves into her consciousness. Furthermore, she had sensed the palpable fear that radiated from those few who had miraculously survived the inexplicable horrors that had unfolded. This newfound power was not a gift, but a curse, and it had instilled in her a deep, gnawing terror, one that relentlessly whispered that she, too, might ultimately sumb to the unforgiving chaos and death that gripped her surroundings. That was until she heard the soothing guidance of the ''Guiding Thought.'' Its identity remained a mystery, but its presenceforted her. It assured her that everything would be okay and provided clear instructions on what to do. It had taught her how to harness her Skill tomunicate with those nearby and use them as bait to distract the menacing Demons that lurked nearby. It was this guidance that had enabled her to escape their clutches and make it to the first floor, where she had met Mikey. When the Demon had pounded on the door, nearly grabbing the attention of others of its kind, Lisa had reached out to it for help. It had guided her to convince another survivor toe out from their suite, effectively diverting the Demon''s attention and allowing her to escape unscathed. Her survival thus far was owed entirely to the mysterious ''Guiding Thought.'' It was this unseen force that had given her the strength to make the difficult decisions and alsoid the groundwork for her current n. "I still don''t know who they are, but..." Lisa made up her mind to push aside thoughts of Mikey and her regrets, focusing solely on the task at hand. First things first¡­ she needed to use her actual Skill. "" In the blink of an eye, a mental connection wove through Lisa''s consciousness, linking her to all four of her friends. "Alright, guys. I''ve got him secured. I''ll use my ability to sense the approaching Demons and guide each of you safely to this room. Remember the n, stick to the details as closely as possible." The static in her mind transformed into distinct voices, and the sounds of relief from her friends resonated within her. ~For real? Sweet!~ cried out an unmistakably masculine voice,ced with an enthusiasm that cut through the tension. ~You did great, Lisa. Thank you so much~ a more subdued andposed voice echoed in her thoughts, carrying with it a sense of gratitude that warmed her heart. ~We can finally leave this ce. Thank Goodness¡­~ Yet another friend''s fleeting thought was heard. ~Thanks, Lisa. We''re counting on you.~ The final voice chimed in, their tone resolute. Lisa took a brief moment to absorb their responses, a smile of relief gracing her face before she let out a heavy sigh, the gravity of the task at hand sinking in. "Alright, then. Let''s get started." Her mission was simple, yetplex. The lives of her friends were hanging in the bnce, and she was their only hope¡ªtheir guide. ''I have to do this! No room for mistakes!'' Her resolve surged as shemitted herself to the task at hand, her determination unwavering. As heartless as she could be to strangers, her love and devotion to this small circle of friends knew no bounds. They were her anchor in this chaos, the reason she kept pushing forward. "Lorna. Lily. Kame... and Jake. Don''t you worry! I''ll protect you, no matter what!" In the end, amidst the madness surrounding them, the paramount goal was simple: the survival of herself and her cherished loved ones. Nothing else mattered. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Lisa Scofield - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 1/1 - Energy Level: 1/1 - Combat Ability: 1/1 - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 100 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: - Alignment: Chaotic Neutral [Additional Information] You possess a strong will to survive, and with your ability to get in and out of the head of those around you, you could be a force to be reckoned with. See to it that you do not be too conceited, though. [End Of Information] * * * [A/N] This chapter is a bit shorter than the rest. Just wanted to give you a little context to Lisa. I know we all have opinions about her, so feel free toment. Chapter 12: Friends [Pt 2]

Chapter 12: Friends [Pt 2]

[8:09 AM; Sunday, 30th of April, 2023] "Haa¡­ safe atst!" The first to copse on the ground like a bag of fallen groceries was also the only male in the group¡ªJake Wester. His blond hair sprawled chaotically across the clean, soft rug as he released a heavy sigh. Not long after, the remaining three girls joined him on the floor, their faces etched with both physical and mental exhaustion. They cast tired nces at Lisa, who diligently locked the door they had entered through. The first to copse on the ground like a bag of fallen groceries was also the only male in the group¡ªJake Wester. Once she confirmed it was safely locked, she made her way towards her exhausted friends. "d to see you all made it safe and sound. You must be tired." Lisa smiled brightly. It wasn''t a false front, or a facade like what she put on with others. When she was with these people, her true emotions surfaced, and even tears threatened to well up in her eyes. True relief surged from the depths of her heart. "Damn straight. Haaa¡­ fucking exhausted. Communicating with you for too long really strains the brain, you know?" Jake murmured, his breathing gradually steadying as he inhaled the sweet, fresh air. "Haha! Is that so? Well, sorry for the inconvenience." Lisaughed, and the others joined her as well. Jake''s rudeness might have annoyed some, given his entitled tone, but not these girls. The four of them were inseparable friends with an unshakeable bond. . Jake was usually like this, after all. And the four of them tolerated it. How could such an ill-mannered person get away with so much of his insensitivity andck of tact? Well¡­ "I''m fucking starving! You said there was stuff to eat, right, Lisa?" "Oh, yeah! Let me go get it for you real quick. You all must be hungry too, right? What do you want?" Lisa''s spirits lifted at his words. Though she felt even more drained than the rest, as her powers had taxed her mental strength beyond their imagination. Yet, Lisa disyed no hint of weakness. She couldn''t afford to! "At this rate, I''ll take anything." "M-me too¡­" "I''ll have anything you give me¡­" As expected, the three girls showed no pickiness. But what about Jake? "I want Ramen! C too! And there''s got to be cheese, right? How about some meat? I hope that guy wasn''t a cheapskate¡­" "We''re supposed to conserve our food, you know," Lisa sighed, her gaze fixed on Jake, feigning annoyance. "Yeah, yeah, I know. I was just messing around. Bring me whatever''s avable." He chuckled, brushing off his earlier request as a joke. Once more, all the girlsughed. Despite the banter, they all knew Lucy would do her best to meet Jake''s demands as urately as possible. Even if she couldn''t indulge him too extravagantly, she would try her best. No, it wasn''t just Lucy. It was all of them. Why? Why would they go to such lengths for Jake? Perhaps it had something to do with his ''Role'' and ''Authority,'' or maybe it was simply their natural inclination towards him. One thing was certain, though: all four girls had deep feelings for Jake. ***** [9:51 AM; Sunday, 30th of April, 2023] It didn''t take very long for the friends to settle into casual conversation. They gathered around a low coffee table, its wooden surface worn with age and etched with marks from previous upants. As they began to share their recent experiences, the dim room''s soft lighting created an intimate ambiance, casting warm,forting shadows on their faces. Each of the four recounted in detail how terrified they had been in the previous room where they had been trapped. The chilling darkness, the eerie sounds that echoed through the suffocating silence, it had all felt like a descent into madness. They shivered at the memories. Had it not been for Lisa, they would undoubtedly have met their end¡ªeither sumbing to starvation or falling prey to the horrifying monsters that prowled the creepy hallways. The relief they had felt when Lisa first contacted them was beyond description. Her voice had brought rity to their crazy situation, guiding them to act with purpose. It had taken some time, but the group was finally reunited. "You girls are the best!" Jake eximed with joy, savoring his third bowl of Ramen. The delicious aroma wafted through the room, mingling with the scent of freshly opened c. The liter-sized c sat nearby, and he chatted merrily with the girls, who were indulging in the supplies they had managed to secure. Laughter filled the room, echoing with relief and camaraderie. Yet, amidst this jovial atmosphere, they all seemed to overlook the presence of one other person in the suite with them. "Don''t worry, girls. I''ll protect you all!" Jake dered with enthusiasm. He twirled his blond hair and shed a charming smile, exuding an aura of irresistible charm that had the girls giggling. "Sureeeee!" "We believe you, Jake." "We''re counting on you." "Let''s hope that never happens." Though tinged with yful sarcasm, it was evident that the girls were cing their trust in his words. Despite their unique abilities, they still saw Jake as the strongest among them. He was special, and their expectations of him were unwavering. As for Jake himself, what was his perspective in this scenario? "Heck yeah! So this is how it feels to be the main character!" he thought, grinning inwardly and taking another slurp of Ramen from his bowl. Yes, Jake saw himself as the Protagonist. With a passion for gaming and anime, he had always fantasized about this kind of scenario¡ªa perilous time when the world''s systems was at a standstill, rendering those in positions of power obsolete. In such a world, terms like ''government'' or ''businessmen'' lost their significance, and the ''chosen one,'' armed with incredible abilities, would be hailed as the Hero. That role belonged to him! But this was only one facet of his ambition. What about the other side? "Hihihihihi! This is awesome! I already have four members. I can''t wait to expand my harem even further!" Jake''s thoughts resonated deep within his heart. That''s right! He was about to have a Harem in this Apocalypse. That was his grand n as the protagonist in this new world! [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Jake Wester - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 2/2 - Combat Ability: 2/2 - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 100 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): < Charisma> - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: - Alignment: Chaotic Neutral [Additional Information] You have been privileged with the greatest kind of power The ability to influence others and utilize their aid. Much can be said about its application. With great poweres great responsibility. [End Of Information] * * * [A/N] Thanks for reading, everyone. Much appreciation! Chapter 13: Despair

Chapter 13: Despair

{3 Dayster} [2:48 PM, Wednesday 3rd of May, 2023] It was agony. "H-haa¡­ a-aa¡­. haaa¡­aaa¡­" The pain was excruciating. "... p-please..." My vision was blurred, but I couldn''t focus on that. Not with the relentless hunger tearing at my stomach, and the parched torment of my dry, tongue. Pain. A relentless, unyielding pain that kept pushing me toward unconsciousness. I''d grown skinny enough to free myself from the tight restraints on the bed, but my bodycked the strength to do much else. In the suffocating darkness of the room, I felt the weight of the days pressing down on me. Three agonizing days had passed since myst meal. The gnawing hunger inside me had be an all-consuming torment. Each moment brought a new wave of hunger, and my body weakened, unable to sustain itself. As the days dragged on, my energy dwindled drastically. A terrible weakness washed over me, like a heavy shroud draped over my limbs. My muscles ached, and my once-steady hands trembled uncontrobly. The absence of food had taken a toll on my body and mind. My thoughts became foggy, and a persistent haze clouded my mind. Concentration slipped away, and my ability to focus vanished. I drifted in and out of delirium, where reality blended with vivid hallucinations. My body began to betray me in unimaginable ways. My once-smooth, supple skin grew pale and mmy. My cheeks hollowed, and my eyes, once bright and vibrant, dulled and sunk into their sockets. Bones protruded from beneath my skin, a stark reminder of the unyielding hunger consuming me. I had be a human scarecrow. With each passing day, my body fought for survival in desperate ways. My metabolism slowed to a crawl, preserving every ounce of energy. My heart rate dropped, and my blood pressure plunged, leaving me lightheaded and dizzy when I attempted to stand. Thirst was an unrelentingpanion; dehydration parched my mouth and cracked my lips. As day turned to night, sleep remained elusive. Restless nights filled with difort and pain haunted my weakened body. The hunger intensified, twisting my stomach into knots. Each hour seemed like an eternity, my body growing frailer with every passing moment. In the depths of my despair, memories of better times danced at the edge of my consciousness. The taste of warm, delicious meals. The refreshing coolness of water. The simple joys of life that I had taken for granted. But those memories were fading, like distant stars vanishing into the night. The present was a relentless onught of hunger, weakness, and pain. Then, in the midst of this dark abyss, something shifted. I could feel the feeble flicker of life within me fading, as my body reached its limits. Weakness consumed me entirely, and I slipped into unconsciousness, surrendering to the merciless grip of starvation. ****** [10:53 PM, Wednesday 3rd of May, 2023] "H-haaaa... haaaa¡­ please¡­" I''d already pounded on the door, my pleas for help echoing in the cold, damp room where they held me captive. The rage and resentment I''d harbored had slowly ebbed away, reced by a growing desperation. But unfortunately, no one answered. In the end, I realized it was a futile waste of energy. So I simply curled up in a corner, gasping for breath, my hope waning with everybored breath. But how could it end? Death would only mean reliving this nightmare one day earlier. Even the thought of ending my own life seemed unbearable. Both options were equally terrible. Yet, as my eyes fell upon the gleaming knife within arm''s reach, temptation began to whisper in my ears. Maybe death would be preferable to this torment. ~CREAK~ The door slowly swung open, and I wearily raised my head, yearning to see a savior emerge from the shadows. Someone. Anyone. Please. Help me. My thoughts and prayers boiled down to this simple plea. Unfortunately, the person who stepped into the dim light was none other than Jake. "Still wallowing in misery, huh?" he sneered. "I pity you, you know? Unfortunately, this is just how the world is going to be from now on. The weak get trampled, and the strong get it all¡­ even thedies. Get used to it." Just like the day before, Jake began his boastful tirade, his condescending grin cutting through the darkness. I struggled to focus on his face through blurred vision, but his malevolent delight was crystal clear. "Unlike you, I''ve got four girls in my Harem now. nning to add more, of course," he snickered. "You should''ve seen what Lisa and I were up to yesterday. It was... mind-blowing. Get it?" Why was he telling me all this? Why did he feel the need to torture me beyond the extreme pain I was currently experiencing? I couldn''t understand the cruelty of some people. "Lisa..." The mention of her name brought forth memories of the girl I once trusted. The anger I''d almost forgotten surged within me, but my feeble frame could no longer act upon it. I was powerless. Yesterday, when I''d tried to attack Jake, he had effortlessly overpowered me. Even now, with a knife tantalizingly close, Icked the strength to act. I could only watch and listen, hovering on the blurred boundary between consciousness and its absence. "I can''t wait to add even more girls to my collection once this Tutorial ends," Jake continued, seemingly unaware of my suffering. "They''re asleep now, so I can tell you this. I''m aiming for at least a thousand. Like King Solomon, right?" "P-please," I croaked, my voice barely audible. "Just a little... food." "Food?" Jake''s tone shifted, almost apologetic. "I''m sorry, but we''re almost out. We have to ration what''s left or it won''tst the week. It''s tough for all of us, you know." My food, my water, my house, my resources ¨C he spoke of them all as if they belonged to him. I felt like stabbing him so desperately, but I could hardly move. Even if I mustered enough strength, I wouldn''t be able to take action fast enough to guarantee sess. In the end, I couldn''t do anything. The room closed in around me, a prison without walls, a torment without end, and the cruelughter of my captor echoed in my ears, mocking my desperation. "Why not just end it all yourself and put an end to the suffering? Lisa spilled the beans about your abilities. Wouldn''t it be better to take that route?" Jake''s words were like a venomous sting, pushing me closer to the abyss of despair. This bastard was basically telling me to die. I wasn''t surprised that Lisa had betrayed my trust so easily, but hearing it from Jake''s lips intensified the unbearable ache in my heart. "You''ve got that knife, don''t you?" Jake''s voice echoed in my ears, taunting me. "Just do it." My mind was clouding over again, and through my blurred vision, I saw Jake making his exit, callously leaving me to my misery. "Thanks for the food, Mikey," he said casually as he walked away. "Though, with your abilities, you could have done so much more. But don''t worry; I''ll make sure to remember you!" He left, once again consigning me to the wretched solitude of that room "F-fuck¡­" Despite the pain, rage, fury, hatred, and justified frustration swirling inside me, I couldn''t help but entertain the idea he nted in my mind. "Maybe I should just end it..." How I wished I could have my revenge. To kill those bastards. To personally ughter the traitor, Lisa. To be the one to slit that arrogant prick in the throat. How pleasant those things would have been. ''But¡­ I can''t take it anymore¡­'' There was no future waiting for me. There was no reason left to cling to this cruel existence. In the end, I could only tread this path of despair. And so, I gripped the knife, using both trembling hands to position it dangerously close to my throat. I''d never attempted anything like this before, and my body shook with fear. Surprisingly, though, the fearsted only a fleeting moment. Almost as soon as the cold de touched my skin, an eerie calm enveloped my entire being, and my precision sharpened to a razor''s edge. It felt almost... natural. "Haa... what a wretched life," I whispered, slicing through my carotid arteries in one swift motion. "This is the end." [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} I felt only a tinge of pain before my consciousness slowly faded away. [You Have Died] {You have intentionally taken your life, therefore Exclusive Skill: , will not be activated} {Exclusive Skill: has been initiated} [Nightmare will nowmence] * * * [A/N] Alright, this was one hell of a crazy chapter. Things are about to get a lot more interesting in theter chapters. Thanks for reading this far. I hope you''re enjoying the story, despite its slow pacing. Cheers! Chapter 14: Nightmare [Pt 1]

Chapter 14: Nightmare [Pt 1]

Darkness. Everything was a void of darkness. And then... [You Have Died] {You have intentionally taken your life,; Exclusive Skill: , will not be activated} {Exclusive Skill: has been initiated} [Nightmare will nowmence] ... New life sprang forth. * * * I rose from my ce in the dimly lit room, my mind a chaotic maze, and my thoughts nonexistent. It felt as though I were wading through a murky fog, guided solely by primal instincts. Each breath I took seemed forced, unnatural, as if the very air conspired against me. The room around me appeared to both close in and recede, creating a surreal sensation, like stepping into a dream. In this dream, I was still stuck in the room¡ªstill trapped in the space where I was abandoned. Despite being trapped in this room, none of it seemed to matter; it was as if the constraints of reality had loosened their grip. With determination, I approached the locked door. My hand reached for the knob, knowing it wouldn''t open, but to my surprise, it turned, and the door creaked open, freeing me from the torment of that room. But in this dreamlike state, it was hardly surprising. I moved past the open door, navigating the ever-shifting surroundings, my sole focus on a single, beckoning door. In a silence filled with anticipation, I grasped the knob and stepped inside, and there, my goal materialised before me. "Haa..." Misty breaths escaped my lips as my eyes witnessed all five friends sleeping together in the same room. My thoughts were a mess, but within the chaos, I could hear certain words echo from the very depths of my soul, filled with anger and loathing. ''... KILL YOU ALL!'' ''... SLEEPING SO PEACEFULLY...'' ''... MONSTERS!'' ''... I HATE YOU!'' With each step forward, I observed how peacefully they slept. Empty snack wrappers littered the floor, and soda bottles stood as silent witnesses to their pre-slumber feast. It seemed they had actually stuffed their faces before crashing for the night. "Haa..." HOW DARE THEY? ''I WAS STARVING, YOU KNOW? STARVING ENDLESSLY...'' While I endured days of unending darkness and ravenous hunger, they were having the time of their lives, gorging themselves on my food. They had fun, didn''t they? At that moment, hunger and fear ceased to haunt me. This was merely a dream, after all. I drew closer to the group, my eyes locked on the bed. While there were five in the room, they all slept in scattered locations. Oney covered beneath a duvet, two rested on spare mattresses, leaving the other two on the bed¡ªJake and LISA. In the darkness, my eyes reddened as I stared at the pair. "Haaa..." These bastards. They were monsters beyond even the Demons that prowled the night. They deserved to die! ''Let''s start with you... BITCH!'' I moved my hands, drawing them closer to her sulent neck. It seemed so pure and delicate. What would happen if they became sullied with my dark, dirty, grimy hands? ''Hehe... hehehe....heheheheheehehee...'' cing my hands gently on her throat, I began to squeeze. I applied pressure, concentrating all the anger and pain I felt. ''Die.'' Tighter, pressing upon her skin. ''DIE!'' Digging deeper and crushing the delicate swanlike neck. ''DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE! DIE!'' I could already hear her choking. Her once-pale Caucasian skin now bore crimson splotches, and her face, contorted in red, filled me with an even greater sense of satisfaction. ''THIS IS WHAT YOU DESERVE!'' That''s right. ''YOU DESERVE TO DIE!'' Even after I had saved her life, offered her my home, shared my meals generously, confided my deepest secrets, and had even considered her a friend. ''YOU LIED TO ME!'' She betrayed me. She made me suffer for so long. ''YOU SELFISH BITCH!'' After a relentless struggle and incessant choking, Lisa finally sumbed to unconsciousness, teetering dangerously on the brink of death. If I kept this up for barely a few seconds more, she would be dead. But then... then... ''Y-you... you selfish bitch...'' In that moment, a rush of memories flooded my mind ¨C her infectious smile, the way sheughed, the tears we''d shed, and the meaningful conversations we''d shared. ''You... you...'' I felt my grip loosen, and I staggered a few steps backward. More memories came rushing - her cold, unfeeling eyes and her heartless actions. Thest words she''d spoken to me echoed in my heart. ''... I can''t...'' My eyes, once filled with murderous rage, now reflected something different. The blurred vision before me held one undeniable truth. "H... h..." Bitter tears streamed down my cheeks as an overwhelming sadness enveloped me. ''Why would you do that to me? I... I trusted you...'' Why would anyone inflict such cruelty on another human being? I didn''t deserve this. All I wanted was to survive. What was so wrong about that? She deserved to feel the pain I felt. She was the one who was clearly in the wrong. She deserved to die. And so did Jake and all her friends who had partaken in this horrendous act. They all deserved agonizing and brutal ends. ''B-but I can''t do it...'' * * * [A/N] Now I know what you''re all thinking, but please be patient and just read along. Remember what I said in the Synopsis. It''s a progression. Let''s just keep reading, please Chapter 15: Nightmare [Pt 2]

Chapter 15: Nightmare [Pt 2]

"I can''t do it," I muttered, my body reluctantly sumbing to hesitation. In the end, the act of taking another person''s life was something I simply couldn''t bring myself to do. Despite the seething rage, the consuming fury, and the haunting pain and regrets that had festered within me, when the moment of truth arrived¡ªeven in the realm of my dreams¡ªI still couldn''t do it. ''I... I don''t want to kill anyone.'' With shame hanging heavy over me, I cast a final, longing gaze at Jake and Lisa, along with their friends, and clenched my fists so tight that my knuckles turned white. I could feel my heart racing, each beat an echo of my pain. ''I don''t want to be a monster.'' And with that, I turned my back and walked away, not bothering to shut their room''s door behind me. My vision was blurred, and my steps were lifeless as I made my way to the entrance of my suite. The state of the door, whether locked or not, was of no concern to me. I just needed an escape. So, I opened it, and as expected in the mysterious world of dreams, the door responded ordingly. In a dream, anything was possible. No more backward nces, no more thoughts about where I might end up; I just wanted out. I exited the suite not caring about the fact that I left the door open and continued my aimless journey. I walked down the empty hallway, my focus fixed solely on the path ahead. However, after a few steps, it became apparent that I was no longer alone. Demons. One, two, three, four, five. Five terrifying demons approached, their monstrous forms growling and ring. I watched them nonchantly, not pausing my steps even for a moment. For some reason, they didn''t feel scary to me. They didn''t even feel real. After all, this was just a dream. I walked past the Demons, and they walked past me. None of us cared much for the other, so we ignored one another as I made my way down the stairs to reach the ground floor so I could exit the ce. I didn''t care about staying in this ce any longer. There was only one thing I desired. I just wanted out. Exiting the hotel, I strolled down the street, infested with demons and other strange creatures. Yet, even when we crossed paths, we ignored each other, and I continued on my way, my footsteps echoing in the eerie silence. I didn''t know how or why, but I found myself standing before the drugstore I used to frequent when the world was still sane. The door was open, but the store was empty. I stepped inside, closed the door, and lowered the blinds. Metal shutters separated me from the outside world, leaving me alone with nothing but the drugs and the surrounding structures. Then, something in the corner of my eye caught my attention¡ªa vending machine. Its soft humming provided a strangefort in this surreal world, a constant reminder that even in the most bizarre of circumstances, some things remained familiar. "Ah..." I exhaled softly, a memory surfacing with rity. I recalled it vividly now¡ªthe presence of a vending machine here. It held snacks and drinks, an odd assortment for a drugstore. Mostly fast food, which struck me as odd for a ce that represented health and wellbeing. Although, the owner had insisted they were healthy snacks, emphasizing the absence of junk food and fatty items. Instead of carbonated drinks, it was stocked with natural fruit juice. A Vending Machine full of these snacks in this drugstore meant there were even more of the goods in the store out back. However, none of those thoughts were relevant to me at this point. All that mattered was that I had escaped that room. I had left the confines of that hotel. Hunger, fear, and despair were no longer mypanions. Right now... I was safe. "Food," I murmured, approaching the vending machine and opening it up to have my fill. The familiar,forting sight of the snacks greeted me. "Water," I sought out the sparkling water and juices that beckoned from within the machine, drinking until my thirst was quenched. "More food," I continued, indulging my appetite. "More water," I soothed my parched throat. On and on, I followed this monotonous ritual, each bite and sip bringing a strange but undeniable sense of relief and happiness. I couldn''t exin it, but it didn''t matter anyway. In the end, all of this was just a dream. So, I closed my eyes in this surreal ecstasy, my belly full, and a profound sense of contentment coursing through me. This euphoria was only a fleeting illusion, but in this moment, it felt as real as anything could be. {Penalty fee has been collected due to the use of Exclusive Skill: } [You will wake up soon] * * * [A/N] This chapter is shorter than usual, but I promise that won''t be frequent in this book. Also, please be patient still. The payoff is good, I promise. Chapter 16: Positive Development

Chapter 16: Positive Development

[7:30 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] "U-urgh..." With a groggy murmur, I woke up, my body heavy with exhaustion. Drool dribbled from the corner of my mouth as I stood up, gradually taking in my surroundings. It was a ce that felt both strangely familiar and unfamiliar at the same time, which created a slightly disorienting effect. "H-huh...? Where am I?" I mumbled, my voice quivering with surprise as I surveyed this new, yet oddly recognizable setting. To my surprise, I realized I was inside a drugstore ¨C but not just any drugstore, but the same one I knew all too well, the very ce where a terrifying Demon had first appeared and ended my life. Yet, there was no System Warning, no sign of any immediate threat. My mind, surprisingly calm, critically analyzed the situation instead of sumbing to fear, thanks to one of my Titles'' effects. "The pharmacy looks quite secure. The blinds are drawn, and that sturdy metal barrier seems imprable so long as no one is aware of my presence," I observed, reassuring myself of my safety. Everything checked out so far, but there was one small, crucial detail gnawing at me. ''How did I even get here?'' Myst memory was of a dark room, consumed by hunger and despair. Or was there something else? Yes, there was. Vivid images began to appear in my mind. Hadn''t I... taken my own life? I should have been dead, but I was inexplicably alive, alone in this drugstore with empty food packets and discarded bottles of water and juice. "Could it be that dream?" I slowly began to recall the strange dream that had visited me after my death. It had felt oddly lucid as if I were myself but detached from my actual body. It was a sensation that could not be easily described, sort of like an out-of-body experience. "Wasn''t it a mere dream?" But, if it were just a dream, how had I escaped that nightmarish ce and ended up here? Also, judging from how everything felt, it didn''t seem like I was dreaming any longer. ''I need to confirm this for myself.'' Although I felt a slight ache all over my body, I still summoned the willpower to rise to my feet. As I walked toward the beauty section of the pharmacy, I encountered shattered mirrors ¨C evidence of the fact that the pharmacist had already transformed into a Demon, who had likely left to hunt for prey. "Hm? It doesn''t seem like I''m in a dream," I muttered, testing my newfound understanding of the Skill. I knew that it was the only exception to the mirror trick. Based on past events, my experiences should have simply dissolved into a dream for my past self. ''But it couldn''t have been a dream. I killed myself. Besides, the way this is all ying out is in contrast to how operates.'' That was the most baffling part. "Unless..." My eyes widened as I recalled a certain System Notification that had appeared the moment I died. "What in the world is ?" There was only one way to find out. "Status Window," I called out. In response to mymand, the corresponding screen materialized before me, revealing its contents. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 - Combat Ability: 2/2 - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 100 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can experience the events of the world through the ''other ne''. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. [End Of Information] "Ah, I see. So I unlocked a new Skill." I whispered asprehension began to dawn on me. As I thought more about what happened after I died, the details started to be clearer in my mind. "borate On Skills." [Skills] (Exclusive) : Allows the user to experience future events in the form of a dream. These future events are basically the user''s experience. Trauma could be experienced as a result of this Skill. {Note: User may not take his own life or intentionally try to use this Skill. It will not activate.} : Allows the user to interact with the present/immediate future. Actions taken synchronise with reality, solidifying their effects. {Note: Using this reduces Life Force, so frequent utilisation of this Skill is not advised} (Non-Exclusive) "So that''s what happened," I sighed, my hands trembling as they clutched my face. For some inexplicable reason, my shock and disbelief had disappeared. Had I grown used to these emotions, or was it merely something I was already ustomed to? It seemed that the Skill was one with untapped potential. If used correctly, it could actually be as useful as . Unfortunately, the drawback was intense. "My Life Force, huh? It has reduced already." I murmured sadly. I had already memorized the contents of my Status Window thest time I checked it. There was no way I wouldn''t have noticed the subtle changes that had urred. "Life Force has dwindled from 3 to 2. That''s quite severe," I noted, understanding the gravity of this debuff. It was permanent. ''I''ll have to increase it myself. Looks like this Skill is too dangerous to rely on.'' I could only imagine how dangerous the situation would be if my Life Force got cut down even further. "Something tells me that this is one of those skills that takes more from you with each use." Just because it took only one Life Force from me on my first try didn''t mean it wouldn''t take moreter on. The fact that the System never specified a definite value of deduction made me even more concerned. This Skill was clearly dangerous. "For now, I''ll have to keep this Skill in the vault. Nothing good wille out of being reckless with my Stats." Speaking of my Status Information, it seemed it wasn''t just my Life Force that changed. Other than the new Skill I obtained, there was one final noticeable difference. ''My Alignment. It changed.'' Previously Neutral Good, it had transformed into simply Neutral. "I''m not surprised. After what those people did to me, there''s no way I can be the same person I was before." * * * [A/N] Thanks for reading. Please voice your thoughts in thements. It helps a great deal. Chapter 17: Fortune × Misfortune

Chapter 17: Fortune ¡Á Misfortune

Back then, I was far too naive. The notion that I''d lost everything and nearly met my end, all because of a single act of kindness haunted me. "Never again!" I resolved firmly. "I won''t trust anyone in this messed-up world. To survive, you had to look out for yourself. If I ever encountered another survivor, I had to keep in mind that there was definitely some conflict of interest." The only person I could trust was myself. "As long as the possibility of betrayal exists, I won''t go out of my way for anyone!" Survival was my top priority. Thanks to , I''d been granted a second chance, and I was determined not to waste it. ''The drugstore stocked a variety of supplements and enough food to keep me going for a week. There should be supplies in the back too.'' I was aware of this because the pharmacist, who also happened to reside within the store, had shared this information with me. ''There''s no way he didn''t stock the essentials I need.'' I believed that, with careful nning, surviving the remainder of the allotted time for the Tutorial wouldn''t be too difficult. As I settled on the ground, I sighed with both relief and dissatisfaction. The cause for thetter was a nagging thought that kept eating me up from within. ''Why didn''t I just end it back then? I could have killed them. Yet...'' It seemed I still couldn''t take a life, even when I thought I was dreaming. I didn''t know what to make of this weakness of mine. Did I do the right thing by letting those monsters escape unscathed? What if I encountered them again after the Tutorial? ''How should I handle it if we meet again?'' And what about future human adversaries? Would I show them mercy too? These thoughts swirled in my head like a storm, and I felt an unsettling sensation churn in my stomach. ''Why am I so weak? What should I do now to¡ª'' ~DING!~ A ping echoed within my head, and I noticed the appearance of a System Window. ''Huh?'' [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Sufficient time has psed since the death of five Participants. Since User was thest toe in contact with them, you have been allotted their Currency} "What? This is... unexpected." My eyes widened as I read and reread the content of the Panel in front of me. "Five Participants? Don''t tell me..." My thoughts turned to the five friends who betrayed me at the hotel. ''Are they dead? It can''t be. How?'' Despite how desperately I wanted to seek revenge, I was certain I hadn''t killed any of them while using . In addition, they didn''t strike me as the type to leave the hotel before the Tutorial''s allotted time had been exhausted. ''Besides, it hasn''t been that long since I left there. It''s only a couple of minutes before Eight. How did they die?'' Suddenly, memories of my time in became clearer, and I recalled a specific detail that must have led to the current situation. ''The door! I didn''t close the door.'' Those nasty demons that were prowling the hallway must have gained ess to the suite and found the group. "Ahh..." A smile formed on my face as I considered what might have happened. "Well, I totally didn''t do that intentionally" It was strange how I couldn''t kill them myself, but now that I knew they were most likely killed in a gruesome way by hungry demons, I felt immensely thrilled. Was I a hypocrite? Was I secretly a terrible person? Was I merely confused? I had no idea. However... "It feels good!" My grin grew wider, and I was sure my eyes narrowed as I formed a pleased expression, my brows curling upward. "It feels so good!" Slowly,ughter welled up within me, the echoes of my satisfied chuckles and ecstaticughter filling the entire drugstore. "You bastards! It serves you right! It serves you all right!" They deserved it. This was the universe''s punishment for what they did to me. This was karma! In the end, I managed to survive, and they all perished. I had every reason tough at their misfortune¡ªtheir grisly fates. Andugh I did. "Hahahahaha... hahahaha... HAHAHAHAHA!!!" * * * {A Couple Of Hours Earlier} [12:00 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] ~CREAK~ "Hmm...?" Lisa''s words were slurred as she felt something cold and firm grab her hand. She slowly opened her eyes, greeted only by a blurry view of the darkened room. She had turned the lights off the night before, so she and her friends could sleepfortably. Suddenly, a cold, liquid-like substance fell on her face, smelling strange. Lisa had a terrible suspicion about what it could be, but her thoughts were still disoriented and groggy since she had only just woke up . ''Jake... are you really doing that on me right now?'' She sighed, as her mind drifted towards dirty thoughts. The grip on her hand tightened like a vice, growing stronger and coiling around her delicate skin, almost crushing her. "Jake... is that you? Stop it already... ow!" A sharp, bone-rattling pain finally jolted her wide awake. But what she saw wasn''t Jake. "Grrrr..." It wasn''t any of her friends either. "A-ah...?!" In the darkness, the creature''s glowing red eyes fixated on her, its drool dipping onto her exposed skin as it bared its teeth. "H-h-how...?" Low growls from the demon interrupted her thoughts, and the echoes of others of its kind filled the room, rendering her mind nk. She felt as though the room was closing in on itself and her chest constricted painfully. She glimpsed them through her peripheral vision, a multitude of demons lurking in the room. Their primal delight was evident as they watched her and her friends, their eyes gleaming with malevolent hunger. "W-wait a minute..." The monster''s mouth drew nearer, closing in on her paralyzed skin. She couldn''t break free from its grip, fear sapping every ounce of strength she could muster. In the end, she realized with terror that they were trapped. Desperation wed at her as she screamed, "J-Jake! Jake!! Jake!!! Wake up! Wake u¡ª!" ~SQUELCH!~ * * * [A/N] Let the official nightmare begin. Chapter 18: The Fate Of Friends

Chapter 18: The Fate Of Friends

[12:03 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] ~SQUELCH~ The terrifying Demon''s unupied hand snatched at Lisa''s mouth, swiftly tearing out her tongue with its sharp ws. "Ahhhh!!!" Lisa''s scream burst out, her eyes widening in horror as the Demon devoured her tongue with a wicked grin on its face. It was a nightmarish encounter she had never expected. [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die.} ''N-no! Not like this. I can''t die like this...'' Lisa thought, panicking as she watched the monster lick its lips. ''Somebody... anybody... S-save me! Please! Save m-m-mee... p-plea¡ª!" ~CRUNCH!~ The creature struck again, decapitating her and separating her head from her trembling body. In that moment, Lisa''s senses went haywire, but it was fleeting. Soon after, her body gave up the ghost, spilling blood from her severed neck in a red fountain. The crimson pool spread, staining the cold floor beneath her. ''Ahh...'' Perhaps it was due to her special but Lisa''s consciousness seemed to linger despite the fact that she had died. It was as if time had slowed down, allowing her to reflect on the choices that had led her to this horrific fate. The image of a young man shed in her mind, his face filled with innocence and trust. ''M-Mikey...'' She couldn''t perceive anything or anyone. Not even the ''Guiding Thought'' that had always been there for her. All that surrounded her was endless darkness, yet the only person who filled her thoughts was the innocent man she had unwittingly condemned to death. ''S-sorry...'' Her thoughts echoed in the void as her mind faded into nothingness. ''I''m so sorry...'' At that moment, Lisa officially died. ****** "Urgh... you''re too noisy..." Jake was an incredibly deep sleeper. Waking him up required persistent nudges, and if those weren''t given, he could easily snooze until the afternoon without a hint of awareness. Needless to say, waking up at midnight, even with bloodcurdling screams piercing the air, was too much to ask of him. Even as multiple Demons feasted on Lisa''s remains in the same bed where he slumbered, he merely stirred and mumbled incoherently. Despite the screams of his otherpanions, the girls in his Harem, piercing the air, he remained nearly deaf to it all. That is, until... "H-huh...? What''s happening?" He mumbled, rubbing his groin while groaning. An odd sensation in hisher regions made him ask, "Who''s touching me there?" His sensitivity in that area ensured he couldn''t miss it. "Hmmm?" Slowly opening his eyes, he gazed around with curiosity, his words slurred. However, at that very moment, it was toote for him. ~CRUNCH~ In an instant, something was severed from his body. It had been given many names by many people. Some called it a ''Holy de,'' some dismissed it as a mere ''Stick,'' and a couple even referred to it as a ''Machine Gun.'' There were countless more iconic names, but Jake couldn''t recall any of them in his present state. The shocking sensation and horrifying sight of it being torn away from him threw him into a loud, agonized frenzy. "MYYYYYY DIIIIIIIICCCCCCKKKKKK!!!" Tears of pain streamed from his eyes, and his body convulsed with inexplicable agony. "Haaa.... Arrhhhhhh....Kurghhhhhh!!!" Drool pooled in his mouth, and mucus flowed from his nose. However, it wasn''t until his body somewhat adjusted to the pain that he could fully grasp the situation. "A-ahh... ahhh...?!" he stammered. The piercing gazes of the Demons all around the room fixated on him. "A...ahhh....?" To his lefty a gruesome sight, what remained of Lisa. Beside him was a piece of her eyeball, and a pool of blood that had already soaked him irreparably. "A-ahh... g-girls...?" His whisper sounded more like a pitiful croak as he observed the Demons closing in on him. "Girls... help me!" At that moment, he couldn''t have known, but the girls he hoped would rescue him were already facing a terrible fate, being devoured by the Demons Their screams had fallen on deaf ears while he slept peacefully, and even the ruckus created by their didn''t even wake him up from his deep sleep. "G-GIRLS!!!" His desperate cry echoed across the room,ced with a sense of entitlement. Why weren''t theying? They should have all gathered by now to save him! After all, he was the Hero! The protagonist! The Harem master! The one destined to conquer this Tutorial with the highest score and the least danger. He was the chosen one, the leader meant to guide this world through its impending dark times. "GIRLS SAVE ME! WHERE THE FUCK ARE YOU ALL?!!!" He shouted, his frustration mounting. But perhaps he had forgotten what he had promised them. The faint voice of thest surviving girl in the room whispered it, just loud enough for Jake to hear. ".... You said... you would... protect... us..." Despair seemed to engulf the room, its echo hollow and haunting, before the girl''s voice was silenced as the Demons continued their gruesome feast. "Haa... haa....?!" This wasn''t right. It didn''t feel right to Jake. "Why me? Why not someone else? I''m the Hero! I''m the protagonist! I''m the¡ª!!!" ~SQUELCH!~ ~CRUNCH~ ~SLURP!~ [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} ''I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die! I don''t want to die!'' His hollow thoughts echoed, as he cried in desperation. "ARRRRGHHHHHHHHHHH¡ª" Jake''s irritating shriek was abruptly stifled as a Demon twisted his neck, ending his pathetic existence. In the end, he proved powerless without the girls. The truth was in and simple: Jake wasn''t special. Devoid of capablepanions, he had no worth. It was unfortunate that this simple truth had eluded the fool during his lifetime. Even in death, he remained unable to ept reality. ''W-why... m-me...?'' And so, Jake too met his end in a wretched, agonizing manner. All five friends met their demise in that room, a fate they had earned more than most who suffered simrly all over the world due to the Tutorial. s, the Demons had a wonderful feast that early morning. It wasn''t every day they stumbled upon free food. ~CRUNCH!~ * * * [A/N] What do you all think? A fitting end? Not satisfactory? Over the top? Let me hear your thoughts in thements. Chapter 19: The Shop

Chapter 19: The Shop

[System Notification] {Since 500 Currency has been reached, will now be made avable to the User} [Total Currency in User''s possession: 600 C] "I see," I nodded. The System Window appeared before me shortly after learning of my newfound wealth. The fact that I could unlock something worth 500 Currency without lifting a finger was incredible. ''It feels good!'' I grinned happily. Without wasting any time, I called out "Shop" and another System Window instantly appeared. ''There are a lot of things I need at the moment, and I also need to n for the future in this world.'' I mused, my mind racing with ideas. In this new reality, Currency was needed for any kind of transaction. It was everything. Although I didn''t fully grasp how it worked, my intuition told me that Currency was the most valuable asset in this world, both marily and in terms of value. "The name says it all," I murmured, a smile forming as I gazed at the System Shop before me. The possibilities were limitless with Currency. [SYSTEM SHOP] {Wee to the Shop, where we Sell you anything you need, or want. As long as you possess enough ''Currency'', you can get anything here.} < Avable Bnce: 600 C > ~Skill Section~ ~Item Section~ ~Information Section~ ~Lucky Draw ( 1 C )~ ~Custom Request ( 1,000 C )~ [Let''s Do Business] "Ahh..." I sighed, taking in the interface. Oddly, it felt somewhat familiar. Each section''s purpose became clear to me instantly, but my attention was soon drawn towards one specific part. ''Custom Request, huh?'' I smirked. "A bit too expensive for my current situation," I mused. I couldn''t even entertain the thought of such an option without the required amount. It was pointless wasting time on something I couldn''t currently obtain. Yet, the fact that it drew my interest suggested it was incredibly important and useful. ''I''ll need to spend wisely while saving up for it,'' I resolved. Being frugal was essential, especially considering how costly things were bound to get going forward. ''I''ll probably rely on it more after the Tutorial. Having a head start doesn''t mean I should squander my resources,'' I reminded myself. My gaze wandered to the Lucky Draw section next. "Although it costs only 1 Currency, the oue is unpredictable. I might score a valuable item or end up with a worthless trinket," I figured. Despite the uncertainty, my curiosity got the better of me. For some reason, I was so drawn towards it. In fact, because of my hesitance, I already knew what I needed from the System Shop. It was something I needed desperately at this point since I could barely understand what was going on. I needed information, and I needed it immediately. So, I tapped on the Information Section, leading me to a new screen. However, there was only one item avable for purchase. "Basic Survival Information, huh? That''s it?" I spected that the choice avable was due to my current level. "It costs 100 Currency? Seriously? That''s exorbitant!" I couldn''t help but exim. It seemed outrageous considering everyone started with just 100 C. Nevertheless, the allure of gaining a crucial edge in this new world was too tempting to resist. I made up my mind. It was the key to unlocking the mysteries behind this strange situation I found myself in, and I was determined to uncover them, no matter the cost. ~DING!~ {100 Currency has been used for this transaction. } [Thanks for your patronage] In the end, I purchased it. "The fact that it''s expensive implies it holds value. If I use it wisely, I should gain valuable information," I reasoned. Thinking about it rationally, most people wouldn''t gamble their entire Currency stash on uncertain information. However, the Shop''s 500 Currency entry requirement indicated that the System intended this information to be easily essible to only those with a certain level of resources. ''Fair enough. You had better not disappoint me!'' I muttered. There was nothing more I wanted in this new world than to survive. "Show me your contents!" [Survival Information (Basic)] Wee, dear This world operates on Systems and Stats. Here''s what you need to know: To start with, there exists Skills, Titles, and Status Information. Skills: Special abilities you can use. They can either be active or passive. Titles: Earned by achieving certain milestones or fulfilling certain conditions. They grant unique effects in specific situations. Status Information: This section disys a User''s vital details, including the User''s Name, Race, Level, Life Force, Energy Level, Combat Ability, Stat Points, Role, Authority, Titles, Skills (Exclusive/Non-Exclusive), Items Equipped, Alignment, and ''Additional Information.'' Unlike typical RPG settings or Game-Like System narratives, there are no standard ''sses'' or ''Jobs.'' Everyone has a distinct ''Role,'' which grants them an ''Authority'' as their exclusive attribute. Each individual has Exclusive Skills, unique to them, and Non-Exclusive Skills, special abilities earned naturally or bought from . Levels are earned by defeating Demons orpleting Quests. As you level up, more Exclusive Skills unlock (though additional requirements might apply). Leveling up also grants Stat Points, which enhances the abilities of the User. Life Force, Energy Level, and Combat Ability measure one''s physical status and conditions. They can be increased through Stat Points, or by physical exertion and training. They can also be temporarily increased by certain Skills. Stat Points are acquired through Leveling Up, with each level granting three points (typically allocated to Life Force, Energy Level, and Combat Ability). However, the mode of usage is up to the discretion of the individual. Currency as can be deduced from the name, is the primary means of transaction recognized in this world. It is used to make purchases in the System Shop or conduct trades between two parties. You can earn it as Quest Rewards or through transactions and asionally find it in Treasure Chests. The System Shop hosts things that individuals can purchase to boost strength. Items, Skills, and even Information can be bought. It also has a Lucky Draw (though the odds of getting something truly valuable are one in a million, literally.) You can request unique items not found in the System Store through ''Custom Request.'' Be prepared, for the price is steep, but it allows you to obtain exclusive merchandise. Keep in mind that you''ll still need to cover the item''s cost. If payment isn''t made within a week, the item goes up for auction in the System Shop. [End Of Information] "Wow, this is a lot!" I eximed, absorbing the wealth of information on the screen. Some of it was new, while others confirmed what I already knew. Yet, a prevailing theme in the information hit me hard. "It''s just as I feared..." I sighed, my gaze locked on the disy. "Hiding out in the hotel was a mistake," I realized. ording to the information, I needed to hunt Demons to be stronger and gain rewards. If I didn''t act now, while things were rtively manageable, my chances of survival would plummet once the Tutorials ended. "Damn. That''s the way it is," I muttered, anxiety welling up as I stared at the locked pharmacy door. "To survive in this world, I have to be more proactive." The weight of this newfound responsibility settled on my shoulders, and I couldn''t deny the urgency of the situation any longer. The world outside was filled with unknown dangers and potential rewards, and I needed to step out of myfort zone and face them head-on. * * * [A/N] Sorry, for the info dump in this chapter. I felt it was necessary to properly exin some things. Please give yourments on this chapter, and on the story generally. Send your Power Stones and support me in any way you can as well Thanks, everyone! Chapter 20: The Lucky Draw

Chapter 20: The Lucky Draw

In a way, I felt grateful to Lisa and her friends. They had taught me essential lessons about how this world worked, which would shape how I dealt with people in the future. In a sense, they had pushed me out of the cozy hotel, firmly nudging me toward the reality of this new existence. "To survive here, I need to take action," I realized, my determination rising with each passing moment. But there was a problem. I was a Level 1 newbie with zerobat experience. My Title allowed me to stay calm and level-headed, except when under extreme stress, so I could probably manage if I encountered a Demon and decided to stayposed. The real challenge was defeating one and leveling up, a prospect that seemed daunting at the moment. ''My skills aren''t suited forbat. I need to get stronger quickly,'' I muttered to myself, a bead of sweat forming on my brow as I contemted the unknown dangers ahead. The best idea I had was to get an Item from the . However, I was trying to save money, so I had to find a cost-effective way to get Items that would increase my chances of survival. ''I bet most of these ''useful'' Items will end up as junk after the Tutorial. I can''t waste my Currency on things like that,'' I reasoned. My goal was to find Items that wouldn''t drain my wallet and would stillst until the Tutorial ended, a strategy that would require careful consideration. "Haaa... in the end, I arrived here," I said, a wry smile on my face as I looked at the System Panel in front of me. [Shop] ~Wee to !~ {Wee to ! Use only 1C for a chance to get a powerful item right from the start. The odds are high, but the rewards are certain!} [Click Here to Start] I almostughed when I read the Lucky Draw''s description. ''Rewards are certain? Who are they fooling? The odds are one in a million. It''s nearly impossible to win,'' I muttered, shaking my head at the audacity of the offer. I wasn''t hoping for a legendary item that would transform my fate and make me super strong. That was just too unrealistic, and I didn''t want to set myself up for disappointment. Instead, I aimed for something more practical. ''I just want something to help me survive here, even if it onlysts until the Tutorial ends. As long as it helps me beat Demons, I''m in!'' I dered, feeling a surge of determination as I reached for the Shop interface, "Here goes nothing! Please don''t let me down!" ****** [Several Moments Later] "This... I can''t believe it..." My eyes widened, almost bloodshot. After more than thirty attempts, I finally got my first item from the Lucky Draw. I had to admit, it was nothing like I had expected. The Item was... "... A Rock? For real?!" I was dumbfounded, utterly bewildered. "This feels like a total rip-off!" I stopped myself from shouting in frustration, keeping myposure. "I mean, the odds are one in a million. What was I really expecting? Maybe I was a bit too optimistic. However, I couldn''t give up now, not aftering this far. After all, I still had 467 Currency left. It wasn''t a small amount. "Just 17C more. After that, I''ll quit. There''s got to be something good waiting for me. Please give me something good!" I pleaded desperately, hoping I somehow got lucky. Pouring all my heart and soul into it, I once again began gambling. ******* [Several Moments Later] "Ha... ha..." Sweat dripped from my brow as I focused intently on the screen before me. "How did it get to his point?" I had just blown away 100 Currency on Lucky Draw ''Shit... what am I even doing?!'' If I had scored a legendary item or an ultra-rare skill from this gamble, I might have considered it a worthwhile expense. But all I had to show for my efforts was a single rock. "Just a rock." I stared at the round object cradled in my palm. As I gazed at it, a System Window suddenly appeared before me. [Item Information] Name: Rock Special Effect: Always Returns to User. Combat Ability: +1 Durability: Infinite [End Of Information] So, this item wasn''t all that special, except for one thing - it always came back to me. However, it did boost mybat ability by a mere single point, and... "Wait a minute... the durability..." I squinted at the description, and it read ''Infinite.'' "Could this rock be more useful than I thought?" I couldn''t let myself get too hopeful, though. While its durability was impressive, its overall impact on my current situation was minimal. "I''m in a tight spot at this point. I''d like to get something more, but I''ve already hit my budget limit. Call me a cheapskate, but I don''t want my currency to drop below 400. If it does, I''ll never be able to keep myself from trying my luck with the Lucky Draw." "I guess I have no choice but to rely on this rock to survive." To make it work, I had to maximize its advantages. It might not be some super-legendary weapon, but it was all I had. The rock had unlimited durability, meaning I could use it indefinitely. It also always returned to me, kind of like Thor''s hammer. Plus, it could inflict a tiny, but still tangible amount of damage. Considering all this, I came up with a makeshift n. "The best thing I can do is... throw it at my enemies?" Being realistic, I had zerobat experience and no knowledge of martial arts. So closebat was definitely out of the question. "Throwing a rock from a distance... that''s my best shot. If I keep doing it, I should be able to take down a Demon." In a world where everything was measured by stats, even a small, persistent effort could bring down a Demon eventually. "I can''t keep making excuses." Swallowing my fear, I stood up and stared at the drugstore''s entrance/exit. Honestly, I was still terrified of what awaited me outside my sanctuary. But this was a do-or-die moment. If I didn''t act now, I''d regret it forever. "To survive in this nightmare... I have to get stronger!" * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts of the characters here, and also for interactions with me and other readers Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 21: First Hunt

Chapter 21: First Hunt

[12:30 PM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] "Alright, Mikey," I said to myself, my breath steady and my eyes determined. "You can do it. You must do this." Carefully, I peeked through the slightly open blinds, scanning the empty streets. The city that was once full of life had be a silent, eerie wastnd, infested with creatures known as Demons. They crawled and slithered, their malevolent presence evident in the ominous shadows they cast upon the sunlit pavement. ''Looks like they''re still active here. Should I use the back path to escape? Or would it be smarter to watch and wait for a safer moment?'' It reminded me of the zombie movies I watched as a kid. Back then, I didn''t quite grasp the gravity of the situation, I was far too young to understand. But now, things were different. Everything was at stake. I couldn''t afford any mistakes. Although I understood the dangers that lurked outside my safe haven, a fierce determination fueled me. I was ready to face any danger thaty ahead. ''I need to observe them, learn their patterns, and strike at the right time.'' Since I was going to be doing this for some time, it was high time I tried to understand the behavior of Demons. As I prepared myself, my heart raced with a mix of anxiety and anticipation. Armed only with my trusty rock and unwavering resolve, I took a deep breath, bracing for the imminent danger. Every instinct told me to stay put and wait for the tutorial to pass. But something within urged me to take a chance, to test my skills against the monstrous horde in the streets. "Let''s do this," I whispered, a newfound confidence igniting within me. ********** [4:56 PM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] I cautiously pushed the rusty back door open, its hinges protesting with a groan. The cool evening air enveloped me, carrying a faint scent of decay and destion. I moved forward carefully, my eyes scanning the blocks for any signs of movement. "After hours of waiting, this might be my chance," I thought. I chose the back entrance, a simple steel door that could be easily opened with a key. As long as I had the key, I could go in and go out. It was far more convenient than the fortified front entrance. I moved silently, my footsteps barely making a sound on the cracked asphalt. Every muscle in my body tensed, ready to strike at the first sign of danger. The dimming sunlight cast an ethereal glow, illuminating the cracked facades of abandoned buildings, their broken windows serving as a reminder of a world that once thrived. And then, I saw it¡ªa Demon lurking in the distance, its twisted form silhouetted against a crumbling wall. [SYSTEM WARNING] "I can see that!" I thought, but I stayed calm and remained hidden behind one of the many battered cars parked in the area. Luckily, the Demon hadn''t noticed me yet. Its red eyes glowed with malice, but it seemed preupied. ''More importantly, it''s standing still. Maybe it''s tired. Demons also have stats, so it must be low on vitality.'' ''This is my chance!'' Without hesitation, I tightly gripped my trusty Rock and aimed it at the Demon with all the strength I could muster. ''I''m screwed if this doesn''t work!'' ~WHOOOOMMMM!~ In one swift motion, I hurled the Rock straight at the resting Demon, desperately hoping for a hit. My heart pounded as I watched... and I missed. "Return!" I called out in a hushed tone. Thankfully, the Rock returned to my hand before it could make a noise and draw attention. "Phew... that was close." The Rock''s special ability allowed me to keep trying, but I couldn''t afford to linger outside for too long. The threat of Demons was ever-present. I didn''t want to be caught and killed by them. "Let''s give it another shot," I whispered to myself, attempting my second throw. And again, I missed. "Let''s do it one more time!" ... And again. "This time for sure!" ... Again and again. "Haa... fuck. This is harder than I thought." If hitting a stationary Demon was this challenging, I dreaded the thought of facing a moving one. But giving up wasn''t an option. Not yet! ''Let''s try it again!'' ~WHOOOOOMMMM!~ ... And then... ~BAM!~ This time, it connected. "RAAARRRHHHHH!!!" The Demon let out a bone-chilling screech as my trusty weapon found its mark, hitting it squarely on the head, right where it hurt the most. It writhed in agony, thrashing wildly as it clutched its head. "It''s stunned. I can''t waste this opportunity!" Summoning my Rock once more, I prepared for another throw. I recalled the sensation of my first sessful hit, and with steadyposure, I replicated the movement. ~WHOOOOMMM!~ The Rock whizzed through the air, closing the gap in an instant, and then¡­ ~BAM!~ Once again, it hit the mark. The Demon stopped its agonized shrieking and simply stopped moving. Before long, ity lifeless. ''H-huh? Just like that?'' I had expected a prolonged struggle, but it seemed killing a Demon wasn''t as hard as I''d imagined. "Maybe it was already weakened," I considered. In any case, I had done it. I had killed my first Demon! ~DING!~ A sudden notification interrupted my triumphant thoughts, and a System Message appeared before me. ''Ah! Yes, that''s right!'' I grinned with excitement. Now, I had reached Level 2, and I could feel myself growing stronger. As my joy bubbled, another ping echoed in my mind. ~DING!~ "That''s not all?" My curiosity was piqued. I wondered what else the system had in store for me. [SYSTEM NOTICE] {You will receive a Reward for this aplishment.} ~Note: Rewards will be calcted and distributed after the Tutorial~ [END OF INFORMATION] "Yeeesss!!!" My heart soared with joy as I celebrated my triumph. The thought of advancing and enjoying the rewards of my efforts filled me with a heady blend of pride and happiness. Regrettably, in my celebration, I had missed a vital detail¡ªa hidden threat that had eluded my notice. It lurked nearby, its presence shrouded in darkness, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. [SYSTEM WARNING] "H-huh...?" I questioned, my euphoria shattering as a cold breath brushed against my neck, quickly followed by a searing pain that surged through my body. "Gaahhhhh!" I spun around, but it was toote. Another Demon had seized the opportunity, its monstrous ws tearing into my flesh. The pain left me immobilized, and I found myself overwhelmed by regret. ''Mikey, you fool...'' In that dreadful moment, I realized the harsh truth that in this unforgiving world,cency and celebration were often met with swift and merciless consequences. [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} Gasping for air, I copsed to my knees, the world spinning around me. The joy I had experienced only moments ago had turned into a bitter realization. I had dropped my guard, lured by the allure of rewards and the rush of victory. Now, as darkness closed in, I understood that this was a harsh lesson¡ªa lesson that the path I had embarked upon was rife with danger and deceit. Even the slightestpse in vignce could result in a deadly oue. ''Damn it...'' I cursed myself, my vision blurring as I struggled to stay conscious. The pain throbbed, a relentless reminder of my own recklessness. I knew I had to fight, to w my way back from the brink of darkness. But for now, the world faded to ck, and I descended into the abyss of unconsciousness, regret echoing in my thoughts. [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: ; your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] * * * Character Art of Mikey right here Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing more Character Art, and also for interactions with me and other readers. Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 22: Second Round

Chapter 22: Second Round

[7:30 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] "U-urgh..." Opening my eyes slowly, I felt the rush of information from my dream flood into my mind. Unlike before, this sensation didn''t bring any pain or a headache. "Is it due to my mental resistance Title? This is the first time I''ve used to return to a point in the Tutorial." Previously, my ''save point'' had been at the start of the day, before the Tutorial even began. "Ahh..." I rose to my feet and stretched, ignoring the mess caused by my [Nightmare] earlier. "It''s a good thing I started the day. For a moment there, I thought I would return to the hotel..." I was relieved not to have to relive that hell again. More importantly, I marveled at howposed I felt. I had died not long ago, yet it didn''t feel like anything more than a dream. The pain and horror I had experienced seemed to have vanished. I was perfectly healthy. "Hold on a sec. Status Window." [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 - Combat Ability: 2/2 - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 100 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] "Haha... I guess I should have expected this," I chuckled to myself, trying to maintain a sense of optimism. All my stats had been reset, along with everything else - my Level Up, my Rock, and pretty much everything I had gained. It felt like starting from scratch all over again. ''I shouldn''t have expected all my future experience to carry over to the past, I guess.'' But maybe that wasn''t a bad thing. ''The Currency I''m about to receive. If I n it out and spend wisely, I should be able to save more,'' I reasoned, seeing a silver lining in the situation. Acquiring ''Rock'' wasn''t a bad idea, given its usefulness. Unfortunately, the Item Section of the didn''t offer ''Rock'' with unlimited durability. The items with high durability were too costly, so it would be better for me to try the Lucky Draw and hope to get that item again. ''If I do it at exactly the same time I did in the past, I should achieve the same results,'' I said with determination. As someone whose ability involved time travel, I diligently kept records of when I performed specific actions. ''I''ll get Rock, and I''ll save the Currency I spent on that Basic Survival Information,'' I concluded confidently, charting out what seemed to be the most sensible course of action. ''With careful nning and a bit of luck, I should be fine.'' ******** [Hours Later] "Unbelievable..." A wide smile formed on my face as I stared at the System Panel in front of me. Of my 600 Currency, I only spent 50, yet I already managed to get the Rock from ~Lucky Draw~ The best part? That wasn''t all I managed to get! I got one other Item! ... It was a second rock. [Item Information] Name: Enchanted Rock Special Effect: Always Returns to User. Combat Ability: +1; Energy Level: +1 Durability: Infinite [End Of Information] Unlike the first Rock, which only gave me Combat Ability, this one added to my Energy Level. So far, Energy was my only Stat which still had the base figure of 1. But now, with these two items equipped, my Stats looked like this; [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 1 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 (+1) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+2) - Stat Points: 0 - Currency: 550 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] "How did I acquire the second item, though? And why didn''t I need to spend as much asst time?" I wondered aloud, my curiosity growing with each passing moment. If I had to guess, it might be due to the slight difference in the time I left unounted for. Even though I remembered precisely when I initiated the Lucky Draw in my previous attempt, I didn''t record how many seconds each round took or how long it took me to respond to them. The ballots constantly shifted in Lucky Draw, so even a one-second difference could make or break it. ''I can''t believe I got Rock for the second time! I''m really lucky!'' I couldn''t help but marvel at my good fortune, realizing the significance of this item in my survival. I never imagined I''d be so thrilled to get an item like Rock. However, whenpared to the alternative of spending a lot and getting nothing, this was much better. "Alright, then. Since I''ve made some progress... it''s time to move on to the next phase of the n. There was no need to continue observing the Demons and their actions. I had been doing so for a while, and it was time to shift my focus. Right now, I needed to concentrate on leveling up as quickly as possible. To do that efficiently, I had to make a purchase from the System Shop. It was something I had wanted to buy during myst attempt, but due to my previous extravagant spending, I had decided to go without it. Now, with just the right amount of spare change, it was time to make that purchase. [Invisibility Potion (Lowest Grade)] {Total Price is 150 C} ~Will You Proceed With The Payment?~ [Yes] [No] Of course, my answer was "Yes" And with that, I made a purchase that guaranteed better results in this round and reduced the chances of dying. [Item Information] Name: Invisibility Potion (Lowest Grade) Special Effect: Grants Invisibility For 3 Minutes Durability: 1 Time Use [End Of Information] Since I couldn''t afford to spend my money on more expensive items, this Item would have to suffice. ''The Low-Grade one offers Invisibility for 10 minutes, and it costs 150 C¡­'' If I calcted the cost, it actually gave me an additional minute as a bonus. On the surface, it seemed like the smart choice. ''But I''m uncertain about how things will go once I''m out there. Can I really hunt Demons for a full 10 minutes without interruption? What if I have to retreat before the 10 minutes are up? What if I don''t encounter any Demons during that time? The effects would be wasted!'' More importantly, I had to consider my physical limitations. Throwing two Rocks with all my strength would certainly drain me, especially while concentrating so intensely on the target. With that in mind, it would be better to take things one step at a time. "With Invisibility, I can get closer to the Demons and take cheap shots at them. It should help me Level up faster." I decided not to activate the Invisibility until I was sure I needed it. I wouldn''t venture too far from my base, and I would retreat when there were only ten seconds left before the Invisibility wore off, avoiding any close calls. The advantage of having invisibility was that I didn''t have to wait until evening to begin my hunt. I had already figured out the Demons'' movement patterns in this area. As long as they didn''t see me leaving and returning to my base, I could hunt them down without restriction. "Alright, Mikey. It''s time for round two!" I whispered to myself with determination, ready to put my n into action. * * * [A/N] What do you think of Mikey''s journey so far? Is there anything you''d like to see? I hope you''re enjoying the story so far, so pleasement your thoughts. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing more Character Art, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 23: Level Up

Chapter 23: Level Up

[10:30 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] ~CREAK~ I gently pushed the back entrance door of my base, moving outside with quiet steps. With caution, I opened a vial holding the Invisibility potion, and its soft glow formed a ghostly aura around me. When I drank the elixir, a tingling feeling spread through my body, and instantly, I vanished from sight. [You Have Just Consumed An Item] {Time Left Until Deactivation: <02mins, 59secs> ''Every second counts from this point on!'' As silent as a ghost, I moved sneakily through the deste streets, unseen, a hidden predator under the bright sunlight. With stealth on my side, I explored the deste street, my senses alert for any sign of demonic activity. The eerie quiet was only broken by the echoes of demonic growls and the shuffling of their grotesque forms. ''As I expected, they''re quite numerous,'' I mused, watching them lumber around, oblivious to my presence. The certainty of my safety gave me purpose, and I moved with intent, my steps careful and calcted, poised for action at a moment''s notice. In no time, I found myself approaching an unsuspecting demon. Normally, I would have targeted the weaker, more exhausted ones, but time was of the essence. "They can''t see you, Mikey. You''re fine," I reassured myself as I closed the gap between us, improving my chances of a sessful strike. "GRRRRR..." I tightened my grip on the rocks I held, my gaze fixed on my first target. These makeshift projectiles had be my trusted weapons in this unforgiving reality; there was no room for hesitation. ~WHOOM!~ ~SWOOSH!~ With practiced precision, I flung my first stone and then the second, sending them hurtling through the air. ~BAM!~ ~WHAM!~ They struck the demon''s head with a resounding crack, and the creature crumpled to the ground, defeated. "Huh?" Just like that, the demon died on the spot without a struggle or sound. "Is it really this easy?" I pondered, recalling how I had dispatched my first demon with rtive ease before. Back then, I''d attributed it to the demon''s poor health, but maybe it was something more. ''No time to dwell on that now! I need to level up as fast as I can!'' I thought, and just as the idea crossed my mind, I received the expected notification. ~DING!~ That wasn''t all, though. [SYSTEM NOTICE] {You will receive a Reward for this aplishment.} ~Note: Rewards will be calcted and distributed after the Tutorial~ [END OF INFORMATION] Things seemed to be unfolding just as they had before. Still, I couldn''t afford to get too wrapped up in my achievements, not after what had happenedst time. ~SHUUUUU...~ The dead demon gradually turned into mist, leaving nothing behind as it dissipated into the air. ''Not even a single trace? Maybe it''s because it''s just a weak foe,'' I spected. Regardless, I needed to move on to my next target. The death of the lone demon had stirred up somemotion among the nearby demons,plicating matters. Thankfully, I remained unseen, allowing me to continue my mission. "I''m going to grind like crazy!" I resolved, determined to make the most of my invisibility. ******* I systematically eliminated the demons I encountered, one by one. My invisibility granted me a significant advantage, enabling me to strike quickly and silently. With each rock I threw, a surge of satisfaction washed over me as the monsters crumbled. Their grotesque forms littered the ground, a testament to my growing expertise. Unfortunately, none of this couldst very long due to the timeout I constantly experienced. When my time ran out, I had to retreat to my base and consume another potion to continue my demon-ying spree. I leveled up twice more before the invisibility potions finally ran dry, ending my day''s work. I learned a lot from this experience. Firstly, as I ascended in levels, it became increasingly challenging to level up further. In my Level 1 days, a single demon kill sufficed. However, my second level required five, and my third needed fifteen. Eventually, I hit a wall at Level 4 when my stamina and potions were depleted. Another thing I learned was the demons'' state. These formidable creatures, while dangerous, proved to be surprisingly weak. They fell to my attacks with ease, often sumbing after just two rock throws. Since I hadn''t allocated my stats yet, I could only assume that things would get even easier as I grew stronger. Initially, I couldn''tprehend why these terrifying beings were so vulnerable. However, it finally dawned on me. I realized that this post-apocalyptic world was essentially a tutorial. Despite its grim state, it offered us novices a chance to survive. These demons were merely toned-down versions, designed to facilitate our learning and development. ''I can only imagine the struggle if they were too formidable. Most people wouldn''t stand a chance.'' However, despite this being the case, the situation was far from simple. Only when I dared to face one myself did I realize how easy it was. I was certain that most ordinary individuals wouldn''t summon the courage to try. ''Besides, I only started hunting demons because of the information I acquired. What about those who opted to hide in their homes and forgo the fight?'' The reality was that most would choose not to even engage the demons. "But that''s not my concern, though. I''ll keep doing this!" I couldn''t help but grin as I contemted the strength I could attain if I kept up the pace. A mix of relief and determination surged through my veins. My encounters with the demons equipped me with an understanding of their patterns, habits, and weaknesses. What once seemed insurmountable was now within reach. The thrill of the hunt pulsed within me, urging me onward. This new world had be my battlefield, and I was determined to conquer it, one demon at a time [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 4 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 (+1) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+2) - Stat Points: 9 - Currency: 400 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] ******* [11:02 AM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] I entered the dimly lit interior of my base, kicking off my well-worn boots before copsing onto a creaky chair. The aroma of canned food filled the air as I opened a can of beans, its echoing pop breaking the silence. I devoured the simple meal, relishing each bite that restored my energy. ''Haaa...'' The food wasn''t luxurious by any means, but it was a feastpared to what others might have. I had enough food and water to sustain me many times over, and an array of medications surrounded me, ready for use in case I ended up ill or injured. ''Come to think of it, my hands are aching,'' I mused. The strain from hurling rocks with all my might had taken its toll on my body. ''Some painkillers and balms should help.'' I couldn''t have asked for a more ideal base. As I sat there, reflecting on the day''s events, a weighty thought lingered. I had decided to live this way until the Tutorial concluded and until I had mastered its challenges and could navigate its perils effortlessly. Given the possibilities of whaty beyond, this seemed to be my best shot at survival, and so far, it appeared to be working. ''Still, I can''t help but wonder... how many times will I have to face death before I truly master this new world?'' The notion both terrified and fascinated me. No one desired death, but at the same time, I found it amazing that I was given the chance to correct my mistakes if I ever ended up like that. ''I just have to give it my all, huh?'' My mind then drifted to the other survivors scattered across different ''Zones,'' as the System referred to them. I wondered how they were faring in their battles against the chaos that had engulfed our world. Were they facing the same demons as me? Or were their challenges different and more dangerous? ''Will I meet other people before the Tutorial ends? Or is that a futile hope?'' Only two more days remained until this ordeal concluded. I had to concentrate on growing stronger. That was my foremost priority. With a sigh, I brushed aside these thoughts, recognizing that dwelling on them wouldn''t change my circumstances. After finishing my meal, I smiled, closed my eyes, and relished the warmth in my stomach, feeling strength course through my body. ''I did it. I won and survived.'' In this bleak world, I had found a way to thrive, to endure, and to evolve. * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 24: The Colossal Demon [Pt 1]

Chapter 24: The Colossal Demon [Pt 1]

It was a calm night. I dreamt of a peaceful night''s rest, my body finally free from hunger and regret. I waspletely at peace, and I looked forward to another day of demon hunting, my heart filled with determination and purpose. ... Until... ~BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM!!!~ But then, a deafening explosion disrupted my rest. I jolted upright, my eyes searching for the source of the noise. That''s when I saw it. It was when I looked at it that I understood the true meaning of despair. The metal obstruction that secured the front door of the Drugstore had copsed, and standing right outside was a horrifying creature I had yet to encounter. [SYSTEM WARNING] ''Dangerous?'' I thought. Weren''t all demons dangerous? The fact that the Systembeled this one as such meant it was deadlier than anything I''d faced. And I wasn''t surprised by that analysis. My hands trembled as I reached for my weapons, realizing this would be a battle like no other. This demon stood five meters tall, a grotesque mix of fat and muscle. Its potbelly jiggled as it tore down the metal door securing the drugstore, sending shards of metal flying through the air. Panic surged within me, but I had no choice but to stand my ground. Our eyes locked, and instantly I knew there was no escape. "ROOOOOOOOOAAAAARRRRRRR!!!" It lunged at me with a savage fury, too fast for me to prepare or throw my ''Rocks.'' They wouldn''t have made a difference anyway. Its sheer size and power were overwhelming, and I felt a sinking sensation in the pit of my stomach. ~SQUELCH!~ Its fangs sank into me, draining my energy in an instant. Pain coursed through my body, and I could feel my strength waning rapidly. [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} In ast desperate move, I struck the creature with both rocks. It felt like hitting an imprable wall. My feeble attacks couldn''t stop it from consuming my flesh and innards, causing blood to pool at my feet. As darkness closed in, I clung to a glimmer of hope, praying for a miracle. And then, the thread of my life snapped... [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: ; your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] ... And I woke up from the dream. ******** [12:52 PM, Thursday 4th of May, 2023] "Argh! ahhh... haaa...." I awoke from a terrible dream, clutching my body instinctively. I found myself back in the drugstore after my short nap, following my meal. "Haa... I see. So that''s what happened." In my dream, a demon more powerful than any I''d ever encountered had appeared. Even with my increased levels and trusty weapons, I stood no chance against it. ''It seems I still haven''t grasped basic survival as I thought.'' A wry smile crept onto my face as beads of sweat trickled down my face. Did I truly believe I could breeze through the tutorial by merelypleting simple tasks? Why didn''t I consider the possibility of stronger demons and tougher challenges? ''Looks like I made a mistake again. It cost me my life, and if not for , it would have been game over.'' My exclusive skill had saved me countless times. It was a lifesaver for someone like me. It made even an idiot like me capable of living through this hell. ''To be fair, though, there''s no way I could have seen iting. How did it know I was here?'' I wondered, but the answer didn''t seem important now. There was one thing I was sure of though. This ce was no longer safe for me. ''I''ve studied the lesser demons, and learned their moves and patterns, but this one is a mystery.'' It was too risky to try to figure it out now. ''I''m too weak to take it on. Grinding for the rest of the day might not even make me strong enough to stand a chance.'' Also, if one dangerous demon could breach the drugstore, others might follow. After all, I wasn''t certain only one of those Demons existed. ''The System specifically warned me about a ''Dangerous Demon.'' That implies there might be more out there. I couldn''t let my guard down. "It''s regrettable, but it seems I can''t stay here any longer." My previous approach no longer applied. "To be safe, I can''t linger in one ce for more than one night." It could be paranoia, but I had a feeling that the Tutorial wanted to discourage staying in a single location for too long¡ªspecifically one asfortable as this one. Being both an active hunter and nestled in this haven filled with everything I needed, I had the best of both worlds. Perhaps my extended stay had upset the bnce of survival, and the massive demon was sent to disrupt my newfound stability. ''Or maybe I''m just unlucky. Overthinking won''t help anyways.'' The n was simple. Gather supplies and food, then leave. "It''s a shame, but it''s for the best." I nced at the stash of drugs and medicines in the room, realizing I couldn''t leave them behind. It would be a waste. ''Who knows when they mighte in handy?'' And then an idea struck me! "Why don''t I relocate these drugs and most of the resources to a different area? I''ll use it as my storage. Then, I''ll pick another spot as my living quarters and rotate between them from time to time." This way, I could safeguard my assets. ''It''ll take some time, but it''s not impossible.'' This was a residential area, offering plenty of options. ''If I can predict the Demon''s patterns, I won''t even need an invisibility potion. I''ll just avoid them and transport the resources in batches.'' Afterward, I had to find a residential area close to the storage spot for easy ess and monitoring. ''There are only about two days left before the Tutorial ends. I should hold out until then.'' Leveling up would have to wait for now. At this point, I needed to move. ''But... that''s not all, is it?'' The frustration and humiliation from facing that colossal demon still weighed on me. I had never felt so powerless. "I can''t just forget about it." I thought sadly. Despite trying so hard to ignore it, I just couldn''t let it go. "Haaa... it seems it''s not over yet." A smile crept onto my face. Since it was that demon''s fault that I couldn''t level up today and that I was now homeless, it had to take responsibility. "That''s right. I need to reim those lost levels somehow..." A determined glint shone in my eyes as an idea formed. "I have to hunt it down. The Colossal Demon." This newfound determination filled me with a sense of purpose. I wasn''t just surviving in this world anymore; I was going to take the fight to the demons, starting with the one that had humiliated me. With a n in mind, I began to gather my belongings and prepare for the dangerous journey ahead, determined to rise above this ordeal. * * * [A/N] I wonder what n Mikey has up his sleeves. Comment your thoughts below. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 25: The Colossal Demon [Pt 2]

Chapter 25: The Colossal Demon [Pt 2]

[12:52 AM, Friday 5th of May, 2023] The moon hung low in the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the quiet city. The streets were empty, except for the lumbering Demons that roamed about, and a strange silence filled the air. In one street, there was a small drugstore. Its windows were dark and still, as though waiting for dawn to awaken it. Inside, the drugstore was empty, thest traces of its daily activities abandoned until morning. Rows of empty hangers swayed gently in the still air, and shelves stood bare. The entrance was securely sealed with iron sheets, giving the illusion of safety against the outside world. Suddenly, a deep rumble broke the silence. The ground trembled as a monstrous creature approached, its heavy footsteps causing the very foundations of the building to quake. Shadows danced outside the drugstore, cast by the beast''s enormous form as it drew nearer. "ROOOOOOOOOAAAAARRRRRRR!!!" With a tremendous roar, the creature mmed into the iron sheets covering the entrance, its raw power unleashed upon the unsuspecting barrier. BAM! The metal groaned and protested but it couldn''t hold against the relentless assault. ~WHAM!~ Piece by piece, the iron sheets began to buckle and bend, giving in to the monster''s immense strength. ~BOOOOOOMMMMM!!!~ As thest remnants of the barrier gave way, the creature burst inside, a terrifying presence. It stood tall, towering over the drugstore, its massive frame casting a dark shadow inside. "GRRRRRRRR..." A chilling growl escaped its monstrous maw, reverberating throughout the walls. The creature moved with purpose, its instincts guiding its every step. Empty hangers swung violently, protesting the intrusion with metallic ngs. Shelves, stripped of their goods, shuddered and copsed under the monster''s fury like dominoes. The creature prowled the aisles, its eyes scanning the wreckage, searching for something only it seemed to understand. Its massive ws tore through shelves, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Amidst the chaos, the creature''s growls filled the air, a haunting symphony of destion. The air became heavy with the stench of the creature''s despairing presence... but also with something else. The Colossal Demon sniffed the air in an attempt to recognize the smell that overpowered its senses, but its primitive brain could notprehend it. Whatever it was, though, pervaded every single object in the room. "GRRRRRR...??" The creature felt the wetness on the ground, overpowered by the strange smell the liquids emitted. It couldn''t fathom what it was. Just what could it be? ~SHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII~ Unfortunately, the beast would never find out. ~BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!~ The entire drugstore burst into mes, shattering the stillness of the night with thunderous shockwaves. Sparks of fire scattered through the streets, sending nearby Demons into a panicked frenzy. Columns of smoke and mes billowed into the night sky, contaminating the cool, crisp air. As for the fate of the giant monster that had ventured inside... "..." ... It never came out. ******** "I-I did it?!" My eyes widened with a mix of relief and surprise as I observed the explosion at my former base from a safe distance. I was currently in a boutique at the opposite end of the pharmacy, and I had used the trail of gasoline I''d set up earlier to create a line of mes leading to the pharmacy, which was filled with all the gasoline I could find, along with the surrounding areas. ''There are some mmable products, like certain sprays, so I used those as well.'' The n took a long time to execute, and I almost ran out of time before everything was in ce. Fortunately, I managed to pull it off somehow. What worried me the most was the intensity of the st and whether it would be enough to finish off the Colossal Demon or not. ''Looks like my worries were misced.'' There was no way I could have stood a chance against something like that, so I had to resort to this indirect approach to eliminate it. However, there was one major issue with this method. ''Since it''s an indirect kill, will I be rewarded for it? Or...?'' ~DING!~ ''Looks like I will be rewarded after all,'' I smiled in relief upon hearing the triumphant chime of the System. "H-huh? Four at once? That''s insane!" I quickly lowered my voice to avoid attracting any nearby Demons. ''This ce isn''t as secure as the drugstore, but I''ll have to make do for now.'' I couldn''t stop thinking about the four Level Ups I had just received, though. ''Was the monster that strong?'' A bead of sweat formed on my face as I watched the pharmacy engulfed in mes. It was a good thing I had prepared myself beforehand. "With this, I''m currently at Level 8... It''s an impressive aplishment, especially because it puts me in a better position than I recall from my dream." ''I was at Level 6 when the Colossal Demon first attacked.'' My Skill not only allowed me to rectify past mistakes but also provided me with the chance to create even more opportunities. "System Window." [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 8 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 (+1) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+2) - Stat Points: 21 - Currency: 400 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , - Skills (Exclusive): , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): - Items Equipped: , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Hmm..." With my current Level, I should consider myself around average, maybe? Since this is already the sixth day, this should be normal. ''My initial goal was to reach Level 10 at least before the Tutorial ends, but now... maybe I can set my sights even higher.'' It was at this point that I made up my mind to exceed my limits. "Alright! Let''s aim for Level 15 before the Tutorial ends." * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 26: The Tutorial Ends

Chapter 26: The Tutorial Ends

[10:52 AM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "How... how can this be?" I muttered, slumped in my makeshift base, an abandoned warehouse a few buildings away from my previous hideout. My face wore a pallor of disappointment, and despair gnawed at me. I was distraught, my eyes sunk with weariness, my body unable to bear the weight of my failure. "I believed I could do it. I really did," I whispered, my voice heavy with regret. On the sixth day, after defeating the Colossal Demon, I was convinced I could push myself to Level 15. I couldn''t have been more wrong. "Even after killing over a hundred Demons throughout the sixth day, I only managed to reach Level 9, and I''ve been stuck there ever since." "I can''t even reach Level 10, let alone Level 15, and the Tutorial is almost over." Once it reached 11:00 AM, the Tutorial would conclude, rendering my efforts pointless. Moreover, there were hardly any Demons left in my vicinity, and I didn''t want to venture too far from my base. ''I should have been more proactive, hunted down more Demons, or even spent more Currency,'' I contemted but immediately dismissed the thought. ''No, thinking that way won''t help.'' Leveling Up was inevitably going to get more challenging as I progressed. How many more Demons would I need to kill before I Leveled Up again? Two hundred? Three hundred? Maybe even five hundred? Impossible. I couldn''t possibly kill that many. "Reaching Level 15 was an unattainable goal from the start," I realized. In the end, I could only find contentment in the progress I had made and watch as the clock counted down to the Tutorial''s conclusion. {Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 000 hrs: 02 mins: 30 secs} I waited, bracing myself for the next challenge, but first, I anticipated my rewards. {Time Left until the end of the Tutorial: 000 hrs: 00 mins: 10 secs} I could only hope that all my efforts were worth it. ~DING!~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Congrattions, User! You have ovee the first stumbling block, and you are now fit to officially begin the race.} {You are the overall best candidate in your Zone, being the first to subjugate a Demon, and also being the one to kill the Boss. You also possess the most Currency, and you have the highest Level} "Well, it seems there''s both good news and bad news," I mused aloud. The good news exceeded my expectations. I had always believed that the Colossal Demon was unique, as I had never encountered another like it since that incident. But it had never crossed my mind that it might be the Boss. ''And to think I thought there were others...'' No, it was probably smart of me to have assumed the existence of stronger enemies. It made me cautious. ''Or maybe it held me back? Well, dwelling on that won''t change a thing now.'' The Tutorial had ended, so there was no point in regretting what might have been. "Besides, isn''t it already impressive that I got the highest score overall?" The fact that I held the highest Level and Currency and that I was the top candidate in my Zone, meant I didn''t perform too badly. "In all honesty, it''s not an exaggeration to say I did exceptionally well, is it?" Yes, it hadn''t been easy, but I had persevered and put in the work. I had earned this victory. ... But then I considered the bad news. "Just as I feared, I haven''t officially started the race. The Tutorial was just to acquaint everyone with what lies ahead." Frankly, the thought of what awaited me next sent shivers down my spine. Thankfully, those unsettling thoughts were short-lived, thanks to the calmingposure that washed over me during moments of mental anguish. ~DING!~ The System''s chime drew my attention away from the unsettling future and back to the rewards I was reaping. Literally ignoring the stick and focusing on the carrot. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] ~Three Treasure Chests (Rare)~ ~1,000 Currency~ ~New Exclusive Skill: ~ ~New Non Exclusive Skills: and ~ ~Additional Level Up (1 Level)~ "A-amazing! To think... to think I am receiving all of this!" Before I even had a chance to grow even more excited about my rewards and revel in my curiosity, I was interrupted. ~DING!~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] ~One Treasure Chest (Common)~ ~100 Currency~ ~Item: - Authority: - Titles: , , , - Skills (Exclusive): , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Ah, I also have a new Title. This is going so well!" There was only one thing left to do now. ''Hehe!'' The moment I wanted to start checking out the new stuff I got, I got yet another notification from the System. ~DING!~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {However, even though all of you performed admirably, there are those who truly shone in the Tutorial. They will now be acknowledged in order of their achievements.} "Oh? They''re actually doing something like this?" My heart began to race inexplicably. An electric thrill surged through my body as I stared at the screen, filled with anticipation. ''With everything I''ve achieved, I should be among the top, right?'' It seemed only logical. I had defeated a Boss and persevered through countless trials. Most people would have died if they were in my shoes, but thanks to my abilities, I survived. I didn''t consider myself arrogant, but¡­ I couldn''t help but wonder where I stood among these exceptional survivors. Would my name be one of the first to sh across the screen? [Tutorial Leaderboard] 1. Caleb 2. Francis Baker 3. Lucy Fer 4. Kirito Kageyama 5. Sasha Brown 6. Levi Davis 7. Park Hyun Soo 8. Hakeem Ahmed 9. Mikey Rael 10. Lisa Scofield [End Of List] For a moment, my mind went nk as I scanned the list from bottom to top, and my thoughts ground to a halt. Why? The sheer volume of information was overwhelming. There was just too much to unpack. "H-how can this be...?" I stammered. While I couldn''t help but feel a pang of disappointment at not securing the top spot, in a more grounded moment, I realized that it made sense. After all, being among the Top 10 in the entire world was still a remarkable achievement. Names like Caleb, Francis Baker, and especially the weird one, Lucy Fer, instantly etched themselves into my mind. I couldn''t help but wonder what extraordinary feats had catapulted them to such high rankings. However... "Why is her name here?" My gaze lingered on the Number 10 spot on the list. "Lisa Scofield. That''s... ''her'' name!" Why was this person bearing the same name as the bitch who betrayed me?! Wasn''t she supposed to be dead already? ''And she''s just one Zone away from me. This is... I don''t know what to make of it...'' Was this the same Lisa I had known? Was she still alive? If that was the case, how had Ie into possession of her Currency? No, there were more pressing questions. If this truly was Lisa... if she was truly alive... "What will I do if I see her again?" * * * [A/N] Looks like things aren''t as simple as Mikey thought. Who are these rankers in the leaderboard? What impact will they have on Mikey in the future? ... And who is the girl called Lisa? Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 27: Exploring Rewards

Chapter 27: Exploring Rewards

[11:21 AM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "I''m probably overreacting. Lisa is a prettymon name," I thought aloud. Yeah, that had to be the case. The Lisa I knew was already gone. Moreover, this new person was from a different Zone. So what if she had the same name, and the proximity seemed a bit suspicious? "It''s not impossible for two people with the same name to live close to each other," I reassured myself. The odds were slim, but they were definitely higher than the chances of Lisaing back to life after her death. "Phew! That had me worried for a moment," I admitted, relieved. It did strike me as odd that the first and second survivors on the list lived near me, but I decided not to dwell on it too much. "I can''t afford to think about that right now," I reminded myself. Currently, there are more pressing matters to consider. ~DING!~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Survivors will have a 24-hour interval before the Tower Of Trialsmences} {Each survivor''s location will be marked as a Safe Zone. No Demon can invade or harm those inside. More information will be provided after the Interval} "Looks like we have a break," I said with a grin, noticing something shimmering on the ground in front of me. "Could it be...?" The item resembled a small scroll, tied with a golden ribbon, radiating an air of importance. I reached out for it, carefully examining the object as my fingers traced its smooth surface, wondering what it could be. [Item Information] Name: Tower Pass (Floor 1) Special Effect: Allows User entrance to the First Floor of the Tower Of Trials. (Remains With User until Death.) Combat Ability: NIL Durability: Infinite [End Of Information] "I see. This seems pretty significant," I remarked. I was d to know that the Pass wouldn''t disappear from a User''s possession unless that User died. However, on further thought, it appeared that the System intended to ensure that everyone who survived had to participate in the Tower Of Trials. "Well, dwelling on these specifics won''t help right now," I concluded. My primary concerny in how much I had grown and the many things I had received from the System. The newfound powers and abilities were exhrating, but they also carried a weight of responsibility. "Status Window." [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 10 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 1/1 (+1) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+2) - Stat Points: 27 - Currency: 1,500 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , - Skills (Exclusive): , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Alright. Let''s check out the Treasure Chests first." I grinned, tapping on the ''Pending'' System Icon on my screen. [Treasure Chest Contents (Rare)] ~Enchanted Shirt: ~ ~Enchanted Pants: ~ ~Enchanted Sneakers: ~ {Set Item Effect: } "Amazing! To think my Combat Ability skyrocketed just because of these three Items!" This meant I was gaining a total of 12 Combat Ability points from them alone. The Stat Points alone were equivalent to four Level Ups. ''I''m sure the Durability must be limited, but this is still an incredible find.'' ''Awesome! What about the Common Treasure Chest?'' [Treasure Chest Content (Common)] ~Defense Ring~ [Item Information] Name: Defense Ring Special Effect: Defends against attacks less than or equal to twice the amount of Combat Ability of the User. Combat Ability: (DEF) Durability: One-time Use [End Of Information] "Oh? Not too shabby," I remarked. Honestly, I was expecting less, given that it was just a Common Grade Treasure Chest, but this was quite satisfactory. ''At least, for someone like me. It might not be as valuable if weak and inexperienced Users get hold of it. With the kind of stacked Combat Ability I have, only someone over Level 8 who has invested every Stat Point in Combat Ability could even hope to challenge me.'' ''Of course, if they have an Item that counters this, it''s a different story.'' Still, if I considered my adversaries to be Demons, then this was a pretty good deal. "It''s a shame that it''s only a one-time use, but it''s still good." I decided to equip the items immediately. When I tapped on each one, it offered the option, and I epted. ~FSHIIIIIII~ In an instant, my old clothes dropped to the ground, reced by a new outfit. A sleek ck hoodie, matching ck pants, and stylish ck and dark red sneakers. It was perfect! "Considering the fact that I didn''t have to customize anything, and it gave me exactly what I wanted... is the System reading my mind?" I wondered, half-jokingly. But jokes aside, I could definitely sense a rush of power like never before. "So this is what it''s like to have an additional 12 Combat Ability," I mused. That brought my total to about 15, which was already extraordinary, considering the fact that I hadn''t used a single Stat Point since I began leveling up. "Now, let''s check out the Skills I''ve acquired." "borate On Skills." [Skills] (Exclusive) : Allows the user to experience future events in the form of a dream. These future events are basically the user''s experience. Trauma could be experienced as a result of this Skill. {Note: User may not take his own life or intentionally try to use this Skill. It will not activate.} : Allows the user to interact with the present/immediate future. Actions taken synchronize with reality, solidifying their effects. {Note: Using this reduces Life Force, so frequent utilization of this Skill is not advised} : Allows the user to see up to five seconds into the future. {Note: Consumes 1 Energy per second of use. 1 Second cool-down limit per each future second seen. (Non-Exclusive) : Doubles User''s usual speed for one minute. {Note: 1 Energy per use. 10 Seconds cooldown) : Heightens User''s senses for one minute. {Note: 1 Energy per use. 10 Seconds cooldown) [END OF INFORMATION] "This is insane!" I eximed. Sure, the cost of acquiring these Skills was substantial, but with them, hunting Demons and staying alive would be significantly easier. "Especially , it gives me the power to glimpse into the future without dying first. That''s amazing!" Of course, I had to be careful with it, considering the cool-down and cost, but it was undoubtedly worth it. and were equally valuable. All these Skills would be indispensable to me. "I don''t regret my choices, not one bit!" Just the thought of missing out on these opportunities for the sake of spending afortable week in the hotel seemed like a major loss. Now, it was time to consider my current wealth. "I have 1,500 Currency now. As much as I''d like to save, I can''t be too thrifty. With these new Skills at my disposal, there''s something I need more than anything else..." Energy Level! "I should invest in an Item that boosts my Energy Level or enhances my recovery. Maybe both. That way, I won''t run out of Energy in the middle of a fight." It was probably also time to start thinking of how to properly invest my Stat Points. "I''m reallycking in Energy, after all. My Life Force doesn''t look much better.'' For the moment, I decided to browse the Shop for an Item that would address my Energy Level needs. * * * [A/N] I''m sorry for the Info Dumps, but this is the part where we get to see how far the Mc hase, and his growth. I hope you enjoy the chapter and appreciate Mikey''s growth as a survivor and a person. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 28: Getting Stronger

Chapter 28: Getting Stronger

[11:58 AM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "I need to buy an Item that increases my Energy Level or boosts recovery. Maybe both. That way, I won''t run out of Energy mid-fight." It was probably also time to start thinking of how to properly invest my Stat Points. ''I''m really low on energy, after all. My Life Force also looks pretty weak too.'' For the moment, though, I decided to check the Shop for an Item that suited my needs in the Energy Level department. [SYSTEM SHOP] {Wee to the Shop, where we Sell you anything you need, or want. As long as you possess enough ''Currency'', you can get anything here.} < Avable Bnce: 1,500 C > ~Skill Section~ ~Item Section~ ~Information Section~ ~Lucky Draw ( 1 C )~ ~Custom Request ( 1,000 C )~ [Let''s Do Business] ~Item Section~ was the ce to go, and it didn''t take long for my search toe to a halt. "Eureka!" A grin formed on my face as I spotted exactly the item I was in need of. "There you are..." [Item Information] Name: Lowest Quality Energy Recovery Ne (Upgradeable) Special Effect: Restores 2 Energy Per Minute Combat Ability: Durability: [End Of Information] " and use up one Energy Level each. Right now, I have two Energy Levels, so even without adding a Stat Point, this item should cover those two Skills'' needs. Of course, I didn''t n on stopping there. was still a Skill I couldn''t overlook. I was most definitely going to use it sparingly, due to its Energy consumption, but it''s extremely valuable so I couldn''tpletely throw out its prospects, now could I? {Will You Purchase This Item for 200 Currency?} It was cheaper than I expected. Perhaps it was due to its very low durability. ''I don''t n on letting anything touch it, though.'' I resolved, smiling to myself. Besides, considering it was Upgradable and had no set period of expiration, I considered it a steal. "I need to buy one more item." This particr one had caught my eye several times whenever I browsed through the during my time in the Tutorial. I spotted my target in the and tapped on it instantly. [Item Information] Name: Item Merger (Lowest Quality) Special Effect: Fuses two Items (Common Grade only) Combat Ability: Durability: One-time Use [End Of Information] I couldn''t help but smile as I took out the items I had in mind. They were my most trustedpanions in this solitary adventure. "These two should do the trick..." That''s right! My two trusty Rocks! "Energy Rock and Rock. It''s time for both of you to unite." {Will You Purchase This Item for 50 Currency?} I felt like I was spending money a bit too freely now, knowing I might have a shot at a better item in the ~Lucky Draw~. However, I wasn''t willing to leave it up to chance. I made the purchase, reducing my funds to 1,250 Currency. I could only hope my investment would pay off. And did it? Well... [Item Information] Name: Energy Rock (Upgradeable) Special Effect: Always Returns to User. Floats on User''s fingertips. Can be controlled by the User through a mental link. Combat Ability: +3 Energy Level: +2 Durability: Infinite [End Of Information] Once again, I had the ultimate weapon in my hands. What could be better than a regr Rock and an Enchanted Rock? An Energy Rock! "It''s even upgradeable! Awesome! This might just be my Thor''s Hammer!" I couldn''t help but grin like a fool as I gazed at the sizzling, yet glowing rock hovering on my fingertips. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I was unable to resist its enchanting allure that never failed to pull me closer. "It''s so beautiful." After acquiring all the items I needed from the and feeling thoroughly pumped up, there was one final task on my list. It was a bit like saving the best forst, though Rock would always be the best of course. This one, however, was more important. "It''s time to distribute my Stat Points." ******** "Status Window." A smile spread across my face as Ipleted the allocation of my resources to where I believed they were needed. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 10 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+3), (+12) - Stat Points: 20 - Currency: 1,250 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "It looks good. I have extra Stat Points in case of real emergencies." Besides, I had a feeling I shouldn''t spend too much of it. At least, not yet. Upgrading my Life Force crossed my mind, but it didn''t seem like the top priority at the time. If I died, it wouldn''t be the end of the world, unpleasant as it might be. I didn''t have much to lose anyway. Why prolong my suffering by extending my Life Force? If I encountered a monster that required more Life Force to defeat, I''d upgrade it then. For now, though... ''It''s better this way.'' With my Combat Ability and Energy Levels already sufficient, I felt reasonably confident. But beneath that confidencey a hint of unease, a nagging doubt that whispered in the back of my mind. What if there were challenges ahead that I couldn''t anticipate? These uncertainties made me cautious. ''But it sure is good to have items and equipment.'' I mused, shifting away from morbid thoughts. With everything in ce, I finally had the time to decide on my next move. I stood up, a sharp smile on my face, determination burning in my heart, ready to venture out once more. My heart raced with the thrill of the unknown, the anticipation of challenges yet to be faced, and the promise of rewards waiting to be imed. It was time for a hunt! * * * [A/N] The Tutorial is over, but does that stop our Mc from venturing out? Nope! Also, do you think he made the right choice? What are your thoughts so far? Comment them down below! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 29: Period Of Grace [Pt 1]

Chapter 29: Period Of Grace [Pt 1]

Ever since the System announced the end of the Tutorial and our positions as Safe Zones, one thing has been bothering me ¨C the phrase it mentioned at the very end , or something like that. The System never outright told us to rest, but it left the option open. That alone made me think. ''Also, the fact that there are Safe Zones means the Demons are still out there.'' The System didn''t discourage survivors from going out to grind for more. Instead, it even provided a 24-hour interval for exactly that purpose. I didn''t need to spend my points on ''Information'' to sense that something was fishy about this setup. I even had a theory. "Maybe this is our grace period. Ast chance to get stronger before we face the Tower Of Trial the System has been preparing us for." ''If that''s true, then these Safe Zones are just afy trap the System''s dangled in front of us ¨C a false sense of security. Many would fall for it and miss out on the bigger opportunity that lies beyond.'' ''What if there are more rewards? What if I can level up further?'' These thoughts kept nagging at me, making it impossible to stay put. The relentless urge to explore grew stronger with each passing moment. .In the end, I realized I couldn''t just twiddle my thumbs in this warehouse. If I wanted to survive and get even stronger in this world, I had to leave myfort zone. I had to hunt! ****** [12:13 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] The cool breeze tousled my dark hair as I scanned the streets with my amber eyes, searching for lurking prowlers. By now, Demon-Hunting was second nature to me, and I had a firm grasp of all the essentials, including staying hidden from the enemy. "It seems the Demons haven''t changed much in appearance. It''s the same as the ones from the Tutorial," I thought to myself as I watched the creatures loitering around. I wasn''t sure if this was good or bad news, all things considered. "The good part is they''re still predictable and easy to defeat. But that''s the problem. If they stay this easy, leveling up won''t happen." That was a big issue for me. ''I''ve hit a wall in Leveling Up. It''s going to be even tougher for me now that I''m at Level 10.'' Merely killing the same monsters just wouldn''t cut it anymore. ''At the very least, though, I can use them to practice my new Skills and see how well theybine inbat.'' Sooner orter, I''d have to put these new abilities to the test. It made more sense to do so now, especially against rtively safe foes, which would yield even better results. ''Alright, Mikey. Let''s do this!'' I took a deep breath, loosened my tense muscles, and activated the first Skill. '''' Suddenly, my senses expanded beyond my immediate surroundings, capturing everything around me in that moment. I could see, hear, and feel everything within my range, even behind me. It felt like I had merged with my environment. "Haaaa... amazing!" With , it seemed I didn''t need to worry about an ambush¡ªat least, not from these low-level Demons. With time ticking, I swiftly activated the second Skill: . A wave of energy coursed through me, invigorating my legs especially, as they became stronger and filled with vitality. I couldn''t let this newfound energy go to waste, so I moved instantly. ~WHOOOOSSSSHHH~ I zoomed off, feeling the wind brush past my face as I closed in on the unsuspecting enemies. I was faster! Much faster than ever before! It felt almost unreal! Combat Abilitybined a lot of elements into one; offense, defense, agility, endurance, dexterity, etc. The fact that I raised my Combat Ability meant all of these Stats were improved simultaneously. With my Combat Ability now at 14, minus the effects of the Energy Rock, thanks to my newly acquired attire, I felt as light as a feather and brimming with power. I had be a lethal, demon-killing predator. "Should I try taking down one of these Demons?" My body moved as quickly as my thoughts, and in no time, I closed in on the growling creatures. ~WHAM!~ With effortless grace, I thrust my arm forward,nding a solid blow to a Demon''s jaw, sending it tumbling away from me. Without pausing for a moment, despite the attention I''d garnered, I rushed at the other Demons and delivered the same lethal strikes. "GRAAAAHHHH!!!" A bunch of them attempted to gang up on me, but they were too slow. Or perhaps I was just too fast. ~FWISH~ Twisting my body in the air, I deftly dealt a roundhouse kick to one right on the head, while using my other leg to deal a blow to another Demon at the back of its neck. There might have been a faint Crack after the impact, or maybe that was just my imagination. Within a minute, just as I felt the effects of both and wearing off, I had inflicted a substantial amount of damage to my adversaries. Over a dozen Demonsy on the ground, effectively incapacitated. "Twenty-one, huh? Not bad..." Something seemed off, though. Not only did I have to hit some Demons twice, but they seemed more resilient than I had anticipated as I shed with them. "I should be able to take down four or five of them with a single blow, given my past performance and current strength." Their ability to withstand prolongedbat suggested one thing. ''They have grown stronger.'' Things had indeed be tougher after the Tutorial ended. Just as I suspected, it seemed the Tutorial had weakened the Demons to ensure our sess. The training wheels were off now, but I was still managing pretty well on my own. ''However, judging by this situation, it''s like the System is trying to discourage furtherbat. It makes me even more curious.'' A wide grin spread across my face, and I heard approaching footsteps. ''More areing, huh?'' I thought, smirking. Quickly concealing myself before another Demon could spot me, I left behind the corpses of my fallen adversaries, their bodies had already began to vanish. Luckily, there were several structures to choose from, and I sought refuge in a partly ruined building. It''s walls were torn down on one end, most likely done by a powerful entity. If I had to guess, it was possibly the work of that Collosal Demon I defeated. In any case, I hid there and watched my next group of prey gather, growling and looking around aimlessly. ''I''ve tested out both and . They''re on cool-down now, but they''ll be he useful going forward.'' The next item on my checklist was the newest Exclusive Skill in my arsenal. "Let''s do this... " Upon activating the Skill, reality blurred around me, and I experienced an odd sensation, like a sudden wave or echo entering my mind. It was all so surreal, and I couldn''t properly describe the feeling, but I was suddenly immersed in a scenery that disyed the movements of the clustering Demons while I simply watched, unable to do anything but observe. A countdown timer appeared at the top center of my vision, and I realized that I had only just scratched the surface of what my newfound abilities could achieve. The Demons sniffed around and growled. They walked slowly, ring at everything in their path. They bumped into each other and growled angrily. They began to disperse. They drifted further apart ... And then, I was pulled back to the present. "Haa... haaa... whoah! Haaa!" The Demons were still standing, clustered together, just as I had seen at the start of my vision. ''I really can see the future. And a whole five seconds too!'' Sure, it drained my Energy Level considerably, but this was still amazing. It gave me the upper hand in this confrontation. "I wonder what else I can do!" I mused, a confident grin on my face. * * * [A/N] Looks like our boy is currently on the rise. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 30: Period Of Grace [Pt 2]

Chapter 30: Period Of Grace [Pt 2]

[12:19 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] I had tried out both and , and now . So far, the experiences I was having with these Skills were beyond amazing. They were thrilling. But I wasn''t done yet. ''I''ve been saving the best for thest, and now it''s finally time to use it.'' A broad grin formed on my face as I looked at the glowing orb hovering above my palm. "...Rock." I was excited to see all it could do, considering it''s new and improved perks. [Item Information] Name: Energy Rock (Upgradeable) Special Effect: Always Returns to User. Floats on User''s fingertips. Can be controlled by the User through a mental link. Combat Ability: +3 Energy Level: +2 Durability: Infinite [End Of Information] ''Hehe... let''s do this!'' I chuckled, adrenaline coursing through my veins. The demons were already starting to spread out, making it the perfect moment to eliminate them one by one. With a quick assessment of the situation, I honed in on my first target. "I''m curious about how this really works." I focused on my targets, ready tounch my Energy Rock. ''Will it incorporate my current Combat Ability to the mix when dealing damage, since I''m linked to it, or will it''s base Combat Ability and Energy Level be the only thing it''ll exert if I just control it?'' These questions swirled in my mind, and the only way to find out was to take the first step. "I''ll tryunching it with my hands first, and then, for the second attempt, I''ll control it psychically." This way, I could observe the difference in damage and refine my technique. ''Let''s begin!'' ~WHOOOMMM!!~ It felt like the air parted as I propelled the Energy Rock towards an unsuspecting demon. Like a swift streak of brilliant blue light, the rock struck its head in a fraction of a second. ~BAM!~ The head flew off, and the Energy Rock tore through its skull, smashing into the building behind it, all in an instant. ~BOOOOMMM!~ ''A-ah! That was too much!'' Wincing a little, I ground my teeth. The excessive damage had registered not only in my mind but also in the minds of my enemies. Panicked, the demons frantically scanned their surroundings to locate the source of the attack. Unfortunately for me, I was still recovering from the powerful blow I had dealt and couldn''tpletely hide away in time. As a result, I was found. "GRAAAKKKKK!!!" Their bellowing cries echoed through the air, creating an uproar. ''Shit! They''ll make too much noise, and more will be drawn here in no time.'' I had to silence them... and fast! ''It''s time for my second experiment with the Energy Rock.'' Swiftly, I controlled the glowing rock with my mind, feeling it as an extension of myself. It was as if I held it close, directing it wherever I pleased with unparalleled precision. The control... the power... everything felt entirely natural. ''Haa...'' My wide grin intensified as I watched the Demons close in on me. ''I''ve got this!'' ~WHOOOOMMM!!!~ The Energy Rock surged forward, a bolt of azure lightning, targeting the approaching group. The newfound connection with it was electrifying, filling me with raw power. Like a speeding bullet, it struck the demons'' heads, each impact sending them tumbling away from their decapitated bodies before homing in on the next. One by one, they fell until the final demon crumbled mere meters from my position. In the end, they had all been utterly defenseless against me, or rather, against my formidable weapon. "Excellent job," I congratted the spherical orb as it returned to me. The monsters'' blood dripped from its sleek surface, with any traces left on it incinerated by its radiant energy. The test run had been a resounding sess. ''It seems even more Demons are on their way here.'' I observed smiling, changing my position to a more secure hiding ce. '' and are now back online. My Energy has somewhat been restored as well.'' I noted, assessing the group that had gathered nearby. They would be ideal subjects for my next endeavor. ''I just need to discover ways to synergize my skills with the Energy Rock''s attacks,'' I contemted, a cunning gleam in my eyes as I chuckled to myself. ''I''ll make sure to use everything at my disposal.'' With determination, I hoped that in the process, I could level up further. ******** [12:56 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] It was disappointing that I hadn''t managed to level up even a bit, but the experience had imparted a wealth of knowledge about my newfound abilities. Now, I could effortlesslymand the Energy Rock with a much greater degree of fluidity than before. In addition, I had learned to harness the power of inbination with it. Coupled with the assistance of , I could predict the enemy''s every move, their attacks, and precisely where they''d position themselves. allowed me to move faster and achieve more in the heat of battle. Thanks to my ne, I could maintain my energy levels, ensuring I wouldn''t run out as long as I alternated between my skills. "It all went well, which makes it kind of a shame..." As I surveyed my surroundings, I realized there was no longer any need to hide or proceed with caution. "Seems there are no more demons in sight." I was thest one standing. This can''t be right. I was certain there would be some special reward for hunting and defeating demons.'' Despite my expectations, there had been no system notification confirming this suspicion since I began hunting. Now, there was an eerie quiet with no demons left nearby. ''Maybe I should patrol a little. If I use and , I should be able to cover more ground while searching for potential targets.'' A pang of apprehension tugged at my chest, knowing I might have to venture farther from my base. ''But it''ll be worth it.'' ******* [1:09 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "Haa... I can''t believe this." By now, I had scoured my block thoroughly, ensuring I didn''t stray too far from theforting familiarity of my surroundings. To my surprise, I hadn''t encountered a single demon or any signs of their malevolent presence. This left me with just one option¡ªthe only ce where I was absolutely certain demons existed. "To think I''de back here." A wry smile crept onto my lips as I gazed at the imposing structure looming before me. "The hotel." A shiver of dread and foreboding coursed through me as I took my first cautious step toward the entrance. No demons were immediately visible, but a lingering unease in my chest warned me that I was on the cusp of entering an infested area. Nheless, something deep within urged me onward. Was it instinct? Or perhaps curiosity? I couldn''t be certain, but itpelled me to face my fear and reach for the door before me. And as soon as I touched it... [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {You have found the Special Event Area for your Zone, and as such, you will now be given a Special Mission to execute. Should you seed, you will be awarded a Special Reward.} ~Special Mission ~ [Yes] [No] "Haa... haha... hahaha..." The System had to be kidding me with this. Aftering this far, did it genuinely believe I would turn back now? "It''s weird that it chose this particr location, but I''m relieved there''s indeed a Special Event." I had no intention of missing out. Extending my fingers to tap the [Yes] icon, my eyes widened with exhration, and an eager smile instantly graced my lips. With my heart racing and several deep breaths, I pushed the door open, ready to embrace the challenges thaty ahead. "Here I go." * * * [A/N] Anyone getting bad vibes about this ce? Is it just me? Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 31: The Special Event

Chapter 31: The Special Event

[1:13 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] ~Special Event: ~ The System Icon buzzed in my mind as I entered the rundown hotel, its incessant hum an eerie backdrop to the destion. A cold gust of wind swept through the empty lobby, making me shiver, as though the very building itself recoiled at my intrusion. The air reeked of decay, mixed with a sickly sweet scent that had to be the smell of demons, a noxious perfume of malevolence. Shadows danced menacingly on the walls, seeming alive with evil, twisted shapes that whispered dreadful secrets. The thirst for blood hung in the air, making my heart race and my grip tighten on my only weapon. Broken furniturey scattered around, relics of a time long gone, now reduced to splinters of nostalgia. The once grand chandelier, now tarnished and broken, swung overhead, casting eerie moving shadows that seemed to writhe with a sinister intent. Weak sunlight filtered through shattered windows, casting a sickly glow on twisted figures strewn across the floor, their contorted forms a testament to the horrors that had unfolded here. I scanned the area, expecting demons at every turn, keeping my guard up, my senses on high alert. "" I whispered with bated breath. The power of surged through me, sharpening my senses and heightening my reflexes. A throbbing pulse coursed through my veins, like a coiled serpent ready to strike. I needed every advantage I could muster to win; and also not to die. I took a deep breath, ready to use for a burst of speed that would allow me to strike down demons quickly, before they even had a chance to react. The pressure weighed heavily on me, but I pushed fear aside. There was no room for it in this new world where the battle between humanity and the demonic had be all-consuming. I took a cautious step forward, and the creaking floorboards created a haunting melody in the silence. As I moved forward, excitement mounted within me. The future was uncertain, obscured by malevolent energy in the air, yet I couldn''t wait. Each step brought me closer to the heart of darkness, and the bloodlust in the building grew stronger. I felt eyes on me, unseen malevolent gazes tracking my every move ''They''reing!'' I grinned and whispered, "." Energy surged through my veins, and I prepared my legs to move. "." With all my preparations made, and the clock ticking, I officially weed myself to the Special Event. "You''re up first... ''Rock''." ~WHUUUUUUUUMMMMMMMM!!!!~ Sending my projectile hurtling in one of the many regions I sensed an ominous presence, I instantly heard a loud sound of impact. ~BAM!~ ... And then, even more! ~WHAM!~ ~BOOM!~ The Energy Rock bounced around like a vengeful spirit, causing as much havoc and damage as it could in the short window of opportunity that was presented to me. Because, after that... "KRRRRRIIIIIAAAAAAAAAARRRRGHHHHHHHH!!!!" ... The true challenge emerged. ~WHOOOOSSSHHHH!!!~ As the demons lunged out from the shadows, their grotesque forms contorted in unnatural ways, I felt a chill run down my spine. Their sharp ws and hungry jaws were deadly, a terrifying disy of savagery. There was an intense ferocity in their eyes, a hunger unlike anything I had encountered before. "They look the same as the ones outside, but... something''s different." I quickly realized this as I observed their quick movement and bloodthirsty demeanor. These demons had a palpable menace about them, their malevolence etched into every sinew of their otherworldly forms. Reacting instantly, I summoned the energy within me, channeling it into my hand, where my Rock had returned. The pulsating Energy Rock, my only weapon in this barren world, crackled with power as I unleashed a barrage of shots, each one an explosion of light and fury. With precision, I directed the energy projectiles toward the encroaching demons, ensuring they met their end before reaching me. The bullet-like Rock obeyed mymands and sent them hurtling back, though the attacks seemed nowhere near enough to take them down, even with a couple of hits. Unfortunately, a few demons broke through the ranks held at bay by my Energy Rock and closed in with rming speed, their sinister intent clear. ''Looks like I''ll have to fight!'' I thought, determined to protect myself against this relentless horde. Thanks to , my heightened senses allowed me to discern the demons in meticulous detail. I could see the malevolent gleam in their eyes as they lunged, their bodies contorting with demonic grace. With , I predicted their strikes, evading and countering their every move with the ease of a seasoned fighter. With a burst of speed granted by , I danced among the demon horde, my body a blur of motion. Their ws swiped through empty air as I gracefully sidestepped their attacks, striking back with swift and precise movements. Each blownded with a resounding impact, driving the demons back with a mix of fear and pain. The Energy Rock, returning to my hand, zed with radiance, illuminating the grim surroundings with an otherworldly glow. "Die!" I roared, thrusting the rock straight into a Demon in front of me, using both my strength and the spiraling ball of energy hovering above my palm. ~BOOOOOOOOMMMM!!!~ The explosion sent shockwaves through the room, casting demons aside like broken dolls. With no time to dwell on the devastation I caused, I leaped backward, creating distance from the advancing demons. With unwavering focus, I guided the energy projectiles toward those daring to approach, and small explosions erupted as they found their marks, tearing through demonic flesh mercilessly. The room became a battlefield. Blood stained the ground in dark, twisted patterns, and demons dwindled under my unyielding assault. However, for every demon I dispatched from afar with my Energy Rock, more closed in on me, their insatiable bloodlust driving them to madness. With fierce determination, I seamlessly shifted from ranged attacks to close-quartersbat. My body moved with preternatural speed and agility, striking with lethal precision. Each punch, each kick, was delivered with the force of my unwavering will to survive. "Die!" I yelled, my voice echoing through the hotel''s deste corridors. The battle raged on, the sh of steel against flesh and bone mingling with the anguished cries of demons. "Die!" The hotel''s walls reverberated with the sounds of violence, a grim symphony that drowned out all other thoughts. "Die!" With each passing moment, I grew more attuned to the battle''s rhythm, anticipating the demons'' moves before they happened. "DIEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!" I roared as the Energy Rock in my hand exploded with power, sending another demon to oblivion. BOOOOOOMMMM! Time seemed to warp as the battle raged, the line between seconds and hours blurring into a whirlwind of chaos. Yet, through sheer willpower and my honed skills, I persevered. One by one, the demons sumbed to my relentless assault. Until finally... "Haaa... I did it." ... Thest of them crumbled into lifeless heaps. [2:31 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 32: Return To The Suite

Chapter 32: Return To The Suite

[2:32 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] As I ascended the hotel stairs, each step echoed with the memory of the demon horde I''d left behind¡ªa grotesque tableau of violence that still haunted my thoughts. The scent of scorched earth and sulfur lingered in the air, a grim reminder of the battle''s ferocity. The atmosphere still hummed with the lingering energy of violence, but for now, the immediate threat had subsided. ''I guess there must still be a lot more, considering I haven''t gotten a single System Notification aboutpleting the Special Event,'' I mused aloud, my voice echoing softly in the deserted hallway. The absence of those notifications gnawed at my confidence. It puzzled me further that I hadn''t leveled up, even though the demons I faced were far more formidable than any I had encountered thus far. The battle had been grueling, pushing my abilities to their limits, and yet, the rewards I expected remained elusive. ''I feel like I''m close to Leveling Up, though. Maybe just a little more.'' As I reached the first floor, I found myself in an empty hallway, bathed in the faint glow of dim sunlight seeping through cracked windows. It was a stark contrast to the chaos below, the quietude of the corridor amplifying the unease that had settled in my bones. Shadows clung to the walls like whispers, hinting at the horrors thaty concealed within the darkness. Approaching the suite that had once been my refuge, I felt a mix of fear and familiarity. Unwanted memories resurfaced of the people who had tormented me within these very walls. The pain and desperation of my escape remained vivid, a reminder of human cruelty. ''Lisa. Jake. All of them...'' My gaze slowly moved in the direction of a crooked, slightly open door. There was no way I could forget it. This was none other than my former suit; a haven turned hell for me. "I should check, just to be sure," I thought, finally addressing the gnawing suspicion that had haunted me since I saw the Leaderboards. It was time to settle it once and for all. Pushing open the door, a pungent smell assaulted my senses, mingling with the stagnant air. The stench of decay wafted through the suite, a putrid miasma that tainted the atmosphere. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what I was about to witness. The suite stretched out before me, a haunting tableau of horror. Puddles of blood stained the floor, leading to a single open door. Each droplet seemed to echo with the suffering, pain and death that had taken ce within these walls. I hesitated for a moment, the weight of the past bearing down upon me. With a resolute heart, I stepped forward, my footsteps muffled by the blood-soaked carpet. Pushing myself through the weing gates of despair, I was met with a sight that sent bile rising in my throat. The room resembled a house of horrors, a gruesome scene of death. Body parts, decayed and disfigured beyond recognition, littered the room haphazardly. The stench of death hung thick in the air, a grotesque symphony of decay. Dark, dried blood coated the walls and floor, a gruesome testimony to the horrors that had unfolded within these walls. The ce reeked of decaying flesh and the metallic scent of blood. "This is..." I stammered, my overwhelming emotions dampened by my Title, but I couldn''t decide what to feel. ''They must have suffered so much before dying.'' The thought strangely gave me some satisfaction, but the more I imagined the horror, the more I shuddered. It was overwhelming. "More importantly, there''s little I can do here." At this point, it was nearly impossible to distinguish the carnage or determine whose corpse was whose. Everything was too mangled and bloody. "I can''t even tell if Lisa survived this or not." I sighed and turned away from the gruesome sight, unable to bear it any longer. ''This is worrying, though...'' As I left the room of horror, the image of the mangled corpses stayed with me, and a wave of anxiety washed over me. The realization weighed heavily on my heart: I couldn''t confirm whether she had met a gruesome end at the hands of the monsters or had somehow survived. ''What about her Currency? Didn''t I receive 500, 100 per person?'' Unfortunately, it didn''t take me very long to find a hole even in my current line of reasoning The System never specified whose Currencies they were. It only said that the five Users had me as theirst contact before death, leaving room for doubt. ''I could have interacted with others before they died.'' blurred everything, making it feel like a dream. I didn''t remember every detail, so maybe I had encountered another human before their demise. ''Shit! Then maybe she really... no, am I stretching things too far?'' I questioned myself. Which was more likely? "How could she have escaped in the first ce? It''s highly improbable." Yes. I was most likely mistaken about the Lisa in the Leaderboard. ''Maybe I should just¡ª'' Lost in my thoughts, I momentarily lowered my guard, unaware of the lurking danger in the shadows. [SYSTEM WARNING] ''Huh...?!'' And then, without warning, the silence of the hallway shattered. ~WHOOSSSHHH!~ A demonic figure, concealed in the darkness, lunged at me with unhinged fury. Its twisted form surged forward, ws outstretched, hungering for blood. The air crackled with malevolence as time seemed to slow, the scene unfolding in agonizing suspense. "A-ah..." I watched it approach, my body frozen, every hair on my skin standing on end. ''I messed up!'' I thought in a terrified frenzy. Panic gripped me as I realized I''d let my guard down, and my mind raced to find a way out of this deadly encounter. * * * [IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT] Special appreciation to those who have been supporting this book. Honestly, you''re all the best! Please continue to support my book by sending Gifts, Golden Tickets, Power Stones, and Comments. It honestly goes a long way to motivate me, and I''ll release more chapters if you do so. It also helps with the book''s performance on Webnovel. So please... help this Author out. Every effort counts. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 33: Close Call

Chapter 33: Close Call

[2:39 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] ~WHOOOSSSHH!!!~ My senses, which had been clouded by self-reflection, jolted awake as my instincts took over. Adrenaline rushed through my veins, sharpening my reactions. With a burst of energy, I instinctively leaped backward, just barely dodging the demon''s sharp ws. ~FWISH!~ The demon''s attack narrowly missed me, leaving me on the edge of danger. Suspense hung heavy in the air, the echo of the near-miss vibrating within me. Time seemed to freeze as our eyes locked, the intensity of our gaze mirroring the deadly dance that had just begun. ''Fuck! I let my guard down again!'' In that brief moment, the hallway became a battlefield for survival. Shadowy figures of even more demons swirled around us, their eerie dance casting ominous shapes on the walls. [SYSTEM WARNING] The tension crackled in the air, as if the hotel itself held its breath, eager to see how this showdown between predators and prey would unfold. ''I''m surrounded!'' A bead of sweat rolled down my forehead as I assessed the situation, my mind racing to devise a n. Unlike on the ground floor, where I could step back to create more distance between me and the enemies, they were everywhere now. ''The space is cramped here. I won''t have much room to maneuver.'' The same applied to the demons, giving them a disadvantage too. We were still in the suite, and the entrance was already blocked by more emerging demons. Escaping wasn''t even in the cards for me. I was well and truly screwed. Their numbers kept growing, making the room increasingly suffocating for all of us. But I was the one at the greatest disadvantage. After all, I was just one person, and they numbered nearly fifty, maybe more. As the seconds ticked by, my heart pounded in my chest, and I knew that this fight would be a test of not only my physical abilities but also my wit and determination. With every breath, I steeled myself for the battle ahead. ~VWUUUM~ The Energy Rock in my grasp hummed at that moment, as if telling me I wasn''t alone. ''Haa... thanks, buddy!'' "GRRRRRRRR..." The Demons'' bloodshot eyes gleamed with sinister hunger, their twisted forms radiating a palpable aura of violence. I could practically taste their bloodlust, it kept driving them forward with relentless ferocity. Suspense gripped my every nerve as I braced myself, ready to confront the looming threat. "This one''s gonna be tough..." I activated , and a surge of energy coursed through me, doubling my speed. "GRAAARRRRHHHHHH!!!" The Demons lunged toward me, ws and fangs ready to rip me apart. But I moved with lightning-fast reflexes, narrowly dodging their attacks. With each step, the world blurred around me, making it hard for the demons to keep up with my enhanced agility. To get a better grip on my surroundings, I tapped into . Suddenly, everything became crystal clear. I could see the demons closing in, their positions and movements etched in my mind. Time seemed to slow down, giving me the advantage I needed. With my heightened perception, I could anticipate the demons'' every move. Their shes and lunges became predictable, giving me precious moments to counter. I pivoted on my heel, my body in perfect sync with my instincts. A demon leaped at me from the left, ws slicing through the air. I ducked and spun, delivering a powerful roundhouse kick to its side. My blow sent the demon sprawling across the room, crashing into the ornate furniture. As the horde closed in, I activated , allowing me to glimpse the immediate future. I had to be cautious, though, as I needed to conserve my Energy Levels. So, I limited my sight to just a second or two ahead. ''Any more, and I''ll run out too quickly!'' I saw shes of whaty ahead, granting me a strategic edge. I visualized the path I needed to take, gracefully dodging each demon''s attack. "Haaa! I see now!" Their efforts were futile against my heightened awareness. With a quick flick of my wrist, I sent the energy rock soaring toward a group of demons at the far end of the suite. It zipped through the air, guided by my thoughts, and crashed into the nearest demon, exploding in a brilliant burst of energy. The shockwave sent the surrounding demons flying, their bodies crashing into the walls. ~BOOOOOMMM!~ This strategy seemed sustainable for now, but¡­ ''I have to be mindful of my Energy Level.'' Using these Skills drained my reserves significantly, and I couldn''t risk exhausting myself too quickly. I concentrated on using my skills sparingly, relying more on my physical prowess to hold my ground. If need be, I might have to allocate more Stat Points to improve my Combat Ability. "I''m barely hanging in there. It''s a miracle none of them have touched me yet!" I watched as the Demons regrouped, their snarls filling the air. It gave me a brief moment to catch my breath and recharge my Energy Levels. They charged at me once again, but this time, I was ready, thanks to . ~WHOOSSSHH!~ I sidestepped their lunges, deflected their attacks, and delivered precise, powerful blows. Each strike connected, whittling down their numbers. Time blurred as the battle raged on. My heart pounded in my chest, and sweat poured from my brow. My energy was dwindling, but I refused to give in. I summoned every ounce of strength, pushing my body to its limits. Every move, every choice, was a step closer to either victory or defeat in this life-or-death struggle. With a final surge of determination, I hurled myself into the midst of the remaining demons. My fists and feet moved so quickly they became a blur as I struck with relentless fury. Each blow was apanied by the crackling energy of the Rock. The demons fell one by one, their bodies littering the floor. "Haa... finally..." As thest demon crumbled at my feet, the suite fell into silence. I stood there, breathing heavily, drenched in demon blood and sweat. My energy reserves werepletely drained, but I had emerged victorious. "Haha! Absolutely!" Now at Level 11, my near-death struggle felt like a well-earned achievement. I stood among the fading bodies of the defeated demons, their grotesque forms vanishing into nothingness. The room was quiet once more, except for the echoes of mybored breaths As I surveyed the aftermath of the battle and felt the adrenaline leaving my body, I once again reflected on my mistakes. ''I need to stay focused. I can''t afford to be caught off guard again.'' However, the more I thought about this entire ordeal, the more it resembled a twisted version of the tower climbs one would find in games. Each floor brought a fresh wave of enemies, each stronger and more menacing than thest. ''That would exin why the System hasn''t given me the satisfaction of a CLEAR message¡­'' It could only mean one thing: I had to keep ascending, one floor at a time, until I reached the very top. My gaze shifted upwards, blocked by the ceiling, but my thoughts were on the penthouse that loomed above me. It seemed to exude a malevolent aura, a beacon of darkness at the summit of this cursed hotel. If there was a Boss, it would most likely be waiting for me there. "I should brace myself as I climb..." The real challengey on the upper floors. But I couldn''t let doubt or fear cloud my mind. I hade too far to turn back now. With each battle, I was honing my skills and adapting to the demonic onught. "Alright, then..." My energy reserves were slowly replenishing, and my determination burned brighter than ever As I took a deep breath, I silently pledged to myself. I would face the challenges ahead head-on. I would push myself to new limits, both physically and mentally. I would rely on my skills, my instincts, and the energy rock, my steadfastpanion, to conquer whatever horrors awaited me. "And I''m damn well going to clear this Special Event!" * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 34: The Penthouse Boss [Pt 1]

Chapter 34: The Penthouse Boss [Pt 1]

[2:51 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] I climbed the hotel''s floors, my steps determined and focused. As I went up, the demons I faced became tougher, a testament to how challenging the uing battles would be. Each floor turned into a battleground, a ce to test my skills and determination. With each encounter, I unleashed the full extent of my abilities. I evaded their relentless assaults with the agility granted by , my movements a blur as I danced between their strikes. The power of allowed me to anticipate their attacks, granting me precious seconds to counter with swift and precise strikes. On each floor, I faced different variants of demons. Some were huge, covered in bony spines, their roars shaking the building''s foundations. Others were quick and agile, moving through the air unnaturally fast, their sharp ws aiming to pierce my flesh. But I didn''t give up. I fought with determination, using my energy rock andbat skills. Each victory filled me with satisfaction, a sense of growth and progress that propelled me forward. As I went higher, the battles became even tougher. The demons got stronger, their attacks more ferocious. But I met their challenges with resolve, my strikes filled with the power I had umted through leveling up. And then, while battling demons on the fifth floor, a notification appeared: The realization washed over me, a clear affirmation of my progress and growth. I had reached Level 12, a testament to my determination and perseverance. Emboldened by this newfound strength, I pressed on, my steps quickening as I approached the penthouse. The demons on the subsequent floors became even more vicious, their presence a testament to the approaching confrontation with the Boss. With each battle, I channeled my abilities, sharpened through many fights. My movements became precise, and the Energy Rock boosted my strikes. Each victory fueled my determination to face the ultimate showdown. Finally, after a challenging climb, I stood before the penthouse doors, the peak of my journey. I took a deep breath, my heart pounding, ready to confront the Boss inside. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 12 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+3), (+12) - Stat Points: 26 - Currency: 1,250 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. ******** [6:39 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] As the penthouse doors swung open, I entered cautiously, scanning the room. The evening sun cast a warm, golden glow through therge windows, bathing the penthouse in a soft, ethereal light. Shadows danced and swayed along the walls, lending an air of mystery to the space. But amidst the gentle twilight, there, in the center of the room, stood the epitome of darkness and malevolence. My breath caught in my throat as I beheld its grotesque form. The Boss, a towering monstrosity, loomed before me, casting a grotesque shadow across the penthouse. Its repulsive form defied all semnce of beauty or grace. Its bloated physique filled the room, stretching its taut, pockmarked skin to its limits. Rolls of fat, mottled with blemishes, clung to its immense frame, glistening with an oily sheen. The beast''s skin appeared sickly, discolored patches marring its surface like a macabre canvas of decay. Pustules and boils dotted its flesh, erupting with putrid secretions that trickled down its distended form. Sinewy veins pulsed beneath the surface, a grotesquework of life force sustaining this abomination. Its limbs were thick and swollen with grotesque power. Bulging muscles strained against the constraints of its distended form, rippling with a twisted strength. ws, sharp as daggers and encrusted with filth, extended from its massive hands, poised to rend and tear. The Boss''s face was horrifying, with bloodshot, yellowed eyes seething with malice. Its mouth held rows of jagged teeth, and drool dripped from its fangs like venom from a snake. The air around the boss was thick with an unbearable stench, a putrid miasma that assaulted my senses. The rancid odor of decay and filth permeated the penthouse, clinging to the walls and suffocating the room with its foul presence. It was an olfactory assault, a reminder of the darkness that this creature embodied. This demon radiated power, an aura of menace that sent shivers down my spine. Its immense size and grotesque appearance concealed its formidable strength, making it a daunting challenge for anyone who dared to face it. In that moment, I realized that I was in the presence of something truly monstrous, a creature that defied all logic and reason. [SYSTEM WARNING] "This feels just like the encounter with the Colossal Demon," doubt briefly crossed my mind. How could I possibly defeat such a formidable foe, especially when faced with the horrifying reality of the Boss before me? The boss''s immense strength threatened to shake myposure. But deep down, an unquenchable fire burned. I was determined to ovee this challenge, no matter how daunting. The images of past victories shed before my eyes, serving as a reminder of what was possible. With steely resolve, I locked eyes with the boss, suppressing the unease that threatened to consume me. Its repugnant appearance only fueled my determination. I refused to let revulsion cloud my judgment. This battle was about more than physical appearances¡ªit tested strength, willpower, and perseverance. Gripping the Energy Rock tightly, I centered myself. I hade too far to be deterred by appearances alone. I focused on the skills I had honed, the knowledge that I had leveled up and grown stronger. The Energy Rock pulsed with power in my hand, a reminder of the potential within me. I summoned the courage and tenacity within me, ready to confront this ultimate challenge head-on. And then¡ª "ROAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRR!!!" The boss let out a thunderous roar, the sound filling the room, a chilling reminder of the peril I faced. ~VWUUUUSSSHHH!~ It charged toward me with surprising agility, defying its massive bulk. My instincts kicked in, and ''Keuk!'' I barely avoided its initial strike, leaping away with the speed born from desperation. ~BOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM!!!~ ''What in the¡ª!'' Without giving me time to think, the Boss lunged, growling and shing with its bby hands and sharp ws. Every movement seemed impossible for a creature of its size, and I struggled to stay ahead. ''Shit!'' Its attacks were swift and devastating, capable of obliterating anything in their path. I dodged and weaved, using to evade the boss''s relentless assault. I refused to be overwhelmed. Channeling , I analyzed the Boss''s movements, searching for weaknesses in its imprable defense. With each strike, I avoided hits just in time and hurled the Energy Rock toward the Boss. My heart pounded with each attempt, but hope fueled my determination ... Unfortunately, it didn''t help. The boss''s defense seemed imprable; the rock bounced harmlessly off its hide. Frustration surged within me, but I pushed it aside. '' I can''t afford to lose focus.'' Adrenaline coursed through my veins as I devised a new strategy. I summoned every ounce of my strength and skill,unching a relentless assault. Blow after blow, I targeted what I believed were the Boss''s weak points with unwavering precision. I channeled my Energy Levels into the Energy Rock''s power, amplifying my attacks. But the boss''s resilience appeared boundless. It endured my onught, striking back with bone-crushing force. Everything seemed hopeless. ''Damn it...'' It was clear to me at that point. I had hit a wall. The realization that my greatest efforts might not be enough weighed heavy on my shoulders. Yet, I couldn''t give up; the fate of everything I held dear depended on my ability to find a way to break through this seemingly invincible foe. * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 35: The Penthouse Boss [Pt 2]

Chapter 35: The Penthouse Boss [Pt 2]

[6:45 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] ''I¡­ I can''t defeat it. At least, not in this state!'' I stood before the formidable boss, well aware of my current limitations. Determination surged within me, and I knew I had to make a quick decision. ''Looks like there''s no other way...'' I had to use my Stat Points to boost mybat skills. I had originally nned to save them for something else, but all my ns would crumble if I failed here. This was my only option, at this point. "Status Window." [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 12 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 2/2 (+3), (+12) - Stat Points: 26 - Currency: 1,250 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Let''s put six in, just to be safe." I could manage my Energy levels for now. As long as I avoided getting hit by the boss, I''d stay alive. But what truly mattered at this point was my Combat ability. "Spend Six Stat Points on Combat Ability." With a surge of power, I allocated the points to mybat skills, feeling the newfound energy course through my veins. It invigorated me, igniting a fire within. "Ah, that''s much better!" A wide grin spread across my face as I stared at the boss with fierce determination. "Let''s do this!" With renewed resolve, I lunged at the boss, my movements swift and precise. My body felt lighter than ever, and everything seemed to slow down thanks to the boost to and caused by my upgrade. "Heh!" The boss recoiled, momentarily taken aback by my sudden surge in abilities. I closed the distance in a sh. However... ''H-huh? What''s going on?!'' My moment of triumph was short-lived. ''N-no! has timed out!'' My eyes widened as I saw the Boss''s satisfied expression. ''This is bad! This is¡ª!'' ~WHOOOOSSSSHHHH!~ The boss retaliated with a devastating blow, too fast for my current senses to fullyprehend, thanks to wearing off at that exact moment. Its force threatened to snuff out my life in an instant. ''S-shit!'' But just as despair and death began to grip me, luck intervened. ~SHING!~ The ''Defense Ring'' I equipped at thest minute before approaching the Boss activated in a brilliant burst of energy. A protective barrier instantly materialized around me, shielding me from the full impact of the attack. ~WHAM!~ The attack exerted enough force to send me flying back, despite not causing any damage. However, distance was what I wanted in the first ce, so I was grateful. With the gap between me and the boss widening even further, the Defense Ring finally shattered into fragments as the barrier dissipated, its purpose fulfilled. ''I can''t believe I had to use the item here. Damn¡­'' Stunned yet grateful, I smiled a little. I hade dangerously close to death. Just one mistake and everything I had worked for all day would have ended. It was scary, a stark reminder of the dangerous path I had chosen to walk. Death was one thing, but losing everything I had worked so hard for... I couldn''t allow that. "Let''s not get too shaken. This is a good thing." I shrugged off my fears and gave a fearless smile instead. Why? ''This just made me realize something interesting.'' Since my Defense Ring had worked, it meant the boss''s Combat Ability wasn''t more than twice mine. Considering how I felt faster than it with , which doubled my speed, I didn''t think its Combat Ability was exactly twice mine. ''As long as I use , along with , it won''t be able to stop me!'' A smile of realization tugged at my lips. The boss, though formidable, had its limits. "Hahaha!" It was not invincible. "Why don''t we begin round two?!" "ROAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRR!!!!!" The terrifying howl of the Boss filled the room, causing everything to vibrate, but I was no longer intimidated. As I faced the formidable boss, my heart pounded with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. With a deep breath, I activated my , feeling a surge of energy coursing through my veins. In an instant, my speed doubled, propelling me into a blur of motion. The world around me transformed into a chaotic swirl of colors as I darted with unparalleled agility. I evaded the Boss''s colossal fists and razor-sharp ws with uncanny grace, relying on my augmented speed to dance between its relentless attacks. But the fleeting power of demanded caution, and as the seconds ticked away, I knew it was time to activate my second skill, . Instantly, my perception sharpened, and my senses heightened to an extraordinary degree. The details of the room became crystal clear, every sound, every movement magnified. With my heightened awareness, I utilized my Energy Rock as a strategic weapon. I hurled it with precision, the rock sailing through the air with uncanny uracy. It served as a tantalizing distraction, diverting the boss''s attention and creating crucial openings for my own strikes. As the cooldown of and initiated, I relied on my Exclusive Skill, . The world seemed to slow down as I glimpsed into the near future, foreseeing the boss''s next moves. I analyzed its every twitch and shift in weight, nning my counterattacks with skill and logic. With calcted determination, I unleashed an unrelenting assault. Each strike aimed to exploit the Boss''s weaknesses. I weaved in and out of its reach, narrowly avoiding its monstrous ws, and countered with powerful blows that resonated through the room. Meanwhile, the Energy Rock soared through the air, dancing with pinpoint uracy. It found the Boss''s weak points amid the chaos. The Boss''s focus wavered, its defenses momentarily lowered, providing me the perfect chance to deliver a barrage of fierce attacks. ~WHOOOOMMM!!!~ ~VWUUUUSSHHH!!!~ ~BOOOOMMMM!!!~ The battle escted, the sh echoing through the penthouse. My energy dwindled with each passing second, but I remained resolute. The relentless assault of the boss had pushed me to the limits of my strength, yet I refused to yield. As my skills went on cooldown, I relied on my natural abilities, fueled by an unwavering determination to win. My heart pounded in rhythm with the chaos of the battle, and the fire of resolve burned brighter than ever in my eyes. The Boss, relentless in its assault, showed no signs of stopping. Its immense strength and resilience tested my endurance. But I banished doubt from my mind. I honed my senses and struck with unwavering precision. ''It''s not unbeatable! Sooner orter, it will fall. Sooner orter¡­'' Then, in a moment of vulnerability, the boss faltered. A flicker of weakness emerged in the midst of its relentless attack. With a surge of adrenaline, I unleashed a final, decisive blow, channeling every ounce of my remaining strength. Clutching the Energy Rock with all my might, while intensifying my muscles, I propelled myself toward the boss with . "Haaaaaaa!!!" And then... ~BOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!~ An explosion of pure energy rocked the room. The impact reverberated through the room, a shockwave of energy shaking the very foundations of the penthouse. "G-GUuuuuurrrghhhh..." The boss staggered and crumpled to the ground, defeated. For a brief moment, I did nothing but stare at its motionless form. After that¡­ "Haa... yeah. Fuck you. Haha... haaaaa...." A symphony of silence, broken only by my heavy breaths, filled the aftermath as I stood there, victorious and breathless. Sweat mixed with the dust of battle trickled down my brow. The room, once a battleground, now exuded an eerie calmness. The weight of my achievement sank in as I looked around. With a mix of exhaustion and tion, I surveyed the scene. Destruction and chaos had been wrought all around me, but¡ª "I won! Haaaaaaa! I fucking won!" ... And with that, I crumpled on the ground,pletely exhausted. * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 36: Resurgence

Chapter 36: Resurgence

[7:11 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "Status Window..." [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 15 - Life Force: 2/2 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 8/8 (+3), (+12) - Stat Points: 29 - Currency: 1,250 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , - Skills (Exclusive): , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , - Items Equipped: , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Haha... How sweet!" I muttered to myself, my voice trembling with a mix of triumph and trepidation. As Iy amidst the wreckage left by the vanquished boss, my breath ragged and my body adorned with wounds, a sense of aplishment intertwined with unease washed over me. I had emerged victorious, my level soaring to 15 as a testament to my growth and resilience. ''To think I did all of this with only 2 Life Force.'' I marveled at my own tenacity. I wasn''t a gamer or anything like that before the world turned into this, but I was certain even gamers would be impressed by how I managed to survive, fighting so boldly despite everything at stake. ''I can''t believe I beat it. But...'' A gnawing sensation coursed through me. Doubt crept in. "Why isn''t the System saying anything? Hasn''t the mission already ended?" My words hung unanswered in the air. As I contemted the remaining enemy lurking within the depths of the hotel, a sudden disturbance caught my attention. ''Huh? What are those?'' Swiftly rising to my feet, doing my best to assume a cautious stance despite my exhaustion, I stared at the unfolding scene before me. Right in front of me, swirling ck pools radiated nothing but malevolent darkness. The vile liquid from the five respective puddles sputtered and bubbled, causing me to take further steps back. ''It''s just like what I witnessed in the gym back then. What''s happening?! More Demons?!'' As if to respond to my inquiry, figures began to emerge from the murky pools, their ethereal forms blending with the shadows. One emerged from each pool, making it five in total. Initially, they were all concealed in ck goo, rendering them unrecognizable. The tension in the air thickened, and I braced myself for what came next, my heart pounding like a war drum in my chest. They had humanoid forms, though, which puzzled me. ''Humans? Not Demons?'' However, this confusion didn''tst long. Soon, the ck goo solidified on their bodies, and details emerged in a sh, revealing the identities of my new enemies. Well, to be urate, not-so-new enemies. "N-no... no way..." My heart sank as recognition dawned upon me. It was Lisa, Jake, and their three other friends, their pale faces twisted by malevolence. A mix of emotions surged within me as I locked eyes with them¡ªfear, anger, and a fierce determination to protect myself andplete my quest. All these emotions collided and left me nearly paralyzed as I grappled with the rush of feelings now assailing me. Why were they here? No, they were just illusions. The real versions were already dead. Yes... that had to be the case. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {You have defeated the Boss and activated the Hidden Effect of the Special Event. Now, you are confronted with your final foes. Defeat them, and win the Special Event. Lose... and you simply die. Should you seed, you will be awarded a Special Reward.} ~Hidden Event: ~ [END OF INFORMATION] ''But why? Why would they be my next opponents? Is the System messing with me? Is it doing this intentionally?'' It was then, in that harrowing moment, that a realization struck with sickening rity¡ªthe System was toying with me, exploiting my weaknesses, and using my past failures against me. "Damn... damn you..." Anger simmered within, bubbling to the surface as a bitter taste filled my mouth. "DAMN YOU!!!" Fury coursed through my veins, a fiery indignation at the unseen puppeteer manipting the very fabric of this twisted game. ''I have yed my part withoutint. I have been dutiful, leveling up, and doing my best to survive. I haven''t protested much or challenged whoever created this chaotic mess... yet... Yet...!!!'' How dare they y with my emotions, taunting me with apparitions of those who hurt me most? The memories of my time in that room, experiencing nothing but silent hunger and despair, were still etched deep within me. They continued to haunt me, to the point where forgetting them was impossible. Yet, why would the System show them to me again? "Why...?" A seething resentment swelled within me, fueled by a sense of injustice and betrayal. But amidst the anger, a bitter truth settled in my mind. I had no choice but to face this mockery of my past failures head-on. "Fuck..." The System had crafted this cruel scenario, and I still had no choice but to be its pawn. If I wanted to survive, I had to fight and win, even if this situation was frustrating. With gritted teeth and clenched fists, I braced myself for the battle thaty before me. The ck pools vanished, and the five pale bodies of Lisa, Jake, and the three others, began to move. ''I''m still very tired, but if I activate all my Skills at the same time, I should be able to manage.'' The problem was that I couldn''t gauge their power. The System wasn''t telling me how dangerous they were. It didn''t even give its usual System Warning. I was quite literally on my own! As the apparitions closed in, their eyes vacant yet filled with a sinister presence, I pushed aside my anger, harnessing it as fuel for my determination. They may have embodied my past weaknesses, but I had grown stronger. ''This time, the oue will be different.'' Gritting my fist, I prepared myself, readying Energy Rock, which floated above me. "RAAAHHH!!!!" With a battle cry that echoed through the room, Iunched myself away from the fray. ~WHOOOSSSHHH!!!~ The first thing I did was create more distance between me and the five. Before the battle unfolded, I already knew I had to be cautious. The odds were stacked against me, facing five adversaries at once. Each of their movements was eerily synchronized, so I could only expect their attacks to be calcted and relentless. And... ~BOOOOMMMMM!!!~ ... They proved me right! All five of them lunged at me mercilessly, delivering blows that could prove fatal with even the slightestpse in my guard. ''Keuk!'' I relied on my Skills to dodge their strikes, knowing a single hit could be lethal. Urgently, I activated my skill, propelling myself into a flurry of swift movements. The room blurred as I evaded their onught, utilizing my enhanced speed to stay one step ahead. Concurrently, Iunched my Energy Rock with precision, targeting vulnerable spots to inflict damage. As I maintained my distance, a deep sense of caution enveloped me. The trauma from past encounters lingered in my mind, causing a subtle tremor in my body¡ªa subconscious reminder to remain vignt and not underestimate these apparitions'' power. But then, something changed. ''Huh?!'' In an instant, the five enemies altered their tactics. They became faster, stronger, and more relentless than before. ''H-hold on!'' The room seemed to shrink as their assault intensified, closing in from all sides. My skill expired, leaving me without the advantage of heightened speed. The seconds ticked by, amplifying the pressure and my dwindling energy levels. The familiar calmness of also faded away, leaving me disoriented and vulnerable. ''No... no...!!!'' Desperation surged within me as I realized I couldn''t rely on to predict their next moves. My energy reserves were dwindling, limiting my options. Yet, I refused to surrender to panic. I concentrated on survival, evading their strikes and searching for an opening. But fate had other ns. In a cruel twist, I found myself surrounded, trapped within a circle of ruthless adversaries. Their blows rained down from all directions, their precision and coordination offering no escape. Each strikended with bone-shattering force, sending pain coursing through my body. "Guark!!!" Lisa, her eyes devoid of emotion, stepped forward, the same knife she had left behind in the room back then glinting menacingly in her hand. ~SQUELCH!~ With a swift and merciless motion, she drove the de into my side, twisting it with sadistic delight. "GUAAARRRGHHHHH!!!" Agony seared through me, my vision blurring as the world spun. All five of them struck me simultaneously, sending me hurtling away like a worthless piece of garbage. ~BOOOOMMMM!!!~ Crashing into the wall, debris cascaded around me, leaving me defeated. My body felt heavy and unresponsive, each breath aborious effort. Pain radiated through every fiber of my being, a testament to the ruthless nature of my adversaries. [SYSTEM WARNING] {You will soon die¡­} Darkness crept into my consciousness as I sumbed to the weight of defeat. It clung to me like a shroud, a chilling realization settling in. "Am I... going to die here?" I whispered, my voice feeble against the encroaching ckness. In that final moment, bitterness and regret mingled with the pain. I had fought with all my might, but it hadn''t been enough. The taste of failure was bitter on my tongue. ''No... please...'' I couldn''t do anything but think desperately to myself. I begged the universe for mercy. ''I don''t want this. I don''t want to die now! Not now! Not yet!'' Memories of past failures haunted my mind as I slipped into unconsciousness, my body broken and motionless. Each mistake, each missed opportunity, they all danced before my fading senses. ''Anything... anything but death!'' The words echoed in my mind, a final plea as I surrendered to the abyss. [You Have Died] {Interference has been detected. will not be activated} {Exclusive Skill: has been initiated} [Nightmare will nowmence] * * * [A/N] Mikey In The next chapter is going to be bone-chilling epic! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Link: https://discord.gg/yMPNRURZJh Chapter 37 The One Who Dreams 37 The One Who Dreams [You Have Died] {Interference has been detected. will not be activated} {Exclusive Skill: has been initiated} [Nightmare will nowmence] "Haaa..." I exhaled, my breath visible in the chilly dawn air, a ghostly whisper in the awakening world. Where was I? What was happening? I had no answers, only the feeling of being lost in an enigmatic void, like a wanderer in abyrinth of uncertainty. As I rose from the wreckage, an eerie sensation washed over me. The world had turned monochrome, like a dream. Each step I took felt strangely weightless, as though I were treading upon the wisps of a fading memory. Was I dreaming again? A reddish-ck aura surrounded me, pulsing intensely, like the heartbeat of some ancient, dormant power. I felt different, transformed into a character from an epic tale of old, plucked from the annals of time. What was this? What was happening? Questions swirled within me like leaves caught in a perpetual vortex, their answers just out of reach, tantalizing and elusive. A distant noise caught my attention. I saw five familiar yet distorted faces. In this strange ce, they were simply my enemies, archetypes of opposition in the grand narrative unfolding before me. Yes, that was their only identity in my mind. A surge of determination coursed through my veins, overpowering any confusion or doubt. I took a step forward, my resolve unyielding. Whether this was a dream or a twisted manifestation of my subconscious, I refused to let it hinder me. I would fight, ovee, and emerge victorious, my resolve an unbreakable shield against the uncertainties of this surreal realm. "Haaa...." Silhouettes swirled around me, but nothing distracted me from the formidable adversaries before me. The distorted world seemed to yield to my will as I summoned the remnants of my strength. The reddish-ck aura intensified, crackling with restrained energy, like a dormant volcano about to erupt. I truly felt unstoppable, as if I were the embodiment of some ancient prophecy. This world, this ce, this reality¡ªit belonged to me! In this dreamlike realm, only I could see the end. And it was glorious, a destiny written in the stars, waiting for me to im it. I extended my hand,manding the debris around me to tremble and levitate, swirling in a chaotic disy of power, like the wrath of nature itself. With a primal roar echoing through the surrealndscape, I unleashed my newfound might. Debris transformed into lethal projectiles, hurtling toward my adversaries with unstoppable force. The very fabric of this surreal reality quivered as my attacks tore through the monochrome surroundings, like a storm unleashed upon a barrennd. The five enemies, once formidable, were now faced with a force beyond theirprehension. Fear and disbelief contorted their faces as they struggled to defend against the onught. ''Yes...'' I pressed on, relentless and driven by an unwavering determination. ''... Fear me...'' Time seemed to warp, seconds stretching into eternity as I delivered blow after blow, each strike an embodiment of my will to conquer. ''... Suffer...'' Each strike was fueled by a potent mix of rage, resilience, and the desire to transcend my previous limitations. ''... Despair...'' I fought with a ferocity that defied the confines of this dreamlike realm as if I were channeling the rage of a thousand storms. ''... DIE!'' The enemies staggered, their defenses crumbling under the weight of my unleashed power. The dreamlikendscape quivered as if acknowledging my triumph, as if the very universe itself bowed to my prowess. ''No... not like this...'' In an instant, the world reset. I found myself back in my initial position, silhouettes still shing and dancing around me. My opposition, seemingly oblivious to what had transpired, stood before me again. ''... REPEAT!'' With a mere thought, I manipted the very fabric of this reality. The five apparitions before me trembled, sensing the shift in power. Their movements became sluggish, their once confident expressions contorted with fear. They were at the mercy of my newfound abilities, mere pawns in the grand design of this altered existence. I extended my hand, and the penthouse responded, obeying mymand. Furniture, shattered ss, and debris levitated, swirling with otherworldly energy. With a flick of my wrist, I sent the objects hurtling toward my adversaries, each projectile finding its mark with deadly precision. The air crackled with my control, as if my will alone shaped this dreamlike realm. Walls of energy materialized, ensnaring my foes within a cage of my creation, a prison born of my newfound power. Their struggles proved futile, their attacks dissipating against the imprable barrier I had crafted, like insects futilely battering themselves against the walls of fate. I moved with effortless grace, traversing the battlefield like a ghost. My movements flowed with fluidity, each step deliberate and purposeful. The penthouse itself became an extension of my will, shifting and adapting to suit my needs. With a mere wave of my hand, the very floor beneath my enemies erupted, transforming into tendrils of darkness that ensnared them. Their cries of agony echoed as the shadows constricted around their bodies, rendering them powerless. I harnessed the penthouse''s energies, channeling them through my being. Arcs of electricity danced across my fingertips, crackling with raw power. With a sweeping motion, I unleashed bolts of lightning upon my adversaries, each strike delivering a surge of agony. The penthouse walls became mirrors, reflecting the terror-stricken faces of my foes. They bore witness to their own despair, their deepest fears materializing before their eyes. ''Do you see it? My NIGHTMARE?'' The psychological assault,bined with the physical, overwhelmed their senses and broke their spirits. Faint screams seemed to pierce the air, but my hearing had dulled to the point of iprehension. Only one thought consumed me. ''ENEMIES...'' [A/N] 13:43 Below is an image of Mikey actively using One by one, the five adversaries fell to their knees, dissolving into nothingness. Their cries echoed hauntingly through the shattered penthouse, a requiem to their defeat. ''You are all... my enemies.'' The reality I had crafted, a testament to my dominance, consumed them, erasing their existence. As thest remnants of my adversaries vanished, the monochrome world shattered, revealing a blinding light beyond. The surreal veil lifted, and I found myself standing amid the wreckage of the penthouse, the remains of my victory scattered about. "Allocate 9 Stat Points to Life Force." My voice echoed, and the world began to blur once more. It felt like I was waking up. No, I was dreaming. No... not quite... I was... awake this whole time? No, I¡­ Uncertainty lingered, but a resolute fire burned within me. Regardless of the nature of this encounter, I had emerged triumphant. I had ovee my enemies, shattering the chains that bound me. "The work is done..." A gentle whisper escaped my lips as I crumbled to the ground, my strengthpletely drained. The world faded to ck, and I felt every ounce of my consciousness slipping away, erasing the euphoric, ethereal image etched in my mind. It was all reverting... turning nk {Penalty fee has been collected due to the use of Exclusive Skill: } [You will wake up soon] "... I won." * * * [A/N] Below is an image of Mikey actively using I hope you all enjoyed the chapter. Mikey was a menace, You gotta admit. Thanks for reading. See you in the next one! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Chapter 38 Wide Awake 38 Wide Awake [8:01 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] ~DING!~ "Urghh... yeahh...?" I groaned, slowly waking from my slumber, my body weighed down by exhaustion. As I sat up, confusion washed over me. Memories of the intense battle with five apparitions flooded my mind, yet a gap, a void, remained in my memory. I nced across the room, half-expecting to find traces of the fierce confrontation, but to my surprise, there were no enemies in sight. "H-huh...?" Confusion gnawed at me. What had just happened? How had I emerged victorious? I rubbed my temples, trying to piece together the fragmented memories that flickered at the edge of my consciousness. It felt like a dream, but there was a lingering certainty that it had been more than just my imagination at y. Then, it struck me like a lightning bolt. ''The dream... was real?'' The realization hit me with a mix of awe and trepidation. ''Haa... so that''s what happened!'' My Skill, , had been activated, turning my dreams into tangible reality and empowering me to defeat my seemingly insurmountable foes. "So, I won, huh? That was close. Thank goodness I don''t have to start from scratch." Unfortunately, this realization came with a sense of unease. came at a cost, a toll on my Life Force. Each use of the Skill exacted a price, and I couldn''t help but wonder what repercussions awaited me for invoking it a second time. ''How much would be removed? Why am I not dead yet, though? I only have... two... hold on¡­'' Memories from my time in rushed back, and I realized that I had allocated 9 Stat Points for my Life Force. ''S-shit! Does that mean it took all 9 Stat Points aspensation?!'' There was only one way to find out, but at this point, I dreaded even opening my Status Window. Fear and dread paralyzed me, and I could only hope I hadn''t just lost 9 Stat Points just like that. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Congrattions, User! You are among the few who were able toplete the Special Event in the world, and the only one who was able to do so in your Zone.} "Oh, right, the Special Event!" My eyes widened as I saw the System Panel appear before me. Thest time I received rewards, I got some great gifts. I wondered what I would receive this time. It was exciting, honestly. But... ''I don''t feel the same way about the System or these rewards anymore. After they used my trauma against me in that Special Event, I''m just pissed...'' Whoever was behind this scheme had exploited my vulnerabilities, and I found it deeply distasteful. "Unfortunately, I still have to y along for now, to survive." I gritted my teeth, frustrated by my own powerlessness, and made a resolution to improve, to be stronger. ording to the System''s words, it seemed I was one of the few who could achieve what I did, so I had to leverage on that. "I''ll use this as a stepping stone to propel myself even further!" I had to be strong enough not only to survive but also to truly live my life. ''I think that will be my goal for now.'' It might be a selfish goal, but it was all I had left. It was all that truly mattered in this world. ~DING!~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] ~One Treasure Chest (Epic)~ ~1,000 Currency~ ~New Non Exclusive Skill: ~ ~Additional Level Up (5 Levels)~ [END OF INFORMATION] "Hmm... I see." A slow, knowing smile crept onto my face as I gazed at the rewards now in my possession. The Epic Treasure Chest held a tantalizing promise. "I suppose an Epic Treasure Chest might beat a Rare one. Only one way to find out, though." I knew I had to open it, but first, I needed to consider my other rewards. My Currency had increased significantly, a much-needed boon for my journey ahead. The Level-Ups, too, were impressive, likely a result of my hard-fought battles against five different foes. There were no messages in the "Nightmare," so they must have been included in my rewards. ''That means I''m at Level 20 now. Impressive!'' I couldn''t help but feel a sense of aplishment wash over me. Yet, among everything, one thing that intrigued me the most was my newest Non-Exclusive Skill, . Its name held an air of mystery, and I couldn''t wait to uncover its capabilities. On another note, my outfits were already in tatters, a sign that their durability was nearly exhausted. I had to acquire new gear or perhaps merge them for added strength. A better item from the Treasure Chest would be a wee sight too, but all of that could wait. First... "Status Window," I whispered, eager to explore the newfound depths of my abilities. [STATUS WINDOW] - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 20 - Life Force: 5/5 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 8/8 (+3), (+12) - Stat Points: 35 - Currency: 2,250 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , - Skills (Exclusive): , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , , - Items Equipped: , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Seems like drained 6 Stat Points. It''s more than I expected, but considering all the work it did, it was well worth it." Without those points, I might have died. Now that I''m slowly recalling the details, I can see how effortlessly I defeated my foes. A power like this surelyes with great costs. I can only wonder what might have urred if I had no Stat Points to rely on. ''This is why I should always keep Stat Points in reserve,'' I thought to myself. Sitting amidst the remains of the penthouse, I realized that my journey was far from finished. There were still countless challenges, adversaries to conquer, and mysteries to unravel How long would this continue? How much more suffering would I have to endure? Was survival guaranteed? Instead of despair or frustration, an inexplicableughter welled up from within me. "Hehehe...hahaha..." Initially a quiet chuckle, it soon spiraled into a maniacal, uncontrobleughter. The sound echoed through the shattered penthouse, a mad symphony to the uncertainty of my path. "Pfft! Hihihihihihi... kekekeke..." At first, it started as a quiet chuckle, escaping my lips in fits and starts. But as the weight of my journey settled upon me, theughter grew, morphing into a maniacal, uncontroble force. "Hahahahahaha...!!!" It echoed through the deste room, filling the air with a cacophony of madness and release. 13:45 "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...!!!" Theughter consumed me, shaking my entire being. "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...!!!" It was a mix of tion, madness, and defiance. Iughed at the absurdity of my situation, at the countless battles I had fought and the countless more thaty ahead. Iughed at the trials and tribtions that had molded me into something unrecognizable from the person I once was. "...HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!" Tears rolled down my cheeks while theughter persisted, blending with the dust and rubble all around me. The world seemed to crumble in tandem with my sanity, creating a surrealndscape where emotions and destruction merged into a chaotic symphony. Thisughter held a mix of sweet victory and the sting of sacrifice. The world around me blurred, fading into insignificance as myughter became the only sound that mattered. At that moment, I embraced the chaos within me. It was a release, a cleansing expression of the wild spirit burning in my soul. It served as a reminder that, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty, I wouldn''t surrender to despair. I''d rise above it all, harnessing the darkness as my own weapon. As the scene faded, myughter echoed into the abyss, a haunting symphony of determination and madness. I''d confront the challenges ahead, armed with the knowledge that I had be something iprehensible. Theughter faded, leaving a determined silence. I stood there, ready to face whatever awaited me, a twisted grin on my face. "This still feels like a dream, but... I''ve never been more awake." With every heartbeat, I could feel the pulse of my newfound power, a testament to the extraordinary journey thaty ahead. * * * [A/N] Has Mikey begun his descent into madness? Is he the same person we once knew? Or has something changed? We shall see. Thanks for reading. The next chapter will be the final one for the first volume. I can''t wait till we proceed to the next arc. There''ll be quite a good reveal in the next chapter, so anticipate it. Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Chapter 39 The World I Saw 39 The World I Saw [8:30 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] "Now then..." [Item Information] Name: Item Merger (Low Quality) Special Effect: Fuses up to three Items (Common and Rare Grades only) Combat Ability: Durability: One-time Use [End Of Information] {Will You Purchase This Item for 100 Currency?} "Yes," I said with a soft smile, gazing at the glowing System panel in front of me. The transaction went through smoothly, leaving me with only 1,150 Currency at my disposal. I knew I had to be cautious with my spending, especially since I was nearing the time when I would venture into the Tower Of Trials. The impending challenge weighed on my mind, but I couldn''t afford to squander my resources now. Yet, there were essential items I still needed, and that meant using my Currency. Each expenditure felt like a calcted risk, a step closer to either survival or failure in the looming trials. One could even argue that it was an investment to use Currency as much as possible in order to prepare for the dangers ahead, but I couldn''t go as far as splurging myst lifeline in the Tower Of Trials. "I must reserve it for important necessities, like this," I decided. Before me were my Enchanted Wears: a shirt, trousers, and sneakers. They had seen better days, and although they still provided their benefits without issue, it was only a matter of time before they fell apart. It made sense to merge their attributes and create a new item with greater durability to retain their buffing effects. "Merge all three," Imanded, and the Item Merger began its task. Before my eyes, a new item took shape. A brilliant light shimmered, causing me to momentarily close my eyes. I could hear fabric intertwining and feel a vibrating pulse resonating in my ears. Anticipation quickened my heartbeat as I eagerly awaited the oue. "Haa..." The light dimmed, signaling the sessfulpletion of the Item Merge. I eagerly opened my eyes, expecting to see my new and improved item. The result of a significant evolution! ...It was a speedo. "What the fuck?" I eximed in disbelief, staring at the unexpected oue of my careful merging. My mind raced, trying to make sense of how three pieces of sensible clothing had transformed into this seemingly absurd swimwear. It certainly wasn''t what I had in mind for facing the Tower Of Trials. [Item Information] 13:46 Name: Enchanted Speedo (Upgradable) Special Effect: When worn as underwear, this brief grants you its basic functions, but if worn externally (either on the face, or on the crotch, as superheroes do, effects will be doubled for five minutes). It has an auto-clean function. Combat Ability: +15 Durability: Sturdy [End Of Information] "No... no, this can''t be happening. Please, not this," I muttered in disbelief, my voice tinged with frustration. Hadn''t I suffered enough? Hadn''t I endured countless humiliations and degradations? Yet here it was¡ªanother bizarre twist. What was up with the Special Effects of this thing?! "Seriously, why a speedo? I never even asked for underwear! Why did this have to happen?" I had held onto myposure for so long, but this was just too much. Why did the System want me to wear underwear on my face or over my outfit? ''Well, I guess if it grants me more power, I can''tin, but... BUT...!!!'' Did I really have to go this far to gain strength? Was this the price I had to pay? ''Anything for survival, Mikey. Anything for survival.'' I couldn''t forget my goal, could I? ''To be strong enough to survive... and strong enough to live my life.'' That was the pact. If this was the path to make it a reality, then who was I to object? I took a deep breath, trying to push my embarrassment aside. "Let''s check out the other rewards," I said. "Yes." The System instantly responded by revealing the content within. [Treasure Chest Content (Epic)] ~Invisibility Cloak~ [Item Information] Name: Invisibility Cloak Special Effect: Allows the user to turn invisible as long as they use their Energy Levels (Cost: 1 Energy Level every 10 Seconds) Combat Ability: +5 Durability: Sturdy [End Of Information] "Oh? It''s actually pretty good." The Energy Level consumption was quite high, but given how high-end the item was, I didn''t see it as a drawback. ''The kind of people that use these kinds of items are those with high Stat Points and Levels, to begin with.'' I was the one who was being stingy with spending my Stat Points, after all. "It also grants me extra Combat Ability. That''s good." A smile was still etched on my face as I considered thest thing I had to explore. My newest Non-Exclusive Skill! "borate on Skills." [Skills] (Exclusive) : Allows the user to experience future events in the form of a dream. These future events are basically the user''s experience. Trauma could be experienced as a result of this Skill. {Note: User may not take his own life or intentionally try to use this Skill. It will not activate.} : Allows the user to interact with the present/immediate future. Actions taken synchronize with reality, solidifying their effects. {Note: Using this reduces Life Force, so frequent utilization of this Skill is not advised} : Allows the user to see up to five seconds into the future. {Note: Consumes 1 Energy per second of use. 1 Second cool-down limit per each future second seen. (Non-Exclusive) : Doubles User''s usual speed for one minute. {Note: 1 Energy per use. 10 Seconds cooldown) : Heightens User''s senses for one minute. {Note: 1 Energy per use. 10 Seconds cooldown) : Revives a previously living being that the user has killed, making them their minion indefinitely. {Note: Energy consumption will depend on how powerful the minion is. Current limit: 1 minion} [END OF INFORMATION] "No way!" My eyes widened in shock as I grasped the significance of my newly acquired Skill. Out of all my Non-Exclusive Skills, this was by far the most powerful! "Could it be... I can actually bring the dead back to life?" My heart raced with excitement as I contemted the various possibilities. ''Based on the Skill''s nature, it seems the person must be alive, so undead creatures like those apparitions wouldn''t work. Plus, I have to be the one to take their life. I understand¡­'' The crucial factor was Energy consumption. It appeared to be a vital consideration, so I needed to think about enhancing my Energy Level over time. ''The Boss has already disappeared, so I can''t use it on him. I suppose I''ll have to test it on another opponent when the opportunity arises.'' It was disappointing that I could only control one minion at a time, but I had a hunch that this Skill would evolve and allow me tomand more minions in the future. ''Besides, it mentioned my was one minion.'' That was all the confirmation I needed. *********** [9:35 PM, Saturday 6th of May, 2023] I ascended to the roof of the hotel, my footsteps echoing through the deste hallways. As I pushed open the heavy door, I was met with a rush of wind, carrying with it the scent of smoke and decay. The night sky stretched out before me, an abyss of darkness that mirrored the state of the world below. Stepping cautiously to the edge of the roof, I peered at the dystopian scene thaty before me. Buildings stood in ruins, their skeletal frames reaching out like gnarled fingers. Fires flickered in the distance, casting an eerie glow upon the desecratedndscape. Chaos hung heavy in the air, creating an overwhelming sense of despair. Yet, amid the turmoil, a cool breeze brushed my face, ruffling my hair and whispering promises of relief. The sensation brought momentary rity to my mind, dispelling the fog of regret and sorrow that lingered within me. It reminded me that even in dark times, beauty and sce endured. My heart raced with trepidation and anticipation. The unknown stretched ahead, a perilous path. But deep inside, determination burned. I vowed to survive, to forge a way through this nightmarish existence. Standing there, peering into the abyss, I made a solemn promise to myself. No matter the horrors or daunting trials ahead, I''d persist. I''d adapt, evolve, and conquer the overwhelming challenges. The world had sumbed to chaos, but in that moment, my resilience brought sce. As I braced for an uncertain future, conflicting emotions surged within me ¡ª lingering regret and sorrow intertwined with the undeniable thrill of the unknown. With unwavering resolve, I stepped back from the edge, my eyes locked on the horizon. The night was ruthless, but I''d never let it break me. Turning away from the rooftop''s edge, I carried the world''s despair, yet an ember of hope still burned deep within my soul. I was going to see the end. *********** [Meanwhile...] From her hidden perch atop a crumbling building, a young woman peered through binocrs, her eyes locked onto Mikey standing on the hotel''s roof. A broad smile stretched across her face, a mix of admiration and amusement lighting up her features. She observed as he surveyed the dystopian world below, an aura of both regret and determination emanating from him. By her side, a younger boy watched the unfolding scene, his gaze fixed on Mikey. After a moment of shared silence, the boy finally spoke up. "That fight he had earlier was quite a show, wasn''t it?" The girl nodded, her attention still on Mikey. "Indeed, it was. He''s much stronger than he seems." The young man turned to her, curiosity in his eyes. "Do you think it''s time to approach him?" She shook her head gently, her unwavering smile still in ce. "Not just yet. There are matters to resolve, work to be done before we can reunite." With that decision made, she turned away from the binocrs and began her descent from the rooftop. However, the young man remained, his gaze lingering on Mikey as he smiled openly at the world around him. He couldn''t help but wonder about the challenges and triumphs thaty ahead for the young fighter. There was something about Mikey''s determination that resonated with him, a spark of hope in this darkened world. "It seems things are about to get even more interesting..." And as soon as he voiced that thought, he too vanished from sight, leaving Mikey to his solitary vigil, unaware of the enigmatic watchers observing his every move. * * * [End Of Arc 1: The Tutorial Arc] {Arc 2: The Great Expedition Arc will resume shortly.} ~Thanks for reading this far. The journey is just beginning!~ Cheers! Chapter 40 The World Beyond 40 The World Beyond I had a dream. In that dream, I saw a world filled with brilliant light, andscape more vibrant than anything I''d ever seen. It was as if the very essence of beauty had been distilled into this realm, painting the surroundings with colors that surpassed imagination. Sweet scents wafted from the flowers, carried by a gentle breeze that seemed to whisper secrets of the universe. The fragrances mingled, creating an intoxicating scent that embraced every corner of this ethereal ce. It was as if the entire world hade alive, dancing to an ethereal tune. But in an instant, chaos erupted. The paradise that had captivated everyone turned into a nightmarish hellscape. The world, once cherished, crumbled beneath the power of darkness and mes. It was a breathtaking fall from grace, like watching a celestial painting burn. As I watched, I was drawn closer to the source of this conflict. There, I saw a man, cloaked in darkness like the night itself, his robe tattered and concealing his face. An intense aura surrounded him, and he seemed overwhelmed, brought to his knees in despair. Towering monsters loomed above him, seemingly unbeatable, their grotesque forms a stark contrast to the beauty that had existed moments ago. I thought to myself as I watched him, ''He''ll never defeat them. He should stay down.'' Yet, the sound of his gritted teeth and clenched fists hinted at his determination, a spark of defiance that refused to be extinguished. I wasn''t wrong. Slowly, he rose, steadying his trembling knees and gazing defiantly at his adversaries. A once-bright ball of light beside him was now cloaked in darkness, a mix of red and purple hues. It pulsed with an ominous energy, a symbol of his inner turmoil and power. "I''ll destroy you all," the man''s voice echoed, sending shivers through me. "I''ll make sure of it." Power surged from him, enough to overwhelm everything in sight, including me. The very ground quaked beneath the intensity of the sh. I struggled to see more of his story, to witness the oue of this epic battle, but darkness and shadows gradually swallowed everything. Did he win? Did he fulfill his vow to vanquish those monsters and reim what was lost? Could he recover those he had lost at the hands of the monsters? I never found out. The winds knocked me away, and a whirlwind of darkness consumed me until I drifted into silent nothingness. Finally, I awoke. It had all been just a dream. I was only eleven years old at the time, and though the dream left asting impression, it faded from memory in a matter of weeks, like countless others before it. All of them... forgotten, ********** [11:01 PM, Sunday 7th of May, 2023] It was finally time. [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {The 24-hour interval has been exhausted. It is finally time for all the survivors to begin the Tower Of Trials} ''Ascension, huh...?'' Perched atop my hotel rooftop, curiosity stirred within me. I pondered whaty ahead, drawing upon fragmentary memories for hints. Certain details convinced me that our destination extended beyond this world. Although I was unaware of the specifics, a sense of impending discovery settled in me like a promise of the extraordinary. With a shrug of uncertainty, I mused, ''I guess I''ll have to find out, just like the rest of them...'' ~BZZZTTTZZZZZZ~ A sudden buzz enveloped me, catching my attention. In a sh, electric currents materialized nearby, charging the atmosphere. ''I guess it''s started.'' A runic circle appeared beneath me, its ancient symbols glowing with an otherworldly energy. Anticipating what wasing, I stood ready, my heart racing as I braced myself for the impending transition. [SYSTEM NOTICE] {User has been recognized: } ~ Skill will be given to the User for bettermunication~ ~ Title will be given to the User for his achievement~ ~ An additional 500 Currency will be given to the User for his monthly expenses ~ [Have A Wonderful Time] ~FSHUUUUUUU~ The bright light enveloped me, and as I stole one final nce at the world around me, I could see brilliant bursts of light radiating in many directions and locations. All the surges of illumination shot to the sky, and mine was no exception. I could feel my body growing numb, and my consciousness fading as I slowly began to ascend from the ground. I waspletely dumbfounded, unaware of what would happen next. The world blurred into oblivion, leaving me suspended in an infinite void. And from that infinite void, life emerged. "Where am I now?" A voice asked. "What is this ce?" Another chimed in. All around me, I could hear voices. "What''s going on this time?" "I''m scared." "Who are you?" "H-hey, don''te close to me." "S-stay back!" "Just rx... I''m sure things will be exined soon enough." "Um... how long are you going to keep your eyes closed?" I felt a nudge beside me, and it forced me to open my tightly shut eyes. And as soon as I did, a new sight greeted me. ''H-huh..? This is...!!!'' I found myself surrounded by a vast sea of people, stretching out as far as the eye could see. Each person was unique, representing a myriad of races and ethnicities, their diverse features forming a colorful mosaic. Amidst this spectacle, the air crackled with a mix of confusion, awe, and curiosity. The expressions on the faces around me were as diverse as the people themselves. Some wore expressions of shock, wide-eyed and agape, their hands reaching out for support from strangers. Others bore looks of disbelief as if questioning the very reality of their surroundings. Fear etched itself onto the faces of some, clutching their loved ones in search of sce amid the bewildering chaos. Amid all of this, I stood shell-shocked, trying my best to maintain myposure¡ªfortunately achieving it thanks to the effect of my Title. "You look confused too. Seems like we all don''t know what''s happening." The sonorous voice from earlier, most likely belonging to the one who nudged me, echoed beside me. I turned to the speaker, only to be struck speechless by the captivating figure beside me. She was extremely beautiful and her presence felt maic, ''Who... is this?!'' * * * [A/N] I certainly hope this volume reaches, if not surpasses your expectations. It''s going to be considerably longer than the first Arc by a good degree, and it''s going to contain a lot of interactions, action, and mysteries unveiled. So buckle up tight and enjoy the ride! Thanks for reading. Cheers! Chapter 41 A Strange Girl 41 A Strange Girl The girl had a pale face, her skin akin to porcin, and long white hair with hints of pink, resembling the delicate petals of a cherry blossom tree. Her bright pink eyes immediately caught my attention. They seemed to draw me in, making my heart race for no apparent reason, as if they held a secret I was destined to uncover. Even the Title couldn''t calm the rush of emotions I experienced. I wondered who this girl was, as her curious gaze fixed on me with an intensity that felt like it could pierce through my very soul. She wore a ck leather jacket over a crop top and shorts, giving off a tomboyish vibe that contrasted the chaos surrounding us. Unlike the others nearby, who were panicking and fleeing, she remained surprisinglyposed. Her posture was rxed as if she were in control of the turmoil around us. Her gaze, though, was what intrigued me the most. It remained continuously fixed on me, as if there were some hidden secrets written on my face that only she could decipher, leaving me with an unsettling feeling that our meeting was not a mere coincidence. "Um, why are you staring at me?" I finally broke the silence, my voice quivering with a mix of anxiety and curiosity. "Huh? What do you mean?" Her response confused me, her lips curving into a yful smile. Wasn''t she just staring at me? Her reply made it seem like she was pretending not to. "You''re also staring at me, right? I didn''t ask you why, did I?" She asked, smirking. Her eyes sparkled mischievously as continued to stare at me intensely. "W-well, that is..." I struggled to find words. Why was I so flustered? What was happening? Even facing Demons, where every second meant life or death, I had never felt such overwhelming, unfamiliar emotions. I had never fumbled so badly. ''Is she more dangerous than those Demons? Or am I just reacting like this because¡­'' I couldn''t help but wonder. The girl in front of me was undeniably attractive, her appearance was both captivating and stunning. "It''s okay to stare, sleepyhead. Don''t worry... I won''t bite," she said, tapping my shoulder with an empathetic smile. I was puzzled. Why was she calling me sleepyhead? Did she think I was sleeping when we appeared here? I tried to exin, "No, I was just¡ª" "It''s fine," she interrupted, her grin widening and her eyes narrowing, making me feel strangely exhrated. "Well, I''m off now. It''s time to meet a couple of others like you." As she let go of my shoulder and moved away, I felt an unexinable pull towards her. I had to control myself to avoid being overwhelmed by the intense feeling. I didn''t want her to leave, but before I could stop myself, I blurted out, "I doubt you''ll find many who are like me." I immediately regretted saying that. I should have just kept quiet and let her go. Her face showed a hint of surprise before transforming into an alluring smile, making her seem both fascinating and intimidating. "I''m well aware, sleepyhead. You''re quite an interesting boy." "What?" I stammered. "I think it''ll be fun if we meet again. Don''t forget me until then," she said, waving and disappearing into the crowd. "W-wait... what''s your name?" I asked in a hushed voice, not wanting to draw attention to myself. ~Zzt~ A sudden sensation coursed through my head, and I felt a sharp pulsating sting. ~I''ll tell you my name next time... Mikey.~ My eyes widened in shock. ''How did she know my name? The only ones who should have known it were Lisa and her friends, who were all dead.'' A few acquaintances also knew my name, but this girl didn''t seem familiar. Perhaps we had met online, but I couldn''t recall anyone who would recognize my appearance. There was one weirdo I chatted with one time but I''m sure that person had no idea what I looked like. And then, there was the nickname "Sleepyhead." ''I initially thought it was because she thought I was sleeping, but...'' What if she had seen my Status Window? She might have seen my Role, Authority, and even my Skills. ''But when? How?!'' My eyes widened as I recalled how she had been intensely studying me just moments ago. "Damn it! I messed up," I scolded myself. It wasn''t exactly carelessness; I was just utterly bewildered. I had no idea what was happening until it was toote. If her ability to see Status Windows was simr to my , then was there anything I could have done differently? "Fuck!" I cursed again. The fact that she also had telepathy added to the problem. It felt different from Lisa''s telepathy, and she certainly didn''t look like Lisa. Besides, Lisa was most likely dead, and she wouldn''t have interacted with me the way this stranger had. ''This is too confusing. It''s overwhelming,'' I thought, my fear growing. I couldn''t forget what had happened thest time someone knew so much about me. It had ended badly. ''No... I can''t go through that again,'' I told myself firmly. I couldn''t afford to be eliminated so early in this dangerous situation. After all the effort I had put into surviving and my unwavering determination to keep going, there was no way I could return to those desperate times. No way! "No way!" I eximed silently. ''I have to find her and figure out how much she knows.'' If she knew too much... enough to be a threat to me, then... then... I would have no other choice but to¡ª ~DING!~ ~DING~ ~DING~ Pinging sounds resonated suddenly across the vast field, causing a flurry of movement and hushed whispers all around me. Like everyone else, I couldn''t help but look in the direction of the source of the noise. It wasing from above. ''Huh? What, or rather, who is that?'' I wondered. Flying high above all of us was a figure that could only be described as angelic. It had six wings: two veiling its face, two covering its legs, and two allowing it to soar through the sky. Its presence was so glorious and magnificent that it momentarily made me forget about the earlier encounter. "[Greetings, Users. My name is Seraph]," the angel spoke with a melodious voice, the most beautiful I had ever heard. As it did, an eerie silence fell over everyone, enveloping the entire area. "[You are all currently in the Neutral Area, a precursor to the Ground Floor of the Tower Of Trials]." Although I couldn''t see the angel''s face, I assumed it was a female due to the gentle yet mechanical tone of her words, which, despite their mechanical nature, were strangely pleasing to the ear. "[I will now provide some exnations. Please listen carefully.]" In utter silence, we all hung on to her every word, unaware of the challenges and hardships that awaited us in the trials ahead. The enigmatic angel, Seraph, had ushered us into a world filled with mysteries and uncertainties, and as her words washed over us, the sense of wonder and trepidation grew stronger, binding us to a world we had only just begun to fathom. * * * [A/N] Who is this strange girl? What does she want with Mikey, and just how much does she know? And finally... what sort of world awaits the survivors of the Tutorial?! Chapter 42 New World 42 New World Tension hung in the air as we all stared at the strange being hovering above us. Her enormous wings obscured most of her body, but her divine presence was undeniably magnificent. And so, with bated breaths and racing hearts, we listened attentively to her words. "[Upon the conclusion of my address, you will all be transported from the Neutral Zone, and you will appear in random locations within the Ground Floor of the Tower of Trials]." ''The Ground Floor? It rings a bell...'' This whole situation felt oddly familiar. I couldn''t quite put my finger on it, but it seemed like I''d witnessed something like this in my dreams, and it wasn''t a one-time thing. I steadied myself and continued to pay attention to her. "[A total number of 1,234,567 humans have survived the Tutorial and made it here. I extend my congrattions to you all for being among the survivors]." ''What?! Only that many?'' I knew many had be Demons, and only those with the Title were considered for ''Paradise.'' Still, to think that out of Earth''s eight billion people (thest time I checked), just over a million of us remained. ''What in the world...?!'' I didn''t notice it earlier because a million was still quite arge number, and looking at the sea of people around me, it seemed a good number of people had survived. But to think so many people died... ''That''s crazy!'' My mind whirled with the staggering loss of life. I didn''t particrly feel bad about their demise. I mean, it wasn''t like I knew them personally. I was pretty sure nobody would mourn my death in the same situation. ''It''s just unsettling that so many died.'' And I didn''t expect things to suddenly be easier in this new world. "[Levels. Stats. Skills. Titles. Currency. It is assumed that you are all aware of their functions, considering you are all valuable survivors of the Tutorial. None of those will be exined here]." I was certain that not everyone actually understood those things. Even those who did could probably use some rity. Yet, the Seraph glossed over it. That was incredibly hardcore. "[The issue that will be addressed is the Tower Of Trials, as well as the expectations required of you all]." I had already figured out most of my Status Window, so this was probably the thing I needed to know most. What exactly did this involve? The fact that an actual angel, not just a random system notification, was here to convey this information implied that it was extremely important. "[The Tower of Trials has 99 Floors, excluding the Ground Floor, of course. You are all required to clear at least one Floor within a month, else your Tower Pass will expire, and you will be evicted]." What did she mean by ''evicted''? For the purposes of the Trial and this world''s order, I had to assume it meant death. ''So, if we don''t put in the effort and actively strive to survive this time, we''ll simply die. This will be incredibly tough for those who didn''t do much in the Tutorial...'' If it weren''t for the strange suppression that the Seraph probably used to maintain silence, I was sure many would have erupted in understandable panic and fear. The weight of her words had cast a heavy cloud over us all, and the sense of foreboding hung thick in the air. "[The purpose of the Tower Of Trials is to challenge and reward those who are deemed worthy. The ones who refuse to prove their worth are of no use to it. The Tower does not tolerate freeloaders]." My chest tightened, and I narrowed my eyes, steeling my resolve. The Seraph''s stern demeanor only served to fuel my determination. "[The Tower Pass (F1) in your possession grants ess to both the Ground Floor and the First Floor. Should any of you fail to meet your quota, it will be revoked, and you will be evicted. The Ground Floor will serve as a home and training ground for you. Compared to the other Floors wrought with danger, it is rtively safe. A perfect environment for growth, albeit limited.]" ''I see. So we''ll upy the Ground Floor as a permanent residence and we''ll go to work in the upper floors. However, considering the Ground Floor was akin to apany''s property, courtesy of the Tower Of Trials, failure to make progress at work would result in being fired and losing ourpany housing. If I thought of it that way, it made sense. Unfortunately, this was a matter of life and death, so it wasn''t that simple. This system was too cruel. "[Sesses shall be rewarded, failure will be punished. Such is the nature of the Tower Of Trials]." This wasn''t unfamiliar to anyone here; the concept of reward and punishment existed back on Earth too. The problem was the stakes, which were too high, often leading to death. ''... It''s too cruel.'' "[A final word of advice. Beware of the challenges you encounter in the Tower. Not all monsters are Demons. There are natives in the Tower of Trials, particrly on the Ground Floor. Your survival might depend on your interactions with them. Just as sentient beings take on various shapes and forms, so do the natives]." ''Natives? Ah, that does make sense.'' The Seraph mentioned that we would be scattered to various locations and had to survive and thrive for a month. That meant this was a very vast world. If it was this vast, then it was pretty reasonable for other beings to inhabit it. ''People other than Users, huh? I wonder what they''re like...'' In my dreams, I had visions of grotesque beings that I eventually found out were Goblins, Orcs, and even Elves. I wasn''t sure if they were Ground Floor natives or Upper Floor enemies. ''I''ll just have to keep an open mind and stay cautious.'' That was the best I could do, given the circumstances. And if things took a turn for the worst... ''I always have .'' "[It is pointless to ask why and how this happened to you and your world. You need not fill your minds with useless thoughts and worthless spection. Focus on what is expected of you, and that is¡­]" My heart raced as I clenched my fist and red at the Seraph. The moment she uttered those words, a sudden rage surged within me. The one behind the System, this Seraph, who did they think they were to orchestrate all of this? What exactly did they believe our lives were worth? It was a maddening mystery that fueled the fire of determination within me. ''Her tone just turned condescending. Finally showing your true colors, huh?'' With a bitter smile, I maintained my re at the angelic being. At this point, all the allure and glory she possessed meant nothing to me. The Seraph''s grandeur had lost its luster in the face of our grim reality. "[... Struggle and survive with all your might]." In the end, we were nothing more than livestock being led to the ughter. ''But I''ll show you! I''ll prove I''m more!'' My resolve solidified as her words echoed in my mind. I refused to be a mere pawn in this ridiculous game. "[You will have a grace period on the Ground Floor for a month. Use that time to grow stronger and adapt to this world. The First Floor will be essible after that]." A massive circle suddenly appeared beneath me ¨C no, beneath everyone. It covered the entire area where we stood and began to emit a translucent light. The countdown had begun, and the pressure to survive weighed heavily on my shoulders. "[Farewell. And may fortune favor you]." The radiant light enveloped us all, and I felt my consciousness fade once more. Everything around me turned nk, and I sensed myself being transported to a different space. ''Looks like this is it.'' My thoughts echoed as I smiled to myself. [00 Months: 00 Days: 00 Hours] ''... A new beginning!'' * * * [A/N] And so the story really begins!!! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Chapter 43 Settling In [Pt 1] 43 Settling In [Pt 1] [00 Months: 00 Days: 00 Hours] A surge of bright light coursed through me as I finally found solid footing beneath me. In an instant, I felt settled, though the blinding light around me forced my eyes to remain closed. Then, the light faded, gradually giving way to the soft caress of a cool breeze. Itpelled me to open my eyes to the new world around me. "W-whoah..." I stood on a tall hill, with a massive tree casting aforting shadow nearby. Its sturdy presence provided sce amidst the unknown. But that wasn''t what left me awestruck. As I stood there, my heart pounding in my chest, I couldn''t believe my eyes. Thendscape before me was unlike anything I''d ever seen. It felt as though I''d been transported to another world entirely. The air held a hint of unfamiliarity and adventure. A gentle breeze tousled my hair, carrying the scent of wildflowers and anticipation. I gazed at the breathtaking beauty of this exotd. Rolling hills stretched in every direction, their vibrant green blending seamlessly with the deep blue sky. The sun, a radiant orb of golden light, illuminated thendscape, casting long, ethereal shadows that danced upon the grassy ins below. It was a scene of natural wonder, It resembled a scene from a fantastical painting, an unspoiled paradise. "It''s... beautiful," I said, genuinely touched by the vastness and wonder of this new world. However, my joy was short-lived. "It''s beautiful, but... I don''t have time for this." My mind remained focused on my predicament. ''First, I''m stranded. Second, this new world is full of dangers, so survival is going to be a struggle.'' The Seraph had mentioned that the Ground Floor was rtively safer,pared to the Upper Floors, but she also mentioned how it would be helpful to our growth. ''That means there are still challenges to be found here!'' Of course, this wasn''t necessarily a bad thing. I needed those challenges to Level Up and grow stronger. ''The problem is... I have no information about this ce. I sighed, contemting my situation further. "And the other problem is the strange girl I met earlier. She might know about my abilities, so I have to be careful." While she didn''t seem hostile, caution was necessary in uncertain circumstances. I had no idea what her intentions were, so it was smarter to expect the worst. ~DING~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Congrattions! You''re among the select few who have made it this far. In addition to your regr 500 Currency monthly allowance, you will receive an extra 300 Currency for securing Rank 6 in the final Leaderboard Rankings.} ~Make sure to use at your convenience, so as to obtain items and abilities that will aid you on your journey~ [GOOD LUCK!] So I shot up from Rank 9 to Rank 6 in the final moments. If I had to guess, I would say the three who were ahead of me either didn''t participate in the Special Event, or they died there. ''Either way, it''s clear that those at the top get special privileges, but it''s just as easy to slip back down. The Title I obtained must have had something to do with that. "More Currency, huh? That''s a relief. I should be able to get a couple of things I''ll need going forward." ''Now that I think about it, all those drugs I left behind in the original world were a waste, weren''t they?'' Despite my efforts, they didn''t make much of a difference in the end. I had stockpiled them, believing they mighte in handy in desperate situations. However, in this fantasy-like world, it had be clear that they probably wouldn''t help much with the dangers I would face. The challenges of this new realm were beyond anything I could have imagined, and it was bing increasingly evident that my previous life''s preparations might not hold the same significance here. I should have realized that sooner. It looks like that n was a bust. More importantly, I now had 2,950 Currency. My first priorities were securing food, shelter, and information. The tree here, though majestic, didn''t provide food, but I knew I could hunt something nearby. The rustling of leaves and distant sounds of wildlife hinted at the presence of potential prey. There was also a clear stream that didn''t seem too far away, its glistening waters promising a fresh supply of hydration. The tree itself already provided a nice shade, shielding me from the sun''s relentless rays. I nned to make the most of my resources, opting to use my newly acquired camouge nket for protection. It was a calcted choice, a way to save costs and ensure that my Currency would stretch as far as possible. As for information, I''ll have to buy it from the . It seems I''ll have to spend my Currency after all. There''s no other choice. Let''s do what it takes to survive, Mikey. That''s the goal, after all. ********** [00 Months: 00 Days: 03 Hours] "Status Window." - Name: Mikey Rael - Race: Human - Level: 20 - Life Force: 5/5 - Energy Level: 8/8 (+2) - Combat Ability: 8/8 (+3), (+15), (+5) - Stat Points: 35 - Currency: 2,500 - Role: - Authority: - Titles: , , , , - Skills (Exclusive): , , - Skills (Non-Exclusive): , , , - Items Equipped: , , , , - Alignment: Neutral [Additional Information] You can see the future and past by living it. It is a coveted power worthy of desire, but a scary one to possess. "Ha... things aren''t looking so bad now." A smile crept onto my face as I gazed at my Status Window. I finally explored the functions of my and Titles, and they were just as I expected. granted me additional privileges within the System and rewarded me ordingly. , on the other hand, was merely a badge of honor, much like the Title. It signified that I had sessfully navigated the Tutorial and was now eligible for the Tower. I suspected everyone had it. allowed me toprehend the words of any intelligent being andmunicate fluently with them. This would undoubtedlye in handy if I encountered a native, so it wasn''t just for show. Nheless, I assumed everyone possessed this ability as well. ''Out of the Currency I had, I''ve spent 450 on necessities.'' First, I acquired a camouge nket that blended seamlessly with the shrubbery beneath me. Its earthy tones and natural patterns would help me blend into the surroundings, ensuring that even while sleeping, no one would easily spot my presence unless they ventured dangerously close. Although I couldn''t detect anyone nearby, I couldn''t afford to take chances in this unfamiliar world. The nket was reasonably priced, a small but necessary investment in my survival. The other piece of information I acquired pertained to locations referred to as ''Dungeons'' in this 22:35 world. Yet, what consumed most of my Currency was the information I had purchased. ''It cost a whole 400 Currency just for two pieces of information.'' I shook my head and sighed. The first piece of information I acquired concerned my current location. I learned that I was presently in the Lyma Region in the East, a vast expanse known as the Wild Lands. For a mere 100 Currency, I gained valuable knowledge about the region''s topography, including details about local edible nts, the location of the water supply, ideal hunting grounds for food, and the overally of thend. I would say 100 Currency was a reasonable price to pay for such valuable information. As I settled into my makeshift shelter, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of cautious optimism. ''The information also mentioned that this area harbors a few monsters, so I need to be cautious¡­'' The other piece of information I acquired pertained to locations referred to as ''Dungeons'' in this world. It came at a steep cost of 300 Currency, leading me to believe that the potential gains would be substantial. ording to the details, Dungeons were hidden sites where a high concentration of energy gathered, giving rise to Demons, which were essentially this world''s version of monsters. ''There are numerous Dungeons in this area, but without information pinpointing their locations and providing in-depth descriptions of their contents, I''d probably have spent a long time trying to locate them.'' The information about the Lyma Region mentioned the existence of Dungeons, but itcked specifics. Although the price for the Dungeon Information seemed quite high, it was undoubtedly valuable to me. * * * [A/N] Please support this novel with your lovingments, Power Stones, Golden Tickets, and if possible... some Gifts. Some readers (Rimuru_Tempest, Novelreader, RighteousFilth, Timvic, 1st_Manga_KING, and Iam_Not_famous) have given Gifts, and I truly appreciate them. It truly does help my novel reach out to more readers thanks to the Webnovel Algorithm. Thanks for your constant support! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Thanks for reading. Cheers! Chapter 44 Settling In [Pt 2] 44 Settling In [Pt 2] [00 Months: 00 Days: 03 Hours] ''There are five nearby dungeons in my vicinity, each with its unique features and terrain.'' The information I had provided some insight, but not enough details. I didn''t have a clear n for any of them, but it was better than going in blindly. Finally, I decided to use my leftover change on Lucky Draw. Normally, I''d steer clear of gambling, but a certain idea crossed my mind that convinced me to give it a shot. What if I could use to glimpse the future and then choose an item based on that foresight? It was a risky gamble, but my desperation had reached its peak. Unfortunately, things didn''t go ording to n... As it turned out, could only show me a future where I didn''t interfere. It made sense, considering I''d only used the skill to predict the moves of Demons in battle, not how they''d react to my actions. When I used on the ''Lucky Draw,'' it was futile; it just disyed the ''Lucky Draw'' waiting for my input, not revealing any specific item. It seemed I couldn''t use it as a cheat skill in this situation. Nheless, I decided to try my luck with the change I had left. My heart pounded as I watched the digital wheel spin, each passing second feeling like an eternity. And then, against all odds, the wheel stopped, and I had won something. Surprisingly, it wasn''t a rock! [Item Information] Name: Spatial Pouch (Mid) Special Effect: Can Store Items within (with limits), and also reduces their weight drastically (though notpletely) Combat Ability: None Energy Level: None Durability: Very Sturdy [End Of Information] "I can''t believe it! I actually got it!" I eximed, unable to contain my excitement. It seemed I was on a streak of good luck, and it had taken only about two dozen tries, but I had finally gotten it. ''My very own portable inventory!'' I marveled at the small pouch in my hands. It could easily attach to my belt or fit in my pocket, looking quite ordinary on the surface. Yet, I could sense its potential. "It doesn''t mention any weight or size limits," I mused aloud, examining the pouch closely, "but I''ll have to figure that out myself." ''Since the Item is and not , it must be pretty good.'' One additional thing I learned about Dungeons in the information was the ranking of Items and Treasure Chests. For Items, there was the; Lowest Low Mid High Higher Peak For Treasure Chests, they were ssified as; Common Rare Epic Mythic Legendary Transcendent So far, I hadn''t obtained anything higher than ''Mid'' or ''Epic,'' but that was perfectly fine. Considering I had just begun my journey, this much was already remarkable. ''It seems like all my preparations are already in ce.'' Rising to my feet, I absorbed the breathtaking scene unfolding before me once more. A confident and eager smile adorned my face. Dungeons and demons could wait for now. What mattered most at this moment was securing food and water. That meant heading to the river downstream and then making my way to the hunting grounds. ''Alright! Let''s get this done!'' ************ [00 Months: 00 Days: 12 Hours] "Haaa... I''m fucked." I grumbled, feeling the weight of my inexperience pressing down on me. After spending the entire day hunting, I came to two crucial realizations. Firstly, it became apparent that I wasn''t particrly cut out for outdoor life. I had managed to take down some wild deer that were grazing nearby. They didn''t seem much different from the ones I had seen in documentaries, and killing them with an Energy Stone was fairly straightforward. However, the real challenge was what came next. ''How do I cook it? Do I cut it open? Do I even have a knife? Oh no... how long will this meatst? Should I smoke it? But won''t a fire''s smoke attract attention? And won''t the scent of roasting meat draw monsters to my location? How do I even start a fire?'' These were the questions that flooded my mind as soon as I made my first kill. I''ve never been much of an outdoorsy person. Even in the Tutorial, I mostly ate snacks and such. Icked the knowledge to cook, let alone prepare, and roast deer meat. I was aplete novice in this field. ''I''ll need to gather wood, acquire a knife, maybe even a lighter, take my time to butcher the meat properly, cook it thoroughly, and then relocate to avoid attracting enemies.'' As I contemted all these factors, the second realization hit me. ''Using Currency to buy food is a much better option!" I concluded. A decent meal costs around 1 Currency, and if I managed it wisely, it could sustain me for a day. Why should I go through all the effort and risk of preparing my own meals when I could simply rely on Currency?'' It was a practical solution that would allow me to conserve energy and focus on other aspects of survival in this unforgiving world. ''I see now. This is why Currency is important.'' I mused, my focus shifting from the immediate concerns of survival to the bigger picture. Instead of worrying over securing food and water, my utmost priority was finding ways to grow stronger and survive in this unfamiliar world. With that in mind, I used my Spatial Pouch to gather as much water as possible, ensuring I wouldn''t face dehydration. A quick visit to the allowed me to purchase a meal for a mere 1 Currency, quelling the growling hunger in my stomach. After satisfying my hunger and thirst and reflecting on the day''s events, it was already quitete. ''I should sleep. I''ll wake up tomorrow and begin my adventures properly.'' Having wasted my first day on unproductive tasks, I needed to use my time more efficiently moving forward. ''Next time, for sure!'' I promised myself. And so, with those thoughts echoing in my mind, I finally fell asleeppletely covered by a very warm and insted nket. It felt sofortable, as it wrapped me up very gently, and I felt myself venturing deep into ecstasy. [SYSTEM WARNING] ''... Wha...?'' I sensed an alert buzzing in my head, but before I couldprehend what was happening, it was already toote. [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: ; your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] * * * [A/N] How did Mikey die? And who was responsible? Find out in the next chapter! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Chapter 45 Night Chase 45 Night Chase [You Have Died] {Based On Exclusive Skill: ; your recent experiences have been dissolved into a dream} [You Will Now Wake Up] ... And just like that, I died. ********* [00 Months: 00 Days: 00 Hours] "What...?" I blinked and found myself back on the same hill as before, experiencing that familiar sensation from when I first arrived in this strange new world. The air carried an otherworldly scent, a blend of flora and the unknown. ''I... I died.'' Gradually, my memories returned, and oddly enough, I took it all in stride. It felt strangely natural, as expected. ''But... how did I die?'' I recalled drifting into sleep, then the System mentioned something about a Demon. Before I could react, I was already dead. Myst moments were a haze of confusion, shock, and surprise. ''My Life Force was so low; it''s not surprising it happened instantly since I wasn''t prepared.'' ''But where did this Demone from? How could it catch me so off guard and finish the job before I could even react?'' ''The worst part is, I was asleep, so I can''t pinpoint when it happened.'' My musings led me to a frustrating dead end, After thinking for a while, I decided to stop dwelling on the mystery. Based on my past experiences, I knew I''d get nowhere by obsessing over it. ~DING~ [SYSTEM NOTIFICATION] {Congrattions! You''re among the select few who have made it this far. In addition to your regr 500 Currency monthly allowance, you will receive an extra 300 Currency for securing Rank 6 in the final Leaderboard Rankings.} ~Make sure to use at your convenience, so as to obtain items and abilities that will aid you on your journey~ [GOOD LUCK!] ''Oh crap! I forgot!'' Everything had been reset, including my spending and resources. Currently, I have 2,950 Currency. ''Well, at least something good came from my death,'' I chuckled, finding a silver lining in the otherwise grim situation. Unfortunately, this also meant I no longer had my Spatial Pouch. ''I can''t even remember the exact time I got it from the Lucky Draw,'' I mused, a tinge of frustration in my voice. Without a functioning watch, I had to rely on the timer in the corner of my vision, which showed the month, day, and hour, but no mention of minutes or seconds. ''So, I can''t urately tell the time yet,'' I sighed. At least not until I got what I needed. ''With my Currency reset, I can buy some things from the Shop.'' I began to formte a n, a list of essentials to rebuild my arsenal. I had five items in mind. First, a functioning watch for this world was essential because my powers depended on knowing the exact time. It was the glue that held my abilities together. Second, a nket, just like before. Thefort it offered was invaluable in the wilderness, a small piece of normalcy amidst the chaos. Food was a must, and I could always get water from the stream. The fourth item on my list was a map,pass, or navigation device as I nned to explore the Lyma Region''s Wild Lands today. This world was vast and ever-changing, and I couldn''t rely solely on my memory. The final item would help me uncover the culprit responsible for my death, the mysterious Demon that had cut my previous life short. ''Alright, let''s get started!'' ********* [00 Months: 00 Days: 15 Hours] "Phew, I''m so tired." I slumped onto the ground, leaning my back against the sturdy tree that had be mypanion on this hill. With a soft smile, I gazed up at the night sky. When I first arrived in this world, it had been daytime. Now, 15 hourster, I marveled at the beauty of the night sky, adorned with stars and three moons that bathed it in soft, silver light. The beauty of the environment felt surreal. "Honestly..." A warm smile spread across my face as I felt my body rx. I had managed to buy a ''Navigator'' item to assist with my travels, as well as everything else I needed for a good night''s rest. Wrapped snugly in my warm nket, I took onest look at the night sky and then closed my eyes. Whether it was exhaustion or simply the call of nature, I fell asleep quickly. ... And then... [SYSTEM WARNING] ''... Hmm?'' ~WHAM!~ A sudden impact echoed, jerking me from my sleep, and I quickly opened my eyes to see what had happened. It appeared that the enemy had finally taken action, and I had a chance to confront it. "W-what? Is this...?" My eyes widened as I beheld the astonishing sight before me. What I saw was beyond my wildest expectations. The forest, once serene, had transformed into a nightmarish battleground. What I witnessed defied my expectations. ''N-no way...'' "GRRRRRRRRRR...." The Demon that had ended my life, the very one I had been actively pursuing... It turned out to be the tree itself! Its bark-like skin stretched and twisted, forming grotesque, gnarled features reminiscent of a twisted oak tree. Enormous roots extended from its feet, entwining with the forest floor, firmly anchoring it in ce. The earth quivered under its immense presence as it emitted a guttural, otherworldly growl that sent shivers down my spine. Its limbs, thick and gnarled, branched out like ancient boughs, covered in moss and adorned with clusters of vibrant, swaying leaves. Each leaf appeared to possess a life of its own, rustling softly as if sharing secrets with the wind. Its eyes, mesmerizing and radiant, glowed with an otherworldly green light, filled with nothing but malevolence. Vines dangled from its elongated fingers, moving with eerie grace, poised to ensnare any unsuspecting prey. "GRRAAAAUGGGHHH!!!" The terrible roar of the tree monster sent me flying backward a little, though I controlled myself so as not to lose my footing on the hill. ''Oh boy, I wasn''t expecting this!'' I had purchased a one-time-use protective bracelet, which would generate a barrier if it sensed an attack. However, its effect had already expired, so if those enormous branches struck me again, the consequences would be dire. I was going to die very badly. There was only one thing I could do now. ''Run!'' ~WHOOSHH~ Instantly using , I darted away from the rooted monstrosity, putting a substantial distance between us beforeunching my Energy Rock at it, giving it all the power I could muster. The crackling energy surged toward the tree demon, striking it with a brilliant explosion of light and force. ~WHAM!~ ~BAM!~ ''It''s a big target, and since it''s still a tree monster, it should be quite slow.'' Compared to my projectile, which moved at breakneck speed, the monster didn''t stand a chance. ''The best part is that it is restricted in movement!'' I could maintain my distance and keep hitting it while it helplessly iled its branches around in a futile attempt to reach me. ''All in all, the one with the advantage is m¡ª'' ~BOOOOOMMMM!!!~ In a surprising twist, the tree monster leaped from its position on the hill, instantly detaching itself from the earth. "What?!" It lunged toward me, its eyes gleaming with malevolence as it growled in its unintelligible monsternguage. ''Fuck! Why did I have to jinx it?'' I activated again, using the effects of my Invisibility Cloak to hide myself from the tree monster''s view. I ran, creating more distance between us, and changed my direction to try and confuse it. Unfortunately... "GROAAAGHHH!!!" ... It was onto me like crazy! ''Shit! Could it have some kind of Skill that lets it sense my movements?'' After all, it was still a tree. The ground shook as the Tree Demon pursued me with its root-like legs, swiping its branches at me while groaning in pain with every strike my Energy Rocknded. ''It''s faster than it looks!'' I thought, watching how it managed to keep up somewhat despite my use of . It wasn''t unbelievably fast, though, and it wasn''t gaining ground on me either. Besides, the System didn''t ssify it as a , so I felt like I could handle it. It likely had more durability than anything else, so I didn''t think I was in serious trouble with this creature. ''I just had to hold out for a little longer!'' ***** [A Little Longer Later...] "What in the world? It''s still chasing me? How?" My thoughts echoed loudly as I gasped for breath, my energy waning. Despite taking damage, it continued its relentless pursuit. ''Why won''t it just die?'' I wondered, frustrated by the incredible vitality of this Demon. Perhaps it had some sort of Skill that allowed it to heal from injuries? ''Maybe it''s healing faster than I can damage it?'' That would make it very dangerous... My suspicion was that, while I was indeed hurting it, a portion of its health was still being restored. It was a tricky situation, but if that were the case, there was only one solution. ''I just have to damage it faster!'' "Let''s go!" I pushed my body using and activated , altering my course and roaring with determination as I charged toward the monster. "While rapidly firing Energy Rock..." I clenched my teeth and balled my fist in unwavering resolve. "...I''ll hit you with everything I''ve got!" * * * [A/N] Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers Chapter 46 Demon Drops 46 Demon Drops [00 Months: 00 Days: 18 Hours] ~BOOOMM!!~ My fist struck the Tree Demon hard, making it recoil and stop its advance towards me. But it wasn''t done yet. It sent its vines my way, trying to trap me or drain my Life Force. ''Not gonna happen, buddy!'' In the end, I was still faster. ~WHOOSH!~ I dodged the creature''s vines, swiftly maneuvering through its attacks. Then, I clenched my fist and struck it again. ~BAM!~ At the same time, my Energy Rock had built enough momentum, and also struck the Tree Demon on its face, sending it crashing down. The resounding impact echoed through the forest, a testament to my unrelenting determination. I didn''t have enough time to celebrate, though, as the Tree used its vines to tie my legs to the ground, keeping me stuck in one ce. My tion turned to a feeling of urgency as I realized the battle was far from over. The Tree Demon, despite the powerful blow it had suffered, was not ready to surrender, and I had to summon every ounce of my strength and wit to break free from its ensnaring grasp. Then itunched a massive wooden spike at me at incredible speed. I couldn''t escape. It was too quick, too sudden. It meant certain death... ... At least, that was what showed me. "Hup!" I swiftly moved from my spot, avoiding the Tree Demon''s constraints. I sent my Energy Rock to inflict more damage as I weaved through its wooden projectiles, easily predicting their path with . Since the Invisibility Cloak was useless here, I stopped using it. My main focus was to end this fight quickly. ''I''m getting close to my limit already,'' I thought anxiously. ~FWUUSHH~ I skillfully closed the gap between the monster tree and me, clenching both fists and channeling the full power of through my veins. And then... "Ora ora ora ora!!!" I unleashed a flurry of punches onto the fallen creature. I kept it stunned, making sure every blow carried all my strength. Each punch I delivered was fueled by a burning determination, a fierce desire to ovee this formidable adversary. With every strike, I chipped away at the Tree Demon''s resilience, determined to bring an end to this dangerous encounter. "ORAAAAAAAA!!!" My Energy Rock continued pounding the monster''s head, creating an overwhelming onught. ''Come on, just give up already,'' I thought as my relentless barrage crushed its wooden body and shattered its hard bark. My knuckles throbbed with pain, and my stamina was running low. and had just worn off, and I had no energy left for . It was now or never. All or nothing! ''So, help me out here...'' I thought, shing a sympathetic smile at the Tree Demon. ''... Die for my sake!'' sping both my hands together, with my Energy Rock descending at full force, I unleashed my ultimate attack on the Tree Demon. ~BOOOOOMMM!!!~ The ground trembled as the impact reverberated through the forest My body gave in to exhaustion, and I tumbled off the Demon, utterly drained. ''If this doesn''t work, then... haaa...'' I felt everything go nk, with only pain coursing through my aching muscles and throbbing bones. Everything was slowly slipping away... ~DING!~ ''For real? Seriously?!'' My eyes popped open, and instantly I was back among the living. "Haa... haaa... I won? I won!" Heck yeah! I always knew I could do it. After all the running and hitting, I had toe out on top. Withbored breaths, I observed the monster''s body slowly fading. ''But this thing is really tough. Was it not a dangerous Demon, or does "dangerous" mean something different in this new world?'' Even with all the Skills I had, I barely clinched victory. If this was just a regr Demon, I shuddered to think about the more formidable ones. ''I don''t even want to imagine that right now...'' The good news, though, was that I had reached Level 21, and that meant... I was a little stronger now. ****** [00 Months: 00 Days: 19 Hours] "Hmm... this is quite surprising," I murmured to myself, my gaze fixed on two items in front of me. One resembled a piece of wood shaped like an almond fruit¡ªor more urately, its seed. The second item looked like a wooden vial. It had the shape of a potion, but it was entirely crafted from wood, not the usual transparent ss. ''I may not know much about games and stuff, but I at least know this much.'' The had plenty of potions, and I had purchased an Invisible Potion during the Tutorials, so I had some idea of how they should look. I also recalled seeing them frequently in my dreams, now that I thought about it. However, my recollections were hazy, and they didn''t provide any clear advantages. ''I''ve been remembering a couple of things in my dreams recently. It''s like being here slowly reminds me more of them...'' ''I''ve been remembering a few things in my dreamstely. It''s like being here slowly reminds me of more...'' But it was all too vague to remember anything concrete or useful. I pushed aside these distracting thoughts and refocused on the items before me. ''So, the Demon had Drops. That''s great. Let''s check them out.'' [Item Information] Name: Demon Tree Sap Special Effect: Grants temporary sturdiness and vitality upon consumption. {Note: Lasts for five minutes} Combat Ability: Vitality Specific Energy Level: None Durability: One-time-Use [End Of Information] ''This will definitelye in handy!'' I grinned. If I ever encountered a situation where I couldn''t escape, and victory was necessary, I could just use this. "What about the second one?" [Item Information] Name: Demon Tree Essence Special Effect: The Essence of the defeated Demon Tree, and a catalyst for its revival. Can also be fused with other items. Combat Ability: None Energy Level: None Durability: Sturdy [End Of Information] Upon seeing this, my eyes widened as I realized something crucial that had slipped my mind amidst all the survival and chaos. My newly acquired Skill! "This is perfect! It''s finally time to use it." I wore a bright smile as I opened my Status Window, my attention now solely fixed on one particr Skill. "I finally get to try out ." * * * [A/N] I wonder what will happen next. Will the MC seed in obtaining a loyal Demon? Will it be a cute and hot Tree Lady, or will it be the same ugly monster he fought? Find out in the next chapter! Join My Discord if you''re interested in seeing Character Arts, and also for interactions with me and other readers The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!